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Li EC, Lai QL, Cai MT, Fang GL, Fang W, Zheng Y, Du Y, Du BQ, Shen CH, Qiao S, Ding MP, Zhang YX. Chronic lymphocytic inflammation with pontine perivascular enhancement responsive to steroids (CLIPPERS): contemporary advances and current controversies. J Neurol 2024; 271:1747-1766. [PMID: 38286842 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-024-12189-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/31/2024]
Abstract
Chronic lymphocytic inflammation with pontine perivascular enhancement responsive to steroids (CLIPPERS) is an inflammatory syndrome with characteristic clinical, radiological, and pathological features, and can be effectively treated with corticosteroid-based immunotherapies. The exact pathogenesis of CLIPPERS remains unclear, and specific diagnostic biomarkers are not available. According to the 2017 diagnostic criteria, probable CLIPPERS should be considered in middle-aged patients with subacute onset of pontocerebellar symptoms and typical punctuate and curvilinear gadolinium enhancement lesions ("salt-and-pepper" appearance) located in the hindbrain (especially pons) on magnetic resonance imaging. In addition, CLIPPERS-mimics, such as central nervous system (CNS) lymphoma, and several antibody-associated autoimmune CNS diseases (e.g., myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody-associated disease, autoimmune glial fibrillary acidic protein astrocytopathy, and anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor encephalitis), should be extensively excluded. The prerequisite for definite CLIPPERS is the perivascular T-cell-predominant inflammatory infiltration observed on pathological analysis. A biopsy is strongly suggested when clinical/radiological red flags are present. Most patients with CLIPPERS respond well to corticosteroids and have a good prognosis. Long-term low-dose corticosteroid maintenance therapy or corticosteroids coupled with immunosuppressants are recommended to prevent the recurrence of the syndrome. The potential progression of CLIPPERS to lymphoma has been suggested in some cases; therefore, at least 2-year clinical and radiological follow-up is essential. Here, we critically review the recent developments and provided an update on the clinical characteristics, diagnostic criteria, differential diagnoses, and therapeutic management of CLIPPERS. We also discuss the current controversies in this context that can be resolved in future research studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Er-Chuang Li
- Department of Neurology, Taikang Ningbo Hospital, Ningbo, 315042, China
| | - Qi-Lun Lai
- Department of Neurology, Zhejiang Hospital, Hangzhou, 310013, China
| | - Meng-Ting Cai
- Department of Neurology, Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Gao-Li Fang
- Department of Neurology, Zhejiang Chinese Medicine and Western Medicine Integrated Hospital, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Wei Fang
- Department of Neurology, Hangzhou TCM Hospital Affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310007, China
| | - Yang Zheng
- Department of Neurology, First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310006, China
| | - Ye Du
- Department of Neurology, Shaoxing People's Hospital, Shaoxing, 312000, China
| | - Bing-Qing Du
- Department of Neurology, Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Chun-Hong Shen
- Department of Neurology, Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Song Qiao
- Department of Neurology, Zhejiang Hospital, Hangzhou, 310013, China
| | - Mei-Ping Ding
- Department of Neurology, Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, China.
| | - Yin-Xi Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, China.
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Thebault S, Bergman H, Atkins HL, Freedman MS, Brooks J. CLIPPERS Responsive to Cladribine as a Durable Steroid-Sparing Agent. NEUROLOGY - NEUROIMMUNOLOGY NEUROINFLAMMATION 2023; 10:10/1/e200060. [DOI: 10.1212/nxi.0000000000200060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
ObjectiveWe report a case of chronic lymphocytic inflammation with pontine perivascular enhancement responsive to steroids (CLIPPERS) who achieved durable and steroid-free remission after IV cladribine.MethodsA 25 year-old man presented with progressively worsening headaches, polydipsia, dysarthria, diplopia and vertigo, and obtundation requiring respiratory support. CSF revealed lymphocytosis, and MRI revealed a perivascular pattern of punctate enhancement involving the pons. An extensive workup for inflammatory, autoimmune, infective, and malignant explanations was unrevealing. He responded dramatically to steroids, compatible with CLIPPERS as a diagnosis of exclusion. Attempts to wean prednisone over the ensuing year resulted in 2 clinical relapses and persistent punctate enhancement. Given significant steroid side effects, steroid-sparing agents were considered.ResultsIV cladribine IV (0.0875 mg/kg adjusted body weight daily × 4 days at 0, 4, 8, and 16 months) was selected, given its favorable side effect profile including lower risks of malignancy and infertility and the potential for long-lasting effects. The only side effect was short-term fatigue at the time of infusion. At 20 months after cladribine initiation, he was able to wean-off prednisone altogether. Now at 33 months, he remains in clinical and MRI remission.DiscussionCladribine is a rational candidate steroid-sparing treatment for presumed neurologic autoimmune conditions such as CLIPPERS.Classification of EvidenceThis study provides Class IV evidence that cladribine is a steroid-sparing treatment consideration in CLIPPERS.
