I too, am America: a review of research on systemic lupus erythematosus in African-Americans

Contributions of Synthetic Chemicals to Autoimmune Disease Development and Occurrence

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Exposure to many synthetic chemicals has been linked to a variety of adverse human health effects, including autoimmune diseases. In this scoping review, we summarize recent evidence detailing the effects of synthetic environmental chemicals on autoimmune diseases and highlight current research gaps and recommendations for future studies.

RECENT FINDINGS

We identified 68 recent publications related to environmental chemical exposures and autoimmune diseases. Most studies evaluated exposure to persistent environmental chemicals and autoimmune conditions including rheumatoid arthritis (RA), systemic lupus (SLE), systemic sclerosis (SSc), and ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease. Results of recent original research studies were mixed, and available data for some exposure-outcome associations were particularly limited. PFAS and autoimmune inflammatory bowel diseases (UC and CD) and pesticides and RA appeared to be the most frequently studied exposure-outcome associations among recent publications, despite a historical research focus on solvents. Recent studies have provided additional evidence for the associations of exposure to synthetic chemicals with certain autoimmune conditions. However, impacts on other autoimmune outcomes, particularly less prevalent conditions, remain unclear. Owing to the ubiquitous nature of many of these exposures and their potential impacts on autoimmune risk, additional studies are needed to better evaluate these relationships, particularly for understudied autoimmune conditions. Future research should include larger longitudinal studies and studies among more diverse populations to elucidate the temporal relationships between exposure-outcome pairs and to identify potential population subgroups that may be more adversely impacted by immune modulation caused by exposure to these chemicals.

Clinical and immunological features in ACKR1/DARC-associated neutropenia

ABSTRACT

ACKR1/DARC-associated neutropenia (NP; ADAN; Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man 611862), caused by a variation in the ACKR1/DARC gene (rs2814778), is common in persons of African or Middle Eastern descent. In a cohort of 66 genetically confirmed subjects with ADAN, we show that absolute neutrophil counts (ANCs) may occasionally be lower than previously recognized (0.1 × 109-0.49 × 109/L for 9% of the subjects), which is similar to ANCs in severe congenital NP (SCNP). ANCs often normalized during inflammation, even mild. Individuals with ADAN (of 327 observed person-years) showed no cases of myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), which is frequently encountered in SCNP. Unexpectedly, 22% presented with autoantibodies to neutrophils, compared with <1% in controls. Compared with healthy donors, subjects with ADAN demonstrated significantly lower human cationic antimicrobial protein-18/pro-leucin leucin-37 plasma levels; higher levels of nonclassical, proinflammatory, 6-sulfo LacNac-expressing monocytes; and differentially expressed plasma levels of 28 of the 239 analyzed cytokines related to immunity/inflammation, cell signaling, neutrophil activation, and angiogenesis. Collectively, more severe neutropenia in ADAN than previously assumed may complicate differential diagnoses compared with other SCNPs, and various (auto)immune/inflammatory reactions with a distinct profile may be a cause or consequence of this hereditary neutropenia.

Epidemiology and outcomes of emergency department visits in systemic lupus erythematosus: Insights from the nationwide emergency department sample (NEDS)

BACKGROUND

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients are prone to frequent emergency department (ED) visits. This study explores the epidemiology and outcomes of ED visits by patients with SLE utilizing the Nationwide Emergency Department Sample (NEDS).

METHODS

Using NEDS (2019), SLE ED visits identified using ICD-10 codes (M32. xx) were compared with non-SLE ED visits in terms of demographic and clinical features and primary diagnoses associated with the ED visits. Factors associated with inpatient admission were analyzed using logistic regression. Variations in ED visits by age and race were assessed.

RESULTS

We identified 414,139 (0.35%) ED visits for adults ≥ 18 years with SLE. ED visits with SLE comprised more women, Black patients, ages 31-50 years, Medicare as the primary payer, and had higher comorbidity burden. A greater proportion of Black and Hispanic SLE patients who visited the ED were in the youngest age category of 18-30 years (around 20%) compared to White patients (less than 10%). Non-White patients had higher Medicaid utilization (27%-32% vs 19% in White patients). Comorbidity patterns varied based on race, with more White patients having higher rates of hyperlipidemia and ischemic heart disease (IHD) and more Black patients having chronic kidney disease (CKD), hypertension, and heart failure. Categorizing by race, SLE/connective tissue disease (CTD) and infection were the most prevalent primary ED diagnosis in non-White and White patients, respectively. Age ≥ 65 years, male sex, and comorbidities were linked to a higher risk of admission. Black race (OR 0.86, p = .01) and lowest income quartile (OR 0.78, p = .003) had lower odds of inpatient admission.

CONCLUSION

Infection and SLE/CTD were among the top diagnoses associated with ED visits and inpatient admission. Despite comprising a significant proportion of SLE ED visits, Black patients had lower odds of admission. While the higher prevalence of older age groups, hyperlipidemia, and IHD among White patients may partly explain the disparate results, and further study is needed to understand the role of other factors including reliance on the ED for routine care compared among Black patients, differences in insurance coverage, and potential socioeconomic biases among healthcare providers.

Baseline immune states (BIS) associated with vaccine responsiveness and factors that shape the BIS

Vaccines are among the greatest inventions in medicine, leading to the elimination or control of numerous diseases, including smallpox, polio, measles, rubella, and, most recently, COVID-19. Yet, the effectiveness of vaccines varies among individuals. In fact, while some recipients mount a robust response to vaccination that protects them from the disease, others fail to respond. Multiple clinical and epidemiological factors contribute to this heterogeneity in responsiveness. Systems immunology studies fueled by advances in single-cell biology have been instrumental in uncovering pre-vaccination immune cell types and genomic features (i.e., the baseline immune state, BIS) that have been associated with vaccine responsiveness. Here, we review clinical factors that shape the BIS, and the characteristics of the BIS associated with responsiveness to frequently studied vaccines (i.e., influenza, COVID-19, bacterial pneumonia, malaria). Finally, we discuss potential strategies to enhance vaccine responsiveness in high-risk groups, focusing specifically on older adults.

