Kidney Transplantation Improves Health-Related Quality of Life in Older Recipients

Kidney transplantation is the best treatment for kidney failure in older patients. However, little is known regarding changes in health-related quality of life (HRQoL) from before to after transplantation and determinants of HRQoL in older kidney transplant recipients (KTR). We studied both, using data of older (≥65 years) patients waitlisted for kidney transplantation and older KTR 1 year after transplantation from the TransplantLines Biobank and Cohort Study. HRQoL was assessed using the SF-36 questionnaire. We included 145 older waitlisted patients (68% male, age 70 ± 4 years) and 115 older KTR at 1 year after transplantation (73% male, age 70 ± 4 years). Both mental (48.5 ± 8.4 versus 51.2 ± 7.7, p = 0.009) and physical (47.4 ± 8.5 versus 52.1 ± 7.2, p < 0.001) HRQoL were higher among included KTR, compared to the waitlisted patients. In paired analyses among 46 patients with HRQoL-data both before and after transplantation, there was a trend towards increased mental HRQoL (49.1 ± 8.4 to 51.6 ± 7.5, p = 0.054), and significantly increased physical HRQoL (48.1 ± 8.0 to 52.4 ± 6.7, p = 0.001) after transplantation. Among all assessed factors, the number of patient-reported immunosuppressive drug-related side effects was most strongly negatively associated with both mental and physical HRQoL. In conclusion, HRQoL is significantly higher among older KTR after kidney transplantation compared to older waitlisted patients.

Comparison of 2 Immunosuppression Minimization Strategies in Kidney Transplantation: The ALLEGRO Trial

BACKGROUND

Evidence on the optimal maintenance of immunosuppressive regimen in kidney transplantation recipients is limited.

METHODS

The Amsterdam, LEiden, GROningen trial is a randomized, multicenter, investigator-driven, noninferiority, open-label trial in de novo kidney transplant recipients, in which 2 immunosuppression minimization strategies were compared with standard immunosuppression with basiliximab, corticosteroids, tacrolimus, and mycophenolic acid. In the minimization groups, either steroids were withdrawn from day 3, or tacrolimus exposure was reduced from 6 mo after transplantation. The primary endpoint was kidney transplant function at 24 mo.

RESULTS

A total of 295 participants were included in the intention-to-treat analysis. Noninferiority was shown for the primary endpoint; estimated glomerular filtration rate at 24 mo was 45.3 mL/min/1.73 m 2 in the early steroid withdrawal group, 49.0 mL/min/1.73 m 2 in the standard immunosuppression group, and 44.7 mL/min/1.73 m 2 in the tacrolimus minimization group. Participants in the early steroid withdrawal group were significantly more often treated for rejection ( P = 0.04). However, in this group, the number of participants with diabetes mellitus during follow-up and total cholesterol at 24 mo were significantly lower.

CONCLUSIONS

Tacrolimus minimization can be considered in kidney transplant recipients who do not have an increased immunological risk. Before withdrawing steroids the risk of rejection should be weighed against the potential metabolic advantages.

Smoking, Alcohol Intake and Torque Teno Virus in Stable Kidney Transplant Recipients

Torque Teno Virus (TTV) is a non-pathogenic virus that is highly prevalent among kidney transplant recipients (KTRs). Its circulating load is associated with an immunological status in KTR and is considered a promising tool for guiding immunosuppression. To allow for optimal guidance, it is important to identify other determinants of TTV load. We aimed to investigate the potential association of smoking and alcohol intake with TTV load. For this cross-sectional study, serum TTV load was measured using PCR in stable kidney transplant recipients at ≥1 year after transplantation, and smoking status and alcohol intake were assessed through questionnaires and measurements of urinary cotinine and ethyl glucuronide. A total of 666 KTRs were included (57% male). A total of 549 KTR (82%) had a detectable TTV load (3.1 ± 1.5 log10 copies/mL). In KTR with a detectable TTV load, cyclosporin and tacrolimus use were positively associated with TTV load (St. β = 0.46, p < 0.001 and St. β = 0.66, p < 0.001, respectively), independently of adjustment for potential confounders. Current smoking and alcohol intake of >20 g/day were negatively associated with TTV load (St. β = -0.40, p = 0.004 and St. β = -0.33, p = 0.009, respectively), independently of each other and of adjustment for age, sex, kidney function, time since transplantation and calcineurin inhibitor use. This strong association of smoking and alcohol intake with TTV suggests a need to account for the smoking status and alcohol intake when applying TTV guided immunosuppression in KTR.

