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Keleşoğlu Dinçer AB, Şahan HF. Increased epicardial adipose tissue thickness as a sign of subclinical atherosclerosis in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and ıts relationship with disease activity ındices. Intern Emerg Med 2024:10.1007/s11739-024-03542-6. [PMID: 38578429 DOI: 10.1007/s11739-024-03542-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
Epicardial adipose tissue is a novel cardiometabolic risk factor and indicator of subclinical atherosclerosis. We aimed to evaluate the epicardial adipose tissue thickness in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients and its association with disease activity scores. A total of 81 rheumatoid arthritis patients and 70 age- and sex-matched healthy individuals were recruited for this cross-sectional study. Epicardial adipose tissue thickness (EATT) was measured by transthoracic two-dimensional echocardiography. Tender and swollen joint counts were recorded at the time of inclusion. The laboratory tests included erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C-reactive protein (CRP), rheumatoid factor, anti-citrullinated protein antibodies, and serum lipid levels. Disease activity was calculated based on Disease Activity Scores for 28 joints (DAS-28) ESR and CRP, the Simple Disease Activity Index (SDAI), and the Clinical Disease Activity Index (CDAI). Epicardial adipose tissue thickness was significantly higher in the RA patients compared to the healthy controls (p < 0.001). We found statistically significant correlations of EATT with all disease activity indices (p < 0.001) and CRP (p = 0.002). According to a cut-off value of 6.4 mm determined for epicardial adipose tissue thickness, the RA patients with thickness ≥ 6.4 mm had higher disease activity scores and CRP levels. In the multivariable regression analysis, only SDAI score was found as an independent risk factor for increased EATT (OR, (95%CI), 13.70 (3.88-48.43), p < 0.001). Epicardial adipose tissue thickness measurement by echocardiography is a reliable method for assessing subclinical atherosclerosis in rheumatoid arthritis patients, and a higher disease activity score is an independent risk factor for coronary artery disease.
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Liu Y, Yu X, Zhang W, Zhang X, Wang M, Ji F. Mechanistic insight into premature atherosclerosis and cardiovascular complications in systemic lupus erythematosus. J Autoimmun 2022; 132:102863. [PMID: 35853760 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2022.102863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is associated with a significant risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD), which substantially increases disease mortality and morbidity. The overall mechanisms associated with the development of premature atherosclerosis and CVD in SLE remain unclear, but has been considered as a result of an intricate interplay between the profound immune dysregulation and traditional CVD risk factors. Aberrant systemic inflammation in SLE may lead to an abnormal lipid profile and dysfunction, which can further fuel the pro-atherosclerotic environment. The existence of a strong imbalance between endothelial damage and vascular repair/angiogenesis promotes vascular injury, which is the early step in the progression of atherosclerotic CVD. Profound innate and adaptive immune dysregulation, characterized by excessive type I interferon burden, aberrant macrophage, platelet and complements activation, neutrophil dysregulation and neutrophil extracellular traps formation, uncontrolled T cell activation, and excessive autoantibody production and immune complex formation, have been proposed to promote accelerated CVD in SLE. While designing targeted therapies to correct the dysregulated immune activation may be beneficial in the treatment of SLE-related CVD, much additional work is needed to determine how to translate these findings into clinical practice. Additionally, a number of biomarkers display diagnostic potentials in improving CVD risk stratification in SLE, further prospective studies will help understand which biomarker(s) will be the most impactful one(s) in assessing SLE-linked CVD. Continued efforts to identify novel mechanisms and to establish criteria for assessing CVD risk as well as predicting CVD progression are in great need to improve CVD outcomes in SLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yudong Liu
- Department of Rheumatology, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100730, PR China; The Key Laboratory of Geriatrics, Beijing Institute of Geriatrics, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, National Health Commission, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100730, PR China
| | - Xue Yu
- Department of Cardiology, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100730, PR China
| | - Wenduo Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100730, PR China
| | - Xuan Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100730, PR China
| | - Min Wang
- Department of Rheumatology, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100730, PR China
| | - Fusui Ji
- Department of Cardiology, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100730, PR China.
