Immunosuppressive Treatment in Antiphospholipid Syndrome: Is It Worth It?

S-hydroxychloroquine prevents the antiphospholipid thrombogenic complexes for antiphospholipid syndrome treatment

Clinically used in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) exerts antithrombotic effects by inhibiting anti-β2-glycoprotein I (anti-β2GPI) antibody binding to phospholipid bilayers. However, HCQ is a racemic mixture, with only one enantiomer offering therapeutic benefits, while the other may contribute to toxicity. The current study evaluated the thromboprophylactic efficacy of R-enantiomer Hydroxychloroquine (R-HCQ), S-enantiomer Hydroxychloroquine (S-HCQ), and racemic HCQ (Rac-HCQ), with a focus on their impact on APS-associated markers. Both in vitro and in vivo models were employed, with human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and mice immunized with human β2-glycoprotein I antibodies used to evaluate the formation of antiphospholipid thrombotic complexes and their modulation by HCQ enantiomers. S-HCQ significantly reduced β2GPI complex binding and restored the AnxA5 anticoagulant shield in vitro, demonstrating superior efficacy over R-HCQ in disrupting β2GPI/anti-β2GPI interactions and preventing endothelial dysfunction in APS models. Pretreatment of HUVECs with S-HCQ significantly attenuated the expression of proinflammatory cytokines (tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin-6, interleukin-1 beta, and C-C motif ligand 2) and endothelial activation markers (intercellular adhesion molecule 1, vascular cell adhesion molecule 1, and E-selectin). S-HCQ alleviates endothelial dysfunction by reducing proinflammatory cytokines, endothelial activation markers, and NO production while downregulating iNOS expression, highlighting its potential to mitigate oxidative stress and thrombogenic activity in APS-related endothelial damage. In vivo, S-HCQ effectively reduced clot formation in the femoral veins of APS mouse models. Among the HCQ enantiomers tested, S-HCQ demonstrated superior efficacy in modulating inflammatory and angiogenic pathways, influencing the formation of antiphospholipid thrombotic complexes and mitigating thrombosis. These findings underscore the potential of S-HCQ as a therapeutic alternative for APS management.

Antiphospholipid syndrome, monoclonal gammopathy, and cryoglobulinemia overlap leading to recurrent cutaneous microvascular thrombosis: A case report and retrospective cohort study

Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), cryoglobulinemia, and monoclonal gammopathies are variably accompanied by thrombotic complications. We describe a patient with recurrent skin microvascular thrombosis, APS, cryoglobulinemia, marginal zone lymphoma, and IgMκ monoclonal gammopathy, responsive to chemoimmunotherapy. The cryoglobulin fraction contained the IgMκ paraprotein, while antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) were predominantly in the cryosupernatant. A retrospective analysis of aPL-positive patients in our institution showed that 8.1% co-expressed monoclonal gammopathy. These overlap patients had thrombotic complications and most had recurrences. Patients with multiple gammopathies of thrombotic significance may have several autoantibodies and constitute a high-risk group.

Impact of modulators of nitric oxide synthesis on the level of cytokines in bronchoalveolar lavage in experimental antiphospholipid syndrome

OBJECTIVE

Aim: The aim of the research is to study the cytokine prof i le (IL-1β, IL 6, TNF-α, IL-4, IL-10) in bronchoalveolar lavage of lungs in experimental APS and its correction with L-arginine and aminoguanidine.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Materials and Methods: Antiphospholipid syndrome was modeled on white female BALB/c mice. L-arginine (25 mg/kg) and aminoguanidine (10 mg/kg) were used for its correction. The concentration of cytokines in bronchoalveolar lavage from the lungs was assessed using the ELISA test.

RESULTS

Results: It was established that in cases of APS the concentration of proinf l ammatory cytokines IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-a increased in 1.9, 2.3 and 6.6 times, respectively, compare to the control. At the same time a decrease of the IL-4 in 1.7 and IL-10 in 1.8 times was found in the APS group compare to the control. L-arginine reduced the level of proinf l ammatory cytokines IL-1β by 22%, IL-6 - by 36%, and TNF-α - by 23% compare to the animals with APS. At the same time, the level of anti-inf l ammatory cytokines increased: IL-4 - by 46%, IL-10 - by 57% compare to the APS animal group. Aminoguanidine, a selective iNOS inhibitor, did not cause any signif i cant decrease in pro-inf l ammatory cytokines but the level of anti-inf l ammatory cytokines IL-4 increased by 44% and IL-10 - by 49%.