Understanding humoral immunity and multiple sclerosis severity in Black, and Latinx patients

People identified with Black/African American or Hispanic/Latinx ethnicity are more likely to exhibit a more severe multiple sclerosis disease course relative to those who identify as White. While social determinants of health account for some of this discordant severity, investigation into contributing immunobiology remains sparse. The limited immunologic data stands in stark contrast to the volume of clinical studies describing ethnicity-associated discordant presentation, and to advancement made in our understanding of MS immunopathogenesis over the past several decades. In this perspective, we posit that humoral immune responses offer a promising avenue to better understand underpinnings of discordant MS severity among Black/African American, and Hispanic/Latinx-identifying patients.

Analysis of Cutaneous Lupus Hospitalizations: A United States National Population-Based Study

Background There are limited studies analyzing cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) hospitalizations. In this study, we aimed to analyze baseline demographics of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and CLE patients, identify the most common reasons for hospitalizations, and find out the hospitalization outcomes.  Materials and methods We performed the analysis using the National (Nationwide) Inpatient Sample (NIS) database between 2016 and 2019. For the CLE cohort, data for adults aged 18 years and older with the primary or secondary diagnosis of CLE using International Classification of Disease - 10th revision (ICD-10) codes were extracted. For comparison, the SLE cohort was identified by patients aged 18 years and older with primary or secondary diagnoses of SLE using ICD-10 codes. Chi-squared test was used to compare baseline demographic characteristics. Multivariable logistic and linear regression was used to calculate outcomes of interest. Results In comparison to the SLE cohort, the CLE cohort was not only older in age and lower percentage female, but also had shorter length of stay, less total hospital charge, and the majority had Medicare as primary insurance. The SLE cohort included predominantly African American patients while the CLE cohort was majority Caucasian patients. The cardiovascular risks were more prevalent in the CLE cohort and most commonly admitted for sepsis, cardiovascular disease, and mental health disorders. Conclusion Our study highlights the importance of outpatient follow-up in CLE patients to closely monitor cardiovascular risk factors, early identification of infections, and routine mental health screenings to reduce hospitalizations and resource utilization.

BAFF and APRIL counterregulate susceptibility to inflammation-induced preterm birth

Clinical evidence points to a function for B cell-activating factor (BAFF) in pregnancy. However, direct roles for BAFF-axis members in pregnancy have not been examined. Here, via utility of genetically modified mice, we report that BAFF promotes inflammatory responsiveness and increases susceptibility to inflammation-induced preterm birth (PTB). In contrast, we show that the closely related A proliferation-inducing ligand (APRIL) decreases inflammatory responsiveness and susceptibility to PTB. Known BAFF-axis receptors serve a redundant function in signaling BAFF/APRIL presence in pregnancy. Treatment with anti-BAFF/APRIL monoclonal antibodies or BAFF/APRIL recombinant proteins is sufficient to manipulate susceptibility to PTB. Notably, macrophages at the maternal-fetal interface produce BAFF, while BAFF and APRIL presence divergently shape macrophage gene expression and inflammatory function. Overall, our findings demonstrate that BAFF and APRIL play divergent inflammatory roles in pregnancy and provide therapeutic targets for mitigating risk of inflammation-induced PTB.

Involvement of the secosteroid vitamin D in autoimmune rheumatic diseases and COVID-19

Evidence supporting the extra-skeletal role of vitamin D in modulating immune responses is centred on the effects of its final metabolite, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D₃ (1,25(OH)₂D₃, also known as calcitriol), which is regarded as a true steroid hormone. 1,25(OH)₂D₃, the active form of vitamin D, can modulate the innate immune system in response to invading pathogens, downregulate inflammatory responses and support the adaptive arm of the immune system. Serum concentrations of its inactive precursor 25-hydroxyvitamin D₃ (25(OH)D₃, also known as calcidiol) fluctuate seasonally (being lowest in winter) and correlate negatively with the activation of the immune system as well as with the incidence and severity of autoimmune rheumatic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus and systemic sclerosis. Thus, a low serum concentration of 25(OH)D₃ is considered to be a risk factor for autoimmune rheumatic diseases and vitamin D₃ supplementation seems to improve the prognosis; moreover, long-term vitamin D₃ supplementation seems to reduce their incidence (i.e. rheumatoid arthritis). In the setting of COVID-19, 1,25(OH)₂D₃ seems to downregulate the early viral phase (SARS-CoV-2 infection), by enhancing innate antiviral effector mechanisms, as well as the later cytokine-mediated hyperinflammatory phase. This Review provides an update of the latest scientific and clinical evidence concerning vitamin D and immune response in autoimmune rheumatic diseases and COVID-19, which justify the need for monitoring of serum 25(OH)D₃ concentrations and for appropriate supplementation following clinical trial-based approaches.

Formative research to promote lupus awareness and early screening at Historically Black College and University (HBCU) communities in South Carolina

BACKGROUND

Systemic lupus erythematosus or lupus is a severe chronic autoimmune disorder that disproportionately impacts young African Americans. Increasing lupus awareness in this high-risk group may be an effective approach to ultimately improving lupus outcomes. To begin to address this disparity, this report describes qualitative data to be utilized in the development of a campaign to enhance awareness of lupus on Historically Black Colleges and University (HBCU) campuses.

METHODS

Two focus groups (N = 14) were held with African American students in the network of HBCU's in South Carolina to examine perspectives of focus group participants on knowledge, awareness, and experiences with lupus.

RESULTS

Five key emergent themes included: (1) Lupus Knowledge and Awareness, (2) Barriers for Not Seeking Healthcare, (3) Fatalism for Disease Burden, (4) Lifestyle Debilitation, and (5) Elevation of Education and Advocacy for Lupus. Additionally, five key recommendations emerged to improve lupus awareness and support, including: (1) remaining positive, (2) developing a supportive network, (3) the importance of increasing advocacy efficacy, and (4) messaging strategies around lupus, and (5) providing education to foster knowledge around the clinical impacts of lupus.

