1
|
Abstract
Despite improvements in patient and renal death rates following the introduction of potent immunosuppressive drugs in earlier decades, a sizeable fraction of patients with lupus nephritis is burdened with suboptimal or delayed responses, relapses, chronic use of glucocorticoids and accrual of renal (chronic renal insufficiency) and extra-renal organ damage. The recently approved combinatory treatments comprising belimumab or voclosporin added to conventional agents, especially mycophenolate, hold promise for further improving disease outcomes and enabling a faster steroid tapering, thus being relevant to the treat-to-target context. However, it remains uncertain whether these dual regimens should become the first-line choice for all patients or instead be prioritized to certain subgroups. In the present article, we summarize the existing lupus nephritis management recommendations, followed by a critical appraisal of the randomized trials of belimumab and voclosporin, as well as the available data on obinutuzumab and other novel compounds under development. We conclude that pending the identification of accurate clinical, histological, or translational predictors for guiding personalized decisions, it is of utmost importance that lupus nephritis patients are monitored closely with appropriate treatment adjustments aiming at a prompt, deep response to ensure long-term preservation of kidney function.
Collapse
|
2
|
Moschetti L, Piantoni S, Vizzardi E, Sciatti E, Riccardi M, Franceschini F, Cavazzana I. Endothelial Dysfunction in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Systemic Sclerosis: A Common Trigger for Different Microvascular Diseases. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:849086. [PMID: 35462989 PMCID: PMC9023861 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.849086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
This review describes the complex interplay between inflammation, vasculopathy and fibrosis that involve the heart and peripheral small vessels, leading to endothelial stiffness, vascular damage, and early aging in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus and systemic sclerosis, which represents two different models of vascular dysfunction among systemic autoimmune diseases. In fact, despite the fact that diagnostic methods and therapies have been significantly improved in the last years, affected patients show an excess of cardiovascular mortality if compared with the general population. In addition, we provide a complete overview on the new techniques which are used for the evaluation of endothelial dysfunction in a preclinical phase, which could represent a new approach in the assessment of cardiovascular risk in these patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liala Moschetti
- Rheumatology and Clinical immunology Unit, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Silvia Piantoni
- Rheumatology and Clinical immunology Unit, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
- *Correspondence: Silvia Piantoni,
| | - Enrico Vizzardi
- Cardiology Unit, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences and Public Health, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | | | - Mauro Riccardi
- Cardiology Unit, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences and Public Health, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Franco Franceschini
- Rheumatology and Clinical immunology Unit, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Ilaria Cavazzana
- Rheumatology and Clinical immunology Unit, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Ali AY, Abdullah H, Abdallah MFH, Fayed A. Impact of Adipokines in Brachial Artery Flow-mediated Dilatation in Lupus Nephritis. SAUDI JOURNAL OF KIDNEY DISEASES AND TRANSPLANTATION 2022; 33:272-279. [PMID: 37417179 DOI: 10.4103/1319-2442.379025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Endothelial dysfunction is evident in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Pro-inflammatory adipokines are involved in endothelial derangement and premature atherosclerosis, particularly in lupus nephritis (LN). This study aimed to investigate the impact of LN on endothelial function by estimating the serum levels of adiponectin, leptin, visfatin, and homeostatic model assessment-insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and calculating the flow-mediated dilatation (FMD) of the brachial artery. This is a case-control study in which 190 systemic lupus patients who were fulfilling the American College of Rheumatology revised classification were enrolled. The patients were divided into 100 LN patients and 90 lupus non-nephritis patients. Demographic data, clinical parameters, and SLE activity were reported. Serum adiponectin, leptin, visfatin, and HOMA-IR were measured. The endothelial dysfunction was assessed by calculating the FMD of the brachial artery. The mean age of participants was 25.62 ± 5.81 years. Elevated levels of adiponectin, leptin, visfatin, and HOMA-IR were observed in LN cases (12.2 ± 0.3, 20.1 ± 0.5, 16.8 ± 0.1, and 12.0 ± 3.8, respectively) compared to non-nephritis cases (12.2 ± 0.3, 8.5 ± 0.5, 16.8 ± 0.5, and 9.0 ± 3.8, respectively) with a more reduced FMD percentage in LN cases with a statistical significance. Brachial artery FMD is negatively correlated with lipid profile, adipokines, and HOMA. Visfatin has better sensitivity (82.1%) and specificity (81%) with the area under a curve of 0.893, compared to other biomarkers. LN patients are characterized by impaired endothelial function. Elevated serum adiponectin, visfatin, and HOMA-IR were significantly correlated with poor FMD of the brachial artery. Visfatin has a better performance in detecting atherosclerosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Y Ali
