POS0220 LONG-TERM SAFETY AND EFFECTIVENESS OF CANAKINUMAB IN CRYOPYRIN-ASSOCIATED PERIODIC SYNDROMES – 36-MONTH DATA FROM THE RELIANCE REGISTRY

Background

The cryopyrin-associated periodic fever syndromes (CAPS) are hereditary monogenic autoinflammatory diseases with severe systemic and organ inflammation due to increased production of Interleukin-1β (IL-1β). The subcutaneously administered monoclonal antibody canakinumab (CAN) effectively inhibits IL-1β and results in rapid remission of CAPS symptoms in clinical trials as well as in real-life.

Objectives

The RELIANCE registry is designed to explore long-term safety and effectiveness of CAN under routine clinical practice conditions in pediatric (≥2 years) and adult patients with CAPS, including Muckle-Wells syndrome (MWS), familial cold autoinflammatory syndrome (FCAS), and neonatal onset multisystem inflammatory disease (NOMID)/chronic infantile neurological cutaneous and articular syndrome (CINCA).

Methods

This prospective, non-interventional, observational study with a 3-year follow-up enrolls patients in Germany with clinically confirmed diagnoses of CAPS routinely receiving CAN. In 6-monthly visits, clinical data, physician assessments and patient-reported outcomes are evaluated starting at baseline.

Results

98 CAPS patients (52% female; 15 [15%] NOMID/CINCA subtypes) were enrolled by December 2021 (Table 1). At baseline, median age was 20 years and median duration of prior CAN treatment was 6 years. At the 36 months visit, 74% of patients reached disease remission by physicians´ assessment along with increasing rates of absent disease activity (patient’s assessment, median 2.0 at baseline and 0.0 month 36). In addition, patients reported low levels of fatigue (absent to mild/moderate: 87% at baseline and 95% at month 36). At baseline, CAPS impaired social life in 47% of patients (37% at month 36) and 33% (23% at month 36) reported days off from school/work. Lab parameters were within normal limits. Remission and disease control were sustained as evaluated parameters remained stable or even decreased over time.

Table 1.

Patient and physician assessment of clinical CAPS disease activity and laboratory markers over time.

Baseline12 months36 monthsNumber of patients, N987240Number (%) of patients in disease remission (physician assessment)64 (68)48 (70)28 (74)Patient’s assessment of current disease activity; 0–10, median (min; max)2.0 (0; 7)2.0 (0; 7)0.0 (0; 6)Patient’s assessment of current fatigue; 0–10, median (min; max)3.0 (0; 9)2.0 (0; 8)1.0 (0; 8)Number (%) of patients without impairment of social life by the disease34 (53)35 (65.0)17 (63)CRP (mg/dl) | SAA (mg/dl); median0.1 | 0.30.1 | 0.50.1 | 0.3Number (%) of patients with disease-related symptomsprior to inclusion into the study | at baseline12 months36 monthsFever75 (80) | 14 (15)19 (28)4 (11)Fatigue84 (89) | 49 (52)36 (52)17 (46)Conjunctivitis/Uveitis63 (67) | 27 (29)21 (30)7 (19)Headache68 (72) | 30 (32)30 (43)9 (24)Arthralgia/arthritis80 (85) | 32 (34)30 (43)14 (38)Impairment of hearing35 (37) | 23 (25)18 (26)11 (30)Trigger (cold, stress, infections, vaccinations, hormones)71 (76) | 32 (34)21 (30)3 (8)SAENumber of eventsIncidence rate* per 100 patient yearsAll types of SAE | SADR63 | 28#25.98 | 11.55

CRP, c-reactive protein; ESR, erythrocyte sedimentation rate; n. a., not annotated; SAA, serum amyloid A; SADR, serious adverse drug reaction; SAE, serious adverse event

*Incidence rate = number of events * 36,525 / sum of observation days (=88,558)

#Abdominal pain, Alport’s syndrome, appendicitis, arthralgia, blister, cardiovascular disorder, chest pain, circulatory collapse, dehydration, diplopia, dyspnoea, erythema, febrile convulsion, gastroenteritis, glomerulonephritis, haemophilus test positive, myalgia, oedema, pneumonia, premature delivery, skin discoloration, tonsillectomy, tonsillitis bacterial, tonsillitis streptococcal, vision blurred (all N=1 event), pyrexia (3 events)

Conclusion

The 36-month interim analysis of the RELIANCE study demonstrates that long-term CAN treatment is safe and effective in patients with CAPS, independent of subtype severity.

Disclosure of Interests

J. B. Kuemmerle-Deschner Consultant of: Novartis, AbbVie, Sobi, Grant/research support from: Novartis, AbbVie, Sobi, Birgit Kortus-Goetze Paid instructor for: Novartis, Prasad Oommen Grant/research support from: Novartis, Ales Janda: None declared, Jürgen Rech Speakers bureau: Abbvie, Biogen, BMS, Chugai, GSK, Janssen, Lilly, MSD; Mylan, Novartis, Roche, Sanofi, Sobi, UCB, Consultant of: Abbvie, Biogen, BMS, Chugai, GSK, Janssen, Lilly, MSD, Mylan, Novartis, Roche, Sanofi, Sobi, UCB, Grant/research support from: Novartis, Sobi, Catharina Schuetz: None declared, Tilmann Kallinich Consultant of: Sobi, Novartis, Roche, Grant/research support from: Novartis, Frank Weller-Heinemann: None declared, Gerd Horneff Speakers bureau: AbbVie, Bayer, Chugai, Merck Sharp & Dohme, Novartis, Pfizer, Roche, Grant/research support from: AbbVie, Chugai, Merck Sharp & Dohme, Novartis, Pfizer, Roche, Ivan Foeldvari Consultant of: Novartis, Hexal, Medac, Pfizer, Florian Meier Speakers bureau: Novartis, Michael Borte Grant/research support from: Pfizer, Shire, Tobias Krickau Speakers bureau: Novartis, Consultant of: Novartis, Grant/research support from: Novartis, Julia Weber-Arden Employee of: Novartis, Norbert Blank Consultant of: Novartis, Sobi, Lilly, Pfizer, Abbvie, BMS, MSD, Actelion, UCB, Boehringer-Ingelheim, Roche, Grant/research support from: Novartis, Sobi

POS1374 LONG-TERM SAFETY OF CANAKINUMAB IN PATIENTS WITH AUTOINFLAMMATORY DISEASES - INTERIM ANALYSIS OF THE RELIANCE REGISTRY

Background

Autoinflammatory diseases (AID) are characterized by severe systemic and organ inflammation as well as high burden of disease for patients and their families. Treatment with the monoclonal antibody canakinumab (CAN), an interleukin-1β inhibitor, has been proven to be safe and effective in clinical trials and real-life.

Objectives

The present study explores the long-term efficacy and safety of CAN in routine clinical practice conditions in pediatric (age ≥2 years) and adult patients with CAPS (cryopyrin-associated periodic syndromes), FMF (familial Mediterranean fever), TRAPS (tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated periodic syndrome) and HIDS/MKD (hyperimmunoglobulinemia D syndrome/mevalonate kinase deficiency).

Methods

RELIANCE is a prospective, non-interventional, observational study based in Germany. Patients with clinically confirmed diagnoses of AID routinely receiving CAN are enrolled. Besides efficacy parameters regarding disease activity and remission, safety parameters were recorded at baseline and assessed at 6-monthly intervals.

