Cutaneous lupus in infancy and childhood

Detection of antinuclear antibodies: recommendations from EFLM, EASI and ICAP

OBJECTIVES

Antinuclear antibodies (ANA) are important for the diagnosis of various autoimmune diseases. ANA are usually detected by indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA) using HEp-2 cells (HEp-2 IFA). There are many variables influencing HEp-2 IFA results, such as subjective visual reading, serum screening dilution, substrate manufacturing, microscope components and conjugate. Newer developments on ANA testing that offer novel features adopted by some clinical laboratories include automated computer-assisted diagnosis (CAD) systems and solid phase assays (SPA).

METHODS

A group of experts reviewed current literature and established recommendations on methodological aspects of ANA testing. This process was supported by a two round Delphi exercise. International expert groups that participated in this initiative included (i) the European Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (EFLM) Working Group "Autoimmunity Testing"; (ii) the European Autoimmune Standardization Initiative (EASI); and (iii) the International Consensus on ANA Patterns (ICAP).

RESULTS

In total, 35 recommendations/statements related to (i) ANA testing and reporting by HEp-2 IFA; (ii) HEp-2 IFA methodological aspects including substrate/conjugate selection and the application of CAD systems; (iii) quality assurance; (iv) HEp-2 IFA validation/verification approaches and (v) SPA were formulated. Globally, 95% of all submitted scores in the final Delphi round were above 6 (moderately agree, agree or strongly agree) and 85% above 7 (agree and strongly agree), indicating strong international support for the proposed recommendations.

CONCLUSIONS

These recommendations are an important step to achieve high quality ANA testing.

Anti-Ro60 and anti-Ro52/TRIM21: Two distinct autoantibodies in systemic autoimmune diseases

As iconic and important diagnostic autoantibodies, anti-Ro60 and anti-Ro52/tri-partite motif-containing 21 (TRIM21) make a common appearance in a number of systemic autoimmune disorders such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). These autoantibodies often co-exist together; yet despite their close relationship, there is no evidence that they are physically linked and probably reflect a convergence of separate processes of failed immunological tolerance. Confusingly, they are sometimes classed together as the "SSA" or "Ro" autoantibody system without clear distinction between the two. In this Short Communication, we discuss the diagnostic merits for separate detection and reporting of these two autoantibodies, and discuss avenues for future research. Indeed, further insight into their fascinating origins and pathogenic roles in autoimmunity will surely shed light on how we can prevent and treat devastating autoimmune disorders.

Identification of a unique anti-Ro60 subset with restricted serological and molecular profiles

Anti-Ro60 is one of the most common and clinically important serum autoantibodies that has a number of diagnostic and predictive capabilities. Most diagnostic laboratories report this simply as a qualitative positive/negative result. The objective of this study was to examine the clinical and serological relevance of a novel subset of anti-Ro60 in patients who display low levels of anti-Ro60 (anti-Ro60low ). We retrospectively identified anti-Ro60 sera during a 12-month period at a major immunopathology diagnostic laboratory in Australia. These all were anti-Ro60-precipitin-positive on the diagnostic gold standard counter-immuno-electrophoresis (CIEP). Lineblot immunoassay was used to stratify patients into either anti-Ro60low or anti-Ro60high subsets. We compared the medical and laboratory parameters associated with each group. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and mass spectrometry techniques were used to analyse the serological and molecular basis behind the two subsets. Anti-Ro60low patients displayed less serological activity than anti-Ro60high patients with less intermolecular spreading, hypergammaglobulinaemia and less tendency to undergo anti-Ro60 isotype-switching than anti-Ro60high patients. Mass spectrometric typing of the anti-Ro60low subset showed restricted variable heavy chain subfamily usage and amino acid point mutations. This subset also displayed clinical relevance, being present in a number of patients with systemic autoimmune rheumatic diseases (SARD). We identify a novel anti-Ro60low patient subset that is distinct from anti-Ro60high patients serologically and molecularly. It is not clear whether they arise from common or separate origins; however, they probably have different developmental pathways to account for the stark difference in immunological maturity. We hence demonstrate significance to anti-Ro60low and justify accurate detection in the diagnostic laboratory.