Proton Pump Inhibitor Use, Fatigue, and Health-Related Quality of Life in Kidney Transplant Recipients: Results From the TransplantLines Biobank and Cohort Study

RATIONALE & OBJECTIVE

Prior studies report that the use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) can adversely affect gut microbiota and gastrointestinal uptake of micronutrients, in particular iron and magnesium, and are used frequently by kidney transplant recipients. Altered gut microbiota, iron deficiency, and magnesium deficiency have been implicated in the pathogenesis of chronic fatigue. Therefore, we hypothesized that PPI use may be an important and underappreciated cause of fatigue and reduced health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in this population.

STUDY DESIGN

Cross-sectional study.

SETTING & PARTICIPANTS

Kidney transplant recipients (≥1 year after transplantation) enrolled in the TransplantLines Biobank and Cohort Study.

EXPOSURE

PPI use, PPI type, PPI dosage, and duration of PPI use.

OUTCOME

Fatigue and HRQoL, assessed using the validated Checklist Individual Strength 20 Revised questionnaire and Short Form-36 questionnaire.

ANALYTICAL APPROACH

Logistic and linear regression.

RESULTS

We included 937 kidney transplant recipients (mean age 56±13 years, 39% female) at a median of 3 (1-10) years after transplantation. PPI use was associated with fatigue severity (regression coefficient 4.02, 95% CI, 2.18 to 5.85, P<0.001), a higher risk of severe fatigue (OR 2.05, 95% CI, 1.48 to 2.84, P<0.001), lower physical HRQoL (regression coefficient-8.54, 95% CI, -11.54 to-5.54, P<0.001), and lower mental HRQoL (regression coefficient-4.66, 95% CI, -7.15 to-2.17, P<0.001). These associations were independent of potential confounders including age, time since transplantation, history of upper gastrointestinal disease, antiplatelet therapy, and the total number of medications. They were present among all individually assessed PPI types and were dose dependent. Duration of PPI exposure was only associated with fatigue severity.

LIMITATIONS

Residual confounding and inability to assess causal relationships.

CONCLUSIONS

PPI use is independently associated with fatigue and lower HRQoL among kidney transplant recipients. PPI use might be an easily accessible target for alleviating fatigue and improving HRQoL among kidney transplant recipients. Further studies examining the effect of PPI exposure in this population are warranted.

Strategies to prevent SARS-CoV-2 transmission in hemodialysis centres across Europe - Lessons for the future

Background

Early reports on the pandemic nature of COVID-19 directed the nephrology community to develop infection prevention and control guidance. We aimed to make an inventory of strategies that dialysis centres followed to prevent infection with COVID-19 in the first pandemic wave.

Methods

We analyzed IPC measures taken by hemodialysis centres treating patients presenting with COVID-19 between March 1, 2020 and July 31, 2020 and that completed the European Renal Association COVID-19 Database centre questionnaire. Additionally, we made an inventory of guidelines published in European countries to prevent spread of SARS-CoV-2 in dialysis centres.

Results

Data from 73 dialysis units located in and bordering Europe were analyzed. All participating centres implemented IPC measures to mitigate the impact of SARS-CoV-2 during the first pandemic wave. Measures mentioned most often included triage with questions before entering the dialysis ward, measuring body temperature, hand disinfection, masking for all patients and staff, and personal protective equipment for staff members. These measures were also recommended in most of the 14 guidelines that were identified in the inventory of national guidelines and were also scored as being among the most important measures by the authors of this paper. Heterogeneity existed between centres and national guidelines regarding the minimal distance between dialysis chairs and recommendations regarding isolation and cohorting.

Conclusions

Although variation existed, measures to prevent transmission of SARS-CoV-2 were relatively similar across centres and national guidelines. Further research is needed to assess causal relationships between measures taken and spread of SARS-CoV-2.

Net Endogenous Acid Excretion and Kidney Allograft Outcomes

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

High dietary acid load may accelerate a decline in kidney function. We prospectively investigated whether dietary acid load is associated with graft outcomes in kidney transplant recipients, and whether venous bicarbonate mediates this association.

