Current research status on immune-related adverse events / 中华胃肠外科杂志

Immune checkpoint inhibitors have progressed rapidly over the past decade and have become one of the most promising oncology treatments. However, immune checkpoint inhibitors reduce T-cell tolerance and lead to a unique spectrum of immune-related adverse events (IRAE). IRAE can involve multiple systems, including endocrine, gastrointestinal, respiratory and skin systems and there is no predictive marker with high specificity and sensitivity. Mild IRAE can be alleviated by discontinuing immune checkpoint inhibitors while severe IRAEs require active intervention. The first-line treatment is glucocorticoids, and immunosuppressants can be considered in refractory cases. However the optimal choice of immunosuppressants is currently controversial. This review provides an overview of the epidemiology and possible mechanisms of immune-related adverse events, outlines some promising predictive biomarkers, and describes several immunotherapy-related organ toxicity and management.

Uso de fármacos anticorpos monoclonais, imunomoduladores e anti-inflamatórios no tratamento da infecção por COVID-19 / Use of monoclonal antibodies, immunomodulators, and anti-inflammatory drugs in the treatment of COVID-19

O objetivo deste estudo foi realizar o levantamento bibliográfico de artigos científicos e ensaios clínicos sobre a utilização de anticorpos monoclonais, imunomoduladores e anti-inflamatórios como possíveis alternativas terapêuticas para uso em pacientes com COVID-19, com ênfase nos mecanismos de ação e resultados de ensaios clínicos. Foram analisados artigos obtidos na base de dados MEDLINE® e ensaios clínicos disponíveis no site ClinicalTrials no período de 6 de abril a 6 de maio de 2020. Os ensaios realizados com os fármacos apresentados nesta revisão bibliográfica sugerem a viabilidade de uso de algumas dessas drogas como alternativas para tratamento da COVID-19. No entanto, observou-se que, em função do número reduzido de participantes dos estudos disponíveis, é indispensável a continuidade de pesquisas e dos ensaios clínicos com esses medicamentos, para estimar a eficácia dessas drogas no tratamento do SARS-CoV-2, contra o qual ainda não há terapia específica

The objective of this study was to carry out a bibliographic survey of scientific articles and current clinical trials on the use of monoclonal antibodies, immunomodulators, and anti-inflammatories as possible therapeutic alternatives for use in patients with COVID-19, highlighting their mechanisms of action and results of clinical trials. Articles from the MEDLINE® database and clinical trials available on the ClinicalTrials website were analyzedThe tests performed with the drugs presented in this bibliographic review suggest the feasibility of using some of these drugs as treatment alternatives for COVID-19. However, it was observed that the small samples evaluated in these tests make it imperative to proceed with research and clinical trials with these drugs to provide greater evidence of the effectiveness of these drugs in the treatment of the disease caused by SARS-CoV-2, for which there is no specific therapy so far.

Evaluation of immunomodulatory effects of lomefloxacin in mice

Lomefloxacin is a flouroquinolone antibiotic that is quite efficacious against many gram negative and gram positive pathogens. Lomefloxacin evince antibacterial effects by modifying DNA gyrase in gram negative pathogens and topoisomerase IV in gram positive pathogens. This study is designed to assess the immunomodulatory effects of lomefloxacin in male albino mice. Three doses of lomefloxacin 12.5 mg/kg, 25 mg/kg and 50 mg/kg were used and delayed type hypersensitivity assay, cyclophosphamide induced neutropenic assay, carbon clearance assay, heamagglutination assay and mice lethality test were performed to evaluate the effects of lomefloxacin on immune system of mice. DTH assay has depicted the significant immunosuppressant potential of lomefloxacin at 25 mg/kg and 50 mg/kg dose. Total leukocyte count have exhibited highly significant reduction (P<0.001) in leukocyte count after cyclophosphamide administration. Differential leukocyte count has shown significant (P<0.01) reduction in lymphocyte count, whereas, highly significant (P<0.001) increase in monocyte count and significant (P<0.05) increase neutrophil count has been observed. In carbon clearance assay, highly significant (P<0.01) increase in phagocytic index has been noted at 12.5 mg/kg and 25 mg/kg doses. Humoral immune system responses are suppressed in dose dependent manner by both heamagglutination assay (P<0.001) and mice lethality assay (P<0.001). Results clearly depict that lomefloxacin possess quite significant immunomodulatory potential

Psoriasis in moderate grave plaque - immunobiological treatment

The Guidelines Project, an initiative of the Brazilian Medical Association, aims to combine information from the medical field in order to standardize producers to assist the reasoning and decision-making of doctors. The information provided through this project must be assessed and criticized by the physician responsible for the conduct that will be adopted, depending on the conditions and the clinical status of each patient.

