Article
Immunology
Azam Safary, Kamal Esalatmanesh, Amir Taher Eftekharsadat, Mohammad -Reza Jafari Nakjavani, Alireza Khabbazi
Summary: Vaccination against COVID-19 is important for achieving herd immunity and controlling the pandemic. However, a small number of people may develop autoimmune rheumatic diseases (ARDs) as a rare adverse reaction to the vaccines. This study identifies individuals who developed de-novo ARDs after COVID-19 vaccination, with a higher prevalence among those who received the AstraZeneca vaccine. Prompt diagnosis and treatment can prevent irreversible organ damage.
INTERNATIONAL IMMUNOPHARMACOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Rheumatology
Teresa Carbone, Valentina Picerno, Vito Pafundi, Ernesto Esposito, Pietro Leccese, Angela Anna Padula, Salvatore D'Angelo
Summary: The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted rheumatological clinical practice and autoimmunity testing demands, resulting in a decrease in laboratory test volumes and first rheumatological visits and diagnoses in 2020. However, an equivalent or higher percentage of positive autoimmunity results were recorded in outpatient services during 2020 compared to the prepandemic state, with new diagnoses mainly affected by less severe diseases.
JOURNAL OF RHEUMATOLOGY
(2022)
Review
Biology
Aditi Mohan, Venkatesh Anand Iyer, Dharmender Kumar, Lalit Batra, Praveen Dahiya
Summary: The COVID-19 pandemic has had significant effects on the immune system, leading to dysregulated immune responses and diverse persistent symptoms in long COVID-19. Understanding the complex interplay between the immune system and long COVID-19 is crucial for developing treatment strategies and providing optimal care.
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Zoltan Szekanecz, Attila Balog, Tamas Constantin, Laszlo Czirjak, Pal Geher, Laszlo Kovacs, Gabor Kumanovics, Gyorgy Nagy, Eva Rakoczi, Szilvia Szamosi, Gabriella Szucs, Istvan Valyi-Nagy
Summary: This review examines the relationships between COVID-19, autoimmunity, and patients with autoimmune RMDs, as well as the basics of a multisystemic inflammatory syndrome associated with COVID-19. The repurposing of pharmaceuticals used to treat RMDs, principles for treating patients with autoimmune RMDs during the pandemic, and key aspects of vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 in autoimmune RMD patients are discussed.
EXPERT REVIEWS IN MOLECULAR MEDICINE
(2022)
Article
Immunology
Sinem Nihal Esatoglu, Koray Tascilar, Hakan Babaoglu, Cemal Bes, Berna Yurttas, Servet Akar, Ozlem Pehlivan, Cansu Akleylek, Duygu Tecer, Emire Seyahi, Tuba Yuce-Inel, Nilufer Alpay-Kanitez, Erdal Bodakci, Emre Tekgoz, Seda Colak, Ertugrul Cagri Bolek, Suleyman Serdar Koca, Umut Kalyoncu, Ozan Cemal Icacan, Serdal Ugurlu, Hande Ece Oz, Vedat Hamuryudan, Gulen Hatemi
Summary: This study found that among patients with inflammatory rheumatic diseases (IRDs) and COVID-19, factors such as glucocorticoid use, chronic kidney disease, pulmonary disease, and obesity were associated with worse outcomes, while biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs did not seem to be associated with worse outcomes.
FRONTIERS IN IMMUNOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Rheumatology
Kshitij Jagtap, R. Naveen, Jessica Day, Parikshit Sen, Binit Vaidya, Arvind Nune, Elena Nikiphorou, Ai Lyn Tan, Vishwesh Agarwal, Sreoshy Saha, Samuel Katsuyuki Shinjo, Nelly Ziade, Mrudula Joshi, Tsvetelina Velikova, Marcin Milchert, Ioannis Parodis, Abraham Edgar Gracia-Ramos, Lorenzo Cavagna, Masataka Kuwana, Johannes Knitza, Ashima Makol, Aarat Patel, John D. Pauling, Chris Wincup, Bhupen Barman, Erick Adrian Zamora Tehozol, Jorge Rojas Serrano, Ignacio Garcia-De La Torre, Iris J. Colunga-Pedraza, Javier Merayo-Chalico, Okwara Celestine Chibuzo, Wanruchada Katchamart, Phonpen Akawatcharangura Goo, Russka Shumnalieva, Yi-Ming Chen, Leonardo Santos Hoff, Lina El Kibbi, Hussein Halabi, Syahrul Sazliyana Shaharir, A. T. M. Tanveer Hasan, Dzifa Dey, Carlos Enrique Toro Gutierrez, Carlo Vinicio Caballero-Uribe, James B. Lilleker, Babur Salim, Tamer Gheita, Tulika Chatterjee, Miguel A. Saavedra, Oliver Distler, Hector Chinoy, Vikas Agarwal, Rohit Aggarwal, Latika Gupta
Summary: Using global surveys, this study investigated the incidence, predictors, and patterns of flares following COVID-19 vaccination in individuals with autoimmune rheumatic diseases (AIRDs). The results showed that flares occurred in nearly 1 in 10 AIRDs patients after vaccination, with higher vulnerability in patients with comorbidities, mental health disorders, and those receiving the Moderna vaccine. The presence of multiple autoimmune diseases and mental health disorders, as well as receiving the Moderna vaccine, were predictive of flares, while the use of MMF and glucocorticoids were protective. Further research and optimization of vaccine strategies are needed.