Results

Here, we present the interim analysis of patients with AID (N=199) enrolled in the RELIANCE Registry between October 2017 and December 2021. Mean age in this cohort was 24.4 years (2–79 years) and the proportion of female patients was 53% (N=104). At baseline, median duration of prior CAN treatment was 2 years (0–12 years).

A total of 123 patients (62%) experienced any AE (N=653) among which nasopharyngitis, increase of inflammatory markers and pyrexia were the most frequent AE with incidence rates per 100 patient years (IR) of 8.3, 6.2, and 6.2, respectively.

29 patients (15%) were affected by severe AE (SAE, total number N=90) including 11 patients (6%) with SAE suspected to be drug-related (SADR; total number N=30) with IR from 0.2 to 0.7 (Table 1). Overall, 16 AE comprised upper respiratory tract infections (URI). One death (COVID-19, not related) and one malignancy (skin papilloma, not related) were reported. No vertigo and no hypersensitivity reactions were observed. N=10 (IR 2.36) vaccination reactions were reported (no SAE).

Table 1.

Overview of the CAN safety data of the RELIANCE study across all study indications (N=199 patients).

Type of eventNumber of eventsIR‡AE total653154.43AE non-serious563133.15AE, non-serious, not related31774.97AE, URI163.78AE, non-serious adverse drug reaction24658.18SAE, total9021.28SAE, not related6014.19SADR#, total307.09

#Abdominal pain; Alport’s syndrome, appendicitis, arthralgia, blister, cardiovascular disorder, chest pain, circulatory collapse, dehydration, diplopia, dyspnoea, erythema, febrile convulsion, gastroenteritis, glomerulonephritis, Haemophilus test positive, myalgia, oedema, pneumonia, premature delivery, skin discoloration, tachycardia, tonsillitis bacterial, tonsillitis streptococcal, vision blurred (each n=1 event, IR 0.24‡), tonsillectomy (2 events, IR 0.47‡), pyrexia (3 events, IR 0.71‡), not yet coded (hospital admission due to exsiccosis upon gastroenteritis, 1 event, IR 0.35‡)

‡IR, incidence rate per 100 patient years; AE, adverse event; URI, upper respiratory tract infection; SAE, severe adverse event, SADR, severe adverse drug reaction

Incidence rate = number of events * 36,525 / sum of observation days (=154,442)

Conclusion

The interim data from the RELIANCE study, the longest running real-life canakinumab registry, confirm safety of long-term canakinumab treatment across the entire study population. A trend for dose-related increase of SAE/SADR requires continuous close monitoring and awareness in patient groups (children, severe phenotypes, certain genotypes) requiring greater than standard dose treatment regimens.

Disclosure of Interests

J. B. Kuemmerle-Deschner Consultant of: Novartis, AbbVie, Sobi, Grant/research support from: Novartis, AbbVie, Sobi, Jörg Henes Consultant of: Novartis, AbbVie, Sobi, Roche, Janssen, Boehringer-Ingelheim, Grant/research support from: Novartis, Roche, Birgit Kortus-Goetze Consultant of: Novartis, Tilmann Kallinich Consultant of: Sobi, Novartis, Roche, Grant/research support from: Novartis, Prasad Oommen Grant/research support from: Novartis, Jürgen Rech Speakers bureau: Abbvie, Biogen, BMS, Chugai, GSK, Janssen, Lilly, MSD; Mylan, Novartis, Roche, Sanofi, Sobi, UCB, Consultant of: Abbvie, Biogen, BMS, Chugai, GSK, Janssen, Lilly, MSD, Mylan, Novartis, Roche, Sanofi, Sobi, UCB, Grant/research support from: Novartis, Sobi, Tobias Krickau Speakers bureau: Novartis, Consultant of: Novartis, Grant/research support from: Novartis, Frank Weller-Heinemann: None declared, Gerd Horneff Speakers bureau: AbbVie, Bayer, Chugai, Merck Sharp & Dohme, Novartis, Pfizer, Roche, Grant/research support from: AbbVie, Chugai, Merck Sharp & Dohme, Novartis, Pfizer, Roche, Ales Janda: None declared, Ivan Foeldvari Consultant of: Novartis, Hexal, Medac, Pfizer, Catharina Schuetz: None declared, Frank Dressler Consultant of: Abbvie, Mylan, Novartis, Pfizer, Grant/research support from: Novartis, Michael Borte Grant/research support from: Pfizer, Shire, Markus Hufnagel Consultant of: Novartis and SOBI, Florian Meier Speakers bureau: Novartis, Michael Fiene: None declared, Julia Weber-Arden Employee of: Novartis, Norbert Blank Consultant of: Novartis, Sobi, Lilly, Pfizer, Abbvie, BMS, MSD, Actelion, UCB, Boehringer-Ingelheim, Roche, Grant/research support from: Novartis, Sobi

POS0221 LONG-TERM EFFICACY AND SAFETY OF CANAKINUMAB IN PATIENTS WITH TRAPS (TUMOR NECROSIS FACTOR RECEPTOR-ASSOCIATED PERIODIC SYNDROME) – INTERIM ANALYSIS OF THE RELIANCE REGISTRY

Background

Tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated periodic syndrome (TRAPS) is a rare hereditary autoinflammatory disease characterized by periodic fever as well as severe systemic and organ inflammation. Successful treatment was achieved with the interleukin-1β inhibitor canakinumab (CAN) in a pivotal phase 3 study, in which 45% of patients reached clinical remission after 16 weeks (primary endpoint)1. CAN has been approved and applied for the treatment of TRAPS patients since 20172.

Objectives

The present study explores the long-term efficacy and safety of CAN under routine clinical practice conditions in pediatric (age ≥2 years) and adult TRAPS patients.

Methods

RELIANCE is a prospective, non-interventional, multi-center, observational study based in Germany. Patients with clinically confirmed diagnosis of TRAPS who routinely receive CAN are enrolled in order to evaluate efficacy and safety of CAN under standard clinical practice conditions at baseline and at 6-monthly intervals.

Results

The interim analysis of TRAPS patients enrolled by December 2021 includes baseline (N=19, 1 patient with atypical TRAPS) and preliminary 24-month data. Of these patients, N=12 (63%) were females and median age at baseline was 16 years (3–43 years).

Preliminary results indicate stable remission by physicians´ assessment and laboratory parameters. Disease control by patients´ assessment showed no major changes over time (Table 1). In total, N=7 adverse drug reactions where observed, of which none was classified as severe.

Table 1.

Baseline characteristics and interim analysis data of patients with TRAPS.

