Circulating extracellular vesicles in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: physicochemical properties and phenotype.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to identify the physicochemical and phenotypic characteristics of circulating Extracellular Vesicles (EVs) in the plasma of patients with SLE, with or without Lupus Nephritis (LN), and their potential utility as disease biomarkers. METHODS: Plasma-circulating EVs were concentrated using differential centrifugation from adult female patients (n=38) who met the 'American College of Rheumatology/European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology 2019' criteria for SLE diagnosis with (LN) or without LN (nLN), confirmed by renal biopsy. Controls (n=18) were healthy volunteers matched by gender and similar age. The structure, size and Energy Dispersion Spectrum (EDS) of EVs were observed by electron microscopy. The surface charge and size distribution were evaluated using dynamic light scattering. The counts and phenotype of EVs from patients (SLE-EVs) and controls (Ctrl-EVs) were obtained using flow cytometry. Non-parametric statistical tests and exploratory analysis of multiple variables were performed. The discriminatory power of some variables as potential biomarkers of the disease was also evaluated. RESULTS: Circulating EVs were heterogeneous in morphology and size, but SLE-EVs reached larger diameters than Ctrl-EVs (p<0.0001). Small SLE-EVs and large SLE-EVs were increased compared with Ctrl-EV (p<0.0001 and p<0.05, respectively). Likewise, patients with SLE (LN or nLN) had higher concentrations of large EVs compared with controls (p<0.001 and p<0.0001, respectively). SLE-EVs showed a different EDS (p<0.001) and were less electronegative (p<0.0001) than Ctrl-EVs. EV-CD45+, EV-CD14+ and EV-IgM+ were more frequent in patients with SLE compared with controls (p<0.001, p<0.05 and p<0.001, respectively). The concentrations of large EVs and EV-IgM+ allowed better discrimination of patients from controls. CONCLUSIONS: Plasma-circulating EVs from patients with SLE with and without nephritis are increased in peripheral blood and have different physicochemical properties than controls. Characteristics of EVs such as larger size and the presence of IgM on the surface could help discriminate patients from controls.

[Epidemiological, clinical, and biochemical characteristics of patients in the LUPUS-IMMex cohort]. / Características epidemiológicas, clínicas y bioquímicas de los pacientes en la cohorte LUPUS-IMMex.

Background: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease that can affect multiple organs and body systems. Objective: To describe the sociodemographic, clinical, and biochemical characteristics of the Lupus-IMMS-Mexico (LUPUS-IMMex) patient cohort from a tertiary-level center. Material and methods: Observational descriptive study of 160 patients with diagnosis of SLE belonging to the aforementioned cohort. Various variables were analyzed at the time of diagnosis. For quantitative variables, normality tests were applied, followed by measures of central tendency and dispersion according to their distribution. For categorical variables, frequencies and percentages were calculated. Results: 81.87% of the patients were female, with a median age at diagnosis of 28 years. 18.12% had a family history of SLE, and concurrently with SLE, 32.50% had hypertension, and 11.25% had antiphospholipid syndrome. The most common clinical manifestation was joint involvement (68.12%), renal (49.37%) and hematological (43.75%) manifestations. Conclusions: SLE affects millions globally. Lack of awareness leads to delayed diagnoses, suboptimal management, and diminished quality of life. After analyzing 160 patients with SLE, their clinical, socioeconomic, and therapeutic characteristics are largely like other cohorts, with differences attributable to ethnic and geographical influences. Informing patients about SLE and providing reliable resources are essential for self-care. Awareness promotes research, therapies, and enhances medical care and the lives of patients globally.

Introducción: el lupus eritematoso sistémico (LES) es una enfermedad autoinmunitaria crónica que puede afectar a múltiples órganos y sistemas del cuerpo. Objetivo: describir las características sociodemográficas, clínicas y bioquímicas de la cohorte de pacientes Lupus-IMMS-México (LUPUS-IMMex) de un hospital de tercer nivel. Material y métodos: estudio descriptivo observacional de 160 pacientes con diagnóstico de LES de la cohorte mencionada. Se analizaron diversas variables al momento del diagnóstico. Para variables cuantitativas se aplicaron pruebas de normalidad y posteriormente medidas de tendencia central y dispersión de acuerdo con su distribución. Para variables categóricas se calcularon frecuencias y porcentajes. Resultados: 81.87% de los pacientes fueron del sexo femenino, con mediana de edad al diagnóstico de 28 años. El 18.12% tenían antecedentes familiares de LES y concomitante al LES, hipertensión (32.50%) y síndromes antifosfolípidos (11.25%). Las afecciones clínicas más frecuentes fueron la articular (68.12%), la renal (49.37%) y la hematológica (43.75%). Conclusiones: el LES afecta a millones de personas globalmente. La falta de conciencia lleva a diagnósticos tardíos, manejo deficiente y baja calidad de vida. Tras analizar 160 pacientes con LES, sus características clínicas, socioeconómicas y terapéuticas son mayormente similares a otras cohortes, con diferencias atribuibles a influencias étnicas y geográficas. Informar a los pacientes sobre el LES y brindar recursos confiables es esencial para el autocuidado. La sensibilización fomenta la investigación, las terapias y mejora la atención médica y la vida de pacientes a nivel global.

A cross sectional study assessing steatotic liver disease in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus.

