Comparison of renal response parameters for juvenile membranous plus proliferative lupus nephritis versus isolated proliferative lupus nephritis: a cross-sectional analysis of the CARRA Registry

Lupus nephritis (LN) affects many patients with juvenile systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and is a significant cause of disease morbidity. Membranous plus proliferative LN (M + PLN) may represent a more difficult to treat subtype of juvenile LN, compared to isolated proliferative LN (PLN). In this retrospective observational study, we utilized data from the Childhood Arthritis and Rheumatism Research Alliance (CARRA) registry to compare response rates for pediatric M + PLN versus PLN. Response was assessed at the most recent CARRA registry visit gathered ≥6 months after diagnostic kidney biopsy. Estimated glomerular filtration rate (GFR) less than 90 ml/min/1.73 m(2), indicating renal insufficiency, was found in 16.1% of patients with M + PLN and 6.1% of patients with PLN (P = 0.071). We found no significant difference in achievement of response in either hematuria or proteinuria between PLN and M + PLN groups or between subgroups determined by presence of class III vs. class IV proliferative disease. Exposure rates to mycophenolate, cyclophosphamide, and rituximab were similar between groups. Future studies will be necessary to correlate pediatric LN renal histology data with treatment response as well as other disease outcome measures.

Annexin A5 anticoagulant activity in children with systemic lupus erythematosus and the association with antibodies to domain I of β2-glycoprotein I

Children with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) have a high prevalence of antiphospholipid (aPL) antibodies and are at increased risk for aPL-related thrombosis. We investigated the association between annexin A5 anticoagulant activity and antibodies to the domain I portion of β2-glycoprotein I (anti-DI antibodies), and propose a potential mechanism for the pathogenesis of aPL-related thrombosis. Using samples from 183 children with SLE collected during the Atherosclerosis Prevention in Pediatric Lupus Erythematosus (APPLE) trial, we examined resistance to the anticoagulant effects of annexin A5, using the annexin A5 resistance (A5R) assay, and evaluated for anti-DI IgG antibodies. Children with SLE had higher frequency of anti-D1 antibodies (p = 0.014) and significantly reduced A5R compared to pediatric controls: mean A5R = 172 ± 30% versus 242 ± 32% (p < 0.0001). Children with SLE and positive anti-DI antibodies had significantly lower mean A5R levels compared to those with negative anti-DI antibodies: mean A5R = 155 ± 24% versus 177 ± 30% (p < 0.0001). In multivariate analysis, anti-DI antibodies (p = 0.013) and lupus anticoagulant (LA) (p = 0.036) were both independently associated with reduced A5R. Children with SLE have significantly reduced annexin A5 anticoagulant activity that is associated with the presence of LA and anti-DI antibodies.

Use of atorvastatin in systemic lupus erythematosus in children and adolescents

OBJECTIVE

Statins reduce atherosclerosis and cardiovascular morbidity in the general population, but their efficacy and safety in children and adolescents with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) are unknown. This study was undertaken to determine the 3-year efficacy and safety of atorvastatin in preventing subclinical atherosclerosis progression in pediatric-onset SLE.

METHODS

A total of 221 participants with pediatric SLE (ages 10-21 years) from 21 North American sites were enrolled in the Atherosclerosis Prevention in Pediatric Lupus Erythematosus study, a randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial, between August 2003 and November 2006 with 36-month followup. Participants were randomized to receive atorvastatin (n=113) or placebo (n=108) at 10 or 20 mg/day depending on weight, in addition to usual care. The primary end point was progression of mean-mean common carotid intima-media thickening (CIMT) measured by ultrasound. Secondary end points included other segment/wall-specific CIMT measures, lipid profile, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) level, and SLE disease activity and damage outcomes.

RESULTS

Progression of mean-mean common CIMT did not differ significantly between treatment groups (0.0010 mm/year for atorvastatin versus 0.0024 mm/year for placebo; P=0.24). The atorvastatin group achieved lower hsCRP (P=0.04), total cholesterol (P<0.001), and low-density lipoprotein (P<0.001) levels compared with placebo. In the placebo group, CIMT progressed significantly across all CIMT outcomes (0.0023-0.0144 mm/year; P<0.05). Serious adverse events and critical safety measures did not differ between groups.

CONCLUSION

Our results indicate that routine statin use over 3 years has no significant effect on subclinical atherosclerosis progression in young SLE patients; however, further analyses may suggest subgroups that would benefit from targeted statin therapy. Atorvastatin was well tolerated without safety concerns.

Laboratory markers of cardiovascular risk in pediatric SLE: the APPLE baseline cohort

As part of the Atherosclerosis Prevention in Pediatric Lupus Erythematosus (APPLE) Trial, a prospective multicenter cohort of 221 children and adolescents with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) (mean age 15.7 years, 83% female) underwent baseline measurement of markers of cardiovascular risk, including fasting levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), triglycerides (TG), lipoprotein A (Lpa), homocysteine and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP). A cross-sectional analysis of the baseline laboratory values and clinical characteristics of this cohort was performed. Univariable relationships between the cardiovascular markers of interest and clinical variables were assessed, followed by multivariable linear regression modeling. Mean levels of LDL, HDL, Lpa, TG, hs-CRP and homocysteine were in the normal or borderline ranges. In multivariable analysis, increased Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI), prednisone dose, and hypertension (HTN) were independently associated with higher LDL levels. Higher hs-CRP and creatinine clearance were independently related to lower HDL levels. Higher body mass index (BMI), prednisone dose, and homocysteine levels were independently associated with higher TG levels. Only Hispanic or non-White status predicted higher Lpa levels. Proteinuria, higher TG and lower creatinine clearance were independently associated with higher homocysteine levels, while use of multivitamin with folate predicted lower homocysteine levels. Higher BMI, lower HDL, and longer SLE disease duration, but not SLEDAI, were independently associated with higher hs-CRP levels. The R(2) for these models ranged from 7% to 23%. SLE disease activity as measured by the SLEDAI was associated only with higher LDL levels and not with hs-CRP. Markers of renal injury (HTN, proteinuria, and creatinine clearance) were independently associated with levels of LDL, HDL, and homocysteine, highlighting the importance of renal status in the cardiovascular health of children and adolescents with SLE. Future longitudinal analysis of the APPLE cohort is needed to further examine these relationships.