Baseline(N=19)12 months(N=15)24 months(N=8)Number (%) of patients in disease remission (physician assessment)9 (53)11 (79)4 (67)Physician assessment of disease activity, percentage of absent/mild-moderate/severe rating35 / 59 / 057 / 36 / 767 / 33 / 0Patient´s assessment of current disease activity; 0–10, median (min; max)1.5 (0; 8)1.0 (0; 6)0 (0; 7)Patient´s assessment of current fatigue; 0–10, median (min; max)1.0 (0; 8)1.0 (0; 8)0 (0; 8)Number (%) of patients without impairment of social life by the disease5 (56)4 (44)2 (100)Number (%) of patients with days absent from work/school during last 6 months8 (44)6 (40)1 (14)CRP, median (mg/dl)0.20.10.2SAA, median (mg/dl)0.50.40.4ESR, median (mm/h)7.05.56.0SAENumber of eventsIncidence rate# per 100 patient yearsAll types of SAE924.2SADR00.0

CRP, c-reactive protein; SAA, serum amyloid A; ESR, erythrocyte sedimentation rate; #Numbers/percentage do not sum up to N=19/100%, due to unknown weight of some patients

Conclusion

Baseline characteristics and interim data of TRAPS patients are available from the RELIANCE study. Further interim and end-of-study data will be analyzed to assess efficacy and safety of long-term treatment as well as dosing effects in TRAPS patients.

References

[1]De Benedetti F, et al. Canakinumab for the treatment of autoinflammatory recurrent fever syndromes. N Engl J Med 2018;378:1908–19

[2]Ilaris, INN-canakinumab (europa.eu)

Disclosure of Interests

Norbert Blank Consultant of: Novartis, Sobi, Lilly, Pfizer, Abbvie, BMS, MSD, Actelion, UCB, Boehringer-Ingelheim, Roche, Grant/research support from: Novartis, Sobi, Catharina Schuetz: None declared, Jörg Henes Consultant of: Novartis, AbbVie, Sobi, Roche, Janssen, Boehringer-Ingelheim, Grant/research support from: Novartis, Roche, Tilmann Kallinich Consultant of: Sobi, Novartis, Roche, Grant/research support from: Novartis, Prasad Oommen Grant/research support from: Novartis, Michael Borte Grant/research support from: Pfizer, Shire, Markus Hufnagel Grant/research support from: Novartis, Ales Janda: None declared, Julia Weber-Arden Employee of: Novartis, J. B. Kuemmerle-Deschner Consultant of: Novartis, AbbVie, Sobi, Grant/research support from: Novartis, AbbVie, Sobi

POS1380 LONG-TERM EFFICACY AND SAFETY OF CANAKINUMAB IN PATIENTS WITH TRAPS (TUMOR NECROSIS FACTOR RECEPTOR-ASSOCIATED PERIODIC SYNDROME) - INTERIM ANALYSIS OF THE RELIANCE REGISTRY

Background:

Tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated periodic syndrome (TRAPS) is a rare autoinflammatory condition characterized by severe systemic and organ inflammation. In a phase 3 pivotal trial (CLUSTER study), TRAPS patients have been successfully treated with the interleukin-1β inhibitor canakinumab. 45% of patients reached clinical remission after 16 weeks (primary endpoint)1. Canakinumab has been approved and applied for the treatment of TRAPS patients since 20172.

Objectives:

The present study explores the long-term efficacy and safety of canakinumab under routine clinical practice conditions in pediatric (age ≥2 years) and adult TRAPS patients.

Methods:

RELIANCE is a prospective, non-interventional, multi-center, observational study based in Germany with a 3-year follow-up period. Patients with clinically confirmed diagnoses of TRAPS, CAPS, FMF or HIDS/MKD who routinely receive canakinumab are enrolled in order to evaluate efficacy and safety of canakinumab under standard clinical practice conditions. Disease activity and remission by physician assessment, disease activity and fatigue by patient assessment, days absent from school/work due to study indication, inflammatory markers, and AIDAI (Auto-Inflammatory Diseases Activity Index) score were assessed at baseline and at 6-monthly intervals.

Results:

The interim analysis of TRAPS patients enrolled by December 2020 includes baseline (N=16, including 1 patient with atypical TRAPS) and preliminary 18-month data. Mean age in this cohort was 23 years (3−43 years) and the median duration of prior CAN treatment was 1.0 year (0−4 years).

Physician assessment indicated 60-80% remission and laboratory parameters were within normal range. Disease control by patient assessment showed no major changes regarding the analyzed parameters (Table 1, Figure 1). Of the three serious adverse events reported none was classified as drug-related.

Conclusion:

Preliminary analysis of 18 month interim data of TRAPS patients treated with CAN available from the RELIANCE study indicate stable efficacy and safety of CAN long-term treatment.

References:

[1]De Benedetti F, et al. Canakinumab for the treatment of autoinflammatory recurrent fever syndromes. N Engl J Med 2018;378:1908–19.

[2]Ilaris, INN-canakinumab (europa.eu)

Table 1.

Baseline characteristics and interim analysis data of patients with TRAPS

Baseline6 months12 months18 monthsNumber of patients, N1613106Median age, years (min; max)23 (3; 43)17 (3; 43)16 (4; 38)25 (4; 43)Females (%)11 (69)9 (69)7 (70)3 (50)Median duration of prior CAN therapy at baseline, years (min; max)1.0 (0; 4)1.0 (0; 4)1.0 (0; 4)1.5 (0; 2)Number (%) of patients in disease remission (physician assessment)9 (60.0)9 (81.8)7 (77.8)4 (80.0)Physician Global Assessment, percentage of absent/mild-moderate/severe rating40 / 53 / 082 / 9 / 044 / 44 / 1180 / 20 / 0Patient assessment of current disease activity; 0–10, median (min; max)1.5 (0; 5)1.0 (0; 4)1.0 (0; 6)0.0 (0; 3)Patient assessment of current fatigue; 0–10, median (min; max)2.0 (0; 8)1.0 (0; 7)2,5 (0; 8)4.0 (0; 7)Number (%) of patients without impairment of social life by the disease4 (50)5 (63)2 (33)3 (60)Number (%) of patients with days absent from work/school during last 6 months8 (50)5 (39)5 (56)3 (50)CRP, median (mg/dl)0.10.10.10.0SAA, median (mg/dl)0.50.40.40.3ESR, median (mm/h)7.05.05.05.0SAENumber of eventsIncidence rate per 100 patient yearsTotal314.7Circulatory collapse (non fatal)14.9Dizziness14.9Headache14.9

CRP, c-reactive protein; ESR, erythrocyte sedimentation rate; SAA, serum amyloid A; SAE, serious adverse event

Disclosure of Interests:

Norbert Blank Consultant of: Novartis, Sobi, Lilly, Pfizer, Abbvie, BMS, MSD, Actelion, UCB, Boehringer-Ingelheim, Roche, Grant/research support from: Novartis, Sobi, Jörg Henes Consultant of: Novartis, AbbVie, Sobi, Roche, Janssen, Boehringer-Ingelheim, Grant/research support from: Novartis, Roche, Tilmann Kallinich Consultant of: Sobi, Novartis, Roche, Grant/research support from: Novartis, Prasad Oommen Grant/research support from: Novartis, Catharina Schuetz: None declared, Michael Borte Grant/research support from: Pfizer, Shire, Julia Weber-Arden Employee of: Novartis, J. B. Kuemmerle-Deschner Consultant of: Novartis, AbbVie, Sobi, Grant/research support from: Novartis, AbbVie, Sobi

POS1199 CLINICAL MANIFESTATIONS OF SARS-CoV2 INFECTIONS IN CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS WITH RHEUMATIC AND MUSCULUSKELETAL DISEASES – SURVEY DATA FROM GERMANY

Background:

Although children and adolescents are less likely to develop COVID-19 and generally show milder disease courses, it is unclear what impact the SARS-CoV2 infection has on children and adolescents with rheumatic and musculoskeletal disease (RMD). Due to their underlying disease as well as therapeutic immunosuppression these patients may be at higher risk of being more severely affected by SARS-CoV2. Furthermore, SARS-CoV2 infection might trigger a flare of the underlying disease.