DESIGN, SETTING, PARTICIPANTS, & MEASUREMENTS

We used data from 642 kidney transplant recipients with a functioning graft ≥1 year after transplantation. Net endogenous acid production was estimated using food frequency questionnaires and, alternatively, 24-hour urinary urea and potassium excretion to estimate net endogenous acid production. We defined the composite kidney end point as a doubling of plasma creatinine or graft failure. Multivariable Cox regression analyses, adjusted for potential confounders, were used to study the associations of dietary acid load with the kidney end point. We evaluated potential mediation effects of venous bicarbonate, urinary bicarbonate excretion, urinary ammonium excretion, titratable acid excretion, and net acid excretion on the association between net endogenous acid production and the kidney end point.

RESULTS

The median net endogenous acid production using food frequency questionnaires and net endogenous acid production using urinary excretion were 40 (interquartile range, 35-45) and 54 (interquartile range, 44-66) mEq/day, respectively. During a median follow-up of 5.3 years (interquartile range, 4.1-6.0), 121 (19%) participants reached the kidney end point. After multivariable adjustment, net endogenous acid production using food frequency questionnaires and net endogenous acid production using urinary excretion (per SD higher) were independently associated with higher risk for kidney end point (hazard ratio, 1.33; 95% confidence interval, 1.12 to 1.57, P=0.001 and hazard ratio, 1.44; 95% confidence interval, 1.24 to 1.69, P<0.001, respectively). Baseline venous bicarbonate mediated 20% of the association between net endogenous acid production using food frequency questionnaires and the kidney end point. Baseline venous bicarbonate, urinary ammonium excretion, and net acid excretion mediated 25%, -14%, and -18%, respectively, of the association between net endogenous acid production using urinary excretion and the kidney end point.

CONCLUSIONS

Higher dietary acid load was associated with a higher risk of doubling of plasma creatinine or graft failure, and this association was partly mediated by venous bicarbonate, urinary ammonium, and net acid excretion.

Rationale and design of the OPTIMIZE trial: OPen label multicenter randomized trial comparing standard IMmunosuppression with tacrolimus and mycophenolate mofetil with a low exposure tacrolimus regimen In combination with everolimus in de novo renal transplantation in Elderly patients

BACKGROUND

In 2019, more than 30 % of all newly transplanted kidney transplant recipients in The Netherlands were above 65 years of age. Elderly patients are less prone to rejection, and death censored graft loss is less frequent compared to younger recipients. Elderly recipients do have increased rates of malignancy and infection-related mortality. Poor kidney transplant function in elderly recipients may be related to both pre-existing (i.e. donor-derived) kidney damage and increased susceptibility to nephrotoxicity of calcineurin inhibitors (CNIs) in kidneys from older donors. Hence, it is pivotal to shift the focus from prevention of rejection to preservation of graft function and prevention of over-immunosuppression in the elderly. The OPTIMIZE study will test the hypothesis that reduced CNI exposure in combination with everolimus will lead to better kidney transplant function, a reduced incidence of complications and improved health-related quality of life for kidney transplant recipients aged 65 years and older, compared to standard immunosuppression.

METHODS

This open label, randomized, multicenter clinical trial will include 374 elderly kidney transplant recipients (≥ 65 years) and consists of two strata. Stratum A includes elderly recipients of a kidney from an elderly deceased donor and stratum B includes elderly recipients of a kidney from a living donor or from a deceased donor < 65 years. In each stratum, subjects will be randomized to a standard, tacrolimus-based immunosuppressive regimen with mycophenolate mofetil and glucocorticoids or an adapted immunosuppressive regimen with reduced CNI exposure in combination with everolimus and glucocorticoids. The primary endpoint is 'successful transplantation', defined as survival with a functioning graft and an eGFR ≥ 30 ml/min per 1.73 m2 in stratum A and ≥ 45 ml/min per 1.73 m2 in stratum B, after 2 years, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The OPTIMIZE study will help to determine the optimal immunosuppressive regimen after kidney transplantation for elderly patients and the cost-effectiveness of this regimen. It will also provide deeper insight into immunosenescence and both subjective and objective outcomes after kidney transplantation in elderly recipients.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT03797196 , registered January 9th, 2019. EudraCT: 2018-003194-10, registered March 19th, 2019.