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Lertratanakul A, Sun J, Wu PW, Lee J, Dyer A, Pearce W, McPherson D, Sutton-Tyrrell K, Thompson T, Barinas-Mitchell E, Ramsey-Goldman R. Risk factors for changes in carotid intima media thickness and plaque over 5 years in women with systemic lupus erythematosus. Lupus Sci Med 2021; 8:8/1/e000548. [PMID: 34876504 PMCID: PMC8655565 DOI: 10.1136/lupus-2021-000548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Objective To investigate the occurrence of and risk factors for progression of carotid intima media thickness (IMT) and plaque in women with and without SLE. Methods A cohort of 149 women with SLE and 126 controls participated in SOLVABLE (Study of Lupus Vascular and Bone Long-term Endpoints). Demographics, cardiovascular and SLE factors, and laboratory assessments were collected at baseline. Carotid IMT and plaque were measured using B-mode ultrasound at baseline and at 5-year follow-up. Regression models were used to identify predictors of progression in carotid IMT and plaque; multivariate models were adjusted for age, hypertension and total cholesterol to high-density lipoprotein ratio. Results The mean±SD follow-up time was 5.35±0.60 years in cases and 5.62±0.66 years in controls. The mean IMT change per year was 0.008±0.015 mm in cases and 0.005±0.019 mm in controls (p=0.24). At follow-up, 31.5% of cases and 15% of controls had plaque progression, with a relative risk for plaque progression of 2.09 (95% CI 1.30 to 3.37). In SLE cases, higher fasting glucose and lower fibrinogen were associated with IMT progression after adjustment. Larger waist circumference and non-use of hydroxychloroquine were associated with plaque progression after adjustment. Conclusion Potential modifiable risk factors for carotid IMT and plaque progression in women with SLE were identified, suggesting that monitoring of glucose and waist circumference and use of hydroxychloroquine may be beneficial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Apinya Lertratanakul
- Rheumatology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Julia Sun
- Rheumatology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Peggy W Wu
- Rheumatology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Jungwha Lee
- Preventive Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Alan Dyer
- Preventive Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - William Pearce
- Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - David McPherson
- Cardiology, University of Texas McGovern Medical School, Houston, Texas, USA
| | | | - Trina Thompson
- Ultrasound Research Laboratory, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Emma Barinas-Mitchell
- Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
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Murdaca G, Negrini S, Pellecchio M, Greco M, Schiavi C, Giusti F, Puppo F. Update upon the infection risk in patients receiving TNF alpha inhibitors. Expert Opin Drug Saf 2019; 18:219-229. [DOI: 10.1080/14740338.2019.1577817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Murdaca
- Clinical Immunology Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa and Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Simone Negrini
- Clinical Immunology Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa and Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Marco Pellecchio
- Clinical Immunology Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa and Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Monica Greco
- Clinical Immunology Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa and Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Chiara Schiavi
- Clinical Immunology Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa and Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Francesca Giusti
- Clinical Immunology Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa and Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Francesco Puppo
- Clinical Immunology Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa and Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
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Murdaca G, Negrini S, Magnani O, Penza E, Pellecchio M, Gulli R, Mandich P, Puppo F. Update upon efficacy and safety of etanercept for the treatment of spondyloarthritis and juvenile idiopathic arthritis. Mod Rheumatol 2017; 28:417-431. [DOI: 10.1080/14397595.2017.1366006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Murdaca
- Department of Internal Medicine, Scleroderma Unit, Clinical Immunology Unit, University of Genova and IRCCS-Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Simone Negrini
- Department of Internal Medicine, Scleroderma Unit, Clinical Immunology Unit, University of Genova and IRCCS-Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Ottavia Magnani
- Department of Internal Medicine, Scleroderma Unit, Clinical Immunology Unit, University of Genova and IRCCS-Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Elena Penza
- Department of Internal Medicine, Scleroderma Unit, Clinical Immunology Unit, University of Genova and IRCCS-Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Marco Pellecchio
- Department of Internal Medicine, Scleroderma Unit, Clinical Immunology Unit, University of Genova and IRCCS-Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Rossella Gulli
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics and Maternal Child Health, Section of Medical Genetics, University of Genova and IRCCS-Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Paola Mandich
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics and Maternal Child Health, Section of Medical Genetics, University of Genova and IRCCS-Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Francesco Puppo
- Department of Internal Medicine, Scleroderma Unit, Clinical Immunology Unit, University of Genova and IRCCS-Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria San Martino, Genova, Italy
