Granulomatosis with polyangiitis with nasal symptoms as the first clinical manifestation: clinical analysis of 18 cases / 中华耳鼻咽喉头颈外科杂志

Objective: To analyze and summarize the diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) with nasal symptoms as the first clinical manifestation. Methods: The data of 18 patients of GPA with nasal mucosal symptoms as the first clinical manifestation from the Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University between 2005 and 2019 was collected, including 8 males and 10 females, aged from 5 to 68 years. Nasal endoscopy, imaging examination, laboratory examination, immunological and histopathological examination of nasal mucosa were completed. All patients were treated with glucocorticoid combined with cyclophosphamide and were followed up for 2 to 15 years. Descriptive statistical method was used for analysis. Results: All the 18 patients had the nasal mucosal symptoms as the first clinical manifestation, including nasal obstruction, running nose and epistaxis. Nasal endoscopy showed swelling, erosion, scab and bleeding of nasal mucosa, and 6 cases had nasal septal perforation. Nasal sinus CT scan showed high density shadow of sinus, as well as hyperostosis and osteosclerosis. CT imaging features of pulmonary showed nodular lesion or patchy infiltration in 12 patients and cavitation was found in 6 cases. Laboratory results showed that 13 cases were positive for anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA), and 5 cases were negative. During follow-up period, thirteen patients were symptomatic controlled and survived; two patients died of disease progression; one patient gave up treatment and died; two patients were lost to follow-up. Conclusions: Nasal symptoms are the first clinical manifestation of GPA. Early diagnosis and early treatment with glucocorticoid combined with cyclophosphamide can effectively improve the survival rate.

Eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (Churg-Strauss syndrome)

SUMMARY Churg-Strauss syndrome, Eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA), is a systemic vasculitis that affects small- to medium-sized vessels. It is rare and part of the Anti-neutrophil cytoplasm antibody-associated vasculitis (ANCA) group. We present a 37-year-old man, with a previous history of asthma, that was sent to the ED due to 2 weeks of productive cough, occasional dyspnea on exertion, fever (one week), asthenia, and anorexia. Upon physical examination, he was subfebrile and tachycardic. He had leukocytosis (17.00 x10^9/L) and eosinophilia of 20.0 % (3.4 X10^9/L), creatinine level of 1.5 mg/dL, subtle elevation on liver function tests and CRP of 10.82mg/dL. On Chest X-Ray, there was infiltrate on the right pulmonary base. Due to a strong suspicion of EGPA, he was started on 80mg of prednisolone from admission. ANCA MPO was positive, with the remaining auto-immune study negative. He underwent Thorax CT (under corticotherapy) without relevant changes, as well as bronchoalveolar lavage, without macroscopic signs of alveolar hemorrhage. Because of active urinary sediment, nephrotic proteinuria (6.5g/24h), and acute renal failure he underwent a renal biopsy, which revealed pauci-immune crescentic glomerulonephritis, with predominantly acute findings (in the context of ANCA-MPO Vasculitis - EGPA). After the biopsy, he received three 1g methylprednisolone pulses and was started on Cyclophosphamide. He remained asymptomatic and renal function was restored. This case highlights the importance of integrating all findings in one clinical scenario to prevent a more complex disease diagnosis, with a specific treatment, from being missed.

RESUMO A vasculite de Churg-Strauss, granulomatose eosinofílica com poliangeíte (EGPA), é uma vasculite sistêmica que afeta vasos de pequeno e médio calibre. É rara e pertence ao grupo de vasculites associadas a anticorpos anticitoplasma de neutrófilos (Anca). Apresenta-se um homem de 37 anos, com antecedentes de asma, que recorre ao SU por tosse produtiva com dois meses de evolução, dispneia ocasional em esforço, febre (uma semana de evolução), astenia e anorexia. Ao exame objetivo apresentava-se subfebril e taquicárdico. Analiticamente com leucocitose (17,00 x10^9/L) e eosinofilia de 20,0% (3,4 X10^9/L), creatinina de 1,5 mg/dL, discreta alteração das provas de função hepática e PCR de 10,82 mg/dL. Na radiografia de tórax objetivava-se infiltrado na base pulmonar direita. Por elevada suspeita de EGPA, iniciou prednisolona 80 mg desde a admissão. Anca MPO+, com restante estudo de autoimunidade negativo. Realizou TC tórax (sob corticoterapia) sem alterações de relevo, bem como lavado bronco-alveolar, sem sinais macroscópicos de hemorragia alveolar. Por sedimento urinário ativo, proteinúria na faixa nefrótica (6,56 g/24h) e lesão renal aguda, realizou biópsia renal que revelou glomerulonefrite crescêntica pauci-imune, com achados predominantemente agudos (no contexto de Vasculite Anca-MPO - EGPA). Após biópsia, realizou três pulsos de 1 g de metilprednisolona e iniciou ainda ciclofosfamida. Ficou assintomático e com recuperação da função renal. Este caso realça a importância de integração de todos os achados num só cenário a fim de evitar que escape o diagnóstico de uma doença mais complexa e com um tratamento específico.