Ischemia and Reperfusion Injury in Kidney Transplantation: Relevant Mechanisms in Injury and Repair

Ischemia and reperfusion injury (IRI) is a complex pathophysiological phenomenon, inevitable in kidney transplantation and one of the most important mechanisms for non- or delayed function immediately after transplantation. Long term, it is associated with acute rejection and chronic graft dysfunction due to interstitial fibrosis and tubular atrophy. Recently, more insight has been gained in the underlying molecular pathways and signalling cascades involved, which opens the door to new therapeutic opportunities aiming to reduce IRI and improve graft survival. This review systemically discusses the specific molecular pathways involved in the pathophysiology of IRI and highlights new therapeutic strategies targeting these pathways.

Leg muscle strength is reduced and is associated with physical quality of life in Antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis

Objective

Physical quality of life is reduced in ANCA-associated vasculitis (AAV). This study aims to investigate whether this may be explained by reduced muscle strength and physical activity resulting from disease damage and steroid myopathy.

Methods

Forty-eight AAV patients were sequentially included from the outpatient clinic. Patients in different stages of disease and treatment underwent measurements of muscle strength and anthropometric parameters. Patients filled in physical activity (Baecke) and quality of life questionnaires (RAND-36) and carried an accelerometer for a week. Muscle strength and physical activity were compared to quality of life, prednisolone use and disease duration.

Results

Most AAV patients had lower knee extension (76%) and elbow flexion (67%) forces than expected based on healthy norms. Also, physical (P<0.001) and mental (P = 0.01) quality of life were significantly reduced compared to healthy norm values. Lower knee extension force (P = 0.009), younger age <70 (P<0.001) and relapse of vasculitis (P = 0.003) were associated with lower age-adjusted physical quality of life. Lower Baecke index (P = 0.006), higher prednisolone dose (P = 0.005) and ENT involvement (P = 0.006) were associated with lower age-adjusted mental quality of life. Leg muscle strength showed no association with current or cumulative prednisolone use. Disease duration was longer in patients with knee extension force below healthy norms (P = 0.006).

Conclusion

Knee extension force and physical activity are positively associated with quality of life in AAV. Knee extension force decreases with longer disease duration, suggesting that disease- and treatment-related damage have a cumulative negative effect on muscle strength.

Thiopurine methyltransferase genotype and activity cannot predict outcomes of azathioprine maintenance therapy for antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody associated vasculitis: A retrospective cohort study

Objective

Azathioprine is a widely used immunosuppressive drug. Genetic polymorphisms and activity of the enzyme thiopurine methyltransferase (TPMT) have been associated with azathioprine efficacy and toxicity in several populations. We investigated whether these associations also exist for ANCA associated vasculitis (AAV) patients, who receive azathioprine maintenance therapy after remission induction with cyclophosphamide.

Methods

207 AAV patients treated with cyclophosphamide induction and azathioprine maintenance therapy were included and followed for 60 months. TPMT genotype and tertiles of TPMT activity were compared to relapse free survival and occurrence of adverse events, particularly leukopenia. Multivariable regression was performed to account for confounders.

Results

In univariable analysis, relapse free survival was not significantly associated with TPMT genotype (P = 0.41) or TPMT activity (P = 0.07), although it tended to be longer in lower tertiles of TPMT activity. There was no significant association of TPMT genotype and activity with occurrence of any adverse event. In multiple regression, leukocyte counts at the end of cyclophosphamide induction were related to risk of leukopenia during azathioprine therapy [P<0.001; OR 0.54 (95% CI 0.43–0.68)] and risk of relapse during follow-up [P = 0.001; HR 1.17 (95% CI 1.07–1.29)] irrespective of TMPT genotype or activity.

Conclusion

TPMT genotype and activity were not independent predictors of relapse, and could not predict leukopenia or other adverse effects from azathioprine. Leukocyte counts after cyclophosphamide induction were related to both outcomes, implying a greater influence of cyclophosphamide response compared to azathioprine and TPMT in AAV patients.