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Wu GC, Liu HR, Leng RX, Li XP, Li XM, Pan HF, Ye DQ. Subclinical atherosclerosis in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: A systemic review and meta-analysis. Autoimmun Rev 2016; 15:22-37. [PMID: 26455562 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2015.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2015] [Accepted: 10/06/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Carotid intima media thickness (CIMT) and carotid plaques are both frequently used to identify populations at higher cardiovascular risk. A systematic literature search and meta-analysis were performed to evaluate CIMT and carotid plaques difference between SLE patients and normal controls. METHODS The literatures comparing markers of cardiovascular risk (CIMT and prevalence of carotid plaques) in SLE and controls were systematically searched in PubMed, EMBASE and Cochrane databases. The overall mean CIMT difference and pooled odds ratio (OR) for the prevalence of carotid plaques between SLE patients and control groups were calculated by fixed-effects or random-effect model analysis. Meta-regression was performed to explore the potential influencing factors. Publication bias was examined by a funnel plot and Egger's test. RESULTS A total of 80 studies (6085 SLE patients and 4794 controls) were included in the final analysis, 71 studies with data on CIMT (4814 cases and 3773 controls) and 44 studies reporting on the prevalence of carotid plaques (4417 cases and 3528 controls). As compared to controls, SLE patients showed a higher CIMT (WMD: 0.07 mm; 95%CI: 0.06, 0.09; P<0.001), and an increased prevalence of carotid plaques (OR: 2.45; 95%CI: 2.02, 2.97; P<0.001). Meta-regression models showed that traditional cardiovascular risk factors (age, HDL and triglyceride of SLE patients) and lupus related risk factors (as expressed by duration, ESR, SLEDAI and steroids) had a significant influence on CIMT, steroids and triglyceride had significant influence on the prevalence of carotid plaques. CONCLUSIONS Our findings support the current evidence base for an increased cardiovascular burden in SLE patients and support the use of CIMT and carotid plaques in observational studies in SLE patients. The findings are of importance to design more specific prevention and treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guo-Cui Wu
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032 Anhui, China; Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Population Health & Major Disease Screening and Diagnosis, Anhui Medical University, 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032 Anhui, China
| | - Hai-Rong Liu
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032 Anhui, China; Graduate School, Wannan Medical College, West of Wenchang Road, University Park, Wuhu, Anhui 241002, China
| | - Rui-Xue Leng
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032 Anhui, China; Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Population Health & Major Disease Screening and Diagnosis, Anhui Medical University, 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032 Anhui, China
| | - Xiang-Pei Li
- Department of Rheumatology, Anhui Provincial Hospital, Hefei, China
| | - Xiao-Mei Li
- Department of Rheumatology, Anhui Provincial Hospital, Hefei, China
| | - Hai-Feng Pan
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032 Anhui, China; Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Population Health & Major Disease Screening and Diagnosis, Anhui Medical University, 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032 Anhui, China.
| | - Dong-Qing Ye
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032 Anhui, China; Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Population Health & Major Disease Screening and Diagnosis, Anhui Medical University, 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032 Anhui, China.
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Murdaca G, Spanò F, Contatore M, Guastalla A, Penza E, Magnani O, Puppo F. Immunogenicity of infliximab and adalimumab: what is its role in hypersensitivity and modulation of therapeutic efficacy and safety? Expert Opin Drug Saf 2015; 15:43-52. [PMID: 26559805 DOI: 10.1517/14740338.2016.1112375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION TNF-α inhibitors have demonstrated efficacy both as monotherapy and in combination with disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) in the treatment of chronic inflammatory immune-mediated diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease, ankylosing spondylitis, psoriasis and/or psoriatic arthritis, and may be administered off-label to treat disseminated granuloma annulare systemic lupus erythematosus and systemic sclerosis. There are several TNF-α inhibitors available for clinical use including infliximab, adalimumab, golimumab, certolizumab pegol and etanercept. AREAS COVERED infliximab and adalimumab can induce the development of anti-infliximab (anti-IFX) and anti-adalimumab (anti-ADA) monoclonal antibodies (mAbs). In this review, we discuss the impact of anti-IFX and anti-ADA mAbs upon efficacy and safety of these biological agents. EXPERT OPINION IgG/IgE neutralizing antibodies against infliximab and adalimumab decrease the possibility of achieving a minimal disease activity state or clinical remission, decrease drug survival, increase the need for doctors to prescribe a higher drug dosage and, finally, favor the occurrence of adverse events. Concomitant administration of DMARDs such as methotrexate or leflunomide prevents the development of neutralizing Abs against infliximab and adalimumab.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Murdaca
- a Department of Internal Medicine, Clinical immunology Unit , University of Genova , Viale Benedetto XV, n. 6, 16132 , Genova , Italy
| | - Francesca Spanò
