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Yoon MK, Lu JE. An Evidence-Based Approach to Diagnosing Patients Presenting With Orbital Inflammatory Syndromes (An American Ophthalmological Society Thesis). Am J Ophthalmol 2024; 266:156-181. [PMID: 38763497 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajo.2024.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2023] [Revised: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE The initial management of patients presenting with orbital inflammatory syndromes varies-with some pursuing a diagnostic workup while others treat without any testing. The evidence behind this rationale is limited. A review of patients with orbital inflammation is performed with an analysis of diagnostic testing to develop a workflow for such patients. DESIGN A retrospective review of patients presenting with acute orbital inflammation at a single institution from 2011 to 2020 was conducted. METHODS Orbital imaging was required for inclusion. Patients with high suspicion of neoplasm, bacterial infection, vascular malformation, or thyroid eye disease were excluded. A review of presenting clinical findings, laboratory workup, orbital imaging, and biopsy were performed. Statistical analysis was performed identifying statistically significant diagnostic and treatment maneuvers. RESULTS In total, 172 patients met inclusion criteria (66% female, mean age 46 years). The primary clinical presentation was myositis, dacryoadenitis, and infiltrative in 67, 73, and 32 patients (39.0%, 43.0%, 18.6%, respectively). Laboratory studies were conducted in 145 (84%) while biopsy was performed in 55 (32%). Specific orbital inflammation (SOI) was diagnosed in 29 (16.9%) with the most frequent diagnoses being sarcoidosis, IgG4-related disease, inflammatory bowel disease, and systemic lupus erythematosus. The majority (147, 85.5%) was initially treated with steroids, but steroid-sparing agent use was statistically higher in patients with SOI. CONCLUSIONS In patients presenting with orbital inflammatory syndromes, distinguishing myositis, dacryoadenitis, and infiltrative disease has workup and differential diagnosis impacts. Because SOI is relatively common, sequelae of SOI, and potential steroid-sparing therapy needs, diagnosis via an evidence-based systemic approach is critical. NOTE: Publication of this article is sponsored by the American Ophthalmological Society.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael K Yoon
- From the Ophthalmic Plastic Surgery, Mass Eye and Ear (MKY), Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School (MKY), Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
| | - Jonathan E Lu
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California-San Francisco (JEL), San Francisco, California, USA
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Berneshawi AR, Seyedmadani K, Goel R, Anderson MR, Tyson TL, Akay YM, Akay M, Leung LSB, Stone LS. Oculometric biomarkers of visuomotor deficits in clinically asymptomatic patients with systemic lupus erythematosus undergoing long-term hydroxychloroquine treatment. FRONTIERS IN OPHTHALMOLOGY 2024; 4:1354892. [PMID: 39104603 PMCID: PMC11298511 DOI: 10.3389/fopht.2024.1354892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 08/07/2024]
Abstract
Introduction This study examines a set of oculomotor measurements, or "oculometric" biomarkers, as potential early indicators of visual and visuomotor deficits due to retinal toxicity in asymptomatic Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) patients on long-term hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) treatment. The aim is to identify subclinical functional impairments that are otherwise undetectable by standard clinical tests and to link them to structural retinal changes. Methods We measured oculomotor responses in a cohort of SLE patients on chronic HCQ therapy using a previously established behavioral task and analysis technique. We also examined the relationship between oculometrics, OCT measures of retinal thickness, and standard clinical perimetry measures of visual function in our patient group using Bivariate Pearson Correlation and a Linear Mixed-Effects Model (LMM). Results Significant visual and visuomotor deficits were found in 12 asymptomatic SLE patients on long-term HCQ therapy compared to a cohort of 17 age-matched healthy controls. Notably, six oculometrics were significantly different. The median initial pursuit acceleration was 22%, steady-state pursuit gain 16%, proportion smooth 7%, and target speed responsiveness 31% lower, while catch-up saccade amplitude was 46% and fixation error 46% larger. Excluding the two patients with diagnosed mild toxicity, four oculometrics, all but fixation error and proportion smooth, remained significantly impaired compared to controls. Across our population of 12 patients (24 retinae), we found that pursuit latency, initial acceleration, steady-state gain, and fixation error were linearly related to retinal thickness even when age was accounted for, while standard measures of clinical function (Mean Deviation and Pattern Standard Deviation) were not. Discussion Our data show that specific oculometrics are sensitive early biomarkers of functional deficits in SLE patients on HCQ that could be harnessed to assist in the early detection of HCQ-induced retinal toxicity and other visual pathologies, potentially providing early diagnostic value beyond standard visual field and OCT evaluations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew R. Berneshawi
