Prevalence and clinical significance of antinuclear antibodies in Iranian women with unexplained recurrent miscarriage

Antinuclear antibodies [ANAs] in women with recurrent miscarriage have been reported. The presence of moderate to high titers of these antibodies represents an autoimmune condition that can endanger the health of the fetus in pregnant women. In this study, we evaluated the prevalence of ANAs in Iranian women with a history of two or more unexplained abortion. 560 women with unexplained recurrent miscarriage and 560 healthy controls accounted for this study over a period of 13 months. ANAs were detected by indirect immunofluorescence technique. ANAs were detected in 74 of 560 [13.21%] patient with recurrent miscarriage, and in only 5 of 560 [0.9%] controls [p<0.001]. ANA positivity was generally found with low-positive results [1.40-1.80] in about 38% of positive cases, whereas moderate titres [1.160-1.320] and high titres [>1.640] were seen in about 46% and 16% of cases respectively. Finally evaluating of microscopic ANA patterns revealed that about half of positive cases had antibodies against DNA- histone complex, associated with systemic lupus erythematosus disease. Antinuclear antibodies are not uncommon in women with unexplained recurrent miscarriage, suggesting the possible role of an autoimmune disorder on abortion, at least in a subgroup of patients

Antiphospholipid syndrome: a clinical and laboratorial challenge / Síndrome do anticorpo antifosfolípide: um desafio clínico e laboratorial

Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is an acquired autoimmune thrombophilia characterized by the presence of a heterogeneous family of antibodies that bind to plasma proteins with affinity for phospholipid surfaces. The two major protein targets of antiphospholipid antibodies are prothrombin and β2-glycoprotein I (β2GPI). APS leads to aprothrombotic state, and it is characterized by the occurrence of arterial, venous or microvascular thrombosis or recurrent fetal loss. The diagnosis of APS is based on a set of clinical criteria and the detection of lupus anticoagulant (LA), anticardiolipin antibodies (ACA) or anti-β2GPI in plasma. Although laboratory tests are essential for APS diagnosis, these tests have limitations associated with the robustness, reproducibility and standardization. The standardization of diagnostic tests for detection of APLAs has been a challenge and a variety of results have been obtained using different commercial kits and in-house techniques. An increased sensitivity of the ELISA kits for detection of ACA effectively has contributed to APS diagnosis. However, the lack of specificity associated with a high number of false-positive results is a clinical and laboratorial challenge, since such results may lead to mistaken clinical decisions, such as prescription of oral anticoagulant, leading to the risk of hemorrhaging. Furthermore, clinicians are often unfamiliar with these tests and have difficulty interpreting them, requiring interaction between clinical and laboratory professionals in order to ensure their correct interpretation.

A síndrome do anticorpo antifosfolípide (SAAF) é uma trombofilia autoimune adquirida, caracterizada pela presença de uma família heterogênea de anticorpos que se ligam a proteínas plasmáticas com afinidade, por superfícies fosfolipídicas. As duas principais proteínas-alvo dos anticorpos antifosfolípides (AAF) são a protrombina e a β2-glicoproteína 1 (β2GP1). A SAAF está associada a um estado protrombótico e é clinicamente caracterizada pela ocorrência de trombose arterial, venosa ou microvascular ou perda fetal recorrente. O diagnóstico da SAAF é baseado em um conjunto de critérios clínicos e na detecção plasmática de anticoagulante lúpico (AL), anticorpo anticardiolipina (ACA) ou antiβ2GP1. Embora os testes laboratoriais sejam de fundamental importância para o diagnóstico da SAAF, eles apresentam limitações associadas à robustez, à reprodutibilidade e à padronização. A padronização de testes diagnósticos para a pesquisa de AAF tem sido um desafio, pois uma variedade de resultados pode ser obtida utilizando diferentes kits comerciais e técnicas in-house. Um aumento da sensibilidade dos kits de ELISA para a detecção do ACA contribuiu efetivamente para o diagnóstico da SAAF. No entanto, a falta de especificidade, associada a um número elevado de resultados falso-positivos, é um desafio clínico e laboratorial, uma vez que tais resultados podem levar a decisões clínicas erradas, como a prescrição de anticoagulante oral, levando ao risco de hemorragia. Além disso, os clínicos muitas vezes não estão familiarizados com esses testes e têm dificuldade em interpretá-los, sendo necessária a interação da clínica e dos profissionais do laboratório para assegurar sua correta interpretação.