Neonatal lupus presenting as a non-specific rash in primary care

Neonatal lupus erythematosus is a rare autoimmune disease caused by passive transplacental acquisition of maternal autoantibodies manifesting in cutaneous, cardiac, haematological and hepatobiliary abnormalities. The hallmark dermatological finding is erythematous annular lesions with a predilection for photo-exposed areas of the skin. We present a case of a female infant born to a mother with Sjogren's syndrome, who initially presented to an ambulatory care setting with non-specific erythematous papules involving the face and scalp. Within 6 days the rash changed in appearance, consisting of widespread erythematous annular and polycyclic lesions with central violaceous clearing and atrophy. Serological tests revealed asymptomatic anemia and leukopenia, elevated liver enzymes, and positive antinuclear antibodies (ANA) and anti-SSb/La antibodies. Further cardiac evaluation was normal. She was managed conservatively in the outpatient setting with topical steroids, avoidance of sunlight and fluorescent light exposure, and primary care, rheumatological and dermatological follow-up.

Neonatal lupus erythematosus presenting with rash, thrombocytopenia compounded by cytomegalovirus colonisation: a diagnostic dilemma

Neonatal lupus erythematosus (NLE) should be considered when a newborn develops atrioventricular heart block along with the presence of autoantibodies to Sjogren's syndrome autoantigens in the maternal serum. NLE can also present with features such as cutaneous lesions, hepatic dysfunction or haematological abnormalities. Differential diagnosis usually includes congenital infections as there is a significant overlap of symptoms with NLE. We report a case of NLE who had multiorgan involvement with macular erythematous skin lesions present at birth, and on investigation was found to have cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection. The diagnostic dilemma was whether to consider this infection as symptomatic or just colonisation. In the infant described, the absence of end organ damage specific to CMV infection (hearing loss, intracranial calcifications, retinitis, brain involvement) made a diagnosis of symptomatic CMV unlikely.

Ro60 and Y RNAs: structure, functions, and roles in autoimmunity

Ro60, also known as SS-A or TROVE2, is an evolutionarily conserved RNA-binding protein that is found in most animal cells, approximately 5% of sequenced prokaryotic genomes and some archaea. Ro60 is present in cells as both a free protein and as a component of a ribonucleoprotein complex, where its best-known partners are members of a class of noncoding RNAs called Y RNAs. Structural and biochemical analyses have revealed that Ro60 is a ring-shaped protein that binds Y RNAs on its outer surface. In addition to Y RNAs, Ro60 binds misfolded and aberrant noncoding RNAs in some animal cell nuclei. Although the fate of these defective Ro60-bound noncoding RNAs in animal cells is not well-defined, a bacterial Ro60 ortholog functions with 3' to 5' exoribonucleases to assist structured RNA degradation. Studies of Y RNAs have revealed that these RNAs regulate the subcellular localization of Ro60, tether Ro60 to effector proteins and regulate the access of other RNAs to its central cavity. As both mammalian cells and bacteria lacking Ro60 are sensitized to ultraviolet irradiation, Ro60 function may be important during exposure to some environmental stressors. Here we summarize the current knowledge regarding the functions of Ro60 and Y RNAs in animal cells and bacteria. Because the Ro60 RNP is a clinically important target of autoantibodies in patients with rheumatic diseases such as Sjogren's syndrome, systemic lupus erythematosus, and neonatal lupus, we also discuss potential roles for Ro60 RNPs in the initiation and pathogenesis of systemic autoimmune rheumatic disease.

Validation of the Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus Disease Area and Severity Index and pSkindex27 for use in childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus

Objective

To determine the measurement properties of the Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus Disease Area and Severity Index (CLASI) and the paediatric adaptation of the Skindex29 (pSkindex27) when used in childhood-onset SLE (cSLE).

Methods

Patients with mucocutaneous involvement of cSLE were evaluated at the study entry and 6 months later. Besides the CLASI and pSkindex27, the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory Generic Core scale (PedsQL-GC), its Rheumatology Module (PedsQL-RM), the SLE Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI) and the SLE Damage Index (SDI) were completed.

Results

The CLASI and pSkindex27 had high internal consistency (both Cronbach α >0.82). Children were able to complete the pSkindex27, with self-report and caregiver proxy-reports showing excellent agreement (intraclass correlation coefficient=0.97). The CLASI Activity Score (CLASI-A) was strongly correlated with the mucocutaneous domain score of the SLEDAI as was the CLASI Damage Score (CLASI-D) with that of the SDI (both: Spearman correlation coefficients (r_s) >0.68). pSkindex27 summary scores were moderately correlated with those of the PedsQL-GC and PedsQL-RM (all: r_s>|0.51|), the CLASI-A and CLASI-D (both: r_s> 0.64), respectively. Patients who experienced a >50% improvement of the CLASI-A between study visits had significantly higher PedsQL-GC and pSkindex27 scores than those without improvement of mucocutaneous features.

Conclusion

Both CLASI and pSkindex27 are useful assessment tools in cSLE, active and chronic mucocutaneous lesions and their changes over time can be measured using the CLASI and the pSkindex27 can capture the impact of mucocutaneous involvement on patient health-related quality of life.