Multiple sclerosis risk perception and acceptance for Brazilian patients / Percepção e aceitação de risco em pacientes brasileiros com esclerose múltipla

ABSTRACT The perception of multiple sclerosis (MS) severity and risk associated with therapies might influence shared decision making in different countries. We investigated the perception of MS severity and factors associated with risk acceptance in Brazil in 96 patients with relapsing-remitting MS using a standardized questionnaire and compared this with two European cohorts. Multiple sclerosis was perceived as a very severe disease and the risk of developing progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy due to natalizumab was seen as moderate to high. Seventy-six percent considered a risk of 1:1,000, or higher, an impediment for natalizumab use. Older age was the only variable associated with higher risk acceptance and our patients showed a more conservative profile than German and Spanish patients. Our patients perceived MS severity and progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy risk similarly to elsewhere, but their willingness to take risks was more conservative. This should be considered when discussing therapeutic options and it might have an impact on guideline adaptations.

RESUMO A percepção de gravidade da esclerose múltipla (EM) e riscos associado a terapias podem influenciar a escolha de tratamento em diferentes países. Investigamos a percepção da gravidade da EM e fatores associados à aceitação de risco em 96 pacientes com EM remitente-recorrentecom um questionário e comparamos com duas coortes europeias. A EM foi percebida como muito grave e o risco de desenvolver leucoencefalopatia multifocal progressiva devido ao natalizumabe, como moderado a alto, sendo que76% consideraram um risco de 1: 1.000 ou maior como impeditivo deseu uso. Idade mais avançada foi a única variável associada àaceitação de risco mais elevado e nossos pacientes revelaram um perfil mais conservador do que os pacientes alemães e espanhóis. Esses dados devem ser considerados ao discutir opções terapêuticas e pode ter impacto nas adaptações de diretrizes locais.

Terapia combinada en enfermedad inflamatoria intestinal: ¿una asociación necesaria? / Combination therapy in inflammatory bowel disease: a necessary association?

The management of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is constantly changing due to the arrival of new therapeutic agents. Combined therapy (biological associated with immunosuppressive therapy) has proven to be effective, reducing immunogenicity (antibody formation), optimizing the pharmacokinetics of biological therapy with anti-TNF. This therapeutic strategy has associated risks (neoplasia and intercurrent infections) that are not only explained by the use of drugs but also by the increase of cases in older ages. It is essential for the medical team to be familiar with the optimization and personalization of the therapy to achieve clear therapeutic objectives with the lowest possible risks.

El manejo de la enfermedad inflamatoria intestinal (EII) está en constante cambio, debido a la llegada de nuevos agentes terapéuticos. La terapia combinada (terapia biológica asociada a inmunosupresores) ha demostrado ser efectiva al disminuir la inmunogenicidad (formación de anticuerpos) permitiendo la optimización farmacocinética. Esta estrategia terapéutica tiene riesgos asociados (neoplasias e infecciones intercurrentes) que no sólo se explican por el uso de fármacos sino también por el aumento de casos en edades más avanzadas. Es fundamental que el equipo tratante este familiarizado con la optimización y personalización de la terapia para así lograr objetivos terapéuticos claros con los menores riesgos posibles.

Severe infection in patients with rheumatoid arthritis taking anakinra, rituximab, or abatacept: a systematic review of observational studies / Infecções graves em pacientes com artrite reumatoide em uso de anakinra, rituximab ou abatacept: revisão sistemática de estudos observacionais

ABSTRACT A question is raised about an increased risk of severe infection from the use of biological drugs in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. This systematic review of observational studies aimed at assessing the risk of severe infection associated with the use of anakinra, rituximab, and abatacept in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. The following databases were searched: PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus, Web of Knowledge, Scirus, Cochrane, Exerpta Medica Database, Scielo, and Lilacs up to July 2010. Severe infections were defined as those life-threatening ones in need of the use of parenteral antibiotics or of hospitalization. Longitudinal observational studies were selected without language restriction, involving adult patients diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis and who used anakinra, rituximab, or abatacept. In four studies related to anakinra, 129 (5.1%) severe infections were related in 2896 patients, of which three died. With respect to rituximab, two studies reported 72 (5.9%) severe infections in 1224 patients, of which two died. Abatacept was evaluated in only one study in which 25 (2.4%) severe infections were reported in 1046 patients. The main site of infection for these three drugs was the respiratory tract. One possible explanation for the high frequency of severe infections associated with anakinra may be the longer follow-up time in the selected studies. The high frequency of severe infections associated with rituximab could be credited to the less strict inclusion criteria for the patients studied. Therefore, infection monitoring should be cautious in patients with rheumatoid arthritis in use of these three drugs.