Objectives:

To evaluate clinical characteristics and disease course of COVID-19 in children and adolescents with RMD and to analyze possible effects of SARS-CoV2 infection on the underlying disease under different therapeutic regimens.

Methods:

Data from juvenile patients with RMD recorded via the SARS-CoV2 questionnaire within the National Pediatric Rheumatology Database and the registry for hospitalized children and adolescents with COVID-19 of the German Society for Pediatric Infectious Diseases were analyzed. In addition to age, sex and diagnosis, information was collected about the date and method of a positive SARS-CoV2 testing, reason for testing, on clinical manifestations, disease course, treatment and outcome of COVID-19, on drug therapy at the time of virus detection, on disease activity (NRS 0 – 10, 0 = best) of the underlying disease at the last visit before and after the SARS-CoV2 infection.

Results:

From April 17th 2020 until January 25th 2021, data of 67 patients with RMD and confirmed SARS-CoV2 infection were collected. Mean age was 13.5 ± 3.9 years with equal sex distribution. The majority of patients were diagnosed with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA, 64%), 12 (18%) patients had an autoinflammatory disease (FMF, CAPS, PFAPA, TRAPS) and 5 (7%) a connective tissue disease. Fifty-two patients (78%) were treated with a disease modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD), 39% with a biological DMARD and 9% systemic glucocorticoids at the time of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Nineteen patients (28%) were tested for SARS-CoV-2 because of typical symptoms, the majority (67%) because of contact to an infected person. PCR was used most often (in 60 %).

52 patients (78%) developed symptoms of COVID-19, 15 patients remained asymptomatic. The most common symptom of COVID-19 was rhinitis (42%) and fever (38%), followed by fatigue (34%), taste/smell disorder (33%), sore throat (27%) and cough (23%).

Disease severity was graded as mild in 44 of 52 (85%) symptomatic patients, only two patients were hospitalized, one of whom required intensive care and died of cardiorespiratory failure 3 days after symptom onset. In 22 of 26 (85%) SARS-CoV2-positive patients, no relevant increase in disease activity (difference in NRS ≤ 1 before/after infection) of the underlying disease was observed 31 days after symptom onset (median, IQR 17-52 days). One patient, who had paused tocilizumab for 2 doses, experienced a flare of his seronegative polyarthritis 2 months after asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Conclusion:

In our cohort, the clinical picture of COVID-19 in children and adolescents with RMD was similar to that of healthy peers. The majority of patients showed mild disease course with good outcome under various medications, however, one patient with a severe course of COVID-19 died. In addition, SARS-CoV2 infection does not appear to have a relevant impact on the underlying disease activity, whereas discontinuation of therapy might pose a risk of flare.

Disclosure of Interests:

None declared.

FRI0486 LONG-TERM EFFICACY AND SAFETY OF CANAKINUMAB IN PATIENTS WITH AUTOINFLAMMATORY PERIODIC FEVER SYNDROMES – FIRST INTERIM ANALYSIS OF THE FMF/TRAPS/HIDS SUBGROUPS FROM THE RELIANCE REGISTRY

Background:

Autoinflammatory periodic fever syndromes characterized by excessive interleukin(IL)-1b release and severe systemic and organ inflammation have been successfully treated with the anti-IL-1 inhibitor canakinumab (CAN). In clinical trial situations and real life, rapid remission of symptoms and normalization of laboratory parameters were observed in most patients.1-3

Objectives:

The present study explores long-term effectiveness and safety of CAN under routine clinical practice conditions in pediatric and adult patients with CAPS (cryopyrin-associated periodic syndromes), FMF (familial Mediterranean fever), TRAPS (tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated periodic syndrome) and HIDS/MKD (hyperimmunoglobulinemia D syndrome/mevalonate kinase deficiency).

Methods:

RELIANCE is a prospective, non-interventional, multi-center, observational study based in Germany with a 3-year follow-up period. Pediatric (age ≥2 years) and adult patients with clinically confirmed diagnoses of CAPS, FMF, TRAPS and HIDS/MKD that routinely receive CAN are enrolled in order to evaluate effectiveness and safety of CAN in clinical routine.

Results:

This first interim analysis of patient subgroups diagnosed with FMF, HIDS and TRAPS includes baseline data of 41 patients (10 TRAPS, 2 HIDS, 29 FMF), including preliminary 6-month data of a FMF-subset (N=16).

Evaluation of disease activity and fatigue by patients’ assessment, days absent from school/work, inflammatory markers and physician global assessment (PGA) was performed at baseline and will be further assessed at 6-monthly intervals within the 3-year observation period. Preliminary results of a first subset of 16 patients diagnosed with FMF are available and indicate stable remission and disease control upon long-term CAN treatment: within the first study interval, no major changes were observed regarding the analyzed parameters (table 1).

Table 1.

Baseline characteristics of the TRAPS/HIDS/FMF-subgroups and preliminary 6-month data of FMF subset.

TRAPSHIDSFMFBaselineBaselineBaselineall FMF patientsBaselineFMF subset6 monthsFMF subsetNumber of patients, N102291616Mean age, years (SD)22 (4; 43)11 (5; 18)26 (5; 56)16 (5; 47)16 (5; 47)Female (%), N=9 (1 missing)5 (56)1 (50)15 (52)7 (44)7 (44)Mean duration of prior canakinumab treatment, years (min; max)1 (0; 2)3 (2; 4)n. a.2.2 (0; 6)2.2 (0; 6)Patient’s assessment of disease activity 0-10, mean (min; max)2.1 (0; 5)0 (0; 0)3 (0; 10)2.8 (0; 8)2.2 (0; 7)Patient’s assessment of fatigue 0-103.4 (0; 8)0 (0; 0)4.4 (0; 9)4.6 (0; 9)3.9 (0; 8)Number (%) of patients with days absent from school/work due to study indication during last 6 months4 (44)2 (100)5 (17)2 (13)5 (31)Inflammatory markers, CRP/SAA, mean (mg/dL)2.07.90.10.60.95.30.52.40.62.4PGA of disease activity: no/mild to moderate/severe; N (%)*1 (11)6 (67)0 (0)2 (100)0 (0)0 (0)10 (35)8 (28)2 (7)5 (31)7 (44)1 (6)6 (38)7 (44)0 (0)SAE, N (%)0 (0)0 (0)2 (6.9)n. a.2 (12.5)

Conclusion:

Baseline characteristics of all subgroups and first interim data of FMF patients are available from the RELIANCE study, the longest running real-life CAN registry. Further interval data will be analyzed to assess efficacy and safety of long-term CAN-treatment in patients with autoinflammatory periodic fever syndromes.