Oral Ulcers in Juvenile-Onset Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Review of the Literature

Oral ulcers are the most common mucosal sign in juvenile-onset systemic lupus erythematosus (JSLE). The ulcers are one of the key clinical features; however, the terminology of oral ulcers, especially in JSLE patients, is often vague and ill-defined. In fact, there are several clinical manifestations of oral ulcers in JSLE, and some lesions occur when the disease is active, indicating that early management of the disease should be started. Oral ulcers are classified as lupus erythematosus (LE) specific, where the lesional biopsy shows a unique pattern of mucosal change in LE, and LE nonspecific, where the ulcers and their histopathological findings can be found in other oral diseases. Here, the clinical manifestations, diagnosis and management of oral ulcers in JSLE patients are reviewed.

Neonatal lupus erythematosus: a cutaneous cases based update

BACKGROUND

Neonatal Lupus Erythematosus (NLE) is an uncommon autoimmune disease characterized by cutaneous, hepatic, hematological, neurological and cardiac involvement.

CASE PRESENTATION

Here we report four cases of cutaneous NLE which were referred to our department in the last 10 years and update literature. The newborns presented with different skin, clinical and laboratory features. This underlines the phenotypic variability of NLE. We investigated the passage of maternal antinuclear antibodies (ANA) and extractable nuclear antigen antibodies (ENA) - particularly anti-Ro/SSA, anti-La/SSB and anti-U1 ribonucleoprotein RNP - through the placenta. Despite the positive family background, cutaneous NLE and serological data improved in infants within 4 months without treatment.

CONCLUSION

The evolution of cutaneous NLE may be the spontaneous regression of lesions within six months without progression to Systemic Lupus Erytehmatosus.

Detection of Type VII Collagen Autoantibodies Before the Onset of Bullous Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

IMPORTANCE

Anti-type VII collagen autoantibodies are often detectable in patients with bullous systemic lupus erythematosus (BSLE). However, the timing of their appearance preceding the onset of disease is unknown to date.

OBSERVATIONS

We report the case of a 50-year-old woman with a history of SLE who was seen with vesicles and bullae around her lips, trunk, axillae, arms, and thighs. Histologic analysis and immunofluorescence and immunoblot studies confirmed the diagnosis of BSLE. Immunoblotting and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay studies of the patient's serum obtained 3 months before the onset of BSLE showed the presence of anti-type VII collagen autoantibodies. Levels of anti-type VII collagen IgG increased after bullous lesions appeared. Within 1 month after initiating dapsone therapy and increasing the dosage of prednisone, skin lesions promptly resolved. One year after the onset of BSLE, the anti-type VII collagen IgG decreased below levels observed before the inception of the bullous lesions.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Anti-type VII collagen autoantibodies can precede the clinical appearance of BSLE. The subsequent increase and decrease in levels of circulating anti-type VII collagen autoantibodies, which mirrored skin disease activity, support a potential role in their initiation of disease.

Mucocutaneous manifestations in juvenile-onset systemic lupus erythematosus: a review of literature

Patients diagnosed with juvenile-onset systemic lupus erythematosus (JSLE) often have skin and oral lesions as part of their presentation. These mucocutaneous lesions, as defined by the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) in 1997, include malar rash, discoid rash, photosensitivity and oral ulcers. It is therefore essential to recognize mucocutaneous lesions to accurately diagnose JSLE. The mucocutaneous lesions can be divided into those with classical histological features (LE specific) and those strongly associated with and forming part of the diagnostic spectrum, but without the classical histological changes of lupus (LE nonspecific). A malar rash is the most commonly associated LE specific dermatological presentation. This skin manifestation is an acute form and also correlates with disease activity. Subacute (polycyclic or papulosquamous lesions) and chronic (discoid lesions) forms, whilst showing classical histological changes supportive of lupus, are less commonly associated with systemic lupus and do not correlate with disease activity. The most commonly associated skin lesions without classical lupus changes are cutaneous vasculitis, oral ulcers and diffuse non-scarring alopecia. These signs frequently relate to disease activity. An understanding of cutaneous signs and symptoms of lupus in children is important to avoid delay in diagnosis. They will often improve as lupus is adequately controlled and their reappearance is often the first indicator of a disease flare.