RESUMO Existe um questionamento sobre aumento do risco de infecções graves pelo uso de medicamentos biológicos por pacientes com artrite reumatoide. Esta revisão sistemática de estudos observacionais objetivou avaliar o risco de infecções graves associadas ao uso de anakinra, rituximab e abatacept em pacientes com artrite reumatoide. Foram pesquisadas as bases PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus, Web of Knowledge, Scirus, Cochrane, Exerpta Medica Database, Scielo e Lilacs até julho/2010. Infecções graves foram definidas como aquelas com de risco de vida, necessidade de antibióticos parenterais ou de hospitalização. Foram selecionados estudos observacionais longitudinais, sem restrição de idioma, que envolviam pacientes adultos com diagnóstico de artrite reumatoide que usaram anakinra, rituximab, abatacept. Em quatro estudos relacionados ao anakinra, foram relatadas 129 (5,1%) infecções graves em 2.896 pacientes, dos quais três evoluíram para óbito. Sobre o rituximab, dois estudos relataram 72 (5,9%) infecções graves em 1.224 pacientes, dos quais dois evoluíram para óbito. O abatacept foi avaliado em apenas um estudo, no qual foram relatadas 25 (2,4%) infecções graves em 1.046 pacientes. O principal sítio de infecção para os três medicamentos foi o trato respiratório. Uma possível explicação para a frequência elevada de infecções graves associadas ao anakinra pode ser o maior tempo de acompanhamento nos estudos selecionados. A frequência elevada de infecções graves associadas ao rituximab poderia ser creditada ao critério menos restrito de inclusão de pacientes. Portanto, deve ser cautelosa a monitoração de infecções nos pacientes com artrite reumatoide que usam esses três medicamentos.

Betainterferonas no tratamento da esclerose múltipla remitente-recorrente (EMRR) / Betainterferones in the treatment of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RSGR)

Contexto: A esclerose múltipla (EM) é uma condição inflamatória desmielinizante, de origem autoimune que acomete prejuízos na condução do impulso elétrico no sistema nervoso central (SNC). De caráter progressivamente incapacitante, afeta aspectos físicos, psicossociais e econômicos não só do paciente, como também de sua família e da sociedade. Apesar da existência de outras formas, o tratamento com betainterferonas é preconizado apenas para as formas remitente-recorrente (EMRR) e secundariamente progressiva (EMSP), não havendo evidências de benefício para as demais. Após a constatação na literatura de evidências sobre possíveis diferenças de efetividade entre as betainterferonas no tratamento da EMRR, o Ministério da Saúde, por meio da Secretaria de Ciência, Tecnologia e Insumos Estratégicos (SCTIE/MS), buscou avaliar os dados científicos e clínicos sobre o desempenho dessa classe terapêutica na EMRR para sua posterior análise pela Comissão Nacional de Incorporação de Tecnologias no SUS (CONITEC). Evidências científicas: Foram realizadas análises a partir da revisão sistemática incluindo todos os medicamentos preconizados no Protocolo Clínico e Diretrizes Terapêuticas (PCDT) da esclerose múltipla na 1ª linha de tratamento, composta de betainterferonas e acetato de glatirâmer, com foco nos desfechos relacionados à frequência de recaídas (surtos). Para a comparação entre Rebif® e Avonex®, foram encontrados poucos estudos, considerados heterogêneos e com resultados imprecisos. Na comparação Betaferon® e Avonex®, o primeiro foi estatisticamente superior nos resultados. Betaferon® e Rebif® demonstraram-se semelhantes. A partir de todos os estudos identificados, foi também elaborada uma comparação indireta dessas tecnologias por meio do método MTC (Mixed Treatment Comparison). Após sucessivas simulações no modelo proposto, foram evidenciadas as seguintes probabilidades de "ser o melhor tratamento": 44,66% com o glatirâmer; 33,7% com o Betaferon®; 21,62% com o Rebif® e 0,00025% com o Avonex®. Discussão: Os resultados apresentados na comparação indireta, com o ranqueamento das tecnologias envolvidas, mostraram que a betainterferona 1a 30 mcg (6.000.000 UI), nome comercial Avonex®, apresenta-se como a pior opção de tratamento. Ou seja, o Avonex® aprsentou um perfil de desempenho de eficácia muito provavelmente inferior quando comparado ao glatirâmer e às demais betainterferonas disponíveis. Monitoramento da Incorporação: A partir do pareamento de registros nos sistemas de informação do SUS, buscaram-se evidências de efetividade do 'mundo real'. Os resultados obtidos são consistentes com os achados dos ensaios clínicos e as revisões sistemáticas conduzidas pela Colaboração Cochrane e CONITEC. Em síntese, as informações do seguimento por aproximadamente 10 anos de pacientes em uso de betainterferonas para o tratamento da esclerose múltipla no SUS demonstraram um desempenho estatisticamente inferior do Avonex®. Isso ocorreu de forma consistente no desfecho de tempo até um evento (como surto ou morte), com pior curva de sobrevida do Avonex® e no desfecho de permanência no tratamento, com menor continuidade do Avonex® em comparação às demais betainterferonas. Tais dados, obtidos em um contexto de vida real, sugerem que não só existe uma efetividade menor, discutida anteriormente com dados de ensaios clínicos em modelos de comparação indireta, como também não se pode inferir que o Avonex® esteja associado a melhores índices de adesão ao tratamento. Decisão: Restringir de uso da betainterferona intramuscular 1A 6.000.000 UI (30 mcg) no tratamento da esclerose múltipla do subtipo Remitente Recorrente, no âmbito do Sistema Único de Saúde ­ SUS, dada pela Portaria SCTIE-MS nº 27 publicada no Diário Oficial da União (D.O.U.) nº 130, de 08 de julho de 2016.

