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D’Auria E, Minutoli M, Colombo A, Sartorio MUA, Zunica F, Zuccotti G, Lougaris V. Allergy and autoimmunity in children: non-mutually exclusive diseases. A narrative review. Front Pediatr 2023; 11:1239365. [PMID: 38027278 PMCID: PMC10652575 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2023.1239365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
In last decades a simultaneous increase in the prevalence of atopic and autoimmune disorders in pediatric population has been observed. Despite the Th1-Th2 paradigm, supporting the polarization of the immune system with Th1 response involved in autoimmune diseases and Th2 response leading to hypersensitivity reactions, recent evidence suggests a possible coexistence of common pathogenic pathways as result of shared immune dysregulation. Similar genes and other mechanisms such as epithelial barrier damage, gut microbiota dysbiosis and reduced number of T regs and IL-10 contribute to the onset of allergy and autoimmunity. IgA deficiency is also hypothesized to be the crosslink between celiac disease and allergy by lowering gut mucous membrane protection from antigens and allergens. The present narrative review aims to give an overview of the co-occurrence of allergic and autoimmune disorders (celiac disease, inflammatory bowel diseases, type 1 diabetes mellitus, thyroid disease, juvenile idiopathic arthritis) in pediatric population, based on the available evidence. We also highlighted the common pathogenic pathways that may underpin both. Our findings confirm that allergic and autoimmune diseases are commonly associated, and clinicians should therefore be aware of the possible coexistence of these conditions in order to ameliorate disease management and patient care. Particular attention should be paid to the association between atopic dermatitis or asthma and celiac disease or type 1 diabetes and vice versa, for therapeutic interventions. Further studies are needed to better clarify mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis and eventually identify new therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enza D’Auria
- Department of Pediatrics, Vittore Buzzi Children’s Hospital, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Martina Minutoli
- Department of Pediatrics, Vittore Buzzi Children’s Hospital, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandra Colombo
- Department of Pediatrics, Vittore Buzzi Children’s Hospital, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Fiammetta Zunica
- Department of Pediatrics, Vittore Buzzi Children’s Hospital, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Gianvincenzo Zuccotti
- Department of Pediatrics, Vittore Buzzi Children’s Hospital, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Vassilios Lougaris
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, ASST – Spedali Civili di Brescia, Paediatrics Clinic and Institute for Molecular Medicine A. Nocivelli, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
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Meng Y, Xu Y, Liu J, Qin X. Early warning signs of thyroid autoantibodies seroconversion: A retrospective cohort study. Clin Chim Acta 2023; 545:117365. [PMID: 37105454 DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2023.117365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Revised: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Serum anti-thyroid peroxidase antibody (anti-TPO) and anti-thyroglobulin antibody (anti-Tg) levels are key indicators for the diagnosis of autoimmune diseases, especially autoimmune thyroiditis. Before the thyroid autoantibodies turn from negative to positive, it is unknown whether any clinical indicators in the body play a warning role. PURPOSE To establish an early prediction model of seroconversion to positive thyroid autoantibodies. METHODS This retrospective cohort study collected information based on clinical laboratory data. A logistic regression model was used to analyse the risk factors associated with a change in thyroid autoantibodies to an abnormal status. A machine-learning approach was employed to establish an early warning model, and a nomogram was used for model performance assessment and visualisation. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, calibration curves, and decision curve analyses were used for internal and external validation. RESULTS Logistic regression analysis revealed that albumin to globulin ratio, triglyceride levels, and Glutamic acid levels among liver function and some metabolism-related indicators, high density lipoprotein C among metabolism-related indicators, and cystatin C among renal function indicators were all risk factors for thyroid antibody conversion (P<0.05). In addition, several indicators in the blood count correlated with thyroid conversion (P<0.05). Changes in the ratio of free thyroxine to free triiodothyronine were a risk factor for positive thyroid antibody conversion (ORfT4/fT3=1.763; 95% confidence interval 1.554-2.000). The area under the curve (AUC) of the early warning model based on the positive impact of clinical laboratory indicators, age, and sex was 0.85, which was validated by both internal (AUC 0.8515) and external (AUC 0.8378) validation. CONCLUSIONS The early warning model of anti-TPO and anti-Tg conversion combined with some clinical laboratory indicators in routine physical examination has a stable warning efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Meng
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Shenyang, Liaoning, People's Republic of China
| | - Yaozheng Xu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Shenyang, Liaoning, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianhua Liu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Shenyang, Liaoning, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaosong Qin
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Shenyang, Liaoning, People's Republic of China.