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Al-Chalabi M, DelCimmuto NR, Beran A, Devarasetty PP, Mhanna A, Mahfooz N, Sheikh A. Clinical characteristics, management, and outcomes of CLIPPERS: A comprehensive systematic review of 140 patients from 100 studies. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2022; 68:104112. [PMID: 36029706 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2022.104112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Revised: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Chronic lymphocytic inflammation with pontine perivascular enhancement responsive to steroids (CLIPPERS) is a rare inflammatory disorder of the central nervous system, characterized by symptoms referable to the brainstem and cerebellum such as, diplopia, gait ataxia and cerebellar dysarthria. The features and outcomes of CLIPPERS remains uncertain. we conducted this comprehensive systematic review to summarize all the existing studies that described CLIPPERS in the literature and to provide a quantitative assessment on the clinical characteristics, management, and outcomes of this rare syndrome. METHODS A comprehensive search of PubMed and Web of Science databases was conducted from inception until January 15, 2022, was conducted. We only included the cases that clearly reported probable or definite diagnosis of CLIPPERS based on Taieb et al.'s criteria. The quality of the included studies was assessed using the JBI Critical Appraisal Tool. Descriptive statistics were performed to analyze the studies. Data were expressed as mean and standard deviation (SD) for continuous variables and proportions for categorical variables. RESULTS We identified 100 case reports and series including a total of 140 patients with CLIPPERS (mean age: 46±18 years and males were 60%). The average follow-up duration was 32.27±57.8 months. Ataxia was the most common presenting symptom. Sixteen percent of the cases were associated with malignancy, mostly hematologic malignancies. The overall relapse rate was 59.2%, and the duration of steroid therapy was considerably shorter in the relapsed cases than in the non-relapsed (mean 6.19±7.9 vs. 10.14±12.1 days, respectively, P = 0.04). The overall mortality rate was 10%, but mortality in patients with malignancy was 30% and it was 12% in patients with relapses. In the case of steroid dosing (less than 20 mg/d versus greater than 20 mg/d) there was no significant modification in the risk of relapse. CONCLUSION CLIPPERS is a rare clinical syndrome that affects mainly middle-aged males. Diagnosis of CLIPPERS is often challenging, and delays in diagnosis and treatment can lead to unfavorable outcomes. Therefore, neurologists should maintain a high index of suspicion for CLIPPERS in any patient presenting with symptoms and signs referrable to the brainstem. These patients should be screened for associated malignancies, especially hematological malignancies. The cases associated with malignancy tend to have worse outcomes. The relapse rate is relatively high. The relapse rate may be associated with worse mortality. Based on our findings, we recommend that CLIPPERS be treated with high-dose steroid therapy for at least ten days during the acute phase with a very slow taper. Prospective studies with a larger sample size are needed to validate our findings and guide the clinical care of these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mustafa Al-Chalabi
- Department of Neurology, University of Toledo, 2130W Central Ave., Toledo, OH 43606, United States.
| | - Nicholas R DelCimmuto
- College of Medicine and Life Sciences, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH, United States
| | - Azizullah Beran
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Toledo, OH, United States
| | | | - Asmaa Mhanna
- The University of Toledo, Promedica Toledo Hospital, Toledo, OH, United States
| | - Naeem Mahfooz
- Department of Neurology, University of Toledo, 2130W Central Ave., Toledo, OH 43606, United States; College of Medicine and Life Sciences, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH, United States
| | - Ajaz Sheikh
- Department of Neurology, University of Toledo, 2130W Central Ave., Toledo, OH 43606, United States; College of Medicine and Life Sciences, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH, United States
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Cooray S, Sabanathan S, Hacohen Y, Worth A, Eleftheriou D, Hemingway C. Treatment Strategies for Central Nervous System Effects in Primary and Secondary Haemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis in Children. Curr Treat Options Neurol 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s11940-022-00705-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Purpose of Review
This review presents an appraisal of current therapeutic options for the treatment of central nervous system haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (CNS-HLH) in the context of systemic disease, as well as when CNS features occur in isolation. We present the reader with a diagnostic approach to CNS-HLH and commonly used treatment protocols. We discuss and evaluate newer treatments on the horizon.