Patients with immune-mediated inflammatory diseases are prone to steatotic liver disease (SLD), which has been observed in patients with psoriasis and hidradenitis suppurativa. We aimed to assess whether systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) was associated with SLD and to define factors associated with SLD in SLE. This was a cross-sectional study, we included 106 consecutive patients with SLE who were seen in the rheumatology clinic between June 2021 and March 2022 and we chose two sex-paired controls for each SLE. All the participants underwent FibroScan and anthropometric assessments. SLD was defined as a controlled attenuation parameter ≥ 275dB/m. Prevalence of SLD was lower in patients with SLE (21.7% vs 41.5%, p < 0.001). Patients with SLE and SLD had a lower frequency of hydroxychloroquine use (65% vs 84%, p = 0.04), and higher C3 levels [123mg/dl (IQR 102-136) vs 99mg/dl (IQR 78-121), p = 0.004]. Factors associated with SLD in SLE were body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, glucose, and C3; hydroxychloroquine use was a protective factor. On univariate analysis, SLE was associated with a reduced risk of SLD (OR 0.39, 95%CI 0.23-0.67); however, after adjusting for age, BMI, waist, glucose, triglycerides, high-density cholesterol, low-density cholesterol, leukocytes, and hydroxychloroquine, it was no longer associated (OR 0.43, 95%CI 0.10-1.91). In conclusion, the prevalence of SLD in patients with SLE was not higher than that in the general population, and SLE was not associated with SLD. The factors associated with SLD were anthropometric data, glucose, hydroxychloroquine, and C3 levels.

Experiencing pregnancy in the context of lupus and antiphospholipid syndrome: a grounded theory / Experimentando el embarazo en el contexto del lupus y del síndrome antifosfolípido: una teoría fundamentada / Vivenciando a gestação no contexto do lúpus e da síndrome antifosfolípide: uma teoria fundamentada

ABSTRACT Objective: To understand the meanings attributed to pregnancy in the context of Lupus and antiphospholipid syndrome by women and healthcare professionals. Method: Qualitative research, using Symbolic Interactionism as a theoretical framework and Grounded Theory, a constructivist perspective. Data were collected between January and August 2022, through online interviews with 27 women with Lupus located on the social network Facebook and in-person or remote interviews with 12 healthcare professionals. Results: The theoretical model constructed has two categories: "Equal conditions, distinct experiences: experiencing the gestational process" shows that obstetric complications and lack of connection with healthcare professionals trigger negative meanings to the experience; and "Therapeutic management interfering in the attribution of meanings to the experience", demonstrates that the way women interact with healthcare professionals and how they manage treatment favors a positive reframing. Final considerations: The meanings attributed to pregnancy are elaborated and modified according to the interpretation of previous and current experiences, healthcare trajectory and interactions with healthcare professionals. Previous guidance, planning, bonding and trust in healthcare professionals enable positive meanings, while obstetric complications, unqualified assistance and lack of bonding with professionals provide negative meanings.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Comprender los significados atribuidos al embarazo en el contexto del Lupus y del síndrome antifosfolípido por mujeres y profesionales de la salud. Método: Investigación cualitativa, que utilizó como marco teórico el Interaccionismo simbólico y metodológico, la Teoría Fundamentada, una vertiente constructivista. Los datos fueron recolectados entre enero y agosto de 2022, a través de entrevistas online a 27 mujeres con Lupus ubicadas en la red social Facebook y entrevistas presenciales o remotas a 12 profesionales de la salud. Resultados: El modelo teórico construido tiene dos categorías: "Condiciones iguales, experiencias diferentes: vivir el proceso gestacional" muestra que las complicaciones obstétricas y la falta de conexión con los profesionales de la salud desencadenan significados negativos a la experiencia; y Gestión terapéutica interfiriendo en la atribución de significados", demuestra que la forma en que las mujeres interactúan con los profesionales de la salud y cómo conducen el tratamiento favorece la resignificación positiva.. Consideraciones finales: Los significados atribuidos al embarazo son elaborados y modificados según la interpretación de experiencias pasadas y actuales, trayectoria de atención e interacciones con profesionales de la salud. La orientación previa, la planificación, la vinculación y la confianza en los profesionales de la salud posibilitan significados positivos, mientras que las complicaciones obstétricas, la asistencia no calificada y la falta de vínculo con los profesionales proporcionan significados negativos.

RESUMO Objetivo: Compreender os significados atribuídos à gravidez, no contexto do Lúpus e da Síndrome Antifosfolípide, por mulheres e profissionais de saúde. Método: Pesquisa qualitativa, que utilizou como referencial teórico o Interacionismo simbólico e metodológico, a Teoria Fundamentada nos Dados, vertente construtivista. Os dados foram coletados entre janeiro e agosto de 2022, mediante entrevistas on-line com 27 mulheres com Lúpus, localizadas na rede social Facebook e em entrevistas presenciais ou remotas com 12 profissionais de saúde. Resultados: O modelo teórico construído possui duas categorias: "Condições iguais, experiências distintas: vivenciando o processo gestacional" mostra que complicações obstétricas e ausência de vínculo com os profissionais de saúde desencadeiam significados negativos à experiência; e "O manejo terapêutico interferindo na atribuição dos significados à experiência" demonstra que a forma com que a mulher interage com os profissionais de saúde e conduz o tratamento favorece a ressignificação positiva. Considerações finais: Os significados atribuídos à gestação são elaborados e modificados conforme a interpretação de experiências anteriores e atuais, trajetória assistencial e interações com os profissionais de saúde. A orientação prévia, o planejamento, o vínculo e a confiança nos profissionais de saúde possibilitam significados positivos. Já, as complicações obstétricas, a assistência não qualificada e ausência de vínculo com os profissionais produzem significados negativos.