Granulomatosis de Wegener mimetizando una lesión tumoral de vértice de pulmón. Reporte de un caso clínico y revisión de la literatura / Wegener's granulomatosis mimicking a tumor of the lung vertex. Report of a clinical case and review of the literature

La granulomatosis con poliangeítis antes denominada con el epónimo de granulomatosis de Wegener, clasifica entre las vasculitis sistémicas, de causa desconocida, que afecta a los vasos de pequeño y mediano calibre. Se caracteriza por la afectación del aparato respiratorio en su tracto superior, pulmones, así como a los riñones, aunque puede afectar a otros órganos y sistemas del organismo humano. Los anticuerpos anti citoplasma de neutrófilos son positivos con una frecuencia que alcanza el 80 por ciento de casos, y la característica histológica más relevante es la presencia de lesiones granulomatosas necrosantes. El diagnóstico se basa en las manifestaciones clínicas, la biopsia con estudio histológico de los tejidos y órganos afectados así como la presencia de anticuerpos anti citoplasma de neutrófilos. Hoy en día se agrupa dentro de las denominadas vasculitis asociadas a anticuerpos anti citoplasma de neutrófilos positivas. Nuestro estudio tuvo como objetivo presentar un caso clínico inusual, en el cual reportamos a una paciente de 55 años de edad la cual fue atendida por presentar manifestaciones clínicas, de laboratorio y radiológicas que permiten confirmar el diagnóstico de una Granulomatosis de Wegener. Su forma clínica de expresión inicial mostró. una serie de signos y síntomas constitucionales como fiebre superior de 38 grados de varios días de evolución en horario vespertino, astenia, pérdida de apetito, artromialgias, manifestaciones respiratorias como dolor torácico e intercostal izquierdo, tos con expectoración mucosa, y disnea a esfuerzos físicos en aumento. Al examen físico se recogieron datos positivos como palidez cutánea mucosa, la presencia de disminución del murmullo vesicular a nivel del vértice del pulmón izquierdo con estertores crepitantes y una imagen a modo de masa tumoral redondeada del lóbulo superior del pulmón que orientaba al diagnóstico de una neoplasia de vértice de pulmón. Se realizaron múltiples estudios considerando el proteiforme cuadro clínico, los estudios inmunológicos realizados, y la histología por biopsia pulmonar, los que demostraron la existencia de lesiones de tipo granulomatosas compatibles con G. Wegener. Resultó efectiva la respuesta terapéutica con drogas esteroideas e inmunosupresoras en forma de bolos de ciclofosfamida acompañados de un fuerte tratamiento antibiótico de amplio espectro. Concluimos que se trata de un raro caso de granulomatosis de Wegener cuya forma de debut hizo plantear el diagnóstico inicial de una lesión tumoral de vértice de pulmón. No conocemos de otro caso similar reportado en nuestro medio(AU)

Granulomatosis with polyangiitis, formerly known as Wegener's Granulomatosis, is classified as systemic vasculitis, of unknown cause, affecting small and medium-sized vessels. It is characterized by the involvement of the respiratory system in its upper tract, lungs, as well as the kidneys, although it can affect other organs and systems. Neutrophil anticithoplasma antibodies are positive with a frequency that reaches over 80 percent of cases, and the most relevant histological feature is the presence of necrotizing granulomatous lesions. The diagnosis is based on clinical manifestations, biopsy with histological study of the affected tissues and organs as well as the presence of Neutrophil anticithoplasma antibodies. Nowadays it is grouped into the so-called Neutrophil anticithoplasma antibodies positive vasculitis. Arthromyalgia, respiratory manifestations such as thoracic and left intercostal pain, cough with mucous expectoration, and dyspnea on physical efforts in increase. The physical examination collected positive data such as mucous skin pallor, the presence of decreased vesicular murmur at the level of the left vertex of the lung with crackling rales and an image as a rounded tumor mass of the upper lobe of the lung that guided the diagnosis of a vertex neoplasm of lung. Multiple studies were carried out considering the proteiform clinical picture, the immunological studies performed, and the lung biopsy histology, which demonstrated the existence of granulomatous lesions compatible with G. Wegener. The therapeutic response was effective with steroidal and immunosuppressive drugs in the form of cyclophosphamide boluses accompanied by a strong broad-spectrum antibiotic treatment. We conclude that this is a rare case of Wegener's granulomatosis, whose debut form raised the initial diagnosis of a tumor of the lung vertex. We do not know of another similar case reported in our country(AU)

