Accelerated atherosclerosis in Anti-Neutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibody-Associated Vasculitis: case report.

Accelerated atherosclerosis has been identified as a complication of multiple autoimmune diseases, among which Anti-Neutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibody-Associated Vasculitis stands out. We describe the case of a 60-year-old patient with a history of hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and chronic kidney disease of unknown etiology, who presented two acute coronary syndromes with only a six-month difference. Rapid progression of coronary involvement was evidenced, along with increased markers of inflammatory response, usual interstitial pneumonia on tomography, and positive anti-myeloperoxidase antibodies (anti-MPO), leading to the diagnosis of microscopic polyangiitis (MPA). In these cases, timely diagnostic suspicion is crucial, as early treatment significantly impacts the course and prognosis of the disease.

Usual interstitial pneumopathy in a patient with hypersensitivity pneumonitis and microscopic polyangiitis. Case report.

One of the most frequent diffuse interstitial lung diseases is hypersensitivity pneumonitis. It is related to exposure to diverse antigens, causing fibrosis in advanced stages, making the differential diagnosis with interstitial pulmonary fibrosis difficult as it overlaps with the usual interstitial pneumonia pattern. On the other hand, there are interstitial lung diseases associated with ANCA, such as microscopic polyangiitis, which is also related to the usual interstitial pneumonia pattern. We present the case of a 74-year-old male patient with chronic dyspnea, history of smoking and exposure to organic particles, in addition to a pattern suggestive of moderately severe restriction. The diagnosis was confirmed by histology of hypersensitivity pneumonitis by presenting granules, however, anti MPO and p-ANCA positivity was found, integrating the simultaneous diagnosis of microscopic polyangiitis. This is a case of difficult diagnosis since these pathologies have not been previously reported to coexist.

Rituximab treatment in ANCA-associated vasculitis patients: outcomes of a real-life experience from an observational cohort.

Rituximab is a first-line therapy in patients with anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis (AAV). Among previous studies evaluating its efficacy, the Hispanic/Latino population has been underrepresented. This study aimed to assess the outcomes of AAV patients treated with rituximab in a tertiary care center in Mexico. This is a retrospective cohort study including patients with granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA), microscopic polyangiitis (MPA), or renal-limited vasculitis (RLV), who received at least one dose of rituximab (induction or maintenance therapy) from January 2014 to October 2020. Demographic, clinical, serological, histopathological, and treatment-related variables were retrieved. Outcomes were the rate of remission at 6 months during induction and the rate of relapses during maintenance. Damage, serious infections, and death were assessed. Differences between patients with and without remission were analyzed. Forty-two patients received rituximab, 34 of them as induction to remission. Twenty-two patients (65%) achieved remission after 6 months. Patients who achieved remission were younger than those who did not (50 vs. 60 years, p = 0.03). During induction, severe infections, most frequently pneumonia, occurred in 9 (26%), and one patient died. Twenty-four patients received rituximab as maintenance; of them, 23 (96%) achieved complete response, and 8 (33%) experienced relapses (median follow-up time 19 months). During maintenance, severe infections (pneumonia) occurred in 5 patients (21%), and 3 of them (13%) died. In this observational cohort study, the outcomes were similar to the ones reported in other populations, whereas severe infections were frequent and associated with mortality. Key Points • In this study, the outcomes of 42 Mexican patients with ANCA-associated vasculitis treated with rituximab were assessed in a real-life setting. • At 6 months, 65% of the patients achieved remission with rituximab, especially those younger than 50 years of age. • During maintenance therapy with rituximab, 96% of the patients achieved complete response, and 33% experienced relapses. • Severe infections, mostly pneumonia, occurred in 26% of patients during induction and 21% of patients during maintenance therapy with rituximab.

Compromiso pulmonar en vasculitis asociadas a anticuerpos anticitoplasma de neutrófilos / Pulmonary manifestations of anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody associated vasculitis

This article reviews the pulmonary manifestations of anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody associated vasculitis (AAV). Its frequency in the different phenotypes of the disease, clinical manifestations and updated therapeutic recommendations are reviewed, aiming to alert the medical community about the existence of these diseases. We pretend to stimulate a timely suspicion, diagnostic precision, and the implementation of effective therapies, to reduce the eventual sequelae derived from a diagnostic omission or an inappropriate treatment for the different clinical scenarios in which these diseases appear.