Avaliação da agregação plaquetária em presença de anticorpos antifosfolípides: anti-β2GP1 e anticardiolipina / Evaluation of platelet aggregation in the presence of antiphospholipid antibodies: anti-β2GP1 and anticardiolipin

INTRODUÇÃO: A síndrome antifosfolípide (SAF) é uma condição autoimune que apresenta fenômenos trombóticos arteriais e venosos de repetição além de complicações obstétricas. Sua patogênese está associada à presença de anticorpos antifosfolípides e/ou anti-β2 glicoproteína I (β2GPI) que aparentemente modificam o efeito anticoagulante da β2GPI. A dimerização da β2GPI induzida por anticorpos parece estar relacionada à indução da agregação plaquetária contribuindo para o estado trombofílico na SAF. OBJETIVOS: O presente trabalho objetiva demonstrar a influencia dos anticorpos antifosfolípides em testes de agregação plaquetária com diferentes agonistas (ADP, colágeno e adrenalina). MÉTODOS: Foram analisados testes de agregação de plaquetas normais com diferentes agonistas (ADP, colágeno, adrenalina) na presença de soro contendo anticorpos antifosfolípides em diferentes concentrações. RESULTADOS: As análises obtidas mostraram uma inibição significativa (P < 0,05) nas curvas de agregação plaquetária induzidas por ADP e adrenalina quando comparadas ao controle. O paradoxo entre o estado protrombótico e a presença de autoanticorpos que in vitro apresentam atividade anticoagulante foi demonstrado na literatura, dificultando o entendimento patofisiológico da síndrome antifosfolípide. CONCLUSÃO: Os resultados obtidos demonstraram que o soro rico em anticorpos anticardiolipina e anti-β2GPI, ambas da classe IgG, interferem em testes de curvas de agregação plaquetária.

INTRODUCTION: The antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is an autoimmune condition characterized by recurrent arterial and venous thrombosis, besides obstetric complications. The pathogenesis is associated with the presence of antiphospholipid and/or anti-b2-glicoprotein I (anti-b2GPI) antibodies that appear to change the anticoagulant activity of b2GPI. Antibody-induced dimerization of b2GPI seems to be related to the induction of platelet aggregation, contributing to the development of thrombosis in APS. OBJECTIVES: The objective of the present study is to demonstrate the influence of antiphospholipid antibodies in platelet aggregation tests with different agonists (ADP, collagen, and adrenaline). METHODS: We analyzed platelet aggregation tests with different agonists (ADP, collagen, adrenalin) when normal platelets were exposed to serum with different concentrations of antiphospholipid antibodies. RESULTS: Results demonstrated a significant inhibition in adrenalin- and ADP-induced platelet aggregation curves (P < 0.05) in all antibody concentrations tested when compared to the control. The paradox between the prothrombotic state and the presence of autoantibodies that show anticoagulant activity in vitro was demonstrated in the literature, making it difficult to understand the pathophysiologic mechanism of the antiphospholipid syndrome. CONCLUSION: Results showed that anticardiolipin and anti-b2GPI antibodies-rich serum, both of which belonging to the IgG class, can interfere with platelet aggregation curves.

Sneddon's syndrome: case report and review of its relationship with antiphospholipid syndrome / Síndrome de Sneddon: relato de caso e revisão sobre a relação com a síndrome do anticorpo antifosfolipídio

The Sneddon's syndrome is a rare disorder characterized by the occurrence of cerebrovascular disease associated with livedo reticularis. The antiphospholipid syndrome is the most frequent type of acquired thrombophilia, defined by the occurrence of thrombosis or pregnancy morbidity in the presence of persistently positive antiphospholipid antibodies. Approximately 80% of Sneddon's syndrome patients have an antiphospholipid antibody marker. These antibodies may play a pathogenetic role in some cases of Sneddon's syndrome, and many authors consider these two syndromes as the same entity. Although clinical features of antiphospholipid syndrome and Sneddon's syndrome may overlap, there is a distinction between clinical and laboratory evidence suggesting that these two entities are different diseases. A recent finding of coagulopathies, including elevated levels of coagulation factor VII, decreased levels of protein S, and activated protein C in Sneddon's syndrome patients suggested a possible biological link between the vasculopathy and a primary coagulopathy. Moreover, the clinical course seems to be progressive in Sneddon's syndrome patients and includes increase of disability and cognitive deterioration, more arterial involvement, and the antiphospholipid syndrome shows a more benign course. Both syndromes share clinical and laboratory features, and whether Sneddon's syndrome represents a spectrum of antiphospholipid syndrome remains unclear. Sneddon's syndrome patients have a worse prognosis and may represent a subgroup of patients who demands more rigorous follow-up. It is important to recognize the Sneddon's syndrome, particularly because stroke episodes may be prevented through appropriate treatment.