Estrategias terapéuticas en el tratamiento de la acalasia esofágica / Therapeutical strategies in the treatment of esophageal achalasia

Introducción: la acalasia es un trastorno degenerativo de la motilidad esofágica cuyo resultado es la ausencia o pobre relajación del esfínter esofágico inferior a la deglución asociado a trastorno motor del cuerpo esofágico. Afecta a ambos sexos con una incidencia de 1/100 000 y una prevalencia de 10/100 000. En su fisiopatología se han involucrado factores inmunológicos, genéticos, infecciosos y neurodegenerativos, que conllevan a pérdida selectiva de las neuronas inhibitorias del plexo mientérico e infiltrado inflamatorio en el esfínter esofágico inferior. Objetivo: revisar las modalidades terapéuticas en el tratamiento de la acalasia con un análisis a corto y largo plazo de las opciones de tratamiento. Métodos: con la introducción para su diagnóstico de la manometría de alta resolución se ha creado un novedoso sistema de clasificación que puede evaluar el pronóstico para el paciente y predecir la respuesta al tratamiento. La terapéutica descansa sobre la base de: tratamiento médico, procederes endoscópicos y tratamiento quirúrgico, siendo éste el estándar terapéutico, aunque continúa el debate sobre qué método es mejor, si la dilatación neumática, o la miotomía de Heller. Resultados: la miotomía laparoscópica de Heller (MLH) ha emergido en los últimos años como el tratamiento de elección, particularmente en pacientes jóvenes (≤ 45 años). Desde noviembre del 2012 hasta septiembre del 2015 se han realizado 27 dilataciones endoscópicas,15 mujeres (55,6 por ciento) y 12 hombres (44,4 por ciento), sin reportar complicaciones. Desde enero 2010 hasta diciembre 2014 se realizaron 188 miotomías de Heller por abordaje laparoscópico, el promedio de estadía hospitalaria fue de un día, no hubo conversión ni reintervención y la mortalidad fue nula(AU)

Introduction: Achalasia is a neurodegenerative motility disorder of the esophagus resulting in failure of the lower esophageal sphincter to relax properly in response to swallowing and associated to motor disorder of the esophageal body. It affects both sex with an incidence rate of 1/100 000 and a prevalence of 10/100 000. Its pathophysiology includes immune, genetics, infectious and neurodegenerative factors that result in a selective loss of inhibitory neurons of the myenteric plexus and inflammatory infiltrate in the lower esophageal sphincter. Objective: Objectives: To review the therapeutic modalities in the treatment of achalasia with short- and long-term analysis of treatment options. Methods: Through the introduction of high resolution manometry, a novel classification system for achalasia has been created to evaluate the prognosis of a patient and to predict response to treatment. Therapeutics is based on medical treatment, endoscopic procedures and surgery, being the latter the gold standard; however there is currently much debate over whether pneumatic dilation is better than Heller myotomy procedure in the treatment of achalasia. Results: Laparoscopic Heller myotomy has emerged in the last few years as the treatment of choice, particularly for young patients 45 years of age or younger. From November 2012 to September 2015, 27 endoscopic dilations have been perfomed in 15 women (55.6 percent) and 12 men (44.4 percent) with no reported complications. From January 2010 to December 2014, one hundred and eighty eight laparoscopic Heller myotomies were performed; the hospital stay was one day, neither conversion nor reoperation was necessary and the mortality rate was zero(AU)

