Lung function in Birt-Hogg-Dubé syndrome: a retrospective analysis of 96 patients

Background

Birt-Hogg-Dubé syndrome (BHD) is a rare autosomal dominant disorder caused by mutations in the FLCN gene coding for folliculin. Its clinical expression includes cutaneous fibrofolliculomas, renal tumors, multiple pulmonary cysts, and recurrent spontaneous pneumothoraces. Data on lung function in BHD are scarce and it is not known whether lung function declines over time. We retrospectively assessed lung function at baseline and during follow-up in 96 patients with BHD.

Results

Ninety-five percent of BHD patients had multiple pulmonary cysts on computed tomography and 59% had experienced at least one pneumothorax. Mean values of forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV₁), forced vital capacity (FVC), FEV₁/FVC ratio, and total lung capacity were normal at baseline. Mean (standard deviation) residual volume (RV) was moderately increased to 116 (36) %pred at baseline, and RV was elevated > 120%pred in 41% of cases. Mean (standard deviation) carbon monoxide transfer factor (DLco) was moderately decreased to 85 (18) %pred at baseline, and DLco was decreased < 80%pred in 33% of cases. When adjusted for age, gender, smoking and history of pleurodesis, lung function parameters did not significantly decline over a follow-up period of 6 years.

Conclusions

Cystic lung disease in BHD does not affect respiratory function at baseline except for slightly increased RV and reduced DLco. No significant deterioration of lung function occurs in BHD over a follow-up period of 6 years.

Air travel and incidence of pneumothorax in lymphangioleiomyomatosis

BACKGROUND

Pulmonary lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM) is a rare disease of women characterized by multiple lung cysts leading to respiratory insufficiency and frequent pneumothorax (PT). Air travel (AT) could increase the risk of PT in LAM through rupture of subpleural cysts induced by atmospheric pressure changes in aircraft cabin. To determine whether AT increases the risk of PT in LAM, we performed a retrospective survey of members of European LAM patient associations. A flight-related PT was defined as occurring ≤30 days after AT.

RESULTS

145 women reported 207 PT. In 128 patients with available data, the annual incidence of PT was 8% since the first symptoms of LAM and 5% since LAM diagnosis, compared to 0.006% in the general female population. Following surgical or chemical pleurodesis, the probability of remaining free of PT recurrence was respectively 82, 68, and 59% after 1, 5 and 10 years, as compared to only 55, 46 and 39% without pleurodesis (p = 0.026). 70 patients with available data performed 178 AT. 6 flight-related PT occurred in 5 patients. PT incidence since first symptoms of LAM was significantly higher ≤30 days after AT as compared to non-flight periods (22 versus 6%, risk ratio 3.58, confidence interval 1.40-7.45).

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of PT in LAM is about 1000 times higher than in the general female population, and is further increased threefold after AT. Chemical or surgical pleurodesis partly reduces the risk of PT recurrence in LAM.

Combined pulmonary fibrosis and emphysema in systemic sclerosis: A syndrome associated with heavy morbidity and mortality

BACKGROUND

The syndrome of combined pulmonary fibrosis and emphysema (CPFE) primarily due to tobacco smoking has been reported in connective tissue disease, but little is known about its characteristics in systemic sclerosis (SSc).

METHODS

In this retrospective multi-center case-control study, we identified 36 SSc patients with CPFE, and compared them with 72 SSc controls with interstitial lung disease (ILD) without emphysema.

RESULTS

Rate of CPFE in SSc patients with CT scan was 3.6%, and 7.6% among SSc patients with ILD. CPFE-SSc patients were more likely to be male (75 % vs 18%, p < 0.0001), smokers (83 % vs 33%, p < 0.0001), and to have limited cutaneous SSc (53 % vs 24% p < 0.01) than ILD-SSc controls. No specific autoantibody was significantly associated with CPFE. At diagnosis, CPFE-SSc patients had a greater decrease in carbon monoxide diffusing capacity (DLCO 39 ± 13 % vs 51 ± 12% of predicted value, p < 0.0001) when compared to SSc-ILD controls, whereas lung volumes (total lung capacity and forced vital capacity) were similar. During follow-up, CPFE-SSc patients more frequently developed precapillary pulmonary hypertension (PH) (44 % vs 11%, p < 10^-4), experienced more frequent unscheduled hospitalizations (50 % vs 25%, p < 0.01), and had decreased survival (p < 0.02 by Kaplan-Meier survival analysis) as compared to ILD-SSc controls.

CONCLUSIONS

The CPFE syndrome is a distinct pulmonary manifestation in SSc, with higher morbidity and mortality. Early diagnosis of CPFE by chest CT in SSc patients (especially smokers) may result in earlier smoking cessation, screening for PH, and appropriate management.

Diffuse bronchiectasis and airflow obstruction in granulomatosis with polyangiitis

Parenchymal lung nodes and diffuse intra-alveolar hemorrhage are the archetypal pulmonary manifestations of Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (GPA). The occurrence of diffuse bronchiectasis and airflow obstruction during GPA is unusual. We report here 3 patients with GPA who developed diffuse bronchiectasis during follow-up. The airflow obstruction seemed then to evolve independently from the GPA itself and ultimately led to respiratory insufficiency. Bronchiectases promoted the occurrence of opportunistic infections, especially with atypical mycobacteria. (Sarcoidosis Vasc Diffuse Lung Dis 2018; 35: 81-84).