Peripheral ulcerative keratitis as presenting manifestation of systemic microscopic polyangiitis: a case report / Ceratite ulcerativa periférica como manifestação de poliangiíte microscópica sistêmica: relato de caso

ABSTRACT Microscopic polyangiitis is a rare autoimmune disease of unknown etiology, characterized by inflammation and necrosis of blood vessels. It forms a part of the antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitides-a heterogeneous group of disorders characterized by vasculitis. It is a systemic disease affecting multiple organs. The patients may present with a wide variety of symptoms. Ocular manifestations may present as its initial clinical symptoms, necessitating a multidisciplinary approach for reducing the morbidity and mortality. Early diagnosis aids in the formulation of appropriate treatment and prevention of further complications. Aggressive treatment, including surgery, is often necessary to limit structural damage and preserve visual function. We present the case of an 82-year-old woman who initially presented with peripheral ulcerative keratitis that led to the diagnosis of microscopic polyangiitis.

RESUMO A poliangeíte microscópica é uma doença autoimune rara de etiologia desconhecida, caracterizada por inflamação e necrose dos vasos sanguíneos. Faz parte das vasculites associadas a anticorpos citoplasmáticos antineutrófilos - um grupo heterogêneo de doenças caracterizadas por vasculite. É uma doença sistêmica que afeta vários órgãos. Os pacientes podem apresentar uma grande variedade de sintomas. As manifestações oculares podem apresentar-se como seus sintomas clínicos iniciais, necessitando de abordagem multidisciplinar para redução da morbimortalidade. O diagnóstico precoce ajuda na formulação do tratamento adequado e na prevenção de complicações futuras. O tratamento agressivo, incluindo cirurgia, muitas vezes é necessário para limitar o dano estrutural e preservar a função visual. Apresentamos o caso de uma mulher de 82 anos que inicialmente apresentou ceratite ulcerativa periférica que levou ao diagnóstico de poliangite microscópica.

Cost-Effectiveness of Rituximab (Fixed Schedule vs Tailored Dose) Compared With Azathioprine Maintenance Therapy in Adults With Generalized Antineutrophil Cytoplasm Antibody-Associated Vasculitis in Colombia.

OBJECTIVES: Azathioprine has been the therapy of choice for the maintenance of remission in patients with antineutrophil cytoplasm antibody (ANCA)-associated systemic vasculitis, but recent studies show that rituximab could be more effective. To evaluate the cost-effectiveness of azathioprine, fixed-schedule rituximab, and tailored-dose rituximab for ANCA-associated systemic vasculitis. METHODS: A Markov model from the perspective of the Colombian healthcare system was designed with annual cycles and a 5-year time horizon, charting the following states: remission, minor relapse, major relapse, and death. The discount rate was 5%. Transition probabilities were obtained from a systematic literature review. The costs (1 US dollar = 2956 Colombian pesos in 2018) were estimated based on national drug registries and official fee manuals for procedures, along with other resources. The main outcomes were quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) taken from the Tufts registry. Univariate and multivariate sensitivity analyses were performed. RESULTS: Final costs were $1446 for azathioprine, $4898 for tailored-dose rituximab, and $6311 for fixed-schedule rituximab. QALYs gained were 3.18, 4.08, and 3.98, respectively. Rituximab was cost-effective (cost per incremental QALY gained: $4919, and $6865), and tailored-dose administration had a lower cost. Sensitivity analyses did not affect the results. CONCLUSIONS: Tailored-dose rituximab was the most cost-effective treatment for ANCA-associated vasculitis. Azathioprine presented worse effectiveness and lower cost, and fixed-schedule rituximab was dominated by tailored-dose rituximab.

Classification of ANCA-associated vasculitis: differences based on ANCA specificity and clinicopathologic phenotype.

The classification of vasculitis according to a schema with universal acceptance is challenging, given the heterogeneous and protean nature of these diseases. Formal nomenclature and classification criteria for anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis (AAV) have suffered several changes since their first description; none provides comprehensive diagnostic and classification criteria. Different factors account for the difficulties in the classification of vasculitis, including the incomplete understanding of the pathogenesis, the multisystemic nature of the disease, the non-specific patterns of vascular involvement, the overlap between entities, and the presence of various classification systems. The present article reviews the classification of AAV considering different points of view, including clinical, serologic, pathogenetic, organ predilection, therapeutic, and prognostic factors, and provides perspectives on future challenges in the understanding of AAV. There is an unmet need for a unifying view of the disease spectrum that considers the constantly evolving paradigms.