A síndrome de Sneddon é um distúrbio raro caracterizado pela ocorrência de doença cerebrovascular associada a livedo reticular. A síndrome do anticorpo antifosfolipídio é o tipo mais frequente de trombofilia, definida pela ocorrência de trombose ou morbidade gestacional na presença de anticorpos antifosfolípides persistentemente positivos. Aproximadamente 80% dos pacientes com síndrome de Sneddon apresentam um marcador de anticorpo antifosfolipídio. Esses anticorpos podem exercer um papel fisiopatológico em alguns casos de síndrome de Sneddon, e muitos autores consideram essa síndrome e a síndrome do anticorpo antifosfolipídio a mesma entidade. Apesar de os quadros clínicos das suas síndromes poderem se sobrepor, há evidência clínica e laboratorial distintiva, sugerindo que as duas entidades são doenças diferentes. Um achado recente de coagulopatia, incluindo níveis elevados do fator VII de coagulação, diminuição dos níveis da proteína S, e proteína C ativada em pacientes com síndrome de Sneddon, sugeriu uma possível ligação biológica entre a vasculopatia e coagulopatia primária. Além disso, o curso clínico pareceu ser progressivo em pacientes com síndrome de Sneddon, visto que há aumento de incapacidade e deterioração cognitiva, além de maior envolvimento arterial, enquanto a síndrome do anticorpo antifosfolipídio apresenta um curso mais benigno. Ambas as síndromes compartilham características clínicas e laboratoriais; até qual ponto a síndrome de Sneddon representa um espectro da síndrome do anticorpo antifosfolipídio permanece desconhecido. Os pacientes com a primeira síndrome apresentam pior prognóstico e podem representar um subgrupo de pacientes que requer um seguimento mais rigoroso. É importante reconhecer a síndrome de Sneddon já que os episódios de acidente vascular cerebral podem ser prevenidos com a terapia apropriada.

Anticorpos antinucleossomo e síndrome antifosfolipídica: estudo observacional / Antinucleosome antibodies and primary antiphospholipid syndrome: an observational study

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a associação entre a presença de anticorpos antinucleossomo (anti-NCS) e a síndrome antifosfolipídica primária (SAFP) e o posterior desenvolvimento de lúpus eritematoso sistêmico (LES). MATERIAIS E MÉTODOS: Trinta e seis mulheres com o diagnóstico de SAFP foram avaliadas prospectivamente para manifestações de doenças reumáticas autoimunes e para a presença de anticorpos antifosfolípides, anticorpos antinucleares e anti-NCS/cromatina. RESULTADOS: Após um período médio de seguimento de 45,7 meses, anticorpos anti-NCS/cromatina foram detectados em apenas uma paciente (2,8%), que desenvolveu manifestações de LES tais como poliartrite, linfopenia, neurite óptica, lesões compatíveis com esclerose múltipla em substância branca cerebral e perfil de autoanticorpos altamente sugestivo de LES. CONCLUSÃO: A frequência de anticorpos anti-NCS/cromatina é baixa em pacientes com SAFP, e sua presença pode associar-se ao desenvolvimento de manifestações de LES.

OBJECTIVE: To study the association of anti-nucleosome (anti-NCS) antibodies in primary antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) and the development of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) during follow-up. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty-six women with primary APS were evaluated prospectively for clinical features of systemic autoimmune diseases and for the presence of antiphospholipid antibodies, antinuclear antibodies and anti-NCS/chromatin antibodies. RESULTS: After a mean follow-up period of 45.7 months, anti-NCS/chromatin antibodies were detected in only one patient (2.8%), who developed features of SLE including polyarthritis, lymphopenia, optic neuritis, multiple sclerosis-like lesions, and an autoantibody profile suggestive of SLE. CONCLUSION: The frequency of anti-NCS/chromatin antibodies in primary APS patients is very low, and they may be associated with the development of SLE manifestations.

Uso de la heparina de bajo peso molecular y aspirina en una paciente con síndrome antifosfolípido y pérdida gestacional recurrente / Use of low molecular weight heparin and aspirin in a patient with antiphospholipidsyndrome and recurrent pregnancy loss

Introducción: La pérdida gestacional recurrente (PGR) es una patología frecuente, que causa gran impacto en las parejas conllevando frustración, ansiedad, depresión, gastos excesivos y hasta rupturas de la relación de pareja. Su etiología es multicausal y frecuentemente no se logra determinar . Se presenta el caso de una paciente con PGR quien luego de seis pérdidas gestacionales, en el séptimo embarazo se detectaron anticuerpos antifosfolípidos altos, recibiendo tratamiento de tromboprofilaxis doble hasta la semana 32, obteniéndose un producto pretérmino vivo y sano que evolucionó satisfactoriamente. Se discuten dificultades para la precisión diagnóstica y las modalidades de tratamiento descritos. [Salazar HA, Lancheros EA, Becerra CH. Uso de heparina de bajo peso molecular y aspirina en una paciente con síndrome antifosfolípido y pér-dida gestacional recurrente. MedUNAB 201 1;14(3):188-192].