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Hend Abdullah
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | | | - Ahmed Fayed
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Medeiros PBS, Salomão RG, Teixeira SR, Rassi DM, Rodrigues L, Aragon DC, Fassini PG, Ued FV, Tostes RC, Monteiro JP, Ferriani VPL, de Carvalho LM. Disease activity index is associated with subclinical atherosclerosis in childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus. Pediatr Rheumatol Online J 2021; 19:35. [PMID: 33743717 PMCID: PMC7981852 DOI: 10.1186/s12969-021-00513-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2020] [Accepted: 03/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular events. The present study determined the prevalence of subclinical atherosclerosis in childhood-onset SLE using the carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) measurement and investigated associations between traditional and nontraditional risk factors for atherosclerosis, such as medications, SLE Disease Activity Index - SLEDAI-2 K and SLICC-ACR damage index and CIMT. METHODS Cross-sectional prospective study between 2017 and 2018. CIMT was assessed by ultrasonography. Data were collected by chart review, nutritional evaluation and laboratory tests and analyzed by Fisher, Wilcoxon-Mann-Whitney tests, multiple linear and log binomial regression. RESULTS Twenty-eight patients (mean age 13.9 years, SD 3) were enrolled. The prevalence of subclinical atherosclerosis was 32% (95% CI 14.8, 49.4). The mean CIMT was 0.43 ± 0.035 mm. The most common traditional risk factors observed were dyslipidemia (82.1%), uncontrolled hypertension (14.2%), obesity (14.3%), and poor diet (78.6%). Uncontrolled hypertension (p = 0.04), proteinuria (p = 0.02), estimated glomerular filtration rate < 75 ml /min/1.73 m2 (p = 0.02) and SLEDAI-2 K > 5 (P = 0.04) were associated with subclinical atherosclerosis. SLEDAI-2 K > 5 maintained association with CIMT after adjusting for control variables. CONCLUSION Subclinical atherosclerosis is frequently observed in cSLE, mainly in patients with moderate to severe disease activity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Priscila B. S. Medeiros
- grid.11899.380000 0004 1937 0722Department of Pediatrics, University of São Paulo, Av. Bandeirantes, 3900, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo 14049-900 Brazil ,grid.11899.380000 0004 1937 0722Division of Pediatric Rheumatology, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo Brazil
| | - Roberta G. Salomão
- grid.11899.380000 0004 1937 0722Division of Nutrition and Metabolism, Department of Health Sciences, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo Brazil
| | - Sara R. Teixeira
- grid.11899.380000 0004 1937 0722Department of Medical Imaging, Oncology and Hematology, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo Brazil
| | - Diane M. Rassi
- grid.11899.380000 0004 1937 0722Department of Pharmacology, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo Brazil
| | - Luciana Rodrigues
- grid.11899.380000 0004 1937 0722Department of Pediatrics, University of São Paulo, Av. Bandeirantes, 3900, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo 14049-900 Brazil
| | - Davi C. Aragon
- grid.11899.380000 0004 1937 0722Department of Pediatrics, University of São Paulo, Av. Bandeirantes, 3900, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo 14049-900 Brazil
| | - Priscila G. Fassini
- grid.11899.380000 0004 1937 0722Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Nutrology, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo Brazil
| | - Fábio V. Ued
- grid.11899.380000 0004 1937 0722Division of Nutrition and Metabolism, Department of Health Sciences, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo Brazil
| | - Rita C. Tostes
- grid.11899.380000 0004 1937 0722Department of Pharmacology, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo Brazil
| | - Jacqueline P. Monteiro
- grid.11899.380000 0004 1937 0722Department of Pediatrics, University of São Paulo, Av. Bandeirantes, 3900, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo 14049-900 Brazil ,grid.11899.380000 0004 1937 0722Division of Nutrition and Metabolism, Department of Health Sciences, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo Brazil
| | - Virgínia P. L. Ferriani