[Myocardial deformation evaluated by two-dimensional echocardiography in lupus patients at a national hospital]. / Deformación miocárdica evaluada por ecocardiografía bidimensional en pacientes lúpicos de un hospital nacional.

Background: Patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) are at high risk of cardiac compromise with high mortality. The subclinical diagnosis may improve their survival. Longitudinal myocardial deformation (strain) has been found to be useful in evaluating cardiac function in these patients. Objectives: Our aims were to evaluate myocardial function by analyzing the two-dimensional (2D) global longitudinal strain, to compare the longitudinal strain in SLE patients with controls, and to determine the correlation with SLE activity index. Material and Methods: 44 patients with SLE (50.0 ± 13 years) and 50 controls (49 ± 12 years) matched by age and sex, underwent transthoracic echocardiogram. Longitudinal strain was assessed using the speckle tracking method and SLE activity was estimated using the Systemic Lupus Erythematous Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI). A score of 4 or more, was defined as active SLE. Results: 2D global longitudinal strain was lower in patients with SLE than controls (- 17.3% ± 1.9% vs. -20%, ± 1.9% p = 0.00). The left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) had no specific differences in both groups in 2D (p = 0.650) or three-dimensional (3D) (p = 0.718). In lupus patients, SLEDAI ranged from 0 to 10, and 63.8% were inactive. Negative correlations were found between the SLEDAI score and 2D LVEF (Pearson's r = -0.372, p = 0.017); no correlations were found between the SLEDAI score and the 2D global longitudinal strain (Spearman's rho = - 0.091 p = 0.582). Conclusions: 2D global longitudinal strain was found to be decreased in the SLE group. This technique might can be a useful tool to assess cardiac function in these patiens.

Alopecia androgénica en una paciente con lupus eritematoso sistémico / Androgenic alopecia in a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus

El cabello no solo es una cuestión de imagen personal, a continuación, se expone un caso clínico de una paciente con alopecia androgénica y lupus eritematoso sistémico (LES) de larga data con resultados subóptimos luego de algunos tratamientos realizados con anterioridad, el manejo de la alopecia es un desafío médico pues no solo se trata de un padecimiento estético si no de posibles factores de riesgo para patologías psiquiátricas, por lo que es importante el diagnóstico y tratamiento oportunos. Existen numerosos tratamientos para la alopecia androgénica desde tratamientos tópicos, vía oral, mesoterapia, entre otros. En este caso en particular se presenta la respuesta satisfactoria tras el inicio de minoxidil vía oral y tópica.

Hair is not only a matter of personal image, below is a clinical case of a patient with long-standing androgenic alopecia and lupus with suboptimal results after some previous treatments, the management of alopecia is a medical challenge because it is not only an aesthetic condition but also possible risk factors for psychiatric pathologies, timely diagnosis and treatment is important. There are numerous treatments for androgenic alopecia from topical treatments, oral route and mesotherapy among others. In this particular case, a satisfactory response is presented after starting oral and topical minoxidil.

Caso clínico de enfermería: modelo de adaptación en adolescente con síndrome de Felty y Rhupus / Nursing Clinical Case: Model of Adaptation in Adolescent with Felty and Rhupus Syndrome / Relato de caso de enfermagem: modelo de adaptação em adolescente com síndrome de Felty e Rhupus

Introducción. El síndrome de Rhupus es la superposición de dos enfermedades autoinmunes, la artritis reumatoide o artritis idiopática juvenil y el lupus eritematoso sistémico, la prevalencia es de 7-401 por 100,000 niños. El síndrome de Felty se caracteriza por la tríada de artritis idiopática juvenil, esplenomegalia y neutropenia; padecer más de una patología reumática es un extraño fenómeno estimado entre el 0.01-2%. Objetivo. Describir el proceso de atención de enfermería integral en una adolescente con Rhupus y síndrome de Felty, bajo el modelo de adaptación de Callista Roy. Metodología. Caso clínico de enfermería en una paciente de 15 años seleccionada en hospitalización pediátrica, con previo consentimiento informado; intervenida a través del proceso de atención de enfermería estructurado según la taxonomía de la North American Nursing Diagnosis Association, la Clasificación de Resultados de Enfermería, y la Clasificación de Intervenciones de Enfermería, con intervenciones intrahospitalarias y seguimiento con tele-enfermería. Resultados. Mejoría de la ambulación y afrontamiento de problemas evidenciados por el aumento del bienestar de la paciente y la familia. Conclusiones. Ante una enfermedad desconocida, el proceso de atención de enfermería, con intervenciones directas y acompañamiento continuo, permite realizar una atención integral, a fin de lograr la adaptación de la paciente y su familia. Palabras clave: Adaptación Psicológica; Atención de Enfermería; Enfermería; Síndrome de Felty; Lupus Eritematoso Sistémico; Resiliencia Psicológica.