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Dermendzhiev S, Dzhambov A, Dermendzhiev T. Angioedema in a Patient with Autoimmune Thyroiditis – A Case Report. Acta Medica Bulgarica 2020; 47:34-7. [DOI: 10.2478/amb-2020-0021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
We present a case of a 29-year-old Bulgarian woman with autoimmune thyroiditis and recurrent angioedema. The patient presented with a one-year-long history of recurrent angioedema and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. Physical examination showed oedema surrounded by erythema on the forearms, and erythematous, itchy plaques spreading over her face, neck, chest, abdomen, and extremities. Blood tests showed elevated total immunoglobulin E (IgE). The patient had been diagnosed with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and hypothyroidism. She had been taking levothyroxine 50 μg/d, resulting in a good hormonal control; however, her anti-thyroid peroxidase (anti-TPO) antibodies were high. She was started on methylprednisolone and antihistamines. In three weeks, we observed a good therapeutic response to the treatment and the lesions remitted. IgE dropped within normal range. Levels of anti-TPO antibodies were persistently high. In conclusion, patients with angioedema should be tested for thyroid autoimmunity. Further delve into the pathogenesis of angioedema in them is warranted in order to explore the possibility of an underlying atopy in those not responding to the standard treatment with levothyroxine.
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Shahbaz A, Senapathi SH, Aziz K, Umair M, Khalid A, Sachmechi I. Improvement of Chronic Idiopathic Urticaria With Levothyroxine: A Case Report and Review of Literature. Cureus 2018; 10:e3209. [PMID: 30405985 PMCID: PMC6205896 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.3209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
There is an increased association between chronic urticaria (CU) and thyroid autoantibodies. We presented a case of a patient suffering from CU and newly diagnosed Hashimoto’s thyroiditis in which levothyroxine therapy completely resolved the symptoms of urticaria. A 58-year-old female with a past medical history of recurrent urticaria presented with complaints of fatigue and weight gain. Laboratory investigations showed a high thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) level and a low free thyroxine (T4) level. She had elevated levels of antithyroid peroxidase (anti-TPO) and anti-thyroglobulin antibodies (anti-TG). She was diagnosed as a case of Hashimoto's thyroiditis and started on levothyroxine therapy. She noticed that her uncontrolled recurrent urticaria started to get better and after a few months of therapy, she stopped taking her topical ointments and antihistamines. The reason for the association between positive serological tests for thyroid autoimmunity and CU is unclear. The resolution of chronic urticaria with levothyroxine in our patient with Hashimoto's thyroiditis suggests a common underlying mechanism between the two pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amir Shahbaz
- Internal Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai/Queens Hospital Center, New York, USA
| | | | - Kashif Aziz
- Internal Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Queens Hospital Center, New York, USA
| | - Muhammad Umair
- Internal Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Queen Hospital Center, West Hempstead, USA
| | - Amna Khalid
- Internal Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine, Mount Sinai/Queens Hospital Center, New York, USA
| | - Issac Sachmechi
- Internal Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai/Queens Hospital Center, New York, USA
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Czarnecka-Operacz M, Sadowska-Przytocka A, Jenerowicz D, Szeliga A, Adamski Z, Łącka K. Thyroid function and thyroid autoantibodies in patients with chronic spontaneous urticaria. Postepy Dermatol Alergol 2017; 34:566-72. [PMID: 29422822 DOI: 10.5114/ada.2017.72464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2016] [Accepted: 10/17/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Chronic urticaria (CU) is a skin disease caused by autoantibodies against high affinity immunoglobulin E (IgE) receptor and against IgE. It is characterized by hives, erythematous wheals and redness present minimum twice a week for at least 6 weeks. It is observed that there is a strong association between CU and autoimmune diseases, such as autoimmune thyroiditis (AT). Aim To verify the frequency of AT in patients suffering from chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) and to confirm the coexistence of CU and AT in the Polish population. Material and methods One hundred and forty-eight patients with CSU were included to the study. The presence of anti-thyroperoxydase antibodies (anti-TPO) and anti-thyroglobulin antibodies (anti-Tg) was checked and thyrotropin (TSH), free thyroxine (fT4) and free triiodothyronine (fT3) concentration was measured. Results were compared with outcomes in a group of 35 patients with no history of skin disease. Results Thirty-three patients were diagnosed with AT. Frequency of elevated anti-TPO (p = 0.0045) and anti-Tg (p = 0.013) levels was much higher in patients with CU. A comparison of the current study and previous ones was conducted. In a group with CU, there was a higher risk of elevated anti-TPO (OR = 6.69) and anti-Tg (OR = 6.01) levels. Conclusions There is a statistically significant difference in the presence of AT between the patients with CU and the whole population. Doctors should consider examining patients with CU for AT. Adequate therapy and guidance for patients could be implemented at an early stage of thyroid disease and help induce remission of skin disorders.