- grid.11899.380000 0004 1937 0722Department of Pediatrics, University of São Paulo, Av. Bandeirantes, 3900, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo 14049-900 Brazil ,grid.11899.380000 0004 1937 0722Division of Pediatric Rheumatology, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo Brazil
| | - Luciana M. de Carvalho
- grid.11899.380000 0004 1937 0722Department of Pediatrics, University of São Paulo, Av. Bandeirantes, 3900, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo 14049-900 Brazil ,grid.11899.380000 0004 1937 0722Division of Pediatric Rheumatology, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo Brazil ,grid.11899.380000 0004 1937 0722Clinical Hospital of Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Av. Bandeirantes, 3900, Ribeirão Preto, SP 14049-900 Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Type I Interferon as cardiovascular risk factor in systemic and cutaneous lupus erythematosus: A systematic review. Autoimmun Rev 2021; 20:102794. [PMID: 33722754 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2021.102794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) have a high burden of cardiovascular disease (CVD) of multifactorial origin. The aim of this systematic review is to analyze the role of the interferon I (IFN-I) signature and fibroblast growth factor-23 (FGF-23) in patients with SLE or cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) herein. MATERIALS AND METHODS We conducted a systematic literature search in PubMed and Scopus using keywords for major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) and intermediate outcomes (endothelial dysfunction, subclinical atherosclerosis, platelet activation) associated with IFN-I or FGF-23 in patients with SLE and CLE. RESULTS 4745 citations were screened, of which 12 studies were included. IFN-I was associated with MACE in two third of the studies and the association was strongest for cardiac events. An association of IFN-I was found in all studies investigating impaired vascular function, but only in 50% (respectively 40%) of reports examining the relation of IFN-I and platelet activation (respectively subclinical atherosclerosis). Altogether the reports were of variable bias and quality due to high variability of examined IFN-I biomarkers and inconsistent results for different outcome measures. No studies investigating the cardiovascular risk of circulating IFN-I in CLE, nor FGF-23 in SLE or CLE were found. CONCLUSION Clinical studies measuring the association between IFN-I and direct / intermediate measures of CVD are rare and ambiguous in SLE and nonexistent in CLE, hampering a definite conclusion.
Collapse
|
6
|
Marczynski P, Meineck M, Xia N, Li H, Kraus D, Roth W, Möckel T, Boedecker S, Schwarting A, Weinmann-Menke J. Vascular Inflammation and Dysfunction in Lupus-Prone Mice-IL-6 as Mediator of Disease Initiation. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22052291. [PMID: 33669022 PMCID: PMC7956579 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22052291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2021] [Revised: 02/16/2021] [Accepted: 02/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease and patients are under an increased risk for cardiovascular (CV) events and mortality. The increased CV risk for patients with SLE seems to be caused by a premature and accelerated atherosclerosis, attributable to lupus-specific risk factors (i.e., increased systemic inflammation, altered immune status), apart from traditional CV risk factors. To date, there is no established experimental model to explore the pathogenesis of this increased CV risk in SLE patients. METHODS Here we investigated whether MRL-Faslpr mice, which develop an SLE-like phenotype, may serve as a model to study lupus-mediated vascular disease. Therefore, MRL-Faslpr, MRL-++, and previously generated Il6-/- MRL-Faslpr mice were used to evaluate vascular changes and possible mechanisms of vascular dysfunction and damage. RESULTS Contrary to MRL-++ control mice, lupus-prone MRL-Faslpr mice exhibited a pronounced vascular and perivascular leukocytic infiltration in various organs; expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the aorta and kidney was augmented; and intima-media thickness of the aorta was increased. IL-6 deficiency reversed these changes and restored aortic relaxation. CONCLUSION Our findings demonstrate that the MRL-Faslpr mouse model is an excellent tool to investigate vascular damage in SLE mice. Moreover, IL-6 promotes vascular inflammation and damage and could potentially be a therapeutic target for the treatment of accelerated arteriosclerosis in SLE.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paul Marczynski
- Department of Nephrology and Rheumatology, University Center of Autoimmunity, Johannes-Gutenberg University Mainz, 55131 Mainz, Germany; (P.M.); (M.M.); (D.K.); (T.M.); (S.B.); (A.S.)
| | - Myriam Meineck
- Department of Nephrology and Rheumatology, University Center of Autoimmunity, Johannes-Gutenberg University Mainz, 55131 Mainz, Germany; (P.M.); (M.M.); (D.K.); (T.M.); (S.B.); (A.S.)