Introduction. Rhupus syndrome is the overlap of two autoimmune diseases, rheumatoid arthritis or juvenile idiopathic arthritis, and systemic lupus erythematosus, with a prevalence of 7-401 per 100,000 children. Felty's syndrome is characterized by the triad of juvenile idiopathic arthritis, splenomegaly, and neutropenia; experiencing more than one rheumatic pathology is a rare phenomenon estimated between 0.01-2%. Objective. Describe the comprehensive nursing care process in an adolescent with Rhupus and Felty's syndrome, under the adaptation model of Callista Roy. Methodology. Nursing case study of a 15-year-old patient selected in pediatric hospitalization, with prior informed consent; intervened through the structured nursing care process according to the taxonomy of the North American Nursing Diagnosis Association, the Nursing Outcomes Classification, and the Nursing Interventions Classification, with in-hospital interventions and follow-up through tele-nursing. Results. Improvement in ambulation and coping with problems evidenced by the increased well-being of the patient and the family. Conclusions. Faced with an unknown disease, the nursing care process, with direct interventions and continuous support, allows for comprehensive care to achieve the adaptation of the patient and her family. Keywords: Adaptation, Psychological; Nursing Care; Nursing; Felty Syndrome; Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic; Resilience, Psychological.

Introdução. A síndrome de Rhupus é a sobreposição de duas doenças autoimunes, artrite reumatoide ou artrite idiopática juvenil e lúpus eritematoso sistêmico, a prevalência é de 7-401 por 100,000 crianças. A síndrome de Felty é caracterizada pela tríade de artrite idiopática juvenil, esplenomegalia e neutropenia; sofrer de mais de uma patologia reumática é um fenômeno estranho estimado entre 0.01-2%. Objetivo. Descrever o processo de assistência integral de enfermagem em uma adolescente com Rhupus e síndrome de Felty, sob o modelo de adaptação de Callista Roy. Metodologia. Caso clínico de enfermagem em uma paciente de 15 anos selecionada em internação pediátrica, com prévio consentimento informado; ela teve intervenção por meio do processo de cuidado de enfermagem estruturado segundo a taxonomia da North American Nursing Diagnosis Association, a Classificação dos Resultados de Enfermagem e a Classificação das Intervenções de Enfermagem, com intervenções intra-hospitalares e acompanhamento com tele-enfermagem. Resultados. Melhora na deambulação e enfrentamento de problemas evidenciados pelo aumento do bem-estar do paciente e da família. Conclusões. Diante de uma doença desconhecida, o processo de assistência de enfermagem, com intervenções diretas e acompanhamento contínuo, permite um cuidado integral, de forma a alcançar a adaptação do paciente e de sua família. Palavras-chave: Adaptação Psicológica; Cuidados de Enfermagem; Enfermagem; Síndrome de Felty; Lúpus Eritematoso Sistêmico; Resiliência Psicológica.

Manifestaciones dermatológicas en pacientes con lupus eritematoso sistémico, estudio de 5 años

Introducción: Las manifestaciones dermatológicas constituyen un grupo fundamental dentro de la morbilidad extraarticular en pacientes con lupus eritematoso sistémico. Su importancia radica en la elevada frecuencia de presentación y en el papel diagnóstico de la enfermedad. Objetivo: Describir las manifestaciones dermatológicas identificadas en pacientes con diagnóstico de lupus eritematoso sistémico. Métodos: Investigación básica, descriptiva, transversal, que tuvo como universo a 87 pacientes con diagnóstico de lupus eritematoso sistémico, según criterios del Colegio Americano de Reumatología, atendidos durante el periodo junio 2017 - junio 2022 en la consulta externa de reumatología de la Clínica Metropolitana de la ciudad de Riobamba. La muestra quedó conformada por 72 pacientes a los cuales se les aplicó una encuesta para obtener información relacionada con las características generales de los pacientes y de la enfermedad. Resultados: Promedio de edad de 40,59 años, predominio de pacientes entre 40 y 49 años (30,56 %), del sexo femenino (95,83 %) y con tiempo de evolución entre 1 y 5 años (62,50 %). El 86,11 % de los pacientes refirió manifestaciones dermatológicas, el rash malar (74,19 %) y el livedo reticular (33,87 %) fueron las de mayor frecuencia de presentación. El 65,30 % de los casos usan protección solar, el bloqueador solar fue el más utilizado (61,70 %). Conclusiones: Las manifestaciones dermatológicas más frecuentes en el curso evolutivo del lupus fueron el rash malar, livedo reticular y la alopecia.

Introduction: Dermatological manifestations constitute a fundamental group within extra-articular morbidity in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus. Its importance lies in the high frequency of presentation and in the diagnostic role of the disease. Objective: To describe the dermatological manifestations identified in patients diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus. Methods: Basic, descriptive, cross-sectional research, whose universe was 87 patients diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus, according to the criteria of the American College of Rheumatology, treated during the period June 2017 - June 2022 in the rheumatology outpatient clinic of the Metropolitan Clinic. from the city of Riobamba. The sample was made up of 72 patients to whom a survey was applied to obtain information related to the general characteristics of the patients and the disease. Results: Average age of 40.59 years, predominance of patients between 40 and 49 years (30.56%), female (95.83%) and with evolution time between 1 and 5 years (62.50%). 86.11% of the patients reported dermatological manifestations, malar rash (74.19%) and livedo reticularis (33.87%) were the most frequently present. 65.30% of the cases used sun protection, being sunscreen the most used (61.70%). Conclusions: Dermatological manifestations are frequent in the evolutionary course of lupus, predominantly malar rash, livedo reticularis and alopecia.

Cutaneous lupus erythematosus: a review of etiopathogenic, clinical, diagnostic and therapeutic aspects

Abstract Cutaneous lupus erythematosus is an autoimmune disease of varied clinical expression, which may present as an exclusively cutaneous disease or be one of the multiple manifestations of systemic lupus erythematosus. Its classification includes acute, subacute, intermittent, chronic and bullous subtypes, which are usually identified based on clinical features and histopathological and laboratory findings. Other non-specific cutaneous manifestations may be associated with systemic lupus erythematosus and are usually related to disease activity. Environmental, genetic and immunological factors play a role in the pathogenesis of skin lesions in lupus erythematosus. Recently, considerable progress has been made in elucidating the mechanisms involved in their development, which allows for foreseeing future targets for more effective treatments. This review proposes to discuss the main etiopathogenic, clinical, diagnostic and therapeutic aspects of cutaneous lupus erythematosus, aiming to update internists and specialists from different areas.