Granulomatose com poliangiite: atualização do diagnóstico ao tratamento / Granulomatosis with polyangiitis: updates from diagnosis to treatment

Introdução: Granulomatose com poliangiite (GPA) é uma vasculite granulomatosa necrosante pauci-imune que afeta predominantemente pequenos vasos. É uma doença rara, de etiologia multifatorial, e constitui importante diagnóstico diferencial das síndromes pulmão-rim. Objetivo: atualizar os principais tópicos acerca da granulomatose com poliangiite, além de trazer perspectivas futuras e avanços no manejo clínico dessa vasculite. Metodologia: revisão de literatura realizada em 2018 a partir das publicações dos últimos 5 anos nas base de dados do PubMed Central® e da SciELO®. Resultados: 29 referências bibliográficas selecionadas, das quais: 16 revisões de leteratura; 2 revisões sistemáticas; 1 estudo transversal; 2 estudos caso-controle; 6 coortes; 2 consensos atualizados (1 brasileiro de 2017 e 1 internacional de 2017). Conclusão: a granulomatose com poliangiite é uma entidade de elevada morbimortalidade, e teve seu algoritmo de tratamento recentemente atualizado, conforme abordado nesta revisão. Novos estudos ainda em estão em andamento para avaliar a eficácia e segurança de novas abordagens terapêuticas.

Introduction: Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) is a pauci-immune necrotizing granulomatous vasculitis that affects predominantly small vessels. It is a rare disease with a multifactorial etiology and an important differential diagnosis of Pulmonary-renal syndromes. Objective: to update the main topics about granulomatosis with polyangiitis, in addition to bringing future perspectives and advances in the clinical management of this vasculitis. Methodology: literature review conducted in 2018 from the publications of the last 5 years in PubMed Central® and SciELO® databases. Results: 29 selected bibliographical references, of which: 16 literature reviews; 2 systematic reviews; 1 cross-sectional study; 2 case-control studies; 6 cohorts; 2 updated consensuses (1 Brazilian, 2017 and 1 international, 2017). Conclusion: granulomatosis with polyangiitis is an entity with high morbidity and mortality, and its treatment algorithm has recently been updated, as discussed in this review. Further studies are underway to evaluate the efficacy and safety of novel therapeutic approaches.

Lesiones destructivas de la línea media facial secundarias al consumo de cocaína: caso clínico / Cocaine induced midline destructive lesions: report of one case

Vasculitic midline destructive lesions can be a complication of cocaine use. We report a 44-year-old man who presented with a two months history of left facial pain associated with ipsilateral facial paralysis and a cheek phlegmon. Magnetic resonance imaging showed broad soft tissue destruction linked to important cranial nerve involvement. Antibiotic and antifungal therapy was started and multiple surgical debridement procedures were performed, with no clinical improvement. Microbiological analysis was negative. Finally, thanks to the histologic findings corresponding to vasculitis and granuloma formation and the history of cocaine abuse, a cocaine induced midline destructive lesion was diagnosed.

Acometimento de nervos cranianos na granulomatose com poliangeíte (GPA) C-ANCA negativo / Cranial nerve impairment in granulomatosis with polyangeitis (GPA) C-ANCA negative

RESUMO O presente relato tem o objetivo de mostrar um caso incomum de Granulomatose com Poliangeíte (GPA), que previamente era denominada Granulomatose de Wegener. Trata-se de é uma doença multissistêmica, caracterizada por inflamação granulomatosa necrotizante e vasculite que envolve principalmente o trato respiratório superior e inferior, embora não raramente, exista comprometimento neurológico.

ABSTRACT This report aims to show an unusual case of granulomatosis with polyangeitis (GPA), previously known as Wegener's granulomatosis. It is a multisystemic disease characterized by necrotizing granulomatous inflammation and vasculitis involving mainly the upper and lower respiratory tract, although not infrequently, there is neurological impairment.

Estenosis subglótica como manifestación inicial de granulomatosis de Wegener en una adolescente: Caso clínico / Subglottic stenosis as the initial manifestation of Wegener's granulomatosis in a teenager: Case report

La granulomatosis de Wegener es una vasculitis granulomatosa necrotizante de origen autoinmune que afecta, principalmente, a la vía aérea superior e inferior y los riñones. Es muy rara en los niños y adolescentes. Cuando se inicia a edad temprana, se asocia, con frecuencia, a estenosis subglótica. La estenosis subglótica es una manifestación potencialmente fatal de la granulomatosis de Wegener. Su diagnóstico requiere un alto grado de sospecha porque puede desarrollarse en ausencia de otros signos de actividad y, en ocasiones, es la manifestación inicial de la enfermedad. Se confirma mediante la visualización endoscópica de la lesión. El tratamiento es complejo; requiere, a menudo, de repetidas intervenciones, debido a reestenosis. Presentamos a una paciente de 13 años de edad con estenosis subglótica secundaria a granulomatosis de Wegener. Describimos las manifestaciones clínicas, el diagnóstico y el tratamiento de esta rara causa de dificultad respiratoria en la población pediátrica.