CONCLUSION

Participants in our study stressed the necessity of lupus education and awareness among African American youth and expressed the desire for resources that would enable them to advocate for themselves and their families. Given the early age of onset for lupus, it is therefore vital to include African American youth in increasing education and awareness about lupus.

Approaches to reducing fragmented care in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and other multimorbid conditions: A realist review

Introduction

Fragmented care overwhelmingly affects populations with multimorbid chronic conditions, like systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). However, strategies to mitigate care fragmentation typically focus on singular disease frameworks with insufficient evidence regarding approaches for individuals with two or more concurrent chronic conditions (multimorbidity). This review explores the literature to identify the (C)ontextual influences, underlying (M)echanisms, and associated (O)utcomes of fragmented care prevention in SLE and other multimorbid conditions.

Methods

A realist review was applied to systematically examine literature, including the search of >1300 published articles focused on SLE and multimorbidity, continuity of care, and approaches to mitigate fragmented care. The analysis was guided by care continuity elements and organized by fragmented care concepts explicated by the MacColl Institute for Healthcare Innovations Care Coordination Model and further grouped for context–mechanism–outcome (CMO) configurations.

Results

Fourteen articles met inclusion/exclusion criteria and were included in the sample to illustrate the relationship between C-M-O for approaches focused on fragmented care prevention. Favorable outcomes in mechanisms that produced positive responses to resources relevant to fragmented care prevention included 1) opportunities for exposure and negotiation within professional teams, 2) structured health education, role clarity, and access to adherence services for patients, and 3) awareness of workflow waste and use of clinical algorithms.

Discussion

Review findings suggest using a multidimensional approach to mitigate fragmented care in SLE and other multimorbid conditions. Multidimensional approaches should focus on shared decision-making, social support, social–cultural–economic factors, patient engagement, and technological infrastructure to support the complex care needs of the multimorbid patient.

Lower socioeconomic status worsens outcome of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus independently of access to healthcare

OBJECTIVES

Socioeconomic status (SES) has been found to be associated with worse outcomes of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The impact of national health insurance on SLE outcomes has not been explored.

METHODS

A retrospective inception cohort of patients older than 18 years with SLE diagnosed and followed in lupus clinics of two large tertiary medical centers were included. Patients were stratified into three groups by SES: lower 25th quantile, middle 25th-75th quantile, and upper 75th quantile. Primary outcomes were all-cause mortality, development of end-stage kidney disease (ESKD), and score ≤ 4 on the Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index 2000 (SLEDAI 2K) at the last visit.

RESULTS

We identified 617 patients (548 females, 88.8%) with a median follow-up of 15 years (range, 8.0-23.0). Compared to the middle and upper SES groups, the lower SES group was characterized by younger age at disease onset (31.5 years vs. 34.3 and 37.4 years, respectively, p = 0.011) and higher rate of lupus nephritis (42.7% vs. 35.7% and 23.8%, respectively, p = 0.002). In multivariate models, patients in the middle and upper SES groups had a significantly lower risk of mortality (HR = 0.45; 95% CI, 0.24-0.82, p = 0.010) and ESKD (HR = 0.24; 95% CI, 0.08-0.73, p = 0.012), with no effect on the rate of SLEDAI 2K ≤ 4 (OR = 1.49; 95% CI, 0.92-2.40, p = 0.09).

CONCLUSION

Even within a health system that provides high and equal accessibility to medical care, low SES is associated with worse outcomes of SLE. Policymakers should focus on managing possible barriers that prevent patients of lower SES from obtaining optimal care.

From diagnosis to complications: experiences of those who live with systemic lupus erythematosus

ABSTRACT Objective: To understand how people with lupus experience the diagnosis and how they deal with complications arising from the disease. Method: Qualitative study, whose data were collected between February and July 2019, through semi-structured interviews with 26 individuals and submitted to content analysis. Results: Three categories emerged that show illness from lupus as a difficult experience, permeated by sadness, fear and suffering, which, in addition to being linked to society’s lack of knowledge about the disease, negatively impacts the lives of those who experience it. Furthermore, they show that the time of living with the disease favors the development of self-care strategies and greater therapeutic adherence and, consequently, longer periods of disease remission. Considerations: More disclosure about the disease and its implications in the daily lives of those affected is essential, culminating in greater understanding of family, friends and colleagues and improvements in health care and quality of life for these people.

Deconvoluting the heterogeneity of SLE: The contribution of ancestry

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a multiorgan autoimmune disorder with a prominent genetic component. Evidence has shown that individuals of non-European ancestry experience the disease more severely, exhibiting an increased incidence of cardiovascular disease, renal involvement, and tissue damage compared with European ancestry populations. Furthermore, there seems to be variability in the response of individuals within different ancestral groups to standard medications, including cyclophosphamide, mycophenolate, rituximab, and belimumab. Although the widespread application of candidate gene, Immunochip, and genome-wide association studies has contributed to our understanding of the link between genetic variation (typically single nucleotide polymorphisms) and SLE, despite decades of research it is still unclear why ancestry remains a key determinant of poorer outcome in non-European-ancestry patients with SLE. Here, we will discuss the impact of ancestry on SLE disease burden in patients from diverse backgrounds and highlight how research efforts using novel bioinformatic and pathway-based approaches have begun to disentangle the complex genetic architecture linking ancestry to SLE susceptibility. Finally, we will illustrate how genomic and gene expression analyses can be combined to help identify novel molecular pathways and drug candidates that might uniquely impact SLE among different ancestral populations.

Patient-Reported Outcome Information Collected from Lupus Patients Using a Mobile Application: Compliance and Validation

OBJECTIVE

Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) can provide critical information concerning the impact of a disease on an individual. Mobile technology to collect PRO data in an electronic format (ePRO) allows for frequent assessment in the person's regular environment. The goal of this study was to assess the compliance with a phone application (app) and validate ePRO information in individuals with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

METHODS

A smartphone app that collects ePRO data from various clinical instruments was developed. Information was collected by both an ePRO and a paper-administered instrument as part of a multicenter randomized interventional clinical trial of patients meeting American College of Rheumatology (ACR) criteria for the classification of SLE. To determine agreement between PRO information collected in the different formats, intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs), paired Student's t tests, and Bland-Altman plots were evaluated. Compliance and Cronbach's alpha were also assessed as a measure of survey reliability.