References:

[1]Lachmann et al. N Engl J Med. 2009;360(23):2416-25

[2]Kuemmerle-Deschner et al. Rheumatology (Oxford). 2016;55(4):689-96

[3]De Benedetti et al. N Engl J Med. 2018;378(20):1908-1919

Disclosure of Interests:

Jörg Henes Grant/research support from: Novartis, Roche-Chugai, Consultant of: Novartis, Roche, Celgene, Pfizer, Abbvie, Sanofi, Boehringer-Ingelheim,, J. B. Kuemmerle-Deschner Grant/research support from: Novartis, AbbVie, Sobi, Consultant of: Novartis, AbbVie, Sobi, Michael Borte Grant/research support from: Pfizer, Shire, Ivan Foeldvari Consultant of: Novartis, Gerd Horneff Grant/research support from: AbbVie, Chugai, Merck Sharp & Dohme, Novartis, Pfizer, Roche, Speakers bureau: AbbVie, Bayer, Chugai, Merck Sharp & Dohme, Novartis, Pfizer, Roche, Tilmann Kallinich Grant/research support from: Novartis, Consultant of: Sobi, Roche, Novartis, Birgit Kortus-Goetze Consultant of: Novartis, Frank Weller-Heinemann: None declared, Julia Weber-Arden Employee of: I am employed by Novartis, Norbert Blank Grant/research support from: Novartis, Sobi, Consultant of: Novartis, Sobi, Lilly, Pfizer, Abbvie, BMS, MSD, Actelion, UCB, Boehringer-Ingelheim, Roche

SAT0510 LONG-TERM EFFECTIVENESS OF CANAKINUMAB IN AID – INTERIM ANALYSIS OF THE CAPS SUBGROUP FROM THE RELIANCE REGISTRY

Background:

In the treatment of monogenic autoinflammatory diseases (AID), a heterogeneous group of diseases with excessive interleukin (IL)-1β release and severe systemic and organ inflammation, the anti-IL-1 inhibitor canakinumab (CAN) has been associated with rapid remission of symptoms in clinical trials as well as in real-life.1-3

Objectives:

The aim of the RELIANCE registry is to explore long-term effectiveness and safety of CAN under routine clinical practice conditions in pediatric and adult patients with CAPS (cryopyrin-associated periodic syndromes, including Muckle-Wells syndrome [MWS], familial cold autoinflammatory syndrome [FCAS], neonatal onset multisystem inflammatory disease [NOMID]/chronic infantile neurological cutaneous and articular syndrome [CINCA]), FMF (familial Mediterranean fever), TRAPS (tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated periodic syndrome) and HIDS/MKD (hyperimmunoglobulinemia D syndrome/mevalonate kinase deficiency).

Methods:

This prospective, non-interventional, observational study is based in Germany with a 3-year follow-up and enrolls pediatric ≥2 years and adult patients with clinically confirmed diagnoses of CAPS, FMF, TRAPS and HIDS/MKD routinely receiving CAN. In 6-monthly visits, clinical data and patient-reported outcomes are assessed. Study endpoints are long-term effectiveness and safety of CAN. Here, the CAPS cohort was analyzed.

Results:

This 18-month interim-analysis includes 78 CAPS patients (49% females) enrolled by September 2019. Mean age at baseline was 25 years and mean duration of prior CAN treatment was 5.7 years. 64 patients (82%) had MWS, 2 FCAS, 7 NOMID/CINCA, 3 atypical CAPS and 2 lacked subtype diagnosis. Disease activity, fatigue and social impairment by patients’ assessment, days absent from school/work, inflammatory markers, and remission by physician assessment were evaluated at 6-monthly intervals starting at baseline with last update at 18 months of follow-up (table 1). The results demonstrate sustained remission and disease control as evaluated parameters remained stable over time. Serious adverse events were reported for 9 patients including papillitis, pyrexia, tonsillitis (n=2), appendicitis, chest pain, circulatory collapse, skin disorders, and preterm delivery.

Table 1.

Patient and physician assessment of clinical CAPS disease activity and laboratory markers over time

Baseline6 months12 months18 monthsNumber of patients, N78514229Mean age, years (SD)25 (4; 79)22 (4; 79)20 (4; 58)22 (4; 54)Patient’s assessment of disease activity 0-10, mean (min; max)2.2 (0; 7)1.8 (0; 7)2.4 (0; 7)2.8 (0; 8)Patient’s assessment of fatigue 0-102.9 (0; 9)2.4 (0; 8)2.8 (0; 8)1.7 (0; 7)Number (%) of patients without impairment of social life by disease16 (49)29 (76)20 (61)14 (67)Number (%) of patients with days absent from school/work25 (32.5)11 (22)14 (34)15 (52)Inflammatory markers, CRP/SAA, mean (mg/dL)0.43.20.42.10.30.80.20.5Number (%) of patients in disease remission (physician assessment)55 (72)38 (76)29 (71)22 (76)

Conclusion:

The 18-month interim analysis of the RELIANCE study, the longest running real-life CAN registry, demonstrates that long-term CAN treatment is safe and effective in CAPS patients.

References:

[1]Lachmann et al. N Engl J Med. 2009;360(23):2416-25

[2]Kuemmerle-Deschner et al. Rheumatology (Oxford). 2016;55(4):689-96

[3]De Benedetti et al. N Engl. J Med. 2018;378(20):1908-1919

Disclosure of Interests:

Norbert Blank Grant/research support from: Novartis, Sobi, Consultant of: Novartis, Sobi, Lilly, Pfizer, Abbvie, BMS, MSD, Actelion, UCB, Boehringer-Ingelheim, Roche, Michael Borte Grant/research support from: Pfizer, Shire, Ivan Foeldvari Consultant of: Novartis, Gerd Horneff Grant/research support from: AbbVie, Chugai, Merck Sharp & Dohme, Novartis, Pfizer, Roche, Speakers bureau: AbbVie, Bayer, Chugai, Merck Sharp & Dohme, Novartis, Pfizer, Roche, Tilmann Kallinich Grant/research support from: Novartis, Consultant of: Sobi, Roche, Novartis, Birgit Kortus-Goetze Consultant of: Novartis, Prasad Oommen Consultant of: Novartis, Catharina Schuetz: None declared, Frank Weller-Heinemann: None declared, Julia Weber-Arden Employee of: I am employed by Novartis, J. B. Kuemmerle-Deschner Grant/research support from: Novartis, AbbVie, Sobi, Consultant of: Novartis, AbbVie, Sobi

MAIT cell activation in adolescents is impacted by bile acid concentrations and body weight

Bile acids (BAs) are produced by liver hepatocytes and were recently shown to exert functions additional to their well-known role in lipid digestion. As yet it is not known whether the mucosal-associated invariant T (MAIT) cells, which represent 10-15% of the hepatic T cell population, are affected by BAs. The focus of the present investigation was on the association of BA serum concentration with MAIT cell function and inflammatory parameters as well as on the relationship of these parameters to body weight. Blood samples from 41 normal weight and 41 overweight children of the Lifestyle Immune System Allergy (LISA) study were analyzed with respect to MAIT cell surface and activation markers [CD107a, CD137, CD69, interferon (IFN)-γ, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α] after Escherichia coli stimulation, mRNA expression of promyelocytic leukemia zinc finger protein (PLZF) and major histocompatibility complex class I-related gene protein (MR1), the inflammatory markers C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin (IL)-8 and macrophage inflammatory protein (MIP)-1α as well as the concentrations of 13 conjugated and unconjugated BAs. Higher body weight was associated with reduced MAIT cell activation and expression of natural killer cell marker (NKp80) and chemokine receptor (CXCR3). BA concentrations were positively associated with the inflammatory parameters CRP, IL-8 and MIP-1α, but were negatively associated with the number of activated MAIT cells and the MAIT cell transcription factor PLZF. These relationships were exclusively found with conjugated BAs. BA-mediated inhibition of MAIT cell activation was confirmed in vitro. Thus, conjugated BAs have the capacity to modulate the balance between pro- and anti-inflammatory immune responses.

