ABSTRACT
Context: Anti-double-stranded deoxyribonucleic acid antibodies (dsDNA Abs) are highly specific markers of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Multiple methods are employed for their detection in routine diagnostics. Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate a diagnostic approach for anti-dsDNA Abs using DNA-ELISA and Crithidia luciliae fluorescence test (CLIFT), in combination with antinuclear antibody (ANA) screening. Methods: We enrolled 113 patients-53 with SLE, 50 with other systemic autoimmune rheumatic diseases (OSARD), and 10 with non-autoimmune clinical conditions (NAICC).Patients' samples were tested for anti-dsDNA Abs using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and CLIFT, combined to ANA screening by indirect immunofluorescence assay (ANA-IIFA). Results: The mean age of patients was 39.94 ± 15 years (ranges: 11-85 years). Overall, specimens from 77.3%, 11.7%, and 20% of patients with SLE, OSARD and NAICC respectively were ELISA-positive; and those from 54.7% to 4% of patients with SLE and OSARD, respectively, were CLIFT-positive. CLIFT positivity was significantly associated with high ELISA titers (p = 0.002) and homogeneous ANA-IIF pattern (p = 0.0002). Conclusion: For better clinical relevance of anti-dsDNA antibodies, we suggest a combined detection strategy based on ELISA, CLIFT and ANA-IIFA, considering the clinical criteria of SLE.
ABSTRACT
We describe the case of a 7-year-old child, victim of ocular trauma causing a corneal wound that was sutured urgently. The child has been regularly monitored in our department. Few months later, he consults for a painful red eye evolving within two weeks. The use of voriconazole as an intracameral injection has shown its superiority in treating fungal endophtalmitis. Further studies should be underwent to learn more about better injection strategies and so as to consider better its benefits and side effects.