Recent Findings
Mortality is high in patients who do not undergo HSCT, and while larger studies are required to establish benefit in many treatments, a number of new treatments are currently being evaluated. Alemtuzumab is being used as a first-line treatment for CNS-HLH in a phase I/II multicentre prospective clinical trial as an alternative to traditional HLH-1994 and 2004 protocols. It has also been used successfully as a second-line agent for the treatment of isolated CNS-HLH that is refractory to standard treatment. Ruxolitinib and emapalumab are new immunotherapies that block the Janus kinase—Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription (JAK-STAT) pathway that have shown efficacy in refractory HLH, including for CNS-HLH disease.
Summary
Treatment of CNS-HLH often requires HLH-94 or 2004 protocols followed by haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) to maintain remission, although relapse can occur, particularly with reduced intensity conditioning if donor chimerism falls. CNS features have been shown to improve or stabilise following HSCT in CNS-HLH in the context of systemic disease and in isolated CNS-HLH. Encouraging reports of early cohort studies suggest alemtuzumab and the Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor ruxolitinib offer potential salvage therapy for relapsed and refractory CNS-HLH. Newer immunotherapies such as tocilizumab and natalizumab have been shown to be beneficial in sporadic cases. CNS-HLH due to primary gene defects may be amenable to gene therapy in the future.
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Ambia AR, AlZahrani N, Almakadma AH, Elgazzar TA, Almustanyir S. Chronic Lymphocytic Inflammation With Pontine Perivascular Enhancement Responsive to Steroids: An Acute Presentation. Cureus 2022; 14:e21382. [PMID: 35198294 PMCID: PMC8853718 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.21382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic lymphocytic inflammation with pontine perivascular enhancement responsive to steroids (CLIPPERS) is a rare disease with an unknown etiology which most commonly results in subacute diplopia and ataxia. Diagnosis is achieved through a triad of the following findings: lymphocytic pleocytosis with increased CD4+ T cells on cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis; perivascular punctate and curvilinear hemorrhages in the pons, medulla, or cerebellum on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with contrast; and the cessation of symptoms after the initiation of corticosteroids. Here, we report the case of a 23-year-old male who presented with non-specific signs and symptoms, including diffuse weakness in all limbs, ataxia, and slurred speech. The diagnosis was achieved through a contrast MRI of the brain, suggestive of brainstem encephalitis, and a CSF analysis, which revealed elevated glucose and protein levels. Intravenous methylprednisolone was administered for five days and resulted in acute improvement of the patient’s clinical status. Repeat CSF analysis and MRI of the brain with contrast two weeks later showed resolution of previous findings. CLIPPERS syndrome is a newly identified disease thought to cause a predominantly inflammatory reaction in the pons, medulla, cerebellum, and supratentorial region. MRI with contrast tends to reveal a “salt and pepper appearance” in a punctate and curvilinear fashion. The hallmark of treatment is corticosteroid therapy, and discontinuation of therapy should be done with caution as relapse of the syndrome with corticosteroid withdrawal has been documented.
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Zoghaib R, Sreij A, Maalouf N, Freiha J, Kikano R, Riachi N, Chalah MA, Ayache SS, Ahdab R. Autoimmune Brainstem Encephalitis: An Illustrative Case and a Review of the Literature. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10132970. [PMID: 34279454 PMCID: PMC8269049 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10132970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2021] [Revised: 06/27/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune brainstem encephalitis (BSE) is a rare neurological condition with a wide range of underlying etiologies. It can be subdivided into two broad groups: a primary inflammatory disease of the central nervous system (CNS) or a brainstem disorder secondary to systemic diseases where the CNS is only one of many affected organs. Symptoms range from mild to life-threatening manifestations. Most cases respond well to immunotherapy. Therefore, broad and in-depth knowledge of the various inflammatory disorders that target the brainstem is essential for guiding the diagnostic approach and assisting in early initiation of appropriate therapy. We herein report on a case of BSE and provide an overview of the various causes of autoimmune BSE with an emphasis on the clinical manifestations and diagnostic approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romy Zoghaib
- Gilbert and Rose Mary Chagoury School of Medicine, Lebanese American University, Byblos 4504, Lebanon; (R.Z.); (A.S.); (N.M.); (J.F.); (R.K.); (N.R.)