CONCLUSION

Conclusions: The precursor of the NO synthesis L-arginine leads to a decrease in the concentrations of IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-a and an increase of IL-4 and IL-10 compare to the group of BALB/c mice with APS.

Calcinosis Cutis and Calciphylaxis in Autoimmune Connective Tissue Diseases

Calcinosis represents a severe complication of several autoimmune disorders. Soft-tissue calcifications have been classified into five major types: dystrophic, metastatic, idiopathic, iatrogenic, and calciphylaxis. Autoimmune diseases are usually associated with dystrophic calcifications, including calcinosis cutis, occurring in damaged or devitalized tissues in the presence of normal serum levels of calcium and phosphate. In particular, calcinosis cutis has been described in dermatomyositis, polymyositis, juvenile dermatomyositis, systemic sclerosis, systemic lupus erythematosus, primary Sjögren's syndrome, overlap syndrome, mixed connective tissue disease, and rheumatoid arthritis. Calciphylaxis, a severe and life-threatening syndrome presenting with vascular calcifications and thrombosis, has also been associated with some autoimmune conditions. Due to the potentially disabling character of calcinosis cutis and calciphylaxis, physicians' awareness about the clinical presentation and management of these diseases should be increased to select the most appropriate treatment option and avoid long-term complications. In this review, we aim to analyze the clinical features of calcinosis cutis and calciphylaxis associated with autoimmune diseases, and the main treatment strategies evaluated up to now for treating this potentially disabling disease.

Changes in Clinical Manifestations and Course of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Secondary Antiphospholipid Syndrome over Three Decades

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is often associated with antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), which potentially results in a more severe disease course and reduced life expectancy. Since the therapeutic guidelines have been refined in the last 15 years, we assumed that the diseases course has become more favorable. In order to shed light on these achievements, we compared the data of SLE patients diagnosed before and since 2004. In our retrospective study, we assessed a wide spectrum of clinical and laboratory data of 554 SLE patients who received regular follow-up care and therapy at our autoimmune center. Among these patients, 247 had antiphospholipid antibodies (APAs) without clinical signs of APS, and 113 had definitive APS. In the APS group, among patients diagnosed since 2004, deep vein thrombosis (p = 0.049) and lupus anticoagulant positivity (p = 0.045) were more frequent, while acute myocardial infarction was less frequent (p = 0.021) compared with patients diagnosed before 2004. Among the APA positive patients without definitive APS, anti-cardiolipin antibody positivity (p = 0.024) and development of chronic renal failure (p = 0.005) decreased in patients diagnosed since 2004. Our study demonstrates that the disease course has changed in recent years; however, in the presence of APS, we have to expect repeated thrombotic events despite adequate anticoagulant therapy.

Biological therapy in systemic lupus erythematosus, antiphospholipid syndrome, and Sjögren's syndrome: evidence- and practice-based guidance

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), and Sjögren's syndrome (SS) are heterogeneous autoimmune diseases. Severe manifestations and refractory/intolerance to conventional immunosuppressants demand other options, namely biological drugs, and small molecules. We aimed to define evidence and practice-based guidance for the off-label use of biologics in SLE, APS, and SS. Recommendations were made by an independent expert panel, following a comprehensive literature review and two consensus rounds. The panel included 17 internal medicine experts with recognized practice in autoimmune disease management. The literature review was systematic from 2014 until 2019 and later updated by cross-reference checking and experts' input until 2021. Preliminary recommendations were drafted by working groups for each disease. A revision meeting with all experts anticipated the consensus meeting held in June 2021. All experts voted (agree, disagree, neither agree nor disagree) during two rounds, and recommendations with at least 75% agreement were approved. A total of 32 final recommendations (20 for SLE treatment, 5 for APS, and 7 for SS) were approved by the experts. These recommendations consider organ involvement, manifestations, severity, and response to previous treatments. In these three autoimmune diseases, most recommendations refer to rituximab, which aligns with the higher number of studies and clinical experience with this biological agent. Belimumab sequential treatment after rituximab may also be used in severe cases of SLE and SS. Second-line therapy with baricitinib, bortezomib, eculizumab, secukinumab, or tocilizumab can be considered in SLE-specific manifestations. These evidence and practice-based recommendations may support treatment decision and, ultimately, improve the outcome of patients living with SLE, APS, or SS.