Cognitive dysfunction in patients with childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus may impact treatment.

BACKGROUND: Cognitive dysfunction (CD) is a widespread manifestation in adult systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients, but this subject is rarely examined in patients with childhood-onset SLE (cSLE). This study aimed to assess the frequency of CD, its associations with lupus clinical manifestations and its impact on the health-related quality of life (HRQL) in young adult cSLE patients. METHODS: We evaluated 39 cSLE patients older than 18 years. They underwent a rheumatologic evaluation and extensive neuropsychological assessment, encompassing all cognitive domains described by the American College of Rheumatology. HRQL was assessed with the WHOOQOL-BREEF, General Activities of Daily Living Scale (GADL) and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus-specific quality-of-life instrument (SLEQOL). The activity of SLE was evaluated with the modified sle disease activity index (sledai-2k). RESULTS: Impairment in at least one cognitive domain was found in 35 (87.2%) patients. The most compromised domains were attention (64.1%), memory (46.2%), and executive functions (38.5%). Patients with cognitive impairment were older, had more accumulated damage and had worse socioeconomic status. Regarding the association between cognitive dysfunction and HRQL, memory impairment was correlated with worse environmental perception and a worse relationship with the treatment. CONCLUSION: In this study, the frequency of CD in cSLE patients was as high as that in the adult SLE population. CD can significantly impact the response of cSLE patients to treatment, justifying preventive measures in the care of this population.

Comedogenic lupus: a rare variant of chronic cutaneous lupus erythematosus - case series

Abstract Background: Comedogenic lupus is an uncommon variant of cutaneous lupus, clinically characterized by the presence of comedones, papules and erythematous-infiltrated plaques, cysts and scars in photo-exposed areas, mimicking acne vulgaris and acneiform eruptions. Objectives: To report clinicopathological characteristics of patients with comedogenic lupus in a tertiary dermatology service over a 15-year period and review cases described in the literature. Methods: Retrospective study of patients with clinical and histopathological diagnoses of comedogenic lupus between the years 2006 and 2021. The literature search was carried out in the PubMed and VHL Regional Portal databases, using the terms: ''comedogenic lupus'' and ''acneiform lupus'' in Portuguese and English. Results: Five patients were diagnosed during the described period, all female, with a mean age of 56.6 years. Smoking was observed in three cases, as well as pruritus. The most affected site was the face, especially the pre-auricular, malar and chin regions. Follicular plugs, epidermal thinning and liquefaction degeneration of the basal layer were predominant histopathological findings. Hydroxychloroquine was used as the first-line treatment; however, other medications were used, such as dapsone, methotrexate, tretinoin cream, and topical corticosteroids. The literature search identified 17 cases, with a mean age of 38.9 years, 82% of which were women. Only 23% had a diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus. Hydroxychloroquine was the most recommended systemic medication. Study limitations: Retrospective, single-center study. The literature search was carried out in two databases. Conclusions: Dermatologists should be aware of acneiform conditions with poor response to the usual treatment. Early diagnosis and treatment reduce the risk of unaesthetic scars.

Cutaneous lupus erythematosus: a review of etiopathogenic, clinical, diagnostic and therapeutic aspects.

Cutaneous lupus erythematosus is an autoimmune disease of varied clinical expression, which may present as an exclusively cutaneous disease or be one of the multiple manifestations of systemic lupus erythematosus. Its classification includes acute, subacute, intermittent, chronic and bullous subtypes, which are usually identified based on clinical features and histopathological and laboratory findings. Other non-specific cutaneous manifestations may be associated with systemic lupus erythematosus and are usually related to disease activity. Environmental, genetic and immunological factors play a role in the pathogenesis of skin lesions in lupus erythematosus. Recently, considerable progress has been made in elucidating the mechanisms involved in their development, which allows for foreseeing future targets for more effective treatments. This review proposes to discuss the main etiopathogenic, clinical, diagnostic and therapeutic aspects of cutaneous lupus erythematosus, aiming to update internists and specialists from different areas.

A better self-efficacy is predictive of better health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: data from the Almenara Lupus Cohort.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the possible predictive value of self-efficacy on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in patients with SLE. METHODS: Patients with SLE from the Almenara Lupus Cohort were included. Self-efficacy was ascertained with the six domains from the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) self-efficacy for managing chronic conditions. For PROMIS domains, a score of 50 is the average for a clinical population (people with a chronic condition), a higher score indicates that the respondent has greater self-efficacy. HRQoL was ascertained with the physical and mental component summary (PCS and MCS) measures of the Short-Form 36 (SF-36). Generalised estimating equations were performed, using as outcome the PCS or MCS in the subsequent visit, and the self-efficacy domain in the previous visit; multivariable models were adjusted for possible confounders. The confounders were measured in the same visit as the self-efficacy domain. RESULTS: Two-hundred and nine patients for a total of 564 visits were included; 194 (92.8%) patients were women and mean age at diagnosis was 36.4 (14.0) years. In the multivariable models, a better PCS was predicted by a better self-efficacy for managing symptoms, managing medications and treatments and managing social interactions and general self-efficacy; a better MCS was predicted by a better self-efficacy for managing daily activities, managing symptoms, managing medications and treatments and managing social interactions. CONCLUSION: A better self-efficacy is predictive of subsequent better HRQoL, even after adjustment for possible confounders. These results should encourage clinicians to develop strategies to improve self-efficacy in patients with SLE.