- Ophthalmology Department, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Kimia Seyedmadani
- Research Operations and Integration Laboratory, Johnson Space Center, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Houston, TX, United States
- Biomedical Engineering Department, University of Houston, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Rahul Goel
- San Jose State University Foundation, San Jose, CA, United States
- Human Systems Integration Division, Ames Research Center, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Moffett Field, CA, United States
| | - Mark R. Anderson
- Human Systems Integration Division, Ames Research Center, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Moffett Field, CA, United States
- Arctic Slope Regional Corporation (ASRC) Federal Data Solutions, Moffett Field, CA, United States
| | - Terence L. Tyson
- Human Systems Integration Division, Ames Research Center, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Moffett Field, CA, United States
| | - Yasmin M. Akay
- Biomedical Engineering Department, University of Houston, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Metin Akay
- Biomedical Engineering Department, University of Houston, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Loh-Shan B. Leung
- Ophthalmology Department, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Leland S. Stone
- Human Systems Integration Division, Ames Research Center, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Moffett Field, CA, United States
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Musa M, Chukwuyem E, Ojo OM, Topah EK, Spadea L, Salati C, Gagliano C, Zeppieri M. Unveiling Ocular Manifestations in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. J Clin Med 2024; 13:1047. [PMID: 38398361 PMCID: PMC10889738 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13041047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is a complex autoimmune disorder characterized by immune dysregulation and multi-organ involvement. In this concise brief review, we highlight key insights into Ocular Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), an intricate autoimmune disorder with diverse organ involvement. Emphasizing the formation of autoantibodies and immune complex deposition, we delve into the inflammation and damage affecting ocular structures. Clinical presentations, ranging from mild dry eye syndrome to severe conditions like retinal vasculitis, necessitate a comprehensive diagnostic approach, including clinical exams, serological testing, and imaging studies. Differential diagnosis involves distinguishing SLE-related ocular manifestations from other autoimmune and non-inflammatory ocular conditions. The multidisciplinary management approach, involving rheumatologists, ophthalmologists, and immunologists, tailors treatment based on ocular involvement severity, encompassing corticosteroids, immunosuppressive agents, and biologics. Follow-up is crucial for monitoring disease progression and treatment response. Future perspectives revolve around advancing molecular understanding, refining diagnostic tools, and exploring targeted therapies. Novel research areas include genetic factors, microbiome composition, and biotechnology for tailored and effective SLE ocular treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mutali Musa
- Department of Optometry, University of Benin, Benin City 300238, Nigeria;
- Centre for Sight Africa, Onitsha 434112, Nigeria
| | | | - Oluwasola Michael Ojo
- School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of Ilorin, Ilorin 240003, Nigeria
| | - Efioshiomoshi Kings Topah
- Department of Optometry, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Bayero University, Kano 700006, Nigeria
| | - Leopoldo Spadea
- Eye Clinic, Policlinico Umberto I, “Sapienza” University of Rome, 00142 Rome, Italy
| | - Carlo Salati
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Caterina Gagliano
- Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Enna “Kore”, Piazza Dell’Università, 94100 Enna, Italy
- Eye Clinic, Catania University San Marco Hospital, Viale Carlo Azeglio Ciampi, 95121 Catania, Italy
| | - Marco Zeppieri
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy
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Shuhardi SA, Said MSM, Kew TY, Ramli R. Recurrent Temporal Infections: The Link to Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF CASE REPORTS 2023; 24:e942163. [PMID: 38155491 PMCID: PMC10763645 DOI: 10.12659/ajcr.942163] [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: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease with diverse manifestations. The involvement of the musculoskeletal system is very common, and infection is one of the manifestations, which can involve any part of the body. We report a case of a middle-aged woman with recurrent episodes of infection of her left temple. CASE REPORT A 51-year old woman was referred to our clinic following failures to eradicate infection on her left temple for 9 months. Examination revealed facial asymmetry, with diffuse non-tender swelling involving her left temple area, which extended to her cheek. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed a periosteal reaction of the zygomatic bone. Left temporalis muscle thickening and residual osteomyelitis of the zygomatic bone were also shown by MRI. In view of the unresolved infection with incision and drainage and antibiotics, further blood investigations led to the discovery of SLE. The antinuclear antibody and anti-double-stranded DNA were positive. In addition, low nephelometry markers, C3 (26.7 mg/dL) and C4 (8.24 mg/dL), were observed. This patient was treated with 200 mg of oral hydrochloroquine once daily and 5 mg of oral prednisolone once daily. After 6 months of treatment, the infection subsided, and the structures involved showed remarkable healing. The patient is still taking the same dose and frequency of both drugs at the present time. CONCLUSIONS Temporalis pyomyositis and osteomyelitis of the zygomatic bone could be manifestation of SLE disease; however, the involvement of infection cannot be ruled out.
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Affiliation(s)
- Syafiqah Aina Shuhardi
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Hospital Canselor Tuanku Muhriz, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Shahrir Mohamed Said
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Hospital Canselor Tuanku Muhriz, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Thean Yean Kew
- Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, Hospital Canselor Tuanku Muhriz, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Roszalina Ramli
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Hospital Canselor Tuanku Muhriz, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Faculty of Dentistry, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Keene KR, Kan HE, van der Meeren S, Verbist BM, Tannemaat MR, Beenakker JM, Verschuuren JJ. Clinical and imaging clues to the diagnosis and follow-up of ptosis and ophthalmoparesis. J Cachexia Sarcopenia Muscle 2022; 13:2820-2834. [PMID: 36172973 PMCID: PMC9745561 DOI: 10.1002/jcsm.13089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Ophthalmoparesis and ptosis can be caused by a wide range of rare or more prevalent diseases, several of which can be successfully treated. In this review, we provide clues to aid in the diagnosis of these diseases, based on the clinical symptoms, the involvement pattern and imaging features of extra-ocular muscles (EOM). Dysfunction of EOM including the levator palpebrae can be due to muscle weakness, anatomical restrictions or pathology affecting the innervation. A comprehensive literature review was performed to find clinical and imaging clues for the diagnosis and follow-up of ptosis and ophthalmoparesis. We used five patterns as a framework for differential diagnostic reasoning and for pattern recognition in symptomatology, EOM involvement and imaging results of individual patients. The five patterns were characterized by the presence of combination of ptosis, ophthalmoparesis, diplopia, pain, proptosis, nystagmus, extra-orbital symptoms, symmetry or fluctuations in symptoms. Each pattern was linked to anatomical locations and either hereditary or acquired diseases. Hereditary muscle diseases often lead to ophthalmoparesis without diplopia as a predominant feature, while in acquired eye muscle diseases ophthalmoparesis is often asymmetrical and can be accompanied by proptosis and pain. Fluctuation is a hallmark of an acquired synaptic disease like myasthenia gravis. Nystagmus is indicative of a central nervous system lesion. Second, specific EOM involvement patterns can also provide valuable diagnostic clues. In hereditary muscle diseases like chronic progressive external ophthalmoplegia (CPEO) and oculo-pharyngeal muscular dystrophy (OPMD) the superior rectus is often involved. In neuropathic disease, the pattern of involvement of the EOM can be linked to specific cranial nerves. In myasthenia gravis this pattern is variable within patients over time. Lastly, orbital imaging can aid in the diagnosis. Fat replacement of the EOM is commonly observed in hereditary myopathic diseases, such as CPEO. In contrast, inflammation and volume increases are often observed in acquired muscle diseases such as Graves' orbitopathy. In diseases with ophthalmoparesis and ptosis specific patterns of clinical symptoms, the EOM involvement pattern and orbital imaging provide valuable information for diagnosis and could prove valuable in the follow-up of disease progression and the understanding of disease pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin R. Keene