| | - Ning Xia
- Institute of Pharmacology, Johannes-Gutenberg University Mainz, 55131 Mainz, Germany; (N.X.); (H.L.)
| | - Huige Li
- Institute of Pharmacology, Johannes-Gutenberg University Mainz, 55131 Mainz, Germany; (N.X.); (H.L.)
| | - Daniel Kraus
- Department of Nephrology and Rheumatology, University Center of Autoimmunity, Johannes-Gutenberg University Mainz, 55131 Mainz, Germany; (P.M.); (M.M.); (D.K.); (T.M.); (S.B.); (A.S.)
| | - Wilfried Roth
- Institute of Pathology, Medical Center of the Johannes-Gutenberg University Mainz, 55131 Mainz, Germany;
| | - Tamara Möckel
- Department of Nephrology and Rheumatology, University Center of Autoimmunity, Johannes-Gutenberg University Mainz, 55131 Mainz, Germany; (P.M.); (M.M.); (D.K.); (T.M.); (S.B.); (A.S.)
| | - Simone Boedecker
- Department of Nephrology and Rheumatology, University Center of Autoimmunity, Johannes-Gutenberg University Mainz, 55131 Mainz, Germany; (P.M.); (M.M.); (D.K.); (T.M.); (S.B.); (A.S.)
| | - Andreas Schwarting
- Department of Nephrology and Rheumatology, University Center of Autoimmunity, Johannes-Gutenberg University Mainz, 55131 Mainz, Germany; (P.M.); (M.M.); (D.K.); (T.M.); (S.B.); (A.S.)
| | - Julia Weinmann-Menke
- Department of Nephrology and Rheumatology, University Center of Autoimmunity, Johannes-Gutenberg University Mainz, 55131 Mainz, Germany; (P.M.); (M.M.); (D.K.); (T.M.); (S.B.); (A.S.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-6131-176774; Fax: +49-6131-17476774
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Azharudeen M, Thabah MM, Satheesh S, Negi VS. QT interval parameters, anti-Ro antibody status, and disease activity in systemic lupus erythematosus. J R Coll Physicians Edinb 2021; 50:380-386. [PMID: 33469612 DOI: 10.4997/jrcpe.2020.406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The QT interval a marker of ventricular depolarization and repolarization is reported to be prolonged in some proportion of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). We studied electrocardiographic (ECG) abnormalities, in particular QT interval and its relationship with anti-Ro antibodies, disease activity, and serum interleukin 1β (IL-1β), interleukin 6 (IL-6) in SLE. METHODS A 12-lead resting ECG was performed on 140 adult SLE patients fulflling SLICC/ACR classification criteria. All patients received hydroxychloroquine and prednisolone. Corrected QT (QTc) °440 milliseconds (ms) was defined as prolonged QTc. QT dispersion (QTd) °60 ms was defined as increased QTd. RESULTS Eighty-four patients had some form of ECG abnormality. Prolongation of QTc and QTd was present in 24 (17.1%) and 50 (35.7%) respectively. Anti-Ro/SSA antibodies were present in 63 (45%). Prolongation of QTc in anti-Ro positive versus anti-Ro negative was 17.5% and 17% respectively, p=0.98. Prolongation of QTd in anti-Ro-positive versus anti-Ro-negative was 32% and 39% respectively, p=0.37. Prolonged QTc was observed in 15% patients with SLEDAI ˛4 compared to 17.5% patients with SLEDAI °5, p=0.78. The median serum concentrations of IL-1β and IL-6 were similar in the groups with and without prolonged QTc, with and without prolonged QTd. On binary logistic regression analyses neither clinical nor laboratory factors were predictors of prolonged QTc. However, having valvular regurgitation and hypercholesterolemia was associated with significantly reduced odds of having prolonged QTd, adjusted OR 0.33 (CI 0.14-0.83), p=0.018 and 0.19 (CI 0.05-0.80), p=0.023 respectively. Those with high LDL cholesterol and hypertriglyceridemia had a significantly higher odds of having a normal QTd with adjusted OR of 4.34 (1.31-14.46) p=0.017and 5.59 (1.62-19.38) p=0.007respectively. CONCLUSION Though 17% and 35% SLE patients have QTc and QTd prolongation, association with anti-Ro antibodies or disease activity was absent. A large proportion has other asymptomatic ECG abnormalities that may reflect subclinical cardiac involvement.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Azharudeen
- Department of Medicine, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education & Research (JIPMER), Puducherry, India
| | - Molly Mary Thabah
- Department of Medicine, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education & Research (JIPMER, Puducherry, India 605006, ;
| | | | - Vir Singh Negi
- Department of Clinical Immunology, JIPMER, Puducherry, India