Wegener's granulomatosis is a necrotizing granulomatous vasculitis of autoimmune origin that primarily affects the upper and lower airways and kidneys. It is very rare in children and adolescents. When started at a young age it is often associated with subglottic stenosis. Subglottic stenosis is a potentially fatal manifestation of Wegener's granulomatosis. Its diagnosis requires a high index of suspicion since it might develop in the absence of other signs of activity. Occasionally, subglottic stenosis may present as the initial manifestation of the disease. Diagnosis is confirmed by endoscopic visualization of the lesion. The treatment is complex, and it often requires repeated interventions due to restenosis. We present a 13-year-old patient with subglottic stenosis secondary to Wegener's granulomatosis. We describe the clinical manifestations, diagnosis and treatment of this rare cause of respiratory distress in the pediatric population.

Estenosis subglótica en pacientes con granulomatosis con poliangeítis / Subglottic stenosis in patients with granulomatosis with polyangiitis

Introducción: La granulomatosis con poliangeítis (GPA) es una enfermedad autoinmune con múltiples manifestaciones otorrinolaringológicas. La estenosis subglótica (ESG) se reporta entre 8%-50% de los pacientes. Objetivo: Describir la presentación clínica y tratamiento de la ESG en pacientes con GPA. Material y método: Estudio descriptivo retrospectivo de los pacientes atendidos en el Departamento de Otorrinolaringología de la Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile entre 2011 y 2015 con diagnóstico de GPA y ESG. Resultados: Diez pacientes (90% mujeres) con edad promedio al diagnóstico de 44,6 años. Los síntomas fueron: disnea (9/10), disfonía (6/10) y estridor (5/10). En el 80%, la ESG fue la presentación inicial de la GPA. El 90% presentó GPA localizada y 10% GPA sistémica. El 60% presentó anticuerpos anticitoplasma de neutrófilos (ANCA) negativo. Todos los pacientes recibieron glucocorticoides sistémicos, asociados a inmunosupresores y/o anticuerpos monoclonales. Una paciente requirió traqueostomía y dos pacientes han requerido dilatación endoscópica con balón asociado a inyección local de metilprednisolona. Conclusiones: La ESG puede ser la única manifestación de GPA. Los síntomas inespecíficos y la alta probabilidad de presentar ANCA negativo hacen difícil el diagnóstico. El manejo debe ser individualizado y multidisciplinario. La mayoría de nuestros pacientes pudieron ser manejados adecuadamente con tratamiento médico.

Introduction: Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) is an autoimmune disease that presents with multiple ENT manifestations. Subglottic stenosis (SGS) has been reported in 8-50% of the patients. Aim: To describe the clinical presentation and treatment of SGS in patients with GPA. Material and method: Retrospective review of clinical data from all patients consulting in the Otolaryngology department at Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile from 2011 to 2015 with SGS and GPA diagnosis. Results: Ten patients (90% female) with average age at diagnosis of44.6 years. The symptoms were: dyspnea (9/10), dysphonia (6/10) and stridor (5/10). SGS was the initial presenting manifestation of GPA in 80% of patients. GPA was localized in 90% and systemic in 10% of patients, and anti-neutrophilic cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA) were negative in 60% of patients. Systemic glucocorticoids were used in every patient, associated with immunosuppressants and/or monoclonal antibodies. One patient required tracheostomy and 2 patients were treated with endoscopic balloon dilation associated with local methylprednisolone injection. Conclusions: SGS can be GPA’s initial or unique manifestation. Diagnosis is hindered due to the unspecificity ofsymptoms and the high probability of presenting with negative ANCA. Individualized and multidisciplinary treatment is required. Most patients were treated pharmacologically with an adequate response in our series.

Granulomatosis con poliangeítis de presentación atípica: revisión de la literatura a propósito de un caso de localización ginecológica / Cervicovaginal granuloma as the first manifestation of granulomatosis with polyangiitis

La granulomatosis con poliangeitis (GPA) es una vasculitis sistémica, granulomatosa, con compromiso de pequeños vasos y presencia de anticuerpos c-ANCA. Ocasionalmente es localizada y es rara su manifestación genitourinaria. Se presenta el caso de una mujer de 68 años con sangrado genital causado por una lesión cervicovaginal verrucosa ulcerada, cuya histopatología descartó malignidad, hongos y TBC, con mala respuesta a antibióticos, ácido tricloro acético y crioterapia. Por recidiva al año se practica histerectomía total y colpectomía parcial, pero reincide al mes acompañada de epistaxis, cuyo estudio pornasofibroscopía e imágenes concluye en una lesión de tipo granulomatosa, agregándose anticuerpo anti PR-3 positivo. Se diagnostica GPA y se trata con ciclofosfamida con buena respuesta. La revisión de la literatura permite concluir que la GPA con localización cervicovaginal es muy poco frecuente, especialmente como manifestación inicial, y se debe considerar en el diagnóstico diferencial con cáncer y otras lesiones granulomatosas localizadas.

Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) is a systemic vasculitis, granulomatous, with commitment of small vessels and the presence of c-ANCA antibodies. Occasionally it is located and its genitourinary manifestation is rare. Presented the case of a 68 year old woman with genital bleeding caused by a lesion cervicovaginal ulcerated verrucosa, whose histopathology ruled out fungal, malignancy and TBC, with poor response to antibiotics, acid trichloro acetic and cryotherapy. By relapse a year is practiced total hysterectomy and partial colpectomia, but repeated a month accompanied by epistaxis, whose study by nasofibroscopia and images concludes in a type granulomatous lesion, adding antibody anti PR-3 positive. GPA is diagnosed and treated with cyclophosphamide with good response. Review of the literature leads to th conclusion that the GPA with cervico-vaginal location is very rare, especially as an initial manifestation, and should be considered in the diagnosis diferenttial with cancer and other localized granulomatous lesions.

An update of neurological manifestations of vasculitides and connective tissue diseases: a literature review / Atualização das manifestações neurológicas das vasculitides e das doenças do tecido conjuntivo: revisão de literatura

Vasculitides comprise a heterogeneous group of autoimmune disorders, occurring as primary or secondary to a broad variety of systemic infectious, malignant or connective tissue diseases. The latter occur more often but their pathogenic mechanisms have not been fully established. Frequent and varied central and peripheral nervous system complications occur in vasculitides and connective tissue diseases. In many cases, the neurological disorders have an atypical clinical course or even an early onset, and the healthcare professionals should be aware of them. The purpose of this brief review was to give an update of the main neurological disorders of common vasculitis and connective tissue diseases, aiming at accurate diagnosis and management, with an emphasis on pathophysiologic mechanisms.

As vasculites são um grupo heterogêneo de doenças autoimunes primárias ou secundárias a uma grande variedade de doenças infecciosas sistêmicas, malignas ou do tecido conjuntivo. Estas últimas são as que ocorrem com mais frequência, porém os mecanismos patogênicos ainda não foram plenamente determinados. Diversas e frequentes complicações do sistema nervoso central e periférico ocorrem nas vasculites e doenças do tecido conjuntivo. Em muitos casos, os distúrbios neurológicos têm evolução clínica atípica ou mesmo início precoce, ao que todos os profissionais de saúde devem estar cientes. O objetivo desta breve revisão foi atualizar os principais distúrbios neurológicos da vasculite comum e das doenças do tecido conjuntivo, visando ao diagnóstico e ao tratamento corretos, com ênfase nos mecanismos fisiopatológicos.

Nodular scleritis and granulomatous polyangiitis (Wegener) mimicking tuberculosis / Esclerite nodular e poliangiite granulomatosa (Wegener) mimetizando tuberculose

Granulomatous polyangiitis is a systemic disease that may affect any organ, with a predilection for the upper respiratory tract, lungs and kidneys. This article aims to report a case of a patient with atypical nodular scleritis as the initial manifestation of granulomatous polyangiitis (Wegener), mimicking a case of tuberculosis. The patient presented ocular hyperemia and lower progressive visual acuity for 1.5 years, followed by eye pain for two months. The patient had subpleural nodules with soft tissue density, increased pulmonary lymph nodes and discrete bilateral pleural thickening, with negative alcohol-resistant acid bacilli (BAAR). The histological diagnosis revealed a granulomatous vasculitis suggestive of non-infectious vasculitis (granulomatous polyangiitis). Cyclophosphamide pulse therapy was initiated.

Poliangiite granulomatosa é uma doença sistêmica que afeta qualquer órgão, com predileção pelo trato respiratório superior, pulmões e rins. Este artigo tem como objetivo relatar um caso atípico de uma paciente com esclerite nodular como manifestação inicial da poliangiite granulomatosa (Wegener), mimetizando um quadro de tuberculose. A paciente apresentou hiperemia ocular e baixa acuidade visual progressiva por 1,5 anos, seguido por dor ocular por dois meses. A paciente possuía nódulos subpleurais com densidade de partes moles, linfonodomegalia em janela aorto-pulmonar e espessamento pleural bilateral discreto, negativo para bacilos álcool-ácido resistentes (BAAR). O diagnóstico histológico revelou uma vasculite granulomatosa sugestiva de vasculite não infecciosa (poliangiite granulomatosa). Foi iniciada pulsoterapia com ciclofosfamida.