Long term azathioprine maintenance therapy in ANCA-associated vasculitis: combined results of long-term follow-up data

Objective

We studied whether in ANCA-associated vasculitis patients, duration of AZA maintenance influenced relapse rate during long-term follow-up.

Methods

Three hundred and eighty newly diagnosed ANCA-associated vasculitis patients from six European multicentre studies treated with AZA maintenance were included; 58% were male, median age at diagnosis 59.4 years (interquartile range: 48.3-68.2 years); granulomatosis with polyangiitis, n = 236; microscopic polyangiitis, n = 132; or renal limited vasculitis, n = 12. Patients were grouped according to the duration of AZA maintenance after remission induction: ⩽18 months, ⩽24 months, ⩽36 months, ⩽48 months or > 48 months. Primary outcome was relapse-free survival at 60 months.

Results

During follow-up, 84 first relapses occurred during AZA-maintenance therapy (1 relapse per 117 patient months) and 71 after withdrawal of AZA (1 relapse/113 months). During the first 12 months after withdrawal, 20 relapses occurred (1 relapse/119 months) and 29 relapses >12 months after withdrawal (1 relapse/186 months). Relapse-free survival at 60 months was 65.3% for patients receiving AZA maintenance >18 months after diagnosis vs 55% for those who discontinued maintenance ⩽18 months (P = 0.11). Relapse-free survival was associated with induction therapy (i.v. vs oral) and ANCA specificity (PR3-ANCA vs MPO-ANCA/negative).

Conclusion

Post hoc analysis of combined trial data suggest that stopping AZA maintenance therapy does not lead to a significant increase in relapse rate and AZA maintenance for more than 18 months after diagnosis does not significantly influence relapse-free survival. ANCA specificity has more effect on relapse-free survival than duration of maintenance therapy and should be used to tailor therapy individually.

How can we reduce costs of solid-phase multiplex-bead assays used to determine anti-HLA antibodies?

Solid-phase multiplex-bead assays are widely used in transplantation to detect anti-human leukocyte antigen (HLA) antibodies. These assays enable high resolution detection of low levels of HLA antibodies. However, multiplex-bead assays are costly and yield variable measurements that limit the comparison of results between laboratories. In the context of a Dutch national Consortium study we aimed to determine the inter-assay and inter-machine variability of multiplex-bead assays, and we assessed how to reduce the assay reagents costs. Fifteen sera containing a variety of HLA antibodies were used yielding in total 7092 median fluorescence intensities (MFI) values. The inter-assay and inter-machine mean absolute relative differences (MARD) of the screening assay were 12% and 13%, respectively. The single antigen bead (SAB) inter-assay MARD was comparable, but showed a higher lot-to-lot variability. Reduction of screening assay reagents to 50% or 40% of manufacturers' recommendations resulted in MFI values comparable to 100% of the reagents, with an MARD of 12% or 14%, respectively. The MARD of the 50% and 40% SAB assay reagent reductions were 11% and 22%, respectively. From this study, we conclude that the reagents can be reliably reduced at least to 50% of manufacturers' recommendations with virtually no differences in HLA antibody assignments.

Maintenance therapy in antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis: who needs what and for how long?

Anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic autoantibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitides (AAV) are severe chronic auto-immune diseases in which the small vessels are inflamed. Nowadays, in the majority of patients disease can be brought into remission with cyclophosphamide and corticosteroids. However, depending upon disease characteristics patients with AAV have a risk of 29-60% to experience relapses of disease within 5 years despite maintenance therapy after induction of remission with less toxic agents, such as azathioprine, methotrexate or mycophenolate mofetil. More recently, rituximab has been found effective in both induction and maintenance of remission in AAV. This review discusses the different aspects of maintenance therapy in AAV based on reported cohorts and studies, including the different agents, therapy duration, efficacy or lack thereof and future directions. Finally, recommendations are made who to treat and for how long.

Pathogenesis of antineutrophil cytoplasmic autoantibody-associated vasculitis and potential targets for biologic treatment

Antineutrophil cytoplasmic autoantibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitides (AAV) are autoimmune diseases in which the small vessels are inflamed. Clinical observations suggest a pathogenic role for ANCA. Such a role is supported by in vitro experimental data and animal models, particularly for myeloperoxidase-ANCA. An in vivo pathogenic role of ANCA directed to proteinase 3 has, however, not been fully substantiated. Additionally, the pathogenic role of B cells, T cells, and the alternative pathway of complement in AAV have been elucidated. Insight into these pathogenic pathways involved in AAV has opened and will further open new ways for targeted biologic treatment. In this review the pathogenesis of AAV and potential targets for biologic treatment are discussed.