Long-term safety and effectiveness of etanercept in children with selected categories of juvenile idiopathic arthritis

OBJECTIVE

This study was undertaken to evaluate the long-term safety and effectiveness of etanercept alone or in combination with methotrexate (MTX) in children with selected categories of juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA).

METHODS

Patients ages 2-18 years with rheumatoid factor (RF)-positive or RF-negative polyarthritis, systemic JIA, or extended oligoarthritis were eligible for the study. Patients received MTX alone (> or =10 mg/m(2)/week [ approximately 0.3 mg/kg/week], maximum dosage 1 mg/kg/week), etanercept alone (0.8 mg/kg/week, maximum dose 50 mg), or etanercept plus MTX for 3 years in an open-label, nonrandomized study. Safety was assessed by measuring rates of adverse events, and effectiveness was assessed using the physician's global assessment of disease activity and the pediatric total joint assessment.

RESULTS

A total of 197, 103, and 294 patients were enrolled in the MTX, etanercept, and etanercept plus MTX groups, respectively. Exposure-adjusted rates of adverse events were similar among the 3 treatment groups (18.3, 18.7, and 21.6 per 100 patient-years in the MTX, etanercept, and etanercept plus MTX groups, respectively). Respective rates per 100 patient-years of serious adverse events (4.6, 7.1, and 6.0) and medically important infections (1.3, 1.8, and 2.1) were also similar among the 3 treatment groups. Scores for physician's global assessment and total active joints improved from baseline, and improvement was maintained for the duration of the study.

CONCLUSION

These data confirm the findings of other long-term studies and suggest that etanercept or etanercept plus MTX has an acceptable safety and effectiveness profile in children with selected categories of JIA. Improvement was maintained for 3 years in those continuing to receive medication.

Premature atherosclerosis in systemic lupus erythematosus

Premature atherosclerosis is a recognized complication of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Since life expectancy in SLE is improving, premature atherosclerosis is emerging as an ever more important clinical issue. Atherosclerosis begins in the pediatric age group, and interventions directed at prevention should begin in childhood as well. Possible etiologies include dyslipoproteinemia (DL) from the underlying chronic inflammatory disease or from corticosteroid therapy, hypercoagulation due to antiphospholipid antibodies or nephrotic syndrome, vasculitis, and hypertension. A relationship between DL and presence of anticardiolipin antibodies (aCL) has been reported. Dietary therapy is helpful, but many patients continue to have significant DL after both dietary modification and fish oil supplementation. Lipid lowering drugs may be indicated in this subgroup. Potential mechanisms of the DL are discussed. Other strategies to prevent atherosclerosis and its complications are reviewed.

Etanercept in children with polyarticular juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. Pediatric Rheumatology Collaborative Study Group

BACKGROUND

We evaluated the safety and efficacy of etanercept, a soluble tumor necrosis factor receptor (p75):Fc fusion protein, in children with polyarticular juvenile rheumatoid arthritis who did not tolerate or had an inadequate response to methotrexate.

METHODS

Patients 4 to 17 years old received 0.4 mg of etanercept per kilogram of body weight subcutaneously twice weekly for up to three months in the initial, open-label part of a multicenter trial. Those who responded to treatment then entered a double-blind study and were randomly assigned to receive either placebo or etanercept for four months or until a flare of the disease occurred. A response was defined as an improvement of 30 percent or more in at least three of six indicators of disease activity, with no more than one indicator worsening by more than 30 percent.

RESULTS

At the end of the open-label study, 51 of the 69 patients (74 percent) had had responses to etanercept treatment. In the double-blind study, 21 of the 26 patients who received placebo (81 percent) withdrew because of disease flare, as compared with 7 of the 25 patients who received etanercept (28 percent) (P=0.003). The median time to disease flare with placebo was 28 days, as compared with more than 116 days with etanercept (P<0.001). In the double-blind study, there were no significant differences between the two treatment groups in the frequency of adverse events.

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment with etanercept leads to significant improvement in patients with active polyarticular juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. Etanercept is well tolerated by pediatric patients.

Family-level coping in juvenile rheumatoid arthritis: assessing the utility of a quantitative family interview

OBJECTIVE

To explore the viability of a quantitative family interview to describe family-level coping strategies used to deal with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA)-related stressors for early and late adolescents.

METHOD

A structured interview protocol with 30 adolescents with JRA and family members assessed ways JRA disrupts or changes family functioning. Emotional reactions, sequential phases of family response, and treatment adherence were discussed. Interviews were coded for family-level coping. To assess adjustment, family members completed the Youth Self Report and the Family Environment Scale. The pediatric rheumatologist provided medical information.

RESULTS

The family interview produced both quantitative and qualitative data. Families reported multiple JRA-related stressors (mean 6.6). For many adolescents, treatment adherence was problematic. Families used all 3 types of coping strategies (appraisal-, problem-, and emotion-focused) to varying degrees. Problem-focused approaches were most commonly used and included seeking support (used by 73% of families), self-reliance (70%), and family coordination (70%) for dealing with specific problems, and seeking information about JRA (67%). Emotion-focused approaches, such as impulsive outbursts and diminished awareness of others' feelings, were associated with problematic adjustment. Few differences were found between the families of early and late adolescents.