Comedogenic lupus: a rare variant of chronic cutaneous lupus erythematosus - case series.

BACKGROUND: Comedogenic lupus is an uncommon variant of cutaneous lupus, clinically characterized by the presence of comedones, papules and erythematous-infiltrated plaques, cysts and scars in photo-exposed areas, mimicking acne vulgaris and acneiform eruptions. OBJECTIVES: To report clinicopathological characteristics of patients with comedogenic lupus in a tertiary dermatology service over a 15-year period and review cases described in the literature. METHODS: Retrospective study of patients with clinical and histopathological diagnoses of comedogenic lupus between the years 2006 and 2021. The literature search was carried out in the PubMed and VHL Regional Portal databases, using the terms: "comedogenic lupus" and "acneiform lupus" in Portuguese and English. RESULTS: Five patients were diagnosed during the described period, all female, with a mean age of 56.6 years. Smoking was observed in three cases, as well as pruritus. The most affected site was the face, especially the pre-auricular, malar and chin regions. Follicular plugs, epidermal thinning and liquefaction degeneration of the basal layer were predominant histopathological findings. Hydroxychloroquine was used as the first-line treatment; however, other medications were used, such as dapsone, methotrexate, tretinoin cream, and topical corticosteroids. The literature search identified 17 cases, with a mean age of 38.9 years, 82% of which were women. Only 23% had a diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus. Hydroxychloroquine was the most recommended systemic medication. STUDY LIMITATIONS: Retrospective, single-center study. The literature search was carried out in two databases. CONCLUSIONS: Dermatologists should be aware of acneiform conditions with poor response to the usual treatment. Early diagnosis and treatment reduce the risk of unaesthetic scars.

Tratamiento con rituximab en 2 pacientes con lupus eritematoso sistémico pediátrico

Introducción . El LES pediátrico (LESp) representa el 15% de todos los pacientes con LES. La afectación renal y neuropsiquiátrica es más agresivo en el LESp, siendo la afectación de un solo órgano la forma clínica de aparición más común. Formas de presentación como infarto cerebral y serositis son manifestaciones poco frecuentes en el LESp. El tratamiento de un LESp no difiere al de las formas adultas y el arsenal terapéutico es el mismo. El rituximab (RTX) es un agente biológico utilizado a nivel mundial en LES con excelentes resultados, sin embargo, aún no existe consenso sobre su eficacia real en LESp. Objetivos . Presentación de 2 casos de LESp con infarto cerebral y serositis como forma de presentación, que no respondieron a la terapia convencional pero sí a RTX. Métodos . Reporte de caso, con descripción del cuadro clínico, método diagnóstico y forma de tratamiento. Resultados. Primer caso: mujer de 16 años que consulta por cefalea progresiva con crisis tónico-clónica. La tomografía cerebral mostró un infarto cerebral frontoparietal izquierdo. En el examen físico se encontró livedo reticularis en miembros inferiores, dolor articular, caída del cabello y úlceras orales. Las pruebas revelaron anemia normocítica, trombocitopenia, disminución del complemento, 1/320 ANA con patrón homogéneo, 3.200 mg de proteína en muestra de orina de 24 horas y anticuerpos antifosfolipídicos negativos. Se realizó diagnóstico de LESp con compromiso renal, neurológico y hematológico, decidiendo uso de metilprednisolona 1 g EV diario durante 3 días, para luego pasar a ciclofosfamida 1 g EV mensual por 6 meses. Después de 3 meses persisten proteinuria, fatiga y artralgias. Por este motivo, se decidió utilizar rituximab a una dosis de 375 mg / m2 en días 1 y 15 cada 6 meses. Tras 4 infusiones, la proteinuria desapareció, así como las artralgias y malestar general. Actualmente mantiene scores SLEDAI-2K en remisión, con dosis bajas de prednisona. Segundo caso: niño de 10 años, presentó dolor abdominal difuso con distensión asociada de inicio más o menos abrupto. Se agregó cansancio, dificultad para respirar y palpitaciones. Una radiografía simple de abdomen no mostró niveles hidroaéreos, pero la placa torácica demostró derrame pleural bilateral con agrandamiento de la silueta cardíaca. Un ecocardiograma y una ecografía abdominal reveló derrame pericárdico y ascitis respectivamente. Al examen físico se observó palidez general, edema translúcido de miembros inferiores, roce pericárdico y disminución del soplo vesicular en ambas bases pulmonares. Las pruebas de laboratorio mostraron leucopenia, linfopenia, anemia normocítica, reactantes de fase aguda elevados, ANA 1/560, anti-ADN 280 U / mL, complemento disminuido, transaminasas elevadas, urea y creatinina normales. Se diagnosticó LESp y se pulsó con metilprednisolona 30 mg / kg / dosis durante 4 días, para luego pasar a micofenolato 600 mg / m2 diarios. Inicialmente hubo mejoría, pero después de 2 meses reapareció la serositis inicial. Se decidió usar rituximab 375 mg / m2. Después de la segunda infusión la serositis desapareció, normalizándose valores de hemograma, complemento y transaminasas. Actualmente se encuentra en remisión, con dosis bajas de prednisona. Conclusión . Los casos presentados debutaron con infarto cerebral y serositis, mostraron ANA elevados títulos y disminución del complemento. Ambos casos mejoraron con rituximab tras el fracaso a ciclofosfamida y micofenolato. Se obtuvo el consentimiento informado de los padres y los pacientes.