Granulomatosis eosinofílica con poliangeítis: reporte de caso yrevisión de la literatura / Eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis: case report and review of the literature

La granulomatosis eosinofílica con poliangeítis (Síndrome de Churg-Strauss) es una enfermedad vasculítica primaria poco frecuente. El diagnóstico actualmente se define a partir de la presencia de al menos cuatro de seis criterios propuestos por la Sociedad Americana de Reumatología, los cuales incluyen: asma bronquial, eosinofilia mayor que 10 por ciento, sinusitis paranasal, infiltración pulmonar, evidencia histológica de vasculitis y compromiso neurológico ya sea mono o polineuropático. En el presente artículo se reporta el caso de un paciente de 56 años con antecedentes de asma bronquial, rinitis alérgica y poliposis nasal operada, derivado a nuestro centro por cuadro de aumento de volumen doloroso en ambas extremidades inferiores, baja de peso, parestesias y debilidad muscular. Asociado a esto desarrolló lesiones purpúricas palpables cuya biopsia resultó compatible con granulomatosis eosinofílica con poliangeítis. El paciente posteriormente recibió tratamiento inmunosupresor con prednisona y un pulso de ciclofosfamida con buena respuesta clínica. Se presenta una revisión bibliográfica a propósito del caso.

Eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (Churg-Strauss Syndrome) is an uncommon primary vasculitis. The diagnosis is currently defined by the presence of at least four of six criteria proposed by the American College of Rheumatology, which include: asthma, eosinophilia less than 10 percent, paranasal sinusitis, pulmonary infiltration, histologic evidence of vasculitis and neurologic compromise as mono or polyneuropathy. In the present article, we report the case of a 56 year-old man with history of asthma, allergic rhinitis and operated nasal polyposis, referred to our center with painful bulking in both lower extremities, weight loss, paresthesias and muscle weakness. It also developed palpable purpura. Biopsy of skin lesions was compatible with eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis. The patient subsequently received immunosuppressive therapy with prednisone and a cyclophosphamide bolus with good clinical response. A review on the subject is also presented.

Infarto agudo do miocárdio como apresentação inicial de granulomatose eosinofílica com poliangiite (anteriormente, síndrome de Churg Strauss) / Acute myocardial infarction as Eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (formerly Churg Strauss syndrome) initial presentation

A granulomatose eosinofílica com poliangiite é uma vasculite primária rara, caracterizada por hipereosinofilia, asma de surgimento tardio e granulomas eosinofílicos extravasculares. Relatamos um caso apresentado inicialmente com infarto do miocárdio e que, ulteriormente, teve prosseguimento apenas com asma, manifestações cutâneas e neuropatia periférica. Os parâmetros laboratoriais revelaram hipereosinofilia com um padrão perinuclear negativo de autoanticorpos citoplásmicos antineutrófilos (p-ANCA). A biópsia de pele demonstrou vasculite leucocitoclástica com infiltração eosinofílica, diante de uma angiografia coronária normal. Os sintomas do paciente melhoraram com metilprednisolona IV, pulsoterapia com ciclofosfamida e azatioprina.

Eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis is a rare primary vasculitic disease characterized by hypereosinophilia, late onset asthma and extravascular eosinophil granulomas. We report a case presented initially with acute myocardial infarction which later only proceed with asthma, skin manifestations and peripheral neuropathy. Laboratory parameters showed hypereosinohpilia with negative perinuclear pattern of antineutrophil cytoplasmic autoantibodies (p-ANCA). Skin biopsy showed leucocytoclastic vasculitis with eosinophilic infiltration while coronary angiography was normal. The patient's symptoms improved with IV methylprednisolone, pulse cyclophosphamide and azathioprine.

A case of Wegener's granulomatosis mimicking recurrent hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis

No abstract available.

Vasculitis asociadas a anticuerpos anti-citoplasma de neutrófilos: Clínica y tratamiento / Anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis: Clinical aspects and treatment