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Kolkhir P, Metz M, Altrichter S, Maurer M. Comorbidity of chronic spontaneous urticaria and autoimmune thyroid diseases: A systematic review. Allergy 2017; 72:1440-1460. [PMID: 28407273 DOI: 10.1111/all.13182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/10/2017] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Patients with chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) are widely held to often have other autoimmune disorders, including autoimmune thyroid disease. Here, we systematically evaluated the literature on the prevalence of thyroid autoimmunity in CSU and vice versa. There is a strong link between CSU and elevated levels of IgG antithyroid autoantibodies (AAbs), with most of a large number of studies reporting rates of ≥10%. Levels of IgG against thyroid peroxidase (TPO) are more often elevated in CSU than those of other IgG antithyroid AAbs (strong evidence). Levels of IgG antithyroid AAbs are more often elevated in adult patients with CSU than in children (strong evidence). Patients with CSU exhibit significantly higher levels of IgG antithyroid AAbs (strong evidence) and IgE-anti-TPO (weak evidence) than controls. Elevated IgG antithyroid AAbs in CSU are linked to the use of glucocorticoids (weak evidence) but not to disease duration or severity/activity, gender, age, or ASST response (inconsistent evidence). Thyroid dysfunction rates are increased in patients with CSU (strong evidence). Hypothyroidism and Hashimoto's thyroiditis are more common than hyperthyroidism and Graves' disease (strong evidence). Thyroid dysfunction is more common in adult patients with CSU than in children (strong evidence) and in female than in male patients with CSU (weak evidence). Urticaria including CSU is more prevalent in patients with thyroid autoimmunity than in controls (weak evidence). CSU can improve in response to treatment with levothyroxine or other thyroid drugs (strong evidence). Pathogenic mechanisms in CSU patients with thyroid autoimmunity may include IgE against autoantigens, immune complexes, and complement.