Clinical characteristics and prognostic factors in an argentinian cohort with ANCA-associated vasculitis / Características clínicas y factores pronósticos en una cohorte argentina de vasculitis asociada a ANCA

Abstract ANCA-associated vasculitis is a heterogeneous group of rare autoimmune conditions of unknown cause. Clinical characteristics and prognostic factors were analyzed in 47 patients: 20 (42.5%) with granulomatosis with polyangiitis, 17 (36.2%) with microscopic polyangiitis, 6 (12.8%) with renal-limited vasculitis, and 4 (8.5%) with eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis. Mean age at diagnosis was 53.5 ± 16.5 years and the median of BVAS (Birmingham Vasculitis Activity Score) was 14 (4-42). The most frequent clinical manifesta tions were: general in 44 (93.6%), renal in 30 (63.8%) and respiratory in 28 (59.6%). All received corticosteroids at the beginning of treatment. Intravenous cyclophosphamide was associated in 20 (42.5%) and oral route in 14 (29.8%); azathioprine in 3 (6.4%) and rituximab in 2 (4.2%). At a median follow-up of 35.5 months (range 0.14- 234), 21 relapses were recorded in 14 patients. Overall mortality was 3.5 deaths per 100 patient-year in the whole group. Those over 55 years old, the presence of alveolar hemorrhage, those with FFS (Five Factor Score) of 2, and patients with MPA had poor prognosis. Renal involvement, ANCA pattern and BVAS were not associated to a poorer prognosis.

Resumen Las vasculitis asociadas a ANCA son un grupo heterogéneo de entidades autoinmunes, poco frecuentes, de etiología desconocida. Analizamos las características clínicas y factores pronóstico en 47 pacientes: 20 (42.5%) granulomatosis con poliangeítis, 17 (36.2%) poliangeítis microscópica, 6 (12.8%) vasculitis limitada al riñón y 4 (8.5%) granulomatosis eosinofílica con poliangeítis. La edad promedio al diagnóstico fue 53.5 ± 16.5 años y la mediana de BVAS (Birmingham Vasculitis Activity Score) 14 (4-42). Las manifestaciones clínicas más frecuentes fueron: generales en 44 (93.6%), renales 30 (63.8%) y respiratorias en 28 (59.6%). Todos recibieron corticoides al inicio del tratamiento. Se asoció ciclofosfamida endovenosa en 20 (42.5%) y oral en 14 (29.8%); azatioprina en 3 (6.4%) y rituximab en 2 (4.2%). En una mediana de seguimiento de 35.5 meses (rango 0.14-234), se registraron 21 recaídas en 14 pacientes. La mortalidad fue 3.5 por cien pacientes-año en todo el grupo. Los mayores de 55 años, con presencia de hemorragia alveolar, FFS (Five Factor Score) de 2, y los casos con poliangeítis microscópica tuvieron peor pronóstico. El compromiso renal, el patrón de ANCA y el BVAS no se asociaron a peor pronóstico.

Clinical characteristics and prognostic factors in an Argentinian cohort with ANCA-associated vasculitis.

ANCA-associated vasculitis is a heterogeneous group of rare autoimmune conditions of unknown cause. Clinical characteristics and prognostic factors were analyzed in 47 patients: 20 (42.5%) with granulomatosis with polyangiitis, 17 (36.2%) with microscopic polyangiitis, 6 (12.8%) with renal-limited vasculitis, and 4 (8.5%) with eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis. Mean age at diagnosis was 53.5 ± 16.5 years and the median of BVAS (Birmingham Vasculitis Activity Score) was 14 (4-42). The most frequent clinical manifestations were: general in 44 (93.6%), renal in 30 (63.8%) and respiratory in 28 (59.6%). All received corticosteroids at the beginning of treatment. Intravenous cyclophosphamide was associated in 20 (42.5%) and oral route in 14 (29.8%); azathioprine in 3 (6.4%) and rituximab in 2 (4.2%). At a median follow-up of 35.5 months (range 0.14-234), 21 relapses were recorded in 14 patients. Overall mortality was 3.5 deaths per 100 patient-year in the whole group. Those over 55 years old, the presence of alveolar hemorrhage, those with FFS (Five Factor Score) of 2, and patients with MPA had poor prognosis. Renal involvement, ANCA pattern and BVAS were not associated to a poorer prognosis.