Introduction . Pediatric systemic lupus erythematosus (pSLE) represents 15% of all SLE patients. Renal and neuropsychiatric involvement are more aggressive in pSLE, and single organ involvement is the most commonly found clinical form. Conditions such as cerebral infarction and serositis are unusual manifestation of pSLE. Therapy for pSLE is not different from that for the adult forms, and the therapy armamentarium is the same. Rituximab (RTX) is a worldwide used biological for SLE, with excellent results; however, there is still no consensus with respect to is real efficacy in pSLE. Objectives . Presentation of two pSLE cases with cerebral infarction and serositis as main characteristics, who did not respond to conventional therapy, but who did respond to RTX. Methods . Case report, describing the clinical presentation, diagnostic methods, and therapy approach used. Results . First case: This is a sixteen-year-old girl who was brought because of progressing headache and a tonic-clonic crisis. The brain CT scan showed a left frontoparietal cerebral infarction. Physical examination revealed livedo reticularis in both legs, joint pain, hair loss, and mouth ulcers. Laboratory tests revealed normocytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, reduced complement, 1/320 ANA with a homogeneous pattern, 3.200 mg 24-hour proteinuria, and negative anti-phospholipidic antibodies. A pSLE diagnosis was made, with renal, neurologic, and hematologic involvement, so it was decided to use methylprednisolone, 1 gram IV per day for three days, and then switch to cyclophosphamide 1 g IV per month for 6 months. After three months, proteinuria, fatigue, and arthralgia persisted. For this reason, it was decided to administer rituximab, 375 mg/m2 in days 1 and 15, every six months. After four infusions, proteinuria, joint pain and malaise all disappeared. Nowadays this patient maintains SLEDAI-K scores in remission, and she is also receiving low-dose prednisone. Second case: This is a ten-year-old boy, who presented with abrupt diffuse abdominal pain associated with (abdominal) distention. Other manifestations were tiredness, shortness of breath, and palpitations. A plain abdomen X-ray film did not show hydro-aerial levels, but the chest X-ray film showed bilateral pleural effusion, and enlarged cardiac silhouette. Cardiac ultrasonography and abdominal ultrasonography revealed pericardial effusion and ascites, respectively. Findings in physical examination showed pallor translucid edema of the legs, pericardial throbbing, and reduced respiratory sounds in both pulmonary bases. Laboratory tests revealed leukopenia, lymphopenia, normocytic anemia, elevated acute phase reactants, ANA 1/560, anti-DNA 280 U/mL, reduced complement, elevated transaminases, and normal urea and creatinine. pSLE was diagnosed, and therapy instituted was methylprednisolone 30 mg/Kg/dose for 4 days, then it was switched to mycophenolate 600 mg/m2 per day. There was improvement initially, but after two months, serositis reappeared. Then it was decided to start rituximab 375 mg/m2. After the second infusion, serositis disappeared, and CBC, complement, and transaminase values returned to normal. Nowadays the patient is in remission, and he is receiving low-dose prednisone. Conclusión . Both presented cases featured cerebral infarction and serositis. They also showed high ANA titers and reduced complement. Both patients improved their condition with rituximab after failure with cyclophosphamide and mycophenolate. Informed consent from both parents and patients was obtained.

Coincidencia de Rhupus y embarazo. Reporte de caso / Coincidence of Rhupus and pregnancy. Case report

Resumen ANTECEDENTES: Si bien el lupus eritematoso sistémico y la artritis reumatoide son enfermedades suficientemente descritas, no lo es la asociación de estas, que se denomina rhupus, que hace referencia a la manifestación clínica resultante de ambas enfermedades enmascaradas que dificulta el diagnóstico y tratamiento. CASO CLÍNICO: Paciente de 37 años que inició con un cuadro con características de lupus eritematoso sistémico y artritis reumatoide hacía 16 años. Se encontró con alteraciones en los estudios de laboratorio y con hallazgos radiológicos que apoyaron el cuadro de rhupus. Por lo anterior se documenta la evolución de este padecimiento, que coincide con su embarazo y después de éste. CONCLUSIONES: La aparición simultánea de lupus eritematoso sistémico y artritis reumatoide, aun cuando fue reportada desde hace décadas, es una enfermedad rara en frecuencia, por lo que hay escasa información del rhupus solo y más aún en coincidencia con el embarazo.

Abstract BACKGROUND: Although systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis are sufficiently described diseases, the association of these is not, and is called rhupus, which refers to the clinical manifestation resulting from both diseases masked, making diagnosis and treatment difficult. CLINICAL CASE: 37-year-old patient who started with a clinical picture with features of systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis 16 years ago. She was found to have alterations in laboratory studies and radiological findings that supported the diagnosis of rheupus. Therefore, the evolution of this condition is documented, which coincides with and after her pregnancy. CONCLUSIONS: The simultaneous occurrence of systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis, even though it was reported decades ago, is a rare disease in frequency, so there is scarce information on rhupus alone and even more so in coincidence with pregnancy.