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Affiliation(s)
- P. Kolkhir
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology; I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University; Moscow Russia
| | - M. Metz
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy; Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin; Berlin Germany
| | - S. Altrichter
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy; Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin; Berlin Germany
| | - M. Maurer
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy; Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin; Berlin Germany
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Silvares MRC, Fortes MRP, Nascimento RDAML, Padovani CR, Miot HA, Nogueira CR, Mazeto GMFDS. Thyrotropin receptor gene expression in the association between chronic spontaneous urticaria and Hashimoto's thyroiditis. Int J Dermatol 2017; 56:547-552. [DOI: 10.1111/ijd.13487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2016] [Revised: 06/02/2016] [Accepted: 09/12/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Maria R. C. Silvares
- Department of Dermatology and Radiotherapy; Botucatu Medical School; Sao Paulo State University - Unesp; Botucatu Sao Paulo Brazil
| | - Maria R. P. Fortes
- Department of Dermatology and Radiotherapy; Botucatu Medical School; Sao Paulo State University - Unesp; Botucatu Sao Paulo Brazil
| | - Renata de A. M. L. Nascimento
- Department of Internal Medicine; Botucatu Medical School; Sao Paulo State University - Unesp; Botucatu Sao Paulo Brazil
| | - Carlos R. Padovani
- Department of Biostatistics; Institute of Bioscience; Sao Paulo State University - Unesp; Botucatu Sao Paulo Brazil
| | - Hélio A. Miot
- Department of Dermatology and Radiotherapy; Botucatu Medical School; Sao Paulo State University - Unesp; Botucatu Sao Paulo Brazil
| | - Célia R. Nogueira
- Department of Internal Medicine; Botucatu Medical School; Sao Paulo State University - Unesp; Botucatu Sao Paulo Brazil
| | - Gláucia M. F. da S. Mazeto
- Department of Internal Medicine; Botucatu Medical School; Sao Paulo State University - Unesp; Botucatu Sao Paulo Brazil
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Kim DH, Sung NH, Lee AY. Effect of Levothyroxine Treatment on Clinical Symptoms in Hypothyroid Patients with Chronic Urticaria and Thyroid Autoimmunity. Ann Dermatol 2016; 28:199-204. [PMID: 27081267 PMCID: PMC4828383 DOI: 10.5021/ad.2016.28.2.199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2015] [Revised: 07/04/2015] [Accepted: 07/13/2015] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Thyroid autoimmunity has been increasingly reported to be associated with chronic urticaria (CU), and the possible clinical benefit of thyroid hormone or anti-thyroid drugs in some CU patients with autoimmune thyroid disease has been studied. However, the effect of thyroid hormone or anti-thyroid drugs on clinical symptoms of CU remains unclear. OBJECTIVE We investigated the clinical response of urticaria to the treatment of thyroid dysfunction. METHODS Medical records of patients with CU evaluated for thyroid autoimmunity and thyroid function were collected and reviewed. RESULTS Of 184 patients with CU, 43 patients (23.4%) had thyroid autoantibodies and 26 patients (14.1%) had thyroid dysfunction. While none of the five patients with Graves' disease showed any improvement of urticaria after treatment with anti-thyroid drugs, two of the 10 patients with Hashimoto's thyroiditis showed improved urticaria after being treated with levothyroxine. CONCLUSION Although levothyroxine treatment was effective in a minority of patients with CU, there may be a causal relationship between CU and thyroid autoimmunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Do Hun Kim
- Department of Dermatology, Donnguk University Ilsan Hospital, Goyang, Korea
| | - Nam Hee Sung
- Department of Dermatology, Donnguk University Ilsan Hospital, Goyang, Korea
| | - Ai Young Lee
- Department of Dermatology, Donnguk University Ilsan Hospital, Goyang, Korea
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Abstract
Autoimmune thyroiditis (AT) is more prevalent in patients with chronic idiopathic urticaria CIU) than in the general population. Previous small studies without any controlled comparison reported that CIU remits in patients with CIU and AT treated with L-thyroxine. To determine whether l-thyroxine treatment can improve the clinical course of CIU in patients with the co-occurrence of AT and CIU. A total of 749 patients with CIU were retrospectively studied. Clinical and laboratory evaluation and classification of chronic urticaria were performed according to the EAACI/GA(2)LEN/EDF/WAO guidelines. After L-thyroxine treatment for 53 ± 19 days, euthyroidism was restored in all subjects. Urticaria activity score (UAS) was evaluated at baseline and after three and six months. The control group consisted of matched 44 euthyroid subjects with CIU. A total of 44 (5.9%) patients were diagnosed to have hypothyroidism related to AT. Autologous serum skin test (ASST) was found to be positive in 17 (38.6%) of them. There was no statistically significant difference in baseline UAS, between the ASST+ (3.94 ± 1.52) and the ASST- (3.63 ± 1.42; P = 0.27) hypothyroid subjects and the euthyroid CIU controls (3.73 ± 1.74). During the L-thyroxine treatment, a significant reduction of UAS was observed in both hypothyroid ASST+ and ASST- subjects. However, the mean UAS after three and six months of L-thyroxine treatment remained not significantly different from that in control euthyroid subjects with CIU. L-Thyroxine treatment has no effect on the course of CIU in patients with CIU and AT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eli Magen
- Leumit Health Services, Barzilai Medical Center, Ben Gurion University of Negev, Ashkelon, Israel.