- a Department of Internal Medicine, Clinical immunology Unit , University of Genova , Viale Benedetto XV, n. 6, 16132 , Genova , Italy
| | - Miriam Contatore
- a Department of Internal Medicine, Clinical immunology Unit , University of Genova , Viale Benedetto XV, n. 6, 16132 , Genova , Italy
| | - Andrea Guastalla
- a Department of Internal Medicine, Clinical immunology Unit , University of Genova , Viale Benedetto XV, n. 6, 16132 , Genova , Italy
| | - Elena Penza
- a Department of Internal Medicine, Clinical immunology Unit , University of Genova , Viale Benedetto XV, n. 6, 16132 , Genova , Italy
| | - Ottavia Magnani
- a Department of Internal Medicine, Clinical immunology Unit , University of Genova , Viale Benedetto XV, n. 6, 16132 , Genova , Italy
| | - Francesco Puppo
- a Department of Internal Medicine, Clinical immunology Unit , University of Genova , Viale Benedetto XV, n. 6, 16132 , Genova , Italy
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Murdaca G, Spanò F, Contatore M, Guastalla A, Penza E, Magnani O, Puppo F. Infection risk associated with anti-TNF-α agents: a review. Expert Opin Drug Saf 2015; 14:571-82. [PMID: 25630559 DOI: 10.1517/14740338.2015.1009036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 137] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION TNF-α is a pro-inflammatory cytokine known to a have a key role in the pathogenesis of chronic immune-mediated diseases. TNF-α inhibitors can be administered either as monotherapy or in combination with other anti-inflammatory or disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) to treat chronic immune-mediated diseases. AREAS COVERED Patients receiving TNF-α inhibitors are at high risk of infections. Based on our experience, in this paper, we discuss the risk of infections associated with the administration of TNF-α inhibitors and the strategies for mitigating against the development of these serious adverse events. EXPERT OPINION Infliximab more so than etanercept appears to be responsible for the increased risk of infections. Re-activation of latent tuberculosis (LTB) infection and the overall risk of opportunistic infections should be considered before beginning TNF-α inhibitor therapy. A careful medical history, Mantoux test and chest-x-ray should always be performed before prescribing TNF-α inhibitors. Particular attention should be paid to risk factors for Pneumocystis jirovecii infection. Hepatitis B and C virological follow-up should be considered during TNF-α inhibitor treatment. Finally, patients who are at high risk of herpes zoster (HZ) reactivation would benefit from a second vaccination in adulthood when receiving TNF-α inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Murdaca
- University of Genova, Department of Internal Medicine, Clinical Immunology Unit , Viale Benedetto XV, n. 6, 16132 Genova , Italy +39 0103537924 ; +39 0105556950 ;
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Jung JY, Koh BR, Bae CB, Kim HA, Suh CH. Carotid subclinical atherosclerosis is associated with disease activity but not vitamin D in Korean systemic lupus erythematosus. Lupus 2014; 23:1517-1522. [DOI: 10.1177/0961203314544185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/30/2023]
Abstract
Atherosclerosis develops early in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients and is an important cause of mortality. Vitamin D deficiency is found to be associated with cardiovascular disease and autoimmunity. We evaluated the extent of carotid subclinical atherosclerosis and analyzed its correlation with vitamin D in SLE. One hundred and two female patients with SLE and 52 normal controls (NCs) were recruited. The mean carotid intima-media thickness (IMT) of SLE patients was 0.41 ± 0.08 mm, which was higher than that of NCs (0.32 ± 0.08 mm, p = 0.012). In addition, carotid plaques were more frequent and the plaque index was higher in SLE patients than in NCs (0.68 ± 1.39 vs. 0.26 ± 0.87, p = 0.026). Carotid IMT was correlated with age, body mass index, SLE disease activity index, and aspirin use in SLE patients. The plaque index was correlated with renal involvement. Vitamin 25(OH)D3 level was not correlated with carotid IMT, plaque index or disease activity markers. In SLE, the risk of cardiovascular disease is higher than that in NCs, which may be derived from systemic inflammation. It may be not suitable to assess vitamin D as a marker of disease activity or subclinical atherosclerosis in SLE patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- J-Y Jung
- Department of Rheumatology and BK21 Division of Cell Transformation and Restoration, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, Korea
| | - B-R Koh
- Department of Rheumatology and BK21 Division of Cell Transformation and Restoration, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, Korea
| | - C-B Bae
- Department of Rheumatology and BK21 Division of Cell Transformation and Restoration, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, Korea
| | - H-A Kim
- Department of Rheumatology and BK21 Division of Cell Transformation and Restoration, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, Korea
| | - C-H Suh
- Department of Rheumatology and BK21 Division of Cell Transformation and Restoration, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, Korea
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Murdaca G, Gulli R, Spanò F, Mandich P, Puppo F. Pharmacogenetics and Future Therapeutic Scenarios: What Affects the Prediction of Response to Treatment with Etanercept? Drug Dev Res 2014; 75 Suppl 1:S7-S10. [DOI: 10.1002/ddr.21185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Murdaca
- Department of Internal Medicine; Clinical immunology Unit; University of Genoa; Genoa 16132 Italy
| | - Rossella Gulli
- Department of Neuroscience; Ophthalmology and Genetics-Section of Medical Genetics; University of Genoa; Genoa 16132 Italy
| | - Francesca Spanò
- Department of Internal Medicine; Clinical immunology Unit; University of Genoa; Genoa 16132 Italy
| | - Paola Mandich
