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Brad GF, Nicoară DM, Scutca AC, Bugi MA, Asproniu R, Olariu LG, Jugănaru I, Cristun LI, Mărginean O. Exploring Chronic Hypocalcemia: Insights into Autoimmune Polyglandular Syndrome Type 1-A Case Study and Literature Review. J Clin Med 2024; 13:2368. [PMID: 38673639 PMCID: PMC11051075 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13082368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2024] [Revised: 04/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Hypocalcemia is a common occurrence in pediatric patients, attributed to various causes and presenting with diverse clinical manifestations. A prompt evaluation is necessary to determine its underlying cause, whether it presents acutely or chronically, and to tailor treatment based on its severity. Among the potential causes of chronic hypocalcemia, primary hypoparathyroidism stands out. The case of a seven-year-old male patient with hypocalcemia reported in this article serves as an illustration, wherein targeted next-generation sequencing revealed a homozygous p.R257X mutation in the AIRE gene, indicative of autoimmune polyendocrine syndrome type 1 (APS-1). It poses challenges due to its multisystemic nature and involvement of specific autoantibodies, often leading to underdiagnosis, owing to its rarity, varied manifestations, and incomplete penetrance. A comprehensive review of the APS-1 literature was conducted to provide insights into the clinical manifestations, genetic spectrum, potential immunological mechanisms, and current medical strategies. Additionally, the recognition of AIRE gene mutations is crucial for facilitating genetic diagnosis, prognosis, and potential treatment strategies for APS-1. The management of such cases involves individualized approaches to treatment, regular monitoring, medication adjustments, and the early identification of associated conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgiana-Flavia Brad
- Department XI Pediatrics, Discipline I Pediatrics, ‘Victor Babes’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (G.-F.B.); (A.-C.S.); (R.A.); (L.-G.O.); (I.J.); (O.M.)
- 1st Department of Pediatrics, Children’s Emergency Hospital ‘Louis Turcanu’, 300011 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Delia-Maria Nicoară
- Department XI Pediatrics, Discipline I Pediatrics, ‘Victor Babes’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (G.-F.B.); (A.-C.S.); (R.A.); (L.-G.O.); (I.J.); (O.M.)
| | - Alexandra-Cristina Scutca
- Department XI Pediatrics, Discipline I Pediatrics, ‘Victor Babes’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (G.-F.B.); (A.-C.S.); (R.A.); (L.-G.O.); (I.J.); (O.M.)
- 1st Department of Pediatrics, Children’s Emergency Hospital ‘Louis Turcanu’, 300011 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Meda-Ada Bugi
- 1st Department of Pediatrics, Children’s Emergency Hospital ‘Louis Turcanu’, 300011 Timisoara, Romania;
- Research Center for Disturbances of Growth and Development in Children BELIVE, ‘Victor Babes’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Raluca Asproniu
- Department XI Pediatrics, Discipline I Pediatrics, ‘Victor Babes’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (G.-F.B.); (A.-C.S.); (R.A.); (L.-G.O.); (I.J.); (O.M.)
- 1st Department of Pediatrics, Children’s Emergency Hospital ‘Louis Turcanu’, 300011 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Laura-Gratiela Olariu
- Department XI Pediatrics, Discipline I Pediatrics, ‘Victor Babes’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (G.-F.B.); (A.-C.S.); (R.A.); (L.-G.O.); (I.J.); (O.M.)
- 1st Department of Pediatrics, Children’s Emergency Hospital ‘Louis Turcanu’, 300011 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Iulius Jugănaru
- Department XI Pediatrics, Discipline I Pediatrics, ‘Victor Babes’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (G.-F.B.); (A.-C.S.); (R.A.); (L.-G.O.); (I.J.); (O.M.)
- 1st Department of Pediatrics, Children’s Emergency Hospital ‘Louis Turcanu’, 300011 Timisoara, Romania;
- Research Center for Disturbances of Growth and Development in Children BELIVE, ‘Victor Babes’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Lucian-Ioan Cristun
- Ph.D. School Department, ‘Victor Babes’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Otilia Mărginean
- Department XI Pediatrics, Discipline I Pediatrics, ‘Victor Babes’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (G.-F.B.); (A.-C.S.); (R.A.); (L.-G.O.); (I.J.); (O.M.)