Recurrent pregnancy lost (RPL) is a common condition that causes great impact on partners leading frustration, anxiety , depression, excessive spending and even breaks in the relationship. Its etiology is multifactorial and often can not be determined. This paper describes a case of a patient who after six RPL losses, in the seventh pregnancy is detected high positive antiphospholipid antibodies. She receive thromboprophylaxis twice a week until 32 weeks of gestational age, produced an healthy preterm newborn with a good prognosis. We discuss difficulties in the diagnostic accuracy and treatment modalities described. [Salazar HA, Lancheros EA, Becerra CH. Use of low molecular weight heparin and aspirin in a patient with antiphospholipidsyndrome and recurrent pregnancy loss. MedUNAB 2011;14(3):188-192].

Efecto de los anticuerpos antifosfolipídicos en la formación y degradación de la malla de fibrina en pacientes con aborto recurrente / Effect of antiphospholipid antibodies on the formation and lysis of fibrin network in patients with recurrent miscarriage

En el presente trabajo se estudió el proceso de formación y disolución de la malla de fibrina y la generación de plasmina en un grupo de pacientes con aborto recurrente (AR) debido a la presencia de anticuerpos antifosfolipídicos (N= 10), mujeres con AR sin el síndrome antifosfolipídico (SAF) (N= 6) y se comparó con un grupo de mujeres sanas (N= 8). Del grupo de pacientes estudiadas con SAF, nueve fueron positivas para anticuerpos anticardiolipina (aCL), cinco para la anti-b2-glicoproteína I (anti-b2GPI), cuatro para ambos anticuerpos, una para anticuerpos antiprotrombina (aPT) y anticoagulante lúpico (AL). El proceso de formación de la fibrina y su disolución fue estudiado por turbidimetría y la generación de plasmina mediante sustrato cromogénico S2251. Las curvas de polimerización de la(s) paciente(s) con AR sin SAF y AL presentaron un incremento en la pendiente y turbidez final, comparado con las del grupo control de mujeres sanas. La velocidad de disolución del coágulo fue mayor en la paciente con AL (21 ± 0) 10-4 DDO/seg y en las AR sin SAF (19,6 ± 5,7) 10-4 DDO/seg, comparado con el grupo control (14,5 ± 2,8) 10-4 DDO/seg. La generación de plasmina estuvo incrementada solamente en las AR sin SAF (85 ± 24%) comparado con 52 ± 3% en el grupo control, p= 0,005. Los cambios observados en el proceso de polimerización y fibrinólisis de la(s) paciente(s) con AR sin SAF y AL pudieran estar relacionados con el incremento en los niveles de fibrinógeno, mientras que los de la generación de plasmina con la entidad mórbida.

The present work was intended to study the process of fibrin formation and lysis and plasmin generation in a group of patients with recurrent miscarriage (RM), due to the presence of antiphospholipid antibodies (N= 10); as well as in women with RM without the antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) (N= 6), compared with those of a group of healthy women (N= 8). In the group of patients with APS, nine were positive for antibodies against cardiolipin (aCL), five for anti-b2-glycoprotein I (anti-b2GPI), four for both antibodies, and one for antibodies against prothrombin (aPT) and lupus anticoagulant (LA). Fibrin formation and lysis was followed by turbidity and plasmin generation using chromogenic substrate S2251. The polymerization curves from RM patients without APS and the LA patient showed an increased slope and maximum turbidity compared to those of the control group. The speed of lysis was higher in the LA patient (21 ± 0) 10-4 DOD/seg and the RM patients without APS (19.6 ± 5.7) 10-4 DDO/seg, compared to that of the control group (14.5 ± 2.8) 10-4 DDO/seg. Plasmin generation increased only in RM patients without APS (85 ± 24%) against the control group (52 ± 3%), p= 0.005. The changes observed in the fibrin polymerization and lysis process of women with RM without APS and LA seem to be related to their higher fibrinogen levels, while the increased plasmin generation was related to the patients´ morbidity.

Reunión clínica inter-hospitales: síndrome antifosfolípidos catastrófico, un cuadro de microangiopatía / Catastrophic antiphospholipid syndrome, a case of microangiopathy

Se presenta el caso de una mujer joven, sin antecedentes de importancia, que muestra trombosis de grandes y pequeños vasos. A pesar del tratamiento con anticoagulación y corticoides en dosis altas, desarrolla necrosis cutánea y una importante respuesta inflamatoria sistémica con disfunción orgánica múltiple, por lo que .se le indicó plasmaféresis y, posteriormente, rituximab, con buena respuesta. Se discute el síndrome antifosfolípidos con énfasis en los anticuerpos antiprotrombina y la patogenia de la microangiopatía en el síndrome antifosfolípidos catastróficos.