- Department of Neuroscience; Ophthalmology and Genetics-Section of Medical Genetics; University of Genoa; Genoa 16132 Italy
| | - Francesco Puppo
- Department of Internal Medicine; Clinical immunology Unit; University of Genoa; Genoa 16132 Italy
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Arnaud L, Mathian A, Bruckert E, Amoura Z. Le risque cardiovasculaire au cours du lupus systémique. Rev Med Interne 2014; 35:723-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.revmed.2014.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2013] [Revised: 03/02/2014] [Accepted: 07/28/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Murdaca G, Spanò F, Contatore M, Guastalla A, Magnani O, Puppo F. Pharmacogenetics of etanercept: role of TNF-α gene polymorphisms in improving its efficacy. Expert Opin Drug Metab Toxicol 2014; 10:1703-10. [DOI: 10.1517/17425255.2014.970165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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Murdaca G, Spanò F, Contatore M, Guastalla A, Magnani O, Puppo F. Efficacy and safety of etanercept in chronic immune-mediated disease. Expert Opin Drug Saf 2014; 13:649-61. [DOI: 10.1517/14740338.2014.899579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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Murdaca G, Spanò F, Contatore M, Guastalla A, Puppo F. Potential use of TNF-α inhibitors in systemic sclerosis. Immunotherapy 2014; 6:283-9. [DOI: 10.2217/imt.13.173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare connective tissue disease characterized by chronic inflammation and fibrosis of the skin, vascular abnormalities and variable involvement of organs. TNF-α has a central role in initial host response to infections and in the pathogenesis of various systemic immune-mediated diseases. Serum levels of TNF-α are elevated in patients with SSc and favor the development of pulmonary fibrosis and pulmonary arterial hypertension. Inflammatory arthritis can occur in patients with SSc. Infliximab and etanercept may improve the inflammatory arthritis and disability in SSc. TNF-α inhibitors reduce the systemic inflammation, improve the endothelial function decreasing the risk of pulmonary arterial hypertension progression and of acute cardiovascular and/or cerebrovascular events. Physicians need to be aware of the potential risks of tuberculosis reactivation and opportunistic infections. Randomized controlled trials with TNF-α inhibitors in patients with SSc are needed to confirm the potential role of these agents in the treatment of SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Murdaca
- Department of Internal Medicine, Clinical Immunology Unit, University of Genova, Viale Benedetto XV, n. 6, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Francesca Spanò
- Department of Internal Medicine, Clinical Immunology Unit, University of Genova, Viale Benedetto XV, n. 6, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Miriam Contatore
- Department of Internal Medicine, Clinical Immunology Unit, University of Genova, Viale Benedetto XV, n. 6, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Andrea Guastalla
- Department of Internal Medicine, Clinical Immunology Unit, University of Genova, Viale Benedetto XV, n. 6, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Francesco Puppo
- Department of Internal Medicine, Clinical Immunology Unit, University of Genova, Viale Benedetto XV, n. 6, 16132 Genova, Italy
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Murdaca G, Spanò F, Puppo F. Current therapies for the treatment of systemic sclerosis-related pulmonary arterial hypertension: efficacy and safety. Expert Opin Drug Saf 2014; 13:295-305. [DOI: 10.1517/14740338.2014.872238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Murdaca
- University of Genova, Department of Internal Medicine, Clinical Immunology Unit,
Viale Benedetto XV, n. 6, 16132 Genova, Italy ;
| | - Francesca Spanò
- University of Genova, Department of Internal Medicine, Clinical Immunology Unit,
Viale Benedetto XV, n. 6, 16132 Genova, Italy ;
| | - Francesco Puppo
- University of Genova, Department of Internal Medicine, Clinical Immunology Unit,
Viale Benedetto XV, n. 6, 16132 Genova, Italy ;
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Rollet-Labelle E, Vaillancourt M, Marois L, Newkirk MM, Poubelle PE, Naccache PH. Cross-linking of IgGs bound on circulating neutrophils leads to an activation of endothelial cells: possible role of rheumatoid factors in rheumatoid arthritis-associated vascular dysfunction. J Inflamm (Lond) 2013; 10:27. [PMID: 23902799 PMCID: PMC3734015 DOI: 10.1186/1476-9255-10-27] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2013] [Accepted: 07/25/2013] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rheumatoid arthritis is characterized by the presence of circulating auto-antibodies, including rheumatoid factors, which recognize the Fc portion of IgGs. The neutrophil is the most abundant circulating leukocyte and it expresses high levels of FcγRs on its surface. The aim of the present study was to examine the capacity of circulating human neutrophils to be activated by rheumatoid factors and the consequences of these events on endothelium. METHODS Neutrophil-bound IgGs were cross-linked with anti-human IgGs to mimick the presence of circulating rheumatoid factors and FcγRs-dependent signalling events and functions were examined. The IgG and IgM composition of rheumatoid factors isolated from the serum of RA patients was characterized. Adhesion of neutrophils to endothelial cells was quantified in response to the addition of rheumatoid factors. RESULTS Cross-linking of IgGs bound on neutrophils leads to FcγRs-dependent tyrosine phosphorylation, mobilisation of intracellular calcium and the extracellular release of superoxide anions and lysozyme. Incubation of endothelial cells with the supernatant of activated neutrophils increases ICAM-1 expression and IL-8 production by endothelial cells. Finally, rheumatoid factors enhance neutrophil adhesion to endothelial cells. CONCLUSIONS Our results show that activation of neutrophils' FcγRs by rheumatoid factors could participate in rheumatoid arthritis-associated vascular damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuelle Rollet-Labelle
