ABSTRACT
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is the prototype of autoimmune diseases with multiorgan involvement. SLE presents many genetic and epigenetic associations and the pathogenesis is characterized by a complex network of alterations affecting both adaptative and innate immunity. The disclosure of novel mechanisms of SLE pathogenesis suggested new therapeutic targets, based on interference with the cytokine pathways or on depletion of the immune cells.
Subject(s)
Adaptive Immunity/drug effects , Immunity, Innate/drug effects , Immunologic Factors/therapeutic use , Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic/drug therapy , Molecular Targeted Therapy , Animals , Humans , Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic/diagnosis , Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic/etiology , Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic/immunology , Risk Factors , Treatment OutcomeABSTRACT
A large number of diseases can mimic a vasculitis. The diagnosis can be challenging due to the similarity with several diseases that have a different pathogenesis. As reported in the literature, incontinentia pigmenti (IP), a rare genetic disorder, can present vascular alterations on eye, brain and lung. We report a case of peripheral arterial disease in a patient with IP, suggesting further vascular localizations of the disease.
Subject(s)
Common Variable Immunodeficiency/therapy , Immunoglobulins/administration & dosage , Immunoglobulins/adverse effects , Infusions, Subcutaneous , Lichenoid Eruptions/chemically induced , Adult , Humans , Immunoglobulins/immunology , Immunoglobulins/therapeutic use , Immunologic Factors/administration & dosage , Immunologic Factors/adverse effects , Immunologic Factors/therapeutic use , Lichenoid Eruptions/diagnosis , Lichenoid Eruptions/pathology , Male , Skin/pathology , Skin TestsABSTRACT
Infliximab, a chimeric monoclonal anti-TNF-alfa agent used to treat autoimmune diseases, has shown a paradoxical side effect in the development of autoimmunity. We describe a case of alopecia areata universalis associated with infliximab treatment in a patient with Behçet disease. This case suggests a complex and contradictory role of TNF-α in the pathogenesis of alopecia areata.