CONCLUSION

The quantitative family interview has the potential to be a useful tool in documenting JRA-related stressors, family-level coping processes, and how family-level coping is associated with treatment adherence and psychosocial adjustment.

Other rheumatic diseases in adolescence. Dermatomyositis, scleroderma, overlap syndromes, systemic vasculitis, and panniculitis

In addition to juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), dermatomyosytis, scleroderma, overlap syndromes, systemic vasculitis, and panniculitis also present in adolescence. The authors discuss the complex epidemiology, diagnosis, clinical features, diagnostic testing, treatment, and prognosis of these diseases.

Discontinuation of methotrexate treatment in juvenile rheumatoid arthritis

OBJECTIVE

Children with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA) treated with methotrexate (MTX) were examined for their course after the discontinuation of the drug to define the relapse and remission rates and to identify predictors of relapse.

METHODOLOGY

A retrospective chart review of all patients with JRA was conducted in two pediatric rheumatology centers. A total of 101 patients being treated with MTX were identified. Dose, response to the drug, and length of time until reaching a state of complete control were noted. The outcome of patients with a complete response in whom the drug was discontinued was examined with regards to length of time to relapse or continued remission.

RESULTS

In 25 patients, MTX was discontinued after reaching complete control of the disease. There were no statistically significant predictors of response to MTX identified. Of 25 whose MTX was discontinued, relapse occurred in 13 (52%) after a mean of 11 months after discontinuation. There was no significant difference among patients who relapsed or those who remained in remission as to sex, subtype of JRA, number of months to complete control, or number of months in complete control until discontinuing MTX. Patients younger than 41/2 years at diagnosis were found to be more likely to relapse than patients diagnosed at a later age. In 10 of the patients who relapsed, complete control was induced within a mean of 7 months after restarting MTX.

CONCLUSION

The optimal time for discontinuing MTX in children with JRA who have achieved complete control is unknown. Relapse occurred in approximately half of the patients in whom MTX was discontinued. Because response to reinstitution of the drug is good, it is reasonable to discontinue MTX after prolonged complete control. It remains to be seen whether the relapse rate can be improved by waiting for longer periods of time in complete control before its discontinuation.

Methotrexate treatment of Wegener granulomatosis in children

Wegener granulomatosis traditionally has been treated with glucocorticoids and cyclophosphamide. Both the disease and its treatments are associated with significant morbidity and mortality rates. There has been an effort to find effective but less toxic alternative treatments. We describe three children with Wegener granulomatosis who responded well to treatment with glucocorticoids and methotrexate, similar to a regimen used in adults.

Hyperlipidemia and the rheumatic diseases

Premature atherosclerosis is a recognized complication of systemic lupus erythematosus. Atherosclerosis begins in the pediatric age group, and interventions directed toward prevention should begin in childhood as well. A possible cause of premature atherosclerosis is dyslipoproteinemia from the underlying chronic inflammatory disease or from corticosteroid therapy. A relationship between dyslipoproteinemia and anticardiolipin antibodies has been demonstrated. Dietary therapy is helpful, but many patients continue to have significant dyslipoproteinemia after both dietary modification and fish oil supplementation. Lipid-lowering drugs may be indicated in this subgroup. Potential mechanisms of dyslipoproteinemia are discussed.

Immunoglobulin M immunoblot for diagnosis of Borrelia burgdorferi infection in patients with acute facial palsy

We used immunoblotting to improve the specificity of the serologic diagnosis of Lyme borreliosis in cases of acute facial palsy. Twelve of 15 patients (80%) with suspected Lyme borreliosis, versus 0 of 10 controls, were positive by immunoglobulin M immunoblotting of acute-phase sera and 3 were negative, including 2 with borderline enzyme immunoassay results. Immunoglobulin M immunoblotting is a useful test to confirm Borrelia burgdorferi infection in patients with acute facial palsy and a positive enzyme immunoassay result.

Increased urinary NO3(-) + NO2- and neopterin excretion in children breast fed by mothers with silicone breast implants: evidence for macrophage activation

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether children breast fed by mothers with silicone implants (BFSI) have increased urinary excretion of nitric oxide (NO) metabolites and neopterin, whether these are associated with esophageal dysmotility, and whether in vitro incubation of macrophages with silicone increases NO synthesis.

METHODS

In a case-control study based on laboratory investigation, 38 BFSI children (17 male, 21 female, mean age 7.1 +/- 3.6 years, range 0.5-16.5) were compared with 30 controls (14 male, 16 female, mean age 8.4 +/- 3.5 years, range 2.5-17). Urinary NO was quantitated using the Griess reaction. Urinary neopterin was determined by radioimmunoassay. Murine macrophages were cultured with or without silicone and NO production assayed.

RESULTS

Urinary NO and neopterin were significantly increased in BFSI children compared with controls. There was a significant inverse relationship between urinary neopterin excretion and the severity of esophageal dysfunction. In vitro nitrite production was nearly 60% higher in macrophages grown on silicone compared to other growth conditions.

CONCLUSION

BFSI children have evidence of macrophage activation and this is associated with esophageal dysmotility. In vitro data support the proposal that silicone exposure causes macrophage activation.

Lack of autoantibody expression in children born to mothers with silicone breast implants

OBJECTIVE

We determined systematically the prevalence of autoantibodies in children born to mothers with silicone breast implants and the relationships with clinical symptoms and methods of exposure.

METHODS

Autoantibody expression was determined in 80 children born to mothers with silicone implants and in 42 controls. A clinical assessment score was assigned to each patient. Antinuclear antibodies as well as antibodies to mitochondrial, smooth muscle, striational, myocardial, parietal cell, reticulin tissues, or subcellular compartments were measured by indirect fluorescent assay. Antibodies to nRNP (U1-RNP/snRNP); Sm; SS-A; SS-B; Scl-70; thyroid microsome; immunoglobulin (Ig)G, IgM, and IgA antibodies to cardiolipin; and antibodies to native and denatured human types I and II collagen were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Serum complement components C3 and C4 and IgM rheumatoid factor were measured by nephelometry.