Anti-ribosomal P (anti-P) antibodies in patients with autoimmune hepatitis

ABSTRACT Objective Published studies have shown associations between anti-ribosomal P (anti-P) antibody and systemic lupus erythematosus with hepatic manifestations. This has been reported also in autoimmune hepatitis. However, the consistency of the latter association remains controversial. This study aimed to evaluate the frequency of anti-P antibodies in autoimmune hepatitis using two different immunoassays. Methods One-hundred and seventy-seven patients with autoimmune hepatitis were screened, and 142 were analyzed for anti-P antibody positivity. The samples were first analyzed using two different immunoassays: enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and chemiluminescence and then compared with a group of 60 patients with systemic lupus erythematous. The positive samples were subjected to western blot analysis. Results Anti-P was found in 5/142 autoimmune hepatitis cases (3.5%) by chemiluminescence and in none by ELISA. Among the five chemiluminescence-positive autoimmune hepatitis samples, on anti-P western blot analysis one was negative, two were weakly positive, and two were positive. In contrast, anti-P was detected in 10/60 patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (16.7%) and presented higher chemiluminescence units than the autoimmune hepatitis samples. Conclusion A low frequency of anti-P antibodies was observed in autoimmune hepatitis, suggesting that this test is not useful for the diagnosis or management of this disease.

The continuous increase in the number of systemic lupus erythematosus cases in Brazil in the COVID-19 era

Abstract This study aims to reevaluate and compare the data from the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS) on the number of diagnoses of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in the pre-pandemic period with those in the pandemic period, as well as to compare the first year (2020) of the COVID-19 pandemic in Brazil with the last year (2021), to update the data, and to verify whether SLE disease control measures were effective in 2021. There was a consistent and significant increase in the incidence of SLE cases all over Brazil between the first and second pandemic years and between the pre-pandemic triennium and the second pandemic year. Therefore, it is inescapable to have larger clinical studies with different populations to better understand the relationship between these two conditions and find measures to improve the control of this disease.

Lupus pernio vs. lupic perniosis: a case report

Introduction: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease that is difficult to diagnose due to the wide array of signs and symptoms it displays that may be associated to multiple clinical conditions, including perniosis (a rare inflammatory condition), lupus pernio (a manifestation of sarcoidosis), and lupus perniosis (a form of SLE), which can be easily mistaken. Case description: A 29-year-old Colombian mestizo woman with no family history of autoimmune, inflammatory or cutaneous diseases was diagnosed with SLE after ruling out several differential diagnoses. Although the patient presented with features of lupus pernioticus (lupus perniosis), it was established that she had lupus pernio, a type of sarcoidosis. The patient was given the indicated treatment, which led to an improvement in her quality of life. Conclusion: Based on the epidemiology, clinical history and histopathologic findings, it was possible to establish that the patient presented with lupus perniosis and not lupus pernio. In that regard, considering that these three conditions (perniosis, lupus pernio and lupic perniosis) can be easily confused, the present case highlights the importance of a thorough clinical evaluation and precise use of diagnostic terms, because these are three different conditions despite their similar names.

Introducción. El lupus eritematoso sistémico (LES) es una enfermedad autoin-munitaria difícil de diagnosticar debido a la gran variedad de síntomas y signos que ocasionan las múltiples condiciones clínicas que puede provocar, tales como la perniosis (una condición inflamatoria rara), el lupus pernio (una manifestación de la sarcoidosis) y la perniosis lúpica (una forma de LES), las cuales pueden ser fácilmente confundidas. Presentación del caso. Mujer colombiana de 29 años, mestiza y sin antecedente familiar de enfermedades autoinmunes, inflamatorias o cutáneas, quien luego del descarte de varios diagnósticos diferenciales, fue diagnosticada con LES. Aunque la paciente presentó características de lupus perniótico (perniosis lúpica), se estableció que presentaba lupus pernio, un tipo de sarcoidosis. A la paciente se suministró el tratamiento indicado, con lo cual logró una mejoría en sus condiciones de vida. Conclusión. Considerando la epidemiología, la historia clínica y los hallazgos histopatológicos, se puede establecer que la paciente presentó perniosis lúpica y no lupus pernio. En este sentido, teniendo en cuenta que la perniosis, el lupus pernio y la perniosis lúpica pueden confundirse, el presente caso pone de manifiesto la importancia de hacer una evaluación clínica completa y usar los términos diagnósticos más precisos, pues aunque sean similares en nombre, estas son tres condiciones diferentes.

Use of PET/CT as a diagnostic tool in various clinical scenarios related to systemic lupus erythematosus

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a systemic disease mediated by immune complexes of unknown aetiology that generates excessive production of autoantibodies against components of the cell nucleus, generating multisystemic involvement affecting organs or systems such as the central nervous, cardiovascular, haematolymphoid, musculoskeletal, kidney, serous, skin and subcutaneous tissue cells, among others. 2-Fluoro-2-deoxyglucose (FDG) is a glucose analogue that has been shown to be a useful diagnostic tool to establish the initial systemic involvement of this disease and response to the various treatments used.

El lupus eritematoso sistémico (LES) es una enfermedad sistémica mediada por inmunocomplejos de etiología desconocida, la cual genera una producción excesiva de autoanticuerpos contra componentes del núcleo celular. Esto último conlleva un compromiso multisistémico que afecta a órganos o sistemas como el nervioso central, el cardiovascular, el hematolinfoide, el musculoesquelético, el rinón, las serosas, la piel y el tejido celular subcutáneo, entre otros. La 2-fluoro-2-desoxiglucosa (FDG) es un análogo de la glucosa que ha mostrado ser una herramienta diagnostica útil para establecer el compromiso sistémico inicial de esta enfermedad y la respuesta a los diversos tratamientos.