- CJ Gorter MRI Center, Department of RadiologyLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
- Department of NeurologyLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
| | - Hermien E. Kan
- CJ Gorter MRI Center, Department of RadiologyLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
- Duchenne CenterThe Netherlands
| | - Stijn van der Meeren
- Department of OphthalmologyLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
- Orbital Center, Department of OphthalmologyAmsterdam University Medical CentersAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Berit M. Verbist
- Department of RadiologyLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
| | | | - Jan‐Willem M. Beenakker
- CJ Gorter MRI Center, Department of RadiologyLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
- Department of OphthalmologyLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
- Department of Radiation OncologyLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
| | - Jan J.G.M. Verschuuren
- Department of NeurologyLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
- Duchenne CenterThe Netherlands
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Understanding Ocular Findings and Manifestations of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: Update Review of the Literature. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232012264. [PMID: 36293119 PMCID: PMC9603180 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232012264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic multisystem autoimmune disease. Up to one-third of patients suffering from SLE have various ocular manifestations. The ocular findings may represent the initial manifestation of the systemic disease and may lead to severe ocular complications, and even loss of vision. Ocular manifestations are often associated with degree of systemic inflammation, but also can precede the occurrence of systemic symptoms. Early diagnosis and adequate management of patients with SLE are crucial and require cooperation between various specialists. Proper preparation of ophthalmologists can help to differentiate between complication of SLE and other ocular disorders. New therapies for SLE are promising for potential benefits, however, ocular side effects are still unknown.
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Nieto-Aristizábal I, Mera JJ, Giraldo JD, Lopez-Arevalo H, Tobón GJ. From ocular immune privilege to primary autoimmune diseases of the eye. Autoimmun Rev 2022; 21:103122. [DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2022.103122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Ang T, Juniat V, Selva D. Autoimmune markers in screening for orbital inflammatory disease. Eye (Lond) 2022; 37:1088-1093. [PMID: 35440697 PMCID: PMC10102185 DOI: 10.1038/s41433-022-02068-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Revised: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Immunogenic causes of inflammation may be difficult to differentiate in the work-up of orbital inflammatory disease. The study aims to investigate the utility of autoimmune markers in the screening for orbital inflammation. Markers studied included angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), antinuclear antibody (ANA), anti-neutrophilic cytoplasmic autoantibodies (ANCA), extractable nuclear antigen (ENA), anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (Anti-CCP) and anti-double stranded DNA antibody (Anti-dsDNA antibody). METHODS A retrospective single-centre study of consecutive patients with non-infective orbital inflammation screened for autoimmune markers at presentation. Serology was interpreted alongside clinical course and other investigations (e.g. radiographic features and histopathology). Tabulated data and Pearson's Chi-square allowed analysis of trends between serology, diagnosis and the decision to biopsy. RESULTS 79 patients, between 1999 and 2021, were included (50 females, mean age was 50.4 ± 17.4 years). 28 (34.6%) patients had specific orbital inflammation and 53 (65.4%) patients had non-specific orbital inflammation (NSOI). Of the 12 patients with positive serology and a specific diagnosis, only 5 (41.7%) patients had concordant serological results. There was no association between serology results and the patient undergoing biopsy (P = 0.651). Serology was unable to exclude nor differentiate NSOI from other specific conditions and ANA had limited discriminatory value between specific conditions and NSOI. CONCLUSION Serological testing alone may not provide a clear direction for further investigation of orbital inflammation and a biopsy may occur independently of the serological results. The value of autoimmune markers may lie in subsequent follow-up as patients may develop suggestive symptoms after an indeterminate positive result or initially seronegative disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Terence Ang
- Discipline of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia.