RESULTS

Autoantibody prevalence was not significantly different between children born to mothers with silicone implants and controls. The presence of autoantibodies was not related to the children's clinical symptoms or to the method of exposure.

CONCLUSIONS

Determination of autoantibody production is of limited clinical utility in the evaluation of children born to mothers with silicone breast implants.

Effects of dietary modification and fish oil supplementation on dyslipoproteinemia in pediatric systemic lupus erythematosus

OBJECTIVE

To determine if a program of dietary modification and fish oil supplementation is effective in treating the dyslipoproteinemia in pediatric systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

METHODS

Prospective clinical trial where each patient serves as his/her own control. Twenty-four consecutive adolescents fulfilling SLE classification criteria were screened with fasting lipid profiles. Patients were identified as having dyslipoproteinemia of active disease or of corticosteroid therapy. Patients were treated for 6 weeks with dietary modification and if dyslipoproteinemia did not normalize with another 6 weeks of dietary modification and fish oil supplementation.

RESULTS

Seventeen patients (71%) had dyslipoproteinemia; 10 of active disease, 4 of steroid therapy; 3 with a combined pattern. Eleven patients underwent dietary modification. There was a significant decrease in serum triglyceride concentrations (p < 0.05). Total cholesterol, low density lipoprotein cholesterol, and high density lipoprotein cholesterol did not change significantly. A further significant decline in serum triglycerides was achieved with fish oil supplementation (p < 0.05). Five of the 11 patients who underwent treatment continued to have dyslipoproteinemia.

CONCLUSION

Dyslipoproteinemia is common in pediatric SLE. Dietary modification and fish oil supplementation appear to be effective in improving serum lipid profiles, and blinded studies are warranted. a significant number of patients may require pharmacologic therapy for persistent dyslipoproteinemia to prevent complications of premature atherosclerosis.

Muscle, reticuloendothelial, and late skin manifestations of Lyme disease

In addition to classic organ system involvement, Lyme disease may be characterized by myositis, liver and spleen involvement, and atypical cutaneous manifestations. Myositis is characteristically localized near an involved joint or localized neuropathy. Nuclear imaging with gallium-67 may be useful for detection. Myositis responds to treatment with intravenous or oral antibiotics. Patients with erythema migrans have been observed to have liver function test abnormalities in the absence of symptomatic hepatitis. Splenomegaly has been noted infrequently in patients with Lyme disease. Chronic cutaneous manifestations of Lyme disease--including erythema migrans, acrodermatitis chronica atrophicans, and lymphadenosis benigna cutis--have been observed more frequently in Europe than in the United States. It appears that they are caused primarily by the Borrelia afzelii genomic group of Borrelia burgdorferi, which has been found exclusively in Europe.

Interpretation of immunoblot in pediatric Lyme arthritis

OBJECTIVE

To determine the pattern of bands present on an immunoblot (Western blot) in children with Lyme arthritis.

METHODS

Sera from 20 children with Lyme arthritis from an endemic area were assayed, and the results compared with those obtained in 162 control sera from the same area. The study was retrospective, serum bank based.

RESULTS

Eighty-seven percent of control sera revealed no bands on immunoblot, and all had < or = 4 bands. All Lyme arthritis sera revealed > or = 5 bands (mean 8.4, range 5-13 bands). Bands of molecular weight 25, 28, 39, 47, 50, and 93 kDa were seen in patients and not in controls. There was no correlation between duration of arthritis or activity of arthritis at presentation and number of bands present.

CONCLUSION

Criteria were derived for a positive immunoblot based on the number and molecular weights of bands seen in our laboratory. These are the presence of 5 or more bands, of which at least one is an apparently specific band (25, 28, 39, 47, 50, or 93 kDa). Results of immunoblot are useful to confirm clinically suspected Lyme arthritis.

Asymptomatic superior vena cava thrombosis and pulmonary embolism in an adolescent with SLE and antiphospholipid antibodies

We report a 14-year-old boy with systemic lupus erythematosus and anticardiolipin antibodies. He developed asymptomatic superior vena cava thrombosis and silent pulmonary embolism. Computed tomographic scan of his chest and abdomen showed features of long standing obstruction secondary to superior vena cava thrombosis. Asymptomatic thrombosis of the major vessels and silent pulmonary emboli are part of the disease spectrum of pediatric antiphospholipid syndrome.

Sclerodermalike esophageal disease in children breast-fed by mothers with silicone breast implants

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether breast-fed children of mothers with silicone implants are at increased risk for the development of sclerodermalike esophageal involvement compared with children not exposed to silicone implants.

DESIGN

Case-series [corrected].

SETTING

Referral-based pediatric gastroenterology clinic.

PATIENTS

Eleven children (mean age, 6.0 years; range, 1.5 to 13 years; six boys and five girls) referred for abdominal pain who were born to mothers who had silicone breast implants (eight breast-fed children and three bottle-fed) were compared with 17 patients (mean age, 10.7 years; range, 2 to 18 years; 11 boys and six girls) with abdominal pain who were not exposed to silicone implants.

METHODS

All children underwent esophageal manometry and upper intestinal endoscopy with esophageal biopsy and were tested for antinuclear antibody and autoantibodies to Scl-70, centromere, ribonucleoprotein, Sm, Ro, La, and phospholipid.

RESULTS

Six of the eight breast-fed children from mothers with silicone implants had significantly abnormal esophageal motility with nearly absent peristalsis in the distal two thirds of the esophagus and decreased lower sphincter pressure. Upper esophageal pressures and motility were normal. Compared with controls, the breast-fed children had significantly decreased lower sphincter pressure and abnormal esophageal wave propagation. These manometric abnormalities were not seen in the three bottle-fed children. There was no difference in the expression of autoantibodies in the breast-fed children compared with the bottle-fed children or controls.