A 12-week combination of clarithromycin and prednisone compared to a 24-week prednisone alone treatment in cryptogenic and radiation-induced organizing pneumonia

Background: Some data suggest that anti-inflammatory macrolides may be effective to treat organizing pneumonia (OP) and prevent relapses, but no formal comparison with prednisone alone is available. To explore this issue, we retrospectively compared the efficacy of a 12-week combined regimen of clarithromycin and prednisone with a 24-week prednisone alone regimen in OP. Methods: A standard 12-week regimen of combined clarithromycin and prednisone was designed for the treatment of cryptogenic or radiation-induced OP, aiming at reducing the cumulated prednisone dose and the relapse rate. Its use was left to the discretion of the treating physicians, members of the Groupe d'Etudes et de Recherche sur les Maladies Orphelines Pulmonaires. Data were compared to a historical control group treated with a standard 24-week prednisone alone regimen. Results: 16 patients were treated with combined therapy and 21 with prednisone alone. Complete radiological remission was achieved in 63% of the combined therapy group and 81% of the prednisone alone group (p=0.38). Symptomatic relapses occurred in 81% of the combined therapy group, and 52% of the prednisone alone group (p=0.14). No side effect of clarithromycin was reported. Conclusions: In patients with cryptogenic or radiation-induced OP, a 12-week regimen of clarithromycin and prednisone showed no benefit on remission rate and relapse rate as compared to a 24-week prednisone only regimen. (Sarcoidosis Vasc Diffuse Lung Dis 2018; 35: 230-238).

Prevalence and characteristics of TERT and TERC mutations in suspected genetic pulmonary fibrosis

Telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) or telomerase RNA (TERC) gene mutation is a major monogenic cause of pulmonary fibrosis. Sequencing of TERT/TERC genes is proposed to patients with familial pulmonary fibrosis. Little is known about the possible predictors of this mutation and its impact on prognosis.We retrospectively analysed all the genetic diagnoses made between 2007-2014 in patients with pulmonary fibrosis. We evaluated the prevalence of TERT/TERC disease-associated variant (DAV), factors associated with a DAV, and the impact of the DAV on survival.237 patients with pulmonary fibrosis (153 with familial pulmonary fibrosis, 84 with telomere syndrome features without familial pulmonary fibrosis) were tested for TERT/TERC DAV. DAV was diagnosed in 40 patients (16.8%), including five with non-idiopathic interstitial pneumonia. Prevalence of TERT/TERC DAV did not significantly differ between patients with familial pulmonary fibrosis or with only telomere syndrome features (18.2% versus 16.4%). Young age, red blood cell macrocytosis, and low platelet count were associated with the presence of DAV; the probability of DAV was increased for patients 40-60 years. Transplant-free survival was lower with than without TERT/TERC DAV (4.2 versus 7.2 years; p=0.046).TERT/TERC DAV were associated with specific clinical and biological features and reduced transplant-free survival.

Respiratory manifestations of eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (Churg–Strauss)

The respiratory manifestations of eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA) have not been studied in detail.

In this retrospective multicentre study, EGPA was defined by asthma, eosinophilia and at least one new onset extra-bronchopulmonary organ manifestation of disease.

The study population included 157 patients (mean±sd age 49.4±14.1 years), with a mean±sd blood eosinophil count of 7.4±6.4×109 L−1 at diagnosis. There was a mean±sd of 11.8±18.2 years from the onset of asthma to the diagnosis of EGPA, of 1.4±8.4 years from the first onset of peripheral eosinophilia to the diagnosis of EGPA, and of 7.4±6.4 years from EGPA diagnosis to the final visit. Despite inhaled and oral corticosteroid treatment, the severity of asthma increased 3–6 months before the onset of the systemic manifestations. Asthma was severe in 57%, 48%, and 56% of patients at diagnosis, at 3 years, and at the final visit, respectively. Persistent airflow obstruction was present in 38%, 30%, and 46% at diagnosis, at 3 years, and at the final visit, respectively.

In EGPA, asthma is severe, antedates systemic manifestations by a mean of 12 years, and progresses to long-term persistent airflow obstruction despite corticosteroids in a large proportion of patients, which affects long-term management and morbidity.

Many Faces of Bronchiolitis and Organizing Pneumonia

As the bronchioles have a strategic position between the airways and the alveolar structures, they are at a site where disorders of many origins may develop, including infections, inflammatory and/or fibrosing processes of immune, occupational, environmental, tumoral, and iatrogenic origin, which may result in predominant bronchiolitis and/or organizing pneumonia. This etiologic variety results in many distinct entities and syndromes, common or rare, with new or renewed faces such as bronchiolocentric interstitial pneumonia or organizing pneumonia primed by radiation to the breast.