We present the case of a young, otherwise healthy woman, who developed thrombosis of large and small vessels and capillaries. Despite anticoagulation treatment and high doses of glucocorticoids, she developed cutaneous necrosis and systemic inflammatory response with multiple organ dysfunction. Plasmapheresis and rituximab were administered with good response. We discuss the antiphospholipid syndrome, with emphasis on antiprothrombin antibodies and the pathogenesis of microangiopathy in antiphospholipid syndrome.

Polimorfismo Val247Leu do gene β2-glicoproteína 1 pode justificar a gênese de anticorpos antiβ2GP1 e síndrome do anticorpo antifosfolípide na hanseníase multibacilar / Val247Leu polymorphism of β2 glycoprotein 1 gene may justify the genesis of anti β2GP1 antibodies and Antiphospholipid Syndrome in Multibacillary Leprosy

FUNDAMENTOS - Anticorpos antifosfolípides (AAF), como antiβ2GP1 (β2-glicoproteína 1), são descritos na hanseníase multibacilar (MB) sem, contudo, caracterizar a síndrome do anticorpo antifosfolípide (SAF), constituída por fenômenos tromboembólicos (FTE). A mutação Val247Leu no V domínio da β2GP1 - substituição da leucina por valina - expõe epítopos crípticos com consequente formação de anticorpos antiβ2GP1. OBJETIVO: Avaliar a associação do polimorfismo Val247Leu do gene β2GP1 com títulos de anticorpos antiβ2GP1 na hanseníase. MÉTODO: O polimorfismo Val247Leu foi detectado por PCR-RFLP, e os títulos de anticorpos antiβ2GP1, por Elisa. RESULTADOS: O genótipo Val/Val estatisticamente predominou no grupo de hansênicos, em relação ao controle. Embora maiores títulos de anticorpos antiβ2GP1 IgM estivessem alocados no grupo MB com genótipos Val/Val e Val/Leu, não houve diferença estatística em relação ao genótipo Leu/Leu. Dos sete pacientes MB com FTE, quatro apresentaram heterozigose, e três Val/Val homozigose. CONCLUSÃO: A prevalência do genótipo Val/Val no grupo de hansênicos pode justificar parcialmente a presença de anticorpos antiβ2GP1 na forma MB. A heterozigose ou homozigose Val/Val nos sete pacientes com hanseníase MB e FTE corroboram a implicação de expressão fenotípica anômala da β2GPl e formação de anticorpos antiβ2GPl, com consequente FTE e SAF.

BACKGROUND - Multibacillary (MB) leprosy may be manifested with antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL), among which anti-β2GP1 (β2-glycoprotein 1). High titers of aPL are associated with APS (Antiphospholipid Syndrome), characterized by thrombosis. The mutation Val247Leu in the domain V of β2GP1 exposes hidden epitopes with consequent development of anti-β2GP1 antibodies. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the Val247Leu polymorphism of β2GP1 gene and its correlation with anti-β2GP1 antibodies in leprosy patients. METHODS: The Val247Leu polymorphism was performed by PCR-RFLP and anti-β2GP1 antibodies were measured by ELISA. RESULTS: The genotypic Val/Val was more prevalent in the leprosy group, compared to controls. Regarding the 7 MB patients with APS, four presented heterozygosis and three, Val/Val homozygosis. Although higher titrations of anti-β2GP1 IgM antibodies were seen in MB leprosy group with Val/Leu and Val/Val genotypes, there was no statistical difference when compared to Leu/Leu genotype. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of Val/Val homozygosis in leprosy group can partially justify the presence of anti-β2GP1 IgM antibodies in MB leprosy. The description of heterozygosis and Val/Val homozygosis in 7 patients with MB leprosy and thrombosis corroborates the implication of anomalous phenotype expression of β2GP1 and development of anti-β2GP1 antibodies, with consequent thrombosis and APS.

Anticuerpos antifosfolípidos. Valoración clínica actual / Antiphospholipid antibodies. Current clinical assessment

El síndrome anticuerpo antifosfolipido (SAF) constituye una enfermedad autoinmune que se caracteriza por presentar trombosis vascular y abortos recurrentes, asociada a la elevación persistente de anticuerpos antifosfolípidos séricos. Los eventos trombóticos pueden ocurrir tanto en las arterias y venas como en la microcirculación. Las manifestaciones clínicas dermatológicas más frecuentes son livedo reticularis, vasculitis livedoide y úlceras, entre otras. En este trabajo se actualizan los conceptos de su etiología y los criterios diagnósticos corregidos desde el año 2004. Además se plantea un algoritmo diagnóstico y las pautas de tratamiento actuales.