Las vasculitis asociadas a ANCA son un grupo heterogéneo de entidades autoinmunes, poco frecuentes, de etiología desconocida. Analizamos las características clínicas y factores pronóstico en 47 pacientes: 20 (42.5%) granulomatosis con poliangeítis, 17 (36.2%) poliangeítis microscópica, 6 (12.8%) vasculitis limitada al riñón y 4 (8.5%) granulomatosis eosinofílica con poliangeítis. La edad promedio al diagnóstico fue 53.5 ± 16.5 años y la mediana de BVAS (Birmingham Vasculitis Activity Score) 14 (4-42). Las manifestaciones clínicas más frecuentes fueron: generales en 44 (93.6%), renales 30 (63.8%) y respiratorias en 28 (59.6%). Todos recibieron corticoides al inicio del tratamiento. Se asoció ciclofosfamida endovenosa en 20 (42.5%) y oral en 14 (29.8%); azatioprina en 3 (6.4%) y rituximab en 2 (4.2%). En una mediana de seguimiento de 35.5 meses (rango 0.14-234), se registraron 21 recaídas en 14 pacientes. La mortalidad fue 3.5 por cien pacientes-año en todo el grupo. Los mayores de 55 años, con presencia de hemorragia alveolar, FFS (Five Factor Score) de 2, y los casos con poliangeítis microscópica tuvieron peor pronóstico. El compromiso renal, el patrón de ANCA y el BVAS no se asociaron a peor pronóstico.

Interstitial lung disease and microscopic polyangiitis in chilean patients.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the clinical and serological patients characteristics with Microscopic Polyangiitis (MPA) and Interstitial lung disease (ILD). METHODS: Of all the patients with AAV diagnosed between 2007-2017 at the Hospital Clinico Universidad de Chile, those with MPA and ILD were selected and studied retrospectively. RESULTS: All patients were Hispanic; median age at diagnosis 65 years (32-84). 59% were female. All were positive for p-ANCA, 16 patients for MPO. Most common manifestations were constitutional symptoms, weight loss and fever. CT-Scans patterns were Usual Interstitial Pneumonia (UIP) in 10 patients, Nonspecific Interstitial Pneumonia (NSIP) in 6 and fibrosis not UIP or NSIP pattern in 1. In 6 cases, ILD was diagnosed 0.5-14 years before MPA and concomitantly in 11. CONCLUSIONS: Although infrequent, Microscopic Polyangiitis should be suspected in patients with ILD particularly if extra-pulmonary manifestations that rise the possibility of a systemic illness are present, regardless of the time elapsed between the latter and the diagnosis of this type of lung involvement. (Sarcoidosis Vasc Diffuse Lung Dis 2020; 37 (1): 37-42).

Severe infections in patients with anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis: a retrospective cohort study with a clinical phenotype approach.

Severe infections are common in anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis (AAV). We aimed to describe the characteristics of patients with AAV and severe infections according to clinical phenotype. Retrospective cohort study including patients with granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) and microscopic polyangiitis (MPA). Baseline characteristics were compared between patients with and without at least one severe infection. Demographics, comorbidities, clinical characteristics, laboratory and treatment were retrieved at diagnosis and at every infectious event. One hundred and eight patients were included (57 with and 51 without infections). Patients with an infection had received more frequently methylprednisolone boluses at AAV diagnosis than patients without infections (OR 2.6, 95% CI 1.1-5.9, p = 0.01). There were a total of 108 severe infections in 57 patients (median follow-up 18 months). Thirty-two patients (56%) had an infectious complication within the first year of AAV diagnosis, 43 (75%) had pulmonary involvement during the first infection. The most frequent type of infection was pneumonia. Phenotypes were: Non-severe AAV (n = 11), severe PR3-AAV (n = 30), severe MPO-AAV (n = 9); the number of infectious events in each group was 11, 69, 18, respectively. Patients with severe MPO phenotype were older and required more frequently ICU stay compared to other phenotypes. Positive correlation was found between total of infections and pulmonary infiltrates due to vasculitis (ρ = 0.40, p = 0.003), endobronchial involvement (ρ = 0.40, p = 0.003), and alveolar hemorrhage (ρ = 0.34, p = 0.015). Severe infections, most commonly pneumonia, were frequent in this cohort, especially during the first year after diagnosis, in patients with pulmonary involvement and severe PR3 phenotype who received methylprednisolone boluses.