| | - Valerie Juniat
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Dinesh Selva
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, SA, Australia
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Paraskevi VV, Aliki VI, Antigone P, Zoi T, Anastasia ZK, Alexandros DA. Orbital myositis in systemic lupus erythematosus: a case-based review. Rheumatol Int 2022; 42:1453-1460. [PMID: 35441316 DOI: 10.1007/s00296-022-05114-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Ocular complications occur in up to one-third of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Among them, orbital myositis (OM) is considered a rare manifestation that affects the extraocular muscles and causes pain and restriction with eye movement. We report a case of OM in a 48-year-old female with SLE and secondary Sjogren's Syndrome, who presented headache, periorbital edema, and painful ocular movements in both eyes, with no other systemic manifestations. An orbital magnetic resonance image revealed thickening of the right medial rectus and left lateral rectus muscles. Laboratory tests were normal and there was no further disease activity. The patient was treated with prednisone 1 mg/Kg/day with a resolution of symptoms. We found 13 additional cases of OM from our literature review (11 SLE patients and 2 with discoid lupus erythematosus). There was a female predominance in these cases with a mean age of 43.6 years (SD ± 16.9). Their main clinical features included eye pain, swelling, proptosis, diplopia, and limitations in extraocular muscles, while in most of them, there was no other active systemic manifestation. Treatment with steroids led to the complete resolution of symptoms in most of these patients. The available evidence suggests that it is essential to have a high index of suspicion for OM in SLE patients even when there is no systemic disease activity so that proper treatment is initiated early.
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Affiliation(s)
- Voulgari V Paraskevi
- Department of Rheumatology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ioannina, 45110, Ioannina, Greece.
| | - Venetsanopoulou I Aliki
- Department of Rheumatology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ioannina, 45110, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Pieta Antigone
- Department of Rheumatology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ioannina, 45110, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Tziortzioti Zoi
- Department of Rheumatology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ioannina, 45110, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Zikou K Anastasia
- Department of Radiology, Medical School, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Drosos A Alexandros
- Department of Rheumatology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ioannina, 45110, Ioannina, Greece
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Affiliation(s)
- Otto J Hernandez Fustes
- Neurology Service, Brasil Hospital Complex of Clinics at Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, PR, Brazil
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review aims to bring together recent advances in basic, translational and clinical research on the pathogenesis and treatment of orbital inflammatory conditions. RECENT FINDINGS Basic science studies provide mechanistic insights into why the orbit is targeted for inflammation by autoimmune inflammatory disorders. Using Graves' disease as a test case reveals that endocrine pathways, such as the TSH and IGF1 receptor pathways play important roles in stimulating orbital inflammation. Furthermore, orbital tissues contain high concentrations of retinoids - byproducts of the visual pathway that diffuse across the sclera and can activate de novo transcription of inflammatory cytokines. Such cytokine expression places the orbit in a hyper-inflammatory 'resting' state, prone to respond to any additional systemic or local pro-inflammatory signals. The HIF2A--LOX pathway appears important for orbital tissue fibrosis. Lastly, bench-to-bedside studies of the IGF1R pathway have led to an FDA-approved drug, teprotumumab that represents a novel treatment approach for Graves' orbitopathy. Unfortunately, high drug costs and misplaced insurance company 'step-therapy' policies may block patients from receiving therapy that can protect vision and improve quality of life. SUMMARY Improved understanding of orbital inflammatory conditions has led to a new drug and promises additional breakthroughs. Translational research is successful, but requires time, resources, and patience.
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