Severe Prolonged Cough as Presenting Manifestation of FIP1L1-PDGFRA+ Chronic Eosinophilic Leukaemia: A Widely Ignored Association

Chronic eosinophilic leukaemia associated with the FIP1L1-PDGFRA fusion gene (F/P+ CEL) is a rare cause of marked persistent hypereosinophilia, arising almost exclusively in male patients. Clinical presentations are heterogeneous with a higher incidence of eosinophil-mediated cardiomyopathy than in other hypereosinophilic syndrome variants. Features of chronic myeloproliferative disease are often present, including splenomegaly and elevated serum vitamin B12 levels. The diagnosis is made by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) showing the deletion of the CHIC2 locus and/or RT-PCR showing the FIP1L1-PDGFRA fusion transcript. Treatment with imatinib mesylate, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor, results in rapid and complete resolution of hypereosinophilia and associated symptoms, except for those related to sub-endocardial fibrosis that may be irreversible. We report the case of a male patient in whom isolated intractable cough remained the only clinical manifestation of F/P+ CEL for 4 years. Furthermore, eosinophil autofluorescence, an as yet unreported artefact in this setting, precluded the detection of the CHIC2 deletion and further delayed diagnosis, underlining that both FISH and RT-PCR should be performed when this disease is suspected.

Primary cardiac lymphoma: diagnosis, treatment and outcome in a modern series

Primary cardiac lymphoma (PCL) represents a rare subset of extranodal lymphomas for which the primary lesion arises from the heart and/or the pericardium. Fundamental characteristics of PCL remain uncertain, regarding optimal diagnosis strategy, pathological features, treatments, as well as prognostic factors. This is a single-institution retrospective study of patients with histologically proven lymphoma, presenting with exclusive or predominant myocardial invasion at time of diagnosis. Thirteen patients were included, all of whom had symptoms related to cardiac tumour location with chronic chest pain in six (46%), dyspnea in seven (54%) and arythmia in three (23%). Sub-acute and acute congestive heart failure were noticed in respectively nine (70%) and one (9%). PCL was identified at transthoracic echocardiography and computed tomography scan in 80 and 100% of patients, respectively. Most frequent location was the right atrium in 10 (77%) patients. Pericardial effusion was identified in 10 (77%). Pathological diagnosis-diffuse large B-cell lymphoma in 12 cases and Burkitt in 1 case-was made on cardiac surgical biopsies in 9 cases and by intravascular procedure in 2 cases. All patients received first-line chemotherapy, with a complete response rate of 62%. Recurrences occurred in 55% of patients, mostly at extracardiac extranodal sites. Our data confirm that PCL harbours specific clinical and anatomical features. The aggressiveness of PCL mainly results from the possible onset of acute cardiac events. Further molecular characterization may help to further individualize PCL among diffuse and intrathoracic lymphomas. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Connective tissue diseases, multimorbidity and the ageing lung

Connective tissue diseases encompass a wide range of heterogeneous disorders characterised by immune-mediated chronic inflammation often leading to tissue damage, collagen deposition and possible loss of function of the target organ. Lung involvement is a common complication of connective tissue diseases. Depending on the underlying disease, various thoracic compartments can be involved but interstitial lung disease is a major contributor to morbidity and mortality. Interstitial lung disease, pulmonary hypertension or both are found most commonly in systemic sclerosis. In the elderly, the prevalence of connective tissue diseases continues to rise due to both longer life expectancy and more effective and better-tolerated treatments. In the geriatric population, connective tissue diseases are almost invariably accompanied by age-related comorbidities, and disease- and treatment-related complications, which contribute to the significant morbidity and mortality associated with these conditions, and complicate treatment decision-making. Connective tissue diseases in the elderly represent a growing concern for healthcare providers and an increasing burden of global health resources worldwide. A better understanding of the mechanisms involved in the regulation of the immune functions in the elderly and evidence-based guidelines specifically designed for this patient population are instrumental to improving the management of connective tissue diseases in elderly patients.

[Pulmonary lymphangioleiomyomatosis: From pathogenesis to management]

INTRODUCTION

Pulmonary lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM) is a rare disease affecting mainly young women.

BACKGROUND

The respiratory manifestations are characterized by a progressive cystic destruction of the lung parenchyma. Extrapulmonary involvement includes benign renal tumours called angiomyolipomas and abdominal lymphatic masses called lymphangioleiomyomas. At the pathological level, the cellular proliferation found in LAM is in part due to the presence of mutations in the tumour suppressor genes TSC1 and TSC2 (Tuberous Sclerosis Complex). These mutations lead to the activation of the mTOR pathway, which is currently the main therapeutic target. mTOR inhibitors such as sirolimus or everolimus have shown a beneficial effect on the decline in pulmonary function and a reduction of angiomyolipoma size, but are necessary in only some patients.

PERSPECTIVES

LAM cells have migratory properties mediated by the formation of new lymphatic vessels. They are also able to secrete metalloproteases, which enhance their invasiveness. Moreover, the expression of estrogen and progesterone receptors by LAM cells suggests a possible role for sex hormones in the pathogenesis of the disease.

CONCLUSION

A better understanding of mTOR-independent mechanisms would allow the development of novel therapeutic approaches.