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Choi H, Uceda DE, Dey AK, Mehta NN. Application of Non-invasive Imaging in Inflammatory Disease Conditions to Evaluate Subclinical Coronary Artery Disease. Curr Rheumatol Rep 2019; 22:1. [PMID: 31832865 DOI: 10.1007/s11926-019-0875-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Traditional risk models, such as the Framingham risk score, fail to capture the increased cardiovascular disease risk seen in patients with chronic inflammatory diseases. This review will cover imaging modalities and their emerging applications in assessing subclinical cardiovascular disease for both research and clinical care in patients with chronic inflammatory diseases. RECENT FINDINGS Multiple imaging modalities have been studied to assess for subclinical cardiovascular disease via functional/physiologic, inflammatory, and anatomic assessment in patients with chronic inflammatory diseases. The use of imaging to evaluate subclinical cardiovascular disease in patients with chronic inflammatory diseases has the potential to capture early sub-clinical atherosclerosis, to improve risk stratification of future cardiovascular events, and to guide effective disease management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Harry Choi
- National Heart, Lung, Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Domingo E Uceda
- National Heart, Lung, Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Amit K Dey
- National Heart, Lung, Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Nehal N Mehta
- National Heart, Lung, Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Myocardial Perfusion Abnormalities in Young and Premenopausal Women with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, Detected with 99MTC MIBI Myocardial Perfusion Scintigraphy - Prevalence and Correlation with Proatherogenic Factors. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 39:79-92. [PMID: 30864359 DOI: 10.2478/prilozi-2018-0045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Atherosclerosis in young and premenopausal women with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is frequent, premature and progressive. Although asymptomatic or with atypical clinical presentation, the patients are at high risk of cardiac events. Aim of this study is to estimate the risk profile for atherogenesis and the prevalence of myocardial perfusion abnormalities with 99mTc myocardial perfusion scintigraphy (MPS) in young and premenopausal women. MATERIAL AND METHODS Sixty female patients, aged 30-72 years (divided into two subgroups - patients under 45 years of age and patients over 45 years), diagnosed with SLE for over of 5 years, in active phase of the disease were analyzed for disease activity scores (SLEDAI), the immunologic status of the disease (ANA and a-DNA antibodies in the serum), procoagulant tendency (antiphospholipid antibodies-APhL and lupus-anticoagulant-LAC), the activity of the inflammatory process (hsCRP), the anti-SLE therapeutic approach and the presence of traditional risk factors for atherosclerosis (BMI, smoking, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes, and familial history for the CAD). Using one-day Dipyridamol - Rest 99mTc SPECT Gated MPS SPECT the extent, severity and reversibility of myocardial perfusion abnormalities were estimated, along with summed scores at stress, rest and summed difference scores and left ventricle volumes and ejection fraction. RESULTS Abnormal MPS SPECT were detected in 27/60 or in 45% of patients, with one vessel affection of 66.7% (18/27pts) of LAD and 14.8% (4/27pts) o RCA and with two vessel disease of LAD/RCA in 2/27 pts (7.4%) and LAD/Cx in 3/27pts (11.1%). Myocardial perfusion abnormalities were equally prevalent in subgroups of patients younger than 45 years (44,4%) and in patients older than 45 years (45.5%) (ns). The subgroups did not differ significantly concerning the extent of perfusion abnormalities (9,8±3.2% of LV myocardial mass vs. 9,8±7.1%,ns), their severity (with predominance of mild perfusion defects, 48,6% vs. 51,3%,ns) and reversibility (reversible in 41.3% and 58.6%, ns). The differences between the summed scores of severity and the extent of ischemia in the two subgroups were statistically nonsignificant. Younger patients had significantly higher end-diastolic, end-systolic and stroke volumes during stress and rest conditions, compared to older patients (p<0,01) although there were no differences in systolic function, which was not affected in either of the groups as expressed threw ejection fraction. Although nonsignificant, younger patients had higher values of hsCRP and higher procoagulant activity (positive aPhL, LAC) while they were with more active disease activity, with higher SLEDAI score compared to older patients (p=0.028). Higher SLEDAI score and LV volumes, especially EDV at stress were identified as predictor of abnormal MPS in younger groups and more aggressive multidrug anti SLE treatment as predictor of normal MPS. CONCLUSION The prevalence and characteristics of myocardial perfusion abnormalities in young SLE are equal as the same in older SLE patients, which indicates the presence of premature, accelerated atherosclerosis in young cohort of patients with SLE. Younger SLE patients with pure disease control (higher SLEDAI score, less aggressive treatment, high hsCRP values and pronounced procoagulant tendency) should undergo screening for myocardial perfusion abnormalities s using 99mTc MIBI MPS).
