The clinical and pathologic constellation of Wegener granulomatosis of the orbit

Ocular manifestations of ANCA-associated vasculitis

OBJECTIVES

ANCA-associated vasculitis (AAV) is a group of multisystem diseases that can have several ocular manifestations. There are published data on ocular manifestations of granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA), but few for eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA) or microscopic polyangiitis (MPA). There is little information concerning chronicity, complications, and association with other cranial manifestations of AAV.

METHODS

This study retrospectively analysed longitudinal multicentre cohorts of individuals with AAV followed between 2006 and 2022. Data included diagnosis, demographics, cranial manifestations of disease, presence of manifestations at onset of disease and/or follow-up, and ocular complications of disease. Univariate and multivariable logistic regression analysis assessed associations across disease manifestations.

RESULTS

Data from 1441 patients were analysed, including 395 with EGPA, 876 with GPA, and 170 with MPA. Ocular manifestations were seen within 23.1% of patients: 39 (9.9%) with EGPA, 287 (32.7%) with GPA, and 12 (7.1%) with MPA at any time in the disease course. There were more ocular manifestations at onset (n = 224) than during follow-up (n = 120). The most common disease-related manifestations were conjunctivitis/episcleritis and scleritis. In multivariable analysis, dacryocystitis, lacrimal duct obstruction, and retro-orbital disease were associated with sinonasal manifestations of GPA; ocular manifestations were associated with hearing loss in MPA. The most common ocular complications and/or damage seen were cataracts (n = 168) and visual impairment (n = 195).

CONCLUSION

Ocular manifestations occur in all forms of AAV, especially in GPA. Clinicians should be mindful of the wide spectrum of ocular disease in AAV, caused by active vasculitis, disease-associated damage, and toxicities of therapy.

Limited granulomatosis with polyangiitis in children with idiopathic orbital inflammation: a case series and literature review

Idiopathic orbital inflammation (IOI) is a diagnosis of exclusion, but the exclusion of other inflammatory diseases of the orbit is broad and relies on clinician experience, response to corticosteroid, or biopsy. This study aimed to investigate the presence of granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) in patients initially diagnosed as IOI and describe its clinicopathological features, ANCA status, treatment, and outcome. We performed a retrospective case series study of children diagnosed with limited GPA (L-GPA) in patients with IOI. A systematic review of the literature was performed in children with GPA and orbital mass. Eleven of 13 (85%) patients with IOI had L-GPA. Two additional patients with orbital mass and L-GPA were included in this analysis. The median age was 10 years, and 75% were female. Twelve cases were ANCA positive and 77% were MPO-pANCA positive. Most patients had a poor response to treatment and had a high relapse rate. Based on literature review, 28 cases were found. Most (78.6%) were female with a median age of 9 years. Three patients were misdiagnosed as IOI. Patients with L-GPA more frequently had MPO-pANCA positivity (35%) than children with systemic GPA (18%) and were less often PR3-cANCA positive than patients with systemic GPA (18% vs. 46%). L-GPA accounts for a high prevalence of children diagnosed as IOI. The high prevalence of MPO-pANCA observed in our study may be related to L-GPA rather than with the orbital mass. Long-term follow-up, orbital biopsy, and serial ANCA testing are necessary to exclude GPA in patients with IOI.

The Efficacy and Safety of Rituximab in ANCA-Associated Vasculitis: A Systematic Review

Background and aim: Antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis (AAV) is a rare multisystem autoimmune disease developed by autoantibody production against human neutrophilic granulocytes, including proteinase-3 (PR3) and myeloperoxidase (MPO). The management of AAV patients is difficult due to the multiorgan involvement, high rate of relapse, and complications of immunosuppressive agents that make it challenging. This study aims to investigate the efficacy and safety of rituximab (RTX) therapy in patients with granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) or microscopic polyangiitis (MPA) subtypes. Method: The PubMed/Medline database was searched for any studies related to RTX therapy in ANCA-associated vasculitis (GPA and MPA subtypes), from inception to 1 August 2022, and proceeded in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). Results: Our search resulted in 1082 initial records. After the elimination of review papers, irrelevant studies, and non-English records, 223 articles were included, and the data related to the efficacy and safety of RTX therapy were extracted. Several randomized and non-randomized studies showed that RTX is an effective treatment option for patients with AAV. Most of the studies showed the very effective effect of RTX in controlling disease in AAV patients, including pediatrics, adults, and elderlies, although RTX cannot completely prevent relapse. However, maintenance therapy helps delay the disease's relapse and causes sustained remission. Not only the licensed dose (375 mg/m² intravenous per week for 4 weeks) could induce disease remission, but studies also showed that a single infusion of RTX could be effective. Although RTX could resolve many rare manifestations in AAV patients, there are few reports showing treatment failure. Additionally, few sudies have reported the unexpeted worsening of the disease after RTX administration. Generally, RTX is relatively safe compared to conventional therapies, but some serious adverse effects, mainly infections, cytopenia, hypogammaglobinemia, malignancy, and hypersensitivity have been reported. Conclusions: RTX is an effective and relatively safe therapeutic option for AAV. Studies on the evaluation of the safety profiles of RTX and the prevention of severe RTX-related side effects in AAV patients are required.

