Viral genetic clustering and transmission dynamics of the 2022 mpox outbreak in Portugal.

Pathogen genome sequencing during epidemics enhances our ability to identify and understand suspected clusters and investigate their relationships. Here, we combine genomic and epidemiological data of the 2022 mpox outbreak to better understand early viral spread, diversification and transmission dynamics. By sequencing 52% of the confirmed cases in Portugal, we identified the mpox virus sublineages with the highest impact on case numbers and fitted them into a global context, finding evidence that several international sublineages probably emerged or spread early in Portugal. We estimated a 62% infection reporting rate and that 1.3% of the population of men who have sex with men in Portugal were infected. We infer the critical role played by sexual networks and superspreader gatherings, such as sauna attendance, in the dissemination of mpox virus. Overall, our findings highlight genomic epidemiology as a tool for the real-time monitoring and control of mpox epidemics, and can guide future vaccine policy in a highly susceptible population.

Granulomatosis With Polyangiitis: A Clinical Case.

Anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis is characterized by inflammation and the destruction of small- and medium-caliber blood vessels in the presence of circulating ANCAs. Anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis predominantly affects the lung and kidney with a multifactorial pathogenesis. This case refers to a 55-year-old woman with constitutional symptoms, hypoacusis, cough, and bloody sputum. Physical examination revealed polypnea and decreased lung auscultation at the bases; blood work showed elevated inflammatory parameters, acute kidney injury, and hematuria; pulmonary computed tomography revealed areas of peribronchial thickening in both lungs; immunological study resulted in positive ANCA-PR3. Corticotherapy and double immunosuppression with cyclophosphamide and rituximab were initiated, which resulted in clinical and analytical improvement. This case of granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA), with pulmonary, renal, cutaneous, and ear involvement, allows us to demonstrate the importance of timely clinical suspicion and initiation of immunosuppression for a favorable disease prognosis.