Adherence to guidelines in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis: a follow-up national survey

A new survey coordinated by the French expert centres for rare pulmonary diseases investigated French pulmonologists' diagnostic and therapeutic practice for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and explored changes since a previous survey in 2011-2012. From May 16 to August 30, 2014, 524 pulmonologists were contacted. Those following at least one patient with IPF were invited to complete a questionnaire administered by telephone or e-mail. 166 (31.7%) pulmonologists, 161 (97%) of whom had participated to the first survey, completed the questionnaire. Of those, 46% and 52%, respectively, discussed the cases with radiologists and pathologists. Out of 144 pulmonologists practicing outside of expert centres, 80% indicated referring patients to those centres. The 2013 French practical guidelines for IPF were known by 92% of pulmonologists involved in IPF, 96% of whom considered them appropriate for practice. The multidisciplinary discussion form for IPF diagnosis was known by 74% and considered appropriate by 94%. Diagnosis and management resulted from multidisciplinary discussion in 50% of the cases. About 58% of patients were diagnosed with "mild to moderate IPF" as defined by forced vital capacity ≥50% of the predicted value and diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide ≥35% of predicted. At the time of the survey, 31% of physicians were using pirfenidone to treat patients with "mild-to-moderately severe IPF" and 30% generally prescribed no treatment. Substantial improvement has occurred since the 2011-2012 survey with regard to knowledge of guidelines and proper management of IPF. Early diagnosis still needs to be improved through the network of expert centres.

Eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (Churg-Strauss) (EGPA) Consensus Task Force recommendations for evaluation and management

OBJECTIVE

To develop disease-specific recommendations for the diagnosis and management of eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (Churg-Strauss syndrome) (EGPA).

METHODS

The EGPA Consensus Task Force experts comprised 8 pulmonologists, 6 internists, 4 rheumatologists, 3 nephrologists, 1 pathologist and 1 allergist from 5 European countries and the USA. Using a modified Delphi process, a list of 40 questions was elaborated by 2 members and sent to all participants prior to the meeting. Concurrently, an extensive literature search was undertaken with publications assigned with a level of evidence according to accepted criteria. Drafts of the recommendations were circulated for review to all members until final consensus was reached.

RESULTS

Twenty-two recommendations concerning the diagnosis, initial evaluation, treatment and monitoring of EGPA patients were established. The relevant published information on EGPA, antineutrophil-cytoplasm antibody-associated vasculitides, hypereosinophilic syndromes and eosinophilic asthma supporting these recommendations was also reviewed.

DISCUSSION

These recommendations aim to give physicians tools for effective and individual management of EGPA patients, and to provide guidance for further targeted research.

A prospective study of the 6 min walk test as a surrogate marker for haemodynamics in two independent cohorts of treatment-naïve systemic sclerosis-associated pulmonary arterial hypertension

OBJECTIVES

Despite the wide use of the 6 min walk distance (6MWD), no study has ever assessed its validity as a surrogate marker for haemodynamics and predictor of outcome in isolated pulmonary arterial hypertension associated with systemic sclerosis (SSc-PAH). We designed this work to address this issue.

METHODS

Treatment-naïve patients with SSc-PAH were prospectively included from two sources: the French PAH Network (a prospective epidemiological cohort) (n=83) and randomised clinical trials submitted for drug approval (Food and Drug Administration) (n=332). Correlations between absolute values of the 6MWD and haemodynamics at baseline, as well as between variations of 6MWD and haemodynamics during follow-up, were studied in both populations.

RESULTS

In the French cohort, baseline cardiac output (CO) (R(2)=0.19, p=0.001) and New York Heart Association class (R(2)=0.10, p<0.001) were significantly and independently correlated with baseline 6MWD in multivariate analysis. A significant, independent, but weaker, correlation with CO was also found in the Food and Drug Administration sample (R(2)=0.04, p<0.001). During follow-up, there was no association between the changes in 6MWD and haemodynamic parameters in patients under PAH-specific treatments.

CONCLUSIONS

In SSc-PAH, CO independently correlates with 6MWD at baseline, but accounts for a small amount of the variance of 6MWD in both study samples. This suggests that other non-haemodynamic factors could have an impact on the walk distance. Moreover, variations of 6MWD do not reflect changes in haemodynamics among treated patients. Our results suggest that 6MWD is not an accurate surrogate marker for haemodynamic severity, nor an appropriate outcome measure to assess changes in haemodynamics during follow-up in treated SSc-PAH.