Efficacy, safety, tolerability and pharmacokinetics of a novel human immune globulin subcutaneous, 20%: a Phase 2/3 study in Europe in patients with primary immunodeficiencies

A highly concentrated (20%) immunoglobulin (Ig)G preparation for subcutaneous administration (IGSC 20%), would offer a new option for antibody replacement therapy in patients with primary immunodeficiency diseases (PIDD). The efficacy, safety, tolerability and pharmacokinetics of IGSC 20% were evaluated in a prospective trial in Europe in 49 patients with PIDD aged 2–67 years. Over a median of 358 days, patients received 2349 IGSC 20% infusions at monthly doses equivalent to those administered for previous intravenous or subcutaneous IgG treatment. The rate of validated acute bacterial infections (VASBIs) was significantly lower than 1 per year (0·022/patient‐year, P < 0·0001); the rate of all infections was 4·38/patient‐year. Median trough IgG concentrations were ≥ 8 g/l. There was no serious adverse event (AE) deemed related to IGSC 20% treatment; related non‐serious AEs occurred at a rate of 0·101 event/infusion. The incidence of local related AEs was 0·069 event/infusion (0·036 event/infusion, when excluding a 13‐year‐old patient who reported 79 of 162 total related local AEs). The incidence of related systemic AEs was 0·032 event/infusion. Most related AEs were mild, none were severe. For 64·6% of patients and in 94·8% of IGSC 20% infusions, no local related AE occurred. The median infusion duration was 0·95 (range = 0·3‐4·1) h using mainly one to two administration sites [median = 2 sites (range = 1–5)]. Almost all infusions (99·8%) were administered without interruption/stopping or rate reduction. These results demonstrate that IGSC 20% provides an effective and well‐tolerated therapy for patients previously on intravenous or subcutaneous treatment, without the need for dose adjustment.

Biomonitoring of prenatal analgesic intake and correlation with infantile anti-aeroallergens IgE

An association between prenatal acetaminophen or ibuprofen intake and an increased risk of asthma and increased IgE level in children is discussed in various epidemiological studies. Although the molecular mechanistic link is still unknown, the question whether or not acetaminophen and/or ibuprofen are safe pain medications during pregnancy arose. In this study, we associate maternal acetaminophen and ibuprofen intake during pregnancy and breastfeeding to infantile asthma phenotypes and elevated IgE level. Therefore, we analysed questionnaires from a local mother-child cohort and monitored drug intake by LC-MS biomonitoring in urine. No association was found between drug intake and any analysed health outcome using questionnaire data. For the information obtained from biomonitoring, no association was found for ibuprofen and acetaminophen intakes during breastfeeding. However, an association between prenatal acetaminophen intake and increased infantile IgEs related to aeroallergens was statistically detected, but not for asthma phenotypes.

[Immunization in children and adolescents with rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases]

BACKGROUND

Children and adolescents with inflammatory rheumatic diseases have a disease and treatment-related increased risk of infections. This risk includes vaccine-preventable diseases; therefore, vaccinations represent an important preventive measure against infection in these patients. However, approximately one in three patients with a juvenile rheumatic disease is nowadays still inadequately vaccinated, mostly due to uncertainty regarding the efficacy and safety of vaccination in these patients.

OBJECTIVES

This paper summarizes the available evidence regarding the efficacy and safety of vaccinations in children and adolescents with rheumatic diseases and gives recommendations for the clinical practice.

RESULTS AND PERSPECTIVES

Almost 2000 children and adolescents with rheumatic diseases were examined in the more than 30 previously published vaccination studies, comprising nearly all standard vaccinations in the immunization schedule. The immunogenicity was usually sufficient and there was no evidence of a relevant aggravation of the underlying disease. Recommendations for the clinical practice are given also considering data beyond pediatric rheumatology; however, a final benefit-risk assessment is not yet possible.

7th International Immunoglobulin Conference: Immunoglobulin in clinical practice

Intravenous and subcutaneous immunoglobulins (IVIg and SCIg, respectively) are increasingly used in clinical practice, not only as replacement therapy but also for immunomodulation. Physicians have learned that primary immunodeficiency (PID) patients are susceptible to recurrent respiratory tract infections even when appropriately treated with immunoglobulin (Ig) therapy. Further investigation will establish whether a combined therapeutic approach including Ig dose optimization will prevent progressive lung disease in PID. The wear-off effects observed with IVIg can be minimized by adjusting the dosing regimen. It is also possible to avoid the cyclic wear-off following transition to SCIg administration. Consideration of benefit versus risk with Ig therapy includes evaluating the potential occurrence of thromboembolic and haemolytic events, which may be more frequent when Ig is administered in high doses and in the presence of pre-existing risk factors. The ability to select an administration method from IVIg, SCIg or hyaluronidase-facilitated SCIg infusions provides patient choice and alternatives if one or other administration route is not suitable for a patient. The evolution in indications, applications, and understanding of Ig therapy described here has reinforced the need for robust methods to prioritize Ig use.

Current treatment options with immunoglobulin G for the individualization of care in patients with primary immunodeficiency disease

Primary antibody deficiencies require lifelong replacement therapy with immunoglobulin (Ig)G to reduce the incidence and severity of infections. Both subcutaneous and intravenous routes of administering IgG can be effective and well tolerated. Treatment regimens can be individualized to provide optimal medical and quality-of-life outcomes in infants, children, adults and elderly people. Frequency, dose, route of administration, home or infusion-centre administration, and the use of self- or health-professional-administered infusion can be tailored to suit individual patient needs and circumstances. Patient education is needed to understand the disease and the importance of continuous therapy. Both the subcutaneous and intravenous routes have advantages and disadvantages, which should be considered in selecting each patient's treatment regimen. The subcutaneous route is attractive to many patients because of a reduced incidence of systemic adverse events, flexibility in scheduling and its comparative ease of administration, at home or in a clinic. Self-infusion regimens, however, require independence and self-reliance, good compliance on the part of the patient/parent and the confidence of the physician and the nurse. Intravenous administration in a clinic setting may be more appropriate in patients with reduced manual dexterity, reluctance to self-administer or a lack of self-reliance, and intravenous administration at home for those with good venous access who prefer less frequent treatments. Both therapy approaches have been demonstrated to provide protection from infections and improve health-related quality of life. Data supporting current options in IgG replacement are presented, and considerations in choosing between the two routes of therapy are discussed.