Serum ANCA as Disease Biomarkers: Clinical Implications Beyond Vasculitis

Usually associated with autoimmune diseases, anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies are also detected in other conditions, such as infections, malignancies, and after intake of certain drugs. Even if the mechanisms of production and their pathogenic role have not been fully elucidated yet, ANCA are widely recognized as a clinically alarming finding due to their association with various disorders. While ANCA target several autoantigens, proteinase-3, and myeloperoxidase are the ones proved to be most frequently related to chronic inflammation and tissue damage in murine models. Albeit these autoantibodies could be present as an isolated observation without any implications, ANCA are frequently used in clinical practice to guide the diagnosis in a suspect of small vessel vasculitis. Conditions that should prompt the clinician to test ANCA status range from various forms of lung disease to renal or peripheral nervous system impairment. ANCA positivity in the presence of an autoimmune disease, especially rheumatoid arthritis, or connective tissue diseases, is frequently correlated with more clinical complications and treatment inefficacy, even in the absence of signs of vasculitis. For this reason, it has been postulated that ANCA could represent the final expression of an immune dysregulation rather than a pathogenic event responsible for organs damage. Recently, it has also been proposed that ANCA specificity (PR3 or MPO) could possibly define ANCA-associated vasculitides better than clinical phenotype. This review aims at summarizing the latest advancements in the field of ANCA study and clinical interpretation.

Autoimmune markers in screening for orbital inflammatory disease

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.

[ANCA-associated small-vessel vasculitides]

ANCA-associated vasculitides refer to systemic small-vessel vasculitides. The paper shows the role of antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies in the development of immune inflammation of blood vessels and tissues. It considers the pathogenesis of granulomatosis with polyangiitis and eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis and presents the clinical and morphological manifestations of the diseases.

Rare Diseases of the Orbit

This article provides an overview of rare orbital diseases. Congenital malformations, inflammatory diseases, benign and malignant neoplasias are described. Although it represents a relatively small area of the body the orbit contains multiple different tissues. Therefore, a great variety of diseases can be found within the orbital space. That is the reason, why both the completeness and the level of detail in the description of particular diseases must be somewhat limited. Nevertheless, clinical manifestations, important aspects of diagnosis, treatment strategies, and, when specific data are available, the prognosis are described. The authors tried to highlight the most characteristic aspects of the different diseases to describe their relevant aspects in spite of the brevity of the subsections.

Wegener's granulomatosis with orbital involvement: case report and literature review

Objective: To describe the chronology and the extent of orbital involvement in a case of granulomatosis with polyangiitis.

Methods: Descriptive case report and literature review.

Results: A 45-year-old patient, formerly diagnosed with granulomatosis with polyangiitis due to otorhinolaryngologic manifestations, pulmonary lesions, renal impairment, left knee arthritis and high blood levels of antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies, addressed the Ophthalmology Department in November 2020, having the following complaints: left eye mild retro-orbital discomfort, proptosis and epiphora.

On examination, Snellen’s best corrected visual acuity was 6/ 6 in both eyes. The anterior segment of the left eye displayed significant changes: proptosis, upper lid swelling, ptosis, slightly decreased ocular motility, mild conjunctival hyperemia and chemosis, thinning of sclera in the upper quadrant and mild posterior subcapsular cataract. Left eye funduscopy revealed a slightly elevated optic disc, with indistinct margins in the nasal quadrant. Spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (OCT) of the optic nerve confirmed the clinical findings, illustrating an increase in the retinal nerve fiber layers thickness in the nasal quadrant, with no corresponding visual field defect. The orbit magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) unveiled an intraconal mass surrounding the optic nerve on its entire intra-orbital path, confirming the diagnosis of left orbital granuloma.

Conclusion: Considering the relapsing disease and the orbital involvement, the patient is currently a candidate for rituximab, a monoclonal antibody against CD20.

Abbreviations: AAV = ANCA associated vasculitides, ANCA = antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody, AOM = acute otitis media, BCVA = best corrected visual acuity, CRP = C-reactive protein, CT = computerized tomography, EGPA = eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis, ENT = otorhinolaryngology/ ear-nose-throat, ESR = erythrocyte sedimentation rate, GPA = granulomatosis with polyangiitis, LE = left eye, MPA = microscopic polyangiitis, MRI = magnetic resonance imaging, OCT = optical coherence tomography, RE = right eye, RNFL = retinal nerve fiber layers, TNF = tumor necrosis factor, WG = Wegener’s granulomatosis

Rituximab Versus Cyclophosphamide for Central Nervous System Involvement of Antineutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibody-Associated Vasculitis: A Case Series

OBJECTIVE

To compare the effectiveness of rituximab (RTX) with cyclophosphamide (CYC) in patients who have central nervous system (CNS) involvement in antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis (AAV).