Tracheobronchial Stenoses in Granulomatosis With Polyangiitis (Wegener's): A Report on 26 Cases

Tracheobronchial stenoses (TBSs) are potentially severe manifestations of granulomatosis with polyangiitis (Wegener's) (GPA) that usually respond poorly to corticosteroids and immunosuppressive agents. We describe 26 GPA patients with ≥1 tracheal (mainly subglottic, SGS) and/or bronchial stenosis(ses) (BS(s)).Sixteen patients had solitary SGS and 10 had ≥1 BS(s). The male/female sex ratio was 9:17, and the median age at GPA diagnosis was 32 years (3:13 and 28 years, respectively, for SGS patients). Antineutrophil cytoplasm antibodies were proteinase 3-positive in 65.5% of the patients (50% of those with SGS).Despite conventional GPA therapy, 62% patients experienced ≥1 stenosis relapse(s) (81% of SGS patients, for a total of 1-8 relapses per patient). None of the several systemic or endoscopic treatments prevented future relapses. Cyclophosphamide induction therapy was effective in 4/6 patients with BS(s) and in 1 patient with SGS among the 7 treated. After many relapses, rituximab achieved remission in 3/4 SGS patients. Endoscopic treatments (dilation, laser, corticosteroid injection, etc.) had only transient efficacy. Other GPA manifestations relapsed independently of TBSs. One SGS patient died of acute respiratory distress syndrome.Our findings confirmed that TBSs are severe GPA manifestations that evolve independently of other organ involvements and do not respond to conventional systemic regimens. As previously described, our population was younger and comprised more females than usual GPA patients, especially those with SGS.The small number of patients and the wide variety of local and systemic treatments prevent us from drawing definitive conclusions about the contribution of each procedure. However, cyclophosphamide seemed to effectively treat BSs, but not SGS, and rituximab may be of interest for SGS management.

Inflammatory bowel diseases in anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitides: 11 retrospective cases from the French Vasculitis Study Group

OBJECTIVE

Coexistence of ANCA-associated vasculitis (AAV) and IBD is a rare condition that is rarely described in the literature. The aim of the study was to describe the main characteristics of patients presenting with both IBD and AAV.

METHODS

A retrospective study of AAV patients in the French Vasculitis Study Group cohort who also had a diagnosis of IBD was conducted. We reviewed the medical records and outcomes of these patients.

RESULTS

We identified 11 patients with AAV and IBD. Four patients with eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (Churg-Strauss) also had ulcerative colitis and seven patients with granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) had Crohn's disease. No Crohn's disease was observed in eosinophilic GPA and no ulcerative colitis in GPA. IBD started before AAV manifestations in six cases, simultaneously in two cases and after AAV manifestations in three cases.

CONCLUSION

Coexistence of IBD and AAV is a rare condition. The therapeutic management of these patients includes corticosteroids in all cases and immunosuppressive drugs in some patients. Coexistence of IBD and AAV might be explained by common underlying inflammatory responses and cytokine profiles polarized towards either Th1 or Th2. Finally, in the presence of digestive manifestations in the context of AAV, the hypothesis of IBD should be assessed.

Usual interstitial pneumonia end-stage features from explants with radiologic and pathological correlations

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is the most frequent and severe idiopathic interstitial pneumonia, with typical high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) features and histologic pattern of usual interstitial pneumonia (UIP); its main differential diagnosis is fibrotic nonspecific interstitial pneumonia (F-NSIP). Usual interstitial pneumonia was mainly described from lung biopsies, and little is known on explants. Twenty-two UIP/IPF explants were analyzed histologically and compared with previous open lung biopsies (OLBs; n = 11) and HRCT (n = 19), when available. Temporospatial heterogeneity and subpleural and paraseptal fibrosis were similarly found in UIP/IPF explants and OLB (91%-95%). Fibroblastic foci were found in 82% of OLBs and 100% of explants, with a higher mean score in explants (P = .023). Honeycombing was present in 64% of OLBs and 95% of explants, with a higher mean score in explants (P = .005). Almost 60% of UIP/IPF explants showed NSIP areas and 41% peribronchiolar fibrosis; inflammation, bronchiolar metaplasia, and vascular changes were more frequent in UIP/IPF explants; and Desquamative Interstitial Pneumonia (DIP)-like areas were not common (18%-27%). Numerous large airspace enlargements with fibrosis were frequent in UIP/IPF explants (59%). On HRCT, honeycombing was observed in 95% of the cases and ground-glass opacities in 53%, correlating with NSIP areas or acute exacerbation at histology. Six patients had combined IPF and emphysema. Lesions were more severe in UIP/IPF explants, reflecting the worsening of the disease. Usual interstitial pneumonia/IPF explants more frequently presented with confounding lesions such as NSIP areas, peribronchiolar fibrosis, and airspace enlargements with fibrosis sometimes associated with emphysema.

Diagnosis and management of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis: French practical guidelines

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is the most frequent chronic idiopathic interstitial pneumonia in adults. The management of rare diseases in France has been organised by a national plan for rare diseases, which endorsed a network of expert centres for rare diseases throughout France. This article is an overview of the executive summary of the French guidelines for the management of IPF, an initiative that emanated from the French National Reference Centre and the Network of Regional Competence Centres for Rare Lung Diseases. This review aims at providing pulmonologists with a document that: 1) combines the current available evidence; 2) reviews practical modalities of diagnosis and management of IPF; and 3) is adapted to everyday medical practice. The French practical guidelines result from the combined efforts of a coordination committee, a writing committee and a multidisciplinary review panel, following recommendations from the Haute Autorité de Santé. All recommendations included in this article received at least 90% agreement by the reviewing panel. Herein, we summarise the main conclusions and practical recommendations of the French guidelines.