7th International Immunoglobulin Conference: Immunoglobulin in clinical practice

Immunoglobulin (Ig) replacement therapy has been the mainstay of primary immunodeficiencies (PID) treatment for more than 30 years and has substantially changed the lives of patients. This review focuses on aspects of Ig use in clinical practice in addition to discussing prioritizing future Ig use. Despite Ig therapy, PID patients continue to be predisposed to recurrent, subclinical respiratory tract infections, which may lead to chronic lung disease. Research has shown that one of the underlying reasons for this deterioration in lung function is the differential distribution and concentration of Ig isotypes in the airway lumen. Further to this, the relationship between Ig dose and infection outcome is explored, expanding on end-of-cycle loss of efficacy (wear-off) particularly with intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg), how this can confound the determination of optimal IgG dose and how our aim of treatment should be to improve clinical outcome. This review goes on to discuss the safety of Ig replacement therapy, which is generally well tolerated by most patients, compares the rates of systemic adverse reactions between IVIg and SCIg and highlights the advantages of SCIg administration in this respect, including the use of pre-infused subcutaneous recombinant human hyaluronidase to aid subcutaneous infusion volumes. The growing demand for Ig replacement therapy is challenging physicians; here we show the development of prioritization algorithms to assist in identifying those who will benefit most from this clinically valuable therapy.

The German national registry for primary immunodeficiencies (PID)

In 2009, a federally funded clinical and research consortium (PID-NET, http://www.pid-net.org) established the first national registry for primary immunodeficiencies (PID) in Germany. The registry contains clinical and genetic information on PID patients and is set up within the framework of the existing European Database for Primary Immunodeficiencies, run by the European Society for Primary Immunodeficiencies. Following the example of other national registries, a central data entry clerk has been employed to support data entry at the participating centres. Regulations for ethics approvals have presented a major challenge for participation of individual centres and have led to a delay in data entry in some cases. Data on 630 patients, entered into the European registry between 2004 and 2009, were incorporated into the national registry. From April 2009 to March 2012, the number of contributing centres increased from seven to 21 and 738 additional patients were reported, leading to a total number of 1368 patients, of whom 1232 were alive. The age distribution of living patients differs significantly by gender, with twice as many males than females among children, but 15% more women than men in the age group 30 years and older. The diagnostic delay between onset of symptoms and diagnosis has decreased for some PID over the past 20 years, but remains particularly high at a median of 4 years in common variable immunodeficiency (CVID), the most prevalent PID.

Maternal and newborn vitamin D status and its impact on food allergy development in the German LINA cohort study

BACKGROUND

Vitamin D levels are known to be associated with atopic disease development; however, existing data are controversial. The aim of this study was to investigate whether corresponding maternal and cord blood vitamin D levels are associated with atopic outcomes in early infancy.

METHODS

Within the LINA cohort study (Lifestyle and environmental factors and their Influence on Newborns Allergy risk), 25(OH)D was measured in blood samples of 378 mother-child pairs during pregnancy and at birth. Information about children's atopic manifestations during the first 2 years of life was obtained from questionnaires filled out by the parents during pregnancy and annually thereafter. Cord blood regulatory T cells (Treg) were detected by methylation-specific PCR using a Treg-specific demethylated region in the FOXP3 gene.

RESULTS

The median maternal 25(OH)D(3) level was 22.19 ng/ml (IQR 14.40-31.19 ng/ml); the median cord blood 25(OH)D(3) 10.95 ng/ml (6.99-17.39 ng/ml). A high correlation was seen between maternal and cord blood 25(OH)D(3) levels, both showing a seasonal distribution. Maternal and cord blood 25(OH)D(3) was positively associated with children's risk for food allergy within the first 2 years. Further, higher maternal 25(OH)D(3) resulted in a higher risk for sensitization against food allergens at the age of two. Cord blood 25(OH)D(3) levels were negatively correlated with regulatory T cell numbers.

CONCLUSION

Our study demonstrates that high vitamin D levels in pregnancy and at birth may contribute to a higher risk for food allergy and therefore argues against vitamin D supplement to protect against allergy.

[Interdisciplinary AWMF guideline for the treatment of primary antibody deficiencies]

BACKGROUND

Currently, management of antibody deficient patients differs significantly among caregivers. Evidence and consensus based (S3) guidelines for the treatment of primary antibody deficiencies were developed to improve the management of these patients.

METHODS

Based on a thorough analysis of current evidence (systematic literature search in PubMed; deadline November 2011) 14 recommendations were finalized during a consensus meeting in Frankfurt in November 2011 using structured consensus methods (nominal group technique). Experts were nominated by their scientific societies/patient initiatives (Tab. 1).

RESULTS

The guidelines focus on indication, practical issues and monitoring of immunoglobulin replacement therapy as well as on different routes of administration. Furthermore recommendations regarding supportive measures such as antiinfective therapy, vaccinations and physiotherapy are given. Combining literature evidence and experience of caregivers within this evidence and consensus based guidelines offers the chance to improve the quality of care for anti-body deficient patients.

Evaluation of correlation between dose and clinical outcomes in subcutaneous immunoglobulin replacement therapy

The importance of serum immunoglobulin (Ig)G concentration in IgG replacement therapy for primary immunodeficiency diseases is established in certain settings. Generally, IgG is infused via the intravenous (IVIG) or subcutaneous (SCIG) route. For IVIG infusion, published data demonstrate that higher IgG doses and trough levels provide patients with improved protection from infection. The same conclusions are not yet accepted for SCIG; data from two recent Phase III studies and a recent post-hoc analysis, however, suggest the same correlation between higher SCIG dose and serum IgG concentration and decreased incidence of infection seen with IVIG. Other measures of clinical efficacy have not been considered similarly. Thus, combined analyses of these and other published SCIG studies were performed; a full comparison of the 13 studies was, however, limited by non-standardized definitions and reporting. Despite these limitations, our analyses indicate that certain clinical outcomes improve at higher SCIG doses and associated higher serum IgG concentrations, and suggest that there might be opportunity to improve patient outcomes via SCIG dose adjustment.

The LINA cohort: indoor chemical exposure, circulating eosinophil/basophil (Eo/B) progenitors and early life skin manifestations

BACKGROUND

Hematopoietic progenitor cells, especially those committed to the Eo/B lineage, are known to contribute to allergic inflammation.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the present study was to investigate whether environmental factors are associated with changes in numbers of circulating Eo/B progenitors at 1 year of age.

METHODS

Peripheral blood from 60 1-year-old children enrolled in the LINA (Lifestyle and environmental factors and their Influence on Newborns Allergy risk) birth cohort was assessed for Eo/B progenitor cells (Eo/B CFU) using standardized and validated methylcellulose assays. Frozen peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) were cultured in the presence of IL-3, IL-5 or GM-CSF, and Eo/B CFUs enumerated. Clinical outcomes and exposure to environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) were documented by standardized questionnaires, and indoor volatile organic compound (VOC) concentrations were assessed by passive sampling.

RESULTS

Children with skin manifestations (atopic dermatitis or cradle cap) within the first year of life had higher numbers of circulating IL-3-, IL-5- or GM-CSF-stimulated Eo/B CFUs (P < 0.05) at 1 year. In children with cradle cap, a positive correlation was found between Eo/B CFUs and exposure to ETS-related VOCs during pregnancy or at 1 year of age (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE

This is the first demonstration that environmental exposures are positively associated with levels of circulating Eo/B progenitors. The recruitment and differentiation of Eo/B progenitors in response to environmental triggers may play a role in the development of skin manifestations during the first year of life.

Cord blood Tregs with stable FOXP3 expression are influenced by prenatal environment and associated with atopic dermatitis at the age of one year

BACKGROUND

Regulatory T cells (Tregs) with stable FOXP3 expression are characterized by a specific demethylated region in the FOXP3 gene (Treg-specific demethylated region, TSDR). The aim of this study was to analyse the influence of prenatal factors on cord blood Treg numbers, as detected by changes in the TSDR demethylation, and the subsequent risk for allergic diseases.