METHODS

A computer-assisted search was conducted to identify all adults who received a diagnosis of AAV with CNS involvement from January 1, 1997, through July 1, 2017, at our institution.

RESULTS

Of the 17 patients identified, 11 had received RTX, and 6 had received CYC. Age at diagnosis of CNS involvement was similar in both groups. In the RTX group, 91% of the patients were women; in the CYC group, 33% were women (p = 0.03). At the time of CNS presentation, orbital involvement had occurred in 6 patients in the RTX group and in none of the patients in the CYC group. Initial remission of induction was achieved in all patients (100%) in the CYC group and in 10 patients (91%) in the RTX group. Two patients had no response to RTX: 1 patient when RTX was used for remission induction at the time of diagnosis and the second patient when RTX was used for remission induction after relapse. The median follow-up was 38 months (range, 9-127 months). Central nervous system relapse occurred in 4 patients in the RTX group and in 1 patient in the CYC group. Of the 4 patients in the RTX group with relapse, 3 had marked ocular involvement. Both nonresponder patients in the RTX group had ocular involvement.

CONCLUSION

Rituximab is as effective as CYC in remission induction in patients with CNS involvement in AAV.

Radiotherapy of granulomatosis with polyangiitis occurring in the eyelid: A case report and literature review

INTRODUCTION

Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) is a chronic systemic vasculitis characterized by necrotizing granulomatous vasculitis. The disease mainly affects the middle and small blood vessels and mainly occurs in the upper respiratory tract (nose and paranasal sinuses), lower respiratory tract (lungs), and kidneys. Disease occurrence in the eyelid area is relatively rare. The standard GPA treatment is combination therapy with adrenocortical hormone and immunosuppressants. Radiotherapy as a treatment option for GPA has not been widely investigated.

PATIENT CONCERNS

A 29-year-old man presented with a 1.0 × 1.0 cm mass without exophthalmos and decreased vision in the left lower eyelid. Computed tomography revealed a mass-like high-density shadow below the left eye with a computed tomography value of 80-108 U.

DIAGNOSIS

The laboratory investigations revealed positive cytoplasmic antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (titer = 1:40). Biopsy of the lower left eyelid mass revealed necrosis and granulomatous reaction with a large number of inflammatory cell infiltration. After consultation with the pathology department, the diagnosis was determined as left lower eyelid GPA.

INTERVENTIONS

The patient received 9MeV electron beam radiation therapy in the area of the left lower eyelid lesion.

OUTCOMES

The lesion in the patient was significantly reduced and the symptom relieved obviously. No symptom recurrence or significant toxicity occurred during or after the treatment. The patient remains under routine follow-up.

CONCLUSION

We present a case of a male patient with GPA located exclusively in the eyelid area, who underwent successful radiotherapy and achieved a complete response. The lesson we learned from this case study is that for GPA patients, when the standard treatment model fails to achieve good results, novel treatments such as radiotherapy should be considered according to the situation.

Refractory optic perineuritis related to granulomatosis with polyangiitis treated with intensive immunosuppressive therapy combined with plasma exchange

Optic perineuritis (OPN), which is an inflammatory disorder affecting the optic nerve sheath, is one of the rare complications in granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA). Although several groups have reported that immunosuppressive therapies are generally effective against GPA-associated OPN, so far, there is little information as to other options for refractory cases. Here we demonstrate a case of GPA-associated OPN, which is refractory to potent immunosuppressive therapy including high-dose glucocorticoid, intravenous cyclophosphamide and rituximab therapy, and effective application of therapeutic plasma exchange. We also report here that CSF IL-6 levels may serve as a new biomarker for GPA-associated OPN.

Orbital mass in ANCA-associated vasculitides: data on clinical, biological, radiological and histological presentation, therapeutic management, and outcome from 59 patients

Objective

Orbital mass is a rare and sight-threatening manifestation of ANCA-associated vasculitides, which remains a therapeutic challenge. We aimed to describe the presentation, therapeutic management and outcome of ANCA-associated vasculitides-related orbital mass.

Methods

We conducted a French nationwide retrospective study of patients with orbital mass in the setting of ANCA-associated vasculitides according to ACR criteria and/or Chapel Hill Consensus Conference definitions.

Results

Fifty-nine patients [33 women, median age 46 (range 7–90) years] were included. Fifty-six (95%) patients had granulomatosis with polyangiitis, two eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis and one microscopic polyangiitis. Orbital mass was unilateral in 47 (80%) cases, and seemed to develop from ENT involvement in most cases. Orbital mass biopsy was available in 32 (54%) patients, showing lymphoplasmacytic infiltration in 65%, fibrosis in 55%, granulomas in 48% and vasculitis in 36%. All patients but one received glucocorticoids as first-line therapy associated with immunosuppressive agents in 82%, mainly cyclophosphamide. Response to therapy was noted in 52% of patients treated with cyclophosphamide compared with 91% of those treated with rituximab. Twenty-seven (46%) patients required a second-line therapy because of relapse (59%) or refractory course (41%). Sequelae included visual impairment in 28%, with definitive blindness in 17%. Refractory course was associated with PR3-ANCA positivity, visual loss and contiguous pachymeningitis.