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Missaka RFBG, Penatti HC, Silvares MRC, Nogueira CR, Mazeto GMFDS. Autoimmune thyroid disease as a risk factor for angioedema in patients with chronic idiopathic urticaria: a case-control study. SAO PAULO MED J 2012; 130:294-8. [PMID: 23174868 PMCID: PMC10836470 DOI: 10.1590/s1516-31802012000500005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2011] [Revised: 09/09/2011] [Accepted: 03/07/2012] [Indexed: 03/21/2023] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVE An association between chronic idiopathic urticaria (CIU) and autoimmune thyroid disease (ATD) has been reported. However, there have not been any reports on whether ATD raises the risk of angioedema, which is a more severe clinical presentation of CIU. Thus, the aim of the present study was to evaluate whether the risk of angioedema is increased in patients with CIU and ATD. DESIGN AND SETTING Case-control study including 115 patients with CIU at a tertiary public institution. METHODS The patients were evaluated with regard to occurrence of angioedema and presence of ATD, hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. RESULTS Angioedema was detected in 70 patients (60.9%). There were 22 cases (19.1%) of ATD, 19 (16.5%) of hypothyroidism and nine (7.8%) of hyperthyroidism. The risk among patients with ATD was 16.2 times greater than among those without this thyroid abnormality (confidence interval, CI = 2.07-126.86). The odds ratio for hypothyroidism was 4.6 (CI = 1.00-21.54) and, for hyperthyroidism, 3.3 (CI = 0.38-28.36). CONCLUSIONS Patients with CIU and ATD presented greater risk of angioedema, which reinforces the idea that a relationship exists between this allergic condition and thyroid autoimmunity. This finding could imply that such patients require specifically directed therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruy Felippe Brito Gonçalves Missaka
- Undergraduate Medical Student, Department of Internal Medicine, Botucatu Medical School, Universidade Estadual Paulista (Unesp), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Henrique Costa Penatti
- Undergraduate Medical Student, Department of Internal Medicine, Botucatu Medical School, Universidade Estadual Paulista (Unesp), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Maria Regina Cavariani Silvares
- MD, PhD. Professor of Dermatology, Department of Dermatology and Radiotherapy, Botucatu Medical School, Universidade Estadual Paulista (Unesp), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Célia Regina Nogueira
- MD, PhD. Professor of Endocrinology and Metabology, Department of Internal Medicine, Botucatu Medical School, Universidade Estadual Paulista (Unesp), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Gláucia Maria Ferreira da Silva Mazeto
- MD, PhD. Professor of Endocrinology and Metabology, Internal Medicine Department, Botucatu Medical School, Universidade Estadual Paulista (Unesp), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic urticaria is a common clinical condition whose etiology, in about 75% of cases, is unknown and is therefore called chronic idiopathic urticaria (CIU). A link between CIU and autoimmune thyroid diseases was proposed several decades ago. Here we review this topic. SUMMARY Several studies have been performed to determine if and to what degree there is an association between CIU and autoimmune thyroid diseases, particularly autoimmune thyroiditis. Many of these studies were not well controlled, however. Approximately one-fourth of CIU patients have serological evidence of thyroid autoimmunity, suggesting that these two disorders are associated. The mechanisms for the apparent association between CIU and serological evidence of thyroid autoimmunity are not clear. There are no data regarding the correlations between CIU and histological features of autoimmune thyroiditis or hypothyroidism. Despite this, there are anecdotal reports regarding L-thyroxine administration in patients with CIU. CONCLUSIONS Screening for thyroid autoimmunity is probably useful in patients with CIU. More solid evidence, based on still lacking well-conducted controlled studies, is desirable to determine if there is a therapeutic role for L-thyroxine treatment in ameliorating the skin manifestations of urticaria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcello Bagnasco
- Terapia Medica e Radiometabolica, Dipartimento di Patologie Immunoendocrinologiche, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria San Martino, Genoa, Italy.