Hot topics in lupus pregnancy

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) typically affects women in their childbearing age, who have the same fertility rates as the healthy population. The effect of pregnancy on the disease and the effect of SLE on pregnancy and the fetus are highly important issues for the attending physician. Whether lupus flares are more frequent during pregnancy remains controversial. Among the possible effects of SLE on pregnancy are a greater number of abortions, fetal loss, pre-term deliveries and perinatal mortality. The newborn may be affected by the onset of neonatal lupus erythematosus (neonatal LE), either as a skin or blood disease, or by the presence of congenital heart block. The frequent association between SLE and antiphospholipid syndrome represents another risk situation for the mother and the product of conception. Multiples drugs used in SLE patients should be evaluated. Those with teratogenic potential should be withdrawn before pregnancy, and when necessary, appropriate medications should be indicated to treat the mother without compromising the safety of the baby. In conclusion, pregnancies in lupus patients represent a challenge for the physician and must be closely followed up and treated if necessary, during all trimesters and in the puerperium period, to improve outcome.

Neonatal lupus erythematosus mimicking extensive capillary malformation

Neonatal lupus erythematosus is an uncommon transplacentally acquired autoimmune disorder. We report a 7-month-old boy with cutaneous involvement of neonatal lupus erythematosus mimicking an extensive capillary malformation.

Current treatment strategies: collagen vascular diseases in children

Of the various collagen vascular diseases seen in pediatric age group, discoid lupus erythematosus, systemic lupus erythematosus, neonatal lupus erythematosus, juvenile dermatomyositis and childhood scleroderma are common and of practical importance to clinicians. Various treatment modalities of these conditions have been discussed at length. Of these, some are conventional and routine,while others are used in challenging situations of these diseases. Autologous stem cell transplant, biological therapies, intravenous immunoglobulin and narrow band ultraviolet B are among the latest therapeutic options for these difficult-to-treat conditions in children.

Neonatal lupus erythematosus and its clinical variability

Neonatal lupus erythematosus (NLE) is a rare disease affecting newborns that is caused by maternal autoantibodies transmitted across the placenta. The disease may affect the skin, the heart, and rarely the hepatobiliary or hematological systems. A serious complication affecting some patients with NLE is atrioventricular heart block (AV block). The clinical picture of cutaneous NLE varies considerably. NLE presents with confluent, scaly, periorbital erythema, or erythematous infiltrated plaques with central vesicles and lesions resembling seborrheic eczema or fungal infection. In any newborn with such skin lesions, NLE should be included in the differential diagnosis. Dermatologists play an important role in the diagnosis. We review different skin lesions occurring in neonatal lupus erythematosus based on five patients from our own clinic.

Neonatal lupus erythematosus

Neonatal lupus erythematosus (NLE) refers to a clinical spectrum of cutaneous, cardiac, and systemic abnormalities observed in newborn infants whose mothers have autoantibodies against Ro/SSA and La/SSB. The condition is rare and usually benign and self-limited but sometimes may be associated with serious sequelae. We review the pathophysiology, clinical features, and management of infants with this condition. Neonates with NLE should be managed at a tertiary care center. Multidisciplinary team involvement may also be indicated. In mothers with anti-Ro/SSA and/or anti-La/SSB antibodies and infants with congenital heart block, the risk of recurrence in subsequent offspring is 17–25%. Therefore, careful monitoring of subsequent pregnancies with serial ultrasonography and echocardiography is essential.

Neonatal Lupus Erythematosus Mimicking Extensive Capillary Malformation

  Neonatal lupus erythematosus is an uncommon transplacentally acquired autoimmune disorder. We report a 7-month-old boy with cutaneous involvement of neonatal lupus erythematosus mimicking an extensive capillary malformation.

Emerging roles for the Ro 60-kDa autoantigen in noncoding RNA metabolism

All cells contain an enormous variety of ribonucleoprotein (RNP) complexes that function in diverse processes. Although the mechanisms by which many of these RNPs contribute to cell metabolism are well understood, the roles of others are only now beginning to be revealed. A member of this latter category, the Ro 60-kDa protein and its associated noncoding Y RNAs, was discovered because the protein component is a frequent target of the autoimmune response in patients with the rheumatic diseases systemic lupus erythematosus and Sjögren's syndrome. Recent studies have shown that Ro is ring shaped, binds the single-stranded ends of misfolded noncoding RNAs in its central cavity, and may function in noncoding RNA quality control. Although Ro is not present in yeast, many bacterial genomes contain potential Ro orthologs. In the radiation-resistant eubacterium Deinococcus radiodurans, the Ro ortholog functions with exoribonucleases during stress-induced changes in RNA metabolism. Moreover, in both D. radiodurans and animal cells, Ro is involved in the response to multiple types of environmental stress. Finally, Y RNAs can influence the subcellular location of Ro, inhibit access of the central cavity to other RNAs, and may also act as binding sites for proteins that influence Ro function. WIREs RNA 2011 2 686-699 DOI: 10.1002/wrna.85 For further resources related to this article, please visit the WIREs website.