The PROCARE consortium: toward an improved allocation strategy for kidney allografts

Kidney transplantation is the best treatment option for patients with end-stage renal failure. At present, approximately 800 Dutch patients are registered on the active waiting list of Eurotransplant. The waiting time in the Netherlands for a kidney from a deceased donor is on average between 3 and 4 years. During this period, patients are fully dependent on dialysis, which replaces only partly the renal function, whereas the quality of life is limited. Mortality among patients on the waiting list is high. In order to increase the number of kidney donors, several initiatives have been undertaken by the Dutch Kidney Foundation including national calls for donor registration and providing information on organ donation and kidney transplantation. The aim of the national PROCARE consortium is to develop improved matching algorithms that will lead to a prolonged survival of transplanted donor kidneys and a reduced HLA immunization. The latter will positively affect the waiting time for a retransplantation. The present algorithm for allocation is among others based on matching for HLA antigens, which were originally defined by antibodies using serological typing techniques. However, several studies suggest that this algorithm needs adaptation and that other immune parameters which are currently not included may assist in improving graft survival rates. We will employ a multicenter-based evaluation on 5429 patients transplanted between 1995 and 2005 in the Netherlands. The association between key clinical endpoints and selected laboratory defined parameters will be examined, including Luminex-defined HLA antibody specificities, T and B cell epitopes recognized on the mismatched HLA antigens, non-HLA antibodies, and also polymorphisms in complement and Fc receptors functionally associated with effector functions of anti-graft antibodies. From these data, key parameters determining the success of kidney transplantation will be identified which will lead to the identification of additional parameters to be included in future matching algorithms aiming to extend survival of transplanted kidneys and to diminish HLA immunization. Computer simulation studies will reveal the number of patients having a direct benefit from improved matching, the effect on shortening of the waiting list, and the decrease in waiting time.

Characterization of urinary CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ T cells in kidney transplantation patients with polyomavirus BK infection and allograft rejection

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

The objective of this study was to characterize CD4(+) and CD8(+) T-cell populations in blood and urine of renal transplant patients with BK virus (BKV) infection or allograft rejection.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Percentages and absolute numbers of CD4(+) and CD8(+) effector memory T-cell subtype (TEM ) and terminal differentiated T cells (TTD ) in renal transplant patients with BKV infection (n = 14), with an episode of allograft rejection (n = 9), and in uncomplicated renal transplant patients with a stable kidney function (n = 12) were measured and compared using 4-color fluorescence-activated cell sorting. Results were correlated with the number of CD4(+) and CD8(+) T cells in renal biopsies.

RESULTS

In patients with allograft rejection, the number of urinary CD4(+) TEM and CD8(+) TEM cells was significantly increased compared to patients with BKV infection or patients without complications. Positive correlation was found between the number of CD4(+) and CD8(+) cells in the renal biopsies and the number of CD4(+) and CD8(+) cells in urine. In patients with rejection, after 2 months of immunosuppressive therapy, a reduction in urinary CD8(+) TEM cells was found.

CONCLUSIONS

CD4(+) TEM and CD8(+) TEM cells in urine could be a marker to distinguish allograft rejection from BKV-associated nephropathy and to monitor therapy effectiveness in renal transplant patients with allograft rejection.

Performance of two strategies for urgent ANCA and anti-GBM analysis in vasculitis

BACKGROUND

In anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA) associated small vessel vasculitis (AAV), rapid testing for ANCA and anti-glomerular basement membrane (GBM) antibodies may be beneficial for therapeutic purpose.

OBJECTIVE

We analysed the diagnostic performance of two rapid ANCA and anti-GBM test methods in 260 patients with suspected AAV.

METHODS

Between January 2004 and November 2010, we analysed 260 samples by qualitative Dotblot (Biomedical Diagnostics); retrospective analysis followed with directly coated highly sensitive automated Phadia ELiA and ELiA anti-GBM. Results were related to the final clinical diagnosis and compared with routine capture ELISA.