Psicosis y alteraciones en la sensopercepción como manifestaciones atípicas de la poliangitis microscópica / Psychosis and alterations in sensory perception as atypical manifestations of microscopic polyangiitis

RESUMEN La poliangitis microscópica es una vasculitis sistémica, asociada a la positividad de anticuerpos anticitoplasma de neutrófilos, caracterizada por el compromiso necrosante de los vasos de pequeño calibre. Las manifestaciones clínicas de la poliangitis microscópica son variadas y las formas más severas se manifiestan con glomerulonefritis rápidamente progresiva y capilaritis pulmonar. El compromiso nervioso afecta principalmente el sistema periférico. La afectación a nivel central no es común, y hallazgos clínicos de psicosis y alteración del comportamiento son bastante infrecuentes en el contexto de estas enfermedades autoinmunes.

A B S T R A C T Microscopic polyangiitis is a systemic anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis, and is associated with the necrotising small calibre vessels. Its clinical manifestations are varied, and the most severe forms manifest with rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis and pulmonary capillaritis. In the nervous system, it mainly involves the peripheral system. Involvement of the central nervous system is not common, and clinical findings of psychosis and behaviour alterations are infrequent.

Neuropatía periférica como manifestación unica de poliangeítis microscópica en la altura. Reporte de caso / Peripheral neuropathy as a unique manifestation of microscopic polyangetis in high altitude. Case report

Resumen La poliangeítis microscópica, es una vasculitis de vasos pequeños cuya incidencia es de 4 por 1 000 000 de habitantes y que frecuentemente se presenta asociada a manifestaciones de glomerulonefrítis rápidamente progresiva y capilaritis pulmonar. Las manifestaciones neurológicas son menos frecuentes. El diagnostico se confirma con serología positiva para Anticuerpos Anticitoplasma de neutrófilos (ANCA) y especificidad para patrón de fluorescencia perinuclear (P-ANCA) y Mieloperoxidasa (MPO). El tratamiento idóneo son los glucocorticoides e inmunosupresores. Se presenta el caso de un paciente de 69 años con poliangeitis microscópica que debuta con neuropatía periférica como única manifestación clínica, presentación que se considera atípica. Se plantea que ante la presencia de una neuropatía periférica aislada, deben efectuarse estudios para confirmar o descartar la presencia de Poliangeitis Microscópica en base a la gran variabilidad de su sintomatología clínica y potenciales formas de tratamiento.

Summary Microscopic polyangiitis is a small vessel vasculitis whose incidence is 4 per 1 000 000 inhabitants, frequently associated with manifestations of rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis and pulmonary capilaritis, and a less frequent neurological involvement. The diagnosis is confirmed with a positive serology for antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA) and specificity for fluorescence pattern perinuclear (P-ANCA) and myeloperoxidase (MPO). The ideal treatment is a combination of glucocorticoids and immunosuppressants. The case is presented of a 69-year-old patient with microscopic polyangiitis who debuts with peripheral neuropathy as the only manifestation, an atypical feature. The suggestion is made that in the presence of an isolated peripheral neuropathy, studies should be done to rule out the presence of Microscopic Polyangiitis, given its great variability in clinical presentation and potential treatments.

Vasculitis asociada a anticuerpos anticitoplasma de neutrófilos: poliangeítis microscópica / Antineutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibody Associated Vasculitis: Microscopic Polyangiitis

La poliangeítis microscópica se define como una enfermedad autoinmune, multisistémica, de rara incidencia, asociada a anticuerpos anticitoplasma de neutrófilos. Se caracteriza por presentar vasculitis necrotizante de pequeños vasos, no granulomatosa y ausencia de depósito de inmunocomplejos, que afecta predominantemente el tejido renal, pulmonar y cutáneo. Se presenta un paciente masculino, 49 años, sin antecedentes patológicos. Presenta cuadro clínico de 30 días de evolución con tos seca de tipo irritativa, que evoluciona a tos productiva, hemoptisis, disnea de moderado esfuerzo, astenia y edema con fóvea en zonas en declive. Tenía anemia grave y los estudios imagenológicos de tórax evidenciaron infiltrados difusos con aspecto de vidrio deslustrado. Se inició terapia inmunosupresora con metilprednisolona y ciclofosfamida y profilaxis antibiótica. Se obtuvo una disminución en el puntaje de la escala de actividad vasculítica y la posterior remisión; sin embargo, debido al daño tisular renal, no hubo mejoría en la tasa de filtrado glomerular, por lo que el paciente se mantiene en terapia de sustitución renal permanente. Es trascendental el conocimiento de las manifestaciones clínicas, procedimiento diagnóstico y tratamiento de esta enfermedad, ya que, a pesar de su rara incidencia, posee una llamativa morbimortalidad que puede modificarse significativamente con un diagnóstico y tratamiento oportunos(AU)