An Antiphospholipid Antibody Profile as a Biomarker for Thrombophilia in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Despite recent advances in treatment and significant improvements in prognosis, thrombosis remains the major cause of death in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) are the main triggers of thrombosis in patients with SLE, with a frequency of approximately 30-40%. Lupus anticoagulant, anticardiolipin, and anti-β2-glycoprotein I antibodies, which are included in the criteria for antiphospholipid syndrome, and 'non-criteria' aPL such as anti-phosphatidylserine/prothrombin complex antibodies, are risk factors for thrombosis in patients with SLE. Multiple positivity for aPL is also associated with an increased risk of thrombosis, and scores calculated from aPL profiles can predict the risk of developing thrombosis. Although there is insufficient evidence for treatment, aPL-positive SLE patients should/may be treated with anticoagulants and/or low-dose aspirin as appropriate. This review summarises the evidence on the clinical significance of the aPL profile as a biomarker of thrombophilia in patients with SLE.

B-Cells and BAFF in Primary Antiphospholipid Syndrome, Targets for Therapy?

Primary antiphospholipid syndrome (PAPS) is a systemic autoimmune disease characterized by thrombosis, pregnancy morbidity, and the presence of antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL). Anticoagulants form the mainstay of treatment in PAPS. A growing number of studies suggest a previously underappreciated role of the immune system in the pathophysiology of PAPS. Although B-cells are strongly implicated in the pathophysiology of other autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), little is known about the role of B-cells in PAPS. Shifts in B-cell subsets including increases in plasmablasts and higher levels of BAFF are present in patients with PAPS. However, while treatment with rituximab and belimumab may ameliorate thrombotic and non-thrombotic manifestations of PAPS, these treatments do not reduce aPL serum levels, suggesting that B-cells contribute to the pathophysiology of APS beyond the production of autoantibodies.

The challenges in diagnosing pediatric primary antiphospholipid syndrome

Pediatric primary antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is a very rare disease with significant distinctions from the APS in adults. Herein, we present our experience in the diagnosis and treatment of six pediatric primary APS patients, who met the updated Sapporo criteria for the APS diagnosis. One of them was also diagnosed as having probable catastrophic APS (CAPS) due to the involvement of three different organ systems simultaneously. Besides vascular involvement, four patients had thrombocytopenia, one had psychiatric disorder, and one had chorea and valvular heart disease. All patients received immunosuppressive treatment along with long-term anticoagulation therapy. Specific neurologic and hematologic manifestations that are not part of the classification criteria can be seen in children with primary APS. Therefore, using the adult criteria for diagnosing pediatric APS may result in missed or delayed diagnoses in children.

Disability and cognitive impairment are interdependent in primary antiphospholipid syndrome

BACKGROUND

Cognitive impairment (CI) occurs at a high frequency in primary antiphospholipid syndrome (PAPS). Its psychosocial-related factors are of interest.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to determine disability and perceived stress and their correlation with CI in PAPS.

METHODS

First study phase: a longitudinal study including patients with PAPS and paired controls for cardiovascular risk factors, age, and sex, determining CI with Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) and then repeating the measurement 1 year later. Second study phase: a cross-sectional analytical study by quantification of disability with the World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule (WHODAS 2.0) and perceived stress with the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-14). Descriptive statistics and Spearman correlation coefficient were used.

RESULTS

Sixty-three patients with PAPS and 60 controls were studied. In PAPS, age (range, 48.0 ± 13.5 years), thrombotic artery events (TAE) (44.4%), and stroke/TIA (42.8%) were found. Disability was documented in the majority of WHODAS 2.0 domains and the total score for this was higher in participation and mobility, the stress level was normal, and 65.1% had CI. PAPS exhibited greater deterioration in the WHODAS 2.0 total score (p .017) and the MoCA test (p < .0001). Personal domains and the total WHODAS 2.0 score correlated inversely with MoCA. Life activities (rho = -0.419) and self-care (rho = -0.407) were those that correlated to the greatest degree. Stroke conferred risk for CI.