Conclusion

Orbital mass is associated with refractory course and high frequency of sequelae, especially blindness. Refractory course is associated with PR3-ANCA positivity, visual loss and contiguous pachymeningitis.

Orbital granulomatosis with polyangiitis masquerading as invasive fungal sinusitis

A 55-year-old man presented with unilateral orbital inflammation and no light perception vision. Imaging revealed infiltrative enhancement of the optic nerve, orbit, and intracranial tissue. The case was suspicious for invasive fungal disease, but ultimate workup and orbital biopsy revealed granulomatosis with polyangiitis. The patient's inflammation resolved with corticosteroid and rituximab therapy. Granulomatosis with polyangiitis is a systemic vasculitis that can mimic a number of orbital pathologies.

Orbital Granulomatosis With Polyangiitis Mimicking IgG4-Related Disease in a 12-Year-Old Male

Granulomatosis with polyangiitis is rare in children. We report a case of a 12-year-old male who presented with new symptoms of left eyelid swelling and ptosis. Magnetic resonance imaging showed an enhancing orbital mass suspicious for a neoplasm. Excisional biopsy was performed. Microscopic examination revealed fibrovascular tissue with dense collagenous fibrosis and mixed inflammatory infiltrate that included many plasma cells. Many small and medium-sized blood vessels showed granulomatous and necrotizing vasculitis with disruption of the vessel walls and fibrinoid necrosis. Immunostain for IgG highlighted the numerous plasma cells, approximately 50% of which were positive for IgG4 immunostain. A diagnosis of granulomatosis with polyangiitis was suggested, with recommendation of serologic testing for anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies. Serum anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies were borderline high with a cytoplasmic staining pattern. The patient improved with steroid and methotrexate therapy. Granulomatosis with polyangiitis can present as an orbital mass in up to 30% of children. It may be misdiagnosed as IgG4-related disease since the inflammatory background in both conditions may be rich in plasma cells with a high proportion of IgG4+ plasma cells, and accompanied by fibrosis and obliterated blood vessels. The differential diagnosis in this location should also include inflammatory pseudotumor and inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor. Knowledge of this unusual manifestation of granulomatosis with polyangiitis and its diagnostic pitfalls can facilitate early diagnosis and treatment.

Clinical characteristics of inflammatory ocular disease in anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody associated vasculitis: a retrospective cohort study

Objective

To characterize the clinical correlates and outcome of inflammatory ocular disease (IOD) among patients with ANCA-associated vasculitides (AAV).

Methods

Medical records of potential cases of AAV seen at Mayo Clinic from 2003 to 2013, inclusive, were reviewed to identify confirmed cases meeting the diagnosis of AAV using the Chapel Hill Consensus Conference 2012 descriptors. Records of confirmed cases of AAV were then further reviewed for IOD, and clinical characteristics, treatment and outcomes abstracted.

Results

A total of 1171 confirmed cases of AAV were identified of which 183 patients (mean age 49.0 years; 51% female; 95% Caucasian) had IOD. The most common manifestation of IOD was injection of the eye (57%) followed by eye pain (46%) and visual acuity loss (18%). Scleritis was the most common type of IOD (22%) followed by episcleritis (21%), orbital inflammation (18%), lacrimal duct stenosis (10%) and uveitis (9%). Oral glucocorticoids were used to treat IOD in the majority of patients (96%). CYC and rituximab were the most frequently used immunosuppressive agents (54 and 36%, respectively). Of those with orbital inflammation, 52% underwent therapeutic surgical intervention. Clinical remission of IOD was achieved in 91% of patients but relapses were seen in 23%. Significant visual acuity loss was observed in only six patients.

Conclusion

IOD is a common manifestation of AAV and seen in about 16% of patients with AAV. Scleritis, episcleritis and orbital inflammation are the most common subtypes. Most patients respond well to glucocorticoids and immunosuppression, but relapse of IOD is common.

The role of biopsy in lacrimal gland inflammation: A clinicopathologic study

PURPOSE

To determine the causes of lacrimal gland inflammation based on histopathology and systemic evaluation.

METHODS

This is a retrospective case series study. From the University of British Columbia Orbit Clinic between January 1976 and December 2008, we reviewed the medical records of 60 patients who presented with inflammatory features of the lacrimal gland (i.e., erythema, edema, or tenderness) in which the diagnoses were not possible clinically and on imaging alone. As was our routine practice, all these patients underwent lacrimal gland biopsy before starting any treatment.