RESULTS

For the 62 subjects from diverse ancestral backgrounds, compliance with ePRO completion was high (more than 75%). Cronbach alpha values for PROs indicated moderate to high survey reliability. The vast majority (73.4%) of ICC values were indicative of good to excellent reliability between measurement methods. Bland-Altman plots verified method agreement, and 87% of pairwise t tests yielded an insignificant difference between information collected with the different administration methods.

CONCLUSION

The excellent compliance and the high level of consistency between data collected by paper and that collected by electronic methods indicate that the app provides a reliable means of cataloging real-time changes in PROs in SLE patients.

The Effect of Travel Burden on Depression and Anxiety in African American Women Living with Systemic Lupus

The United States has a deficit of rheumatology specialists. This leads to an increased burden in accessing care for patients requiring specialized care. Given that most rheumatologists are located in urban centers at large hospitals, many lupus patients must travel long distances for routine appointments. The present work aims to determine whether travel burden is associated with increased levels of depression and anxiety among these patients. Data for this study were collected from baseline visits of patients participating in a lupus study at MUSC. A travel/economic burden survey was assessed as well as the 8-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-8) and the 7-item Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD-7) survey as measures of depression and anxiety, respectively. Linear regression models were used to assess the relationship between travel burden and depression and anxiety. Frequency of healthcare visits was significantly associated with increased depression (β = 1.3, p = 0.02). Significant relationships were identified between anxiety and requiring time off from work for healthcare appointments (β = 4, p = 0.02), and anxiety and perceived difficulty in traveling to primary care providers (β = 3.1, p = 0.04). Results from this study provide evidence that travel burden can have an effect on lupus patients' anxiety and depression levels.

Pathways linking census tract typologies with subjective neighborhood disorder and depressive symptoms in the Black Women's Experiences Living with Lupus (BeWELL) Study

Depression is a common comorbidity among Black women with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), an understudied autoimmune disease characterized by major racial and gender inequities. Research is needed that examines how area-level factors influence risk of depression in this population. Latent profile analysis revealed four neighborhood typologies among metropolitan Atlanta, Georgia census tracts that participants (n=438) in the Black Women's Experiences Living with Lupus (BeWELL) Study were living in: Integrated/High-SES, Moderately Segregated/Mid-SES, Highly Segregated/Mid-SES, and Highly Segregated/Low-SES. Structural equation models indicated that highly segregated census tracts were associated with the greatest levels of depression via increased subjective assessments of neighborhood disorder. Policies that invest in segregated areas and address physical and social aspects of the environment that contribute to neighborhood disorder may promote mental health among Black women with SLE.

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease: An Overview of the Clinical Approach to Pathogenesis, Diagnosis, and Treatment

The systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), commonly known as Lupus, is a rare and complex multisystem autoimmune disease where one’s immune system is overactive, and the body attacks its organ systems. SLE is a historically old disease described already in antiquity; it is an example of a chronic disease with physical, psychological, financial, and social implications for individuals diagnosed. It has inspired medical and basic biological scientists that focus on molecular biology, basic immunology, immunopathology, clinical science, genetics, and epidemiology. The syndrome is real in its existence-although hidden behind obstacles, cumbersome for patients and clinicians, and rebellious for scientists. There is currently no cure for SLE. The goal of treatment is to ease symptoms. This article will review information on the general approach to SLE therapy, focusing on currently approved therapies and novel approaches that might be used in the future.

Feasibility and preliminary data for a State-wide South Carolina Lupus Registry

BACKGROUND

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) or lupus is an autoimmune disorder whose cause and reason for disproportionate impact on minorities remains enigmatic. Furthermore, statistics describing lupus incidence and prevalence are outdated and often based on small samples. To begin to address this disparity this report describes preliminary data to be utilized in the development of a state-wide lupus registry in South Carolina.

METHODS

A prospective survey and retrospective data from the South Carolina Budget and Control Board Office of Research & Statistics were used to capture data pertaining to knowledge of lupus, prevalence, and access to lupus care.

RESULTS

Retrospective ORS data indicated there were 11,690 individuals living with lupus in 2014 with the average direct cost of $69,999.40 in medical care. Prospective surveys (N = 325), in over 16 locations in South Carolina, showed 31% knew someone with lupus, 16% had been diagnosed with lupus, and 50% did not know of a medical facility that treated lupus.

CONCLUSION

A lupus registry and repository will provide ongoing access for researchers on the impact of lupus on communities in South Carolina. Lupus is highly prevalent, but disproportionately represented in terms of patient information and participation in clinical trials, so it is also expected that this preliminary work will provide an ongoing process in which the medical community can better engage lupus patients.

The Main Challenges in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: Where Do We Stand?

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an immune-mediated multi-systemic disease characterized by a wide variability of clinical manifestations and a course frequently subject to unpredictable flares. Despite significant advances in the understanding of the pathophysiology and optimization of medical care, patients with SLE still have significant mortality and carry a risk of progressive organ damage accrual and reduced health-related quality of life. New tools allow earlier classification of SLE, whereas tailored early intervention and treatment strategies targeted to clinical remission or low disease activity could offer the opportunity to reduce damage, thus improving long-term outcomes. Nevertheless, the early diagnosis of SLE is still an unmet need for many patients. Further disentangling the SLE susceptibility and complex pathogenesis will allow to identify more accurate biomarkers and implement new ways to measure disease activity. This could represent a major step forward to find new trials modalities for developing new drugs, optimizing the use of currently available therapeutics and minimizing glucocorticoids. Preventing and treating comorbidities in SLE, improving the management of hard-to-treat manifestations including management of SLE during pregnancy are among the remaining major unmet needs. This review provides insights and a research agenda for the main challenges in SLE.