- Départements de Microbiologie-Infectiologie et Immunologie et de Médecine, Centre de recherche en rhumatologie et immunologie, Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Myriam Vaillancourt
- Départements de Microbiologie-Infectiologie et Immunologie et de Médecine, Centre de recherche en rhumatologie et immunologie, Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Louis Marois
- Départements de Microbiologie-Infectiologie et Immunologie et de Médecine, Centre de recherche en rhumatologie et immunologie, Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Marianna M Newkirk
- Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Research Institute of McGill University Health Centre, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Patrice E Poubelle
- Départements de Microbiologie-Infectiologie et Immunologie et de Médecine, Faculté de médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Paul H Naccache
- Départements de Microbiologie-Infectiologie et Immunologie et de Médecine, Centre de recherche en rhumatologie et immunologie, Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
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Murdaca G, Spanò F, Puppo F. Use of leflunomide plus TNF-α inhibitors in rheumatoid arthritis. Expert Opin Drug Saf 2013; 12:801-4. [DOI: 10.1517/14740338.2013.823947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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18
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Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disease that is associated with joint damage and progressive disability, an increased risk of morbidity related to comorbid conditions and substantial socioeconomic costs. Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) is a proinflammatory cytokine known to have a central role in the initial host response to infection and in the pathogenesis of various immune-mediated diseases, such as RA, ankylosing spondylitis, psoriasis and/or psoriatic arthritis, Crohn’s disease, and systemic lupus erythematosus. Five TNF-α inhibitors are available for the clinical use: infliximab; adalimumab; etanercept; golimumab; and certolizumab pegol. Infliximab is a chimeric human/murine IgG1 monoclonal antibody (mAb); adalimumab, and golimumab are human mAbs; certolizumab pegol is composed of the fragment antigen-binding anti-binding domain of a humanized anti-TNF-α mAb, combined with polyethylene glycol to increase its half-life in the body; etanercept is a fusion protein that acts as a “decoy receptor” for TNF-α. In this paper, we will briefly review the current data on efficacy and safety of adalimumab in patients with RA, its potential beneficial effects upon comorbid conditions, such as endothelial dysfunction and accelerated atherosclerosis in RA, and the immunogenicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Murdaca
- Department of Internal Medicine, Clinical Immunology Unit, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Francesca Spanò
- Department of Internal Medicine, Clinical Immunology Unit, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Francesco Puppo
- Department of Internal Medicine, Clinical Immunology Unit, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
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19
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Dimitroulas T, Sandoo A, Kitas GD. Asymmetric dimethylarginine as a surrogate marker of endothelial dysfunction and cardiovascular risk in patients with systemic rheumatic diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2012. [PMID: 23202900 PMCID: PMC3497274 DOI: 10.3390/ijms131012315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The last few decades have witnessed an increased life expectancy of patients suffering with systemic rheumatic diseases, mainly due to improved management, advanced therapies and preventative measures. However, autoimmune disorders are associated with significantly enhanced cardiovascular morbidity and mortality not fully explained by traditional cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors. It has been suggested that interactions between high-grade systemic inflammation and the vasculature lead to endothelial dysfunction and atherosclerosis, which may account for the excess risk for CVD events in this population. Diminished nitric oxide synthesis—due to down regulation of endothelial nitric oxide synthase—appears to play a prominent role in the imbalance between vasoactive factors, the consequent impairment of the endothelial hemostasis and the early development of atherosclerosis. Asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) is one of the most potent endogenous inhibitors of the three isoforms of nitric oxide synthase and it is a newly discovered risk factor in the setting of diseases associated with endothelial dysfunction and adverse cardiovascular events. In the context of systemic inflammatory disorders there is increasing evidence that ADMA contributes to the vascular changes and to endothelial cell abnormalities, as several studies have revealed derangement of nitric oxide/ADMA pathway in different disease subsets. In this article we discuss the role of endothelial dysfunction in patients with rheumatic diseases, with a specific focus on the nitric oxide/ADMA system and we provide an overview on the literature pertaining to ADMA as a surrogate marker of subclinical vascular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theodoros Dimitroulas
- Department of Rheumatology, Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust, Russells Hall Hospital, Dudley, West Midlands DY1 2HQ, UK; E-Mails: (A.S.); (G.D.K.)