- Neurology Department, Lebanese American University Medical Center, Rizk Hospital, Beirut 113288, Lebanon
| | - Ali Sreij
- Gilbert and Rose Mary Chagoury School of Medicine, Lebanese American University, Byblos 4504, Lebanon; (R.Z.); (A.S.); (N.M.); (J.F.); (R.K.); (N.R.)
- Neurology Department, Lebanese American University Medical Center, Rizk Hospital, Beirut 113288, Lebanon
| | - Nancy Maalouf
- Gilbert and Rose Mary Chagoury School of Medicine, Lebanese American University, Byblos 4504, Lebanon; (R.Z.); (A.S.); (N.M.); (J.F.); (R.K.); (N.R.)
- Neurology Department, Lebanese American University Medical Center, Rizk Hospital, Beirut 113288, Lebanon
| | - Joumana Freiha
- Gilbert and Rose Mary Chagoury School of Medicine, Lebanese American University, Byblos 4504, Lebanon; (R.Z.); (A.S.); (N.M.); (J.F.); (R.K.); (N.R.)
- Neurology Department, Lebanese American University Medical Center, Rizk Hospital, Beirut 113288, Lebanon
| | - Raghid Kikano
- Gilbert and Rose Mary Chagoury School of Medicine, Lebanese American University, Byblos 4504, Lebanon; (R.Z.); (A.S.); (N.M.); (J.F.); (R.K.); (N.R.)
- Radiology Department, Lebanese American University Medical Center, Rizk Hospital, Beirut 113288, Lebanon
| | - Naji Riachi
- Gilbert and Rose Mary Chagoury School of Medicine, Lebanese American University, Byblos 4504, Lebanon; (R.Z.); (A.S.); (N.M.); (J.F.); (R.K.); (N.R.)
- Neurology Department, Lebanese American University Medical Center, Rizk Hospital, Beirut 113288, Lebanon
| | - Moussa A. Chalah
- Service de Physiologie-Explorations Fonctionnelles, Hôpital Henri Mondor, Assistance Publique–Hôpitaux de Paris, 51 Avenue de Lattre de Tassigny, 94010 Créteil, France; (M.A.C.); (S.S.A.)
- EA 4391, Excitabilité Nerveuse et Thérapeutique, Université Paris-Est Créteil, 94010 Créteil, France
| | - Samar S. Ayache
- Service de Physiologie-Explorations Fonctionnelles, Hôpital Henri Mondor, Assistance Publique–Hôpitaux de Paris, 51 Avenue de Lattre de Tassigny, 94010 Créteil, France; (M.A.C.); (S.S.A.)
- EA 4391, Excitabilité Nerveuse et Thérapeutique, Université Paris-Est Créteil, 94010 Créteil, France
| | - Rechdi Ahdab
- Gilbert and Rose Mary Chagoury School of Medicine, Lebanese American University, Byblos 4504, Lebanon; (R.Z.); (A.S.); (N.M.); (J.F.); (R.K.); (N.R.)
- Neurology Department, Lebanese American University Medical Center, Rizk Hospital, Beirut 113288, Lebanon
- Hamidy Medical Center, Tripoli 1300, Lebanon
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +961-1-200800
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Pediatric central nervous system demyelinating diseases include multiple sclerosis (MS), neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD), and acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM). As diagnostic criteria become more inclusive, the risk of misdiagnosis of atypical demyelinating diseases of rheumatologic, infectious, and autoimmune etiology increases. RECENT FINDINGS We review mimics of multiple sclerosis, neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder, and acute disseminated encephalomyelitis, including rheumatologic diseases: systemic lupus erythematosus and neuro-Behçet disease; infectious diseases: human immunodeficiency virus, progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy, and subacute sclerosis panencephalitis; and autoimmune diseases including X-linked Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, chronic lymphocytic inflammation with pontine perivascular enhancement responsive to steroids (CLIPPERS) and autoimmune glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) encephalopathy. Atypical demyelinating disease may mimic classic neuroinflammatory diseases of the central nervous system. Imaging may meet criteria for a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis, or patients may present with optic neuritis and transverse myelitis consistent with neuromyelitis optica spectrum or myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) antibody disorders. Through careful history-taking and review of atypical MRI findings, we may avoid misdiagnosis and mistreatment.
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