RESULTS

Seventy-four patients had a final diagnosis of AAV (n=62) or anti-GBM disease (n=12). Both Dotblot and ELiA detected all 12 cases of anti-GBM disease; 2 false positive results were found. Dotblot detected ANCA in 56 of 62 AAV patients (sensitivity 90%, NPV 97%), and showed 5 false positives (specificity 97%, PPV 90%). The Phadia ELiA anti-PR3(s) or anti-MPO(s) was positive in 57 of 62 AAV patients (sensitivity 92%, NPV 97%), and had 5 false positives (specificity 97%, PPV 88%). Routine capture ELISA was equally accurate (sensitivity 94%, specificity 97%, PPV 88%, NPV 98%).

CONCLUSION

The Dotblot and Phadia ELiA on anti-GBM, anti-PR3(s) and anti-MPO(s) performed excellently; results were almost identical to routine ELISA. When suspicion of AAV or anti-GBM disease is high and diagnosis is urgently needed, both tests are very powerful for rapid serological diagnosis. Further studies have to confirm the test performances in samples routinely presented for ANCA testing and in follow-up of positive patients.

Human herpesvirus-6 DNAemia is a sign of impending primary CMV infection in CMV sero-discordant renal transplantations

BACKGROUND

Human herpesvirus-6 (HHV-6) frequently reactivates in immunocompromized individuals. Most commonly HHV-6 DNA is detected without organ localized disease. This HHV-6 DNAemia usually occurs in patients who also have CMV reactivations. The question if reactivation of one virus causes reactivation of the other, or whether both viruses reactivate independently, cannot be answered in populations with high seroprevalence for both viruses. Our study is the first in which 35 patients have been included who were CMV seronegative prior to transplantation.

OBJECTIVE

We investigated the occurrence of HHV-6 reactivations in relation to the CMV-serostatus of renal transplantation donor and recipient.

STUDY DESIGN

9 consecutive patients receiving a renal transplantation were included. All available stored whole blood samples were tested for HHV-6 DNA by quantitative PCR. Details including CMV serostatus of donor and recipient were recorded.

RESULTS

CMV-seropositive recipients have a 68% chance of developing HHV-6 DNAemia if the kidney came from a CMV-seropositive donor, compared to 26% if the kidney came from a CMV-seronegative donor. CMV-seronegative recipients, who are bound to undergo primary CMV infections following transplantation with a renal graft from a CMV-seropositive donor, have 88% chance of developing HHV-6 DNAemia. If they receive a graft from a CMV-seronegative donor the chance of developing HHV-6 DNAemia is 22%.

CONCLUSION

Receiving a renal transplant from a CMV-seropositive donor increases the chance of developing HHV-6 DNAemia. HHV-6 DNAemia is a sign of impending primary CMV infections following sero-discordant renal transplantations.

Renal survival in proteinase 3 and myeloperoxidase ANCA-associated systemic vasculitis

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

This study evaluated predictors for patient and renal survival in patients with ANCA-associated vasculitis (AAV) with and without renal involvement.

DESIGN, SETTING, PARTICIPANTS, & MEASUREMENTS

There were 273 consecutive AAV patients from January 1990 until December 2007 who were followed until death, loss to follow-up, or December 2010. Based on organ involvement, patients were divided into renal (n=212) and nonrenal groups (n=61). The primary end point was ESRD requiring renal replacement therapy (RRT) or renal transplantation or death.

RESULTS

Patient survival was significantly better in the nonrenal group compared with the renal group (hazard ratio, 0.55; 95% confidence interval, 0.33 to 0.92; P=0.02). In the renal group, renal survival was significantly worse in MPO-ANCA-positive patients (n=65) compared with PR3-ANCA-positive patients (n=138) (hazard ratio, 2.1; 95% confidence interval, 1.11 to 3.8; P=0.01). Of 48 patients who needed RRT at diagnosis, 11 patients (23%) died within 6 months and 14 patients (29%) did not regain renal function. Of all 23 patients who regained renal function after RRT, 7 patients (30%) were temporarily dialysis independent and needed dialysis later (range, 13-63 months). Five patients had a renal relapse in the 6 months before restart of RRT. Of all 203 PR3-ANCA-positive and MPO-ANCA-positive patients with renal involvement, 12 patients (6%) developed ESRD during follow-up. These patients were classified as CKD stage 4 or 5 after initial treatment and eight patients had a renal relapse before becoming dialysis dependent.