Eosinophilic Pneumonia

Eosinophilic pneumonia may manifest as chronic or transient infiltrates with mild symptoms, chronic idiopathic eosinophilic pneumonia, or the frequently severe acute eosinophilic pneumonia that may be secondary to a variety of causes (drug intake, new onset of tobacco smoking, infection) and that may necessitate mechanical ventilation. When present, blood eosinophilia greater than 1 × 10⁹ eosinophils/L (and preferably greater than 1.5 × 10⁹/L) is of considerable help for suggesting the diagnosis, however it may be absent, as in the early phase of idiopathic acute eosinophilic pneumonia or when patients are already taking corticosteroids. On bronchoalveolar lavage, high eosinophilia (>25 %, and preferably >40 % of differential cell count) is considered diagnostic of eosinophilic pneumonia in a compatible setting, obviating the need of video-assisted thoracic surgical lung biopsy, which is now performed only on very rare occasions with inconsistency between clinical, biological, and imaging features. Inquiry as to drug intake must be meticulous (www.pneumotox.com) and any suspected drug should be withdrawn. Laboratory investigations for parasitic causes must take into account the travel history or residence and the epidemiology of parasites. In patients with associated extrathoracic manifestations, the diagnosis of eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis or of the hypereosinophilic syndromes should be raised. Presence of airflow obstruction can be found in hypereosinophilic asthma, allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis, idiopathic chronic eosinophilic pneumonia, eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis, or in the recently identified syndrome of hyperosinophilic obliterative bronchiolitis. Corticosteroids remain the cornerstone of symptomatic treatment for eosinophilic pneumonias, with a generally dramatic response. Relapses are common when tapering the doses or after stopping treatment especially in idiopathic chronic eosinophilic pneumonia. Cyclophosphamide is necessary only in patients with eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis and poor-prognostic factors. Imatinib is very effective in the treatment of the myeloproliferative variant of hypereosinophilic syndromes. Anti-interleukin-5 monoclonal antibodies are promising in the spectrum of eosinophilic disorders.

Prognostic value of right ventricular ejection fraction in pulmonary arterial hypertension

Right ventricle ejection fraction (RVEF) evaluated with magnetic resonance imaging is a strong determinant of patient outcomes in pulmonary arterial hypertension. We evaluated the prognostic value of RVEF assessed with conventional planar equilibrium radionuclide angiography at baseline and change 3-6 months after initiating pulmonary arterial hypertension-specific therapy. In a prospective cohort of newly diagnosed patients with idiopathic, heritable or anorexigen-associated pulmonary arterial hypertension, RVEF was measured at baseline (n=100) and 3-6 months after initiation of therapy (n=78). After a median follow-up of 4.1 years, 41 deaths occurred, including 35 from cardiovascular causes. Patients with a (median) baseline RVEF >25% had better survival than those with a RVEF <25% using Kaplan-Meier analysis (p=0.010). RVEF at baseline was an independent predictor of all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in adjusted Cox regression model (p=0.002 and p=0.007, respectively; HR 0.93 for both). Patients with stable or increased RVEF at 3-6 months had a trend for improved all-cause survival (HR 2.43, p=0.086) and had less cardiovascular mortality (HR 3.25, p=0.034) than those in whom RVEF decreased despite therapy. RVEF assessed with conventional planar equilibrium radionuclide angiography at baseline and change in RVEF 3-6 months after therapy initiation independently predict outcomes in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension.

Effectiveness of cladribine therapy in patients with pulmonary Langerhans cell histiocytosis

Background

Pulmonary Langerhans cell histiocytosis (PLCH) is a rare disorder characterised by granulomatous proliferation of CD1a-positive histiocytes forming granulomas within lung parenchyma, in strong association with tobacco smoking, and which may result in chronic respiratory failure. Smoking cessation is considered to be critical in management, but has variable effects on outcome. No drug therapy has been validated. Cladribine (chlorodeoxyadenosine, 2-CDA) down-regulates histiocyte proliferation and has been successful in curbing multi-system Langerhans cell histiocytosis and isolated PLCH.

Methods and patients

We retrospectively studied 5 patients (aged 37–55 years, 3 females) with PLCH who received 3 to 4 courses of cladribine therapy as a single agent (0.1 mg/kg per day for 5 consecutive days at monthly intervals). One patient was treated twice because of relapse at 1 year. Progressive pulmonary disease with obstructive ventilatory pattern despite smoking cessation and/or corticosteroid therapy were indications for treatment. Patients were administered oral trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole and valaciclovir to prevent opportunistic infections. They gave written consent to receive off-label cladribine in the absence of validated treatment.

Results

Functional class dyspnea improved with cladribine therapy in 4 out of 5 cases, and forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) increased in all cases by a mean of 387 ml (100–920 ml), contrasting with a steady decline prior to treatment. Chest high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) features improved with cladribine therapy in 4 patients. Hemodynamic improvement was observed in 1 patient with pre-capillary pulmonary hypertension. The results suggested a greater treatment effect in subjects with nodular lung lesions and/or thick-walled cysts on chest HRCT, with diffuse hypermetabolism of lung lesions on positron emission tomography (PET)-scan, and with progressive disease despite smoking cessation. Infectious pneumonia developed in 1 patient, with later grade 4 neutrocytopenia but without infection.