Antiphospholipid antibodies and multiple organ failure in critically ill cancer patients

OBJECTIVES: To describe the clinical outcomes and thrombotic events in a series of critically ill cancer patients positive for antiphospholipid (aPL) antibodies. DESIGN: Retrospective case series study. SETTING: Medical-surgical oncologic intensive care unit (ICU). PATIENTS AND PARTICIPANTS: Eighteen patients with SIRS/sepsis and multiple organ failure (MOF) and positive for aPL antibodies, included over a 10-month period. INTERVENTIONS: None MEASUREMENTS AND RESULTS: aPL antibodies and coagulation parameters were measured up to 48 hours after the occurrence of acrocyanosis or arterial/venous thrombotic events. When current criteria for the diagnosis of aPL syndrome were applied, 16 patients met the criteria for "probable" and two patients had a definite diagnosis of APL syndrome in its catastrophic form (CAPS). Acrocyanosis, arterial events and venous thrombosis were present in eighteen, nine and five patients, respectively. Sepsis, cancer and major surgery were the main precipitating factors. All patients developed MOF during the ICU stay, with a hospital mortality rate of 72 percent (13/18). Five patients were discharged from the hospital. There were three survivors at 90 days of follow-up. New measurements of lupus anticoagulant (LAC) antibodies were performed in these three survivors and one patient still tested positive for these antibodies. CONCLUSIONS: In this small series of patients, we observed a high frequency of auto-antibodies and micro- and macro-vascular thrombotic events in critically ill cancer patients. The coexistence of sepsis or SIRS and aPL antibodies was often associated with MOF and death. More studies are necessary to determine the pathophysiological significance of antiphospholipid antibodies in severely ill cancer patients.

Inmunopatogenia del síndrome antifosfolípido / Immunopathogenesis of the antiphospholipid syndrome

El síndrome antifosfolípido (SAF) es una enfermedad autoinmune sistémica que se caracteriza por la presencia de fenómenos trombóticos y/o morbilidad durante el embarazo, asociado a la producción de autoanticuerpos dirigidos contra proteínas que reconocen fosfolípidos aniónicos o contra el complejo fosfolípido/proteína denominados anticuerpos antifosfolípidos (aPL). Dichos anticuerpos serían marcadores de enfermedad y además tendrían una relación directa en la génesis de ésta. El conocimiento respecto al origen de dichos anticuerpos, sus especificidades antigénicas y su rol en la inmunopatogenia del SAF son puntos importantes que son motivo actual de investigación y que permitirán a futuro el desarrollo de nuevas armas terapéuticas.

The antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is a systemic autoimmune disease characterized by the presence of thrombotic and /or morbid phenomena during pregnancy, associated to the production of autoantibodies directed against proteins that recognize anionic phospholipids, or against the phospholipid/protein complex known as antiphospholipid antibodies. Said antibodies seem to be disease markers and would have a direct relation in its genesis. Knowledge with respect to the origin of said antibodies, antigenic specificities and its role in APS immunopathogenesis are important points that are currently being investigated and will give way to the future development of new therapeutic instruments.

autoimmune diseases manifested by production of autoantibodies: the autoantigens identified by random peptide library

Phage-displayed random peptide libraries [RPL] provide a powerful technique for identification, structural and functional analysis of ligands for many different target molecules, including, antibodies, receptors or other proteins. This strategy has been verified to be an effective tool for research in immunology and successfully has been used to determine the target sequence for monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies. The peptide library approach provides great promise for characterization of ligands with no prior information concerning antibody specificity. This would allow the recognition of candidate antigens involved in initiation or perpetuation of autoimmune diseases. This technology also offers the potential for new therapeutic opportunities, production of diagnostic reagents, or even development of effective new vaccines. This review focuses on studies regarding the identification of autoantigens recognized by antibodies in autoimmune diseases using phage-display peptide libraries

Avances sobre síndrome antifosfolípido / Advances in antiphospholipid syndrome

El Síndrome antifosfolípido (SAF) es una trombofilia adquirida, que se caracteriza por presentar eventos trombóticos recurrentes y complicaciones obstétricas en presencia de anticuerpos antifosfolípidos (aFL), los cuales son pesquisados por pruebas de laboratorio como anticoagulante lúpico y anticuerpos anticardiolipina. En esta revisión se muestran los aspectos más relevantes del SAF, destacando los avances en fisiopatología y criterios diagnósticos.