RESULTS

The histopathologic findings of the 60 patients showed that 37 (61.7%) had identifiable types of lacrimal inflammation including 10 with Sjogren's syndrome, seven with sarcoidal reaction, six with feature of granulomatosis with polyangiitis (formerly known as Wegener's granulomatosis), five with lymphoma, two with sclerosing inflammation, two with IgG4-related dacryoadenitis, and one patient each with infectious dacryoadenitis, myoepithelial carcinoma, xanthogranuloma, eosinophilic angiocentric fibrosis, and eosinophilic allergic granulomatous nodule. The histopathologic findings of the remaining 23 (38.3%) patients showed nonspecific inflammation of the lacrimal gland. 23 patients (38.3%) had associated systemic diseases. 48 patients (80%) were treated successfully and 10 (16.7%) had recurrence of inflammation.

CONCLUSIONS

We recommend that in patients presenting with lacrimal gland inflammation (i.e., erythema, edema, tenderness) in which the specific diagnosis cannot be made clinically and on imaging, biopsy is warranted for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. We found that the majority of these patients (61.7%) had specific histopathology, and 38% had systemic diseases.

Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (Wegener's disease): An updated review of ocular disease manifestations

Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) is a potentially lethal systemic disorder that is characterized by necrotizing vasculitis of small arteries and veins. The respiratory system is most commonly affected in limited forms of the disease, however upper and lower respiratory system, systemic vasculitis, and necrotizing glomerulonephritis are the characteristic components of the disease triad. The peak incidence is observed at 64-75 years of age, with a prevalence of 8-10 per million depending on geographic location. In this review we focus on the ocular manifestations of the disease which occur in nearly in one third of the patients. In addition we describe the neuro-ophthalmic complications which occur in up to half of cases. We also discuss the current systemic treatment options including corticosteroids, cyclophosphamide, azathioprine, and the available biologic response modifiers including rituximab. The disease remains difficult to diagnose due to the generalized symptomatic presentation of patients with GPA. As a result, several sets of diagnostic criteria have been developed which include clinical, serological, and histopathological findings to varying extents. Early diagnosis and multi-specialty collaboration among physicians is necessary to adequately manage the disease and the potential complications that may result from drugs used in the treatment of the disease. Despite recent advances, more research is necessary to prevent the high rates of mortality from the disease itself and from therapeutic side effects.

The many facets of dacryoadenitis

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To review the spectrum of lacrimal gland inflammation, with particular reference to the old condition, idiopathic dacryoadenitis, and the new, immunoglobulin G4 (IgG4)-related dacryoadenitis.

RECENT FINDINGS

Idiopathic dacryoadenitis remains the most common inflammatory lesion of the lacrimal gland, for which surgical treatment is successful. There is mounting evidence that the presence of IgG4-positive plasma cells in a lacrimal gland specimen is nonspecific, for being found in other inflammatory lacrimal gland lesions, even lymphoproliferative ones. To identify IgG4-related dacryoadenitis, particularly when there is no documented disease elsewhere, the criteria have been strengthened toward abundant IgG4-positive plasma cell counting.

SUMMARY

The gold standard of diagnosis of noninfectious lacrimal gland inflammation is tissue biopsying, which is commonly therapeutic in the case of idiopathic dacryoadenitis. Although it was initially suggested that IgG4-related dacryoadenitis is a possible cause of idiopathic dacryoadenitis, it becomes obvious that it has more resemblance to the lymphoproliferative tumors.

The ying and yang of fever in rheumatic disease

Fevers are relatively common in rheumatic disease, largely due to the fact that the inflammatory process is driven by inflammatory mediators that function as endogenous pyrogens. Since the immune system's sensors cannot accurately distinguish between endogenous and exogenous (pathogen-derived) pyrogens a major challenge for physicians and rheumatologists has been to decipher patterns of clinical signs and symptoms to inform clinical decision making. Here we describe some of the common pitfalls and clinical challenges, and highlight the importance of a systematic approach to investigating the rheumatic disease patient presenting with fever.

Orbital granulomatosis with polyangiitis (Wegener granulomatosis): clinical and pathologic findings

The pathology of granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA), formerly Wegener granulomatosis, typically features a granulomatous and sometimes necrotizing vasculitis targeting the respiratory tract and kidneys. However, orbital involvement occurs in up to 60% of patients and is frequently the first or only clinical presentation in patients with systemic or limited forms of GPA. Orbital GPA can cause significant morbidity and potentially lead to complete loss of vision and permanent facial deformity. Fortunately, GPA is highly responsive to medical treatment with corticosteroids combined with cyclophosphamide or, more recently, rituximab. Therefore, it is imperative for this disease to be accurately diagnosed on orbital biopsy and distinguished from other histologically similar orbital lesions. Herein, we review the clinical and pathologic findings of orbital GPA, focusing on the differentiation of this disease from other inflammatory orbital lesions.

Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (Wegener): clinical aspects and treatment

Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) is a systemic necrotizing vasculitis, which affects small- and medium-sized blood vessels and is often associated with cytoplasmic ANCA. GPA occurs in patients between 45 and 60 years old of both genders, and is rarely observed in blacks. The prevalence of GPA increases along a south-north gradient in Europe (20 to 150/million). The main clinical characteristics involve the upper and/or lower respiratory tract and kidneys. Ear, nose and throat manifestations with recurrent sinusitis and crusting rhinorrhea are usually severe. Lung nodules are frequently seen, sometimes excavated. Renal involvement is characterized by rapidly progressive necrotizing glomerulonephritis with extracapillary crescents. Limited forms of GPA predominantly affect the upper respiratory tract, whereas generalized forms of GPA include renal manifestations and/or alveolar hemorrhage and/or vital organ involvement with an altered general condition. The combination of immunosuppressant drugs and corticosteroids has converted this typically fatal illness into one in which 80% of patients achieve remission. However, despite considerable therapeutic progress over the last decades, relapses remain frequent (50% at 5 years), and maintenance treatment is now the main therapeutic challenge.

Granulomatosis with polyangiitis presenting as an orbital inflammatory pseudotumor: a case report

INTRODUCTION

Granulomatosis with polyangiitis is a systemic inflammatory disease that often presents with necrosis, granuloma formation and vasculitis of small- to medium-sized vessels. Affected patients usually present with disease of the upper respiratory tract, lungs and kidneys, but this disease has been reported to involve almost any organ. We report the case of a patient with ocular manifestations of granulomatosis with polyangiitis after the remission of renal and auditory manifestations.

CASE PRESENTATION

An 81-year-old Japanese woman had a four-year history of biopsy-proven antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-related glomerulonephritis that had been treated with oral prednisolone and was in serological remission. She had also recovered from a one-year history of complete hearing loss immediately following the steroid treatment for glomerulonephritis. She gradually experienced right eye visual disturbance and exophthalmos over a two-month period. Radiographic and histopathological findings revealed an orbital inflammatory pseudotumor. The administration of prednisolone completely restored her right eye visual acuity and eye movement after two weeks. Considering this case retrospectively, our patient had an orbital inflammatory pseudotumor caused by granulomatosis with polyangiitis including a medical history of reversible hearing loss, although her glomerulonephritis had remitted with an undetectable level of specific antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody.

CONCLUSIONS

In this patient, hearing loss and visual loss occurred at different times during the course of treatment of granulomatosis with polyangiitis. Clinicians should consider a differential diagnosis of granulomatosis with polyangiitis in patients with treatable hearing and visual loss.

Non-infectious orbital vasculitides

Non-infectious vasculitides comprise a large number of diseases. Many of these diseases can cause inflammation within the orbit and a clinical presentation, which mimics numerous other processes. Orbital disease can often be the initial presentation of a systemic process and early diagnosis can help prevent long-term, potentially fatal consequences. The evaluation and treatment of non-infectious orbital vasculitides are often complicated and require a thorough understanding of the disease and underlying systemic associations. The long-term prognosis visually and systemically must be weighed against the risks and benefits of the treatment regimen. A large variety of corticosteroid formulations currently exist and are the mainstay of initial treatment. Traditional steroid-sparing immunosuppressive agents are also an important arsenal against these vasculitides. Recently, a new class of drugs called biologics, which target the various mediators of the inflammation cascade, may potentially provide more effective and less toxic treatment. This review aims to synthesize the current literature on non-infectious orbital vasculitides.

The globe: infection, inflammation, and systemic disease

Infection, inflammation, and systemic diseases affecting the globe encompass a broad range of pathologies which may ultimately lead to progressive vision loss. Clinical symptomatology varies from the inexorably silent progressive visual loss to an acute presentation of ocular pain and/or red eye. Most are diagnosed by clinical ophthalmologic examination with selective use of ultrasound, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging for confirmation of the diagnosis, assessment of disease extent, and signs of associated systemic disease. Knowledge of the differential diagnoses of vision loss, ocular pain, and redness makes imaging analysis of this diverse group of processes more precise.

Primary Wegener's granulomatosis of the orbital apex with initial optic nerve infiltration

Wegener's granulomatosis can involve the orbit and sometimes the optic nerve. This usually occurs as a result of contiguous spread from affected sinuses or extraocular muscles, or from a vasculitic posterior optic neuropathy. However, we present an unusual case of isolated orbital apex infiltrative disease in a patient with known Wegener's granulomatosis. This initially caused painless optic neuropathy and progressed to painful ophthalmoplegia and blindness. Optic nerve biopsy, performed to exclude methotrexate-induced lymphoma, confirmed optic nerve infiltration. The condition was refractory to high-dose pulsed methylprednisolone but the patient gained symptomatic relief from rituximab. Wegener's granulomatosis should be considered in cases of isolated posterior optic neuropathy, and close attention should be placed on imaging the orbital apex.