Collapse
|
10
|
Abdelomnem SM, Egila SE, Fawzy RM, Mohamed MA, Abdelkader NA. Assessment of tendon involvement in chronic hemodialysis patients: an ultrasonographic study. EGYPTIAN RHEUMATOLOGY AND REHABILITATION 2019. [DOI: 10.4103/err.err_60_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
|
11
|
Abdel-Monem SM, Ganeb SS, Fawzy RM, Bendary AM, Elhawary ZN. Carotid artery atherosclerosis and ECG changes in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: relation to disease activity and severity. EGYPTIAN RHEUMATOLOGY AND REHABILITATION 2019. [DOI: 10.4103/err.err_56_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
|
12
|
Teixeira V, Tam LS. Novel Insights in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Atherosclerosis. Front Med (Lausanne) 2018; 4:262. [PMID: 29435447 PMCID: PMC5796914 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2017.00262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2017] [Accepted: 12/28/2017] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The systemic inflammatory nature of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is well patent not only in the diverse clinical manifestations of the disease but also in the increased risk of premature atherosclerosis and cardiovascular events (CVE), making SLE one of the most complex diseases to study and manage in clinical practice. Aim To travel from old aspects to modern insights on the physiopathology, new molecular biomarkers, imaging methods of atherosclerosis assessment, and the potential treatments of atherosclerosis in SLE. Methods We conducted a literature search using PubMed database and performed a critical review. Conclusion/discussion Several developments have taken place in the understanding of the relationship between SLE and premature atherosclerosis. Nevertheless, cardiovascular diseases are still the major cause of reduced life expectancy in SLE and the main cause of death. The lack of standardization methods for the imaging assessment of atherosclerosis in SLE and the multifactorial nature of the disease are well patriated in the difficulty of achieving consistent and reproducible results among studies that focus in cardiovascular risk assessment and prediction. A raising number of molecular biomarkers of atherosclerosis have been proposed, but the combination of several biomarkers and risk factors may better estimate cardiovascular disease risk. Moreover, the development of effective therapies to prevent progression of atherosclerosis and CVE shall address systemic inflammation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vítor Teixeira
- Rheumatology Department, Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Norte, EPE, Hospital de Santa Maria, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Lai-Shan Tam
- Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, The Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Sha Tin, Hong Kong
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Todolí-Parra JA, Tung-Chen Y, Micó L, Gutiérrez J, Hernández-Jaras J, Ruiz-Cerda JL. Lupus nephritis with preserved kidney function associated with poorer cardiovascular risk control: A call for more awareness. HIPERTENSION Y RIESGO VASCULAR 2018; 35:S1889-1837(17)30088-0. [PMID: 29396242 DOI: 10.1016/j.hipert.2017.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2017] [Revised: 10/25/2017] [Accepted: 11/03/2017] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the improvement in the prognosis of lupus nephritis (LN), the cardiovascular morbimortality remains high. The early recognition and remission of flares, while trying to avoid the metabolic adverse effects of medication, must be mandatory. AIM The aim of our study was to assess the cardiovascular (CV) risk profile in a cohort of lupus patients with preserved kidney function after a nephritis episode, compared to patients without a nephritis flare. METHODS 130 patients diagnosed of SLE (32 with previous nephritis flare and 98 without) were studied in order to evaluate the CV risk profile, despite the preserved kidney function. RESULTS The most prevalent risk factors were sedentary lifestyle (57.6%), overweight/obesity (38.3%) and dyslipidemia (36%), followed by smoking (32%) and hypertension (16%). Though more than a half (53.1%) was taking CV medication, a high percentage did not reach a therapeutic target value, especially regarding obesity (11.5%) and cholesterol levels (LDL-C of 16%). The prevalence of dyslipidemia (53.1% vs 30.6%), smoking (46.6% vs 27.5%), left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) (21.4% vs 6.4%) and lower HDL-C (48.6mg/dL vs 55.4mg/dL) were significantly different in the group with previous nephritis flare. Moreover, young patients with lupus nephritis, received more pulses of corticosteroids and cyclophosphamide, had higher prevalence of hypertension, LVH, higher proteinuria, hospital admissions and waist circumference, constituting the subgroup of patients with greater aggregation of CV risk factors. CONCLUSIONS Patients with previous nephritis flare showed a poor control of CV risk factors despite the preserved renal function, these patients would require a closer therapeutic management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J A Todolí-Parra
- Department of Internal Medicine, University and Polytechnic Hospital La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - Y Tung-Chen
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University Hospital La Paz, Madrid, Spain.