Anti-beta2- glycoprotein I autoantibodies more correlates with strokes in antiphospholipid syndrome

To determine the significance of testing for anti-beta-2 glycoprotein I dependent [abeta2-GPI] among stroke patients of antiphospholipid syndrome [APS]. Fifty selected patients with strokes and 30 healthy individuals were tested for lgG isotype of anticardiolipin [aCL], abeta2-GPI, and antiphosphatidyl serine [aPS] autoantibodies. The study was conducted in the Postgraduate Laboratory Center, College of Medicine, and University of Dohuk, Iraq during April 2005. The indirect solid phase enzyme-linked immuno-sorbent assay [ELISA] technique was used for the detection of lgG aCL, abeta2-GPI, and aPS. The studied cases and controls were under 50 years of age and had no recognizable risk factors. One or more of the tested APLAs were detected in 14/50 [28%] of cases with stroke. The lgG aCL was detected in 11/50 [22%], IgG abeta2-GPI in 14/50 [28%], and IgG aPS in 9/50 [18%] of the studied patients. However, IgG aCL was detected in 2/30 [6.7%] of controls with absence of other antiphospholipids antibodies [APLAs]. All IgG aPS positive cases [9/14, 18%] were found to be positive for IgG abeta2-GPI and IgG aCL markers. Moreover, all IgG aCL positive cases [11/50, 22%] were positive for IgG abeta2-GPI marker. On the other hand, IgG abeta2-GPI as a sole marker was detected in another 3 positive APLAs cases with [3/14, 21.4%]. In this study, IgG abeta2-GPI autoantibodies were found to correlate more with stroke cases of APS than other APLAs. These findings necessitate testing for this marker and ascertain the evidence accumulating which would assign a central role played by abeta2-GPI in strokes of APS

Síndrome Antifosfolípido: morbilidad y evolución de una cohorte de pacientes del Hospital Pablo Tobón Uribe de Medellín-Colombia / Utility of a questionnaire of prognostic factors in the evaluation of patients with rheumatoid arthritis

Objetivo: describir las manifestaciones clínicas y de laboratorio del síndrome antifosfolípido (SAF) en una cohorte de pacientes, y explorar asociaciones entre el perfil de autoanticuerpos y el desarrollo de complicaciones del SAF. Métodos: se realizó un estudio analítico de corte transversal en pacientes con criterios de Sapporo para SAF. Resultados: un total de 62 pacientes se incluyeron, con una distribución por sexo del 83,9 por ciento mujeres y 16,1 por ciento hombres con una mediana de la edad al inicio del estudio de 28 años. De los criterios de SAF la trombosis venosa fue el criterio clínico más frecuente y los anticuerpos anticardiolipina fueron la manifestación inmunológica más común. El SAF primario (SAFP) se presentó en 32,3 por ciento de los pacientes y el SAF secundario (SAFS) se presentó en el 67,7 por ciento de ellos. Los pacientes con SAFP tenían una enfermedad de inicio más tardío y mayor número de pérdidas fetales que pacientes con SAFS. La recurencia de los eventos trombóticos fue mayor para los venosos que para los arteriales. Conclusiones: el SAF puede presentarse con un amplio espectro de manifestaciones clínicas y comprometer cualquier órgano de la economía. La asociación con otras enfermedades autoinmunes puede crear subgrupos de la enfermedad. Se encontraron algunas diferencias clínicas y pronósticas entreSAPS y PAPS

Activated protein C resistance and lupus anticoagulant activity induced by plasma and purified monospecific human IgG anti-β2-glycoprotein-I antibodies / Resistencia a la proteína C activada y actividad de anticoagulante lúpico inducidas por plasma y por anticuerpos purificados humanos del IgG anti β2-glicoproteína I

ABSTRACT Introduction. We investigated the activated protein C resistance (APCR) phenotype and the lupus anticoagulant (LA), activity induced by anti-β2-glycoprotein-I (anti-β2GP-I) antibodies. Patients and methods. We studied plasma and sera samples from 29 patients with persistently positive anti-β2GP-I: 22 with thrombosis (12 with primary APS, 10 with APS secondary to SLE) and seven without thrombosis (all with SLE); 25 healthy subjects were studied as controls. We detected anticardiolipin antibodies (ACA); IgG (and its subclasses) and IgM anti-β2GP-I, on irradiated and non-irradiated plates by ELISA. APCR was assessed by the activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT)-based assay and by the modified test. The FV Leiden mutation was studied by PCR. LA determination included screening and confirmatory dRVVT. Serum anti-β2GP-I were affinity purified on sepharose columns and their isotype, subclass, and reactivity against various antigens were studied by ELISA. Results. We found that titers of IgG anti-β2GP-I on irradiated plates were higher than on non-irradiated plates (p = 0.002), IgG2 was the predominant subclass. Fifteen patients (13 with thrombosis) had LA and 15 (also 13 with thrombosis) induced the APCR phenotype. Eleven (all with thrombosis) had both. Two patients were heterozygous for the Leiden mutation. Two purified antibodies, monospecific for β2GP-I, induced an in vitro APCR phenotype and LA activity. Conclusions. Our results seem to indicate that the inhibition of the APC anticoagulant function by IgG2 anti-β2GP-I with LA activity may be one of the responsible mechanisms of thrombophilia in patients with APS.