CONCLUSIONS

A relationship appears to exist between breast-feeding by mothers with silicone implants and abnormal esophageal motility. Studies evaluating larger numbers of children are needed to determine the extent of the risk.

Rheumatologic manifestations of pediatric human immunodeficiency virus infection

OBJECTIVE

Multiple rheumatologic signs and symptoms have been described in adult human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. Our goals were to determine the incidence and characteristics of rheumatologic manifestations in HIV infected children, and to examine their relationship to laboratory evidence of autoimmunity.

METHODS

Forty HIV infected children were studied by means of a questionnaire, history, examination, and serologic testing including determination of concentrations of immunoglobulin, C3, C4, and of presence of antinuclear antibodies (ANA), rheumatoid factor (RF), and circulating immune complexes (CIC).

RESULTS

Rheumatologic manifestations included arthralgia (15%), myalgia (8%), erythema multiforme (3%), and parotitis (20%). Hypergammaglobulinemia (98%), hypocomplementemia (25%), RF (10%), ANA (3%), and CIC (82% of patients studied) were also found. Patients with or without rheumatologic manifestations did not differ significantly in any laboratory variable measured.

CONCLUSIONS

In contrast to HIV infected adults, HIV infected children, do not display serious rheumatologic manifestations. Mild rheumatologic symptoms are common, but there is little evidence that these are immune mediated. Parotid enlargement occurs and must be differentiated from Sjögren's syndrome. Differences between rheumatologic manifestations of HIV infection in children and adults may reflect host factors such as the immaturity of the pediatric immune system, or environmental factors such as modes of acquisition of HIV, duration of HIV infection, or exposure to other sexually transmitted organisms.

Childhood systemic lupus erythematosus, dermatomyositis, scleroderma, and systemic vasculitis

Recent developments in the identification of prognostic features, measures of disease activity, and responses to therapy in the childhood rheumatic diseases are summarized. Progress in understanding the immunopathogenesis of neonatal lupus erythematosus phenomenon and Kawasaki disease is reviewed.

Intraarticular alpha 2-macroglobulin complexes and proteolytic activity in children with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis

In juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA), it is likely that the release of proteolytic enzymes from activated synovial fluid neutrophils overwhelms the major protease inhibitor, alpha 2-macroglobulin (alpha 2-MG), and leads to cartilage destruction. Due to the unique nature of the alpha 2-MG-protease complex, proteolytic function is maintained until the complex is cleared. In this study, we sought to determine the concentration of alpha 2-MG-protease complexes in synovial fluid of patients with JRA, the proteolytic activity found in their synovial fluid, and whether the alpha 2-MG complexes are associated with increased proteolytic activity. The JRA patients' synovial fluids had complex levels of 217.0 +/- 192.2 nmol/L--significantly elevated compared with plasma values (p < 0.001) and with control synovial fluid (p < 0.05). Elastase activity (almost entirely neutrophil elastase) was detected in all JRA synovial fluid samples (mean 2.9 +/- 2.6 mg/L) and significantly correlated with alpha 2-MG-complex values (r = 0.67, p < 0.01). Synovial fluid tryptic activity was detectable in all JRA patients but did not significantly correlate with alpha 2-MG complexes (r = 0.53, p > 0.05). Seventy-four percent of total elastase activity and 41% of total tryptic activity were contained in the alpha 2-MG-complex fractions. We suggest that the increased concentration of synovial fluid alpha 2-MG complexes with retained elastase activity contributes to continued proteolysis and joint destruction and may affect the subsequent disease course through its role as a modulator of IL-6.

The rheumatoid factor cross-reactive idiotype in juvenile rheumatoid arthritis: role of the CD5-positive B cell

The major rheumatoid factor cross-reactive idiotype (RCRI), which was defined by prototypic monoclonal IgM rheumatoid factors (RF) from Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia patient Wa, is present on 60% of all monoclonal IgM RF paraproteins. The RCRI is expressed in high frequency by pokeweed mitogen-derived plasma cells (PWM-PCs) and in high concentration in the sera from adults with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) who express RF in their sera. Unlike adults with RA, most children with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA) are seronegative for RF as detected by classic IgG binding assays. In the experiments summarized herein, we demonstrated that approximately 2/3 of JRA patients who are seronegative for RF, express the RCRI in high concentration in their sera and in high frequency among their PWM-PCs. Expression of this idiotype could not be attributed to expression of hidden IgM RF, or IgA RF, and may be expressed on a parallel set of immunoglobulin molecules, related to RFs, but lacking the ability to bind to IgG. There is an increased number of circulating CD5+ B cells in patients with JRA but there was no significant relationship between CD5+ B cell numbers and serum RCRI concentration, suggesting that in this disease, RCRI bearing immunoglobulins may also be produced by non-CD5+ B cells or by a small subset of CD5+ B cells.

Positive serology for Lyme borreliosis in patients with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis in a Lyme borreliosis endemic area: analysis by immunoblot

Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA) and the arthritis of Lyme borreliosis in children can mimic each other. As false positive reactions are frequent in ELISA for Lyme borreliosis, they cannot be used reliably to make the distinction. Ninety-nine children diagnosed as having JRA at a children's hospital in an endemic area were evaluated by ELISA and immunoblot for antibodies to Borrelia burgdorferi. Sera from 9% were positive by ELISA, 5 of which showed bands on immunoblot. None met criteria for positive immunoblot. The antigenic basis of false positive ELISA was most frequently a reactivity to both 21 and 41 kDa. Analysis by immunoblot can help to definitively exclude Lyme borreliosis in children presenting with JRA in an endemic area.