METHODS

Analyses were performed within the LINA study in blood samples from pregnant women (34th gestational week) and in cord blood (n = 346 mother-child pairs). Treg numbers were detected via DNA demethylation in the FOXP3 TSDR. At age 1, total and specific IgE was measured in children's blood. In addition, maternal cytokine production (Th1/Th2/Th17) was analysed. Exposure and disease outcomes were assessed by questionnaires.

RESULTS

Boys had lower Treg numbers compared with girls (P < 0.001). Parental atopy history, particularly maternal hay fever and paternal asthma were related to lower Treg numbers in cord blood (adj. MR = 0.81, 95% CI = 0.68-0.97; adj. MR = 0.60, 95% CI = 0.45-0.81). Maternal cytokines (IL-13, IL-17E and IFN-γ) and maternal smoking/exposure to tobacco smoke during pregnancy were also associated with decreased cord blood Treg numbers (adj. MR = 0.89, 95% CI = 0.97-1.00). Children with lower Treg numbers at birth had a higher risk to develop atopic dermatitis (adj. OR = 1.55, 95% CI = 1.00-2.41) and sensitization to food allergens (adj. OR = 1.55, 95% CI = 1.06-2.25) during the first year of life.

CONCLUSIONS

These results indicate that both genetic and environmental factors presumably influence the development of foetal Tregs. Low cord blood Treg numbers may predict early atopic dermatitis.

EULAR recommendations for vaccination in paediatric patients with rheumatic diseases

Evidence-based recommendations for vaccination of paediatric patients with rheumatic diseases (PaedRD) were developed by following the EULAR standardised procedures for guideline development. The EULAR task force consisted of (paediatric) rheumatologists/immunologists, one expert in vaccine evaluation, one expert in public health and infectious disease control, and one epidemiologist. A systematic literature review was conducted in MEDLINE, EMBASE, and abstracts of the EULAR and American College of Rheumatology meetings of 2008/9. The level of evidence and strength of recommendation were based on customary scoring systems. Delphi voting was applied to assess the level of agreement between task force members. 107 papers and eight abstracts were used. The majority of papers considered seasonal influenza (41) or pneumococcal (23) vaccination. 26 studies were performed specifically in paediatric patients, and the majority in adult rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus patients. Fifteen recommendations were developed with an overall agreement of 91.7%. More research is needed on the safety and immunogenicity of (live-attenuated) vaccination in PaedRD, particularly in those using biologicals, and the effect of vaccination on prevention of infections.

Maternal immune status in pregnancy is related to offspring's immune responses and atopy risk

BACKGROUND

The influence of maternal immune responses in pregnancy on children's immune competence and the development of atopic diseases later in life are poorly understood. To determine potential maternal effects on the maturation of children's immune system and resulting disease risks, we analysed immune responses in mother-child pairs in a prospective birth cohort study.

METHODS

Within the Lifestyle and Environmental factors and their Influence on Newborns Allergy risk (LINA) study, concentrations of Th1/Th2/Th17 and inflammatory cytokines/chemokines as well as IgE were measured in phytohemagglutinin and lipopolysaccharide stimulated maternal blood in the 34th week of gestation and in corresponding children's blood at birth and 1 year after (n = 353 mother-child pairs). Information on atopic outcomes during the first year of life was obtained from questionnaires.

RESULTS

Concentrations of inflammatory markers, excepting TNF-α, were manifold higher in cord blood samples compared with maternal blood. Th1/Th2 cytokines were lower in children's blood with a Th2 bias at birth. Maternal inflammatory parameters (MCP-1, IL-10, TNF-α) in pregnancy showed an association with corresponding cytokines blood levels in children at the age of one. High maternal IgE concentrations in pregnancy were associated with increased children's IgE at birth and at the age of one, whereas children's atopic dermatitis (AD) was determined by maternal AD.

CONCLUSIONS

Maternal inflammatory cytokines during pregnancy correlate with children's corresponding cytokines at the age of one but are not related to IgE or AD. While maternal IgE predicts children's IgE, AD in children is only associated with maternal disease.

Efficacy and safety of home-based subcutaneous immunoglobulin replacement therapy in paediatric patients with primary immunodeficiencies

Subcutaneous immunoglobulin infusions are effective, safe and well tolerated in the treatment of primary immunodeficiencies, but only limited data on the treatment of children are available. We investigated the efficacy, safety and pharmacokinetics of home therapy with a 16% liquid human immunoglobulin G preparation (Vivaglobin®) when administered subcutaneously in children with primary immunodeficiencies. Data were analysed from 22 children (2-<12 years) who participated in two prospective, open-label studies (one in Europe/Brazil, one in North America). All children had previously received intravenous immunoglobulins. They started weekly subcutaneous immunoglobulin infusions with an approximately 3-month wash-in/wash-out period, followed by a 6-month (Europe/Brazil) or 12-month (North America) efficacy evaluation period. In Europe/Brazil, subcutaneous doses generally equalled the previous weekly equivalent intravenous doses. In North America, subcutaneous doses during the efficacy evaluation period were 126% (median) of the previous weekly equivalent intravenous doses. Efficacy end-points in both studies included the occurrence of serious bacterial infections and any infections, and serum immunoglobulin G trough levels. Median serum immunoglobulin G trough levels exceeded those during previous intravenous therapy by 13% (North America) and 16% (Europe/Brazil). During the efficacy evaluation period of both studies, none of the children had a serious bacterial infection; the mean overall infection rate/patient year was 4·7 in Europe/Brazil and 5·6 in North America, concurring with previous reports in adults. The adverse event profile was comparable to previous reports in adults. Both studies confirmed the efficacy and safety of subcutaneous immunoglobulin therapy with Vivaglobin in children with primary immunodeficiencies.

Association between attendance of day care centres and increased prevalence of eczema in the German birth cohort study LISAplus

BACKGROUND

Day care centre attendance is much more common in East than in West Germany. Although there is evidence that early day care might be protective against atopic diseases, several studies have shown a higher prevalence of childhood eczema in East Germany compared to West Germany.

OBJECTIVES

To compare prevalence and cumulative incidence of eczema in a birth cohort study in East and West Germany and to identify risk factors that are associated with eczema, which might explain regional differences.

METHODS

We used data from the ongoing population-based birth cohort study Influence of Life-style factors on the development of the Immune System and Allergies in East and West Germany Plus the influence of traffic emissions and genetics. In 1997, 3097 children from study areas in East and West Germany were recruited. Cumulative incidence and 1-year prevalences of eczema up to the age of 6 years were determined from yearly questionnaires. Cox regression and generalized estimating equations/logistic regression were used to quantify regional differences and to identify risk factors that might explain them.

RESULTS

Prevalence and incidence of eczema were higher in children living in East Germany than those living in West Germany. We identified 11 risk factors that showed significant regional differences. From these factors, only 'day care attendance during the first 2 years of life' was significantly associated with eczema (odds ratio 1.56, 95% confidence interval CI 1.31-1.86). The regional differences in eczema could be explained by differences in early day care utilization.

CONCLUSION

Day care centre attendance is associated with an increased prevalence and incidence of eczema. Regional differences in eczema prevalence could be explained by regional differences in utilization of early day care.