- Author to whom correspondence should be addressed; E-Mail: or ; Tel.: +44-1384-244842; Fax: +44-1283-244272
| | - Aamer Sandoo
- Department of Rheumatology, Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust, Russells Hall Hospital, Dudley, West Midlands DY1 2HQ, UK; E-Mails: (A.S.); (G.D.K.)
| | - George D. Kitas
- Department of Rheumatology, Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust, Russells Hall Hospital, Dudley, West Midlands DY1 2HQ, UK; E-Mails: (A.S.); (G.D.K.)
- Arthritis Research UK Epidemiology Unit, University of Manchester, Manchester M15 6SZ, UK
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20
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Soltész P, Kerekes G, Dér H, Szücs G, Szántó S, Kiss E, Bodolay E, Zeher M, Timár O, Szodoray P, Szegedi G, Szekanecz Z. Comparative assessment of vascular function in autoimmune rheumatic diseases: considerations of prevention and treatment. Autoimmun Rev 2011; 10:416-25. [PMID: 21281743 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2011.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2011] [Accepted: 01/08/2011] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Numerous autoimmune-inflammatory rheumatic diseases have been associated with accelerated atherosclerosis or other types of vasculopathy leading to increased cardio- and cerebrovascular disease risk. Traditional risk factors, as well as the role of systemic inflammation including cytokines, chemokines, proteases, autoantibodies, adhesion receptors and others have been implicated in the development of these vascular pathologies. The characteristics of vasculopathies may significantly differ depending on the underlying disease. While classical accelerated atherosclerosis has been associated with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) or spondyloarthropathies (SpA), obliterative vasculopathy may rather be characteristic for systemic sclerosis (SSc) or mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD). Antiphospholipid antibodies have been implicated in vasculopathies underlying SLE, antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), RA and MCTD. There is also heterogeneity with respect to inflammatory risk factors. Cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) or interleukin 6 (IL-6) and immune complexes are primarily involved in arthritides, such as RA, SpA, as well as in SLE. On the other hand, autoantibodies including anti-oxLDL anti-cardiolipin and anti-β2GPI are rather involved in SLE- and APS-associated vasculopathies. Regarding the non-invasive assessment of vascular function, endothelial dysfunction, overt atherosclerosis and vascular stiffness may be indicated by brachial artery flow-mediated vasodilation (FMD), common carotid intima-media thickness (ccIMT) and aortic pulse-wave velocity (PWV), respectively. These abnormalities have been described in most inflammatory rheumatic diseases. While ccIMT and stiffness are relatively stable, FMD may be influenced by many confounding factors. In addition to traditional vasculoprotection, immunosuppressive agents including corticosteroids, traditional and biologic DMARDs may have significant vascular and metabolic effects. The official EULAR recommendations on the assessment and management of cardiovascular disease in arthritides have just been published, and similar recommendations in connective tissue diseases are to be developed soon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pál Soltész
- University of Debrecen Medical and Health Sciences Center, Institute of Medicine, Third Department of Medicine, Angiology and Intensive Care Unit, Debrecen, Hungary
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21
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Biochemical and genetic risk factors for atherosclerosis in systemic lupus erythematosus. EGYPTIAN RHEUMATOLOGIST 2011. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejr.2010.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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23
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Boffa JJ, Rougier JP, Noël N, Ronco P. [High cardiovascular complications in systemic lupus erythematosus: physiopathology and risk management]. Nephrol Ther 2009; 5:595-602. [PMID: 19733524 DOI: 10.1016/j.nephro.2009.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2008] [Revised: 06/19/2009] [Accepted: 06/20/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Today, cardiovascular mortality is the first cause of mortality in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). A 40-year-old woman with SLE is over 50 times more likely to have a myocardial infraction than a healthy woman of similar age. The high CV risk has a double origin: an early and progressive atherosclerosis and a prothrombotic propensity. Multiple factors are incriminated, including a higher prevalence of traditional CV risk factors in SLE population, as well as SLE-specific factors. Autoantibodies can modify lipid profile, induce tissue factor synthesis, favour clotting and endothelial apoptosis. Moreover, endothelial dysfunction and permanent chronic inflammation are present. Treatments are occasionally involved. To reduce more efficiently CV risk in SLE patients, we propose to consider SLE has a complete CV risk factor that should be implemented for CV risk management. This medical procedure of CV risk estimation is unusual in young patients. Its implementation in SLE patients requires a modification of medical practices. CV risk management in SLE patients include identification of optimal targets for each traditional risk factor and SLE specific treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Jacques Boffa
- Service de néphrologie et dialyses, hôpital Tenon, AP-HP, Paris, France.