Ocular manifestations of ANCA-associated vasculitis

The antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitides-Wegener's granulomatosis, microscopic polyangiitis, and Churg-Strauss syndrome-can present with various ophthalmic manifestations. In a subset of patients, these findings may be the earliest indicators of systemic disease. Orbital and anterior segment findings are most common, whereas posterior segment complications such as retinal vasculitis and optic neuropathy occur much less frequently. This article describes the distinguishing features of associated ophthalmic disease, focusing on the manifestations clinicians are most likely to encounter and those with the most significant ocular morbidity. Although the ANCA-associated vasculitides require systemic workup and treatment, this article discusses diagnostic and therapeutic modalities often used concurrently for ophthalmic disease.

Headache attributable to disorders of the eye

Sensory innervation to the eye and periocular area arises from the ophthalmic branch of the trigeminal nerve. Thus, ocular, orbital, and systemic disorders may produce head pain with ocular signs and symptoms. Whereas some of these entities have characteristic diagnostic features, others mimic primary headache disorders such as migraine and cluster headache. This article reviews common ocular and neuro-ophthalmic conditions that are accompanied by pain in or near the eye.

Surgical interventions and local therapy for Wegener's granulomatosis

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review discusses the use of interventional procedures to treat manifestations of Wegener's granulomatosis caused by tissue damage and scarring. These manifestations include nasal and paranasal sinus disease, middle ear inflammation, nasolacrimal duct obstruction, orbital inflammatory masses, subglottic stenosis, tracheobronchial disease, and end-stage renal disease.

RECENT FINDINGS

Tissue damage caused by inflammation or a cicatricial process represents one of the major sources of morbidity for patients with Wegener's granulomatosis. Some of these manifestations require special interventions used alone or in combination with conventional medical treatment. These interventional procedures may include surgical or endoscopic repair of altered tissue, replacement of damaged organs, or the delivery of topical or injectable medications directly to the site of disease. Distinguishing symptoms caused by active disease from symptoms caused by tissue scarring is challenging and may play a critical role regarding the use of systemic immunosuppressive medications in combination with interventional therapy.

SUMMARY

Interventional procedures are indicated in certain manifestations of Wegener's granulomatosis. Distinguishing active Wegener's granulomatosis from inactive Wegener's granulomatosis and recognizing disease manifestations that may be amenable to local interventions can greatly improve the quality of life of patients. However, the evidence supporting the use of many of these interventions is based on small case series or individual reports.

Infrequent bilateral orbital tumors and simulating lesions: the experience of a Chinese institute

PURPOSE

To determine the types, frequency, and clinical features of infrequent bilateral orbital lesions.

METHODS

We reviewed 41 cases of either histopathologically or radiologically verified bilateral orbital lesions. The number and entities in each category were recorded. Clinical data and imaging findings were reviewed.

RESULTS

The number and percentage of lesions in each general category were leukemia lesions in eight patients (19.5%), metastatic tumors in seven (17%), optic nerve and meningeal tumors in six (14.6%), secondary tumors in six (14.6%), peripheral nerve lesions in four (9.8%), inflammatory lesions in four (9.8%), and vasculogenic, histiocytic, and miscellaneous lesions, each in two patients (4.9%). These lesions occurred in both childhood and adulthood, but were infrequent in people over 60 years old. Of all cases, 51.2% were benign and 48.8% were malignant. The ocular symptoms and signs presented unilaterally in 18 (43.9%) cases and bilaterally in 23 (56.1%). Of the 15 patients with either metastatic tumors or blood disorders, two (13.3%) had a history of primary neoplasm at presentation. In 19 (46.3%) cases, the configuration of the bilateral lesions was symmetrical, and they were of equal size. Computed tomography scans revealed bone changes in 13 patients (31.7%), while magnetic resonance imaging revealed intracranial extension in nine (22%).

CONCLUSIONS

Varied lesions can involve the bilateral orbits simultaneously or on follow-up. Through the combination of history, bilateral ocular manifestations, radiologic findings, and systemic examinations, the correct diagnosis can be made, which is valuable for early identification of both metastasis and blood disorders.

Ocular disease in patients with ANCA-positive vasculitis

Anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-positive vasculitis-the term recently applied to Wegener's granulomatosis-is a rare multi-system inflammation characterized by necrotizing granulomas and vasculitis. We investigated the ocular manifestations of this disease in a group of patients drawn from five inflammatory eye disease clinics across the United States. Of 8,562 persons with ocular inflammation, 59 individuals were diagnosed with ANCA-positive vasculitis; 35 males and 21 females, aged 16 to 96 years, were included in this study. Ocular diagnoses were scleritis (75.0%), uveitis (17.9%), and other ocular inflammatory conditions (33.9%) including peripheral ulcerative keratitis and orbital pseudotumor. Mean duration of ocular disease was 4.6 years. Oral corticosteroids and other systemic immunosuppressive agents were used by 85.7% and 78.5% of patients, respectively. Over time, patients with ANCA-positive vasculitis experienced 2.75-fold higher mortality than other patients with inflammatory eye disease.