DUALITY OF LIVING WITH SYSTEMIC LUPUS ERYTHEMATOSUS: FLUCTUATING BETWEEN “GOOD DAYS” AND “BAD DAYS”

ABSTRACT Objective: to learn the perception of individuals with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus about living with the disease. Method: an exploratory and descriptive research study, of a qualitative nature, carried out with 26 individuals undergoing treatment at the rheumatology outpatient clinic of a university hospital in southern Brazil. The data were collected in the period from February to July 2019, by means of semi-structured interviews that were audio-recorded and subjected to the thematic modality of content analysis. Results: a category entitled: “Fluctuating between good and bad days in living with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus”, composed of two subcategories that portray that living with Lupus is something unstable/fickle, emerged from the results. This is because, as a result of the periods of remission and exacerbation of the signs and symptoms of the disease, the patients experience a paradox of constant oscillation between ups and downs. Conclusion: it was learned that individuals with Lupus perceive that living with the disease is marked by an oscillation between good days and bad days, which are related to periods of remission and exacerbation of the manifestations of the disease, respectively.

Factors associated with self-reported capacity to walk, jog and run in individuals with systemic lupus erythematosus

Objectives

This study aims to explore how disease and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) factors are associated with self-reported physical capacity in walking, jogging and running in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

Patients and methods

This cross-sectional study is part of an ongoing cohort research project which started in 2014. A total of 198 patients (21 males, 177 females; mean age 51.5±16.1 years; range, 20 to 82 years) with SLE answered a question concerning physical capacity and the answers were categorized as low (can walk less than 2 km) and high (can jog and run at least 2 km) capacity. Additional measurements of disease activity (Systemic Lupus Activity Measure-Revised, SLAM-R), organ damage (Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics-Damage Index, SLICC-DI), physical activity (International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form, IPAQ-SF), exercise during the past year, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), and HRQOL according to EuroQol five-dimension score and EuroQol visual analog scale (EQ-VAS) were included. The independent variables in the multiple logistic regression analysis were age, body mass index (BMI), disease duration, SLAM-R, SLICC-DI, IPAQ-SF category, sitting hours (IPAQ-SF), and exercise during the past year as well as HADS and EQ-VAS.

Results

Patients that reported low physical capacity (n=120) were older (p<0.001), had longer disease duration (p<0.001), had more organ damage (p<0.001), reported that they were less physically active (p=0.003), exercised less during the past year (p=0.001), reported more pain/discomfort and depressive symptom (p<0.001) and had lower overall HRQOL (p<0.001) and mobility and usual activities than those that reported high capacity (n=78). The regression analysis showed that age (median ≤49 vs >49) (Exp) (B): 4.52 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.05 to 9.98) (p<0.001), disease duration (median ≤17 vs >17) Exp (B): 2.53 (95% CI: 1.15 to 5.60) (p=0.02), SLICC-DI (median <1 vs ≥1) Exp (B): 3.60 (95% CI: 1.48 to 8.73) (p=0.005), and EQ-VAS (median <72 vs ≥72) Exp (B): 4.63 (95% CI: 2.13 to 10.05) (p<0.001) were significant factors associated with physical capacity (Nagelkerke R Squared=0.46).

Conclusion

Patients with low physical capacity were less physically active, exercised less and had more pain and depressive symptoms than those that reported a high capacity. However, only age, disease duration, organ damage and overall HRQOL were indicators of low physical capacity. In order to increase physical capacity in the management of SLE, it is important to address overall HRQOL.

Analysis of Trans-Ancestral SLE Risk Loci Identifies Unique Biologic Networks and Drug Targets in African and European Ancestries

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a multi-organ autoimmune disorder with a prominent genetic component. Individuals of African ancestry (AA) experience the disease more severely and with an increased co-morbidity burden compared to European ancestry (EA) populations. We hypothesize that the disparities in disease prevalence, activity, and response to standard medications between AA and EA populations is partially conferred by genomic influences on biological pathways. To address this, we applied a comprehensive approach to identify all genes predicted from SNP-associated risk loci detected with the Immunochip. By combining genes predicted via eQTL analysis, as well as those predicted from base-pair changes in intergenic enhancer sites, coding-region variants, and SNP-gene proximity, we were able to identify 1,731 potential ancestry-specific and trans-ancestry genetic drivers of SLE. Gene associations were linked to upstream and downstream regulators using connectivity mapping, and predicted biological pathways were mined for candidate drug targets. Examination of trans-ancestral pathways reflect the well-defined role for interferons in SLE and revealed pathways associated with tissue repair and remodeling. EA-dominant genetic drivers were more often associated with innate immune and myeloid cell function pathways, whereas AA-dominant pathways mirror clinical findings in AA subjects, suggesting disease progression is driven by aberrant B cell activity accompanied by ER stress and metabolic dysfunction. Finally, potential ancestry-specific and non-specific drug candidates were identified. The integration of all SLE SNP-predicted genes into functional pathways revealed critical molecular pathways representative of each population, underscoring the influence of ancestry on disease mechanism and also providing key insight for therapeutic selection.

Trends in incidence and epidemiologic characteristics of cerebral venous thrombosis in the United States

OBJECTIVE

To test the hypothesis that race-, age-, and sex-specific incidence of cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) has increased in the United States over the last decade.

METHODS

In this retrospective cohort study, validated ICD codes were used to identify all new cases of CVT (n = 5,567) in the State Inpatients Databases (SIDs) of New York and Florida (2006-2016). A new CVT case was defined as first hospitalization for CVT in the SID without prior CVT hospitalization. CVT counts were combined with annual Census data to compute incidence. Joinpoint regression was used to evaluate trends in incidence over time.

RESULTS

From 2006 to 2016, annual age- and sex-standardized incidence of CVT in cases per 1 million population ranged from 13.9 to 20.2, but incidence varied significantly by sex (women 20.3-26.9, men 6.8-16.8) and by age/sex (women 18-44 years of age 24.0-32.6, men 18-44 years of age 5.3-12.8). Incidence also differed by race (Blacks: 18.6-27.2; Whites: 14.3-18.5; Asians: 5.1-13.8). On joinpoint regression, incidence increased across 2006 to 2016, but most of this increase was driven by an increase in all age groups of men (combined annualized percentage change [APC] 9.2%, p < 0.001), women 45 to 64 years of age (APC 7.8%, p < 0.001), and women ≥65 years of age (APC 7.4%, p < 0.001). Incidence in women 18 to 44 years of age remained unchanged over time.