CONCLUSIONS

AAV patients with renal involvement who needed RRT had the worst survival probability. In multivariate analysis, the only major determinants for long-term renal survival were renal function at 6 months and renal relapses.

Pregnancy in women diagnosed with antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis: outcome for the mother and the child

OBJECTIVE

Antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis (AAV) is infrequently seen in women of childbearing age. Only a limited number of pregnancies in women with AAV have been reported, and often they were associated with complications.

METHODS

This was a single-center retrospective observational study. All pregnancies in women with granulomatosis with polyangiitis (Wegener's) (n = 13) and microscopic polyangiitis (n = 1) were included. Women of childbearing age were counseled to abstain from pregnancy during or shortly after disease activity or <1 year after cyclophosphamide treatment.

RESULTS

We described 22 pregnancies in 14 women with AAV (median age at diagnosis was 25 years [range 19-36 years]) diagnosed between 1982-2008. The ear, nose, and throat region (71%) and kidneys (50%) were predominantly involved. All women were in remission at conception and cyclophosphamide had been administered to 9 women (15 pregnancies). The median gestational age was 39+4 weeks, including 2 preterm deliveries. The median birth weight was 3,400 gm (1,860-3,890 gm). Hypothyroidism occurred in 1 newborn and a cleft palate in 1 newborn of a twin pregnancy. Otherwise, the fetal outcome was excellent. Preeclampsia was diagnosed in 2 pregnancies. A caesarean section was performed in 2 patients. The median followup after the last conception was 98 months (range 11-307 months). Eight women experienced a relapse 21 months (range 7-62 months) after conception, 1 during pregnancy, and 7 after delivery.

CONCLUSION

In this study, the pregnancy outcome in patients with AAV in remission was excellent. Pregnancy in women with AAV in remission does not seem to be associated with increased risk of relapse. Counseling, careful management, and close followup are essential in pregnant women with AAV.

The Th1 and Th2 paradigm in ANCA-associated vasculitis

In the pathogenesis of anti-neutrophil cytoplasm antibodies (ANCA)-associated vasculitis, T cell contribution is indicated by T cell-dependent ANCA production combined with the presence of T cells in inflammatory infiltrates. However, the exact pathogenic role of T cells in ANCA-associated vasculitis remains to be determined. The Th1/Th2 concept is useful for understanding T cell involvement in pathological processes. This review focuses on T cells and particularly the Th1/Th2 paradigm in ANCA-associated vasculitis. Most research has been done in Wegener's granulomatosis, where a shift in T cell response, from a Th1 pattern in localized disease towards a Th0/Th2 pattern in generalized disease, appears to occur. Although less thoroughly studied, data in Churg-Strauss syndrome and microscopic polyangiitis indicate that these diseases are predominantly associated with Th2 patterns. Further studies elucidating the true nature of the polarization towards Th1 or Th2 in ANCA-associated vasculitis are clearly needed.

Risk factors for relapse in anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis: tools for treatment decisions?

Current treatment based on the use of cyclophosphamide and corticosteroids has changed anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitides from highly fatal into more chronic relapsing diseases. Relapses are a major problem in these diseases and cause increased morbidity and mortality. Current clinical research mainly focuses on achieving control of active disease while minimizing treatment-related toxicity. Risks for longterm relapse and their sequelae have been less thoroughly studied. It is noteworthy that, besides treatment, several other factors have been associated with the occurrence of relapses. Thus, compared to MPO-ANCA positive patients, patients with PR3-ANCA associated vasculitis run a significantly increased risk of experiencing relapses. ANCA-status during follow-up, levels of T cell activation, genetic background, and infectious and other exogenous factors have been linked to relapse as well. With a few exceptions, these associations are merely descriptive and not pathophysiologically proven. Furthermore, data on adapting treatment in accordance with risk factors for relapse are scarce. We review here the risk factors for relapse in ANCA-associated vasculitis, their potential pathogenic implications, and their possible role in preventive strategies and adaptations of current treatment policies.