Microscopic Polyangiitis is defined as an autoimmune, multisystemic, low prevalence disease, associated to antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody. Characterized by necrotizing vasculitis of small vessels, with no granulomatous inflammation and absence of immune complex deposits, predominantly affecting renal, pulmonary and cutaneous tissue. 49-year old male patient with no past medical history. Refers symptomatology that started thirty days ago, characterized by dry cough, that evolves to productive cough, hemoptysis, exertional dyspnea, asthenia and pitting edema. Laboratory tests show severe anemia, glomerular filtration rate of 6.9 ml/min/1.73m2, hematuria, proteinuria, positive presence of antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies and anti-myeloperoxidase antibodies, additional thoracic imaging shows ground glass opacities consolidations. Immunosuppressive therapy is started with Methylprednisolone and Cyclophosphamide along with antibiotic prophylaxis, resulting in a decrease in the vasculitis activity score with subsequent remission; however due to renal tissue damage, there is no improvement in the glomerular filtration rate and the patient continues receiving renal replacement therapy. Due to its striking morbidity and mortality, we consider of great importance the knowledge of its clinical presentation, diagnostic procedures and treatment, in order to obtain a positive impact on the patient's quality of life and survival rate(AU)

Paquimeningitis hipertrófica en vasculitis anca positivo: reporte de caso y revisión de la literatura / Hypertrophic pachymeningitis in positive ANCA vasculitis: case report and literature review

La paquimeningitis hipertrófica (PH), es una manifestación poco frecuente de la vasculitis asociada a anticuerpos anti-citoplasma de neutrófilo (ANCA). La literatura describe compromiso de sistema nervioso central (SNC) en 2-8% de los casos en pacientes con vasculitis pauciinmune. Se presenta el caso de un paciente con antecedente de vasculitis anti-mieloperoxidasa (MPO) con un mes de evolución de cefalea hemicraneana izquierda. La resonancia magnética cerebral contrastada evidencia marcado engrosamiento y realce meníngeo dural en el hemicráneo izquierdo, predominante en el tentorio y la fosa posterior. Se descartaron causas infecciosas por lo que se llegó a la conclusión de compromiso meníngeo asociado a vasculitis. Se inició manejo inmunosupresor con mejoría del cuadro clínico. La rápida identificación y manejo de esta entidad puede cambiar su pronóstico sombrío. Se realizó una revisión de la literatura para brindar una herramienta para la toma de decisiones para los médicos que se enfrentan a esta entidad.

Hypertrophic pachymeningitis (PH) is a rare manifestation of vasculitis associated with anti-neutrophil cytoplasm antibodies (ANCA). The literature describes central nervous system (CNS) involvement in 2-8% of cases in patients with pauciimmune vasculitis. We present the case of a patient with a history of anti-Myeloperoxidase (MPO) vasculitis with a 1-month history of left-sided headache. Contrast brain magnetic resonance was performed with evidence of marked thickening and dural meningeal enhancement in the left hemicranium, predominantly in the region of the tentorium and posterior fossa. Infectious causes were ruled out and the meningeal compromise associated with vasculitis was concluded. Immunosuppressive management was started with improvement of the clinical picture. Rapid identification and management of this entity can change its bleak outlook. A systematic review of the literature was carried out in order to provide a decision-making tool for physicians facing this entity.

Microscopic polyangiitis and antiphospholipid syndrome. An uncommon association / Poliangitis microscópica y síndrome antifosfolípido. Una asociación infrecuente

ABSTRACT Antiphospholipid syndrome is frequently associated with systemic lupus erythematosus and other autoimmune diseases. However, coexistence with primary vasculitis has been poorly reported. The case is presented of a 67-year-old patient with a history of recurrent abortion and chronic pulmonary thromboembolism who was admitted due to haemopty sis. At the initial evaluation, a massive alveolar haemorrhage and glomerulonephritis were diagnosed. The results of the antibodies were positive for ANCA with P-type pattern, anti-myeloperoxidase antibodies, and antiphospholipid antibodies (anti-β2 IgG glycoprotein 1 and lupus anticoagulant). Diagnosis of ANCA positive vasculitis-type microscopic polyangiitis was made in association with antiphospholipid syndrome. Given the clinical context, it was decided to initiate intravenous methylprednisolone in pulses for 3 consecutive days, fol lowed by oral prednisone, and as maintenance therapy, rituximab and anticoagulation with warfarin were instituted. The clinical evolution of the patient was satisfactory, with symp tom control being achieved, as well as a significant improvement of renal and pulmonary function, with a decrease in the Birmingham vasculitis activity score (BVAS).