Fertilidad y embarazo en pacientes con enfermedades inflamatorias intestinales / Fertility and pregnancy in patients with inflamatory bowel disease

Las Enfermedades Inflamatorias Intestinales (EII) son entidades crónicas del tracto digestivo, que afectan frecuentemente a pacientes en edad reproductiva. Debido a las características de estas enfermedades y su tratamiento, existen múltiples desafíos. En este artículo, revisamos la evidencia más reciente con respecto a fertilidad y embarazo en pacientes con EII. En general, existe evidencia de que pacientes con EII tienen una mayor tasa de complicaciones durante el embarazo con respecto a pacientes sin EII. Sin embargo, esta diferencia está directamente asociada al grado de actividad de la enfermedad. La mayor parte de los fármacos hoy usados en el tratamiento de EII son considerados seguros durante el embarazo y se recomienda continuarlos, sobre todo considerando que el mayor riesgo de complicaciones está asociado a una enfermedad activa. Sin embargo es importante considerar las opciones caso a caso. Las dos grandes excepciones son metotrexato y talidomida que están completamente contraindicadas. La recomendación más importante es educar a toda paciente con EII en edad reproductiva, explicando que el embarazo debe llevarse a cabo cuando la enfermedad esté controlada y que la probabilidad de complicaciones está relacionada con el grado de actividad y severidad de la EII. Los médicos tratantes deben educar a las pacientes, enfatizando el seguimiento de los controles y tratamiento

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) are chronic conditions of the gastrointestinal tract that can affect patients during their childbearing years. Considering the characteristics of disease and the medications used to treat it, several issues arise in the care of these patients when they attempt or achieve conception. We review the most current evidence concerning fertility and pregnancy outcomes in patients with IBD. With the exception of those women who undergo pelvic surgery, patients with IBD have no decreased fertility. Overall, when looking at obstetrical outcomes, patients with IBD have worse outcomes when compared to controls, but this is usually driven by disease activity at conception. While most medications used to treat IBD are low risk, some precautions need to be taken and the risk-to-benefit ratio needs to be considered on a case-to-case basis. In general, aminosalicylates and thiopurines should be continued, but methotrexate and thalidomide are contraindicated. Anti-tumor necrosis factor agents are considered safe to continue but full monoclonal antibodies do cross the placenta. As a general rule, it is important to counsel women that conception is optimal when disease is in remission, as adverse obstetrical outcomes are directly associated with disease activity. Clinicians need to educate patients before, during and after conception, emphasizing treatment compliance.

Treatment of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis during pregnancy and breastfeeding

Abstract Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects primarily the skin and joints, with a worldwide incidence of 2-3%. Fifty percent of patients are women, most still diagnosed during childbearing years. Currently,the estimate is that up to 107 thousand deliveries are performed annually in women with psoriasis, a percentage of them in women with moderate to severe disease. Fetal risks in pregnant women with psoriasis derive both from maternal disease and the medications used to control the illness. The purpose of this review is to study the effect of the main drugs used in the treatment of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis during pregnancy and lactation, with particular focus on disease-modifying anti-rheumatic biological drugs, biological therapies, immunobiologics or biologics.

Two cases of renal cell cancer during immunobiologic therapy for psoriasis

Immunobiologic therapy is indicated for severe forms of psoriasis, resistant to conventional therapy. There is growing concern about their safety profile and possible association with cancer development. This article documents two cases of renal cell cancer during treatment with biologic therapy, reviewing what is described in the literature . The risk of solid tumors as a complication of using TNF-alpha inhibitors is controversial. No conclusion can be drawn from the data in the literature, however, we believe that special attention should be given to those with known risk factors for a specific neoplasm.

Reações infusionais imediatas a agentes imunobiológicos endovenosos no tratamento de doenças autoimunes: experiência de 2.126 procedimentos em um centro de infusão não oncológico / Immediate infusional reactions to intravenous immunobiological agents for the treatment of autoimmune diseases: experience of 2126 procedures in a non-oncologic infusion centre