Discussion

Data interpretation was limited by the retrospective, uncontrolled study design and small sample size.

Conclusion

Cladribine as a single agent may be effective therapy in patients with progressive PLCH.

Severe hematologic complications after lung transplantation in patients with telomerase complex mutations

BACKGROUND

Mutations in the telomerase complex (TERT and TR) are associated with pulmonary fibrosis and frequent hematologic manifestations. The aim of this study was to characterize the prognosis of lung transplantation in patients with TERT or TR mutations.

METHODS

Patients with documented TERT or TR mutations who received a lung transplant between 2007 and 2013 in France were identified via an exhaustive search of the lung transplantation network, one expert genetic laboratory, and the clinical research network on rare pulmonary diseases.

RESULTS

There were 9 patients (7 men) with TERT (n = 6) or TR (n = 3) mutations who received a single (n = 8) or a double (n = 1) lung transplant for pulmonary fibrosis. Median age was 50 years (range, 35-61 years) at diagnosis and 52 years (range, 37-62 years) at the time of lung transplantation. Thrombocytopenia was present in 7 patients before lung transplantation. After lung transplantation, 6 patients developed myelodysplasia and/or bone marrow failure, directly contributing to death in 4 cases. Anemia was observed in 9 patients, and neutropenia was observed in 3 patients. The median survival after lung transplantation was 214 days (range, 59-1,709 days).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with mutations of the telomerase complex are at high risk of severe hematologic complications after lung transplantation, in particular, bone marrow failure. Specific recommendations should be developed for appropriate guidance regarding hematologic risk assessment before transplantation and management of the post-transplantation immunosuppressive regimen.

[Not Available]

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis usually develops after 60 years of age, especially in men, leading to progressive exercise dyspnea. Median survival is about 3 years after diagnosis. This disease emerged in the middle of the last century and is linked to smoking. Mutations of genes encoding surfactant proteins and the telomerase complex may occasionally be present. International diagnostic criteria based on histopathology and computed tomography (CT) define the diagnosis as definite, probable or possible. Recent treatments (pirfenidone and nintedanib) have proven beneficial. Therapeutic advances warrant earlier diagnosis, based on Velcro crackles on pulmonary auscultation or interstitial opacities on CT screening for lung cancer.

Occupational hypersensitivity pneumonitis in a baker: a new cause

Bakers are exposed daily to flour and may be susceptible to immunologic occupational diseases. A 30-year-old, nonsmoking, female baker was referred for progressive dyspnea on exertion, basal crackles on auscultation, restrictive lung function, decreased diffusing capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide, ground glass hyperdensities with a mosaic pattern on high-resolution CT scan, 25% lymphocytosis by BAL, and cellular chronic bronchiolitis with peribronchiolar interstitial inflammation by lung biopsy specimen. Cultures from flours isolated nine species, including Aspergillus fumigatus. Twenty-six antigens were tested. Serum-specific precipitins were found against A fumigatus, the flour mite Acarus siro, and total extracts from maize and oat. Outcome was favorable with cessation of occupational exposure to flours and transient therapy with prednisone and immunosuppressive agents. To our knowledge, this report is the first of a well-documented case of hypersensitivity pneumonitis due to sensitization to fungi- and mite-contaminated flours. Hypersensitivity pneumonitis--and not only asthma and allergic rhinitis--should be suspected in bakers with respiratory symptoms.

Eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (Churg-Strauss): clinical characteristics and long-term followup of the 383 patients enrolled in the French Vasculitis Study Group cohort

OBJECTIVE

Earlier studies of eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (Churg-Strauss) (EGPA), with limited patient numbers and followup durations, demonstrated that clinical presentation at diagnosis, but not outcome, differed according to antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA) status. This study was undertaken to describe the main characteristics of a larger patient cohort and their long-term outcomes.

METHODS

A retrospective study of EGPA patients in the French Vasculitis Study Group cohort who satisfied the American College of Rheumatology criteria and/or Chapel Hill definitions was conducted. Patient characteristics and outcomes were compared according to ANCA status and year of diagnosis.

RESULTS

We identified 383 patients diagnosed between 1957 and June 2009 (128 [33.4%] before 1997 or earlier) and followed up for a mean±SD of 66.8±62.5 months. At diagnosis, their mean±SD age was 50.3±15.7 years, and 91.1% had asthma (duration 9.3±10.8 years). Main manifestations included peripheral neuropathy (51.4%); ear, nose, and throat (ENT) signs (48.0%); skin lesions (39.7%); lung infiltrates (38.6%); and cardiomyopathy (16.4%). Among the 348 patients tested at diagnosis for ANCA, the 108 ANCA-positive patients (31.0%) had significantly more frequent ENT manifestations, peripheral neuropathy, and/or renal involvement, but less frequent cardiac manifestations, than the ANCA-negative patients. Vasculitis relapses occurred in 35.2% of the ANCA-positive versus 22.5% of the ANCA-negative patients (P=0.01), and 5.6% versus 12.5%, respectively, died (P<0.05). The 5-year relapse-free survival rate was 58.1% (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 45.6-68.6) for ANCA-positive and 67.8% (95% CI 59.8-74.5) for ANCA-negative patients (P=0.35). Multivariable analysis identified cardiomyopathy, older age, and diagnosis during or prior to 1996 as independent risk factors for death and lower eosinophil count at diagnosis as predictive of relapse.