Panniculitis and fever in children

We describe three children with panniculitis and associated systemic manifestations including fever. Histopathologic features, such as the presence of lobular or septal inflammation, presence of vasculitis, character of the cellular infiltrate, and presence of erythrophagocytosis, were useful in classifying this group of panniculitides. In one patient with subcutaneous polyarteritis nodosa, corticosteroid therapy was effective; in two other patients with histiocytic cytophagic panniculitis, there were poor responses to steroids, intravenously administered immune globulin, dapsone, or antimalarial drugs; cyclosporine was very effective and appeared to be the drug of choice.

Cognitive-behavioral intervention for juvenile primary fibromyalgia syndrome

Seven girls between 8.6 and 17.7 years of age were treated for symptoms of juvenile primary fibromyalgia syndrome (JPFS) using cognitive-behavioral techniques (progressive muscle relaxation, guided imagery) aimed at reducing pain and facilitating sleep, as well as strategies aimed at increasing mastery over the pain and improving mood. Patients satisfying diagnostic criteria for JPFS based on the presence of chronic diffuse musculoskeletal pain lasting at least 3 months (mean = 9.4, SD = 8.28) and a minimum of 5 characteristic soft tissue trigger and/or tender points with absence of synovitis, were referred for intervention. Results indicated that in the majority of patients, such techniques were effective in reducing pain and facilitating improved functioning.

Cognitive-behavioral pain management in children with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis

Decreasing chronic joint pain is a major goal in the management of juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. Cognitive-behavioral self-regulatory techniques were taught to children with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis to reduce musculoskeletal pain intensity and to facilitate better adaptive functioning. Subjects were 13 children between the ages of 4.5 and 16.9 years who had pauciarticular or systemic onset juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. Baseline data included an initial comprehensive assessment of pain, disease activity, and level of functional disability, as well as pain intensity ratings gathered over a 4-week period. Subjects were seen for eight individual sessions in which self-regulatory techniques (progressive muscle relaxation, guided imagery, meditative breathing) were taught, and parents were seen for two sessions in which key aspects of behavioral pain management techniques were reviewed. Results indicated that these techniques led to substantial reduction of pain intensity, which generalized to outside the clinic setting. Six- and 12-month follow-up data showed consistent decreases in pain as well as improved adaptive functioning. The data suggest that cognitive-behavioral interventions for pain are an effective adjunct to standard pharmacologic interventions for pain in patients with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis.

Assessment of pain in patients with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis: relation between pain intensity and degree of joint inflammation

The relation between pain and joint inflammation in patients with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis has not previously been systematically evaluated. Eighteen patients with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis completed paediatric pain questionnaires and the joints affected were examined by thermography. Although significant correlations were shown between parent and doctor pain intensity ratings and joint temperature, correlations of patient pain intensity ratings and joint temperature were only significant in younger children. The degree of joint inflammation is only one factor of several contributing to the amount of subjective pain experienced by children with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, indicating the need for a comprehensive assessment of the relatively independent variables of inflammation and pain in children with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis.

Expression of the rheumatoid factor cross-reactive idiotype in JRA: association with disease onset subtype, disease activity and disease severity

We previously reported that approximately one-third of patients with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA) express high concentrations of antibodies marked by the rheumatoid factor cross reactive idiotype (RCRI) in their sera (6). In order to determine if an expression of RCRI is associated with certain clinical features of the disease, we prospectively studied 49 patients with JRA over a six month period, and determined serum RCRI concentrations by inhibition ELISA. RCRI concentrations correlated significantly with the duration of morning stiffness (r = .3866, p less than .01), and the functional class (p less than .001), but not with the number of active joints. Expression of RCRI was higher in patients with systemic onset disease (p less than .03), compared to patients with pauciarticular or polyarticular disease. In patients studied on more than one occasion, the RCRI expression was relatively constant despite changes in disease activity. A subset of JRA patients with systemic onset disease, higher serum concentrations of the RCRI.

Hidden rheumatoid factor and Wa idiotype expression in juvenile rheumatoid arthritis

The major rheumatoid factor cross-reactive idiotype, which was defined by prototypic monoclonal IgM rheumatoid factors from Waldenstrom's macroglobulinaemia patient Wa, is present on 60% of all monoclonal IgM RF paraproteins. One-third of patients with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA), who are seronegative for classic IgM rheumatoid factor (RF), express the Wa idiotype in high titre in their sera. To determine if the Wa idiotype is present on hidden rheumatoid factors in JRA patient sera, we studied hidden RF expression by both ELISA and haemolytic assay techniques. The majority of JRA sera with increased concentrations of the Wa idiotype did not have increased RF activity nor hidden RF activity. In some JRA patients, the Wa idiotype may be expressed on a parallel set of immunoglobulin molecules, related to RFs, but lacking the ability to bind to IgG.

Identification of anti-idiotypic antibodies in the sera of ryegrass-allergic and nonallergic individuals

Anti-idiotypic (Id) antibodies (Abs) are generated in the humoral response to antigen (Ag). Some of these anti-Id Abs are capable of binding to the combining site or paratope of Abs that bind Ag. These Ab2 can competitively inhibit the binding of Ab1 to Ag may trigger an Ab1 response similar to the response induced by Ag. To determine if specific Ab2 that inhibit the binding of IgE Abs to ryegrass (RG)-pollen allergens are present in the sera of RG-allergic (RGA) individuals before the initiation of allergen-specific hyposensitization with RG-pollen extract, we studied sera from five RGA and four nonallergic (NA) subjects in an IgE anti-RG RAST-inhibition assay. Ab2-enriched serum fractions were prepared from these study subjects by exhaustive mixed grass-pollen affinity chromatography to remove IgE and IgG anti-RG Ab1 from whole serum aliquots containing Ab1. Unabsorbed, twice-concentrated sera were diluted to one-time concentrated sera with equal volumes of either Ab2-enriched sera without Ab1 or borate-buffered saline absorbed by mixed grass-pollen affinity chromatography. IgE anti-RG Ab1 was determined by a standard RG RAST assay. We have detected Ab2 in the sera of the RGA patients, which inhibit the binding of autologous and allogeneic IgE anti-RG to RG Ags in solid phase. Parallel RG RAST assays with sera from NA subjects demonstrated no significant inhibition. Ab2-enriched sera from some grass-allergic and some NA subjects inhibited IgE anti-RG binding found in some RGA patients' sera. We conclude that anti-Id Abs, Ab2, specific for IgE anti-RG, Ab1, are present in some RGA patients and NA individuals.