Introdução: Com o crescimento do uso de drogas imunobiológicas (IBD) ampliamos o conhecimento sobre sua eficácia e segurança. Objetivo: Analisar as reações infusionais imediatas (RII) às IBD endovenosas - infliximabe (IFX), rituximabe (RTX), abatacepte (ABT) e tocilizumabe (TCZ) - no tratamento de doenças autoimunes. Método: Avaliamos 2.126 infusões feitas no CID (Centro de Infusão) em 268 pacientes. A droga usada, a indicação clínica, o tempo de infusão e o uso de pré-medicação foram determinados pelo médico prescritor. Foram consideradas RII todas as intercorrências apresentadas durante a infusão e/ou período observacional de 30 minutos. A conduta adotada nas RII seguiu os protocolos do CID. Resultados: Em relação ao tipo de IBD, as infusões foram distribuídas em: IFX (1.584; 74,5%), TCZ (226; 10,63%), RTX (185; 8,7%) e ABT (131; 6,16%). As RII foram descritas em 87 procedimentos (4,09%): 77 no grupo IFX e 10 no grupo RTX. Não foram descritas RII nos grupos de ABT e TCZ. A maioria foi considerada leve (n = 5; 41,17%) ou moderada (n = 50; 58,81%) e não houve reações graves. Das infusões interrompidas, 79 (92,9%) foram reiniciadas e concluídas com êxito. Apenas seis (0,28%) não foram concluídas por causa das RII. Conclusão: Apesar da diferença entre o número de procedimentos por droga, trata-se de uma análise de "vida real", na qual a incidência de RII foi semelhante à descrita na literatura. A baixa incidência de RII corrobora os dados de segurança tanto de forma quantitativa como qualitativa e ressalta a importância do acompanhamento médico especializado durante a infusão. .

Introduction: With the increasing use of immunobiological drugs (IBD), the knowledge about their effectiveness and safety has increased. Objective: To analyze the immediate infusional reactions (IIR) to intravenous IBD: infliximab (IFX), rituximab (RTX), abatacept (ABT) and tocilizumab (TCZ) on the treatment of autoimmune diseases. Method: 2126 infusions performed in the Infusion Centre - CID in 268 patients were analyzed. The used drug, its clinical indication, infusion time, and use of premedication were determined by the prescribing physician. All intercurrences presented during infusion and/or during a thirty minutes observation period were considered as IIR. The approach adopted in IIR followed the protocols of the Infusion Centre - CID. Results: Regarding the type of IBD, the infused drugs given were: IFX (1584, 74.5%), TCZ (226, 10.63%), RTX (185, 8.7%) and ABT (131, 6,16%). IIR were described in 87 procedures (9.4%): 77 - IFX group and 10 - RTX group. IIR were not described in ABT and TCZ groups. Most were considered as mild (n = 5; 41.17%) or moderate (n = 50, 58.81%) reactions; there were no serious reactions. Regarding to discontinue infusions, 79 (92.9%) were resumed and completed successfully. Only six (0.28% of infusions) were not completed because of IIR. Conclusion: Despite the differences between the number of procedures per drug, ours is a "real life" analysis, where the incidence of IIR was similar to that described in the literature. The low incidence of IIR corroborates the safety data, both quantitatively and qualitatively, and underscores the importance of specialized medical support during infusion. .

The impact of glucocorticoids and anti-cd20 therapy on cervical human papillomavirus infection risk in women with systemic lupus erythematosus

OBJECTIVE: To identify the prevalence and factors associated with cervical human papillomavirus infection in women with systemic lupus erythematosus METHODS: This cross-sectional study collected traditional and systemic lupus erythematosus-related disease risk factors, including conventional and biologic therapies. A gynecological evaluation and cervical cytology screen were performed. Human papillomavirus detection and genotyping were undertaken by PCR and linear array assay. RESULTS: A total of 148 patients were included, with a mean age and disease duration of 42.5±11.8 years and 9.7±5.3 years, respectively. The prevalence of squamous intraepithelial lesions was 6.8%. The prevalence of human papillomavirus infection was 29%, with human papillomavirus subtype 59 being the most frequent. Patients with human papillomavirus were younger than those without the infection (38.2±11.2 vs. 44.2±11.5 years, respectively; p = 0.05), and patients with the virus had higher daily prednisone doses (12.8±6.8 vs. 9.7±6.7 mg, respectively; p = 0.01) and cumulative glucocorticoid doses (14.2±9.8 vs. 9.7±7.3 g, respectively; p = 0.005) compared with patients without. Patients with human papillomavirus infection more frequently received rituximab than those without (20.9% vs. 8.5%, respectively; p = 0.03). In the multivariate analysis, only the cumulative glucocorticoid dose was associated with human papillomavirus infection. CONCLUSIONS: The cumulative glucocorticoid dose may increase the risk of human papillomavirus infection. Although rituximab administration was more frequent in patients with human papillomavirus infection, no association was found. Screening for human papillomavirus infection is recommended in women with systemic lupus erythematosus. .