RESUMEN El síndrome antifosfolípido se asocia frecuentemente con lupus eritematoso sistémico y otras enfermedades autoinmunes. Sin embargo, la coexistencia con vasculitis primaria ha sido poco reportada. Se presenta el caso de una paciente de 67 arios de edad con historia de aborto recurrente y tromboembolismo pulmonar crónico, quien es admitida para estudio de hemoptisis. A la evaluación inicial se diagnosticó una hemorragia alveolar masiva y glomerulonefritis. El resultado de los anticuerpos fue positivo para anticuerpos anticitoplasma de neutrófilos (ANCA) con patrón tipo perinuclear, anticuerpos anti-mieloperoxidasa y anticuerpos antifosfolípidos (anti (32 glicoproteína 1 IgG y anticoagulante lúpico), configurándose el diagnóstico de vasculitis asociada a ANCA de tipo poliangitis microscópica en asociación con síndrome antifosfolípido. Dado el contexto clínico, se decidió iniciar metilprednisolona intravenosa en pulsos por 3 días consecutivos, seguida de prednisona oral, y como terapia de mantenimiento se instauró rituximab y anticoagulación con warfarina. La evolución clínica de la paciente fue satisfactoria, alcanzando control de síntomas e importante mejoría de la función renal y pulmonar, con disminución del score BVAS.

Vasculitis en adultos mayores. A propósito de dos casos y revisión de la literatura / Vasculitis in elderly. About two clinical cases and literature review

Resumen Actualmente vivimos un proceso de transición en la pirámide poblacional. Por lo tanto, se hacen más frecuentes las enfermedades renales en los ancianos. Así, las vasculitis primarias en adultos mayores son enfermedades raras, causadas por la inflamación de los vasos sanguíneos y muy poco diagnosticadas. La literatura se limita a escasos casos clínicos. La vasculitis por anticuerpo citoplasmático anti neutrófilo (ANCA) positivo (VAA) es más frecuente en personas mayores de 50 años. La detección de ANCA es de peor pronóstico en esta población. También, es importante la alta sospecha y diagnóstico oportuno, ya que así se puede brindar un tratamiento óptimo y disminuir las complicaciones propias de la enfermedad y aquellas asociadas a la inmunosupresión. Los adultos mayores con VAA tienen mayor compromiso renal, hipertensión, dislipidemia y mortalidad incrementada. Por lo que a continuación se detallan dos casos clínicos desde la fecha del diagnóstico, edad, valores de laboratorio de la presentación inicial y la escala de actividad de vasculitis de Birmingham confirmados con biopsia renal (ANCA positivo) identificados en un hospital de especialidades de Ecuador.

Abstract Currently we live a process of transition in the population pyramid. Therefore, kidney diseases become more frequent in the elderly. Thus, primary vasculitis in older adults are rare diseases, caused by the inflammation of blood vessels and poorly diagnosed. The literature is limited to few clinical cases. Cytoplasmic anti-neutrophil antibody (ANCA) positive vasculitis (AAV) is more common in people older than 50 years. The detection of ANCA gives a very poor prognosis in this population. Also, high suspicion and timely diagnosis is important, as this can provide optimal treatment and reduce the complications of the disease and those associated with immunosuppression. Older adults with AAV have greater renal involvement, hypertension, dyslipidemia and increased mortality. Therefore, two clinical cases from the date of diagnosis, age, laboratory values of the initial presentation and the scale of activity of Birmingham vasculitis confirmed with renal biopsy (ANCA positive) identified in a specialty hospital of Ecuador are detailed below.