Las vasculitis asociadas a anticuerpos anti-citoplasma de neutrófilos (ANCA) comprenden a un grupo de enfermedades caracterizadas por la inflamación de la pared de pequeños vasos. Analizamos las características epidemiológicas y clínicas en una serie de 47 pacientes: 23 (49%) granulomatosis de Wegener (GW), 15 (32%) poliangeítis microscópica (PAM) y nueve (19%) vasculitis limitada al riñón (VLR). La edad media al inicio de los síntomas fue de 50.7 ± 14.9 años. La manifestación clínica más frecuente fue el compromiso renal en 41 (87%) pacientes, seguido por el pulmonar en 26 (55%) y el otorrinolaringológico en 17 (36%). En 26 (55%) se asoció compromiso renal y pulmonar. La forma clínica más frecuente fue la generalizada en 23 (49%), seguida por la grave en 18 (38%). El 89% presentaron determinaciones de ANCA positivas. Cuatro (8%) no recibieron tratamiento inmunosupresor de inicio. De los 43 que recibieron tratamiento de inicio, 29 (67%) tuvieron remisión completa, con un tiempo de remisión promedio de 35.3 meses. Once (26%) presentaron recaídas, diez (91%) recaídas mayores y uno (9%) menor. Doce (28%) fallecieron, siete en forma temprana y cinco durante la evolución de la enfermedad. Quince (31%) evolucionaron a insuficiencia renal crónica. Los 26 pacientes en seguimiento tuvieron respuesta al tratamiento y 20 (77%) de ellos estaban en remisión al finalizar el estudio. Las vasculitis asociadas a ANCA continúan siendo enfermedades de alta morbilidad y mortalidad, a pesar de las mejorías logradas con los tratamientos inmunosupresores.

Anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA) associated vasculitis, comprise a group of diseases characterized by inflammation of the wall of small vessels. We analyzed epidemiological and clinical characteristics in a series of 47 patients, 23 (49%) with Wegener granulomatosis (WG), 15 (32%) with microscopic polyangiitis (MPA) and nine (19%) with renal limited vasculitis (RLV). The mean age at onset of symptoms was 50.7 ± 14.9 years. The most frequent clinical manifestation was renal involvement in 41 (87%), followed by pulmonary manifestations in 26 (55%) and ENT involvement in 17 (36%). In 26 (55%) it presented with simultaneous pulmonary and renal involvement. The most frequent clinical category was the generalized form in 23 (49%), followed by the severe form in 18 (38%). Eighty nine percent of patients had positive ANCA test. Four (8%) received no immunosuppressive treatment. Of the 43 patients who were treated, 29 (67%) achieved complete remission with an average length of remission of 35.3 months. Eleven (26%) had a relapse, ten (91%) had a major relapse and one had a minor relapse. Twelve (28%) patients died, seven died early and five late during the course of the disease. Fifteen (31%) progressed to chronic renal failure. All 26 patients in follow-up had response to treatment and 20 (77%) were in remission at the end of the study. Despite the improvements achieved with immunosuppressive treatments, morbidity and mortality rates in ANCA-associated vasculitis remain high.

Diagnóstico diferencial de nódulos pulmonares cavitados: a propósito de un caso clínico / Differential diagnosis of cavitary pulmonary nodules: a propos of a clinical case

El diagnóstico diferencial de nódulos pulmonares cavitados constituye un gran desafo en el cual, la clínica, la imagenología y los exámenes de laboratorio permiten una orientación etiológica en cutro grandes grupos: infecciosa, neoplásica, reumatológica y miscelánea. Presentamos el caso de una paciente gran fumadora y portadora de una diabetes mellitus descompensada, con nódulos pulmonares cavitados, en la cual el contexto clínico obligaba a plantear ciertas etiologías como las infecciosas y neoplásicas, pero cuya biopsia fue compatible con Granulomatosis con Poliangeítis (ex Granulomatosis de Wegener), sin una clínica ni exámenes de laboratorio concordantes con dicho hallazgo.

The differential diagnosis of cavitary pulmonary nodules is a great challenge, where the clinical context in addition to the image studies and laboratory tests are part of the key tools to guide the diagnostic process through 4 major etiological groups: infectious, neoplastic, rheumatologic and miscellaneous. We describe a case of a heavy smoker and complicated diabetic patient with cavitary pulmonary nodules, with a clinical context that induces certain etiologies such as infectious and neoplastic, but whose biopsy was compatible with Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (ex Wegener 's granulomatosis), without a clinical exam nor laboratory tests suggesting this finding.

Lesión destructiva de la línea media, a propósito de un caso / Midline destructive lesion. Case report

Introducción: El síndrome destructivo de la línea media es una entidad caracterizada por un conjunto de signos y síntomas secundarios a la afección, generalmente destructiva, de localización medio facial. Objetivos: Presentación de caso clínico y revisión bibliográfica. Reporte de caso: Varón de 38 años procedente de Chaco con diagnóstico de Leishmaniasis mucocutánea que cursó internación por una lesión destructiva de la línea media que luego de múltiples planteos diagnósticos y estudios complementarios se llega al diagnóstico final de vasculitis granulomatosa con poliangeitis (granulomatosis de Wegener).Discusión Estos pacientes representan un desafío diagnóstico en medicina interna, debido a las múltiples etiologías capaces de desarrollarlo, con manifestaciones clínicas similares pero con pronóstico y tratamiento diferente.