CONCLUSION

CVT incidence is disproportionately higher in Blacks compared to other races. New CVT hospitalizations increased significantly over the last decade mainly in men and older women. Further studies are needed to determine whether this increase represents a true increase from changing risk factors or an artifactual increase from improved detection.

Racism-related stress and psychological distress: Black Women's Experiences Living with Lupus study

Disparate health consequences in African American women with systemic lupus erythematosus include greater severity of physical and psychological distress. Racism-related stress is also related to psychological distress correlates in this population. This study examined the relationships between racism-related experiences, psychological distress, and systemic lupus erythematosus activity in 430 African American women from the Black Women's Experiences Living with Lupus study. The structural equation model suggests that psychological distress mediates the relationship between racism-related stress and systemic lupus erythematosus disease activity. The impact of racism-related stress on systemic lupus erythematosus disease activity may occur primarily through their impact on psychological health variables. Implications for clinical care and future directions are explored.

Treating Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE): The Impact of Historical Environmental Context on Healthcare Perceptions and Decision-Making in Charleston, South Carolina

INTRODUCTION

Over 400,000 slaves were taken from Africa and brought to Charleston, South Carolina, as part of the transatlantic slave trade during the 18th and 19th centuries. Due to these negative historical events, the healthcare of African Americans in Charleston may be compromised in regard to chronic illnesses and other conditions affecting minorities, such as lupus.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The current study used an ethnographic approach to obtain the perspectives of lupus patients with the goal of identifying gaps within current research. In addition to patient perspectives, the geographical location of Charleston, South Carolina was considered through inquiries around culture, community, advocacy, and client/patient interaction to establish a narrative for the themes that emerged.

RESULTS

The eleven major themes identified were connectedness, knowledge, experience with lupus, compliance, clinical trial participation, career and planning for the future, visits, access to resources, lifestyle, transition from child to adult care, and an overarching theme of self-management.

CONCLUSION

Understanding healthcare perceptions and decision-making among culturally diverse populations, particularly those who have been defined by centuries of substandard care, marginalization, exploitation, and distrust, is critical to the development of culturally tailored interventions designed to improve patient outcomes and reduce health disparities.

Peer approaches to self-management (PALS): comparing a peer mentoring approach for disease self-management in African American women with lupus with a social support control: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE or lupus) is a chronic autoimmune disease that is associated with increased morbidity, mortality, healthcare costs and decreased quality of life. African Americans in the USA have three to four times greater prevalence of SLE, risk of developing SLE at an earlier age, and SLE-related disease activity, damage, and mortality compared with Caucasians, with the highest rates experienced by African American women. There is strong evidence that patient-level factors are associated with outcomes, which justifies targeting them with intervention. While evidence-based self-management interventions that incorporate both social support and health education have reduced pain, improved function, and delayed disability among patients with SLE, African Americans and women are still disproportionately impacted by SLE. Peer mentoring interventions are effective in other chronic conditions that disproportionately affect minorities, such as diabetes mellitus, HIV, and kidney disease, but there is currently no empirically tested peer mentoring intervention developed for patients with SLE. Preliminary data from our group suggest that peer mentoring improves self-management, reduces disease activity, and improves health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in African American women with SLE.

METHODS

This study will test an innovative, manualized peer mentorship program designed to provide modeling and reinforcement by peers (mentors) to other African American women with SLE (mentees) to encourage them to engage in activities that promote disease self-management. Through a randomized, "mentored" or "support group" controlled design, we will assess the efficacy and mechanism(s) of this intervention in self-management, disease activity, and HRQOL.

DISCUSSION

This is the first study to test peer mentorship as an alternative strategy to improve outcomes in African American women with SLE. This could result in a model for other programs that aim to improve disease self-management, disease activity, and HRQOL in African American women suffering from chronic illness. The peer mentoring approach is uniquely fitted to African Americans, and this intervention has the potential to lead to health improvements for African American women with SLE that have not been attainable with other interventions. This would significantly reduce disparities and have considerable public health impact.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03734055 . Registered on 27 November 2018.

Vicarious Racism Stress and Disease Activity: the Black Women's Experiences Living with Lupus (BeWELL) Study

BACKGROUND

Indirect or vicarious exposure to racism (e.g., hearing about or observing acts of racism or discrimination) is a salient source of stress for African Americans. Emerging research suggests that these "secondhand" experiences of racism may contribute to racial health inequities through stress-mediated pathways. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an inflammatory autoimmune disease that disproportionately impacts African American women and is characterized by racial disparities in severity. Health outcomes in this population may be susceptible to vicarious racism given that SLE is shown to be sensitive to psychosocial stress.

METHODS

Data are from 431 African American women with SLE living in Atlanta, Georgia in the Black Women's Experiences Living with Lupus (BeWELL) Study (2015-2017). Vicarious racism stress was measured with four items assessing distress from (1) hearing about racism in the news; (2) experiences of racism among friends or family; (3) witnessing racism in public; and (4) racism depicted in movies and television shows. Multivariable linear regression was used to examine associations with disease activity measured using the Systemic Lupus Activity Questionnaire.

RESULTS

Adjusting for sociodemographic and health-related covariates, vicarious racism stress was associated with greater disease activity (b = 2.15; 95% CI = 1.04-3.27). This association persisted even after adjustment for personal experiences of racial discrimination (b = 1.80; 95% CI = 0.67-2.92).

CONCLUSIONS

Vicarious racism may result in heightened disease activity and contribute to racial disparities in SLE. Our findings suggest that acts of racism committed against members of one's racial group may have distinct health consequences beyond the immediate victim or target.