Poliangiite microscópica com síndrome pulmão-rim: relato de caso e revisão de literatura / Microscopic polyangiitis with lung-kidney syndrome: case report and literature review

A poliangiite microscópica (PAM) é uma vasculite necrosante sistêmica pauci-imune associada ao anticorpo anticitoplasma de neutrófilos (ANCA) com preferência de pequenos vasos. Relato do caso: Relatamos o caso de uma paciente do sexo feminino, 54 anos, que apresentou quadro de poliartrite migratória em punhos, joelhos e tornozelos associada à rigidez matinal progressiva, com histórico de "rash" malar, fotossensibilidade e alopecia. Progrediu ao longo do ano de 2017 com deterioração da função renal e hemorragia pulmonar, necessitando de cuidados intensivos. A biópsia renal sugeriu padrão compatível com glomerulonefrite pauci-imune e o diagnóstico de poliangiite microscópica foi aventado. Realizou pulsoterapia com metilprednisolona e ciclofosfamida, além de plasmaférese, recebendo alta após estabilização do quadro clínico. Importância do problema: O presente caso ilustra uma complicação incomum e de elevada morbimortalidade da PAM. A negatividade do ANCA dificultou o diagnóstico, sendo necessária a realização de biópsia renal com confirmação diagnóstica. A síndrome pulmão-rim apresenta evolução potencialmente fatal se não instituído precocemente o tratamento. (AU)

Microscopic polyangiitis (MPA) is a pauci-immune systemic necrotizing vasculitis associated with neutrophil anti-cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA) with a preference for small vessels. Case report: We report the case of a 54-year-old woman, who presented migratory polyarthritis in wrists, knees and ankles associated with progressive morning stiffness, with history of malar "rash", photosensitivity and alopecia. It progressed throughout the year of 2017 with deterioration of renal function and pulmonary hemorrhage, requiring intensive care. Renal biopsy suggested a pattern compatible with pauci-immune glomerulonephritis and the diagnosis of microscopic polyangiitis was suggested. She underwent pulse therapy with methylprednisolone and cyclophosphamide, in addition to plasmapheresis, being discharged from hospital after stabilization of the clinical condition. Importance of the issue: The present case reveals an uncommon and high morbimortality complication of MPA. The negativity of the ANCA made diagnosis difficult, and a renal biopsy was necessary to confirm diagnosis. Lung-kidney syndrome is potentially fatal if the treatment is not instituted early. (AU)

Tratamiento exitoso de poliangeítis microscópica con compromiso grave del sistema nervioso central y renal en una paciente anciana / Successful treatment of microscopic polyangiitis with severe compromise of central nervous system and renal in a very elderly patient

RESUMEN El compromiso neurológico del sistema nervioso central (SNC) en las vasculitis asociadas a anticuerpos anticitoplasma de neutrófilos (ANCAS, del inglés anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic autoantibodies) es raro y potencialmente catastrófico. El estándar de tratamiento ha sido la ciclofosfamida con pulsos de esteroides, sin embargo, este esquema no tiene evidencia fuerte para el compromiso del sistema nervioso central y no está exento de efectos adversos graves sobre todo en la población anciana. En los últimos años, ha aparecido el rituximab como terapia alternativa a la ciclofosfamida para inducir la remisión en este tipo de vasculitis, no obstante, su uso con compromiso neurológico grave también ha sido anecdótico. Se presenta el caso de una paciente de 84 años de edad con poliangeítis microscópica y compromiso neurológico y renal grave, tratada con rituximab evolucionando favorablemente alcanzando la remisión de la enfermedad.

SUMMARY The neurological involvement of the central nervous system (CNS) in vasculitis associated with ANCAS is rare and potentially catastrophic. The standard treatment is cyclophosphamide with pulses of steroids; however, this scheme has no strong evidence for central nervous system involvement and is not free of serious adverse effects especially in the elderly population. In recent year's rituximab has appeared as an alternative therapy to cyclophosphamide to induce remission in this type of vasculitis, however its use with severe neurological involvement has also been anecdotal. We present the case of 84-year-old patient who presented a microscopic polyangiitis with severe neurological and renal involvement, treated with rituximab with a favorable evolution in reaching remission of the disease.

Pulmonary Involvement in Systemic Vasculitis.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The purpose of this study is to describe the most relevant advances concerning lung involvement in the ANCA-associated vasculitides (excluding eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis which may have different disease mechanisms). Focus is on pathophysiology, recent important imagenological procedures, treatment, and outcome. RECENT FINDINGS: Emerging information exists on potential newly investigated diagnostic procedures (v.g. transbronchial cryobiopsies), detailed tomographic abnormalities, the potential favorable role of rituximab and the still uncertain one of plasma exchange in the treatment, and the increasing description of interstitial lung disease. Survival is reduced in case of both, diffuse alveolar hemorrhage and diffuse parenchymal disease. There is the need to expand the knowledge concerning better long-term treatment options with specific regimes, and to incorporate other measures regarding integral treatment in patients afflicted with lung involvement these maladies, as the outcome seems adverse in this scenario.