CONCLUSIONS

Disability in PAPS and CI are interdependent. New treatment options and neurocognitive stimulation strategies are necessary to maintain functionality and prevent further cognitive dysfunction in PAPS patients.

Preliminary Study on the Imbalance Between Th17 and Regulatory T Cells in Antiphospholipid Syndrome

Objective

Patients with antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) have immune cell abnormalities that remain poorly understood. This study compared primary APS (PAPS) and secondary APS (SAPS) patients with healthy controls with respect to peripheral blood lymphocytes, CD4+T cell subsets, and cytokine levels. The correlation between antiphospholipid antibody titres and T helper 17 (Th17) and T regulatory (Treg) cell subsets was also analyzed, together with the correlations between cytokine profiles and the clinical characteristics of APS patients.

Methods

The retrospective study population consisted of 67 APS patients (12 with PAPS, 55 with SAPS) and 40 healthy controls. Absolute numbers of peripheral blood lymphocyte subsets and CD4+ T cell subsets were detected by flow cytometry, and serum cytokine levels by flow cytometry bead array.

Results

Patients with SAPS had lower absolute values of T, B and CD4+T cells than the healthy control group, while only natural killer (NK) cell levels were decreased in patients with PAPS. Absolute numbers of T, B, NK, and CD4+T cells were significantly higher in the PAPS than SAPS group. The trends in CD4+T cell subsets were the same in PAPS and SAPS patients as in healthy controls, with increased Th1, decreased Th2, and decreased Treg levels, and thus an increased Th17/Treg ratio. Th2, Th17, and Treg cell counts were higher in the PAPS than SAPS group. Cytokine analysis showed that only IL-10 levels differed between the two APS groups. However, the levels of all of the studied cytokines were higher in APS patients than healthy controls, and correlated with the clinical characteristics of the patients. In the PAPS group, the titres of two autoantibodies correlated positively with the Th17/Treg ratio and negatively with the levels of D-dimer and Treg subsets.

Conclusions

Our study clearly showed that APS patients have immune disturbances, the most prominent of which is an increase in the Th17/Treg ratio, due to a decrease in the number of Treg cells. These abnormalities may be involved in the occurrence and progression of APS. An additional finding was a higher level of peripheral blood lymphocytes in PAPS than SAPS patients, which may be related to the immunosuppressive treatment of SAPS patients.

Managing Antiphospholipid Syndrome in Children and Adolescents: Current and Future Prospects

Pediatric antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is a rare acquired multisystem autoimmune thromboinflammatory condition characterized by thrombotic and non-thrombotic clinical manifestations. APS in children and adolescents typically presents with large-vessel thrombosis, thrombotic microangiopathy, and, rarely, obstetric morbidity. Non-thrombotic clinical manifestations are frequently seen in pediatric APS and may be present even before the vascular thrombotic events occur. We review insights into the pathogenesis of APS and discuss potential targets for therapy. The identification of multiple immunologic abnormalities in patients with APS reveals molecular targets for current or future treatment. Management strategies, especially for APS in adolescents, require screening for additional prothrombotic risk factors and consideration of counseling regarding contraceptive strategies, lifestyle recommendations, treatment adherence, and mental health issues associated with this autoimmune thrombophilia. The main goal of therapy in pediatric APS is the prevention of thrombosis. The management of acute thrombosis events in children and adolescents is the same as for primary APS, which involves isolated occurrences, and secondary APS, which is seen in association with another autoimmune disease, e.g., systemic lupus erythematosus. A pediatric hematologist should be consulted so other differential thrombophilic conditions can be eliminated. Therapy includes unfractionated heparin or low-molecular-weight heparin followed by vitamin K antagonists. Treatment of catastrophic APS involves triple therapy (anticoagulation, intravenous corticosteroid pulse therapy, and plasma exchange) and may include intravenous immunoglobulin for children and adolescents with this condition. New drugs such as eculizumab and sirolimus seem to be promising drugs for APS.