Autoantibodies in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Target Mitochondrial RNA

The mitochondrion supplies energy to the cell and regulates apoptosis. Unlike other mammalian organelles, mitochondria are formed by binary fission and cannot be directly produced by the cell. They contain numerous copies of a compact circular genome that encodes RNA molecules and proteins involved in mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation. Whereas, mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) activates the innate immune system if present in the cytosol or the extracellular milieu, it is also the target of circulating autoantibodies in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). However, it is not known whether mitochondrial RNA is also recognized by autoantibodies in SLE. In the present study, we evaluated the presence of autoantibodies targeting mitochondrial RNA (AmtRNA) in SLE. We quantified AmtRNA in an inducible model of murine SLE. The AmtRNA were also determined in SLE patients and healthy volunteers. AmtRNA titers were measured in both our induced model of murine SLE and in human SLE, and biostatistical analyses were performed to determine whether the presence and/or levels of AmtRNA were associated with clinical features expressed by SLE patients. Both IgG and IgM classes of AmtRNA were increased in SLE patients (n = 86) compared to healthy controls (n = 30) (p < 0.0001 and p = 0.0493, respectively). AmtRNA IgG levels correlated with anti-mtDNA-IgG titers (r_s = 0.54, p < 0.0001) as well as with both IgG and IgM against β-2-glycoprotein I (anti-β₂GPI; r_s = 0.22, p = 0.05), and AmtRNA-IgG antibodies were present at higher levels when patients were positive for autoantibodies to double-stranded-genomic DNA (p < 0.0001). AmtRNA-IgG were able to specifically discriminate SLE patients from healthy controls, and were negatively associated with plaque formation (p = 0.04) and lupus nephritis (p = 0.03). Conversely, AmtRNA-IgM titers correlated with those of anti-β₂GPI-IgM (r_s = 0.48, p < 0.0001). AmtRNA-IgM were higher when patients were positive for anticardiolipin antibodies (aCL-IgG: p = 0.01; aCL-IgM: p = 0.002), but AmtRNA-IgM were not associated with any of the clinical manifestations assessed. These findings identify mtRNA as a novel mitochondrial antigen target in SLE, and support the concept that mitochondria may provide an important source of circulating autoantigens in SLE.

Ethnic benign neutropenia: A phenomenon finds an explanation

Ethnic benign neutropenia (ENP) is the most common form of neutropenia (NP) worldwide, if an absolute blood neutrophil count (ANC) of < 1.5 G/L is used as definition. In 2009, ENP was associated with a gene variation in the ACKR1/DARC gene, the same variation that also confers the Duffy-null trait. In 2017, a novel mechanism for ENP was introduced, questioning if ENP is a true neutropenic state, when the body's total neutrophil count (TBNC) is concerned. Here, we summarize the current knowledge of ENP, asking (1) How well does the peripheral blood ANC predict the TBNC? (2) Can we improve methods for assessing TBNC? (3) Will estimates of TBNC predict infection propensity and reduce the need for further, costly workup?

My life with lupus: contextual responses of African-American women with systemic lupus participating in a peer mentoring intervention to improve disease self-management

OBJECTIVE

The current article seeks to examine the ways in which African-American women with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) describe their disease experience and how they cope with their disease. This qualitative study provides deeper insight into whether experiences of African-American women with SLE differ from previous qualitative study findings.

METHODS

Qualitative data were gathered using interviews and a focus group, from participants in the Peer Approaches to Lupus Self-management (PALS) programme. Data were analysed for themes related to disease experience and how participants cope with their disease. Twenty-seven African-American women with SLE were recruited into the peer mentoring programme, of which 7 served as mentors and 20 served as mentees. A 12-week peer mentoring intervention delivered by phone and based on the Chronic Disease Self-Management and Arthritis Self-Management Programs.

RESULTS

Three categories encompassing a total of 10 subcategories emerged from analyses: (A) interpersonal, familialandromantic relationships; (B) individual experiences of living with SLE; and (C) physician-patient relationships.

CONCLUSION

We gained insight on several issues related to patient perspectives of African-American women with SLE, and the context surrounding their thoughts and feelings related to lupus, including their providers, families and other social support networks. Additional research efforts could explore and address the thematic domains and respective subthemes identified here. Although limited due to the preliminary nature of the study, this information can be used to create future evidence-based interventions to decrease the impact of SLE on African-American patients.

Transition and transfer of the patient with paediatric-onset lupus: a practical approach for paediatric and adult rheumatology practices

The prevalence of paediatric-onset SLE (pSLE) is estimated at 1million people worldwide and accounts for a significant proportion of SLE morbidity, mortality and cost. Patients with pSLE are especially vulnerable during and immediately following transfer from paediatric to adult rheumatology care, when substantial delays in care and increased disease activity are common. Transition is the process through which adolescents and young adults (AYA) develop the skills needed to succeed in the adult healthcare environment, a process that typically takes several years and may span a patient's time in paediatric and adult clinics. Recommendations for improving transition and transfer for AYA with pSLE include setting expectations of the AYA patient and family concerning transition and transfer, developing AYA's self-management skills, preparing an individualised transition plan that identifies a date for transfer, transferring at a time of medical and social stability, coordinating communication between the paediatric and adult rheumatologists (inclusive of both a medical summary and key social factors), and identifying a transition coordinator as a point person for care transfer and to monitor the AYA's arrival and retention in adult rheumatology care. Of paramount importance is empowering the adult rheumatologist with skills that enhance rapport with AYA patients, engage AYA patients and families in adult care models, promote adherence and encourage ongoing development of self-management skills.

Race/ethnicity is an independent risk factor for autoimmune hepatitis among the San Francisco underserved

Although autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is more common in women and affects people of all races/ethnicities, there is currently limited information regarding the relationship between race/ethnicity and AIH, especially in the context of underserved populations. We aim to evaluate the relationship between race/ethnicity and AIH and better characterize its clinical features among different racial groups. We conducted a 15-year retrospective analysis, from January 2002 to June 2017, of patients seen at Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital (ZSFG). Sixty-three AIH patients and 2049 non-AIH controls were eligible for the study. The main predictor of interest was race/ethnicity, and the main outcome of interest was AIH diagnosis; other secondary measures recorded include clinical features such as ALT, bilirubin, and biopsy fibrosis at presentation. In a multivariable model adjusting for age and sex, we found that black (OR 9.6, 95% CI 1.8-178), Latino (OR 25.0, 95% CI 5.3-448), and Asian/Pacific Islander (API) (OR 10.8, 95% CI 2.2-196) race/ethnicity were associated with increased odds of an AIH diagnosis compared to the white reference group. Among people of colour with AIH, there were no significant differences in baseline ALT (p = .45), total bilirubin at presentation (p = .06), fibrosis at presentation (p = .74), and hospitalization (p = .27). Race/ethnicity is an independent risk factor for AIH. The clinical features of AIH did not differ significantly among black, Latino, and API patients.