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El Gayyar M, Helmy M, Abdelhafez A, Omran N, Amer E. Evaluation of Thyroid Hormone Abnormalities and Thyroid Autoantibodies in Chronic Idiopathic Urticaria and Alopecia Areata Egyptian Patients. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2010. [DOI: 10.3923/ajd.2011.1.12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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Kiyici S, Gul OO, Baskan EB, Hacioglu S, Budak F, Erturk E, Imamoglu S. Effect of levothyroxine treatment on clinical symptoms and serum cytokine levels in euthyroid patients with chronic idiopathic urticaria and thyroid autoimmunity. Clin Exp Dermatol 2009; 35:603-7. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2230.2009.03642.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Abstract
We report six cases of autoimmune thyroid disease associated with chronic urticaria and briefly review the literature, including the histopathological nature of such lesions, and their aetiology and pathogenesis. In view of the prevalence of thyroid disease in patients with chronic urticaria, screening measurements of thyrotropin and anti-thyroperoxidase antibodies are recommended, although negative antibodies do not exclude a relationship between urticaria and thyroid autoimmunity. After failure of conventional therapy for urticaria, patients who are apparently clinically euthyroid may be considered for a trial with levothyroxine. Improvement of urticaria was seen with levothyroxine treatment in three of four patients with only marginal abnormalities in thyroid function.
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Shen L, Zhang C, Wang T, Brooks S, Ford RJ, Lin-Lee YC, Kasianowicz A, Kumar V, Martin L, Liang P, Cowell J, Ambrus JL. Development of Autoimmunity in IL-14α-Transgenic Mice. J Immunol 2006; 177:5676-86. [PMID: 17015757 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.177.8.5676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Multiple genetic loci contribute to the development of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). In murine models for SLE, various genes on chromosome four have been implicated. IL-14 is a cytokine originally identified as a B cell growth factor. The il14 gene is located on chromosome 4. IL-14alpha is a cytokine encoded by the plus strand of the IL-14 gene using exons 3-10. The expression of IL-14alpha is increased in (NZB x NZW)F1 mice. In this study, we produced IL-14alpha-transgenic mice to study the role of IL-14alpha in the development of autoimmunity. At age 3-9 mo, IL-14alpha-transgenic mice demonstrate increased numbers of B1 cells in the peritoneum, increased serum IgM, IgG, and IgG 2a and show enhanced responses to T-dependent and T-independent Ags compared with littermate controls. At age 9-17 mo, IL-14alpha-transgenic mice develop autoantibodies, sialadenitis, as in Sjögren's syndrome, and immune complex-mediated nephritis, as in World Health Organization class II SLE nephritis. Between the ages 14-18 mo, 95% of IL-14alpha-transgenic mice developed CD5+ B cell lymphomas, consistent with the lymphomas seen in elderly patients with Sjögren's syndrome and SLE. These data support a role for IL-14alpha in the development of both autoimmunity and lymphomagenesis. These studies may provide a genetic link between these often related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Long Shen
- Division of Allergy, Immunology and Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
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Abstract
A variety of rheumatic manifestations have been described in association with autoimmune thyroiditis. In the past, most of these manifestations were attributed to the underlying thyroid dysfunction, in particular hypothyroidism. However, a responsibility of the mechanisms involved in the autoimmunity rather than a direct action of thyroid hormones seems supported by the evidences that some rheumatic manifestations may occur even in euthyroid patients, or that they are more frequent in hypothyroid patient with autoimmune thyroiditis than in those without this disease. Rheumatic manifestations could be sometimes attributable to the autoimmune rheumatic diseases frequently associated with autoimmune thyroiditis, such as Sjögren's syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, or scleroderma. Among the most important or frequent rheumatic manifestations there are a mild non-erosive variety of arthritis, polyarthralgia, myalgia, and sicca syndrome without a true Sjögren's syndrome. Although the possible pathogenesis of these manifestations is not completely established, some hypotheses may be proposed, including a role of autoantibodies characteristics of autoimmune thyroiditis, a possible overlap between autoimmune thyroiditis and some autoimmune rheumatic diseases, and a systemic inflammatory reaction associated with thyroiditis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonardo Punzi
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani 2, Padova 35128, Italy.