Introducción. Investigamos la resistencia a la proteína C activada (RPCA) y la actividad de anticoagulante lápico (AL), inducidas por anticuerpos anti-β2-glicoproteína-I (anti-β2GP-I). Pacientes y métodos. Estudiamos los plasmas y sueros persistentemente positivos para anti-β2GP-I de 29 pacientes: 22 tuvieron trombosis (12 con síndrome de antifosfolípidos (SAF) primario y 10 con SAF secundario a lupus erítematoso generalizado (LEG)) y siete sin trombosis (todos con LEG). Como controles estudiamos 25 sueros de personas clínicamente sanas. Detectamos anticuerpos anticardiolipina, anti-β2GP-I IgG (y sus subclases) e IgM por ELISA en placas irradiadas y no irradiadas. Evaluamos la RPCA por medio del tiempo parcial de tromboplastina activada y por la prueba modificada. Estudiamos la mutación FV de Leiden por PCR y el anticoagulante lápico con el método de dRVVT screening y confirmatorio. Después de purificar los anti-β2GP-I séricos con una columna de antígeno unido a sefarosa, analizamos por ELISA sus isotipos, subclases y reactividad contra β2GP-I y algunos fosfolípidos. Resultados. Los títulos de anti-β2GP-I IgG fueron más altos en placas irradiadas que en no irradiadas (p = 0.002), predominó la subclase IgG2. Quince plasmas (13 de pacientes con trombosis) tuvieron AL y 15 (13 también de pacientes con trombosis) indujeron el fenotipo de RPCA. Once plasmas (todos de pacientes con trombosis) indujeron ambas actividades. Dos pacientes fueron heterocigotos para la mutación de Leiden. Dos anticuerpos purificados monoespecíficos para β2GP-I indujeron el fenotipo de la RPCA y la actividad de AL in vitro. Conclusiones. Nuestros resultados sugieren que la RPCA, inducida por los anti-β2GP-I que concomitantemente tienen actividad de AL, puede tener implicaciones patogénicas en la trombofílía del SAF.

Síndrome antifosfolípido catastrófico (SAFC): presentación de un caso clínico / Catastrophic antiphospholipid syndrome (CAPS): presentation of a clinical case

El síndrome antifosfolípidos (SAFL) es una trombofilia adquirida auto inmune, caracterizada por la ocurrencia de trombosis arteriales y/o venosas y abortos recurrentes. En raras ocasiones este cuadro puede tener una presentación catastrófica, con compromiso de microangiopatía y un curso grave de muy alta mortalidad. La frecuencia de este cuadro es menor al 1 por ciento de los SAFL, y cuando ocurre el compromiso de tres órganos se denomina síndrome antifosfolípido catastrófico (SAFC). Presentamos el caso de un paciente que debuta con una insuficiencia renal de rápida progresión, asociado a trombocitopenia y accidentes vasculares, en el cual se demuestra la presencia de anticuerpos antifosfolípidos. Se maneja con plasmaféresis, anticoagulación e inmunosupresión con excelente respuesta. Este caso es de interés por presentar un diagnóstico infrecuente de insuficiencia renal, cuyo manejo oportuno y agresivo puede cambiar el pronóstico sombrío publicado en la literatura.

Anticoagulante lúpico en enfermedades autoinmunes / Lupus anticoagulant in autoimmune diseases

El tromboembolismo venoso es una complicación reconocida en diferentes enfermedades autoinmunes. Se ha establecido que la detección del anticoagulante lúpico (AL) y posiblemente los anticuerpos anticardiolipina (AAC) tipo Ig G en título alto y medio, ayuden a identificar pacientes con riesgo de trombosis. Estudiamos el AL en 81 pacientes con enfermedades autoinmunes: 25 pacientes con lupus eritematoso sistémico (LES), 28 pacientes con púrpura trombocitopénica idiopática (PTI), 15 con anemia hemolítica autoinmune (AHAI) y 13 que se incluyeron en el grupo de otras enfermedades, que comprendían vasculitis cutánea de pequeños vasos, enfermedad mixta del tejido conectivo, artritis reumatoidea y esclerodermia. El AL se encontró en el 19,7 por ciento del total de los estudiados: 16 por ciento en pacientes con LES, 21,4 por ciento en pacientes con PTI y 40 por ciento en la AHAI. En el grupo de otras enfermedades no se halló ningún paciente con el AL positivo. El 56,3 por ciento de los pacientes con AL positivo presentaron alguna manifestación atribuible al síndrome antifosfolípido (SAF)