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus in Primary Care: An Update and Practical Messages for the General Practitioner

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is a complex chronic autoimmune disease that manifests a wide range of organ involvement. Traditionally, the diagnosis and management of SLE is provided at secondary and tertiary centers to ensure prompt initiation of treatment, adequate control of flares and prevention of irreversible organ damage. Notwithstanding, the role of primary care in SLE is also emerging as there are still significant unmet needs such as the diagnostic delay at the community level and the high burden of therapy- and disease-related comorbidities. In the present review, we summarize practical messages for primary care physicians and general practitioners (GPs) concerning early diagnosis and proper referral of patients with SLE. In addition, we discuss the main comorbidities complicating the disease course and the recommended preventative measures, and we also provide an update on the role and current educational needs of GPs regarding the disease.

Socioeconomic consequences of systemic lupus erythematosus

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The present review addresses recent literature investigating the socioeconomic consequences of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). We highlight the latest updates on health disparities affecting the SLE population, the direct and indirect economic costs of the disease, and less quantifiable costs such as reduced health-related quality of life (HRQoL).

RECENT FINDINGS

Health disparities continue to exist among socially disadvantaged populations, including African Americans, Hispanics, and patients with decreased educational attainment and in poverty. Direct and indirect costs are substantial. Recent work provides updated cost estimates for patients with SLE outside of North America, including those in developing countries. Previous research has largely focused on costs of the general SLE population and those with renal manifestations or active SLE, whereas recent research addresses special populations such as hospitalized and pregnant patients and glucocorticoid users. Patients with SLE and their caregivers experience a substantially reduced HRQoL.

SUMMARY

SLE is a costly disease that disproportionately affects disadvantaged populations. Future economic studies should measure not only direct costs, but also incorporate indirect costs and the HRQoL of both patients with SLE and their caregivers. All these components are essential to provide a comprehensive assessment of the socioeconomic consequences of SLE and an appreciation of the potential impact of novel therapies.

Screening epitopes on systemic lupus erythematosus autoantigens with a peptide array

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a common autoimmune disease. Many autoantibodies are closely associated with SLE. However, the specific epitopes recognized and bound by these autoantibodies are still unclear. This study screened the binding epitopes of SLE-related autoantibodies using a high-throughput screening method. Epitope prediction on 12 SLE-related autoantigens was performed using the Immune Epitope Database and Analysis Resource (IEDB) software. The predicted epitopes were synthesized into peptides and developed into a peptide array. Serum IgG from 50 SLE patients and 25 healthy controls was detected using the peptide array. The results were then validated using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The diagnostic efficiency of each epitope was analyzed using a ROC curve. Seventy-three potential epitopes were screened for using the IEDB software after the epitopes on the 12 SLE-related autoantigens were analyzed. Peptide array screening revealed that the levels of the autoantibodies recognized and bound by 4 peptide antigens were significantly upregulated in the serum of SLE patients (P < 0.05). The ELISA results showed that the 4 antigens with significantly increased serum autoantibodies levels in SLE patients were acidic ribosomal phosphoprotein (P0)-4, acidic ribosomal phosphoprotein (P0)-11, DNA topoisomerase 1 (full length)-1, and U1-SnRNP 68/70 KDa-1 (P < 0.05), and the areas under the ROC curve for diagnosing SLE on the basis of these peptides were 0.91, 0.90, 0.93, and 0.91, respectively. Many autoantibodies specifically expressed in the serum of patients with SLE can be detected by specific peptide fragments and may be used as markers in clinical auxiliary diagnoses.

Use of SLICC criteria in a large, diverse lupus registry enables SLE classification of a subset of ACR-designated subjects with incomplete lupus

Objective

SLE is traditionally classified using the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) criteria. The Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics (SLICC) recently validated an alternative system. This study examined large cohorts of subjects with SLE and incomplete lupus erythematosus (ILE) to compare the impact of ACR and SLICC criteria.

Methods

Medical records of subjects in the Lupus Family Registry and Repository were reviewed for documentation of 1997 ACR classification criteria, SLICC classification criteria and medication usage. Autoantibodies were assessed by indirect immunofluorescence (ANA, antidouble-stranded DNA), precipitin (Sm) and ELISA (anticardiolipin). Other relevant autoantibodies were detected by precipitin and with a bead-based multiplex assay.

Results

Of 3575 subjects classified with SLE under at least one system, 3312 (92.6%) were classified as SLE by both systems (SLE^both), 85 only by ACR criteria (SLE^ACR-only) and 178 only by SLICC criteria (SLE^SLICC-only). Of 440 subjects meeting 3 ACR criteria, 33.9% (149/440) were SLE^SLICC-only, while 66.1% (n=291, designated ILE) did not meet the SLICC classification criteria. Under the SLICC system, the complement criterion and the individual autoantibody criteria enabled SLE classification of SLE^SLICC-only subjects, while SLE^ACR-only subjects failed to meet SLICC classification due to the combined acute/subacute cutaneous criterion. The SLICC criteria classified more African-American subjects by the leucopenia/lymphopenia criterion than did ACR criteria. Compared with SLE^ACR-only subjects, SLE^SLICC-only subjects exhibited similar numbers of affected organ systems, rates of major organ system involvement (∼30%: pulmonary, cardiovascular, renal, neurological) and medication history.

Conclusions

The SLICC criteria classify more subjects with SLE than ACR criteria; however, individuals with incomplete lupus still exist under SLICC criteria. Subjects who gain SLE classification through SLICC criteria exhibit heterogeneous disease, including potential major organ involvement. These results provide supportive evidence that SLICC criteria may be more inclusive of SLE subjects for clinical studies.