- 1st Department of Pediatrics, Children’s Emergency Hospital ‘Louis Turcanu’, 300011 Timisoara, Romania;
- Research Center for Disturbances of Growth and Development in Children BELIVE, ‘Victor Babes’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
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Wei X, Zhu T, Wang L, Sui R. Leber congenital amaurosis as the initial and essential manifestation in a Chinese patient with autoimmune polyglandular syndrome Type 1. Doc Ophthalmol 2023; 147:225-232. [PMID: 37715919 DOI: 10.1007/s10633-023-09953-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/18/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Autoimmune polyglandular syndrome Type 1 (APS-1) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder caused by defects in the autoimmune regulator (AIRE) gene. Patients are generally diagnosed at ages between five and fifteen years when they exhibit three or more manifestations, most typically mucocutaneous candidiasis, autoimmune Addison's disease, and hypoparathyroidism. Our study aims to report the first case of a Chinese APS-1 patient, presented with LCA as the initial and essential clinical feature of this rare syndrome. METHODS Detailed medical and family history were recorded for the patient. Also, the comprehensive ophthalmological examinations were conducted. Whole exome sequencing (WES) was applied to screen pathogenic variants. Sanger sequencing validation and segregation analysis were further performed for confirmation. RESULTS A 3-year-old boy with severely impaired vision and initially referred as LCA. However, with a detailed history review, oral candidiasis, dental enamel hypoplasia, and nail candida infection were revealed. Moreover, genetic analysis revealed the homozygous c.769C>T (p.R257X) in AIRE gene (NM_000383.3) as the causative variant. CONCLUSION We presented one case diagnosed with APS-1 based on clinical characteristics and genetic analysis. Our study demonstrated that LCA could serve as a warning sign for APS-1 and a potential trigger of early screening, which might prevent life-threatening complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xing Wei
- Department of Ophthalmology, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, No. 1, Shuai Fu Yuan, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Tian Zhu
- Department of Ophthalmology, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, No. 1, Shuai Fu Yuan, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Lei Wang
- Beijing Mei'ermu Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Ruifang Sui
- Department of Ophthalmology, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, No. 1, Shuai Fu Yuan, Beijing, 100730, China.
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Xie VX, File W, Wiedl C, Ward BR, Saldaña BD, Keller MD, Kornbluh AB. Myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody-associated disease as a novel presentation of central nervous system autoimmunity in a pediatric patient with Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome. ALLERGY, ASTHMA, AND CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE CANADIAN SOCIETY OF ALLERGY AND CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY 2023; 19:68. [PMID: 37550789 PMCID: PMC10408201 DOI: 10.1186/s13223-023-00827-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome (WAS) is an X-linked primary immunodeficiency caused by mutations in the WAS gene that leads to increased susceptibility to infections, thrombocytopenia, eczema, malignancies, and autoimmunity. Central nervous system (CNS) autoimmune manifestations are uncommon. CASE PRESENTATION We describe the case of a five-year-old boy with refractory thrombocytopenia and iron deficiency anemia who developed relapsing bilateral optic neuritis. Myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody (MOG-IgG) via serum fluorescence-activated cell sorting assay was positive (titer 1:100), confirming a diagnosis of myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody-associated disease (MOGAD). At age six, molecular panel testing for genes associated with primary immunodeficiency identified a missense WAS gene variant. He was subsequently found to have decreased WAS protein expression, consistent with a diagnosis of WAS. CONCLUSIONS This case expands the reported spectrum of CNS autoimmunity associated with WAS and may help to inform long-term therapeutic options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivien X Xie
- Department of Neurology, District of Columbia, Children's National Hospital, 111 Michigan Ave NW, Washington, 20010, USA.