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24
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Ghosh P, Kumar A, Kumar S, Aggarwal A, Sinha N, Misra R. Subclinical atherosclerosis and endothelial dysfunction in young South-Asian patients with systemic lupus erythematosus. Clin Rheumatol 2009; 28:1259-65. [PMID: 19618302 DOI: 10.1007/s10067-009-1228-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2009] [Revised: 06/09/2009] [Accepted: 06/29/2009] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), especially Asian Indians, are at increased risk of developing premature atherosclerosis. To find out the prevalence and predictors of carotid intima-medial thickness (IMT) and brachial artery flow-mediated dilatation (FMD). Endothelial dysfunction was assessed by FMD in brachial artery and IMT was measured in common carotid artery in SLE patients and healthy controls. Sixty SLE patients (mean age 31 +/- 9 years) and 38 healthy controls (mean age 34 +/- 6 years) were included. The IMT was higher in SLE patients as compared to controls (0.49 +/- 0.08 mm vs. 0.39 +/- 0.05 mm, p < 0.0001). SLE and damage were independent predictors of abnormal IMT. FMD was impaired in SLE patients compared to controls (9.97% vs. 18.97%, p < 0.00001). None of the classical cardiovascular risk factors were predictors of FMD or abnormal IMT. Indian patients with SLE have higher prevalence of subclinical atherosclerosis and endothelial dysfunction. Presence of damage was associated with abnormal IMT in SLE patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parasar Ghosh
- Department of Immunology, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, India
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25
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Cacciapaglia F, Zardi EM, Coppolino G, Buzzulini F, Margiotta D, Arcarese L, Vadacca M, Amoroso A, Afeltra A. Stiffness parameters, intima-media thickness and early atherosclerosis in systemic lupus erythematosus patients. Lupus 2009; 18:249-56. [DOI: 10.1177/0961203308097571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Detection of early carotid vascular disease in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is considered mandatory for evaluation of subclinical atherosclerosis (ATS), and various ultrasonographic (US) parameters have been proposed. In the present investigation, 33 SLE and 33 healthy age-matched females have been studied by colour-coded sonography of the common carotid artery, assessing intima-media thickness (IMT), vascular strain (VS), vascular distensibility (VD), vascular stiffness (VSf) and pressure-strain elastic modulus (PSEM) as possible markers of early ATS. Patients with SLE, despite equivalent exposure to “traditional” cardiovascular risk factors, presented a higher mean IMT of the common carotid artery than healthy subjects (0.7 ± 0.2 mm vs 0.5 ± 0.1 mm – P < 0.0001). Of the stiffness parameters, patients with lupus showed a mean VSf of 0.72 ± 0.38 vs 0.54 ± 0.14 in controls ( P < 0.0001) and a mean PSEM of 6.0 ± 2.8 Pa vs 3.0 ± 1.4 Pa in controls ( P < 0.0001). Mean VS and VD were significantly lower in patients with SLE than in healthy subjects ( P < 0.0001). Among individuals with IMT < 0.6 mm, patients with SLE presented more compromised stiffness parameters. IMT was shown to be a useful parameter in the evaluation of vascular damage, even in a “sub-clinical” phase, while stiffness parameters provide additional details regarding endothelial and vessel functional state. Combined evaluation may allow ATS to be detected in the early stages in patients with SLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Cacciapaglia
- Department of Clinical Medicine, “Campus Bio-Medico” University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - EM Zardi
- Department of Clinical Medicine, “Campus Bio-Medico” University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - G Coppolino
- Department of Clinical Medicine, “Campus Bio-Medico” University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - F Buzzulini
- Department of Clinical Medicine, “Campus Bio-Medico” University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - D Margiotta
- Department of Clinical Medicine, “Campus Bio-Medico” University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - L Arcarese
- Department of Clinical Medicine, “Campus Bio-Medico” University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - M Vadacca
- Department of Clinical Medicine, “Campus Bio-Medico” University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - A Amoroso
- Department of Clinical Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - A Afeltra
- Department of Clinical Medicine, “Campus Bio-Medico” University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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26
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Grisar J, Smolen JS. Comment on: Systemic lupus erythematosus patients exhibit functional deficiencies of endothelial progenitor cells: reply. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2009. [DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/ken508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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