Introduction:Midline destructive syndrome is an entity characterized by a group of signs and symptoms, secondary to the condition, usually destructive and located in the middle of the face.Objectives: Clinical case report and literature review.Case Report: 38 year old male patient, from Chaco, with mucocutaneous Leishmaniasis diagnosis, who was hospitalized due to a midline destructive lesion. After multiple diagnostic options and complementary studies, the final diagnosis ofgranulomatosis with polyangiitis vasculitis (Wegener's granulomatosis) is reached. Discussion: These patients pose a diagnostic challenge in internal medicine, due to the multiple etiology factors that can be responsible of its development, with similar clinical symptoms but with a different treatment and prognosis.

ANCA-Negative Wegener's Granulomatosis with Multiple Lower Cranial Nerve Palsies

Wegener's granulomatosis (WG) is a systemic vasculitis affecting small and medium-sized vessels with granulomatous formation. Though it is known for respiratory tract and kidney involvement, neurologic manifestation has been also reported. Herein we report a patient who suffered pansinusitis with multiple lower cranial nerve palsies but reached remission by immunosuppressant after the diagnosis of WG. A 54-yr-old female visited with headache, hearing difficulty, and progressive bulbar symptoms. She experienced endoscopic sinus surgeries due to refractory sinusitis. Neurologic examination revealed multiple lower cranial nerve palsies. Vasculitic markers showed no abnormality. Nasal biopsy revealed granulomatous inflammation and vasculitis involving small vessels. Given cyclophosphamide and prednisolone, her symptoms were prominently improved. WG should be considered in the patient with multiple cranial nerve palsies, especially those with paranasal sinus disease. Because WG can be lethal if delayed in treatment, prompt immunosuppressant is warranted after the diagnostic tissue biopsy.

Lesões destrutivas da linha média induzidas por cocaína com ANCA positivo mimetizando a granulomatose de Wegener / Cocaine-induced midline destruction lesions with positive ANCA test mimicking Wegener's granulomatosis

O uso crônico de cocaína por inalação pode causar lesões destrutivas de linha média (LDLMIC), que podem ser difíceis de distinguir das lesões da granulomatose de Wegener (GW) nos ouvidos, nariz e garganta. Descrevemos o caso de uma paciente de 43 anos admitida com história de dois anos de obstrução nasal e rinorreia. Ela havia recebido o diagnóstico de GW há cinco meses e estava em tratamento com prednisona e ciclofosfamida. Ao exame físico apresentava perfuração de septo nasal e palato. Exames de laboratório mostraram elevação das proteínas de fase aguda e teste p-ANCA positivo. Ensaios ELISA antiproteinase 3 e mieloperoxidase foram negativos. Tomografia computadorizada (TC) dos seios paranasais mostrou destruição de septo nasal e palato, bem como sinusite maxilar bilateral. TC de tórax resultou normal. Biópsia da mucosa nasal revelou infiltrado inflamatório sem granuloma ou vasculite. Quando questionada, admitiu ser usuária de cocaína há cinco anos. Os imunossupressores foram suspensos e a paciente não mais fez uso da droga. Ela está sendo monitorada há seis meses e não desenvolveu novas lesões ou sintomas de outros órgãos. O diagnóstico diferencial em pacientes com LDLMIC pode ser desafiador. A avaliação deve incluir pesquisa de uso intranasal de cocaína. Embora o teste de ANCA não diferencie claramente o ANCA encontrado em alguns pacientes com LDLMIC daqueles em pacientes com GW, o envolvimento localizado e os achados de biópsia não típicos de vasculite granulomatosa de pequenos vasos devem ser reconhecidos como características das lesões induzidas por cocaína.

Chronic use of cocaine by inhalation may induce midline destructive lesions (CIMDL), which can sometimes be difficult to distinguish from the ear, nose and throat lesions of Wegener's Granulomatosis (WG). We describe the case of a 43-year-old female patient admitted with a two-year history of nasal obstruction and rhinorrhea. She had been diagnosed with WG for five months, being on prednisone and cyclophosphamide. On her physical examination, perforation of her nasal septum and palate was observed. Laboratory tests showed elevated acute phase proteins and a positive p-ANCA test. ELISA assays anti-proteinase 3 and myeloperoxidase were negative. The paranasal sinus computed tomography (CT) showed destruction of the nasal septum and palate, in addition to bilateral maxillary sinusitis. Chest CT was normal. Nasal mucosal biopsy revealed an inflammatory infiltrate, with neither granuloma nor vasculitis. When questioned, she admitted being a cocaine user for five years. Medical therapy and cocaine use were withdrawn. She has been followed up for six months and no other lesion or other organ symptoms occurred. Differential diagnosis in patients with midline destructive lesions can be very challenging. Evaluation should include enquiry about intranasal use of cocaine. Although ANCA testing does not clearly differentiate the ANCA found in some patients with CIMDL from those found in WG patients, the localized involvement and the biopsy findings non-characteristic of small vessel granulomatous vasculitis should be recognized as features for cocaine-induced lesions.