Eventos adversos en 1395 infusiones con diferentes preparados de gammaglobulina intravenosa / Adverse events in 1395 infusions with different intravenous gammaglobulin products

Los procesos de aislamiento y esterilización de la gammaglobulina endovenosa (IVIG) afectan las características del producto terminado y, por lo tanto, su tolerabilidad. Distintos productos tienen diferentes incidencias de reacciones adversas. Este trabajo cuantifica los eventos adversos (EA) inmediatos provocados por distintas preparaciones de IVIG. Analizamos 1395 infusiones en 28 pacientes, con una mediana de 32.5 por sujeto (rango 2-214), utilizando seis preparados distintos de IVIG, con una dosis total promedio de 40.3 ± 8.3 g. Analizamos retrospectivamente 1 031 infusiones y 364 prospectivamente. Los pacientes utilizaron una media de 2.68 ± 1.8 IVIG diferentes, con una mediana de 2 (rango 1-6) por persona. El número de marcas comerciales utilizadas se relacionó con el número de infusiones recibidas, r = 0.73. En 24 (2.3%) de 1031 infusiones analizadas en forma retrospectiva se registraron EA que afectaron a 11 de los 23 casos incluidos, con una media de 2.18 ± 1.08 EA por afectado. De 24 pacientes y de 364 infusiones prospectivas, en 14 pacientes y en 32 (7.2%) procedimientos se observaron EA. Veinticuatro (42.9%) de 56 EA fueron leves, 31 (55.5%) moderados y uno (1.8%) fue grave. La velocidad de infusión fue de 9.04 ± 4.6 g/h para las que presentaron EA vs. 10.6 ± 4.6 g/h para las que no (p = 0.31). La incidencia, la gravedad y la proporción de pacientes afectados con EA para cada marca comercial de IVIG fueron muy diferentes entre sí. Esta información debe ser tomada en cuenta en el momento de selección de la IVIG a utilizar.

The processes of isolation and sterilization of intravenous gamma globulin (IVIG) affect the end product characteristics and, therefore, its tolerability. Different products have different incidences of adverse reactions. The aim of this study was to quantify the immediate adverse events (AE) caused by the different IVIG preparations. We analyzed 1 395 infusions in 28 patients, with a median of 32.5 per subject (range 2-214), using six different IVIG preparations, with an average dose 40.3 ±8.3 g. One thousand and thirty-one infusions were analyzed retrospectively and 364 prospectively. Patients used a mean of 2.68 ±1.8 different IVIGs, with a median of 2 (range 1-6) per person. The number of trademarks used was related to the number of infusions received, r = 0.73. AE presented in 24 (2.3%) of 1 031 infusions retrospectively analyzed, affecting 11 of 23 patients enrolled, with a mean of 2.18 ± 1.08 AE per subject. Of 24 patients and 364 infusions prospectively analyzed, AE were observed in 14 patients and in 32 (7.2%) procedures. Twenty-four (42.9%) of 56 AE were mild, 31 (55.5%) moderate and one (1.8%) severe. The infusion rate was 9.04±4.6 g/h for those presenting AE vs. 10.6±4.6 g/h for those who did not (p = 0.31, NS). The incidence, severity and proportion of patients with AE for each brand of IVIG were very different from each other. This information should be taken into account when selecting the IVIG to be used.

Reativação de tuberculose no tratamento com imunobiológicos / Reactivation of tuberculosis in treatment with immunobiological

O uso de agentes biológicos vem se mostrando uma boa opção no tratamento da psoríase de difícil controle. Os inibidores do fator de necrose tumoral alfa (TNF-alfa) demonstraram resultados positivos tanto em índices de resposta terapêutica quanto em velocidade de início de ação. No entanto, pelo fato de o TNF-alfa ter uma importante participação na formação do granuloma e, consequentemente na defesa contra o Mycobacterium tuberculosis, tal tratamento pode resultar na reativação de doença latente. Assim sendo, o screening para tuberculose é necessário antes e durante o uso destas drogas na prática clínica.

The use of biologics agents has been a good option in the trteatment of resistant psoriasis. The tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) blockers demonstrated positives results, both in efficacy and onset of action. However TNF-alpha plays an important role in host defense against tuberculosis, this treatment can result in reactivation of latent disease. Thus, screening for tuberculosis is necessary before and during the use of these drugs in clinical practice.