Expression of the major rheumatoid factor cross-reactive idiotype in pediatric patients with systemic lupus erythematosus

Rheumatoid factor cross-reactive idiotype (RF-CRI) is expressed in high concentrations in the sera of some patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA). To determine if RF-CRI is specifically expressed in rheumatic disease or if it is secondary to polyclonal B-cell activation, we examined sera of 23 children with SLE, 16 adolescents with infectious mononucleosis (IM), and age-matched pediatric controls for RF-CRI expression. Concentrations of RF-CRI in serum, determined by an inhibition ELISA, were 24 +/- 17 micrograms/ml (mean +/- SD) in 25 normal children, 31 +/- 17 in 16 young adults with IM, and were significantly increased, 70 +/- 80 micrograms/ml, in the 23 children with SLE (p less than 0.036). Eleven of 23 SLE patients had serum RF-CRI greater than the mean +/- 2 SD for normal children. Ten of 23 SLE sera contained IgM rheumatoid factor (RF) activity. One patient with IM had a borderline elevated RF-CRI level, and 5 IM patients had RF in their sera. The serum IgM concentrations in sera were: SLE (192 +/- 93 mg/dl) and IM (234 +/- 77 mg/dl) sera. These levels were significantly elevated compared to controls (132 +/- 44 mg/dl), p less than 0.031 for SLE and p less than 0.001 for IM, suggesting that polyclonal activation of B cells was present in SLE and IM patient groups. Increased expression of RF-CRI in the SLE patients correlated directly with high titer anti-DNA antibody values (r = 0.3965, p less than 0.05) and RF activity when human IgG (r = 0.5026, p less than 0.05) was used as the RF binding substrate and inversely with serum C3 levels (r = 0.3925, p less than 0.05). RF-CRI expression did not correlate with RF that bound rabbit (r = 0.3123, p greater than 0.05). Increased serum RF-CRI expression is not a result of polyclonal B-cell activation. RF-CRI may be selectively up-regulated in patients with SLE.

The major rheumatoid factor crossreactive idiotype and IgA rheumatoid factor in juvenile rheumatoid arthritis

One third of patients with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA) are seronegative for classic or hidden IgM rheumatoid factor (RF) yet express the major RF crossreactive idiotype (RCRI). We studied 60 children with JRA and 57 pediatric controls for IgA RF and RCRI expression to determine whether RCRI is associated with IgA RF in JRA. Twenty-one patients had IgA RF using rabbit or human IgG as substrate. Twenty-seven patients with JRA expressed high concentrations of RCRI in their sera. Only 9 of these had IgA RF. Eleven of the RCRI+ sera contained neither IgA RF nor classic or hidden IgM RF, and IgA RF was found in patients with all JRA onset subtypes. In JRA, RCRI may be expressed on either IgG RF or on parallel set antibodies without RF activity.

Burkitt's lymphoma in a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus

Patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) appear to be at increased risk for development of neoplastic disease. We describe the case of a male teenager with SLE and Burkitt's lymphoma. His presentation was similar to that of an exacerbation of his underlying SLE. We believe this to be the first case of Burkitt's lymphoma in a patient with SLE. The association of SLE and malignancy, with emphasis on lymphoproliferative states, is discussed.

Dyslipoproteinemia in murine systemic lupus erythematosus

Dyslipoproteinemia, a feature of systemic lupus erythematosus may contribute to premature atherosclerosis. In order to develop an experimental model for this dyslipoproteinemia we measured plasma concentrations of lipoproteins in juvenile NZB/W (lupus) and NZB/B (control) mice. Additionally to evaluate the effects of a diet rich in n - 3 fatty acids we measured lipoprotein concentrations in mice on normal or menhaden oil-enriched diets. The lupus mice had elevated triglycerides compared to the controls, similar to that seen in human SLE patients (161 +/- 31 vs 113 +/- 13 mg/dl, P less than 0.003). In contrast, the menhaden oil diet fed NZB/W mice had triglycerides similar to the NZB/B control fed group. In the NZB/W murine SLE model, dyslipoproteinemia is an early sign of disease as has been shown in man, therefore this model will be useful in elucidating the mechanism of dyslipoproteinemia in SLE.

Arthritis as the initial manifestation of inflammatory bowel disease in early infancy

We report a 10-month-old infant who had arthritis as the initial clinical manifestation of ulcerative colitis. Arthritis is considered to be the most common extraintestinal manifestation of IBD in adults and children. This case emphasizes that arthritis may be the earliest manifestation of IBD even in the very young infant.