| | - Wilson File
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Eastern Virginia Medical School and Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters, Norfolk, VG, USA
| | - Christina Wiedl
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, District of Columbia, Children's National Hospital, Washington, USA
| | - Brant R Ward
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Children's Hospital of Richmond, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Blachy Dávila Saldaña
- Division of Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Michael D Keller
- Center for Cancer and Immunology Research, Division of Allergy and Immunology, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Alexandra B Kornbluh
- Department of Neurology, District of Columbia, Children's National Hospital, 111 Michigan Ave NW, Washington, 20010, USA
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Aytekin ES, Cagdas D. APECED and the place of AIRE in the puzzle of the immune network associated with autoimmunity. Scand J Immunol 2023; 98:e13299. [PMID: 38441333 DOI: 10.1111/sji.13299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
In the last 20 years, discoveries about the autoimmune regulator (AIRE) protein and its critical role in immune tolerance have provided fundamental insights into understanding the molecular basis of autoimmunity. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the effect of AIRE on immunological tolerance and the characteristics of autoimmune diseases in Autoimmune Polyendocrinopathy-Candidiasis-Ectodermal Dystrophy (APECED), which is caused by biallelic AIRE mutations. A better understanding of the immunological mechanisms of AIRE deficiency may enlighten immune tolerance mechanisms and new diagnostic and treatment strategies for autoimmune diseases. Considering that not all clinical features of APECED are present in a given follow-up period, the diagnosis is not easy in a patient at the first visit. Longer follow-up and a multidisciplinary approach are essential for diagnosis. It is challenging to prevent endocrine and other organ damage compared with other diseases associated with multiple autoimmunities, such as FOXP3, LRBA, and CTLA4 deficiencies. Unfortunately, no curative therapy like haematopoietic stem cell transplantation or specific immunomodulation is present that is successful in the treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elif Soyak Aytekin
- Pediatric Allergy and Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, SBU Dr. Sami Ulus Children Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Deniz Cagdas
- Division of Pediatric Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, Ihsan Dogramaci Children`s Hospital, Institute of Child Health, Hacettepe University Medical School, Ankara, Turkey
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Halabi I, Barohom MN, Peleg S, Trougouboff P, Elias-Assad G, Agbaria R, Tenenbaum-Rakover Y. Case Report: Severe Hypocalcemic Episodes Due to Autoimmune Enteropathy. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:645279. [PMID: 34194389 PMCID: PMC8237854 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.645279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune polyendocrinopathy-candidiasis-ectodermal dystrophy (APECED) is a rare monogenic disorder, associated with endocrine deficiencies and non-endocrine involvement. Gastrointestinal (GI) manifestations appear in approximately 25% of patients and are the presenting symptom in about 10% of them. Limited awareness among pediatricians of autoimmune enteropathy (AIE) caused by destruction of the gut endocrine cells in APECED patients delays diagnosis and appropriate therapy. We describe an 18-year-old female presenting at the age of 6.10 years with hypoparathyroidism, oral candidiasis and vitiligo. The clinical diagnosis of APECED was confirmed by sequencing the autoimmune regulator-encoding (AIRE) gene. Several characteristics of the disease-Hashimoto's thyroiditis, Addison's disease, diabetes mellitus type 1 and primary ovarian insufficiency-developed over the years. She had recurrent episodes of severe intractable hypocalcemia. Extensive GI investigations for possible malabsorption, including laboratory analyses, imaging and endoscopy with biopsies were unremarkable. Revision of the biopsies and chromogranin A (CgA) immunostaining demonstrated complete loss of enteroendocrine cells in the duodenum and small intestine, confirming the diagnosis of AIE. Management of hypocalcemia was challenging. Only intravenous calcitriol maintained calcium in the normal range. Between hypocalcemic episodes, the proband maintained normal calcium levels, suggesting a fluctuating disease course. Repeated intestinal biopsy revealed positive intestinal CgA immunostaining. The attribution of severe hypocalcemic episodes to AIE emphasizes the need for increased awareness of this unique presentation of APECED. The fluctuating disease course and repeated intestinal biopsy showing positive CgA immunostaining support a reversible effect of GI involvement. CgA immunostaining is indicated in patients with APECED for whom all other investigations have failed to reveal an explanation for the malabsorption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inbal Halabi
- Pediatric Endocrine Institute, Ha’Emek Medical Center, Afula, Israel
- Pediatric Health Center, Clalit Health Services, Naharia, Israel
| | - Marie Noufi Barohom
- Pediatric Endocrine Institute, Ha’Emek Medical Center, Afula, Israel
- Pediatric Health Center, Clalit Health Services, Naharia, Israel
- Faculty of Medicine, Bar Ilan University, Safed, Israel
| | - Sarit Peleg
- Pediatric Health Center, Clalit Health Services, Hadera, Israel
| | - Phillippe Trougouboff
- Tissue Diagnosis and Cancer Research Department, Ha’Emek Medical Center, Afula, Israel
| | - Ghadir Elias-Assad
- Pediatric Endocrine Institute, Ha’Emek Medical Center, Afula, Israel
- The Ruth & Bruce Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion, Haifa, Israel
| | - Rhania Agbaria
- Pediatric Gastroenterology Unit, Ha’Emek Medical Center, Afula, Israel
| | - Yardena Tenenbaum-Rakover
- Pediatric Endocrine Institute, Ha’Emek Medical Center, Afula, Israel
- The Ruth & Bruce Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion, Haifa, Israel
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