| | - L Micó
- Department of Internal Medicine, University and Polytechnic Hospital La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - J Gutiérrez
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Santa Bárbara, Soria, Spain
| | - J Hernández-Jaras
- Department of Nephrology, University and Polytechnic Hospital La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - J L Ruiz-Cerda
- Department of Urology, University and Polytechnic Hospital of La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Giannelou M, Mavragani CP. Cardiovascular disease in systemic lupus erythematosus: A comprehensive update. J Autoimmun 2017; 82:1-12. [PMID: 28606749 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2017.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2017] [Accepted: 05/31/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Heightened rates of both cardiovascular (CV) events and subclinical atherosclerosis, documented by imaging and vascular function techniques are well established in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). While traditional CV factors such as smoking, dyslipidemia, diabetes mellitus (DM), hypertension, central obesity and hyperhomocysteinemia have been reported to be prevalent in lupus patients, they do not fully explain the high rates of ischemic events so far reported, implying that other factors inherent to disease itself could account for the enhanced risk, including disease duration, activity and chronicity, psychosocial factors, medications, genetic variants and altered immunological mechanisms. Though the exact pathogenesis of atherosclerosis in the setting of lupus remains ill defined, an imbalance between endothelial damage and atheroprotection seems to be a central event. Insults leading to endothelial damage in the setting of lupus include oxidized low density lipoprotein (oxLDL), autoantibodies against endothelial cells and phospholipids, type I interferons (IFN) and neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) directly or through activation of type I IFN pathway. Increased oxidative stress, reduced levels of the normally antioxidant high density lipoprotein (HDL), increased levels of proinflammatory HDL (piHDL) and reduced paraoxonase activity have been related to increased oxLDL levels. On the other hand, impaired atheroprotective mechanisms in lupus include decreased capacity of endothelial repair-partly mediated by type I IFN- and dampened production of atheroprotective autoantibodies. In the present review, traditional and disease related risk factors for CV disease (CVD) in the setting of chronic autoimmune disorders with special focus on SLE will be discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mayra Giannelou
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Greece; Department of Rheumatology, General Hospital of Athens "G. Gennimatas", Greece
| | - Clio P Mavragani
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Greece; Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Greece; Joint Academic Rheumatology Program, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Medicine, Athens, Greece.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Moroni L, Selmi C, Angelini C, Meroni PL. Evaluation of Endothelial Function by Flow-Mediated Dilation: a Comprehensive Review in Rheumatic Disease. Arch Immunol Ther Exp (Warsz) 2017; 65:463-475. [DOI: 10.1007/s00005-017-0465-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2016] [Accepted: 03/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
|
16
|
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease confers significant morbidity and mortality in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and cannot be fully explained by traditional cardiovascular risk factors. Recent immunologic discoveries have outlined putative pathways in SLE that may also accelerate the development of atherosclerosis. RECENT FINDINGS Aberrant innate and adaptive immune responses implicated in lupus pathogenesis may also contribute to the development of accelerated atherosclerosis in these patients. Defective apoptosis, abnormal lipoprotein function, autoantibodies, aberrant neutrophil responses, and a dysregulated type I interferon pathway likely contribute to endothelial dysfunction. SLE macrophages have an inflammatory phenotype that may drive progression of plaque. SUMMARY Recent discoveries have placed increased emphasis on the immunology of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Understanding the factors that drive the increased risk for cardiovascular disease in SLE patients may provide selective therapeutic targets for reducing inflammation and improving outcomes in atherosclerosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura B. Lewandowski
- Systemic Autoimmunity Branch, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Mariana J. Kaplan
- Systemic Autoimmunity Branch, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892
| |
Collapse
|