Common variable hypogammaglobulinemia, recurrent Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia on intravenous gamma-globulin therapy, and natural killer deficiency

A toddler with common variable hypoimmunoglobulinemia (CVH), inflammatory bowel disease, and recurrent Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia (PCP) on intravenous gammaglobulin (IVIG) replacement was evaluated for a combined cellular immunodeficiency. He had a normal number of circulating T-cells, natural killer (NK) cells, T-cell subset percentages, and his peripheral blood mononuclear (PBM)-derived B-cell number was low. PBM mitogen blastogenesis and mixed lymphocyte reaction (MLR) were normal. MLR activated T-cells expressed class I and II MHC antigens, interleukin 2 (IL-2), and B-cell growth factor (IL-5)-related receptors. The patient's T-cells induced control B-cell maturation with pokeweed mitogen (PWM-PC), and did not suppress PWM-PC production by allogeneic PBM. Bone marrow (BM) CD19+ B-cell number varied between 10 and 44% of all PBM, and the BM B-cell-enriched fraction failed to differentiate to PWM-PC with autologous or allogeneic T-cell help. The NK activity assayed using K562 target cells was deficient, 9.2 x 7.7% (6.9-9.2%) pt, control 35.9 x 35.8% (16.3-67.2% +/- 12.8). In the presence of interferon-alpha, 800 U/ml, the patient's NK activity increased to 17.2 x 14.9% (12.6-17.2%), control 35.9 x 51.0% (36.5-72.3% +/- 12.0). The patient's cell-mediated lympholysis of HLA nonidentical, allogeneic stimulators was normal. Maintaining trough serum IgG levels above 500 mg/dl was required to suppress recurrent PCP. This functional NK deficiency may be relevant to the development of recurrent PCP in IVIG-treated CVH patients.

Expression of the major rheumatoid factor cross-reactive idiotype in juvenile rheumatoid arthritis

The major rheumatoid factor cross-reactive idiotype (RF-CRI), defined by prototypic monoclonal IgM rheumatoid factors, is expressed in high frequency by pokeweed mitogen-derived plasma cells from patients with rheumatoid arthritis who express RF in their sera. Unlike adults with rheumatoid arthritis, most patients with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis are seronegative for RF, as detected by classic IgG binding assays. We report that approximately 50% of seronegative patients with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis express the RF-CRI in high frequency among their pokeweed mitogen-derived plasma cells, and that approximately 33% of patients express the RF-CRI in high titer in their sera. The possible mechanisms for expression of an idiotypic marker of RF without expression of IgG binding activity by classic assays are discussed.

Mucha-Habermann's disease and arthritis: possible association with reactivated Epstein-Barr virus infection

We present a 12-year-old girl with skin lesions, arthritis and clinical response to tetracycline consistent with Mucha-Habermann's disease. She also showed serological evidence of reactivated Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection. We believe this represents the first such association of Mucha-Habermann's disease with EBV infection.

The major rheumatoid factor cross-reactive idiotype in rheumatic disease

The major rheumatoid factor cross-reactive idiotype (RCRI), a tertiary structure formed by both light and heavy chains, is found on 60% of all monoclonal IgM kappa RFs. To determine if the RCRI is expressed in patients with rheumatic disease, we used polyclonal rabbit anti-idiotypic antibodies to detect RCRI in sera and in pokeweed mitogen cultures of blood mononuclear cells (PBM) from patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA). We detected increased expression of RCRI+, plasma cells in PWM cultures, and in sera from these patients. We have determined that some 7S IgM molecules from RF+RA patients are RCRI+, and can bind IgG in a sensitive RF ELISA. We have also observed that the CD5+ B cell subset, which is responsible for autoantibody production, generates RCRI+ antibodies. We review these data and discuss the relationship of the idiotypic network of interacting antibodies with rheumatic disease.

Detection of the major rheumatoid factor cross-reactive idiotype precedes human IgG binding activity in a patient with polyarticular juvenile rheumatoid arthritis

A patient with polyarthritis and subcutaneous nodules was studied for expression of rheumatoid factors (RF) by numerous techniques for 5 months after presentation. Assays for RF binding human or rabbit IgG in whole sera, assays for hidden RF binding human or rabbit IgG, and assays for expression of the major RF cross-reactive idiotype (RCRI) in whole sera or by pokeweed mitogen induced plasma cells were performed (PWM-PC). In this patient, increased expression of RCRI in sera and among PWM-PC preceded detectable RF binding human IgG, and paralleled hidden RF and RF binding rabbit IgG expression.

Dyslipoproteinemia in pediatric systemic lupus erythematosus

Patients with systemic lupus erythematosus are at increased risk for premature atherosclerosis. We examined one possible etiologic factor, dyslipoproteinemia, both before and after corticosteroid therapy. We identified 2 distinct patterns of dyslipoproteinemia. One is attributable to active disease; the other is attributable, in part, to corticosteroid therapy. The dyslipoproteinemia of active disease consists of depressed high density lipoprotein cholesterol and apoprotein A-I with elevated very low density lipoprotein cholesterol and triglyceride, while the dyslipoproteinemia after corticosteroid therapy consists of increased total cholesterol, very low density lipoprotein cholesterol, and triglyceride. The possible pathophysiologic mechanisms responsible for these patterns, as well as the possible roles in premature atherosclerosis seen in systemic lupus erythematosus patients, are discussed.

Cutaneous polyarteritis nodosa and thromboses of the superior and inferior venae cavae

The case of an adolescent female with cutaneous polyarteritis nodosa and thromboses of the superior and inferior venae cavae is presented. Although thromboses of major vessels have been well described in systemic lupus erythematosus and Behçet's disease, this is only the second case of thromboses of major vessels in association with cutaneous polyarteritis nodosa. Possible pathophysiologic mechanisms are discussed.

Impaired in vivo and in vitro antibody responses to bacteriophage phi X 174 in juvenile rheumatoid arthritis

Immunologic abnormalities described in juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA) have been largely confined to mitogen or antigen driven proliferation assays. We studied antigen specific antibody production using the neoantigen bacteriophage phi X 174 in vivo and in vitro; defective responses were found in all 8 patients with JRA studied. These could not be attributed to circulating anti-T cell antibodies, but may relate to lymphocyte subset abnormalities found by 2 color analyses. These immunologic aberrations may play a direct role in the pathogenesis of JRA or, alternatively, may be a secondary event.