CONCLUSION

The characteristics and long-term outcomes of EGPA patients differ according to their ANCA status. Although EGPA relapses remain frequent, mortality has declined, at least since 1996.

Right isovolumic contraction velocity predicts survival in pulmonary hypertension

BACKGROUND

Right ventricular function is a strong determinant of prognosis in severe pulmonary hypertension.

METHODS

The aim of this study was to evaluate the prognostic value of estimates of right ventricular function obtained by echocardiography and Doppler tissue imaging and of functional class and 6-min walk distance (6MWD) in 142 patients with either pulmonary arterial hypertension (n = 104) or chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (n = 38). Echocardiography was prospectively performed, and demographics, medications, associated medical conditions, New York Heart Association class, and 6MWD at inclusion in addition to vital status, transplantation, and hospital admission related to pulmonary hypertension at follow-up were then collected by review of the medical records.

RESULTS

Variables associated with overall survival by univariate analysis were 6MWD (P = .009), functional class (P = .024), tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (P = .03) and isovolumic peak velocity at the tricuspid annulus (IVCv) (P = .003). On multivariate analysis, IVCv (P = .015) and 6MWD (P = .016) were the only independent predictors of survival. Kaplan-Meier estimates of survival at 1 year were 95% in patients with IVCv > 9 cm/sec and 80% in those with IVCv ≤ 9 cm/sec (P = .002). Intraobserver and interobserver variability of IVCv measurement were 5% and 9%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Measurement of right ventricular function by Doppler tissue imaging, an easy, noninvasive, and reproducible method, is an independent predictor of clinical outcomes in patients with severe pulmonary hypertension.

Hypereosinophilic obliterative bronchiolitis: a distinct, unrecognised syndrome

Biopsy-proven cases of eosinophilic bronchiolitis have only been reported in isolation, and all come from Japan. We present six patients with hypereosinophilic obliterative bronchiolitis (HOB), defined by the following criteria: 1) blood eosinophil cell count >1 G·L(-1) and/or bronchoalveolar lavage eosinophil count >25%; 2) persistent airflow obstruction despite high-dose inhaled bronchodilators and corticosteroids; and 3) eosinophilic bronchiolitis at lung biopsy (n=1) and/or direct signs of bronchiolitis (centrilobular nodules and branching opacities) on computed tomography (n=6). Chronic dyspnoea and cough which was often severe, without the characteristic features of asthma, were the main clinical manifestations. Atopy and asthma were present in the history of three and two patients, respectively. One patient met biological criteria of the lymphoid variant of idiopathic hypereosinophilic syndrome. Mean blood eosinophil cell count was 2.7 G·L(-1) and mean eosinophil differential percentage at bronchoalveolar lavage was 63%. Mean initial forced expiratory volume in 1 s/forced vital capacity ratio was 50%, normalising with oral corticosteroid therapy in all patients. HOB manifestations recurred when oral prednisone was decreased to 10-20 mg·day(-1), but higher doses controlled the disease. HOB is a characteristic entity deserving to be individualised among the eosinophilic respiratory disorders. Thorough analysis is needed to determine whether unrecognised and/or smouldering HOB may further be a cause of irreversible airflow obstruction in chronic eosinophilic respiratory diseases.

Survival in systemic sclerosis-associated pulmonary arterial hypertension in the modern management era

Objective

To assess the survival and prognostic factors in patients with newly diagnosed incident systemic sclerosis (SSc)–associated pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) in the modern management era.

Methods

Prospectively enrolled SSc patients in the French PAH Network between January 2006 and November 2009, with newly diagnosed PAH and no interstitial lung disease, were analysed (85 patients, mean age 64.9±12.2 years). Median follow-up after PAH diagnosis was 2.32 years.

Results

A majority of patients were in NYHA functional class III–IV (79%). Overall survival was 90% (95% CI 81% to 95%), 78% (95% CI 67% to 86%) and 56% (95% CI 42% to 68%) at 1, 2 and 3 years from PAH diagnosis, respectively. Age (HR: 1.05, 95% CI 1.01 to 1.09, p=0.012) and cardiac index (HR: 0.49, 95% CI 0.27 to 0.89, p=0.019) were significant predictors in the univariate analysis. We also observed strong trends for gender, SSc subtypes, New York Heart Association functional class, pulmonary vascular resistance and capacitance to be significant predictors in the univariate analysis. Conversely, six-min walk distance, mean pulmonary arterial and right atrial pressures were not significant predictors. In the multivariate model, gender was the only independent factor associated with survival (HR: 4.76, 95% CI 1.35 to 16.66, p=0.015 for male gender).

Conclusions

Incident SSc-associated PAH remains a devastating disease even in the modern management era. Age, male gender and cardiac index were the main prognosis factors in this cohort of patients. Early detection of less severe patients should be a priority.