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Pachlopnik JM, Horn MP, Fux M, Dahinden M, Mandallaz M, Schneeberger D, Baldi L, Vogel M, Stadler BM, Miescher SM. Natural anti-FcεRIα autoantibodies may interfere with diagnostic tests for autoimmune urticaria. J Autoimmun 2004; 22:43-51. [PMID: 14709412 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2003.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
IgG autoantibodies against the alpha-chain of the high affinity IgE receptor are claimed to play a pathogenetic role in autoimmune urticaria. The best methods for detection of functional autoantibodies are currently the autologous serum skin test and the basophil histamine release assay. A simplified and feasible screening test would facilitate the diagnosis of autoimmune urticaria. Here we offer an explanation for the difficulties in establishing a screening test for autoantibodies directed against the alpha-chain of the high affinity IgE receptor in autoimmune urticaria. Identical autoantibodies in chronic urticaria patients and healthy donors belonging to the natural autoantibody repertoire were found by sequence analysis of anti-alpha-chain autoantibodies isolated by repertoire cloning from antibody libraries. These natural autoantibodies bound to the receptor and triggered histamine release but only if IgE was previously removed from the receptor. Diagnostic assays used for detection of antibodies directed against the IgE receptor may require signal comparison with and without the artificial removal of IgE, immune complexes, and complement in order to avoid false positive or negative results. After IgE removal diagnostic tests will detect natural autoantibodies against the high affinity IgE receptor regardless of whether they are pathogenic or not.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jana M Pachlopnik
- Institute of Immunology, Sahlihaus 1, Inselspital, CH-3010 Bern, Switzerland
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Affiliation(s)
- C M B Edwards
- Department of Endocrinology, West Middlesex University Hospital, Isleworth, London TW7 6AF, UK.
| | - J J Cream
- Department of Dermatology, West Middlesex University Hospital, Isleworth, London TW7 6AF, UK
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Affiliation(s)
- C M B Edwards
- Department of Endocrinology, West Middlesex University Hospital, Isleworth, London TW7 6AF, UK.
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Abstract
Chronic urticaria is now recognized as an autoreactive disorder in a substantial fraction of patients. A serologic mediator of whealing has been demonstrated in 50-60% of patients with chronic urticaria, and autoantibodies against the high affinity IgE receptor or IgE have been detected in about half of these patients. The demonstration that chronic urticaria is frequently autoimmune has encouraged a more aggressive therapeutic approach, with the use of immunomodulatory drugs.A step-by-step approach to the management of chronic urticaria is proposed, based on our personal experience and review of current medical literature, identified through Medline research and hand searching in medical journals. The non- or low-sedating H(1) receptor antagonists (antihistamines), such as cetirizine, fexofenadine, loratadine, mizolastine and, more recently, levocetirizine, desloratadine and ebastine, represent the basic therapy for all chronic urticaria patients. Older sedating antihistamines, such as hydroxyzine and diphenhydramine, may be indicated if symptoms are severe, are associated with angioedema, and if the patient is anxious and disturbed at night.Corticosteroid therapy with prednisone or methylprednisolone can be administered for a few days (7-14) if urticarial symptoms are not controlled by antihistamines and a rapid clinical response is needed. In cases of relapse after corticosteroid suspension, leukotriene receptor antagonists, such as montelukast and zafirlukast, should be tried. In our experience, remission of urticarial symptoms can be achieved in 20-50% of chronic urticaria patients unresponsive to antihistamines alone. When urticaria is unremitting and is not controlled by combined therapy with antihistamines and leukotriene receptor antagonists, prolonged corticosteroid therapy may be needed. Long-term corticosteroid therapy should be administered at the lowest dose able to control urticarial symptoms, in order to minimize adverse effects. In a few patients, however, high-dose corticosteroid therapy may have to be administered for long periods. In these patients, immunosuppressive treatment with low-dose cyclosporine can be started. This type of treatment has a corticosteroid-sparing effect and is also generally effective in patients with severe, unremitting urticaria, but requires careful monitoring of cyclosporine plasma concentration and possible adverse effects. Other immunomodulating drugs that have been tried in chronic urticaria patients include hydroxychloroquine, dapsone, sulfasalazine and methotrexate, but their efficacy has not been proven in large controlled studies. Warfarin therapy may also be considered in some patients with chronic urticaria and angioedema unresponsive to antihistamines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Tedeschi