Sclerosing Wegener's granulomatosis in the orbit

PURPOSE

To report three cases of sclerosing Wegener's granulomatosis in the orbit and to compare the histopathological morphology with those of other types of sclerosing orbital inflammation.

METHODS

We analysed the clinical data along with histopathological specimens from orbital biopsies and from two enucleated eyes.

RESULTS

All three patients had longstanding inflammation in the orbit and involvement of the paranasal sinuses. Proptosis, impaired ocular motility and reduced visual acuity dominated the clinical picture. All histopathological specimens featured granulomatous inflammation, tissue necrosis, vasculitis and widespread dense fibrosis. In certain areas of all specimens the fibrous tissue was arranged in characteristic concentric, onionskin-like whorls of collagen around obliterated small blood vessels.

CONCLUSIONS

Wegener's granulomatosis may lead to orbital fibrosis and sclerosis. The stromal changes and cellular infiltrate resemble the non-specific orbital inflammation previously termed orbital pseudotumour. We present the first 'onionskin' lesions in association with Wegener's granulomatosis in the orbit. This latter morphology may represent an abnormal fibrotic reaction in inflammatory tissue.

A complex orbit

Wegener's Granulomatosis (WG) in its limited form can be a challenging diagnosis. ANCA, radiological investigations and histology should be interpreted in light of clinical findings. A delay in diagnosis can have profound visual consequences. Immunosuppressive therapy and co-morbidities can mask signs of orbital sepsis. A low threshold for further exploration and biopsy should be maintained if an orbital abscess is suspected. This report describes a complex case of WG that illustrates the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges inherent in this form of orbital inflammatory disease.

Non-traumatic enophthalmos: a review

Enophthalmos can be defined as a relative, posterior displacement of a normal-sized globe in relation to the bony orbital margin. Non-traumatic enophthalmos has a wide variety of clinical presentations and may be the first manifestation of a number of local or systemic conditions. It may present with cosmetic problems such as deep superior sulcus, pseudoptosis or eyelid retraction; or functional problems such as diplopia or exposure keratopathy. There are three main pathogenic mechanisms: structural alterations in the bony orbit; orbital fat atrophy; and retraction. Evaluation of enophthalmos patients includes orbital imaging and a thorough ophthalmic and systemic examination. In this review, we discuss the presenting features of non-traumatic enophthalmos and include a brief description of the more important causes. An approach to the clinical evaluation of these patients is also discussed together with a brief overview of the principles of management.

Ocular involvement as the initial manifestation of Wegener's granulomatosis in children

Ophthalmic manifestations are noted in about 50% of adults with Wegener's granulomatosis. Wegener's granulomatosis is a rare disease in the pediatric age group. The disease may present initially with ocular manifestations. We report the largest series to date of children whose ocular findings were the initial presenting signs of Wegener's granulomatosis.

Orbital Inflammatory Disease

OBJECTIVES

To familiarize rheumatologists and internists with the signs, symptoms, and management of orbital inflammatory disease (OID).

METHODS

A comprehensive literature review related to OID was performed and reported from the perspectives of rheumatology, ophthalmology, and radiology.

RESULTS

OID is a general term encompassing inflammatory diseases that affect some or all of the structures contained within the orbit external to the globe. Orbital involvement as a part of the initial symptom complex is not uncommon for systemic diseases such as Graves' disease, Wegener's granulomatosis, and sarcoidosis. The management of these and other causes of OID, such as idiopathic orbital inflammation (formerly known as "orbital pseudotumor"), orbital myositis, and Tolosa-Hunt syndrome frequently involves systemic immunosuppression. Before immunosuppression is considered, however, infectious and malignant causes of inflammation must be ruled out.

DISCUSSION

Rheumatologists should be familiar with the differential diagnosis of OID and often need to assist colleagues in ophthalmology and internal medicine with the management of this group of diseases.

Diagnosis of limited ophthalmic wegener granulomatosis: distinctive pathologic features with ANCA test confirmation

PURPOSE

To describe the clinical and histopathologic finding of very limited ophthalmic Wegener granulomatosis (WG).

METHODS

Thirteen patients with scleritis, orbitopathy, episcleritis, and panuveitis were studied. They presented without evidence of lung or kidney disease, though eight had sinus involvement. We reviewed the biopsies for histopathologic findings consistent with WG, and tested for antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA).

RESULTS

WG was suggested by granulomatous foci, collagen necrosis, neutrophils/nuclear dust, plasma cells and infiltrating eosinophils. Granular degeneration of the interstitial collagen; mummification of the collagen with disappearance of fibroblastic nuclei; and a polymorphous infiltrate exhibiting plasma cells, lymphocytes, neutrophils, and eosinophils within the epithelioid granulomas should suggest the diagnosis. ANCA test results supported the diagnosis of WG in all cases.

CONCLUSION

The described histologic characteristics are highly suggestive of WG. These findings along with clinical or laboratory findings, allow the diagnosis of very limited ophthalmic WG in the absence of systemic involvement.