Hiponatremia y terapia con inmunoglobulina endovenosa: a propósito de un paciente consíndrome de sobreposición / Hyponatremia and therapy with intravenous immunoglobulin: about a patient with overlap syndrome

El uso de inmunoglobulina endovenosa está cada vez más difundido, tanto para inmunodeficiencias como para enfermedades de orden autoinmune, infecciosas, así como de tipo neurológico. Si bien la infusión de ésta se asocia con algunos efectos adversos sintomáticos, también es cierto que varios pasan desapercibidos. Se presenta el caso de una paciente con síndrome de sobreposición (polimiositis y esclerodermia), la que durante el procedimiento presenta una pseudohiponatremia asociada a una excelente respuesta clínica a este fármaco. Es importante recalcar que esta complicación sólo corresponde a un hallazgo y no tiene indicación de suspender la terapia.

The use of intravenous immunoglobulin is becoming increasingly widespread, for immunodeficiencies, autoimmune, infectious and neurological diseases. Although this infusion is associated with some symptomatic adverse effects, it is also true that many go unnoticed. A case of a patient with overlap syndrome (polymyositis and scleroderma) is reported, who presented with a pseudohiponatremia associated with excellent clinical response to this. It is important to emphasize that this complication only corresponds to a finding and it is not an indication to discontinue the therapy.

Meningoencefalitis por cryptococcus neoformans en un paciente con lupus eritematoso sistémico tratado con rituximab y micofenolato mofetilo: [revisión] / Meningoencephalitis due to cryptococcus neoformans in systemic lupus erythematosus patient treated with rituximab and mycophenolate mofetil: [review]

Presentamos un paciente con Lupus Eritematoso Sistémico (LES) tratado previamente con Rituximab y Micofenolato Mofetilo que desarrolló una criptococosis meníngea. Los pacientes con LES presentan múltiples defectos en su sistema inmune (SI) que, sumados a los producidos por los tratamientos inmunosupresores, predisponen a infecciones, entre ellas, a las causadas por gérmenes oportunistas. La meningitis por criptococo es una rara y severa complicación en estos pacientes. Rituximab produce una serie de cambios en el SI actuando sobre los linfocitos B, mientras que micofenolato actúa tanto sobre las células T como B. Las alteraciones inmunológicas presentes en nuestro paciente serían producto de la sumatoria de efectos de ambas drogas que explicarían la infección por Criptococcus neoformans.

We presented a systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patient previously treated with rituximab and mycophenolate who developed cryptococcal meningitis. SLE patients have multiple defects in the immunity system in addition to the additive effects of immunosuppressive treatments, which predispose to opportunistic infections. Cryptococcal meningitis is a rare and severe complication in SLE patients. Rituximab produces a series of changes in the immune system by acting on B cells, while mycophenolate produces its actions by acting on T and B cells. The immunology system defects in our patient could be done because the additive effects of two drugs that could explain the Cryptococcus neoformans infection.

Terapia con inmunoglobulina endovenosa: mecanismos de acción, usos e indicaciones / Intravenous immunoglobulin treatment: mechanisms of action, uses and indications

Los anticuerpos o inmunoglobulinas forman parte de la inmunidad humoral y son producidos por los linfocitos B. Sus funciones incluyen neutralización, opsonización y fagocitosis de microorganismos y toxinas, activación del complemento y citotoxicidad dependiente de anticuerpos (ADCC). Hace más de 50 años las preparaciones de inmunoglobulina humana endovenosa (IGIV) han sido utilizadas tanto como terapias de reemplazo en inmunodeficiencias como en tratamientos inmunomoduladores/antiinflamatorios.Los mecanismos de acción se pueden clasificar en antiinfectivos y en inmunomoduladores-antiinflamatorios. Los primeros se basan en la restauración de los niveles de anticuerpos tanto patógeno-específicos como naturales, lo que lleva al desarrollo de una respuesta inmune humoral normal. El segundo mecanismo es más complejo y comprende la neutralización de autoanticuerpos, modulación de citoquinas e inhibición del complemento, entre otros.Sus indicaciones en la actualidad incluyen algunas inmunodeficiencias primarias y secundarias, además de ciertas enfermedades autoinmunes y desórdenes inflamatorios sistémicos.

Antibodies or immunoglobulins make up part of humoral immunity and are produced by B lymphocytes. Functions include neutralization, opsonization and phagocytosis of microorganisms and toxins, complement activation and antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC). Preparations of intravenous human immunoglobulin (IGIV) have been used for more than fifty years in both replacement therapies in immunodeficiency and in immunomodulatory / anti-inflammatory treatments. Mechanisms of action can be classified in anti-infective and in immunomodulatory / anti-inflammatory. The first are based on the restoration of both pathogen-specific and natural antibodies, which leads to a normal humoral immune response. The second is more complex and includes antibody neutralization, cytokine modulation and complement inhibition, among others.Present-day indications include primary and secondary immunodeficiencies, as well as certain autoimmune diseases and systemic inflammatory disorders.