- Allergy and Immunopharmacology Unit, First Division of Internal Medicine, IRCCS Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Though autoimmune phenomena have been regularly associated with chronic urticaria in adults, data in children are sparse. AIM To describe our experience with children and adolescents with chronic urticaria and autoimmunity. METHODS AND RESULTS Of 187 patients referred for evaluation of chronic urticaria during a 7.5 year period, eight (4.3%), all females aged 7-17 years, had increased levels of antithyroid antibody, either antithyroid peroxidase antibody (n = 4, >75 IU/ml), antithyroglobulin antibody (n = 2, >150 IU/ml), or both (n = 2). The duration of urticaria was four months to seven years. Five patients were euthyroid, one of whom was found to have increased antithyroid antibody levels five years after onset of the urticaria. One patient was diagnosed with Hashimoto thyroiditis three years before the urticaria, and was receiving treatment with thyroxine. Two other hypothyroid patients were diagnosed during the initial work up for urticaria (thyroxine 9.2 pmol/l, thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) 40.2 mIU/l) and five years after onset of the urticaria (thyroxine 14 pmol/l, TSH 10.3 mIU/l). Both were treated with thyroxine but neither had remission of the urticaria. Five patients had a low positive titre of antinuclear antibodies. CONCLUSION Children with chronic urticaria should be screened periodically for thyroxine, TSH, and antithyroid antibodies, as thyroid autoimmunity and hypothyroidism may appear several years after onset of the urticaria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Levy
- Kipper Institute of Immunology, Schneider Children's Medical Center of Israel, and Felsenstein Medical Research Center, Petah Tiqva, Israel.
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Abstract
Urticaria and urticarial vasculitis may be triggered by allergens, infection, autoimmunity and other immunological conditions. Careful evaluation, skin biopsy and specific laboratory tests can assist in diagnosis. The appropriate use of antihistamines, glucocorticoids, and other immunomodulators are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhuvana Guha
- Department of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, Tenn. 37614-0622, USA
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Abstract
Chronic idiopathic urticaria (CIU) is a common and frustrating disorder. A subset of patients with CIU has been classified as autoimmune on the basis of two main findings: association with thyroid autoimmunity and anti-IgE and/or anti-IgE receptor antibodies. There is growing evidence that some cases of CIU are associated with thyroid autoimmunity. Patients with CIU have an increased frequency of Hashimoto thyroiditis with the presence of antibodies to thyroglobulin or a microsomal-derived antigen (peroxidase), even in euthyroid patients. No broad non-specific autoimmunity is present. Antibodies reactive with Fc(epsilon)RI, the high-affinity IgE receptor are found in sera of 10-40% of patients with CIU. A smaller subset of patients with CIU lack anti-Fc(epsilon)RI antibodies and have anti-IgE antibodies that cross-link Fc(epsilon)RIs occupied by IgE. There are a minority of CIU patients that lack such antibodies, but can degranulate basophils by a serum factor that has not yet been determined. Most patients with anti-IgE antibodies have an IgG antibody directed against the 34 kd alpha subunit of the IgE receptor. There are no data to suggest that any of the anti thyroid antibodies is pathogenic in terms of CIU, and most likely these are associated, parallel, autoimmune events. Screening for thyroid autoimmunity and function is advisable in all patients with CIU for the early identification of patients requiring either treatment of underlying thyroid dysfunction or follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Menachem Rottem
- Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Ha'Emek Medical Center, Afula 18101, Israel.
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Abstract
Autoimmune thyroid disease (AITD) is common and occurs frequently in conjunction with other diseases. Many putative disease associations have been suggested for AITD but the validity of these associations is not clear in all cases. It is important to define disease associations correctly because this may offer a means to rationally screen for true associations, may shed light on shared pathophysiologic mechanisms and may be important if the associated disease impacts on patient management. This review has examined the evidence base for a large number of the suggested associations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard C Jenkins
- University of Sheffield, Clinical Sciences Centre, Northern General Hospital, Sheffield, United Kingdom
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