Article
Immunology
Athanasios-Dimitrios Bakasis, Clio P. Mavragani, Paraskevi V. Voulgari, Nafsika Gerolymatou, Ourania D. Argyropoulou, Panayiotis G. Vlachoyiannopoulos, Fotini N. Skopouli, Athanasios G. Tzioufas, Haralampos M. Moutsopoulos
Summary: This observational study reports the clinical features and outcomes of COVID-19 in patients with systemic autoimmune and autoinflammatory rheumatic diseases (SAARD) who were unvaccinated or received 2 or 3 doses of the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine. The study found that vaccination with 2 or 3 doses significantly reduced hospitalizations and the need for oxygen supplementation in COVID-19 patients with SAARD. Furthermore, the study showed that receiving 3 doses of the vaccine was associated with a significantly lower risk of severe/critical COVID-19.
JOURNAL OF AUTOIMMUNITY
(2022)
Review
Medicine, General & Internal
Livia Roseti, Brunella Grigolo
Summary: Joint pain and arthralgia can be symptoms of COVID-19, and there is evidence suggesting a possible relationship between the virus and the development of inflammatory arthritis. Viral infections and rheumatic diseases have documented associations, and they share genetic and environmental risk factors. The interaction between viruses and the immune system plays a role in the development of rheumatic diseases, and infections may contribute to autoimmune rheumatic diseases and patient mortality. Therefore, understanding the interaction between viral infections and rheumatic diseases is crucial.
FRONTIERS IN MEDICINE
(2022)
Article
Rheumatology
Chen Shen, Malcolm Risk, Elena Schiopu, Salim S. Hayek, Tiankai Xie, Lynn Holevinski, Cem Akin, Gary Freed, Lili Zhao
Summary: The study found that the mRNA-1273 and BNT162b2 vaccines are effective in individuals taking immunosuppressants. However, these individuals are still at higher risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19 hospitalization compared to the general vaccinated population. Booster doses are effective and crucial for individuals on immunosuppressants.
ANNALS OF THE RHEUMATIC DISEASES
(2022)
Article
Rheumatology
Cristiana Sieiro Santos, Xenia Casas Fernandez, Clara Moriano Morales, Elvira Diez Alvarez, Carolina Alvarez Castro, Alejandra Lopez Robles, Trinidad Perez Sandoval
Summary: The study found that patients treated with biological agents have a lower risk of contracting COVID-19 and can still be managed at home during the outbreak, while IL-6 inhibitors may have a protective effect.
Review
Rheumatology
Yuliya Fedorchenko, Olena Zimba
Summary: The consequences of COVID-19 in patients with rheumatic diseases are diverse, with evidence suggesting a higher risk for Long COVID in these patients due to immune dysregulation. This article provides an overview of the pathobiology of Long COVID in rheumatic patients, including viral persistence, chronic inflammation, autoantibody production, endotheliopathy, vascular complications, and tissue damage. Surviving COVID-19 can lead to severe complications in patients with rheumatic diseases, highlighting the need for regular monitoring and treatment.
RHEUMATOLOGY INTERNATIONAL
(2023)
Article
Rheumatology
Alla Skapenko, Hendrik Schulze-Koops
Summary: Since the start of the SARS-CoV-2 vaccination campaign, our understanding of the effects of vaccines on people with inflammatory rheumatic diseases has been limited. However, three notable papers from the past year have provided key insights and filled these knowledge gaps.
NATURE REVIEWS RHEUMATOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Immunology
Zixi Yi, Zhongqiang Yao, Dan Xu, Chuanhui Xu, Wenqiang Fang, Zhanfei Guo, Yong Wang, Jianlin Huang, Qin Li, Hong Zhang, Anbin Huang, Lijun Wu, Zhenbiao Wu, Huifang Guo, Fengxiao Zhang, Jing Lu, Zhenchun Zhang, Zhongming Yu, Zhanyun Da, Li Luo, Bin Wu, Henglian Wu, Lin Zeng, Rong Mu
Summary: The study highlights the intentions and actual vaccination rates among patients with rheumatic diseases in China. The majority of patients intended to get vaccinated, but the actual vaccination rate was low. Male, employed, high-income patients and those with inactive disease showed a more positive attitude towards vaccination. Concerns about adverse events and disease flare were the main factors affecting vaccination willingness. Furthermore, a significant portion of patients felt that they did not receive enough information about the COVID-19 vaccine from their doctors.
Review
Cell Biology
Abraham Edgar Gracia-Ramos, Eduardo Martin-Nares, Gabriela Hernandez-Molina
Summary: There is mounting evidence that COVID-19 can trigger the development of new-onset systemic and rheumatic autoimmune diseases, mainly involving vasculitis and arthritis. Further research is needed to understand the link between SARS-CoV-2 and these autoimmune diseases for early diagnosis and appropriate management.
Article
Medicine, General & Internal
Marta Rorat, Dorota Zarebska-Michaluk, Justyna Kowalska, Krzysztof Kujawa, Magdalena Rogalska, Dorota Kozielewicz, Beata Lorenc, Katarzyna Sikorska, Piotr Czupryna, Beata Bolewska, Jadwiga Maciukajc, Tomasz Piekos, Regina Podlasin, Anna Dworzanska, Wlodzimierz Mazur, Michal Brzdek, Anna Szymanek-Pasternak, Robert Flisiak
Summary: Patients with systemic autoimmune rheumatic disease (SARD) are more susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 infection. This study compared the characteristics, severity, course, and outcomes of COVID-19 in SARD patients with the non-SARD group. Factors associated with prognosis, including remdesivir therapy efficacy, were also examined. The study found that SARD patients had longer hospital stays, higher mortality rates, and a greater need for oxygen therapy compared to the non-SARD group. Age, the presence of cardiovascular disease, severity of condition on admission, and higher inflammatory marker values were identified as risk factors for death in the SARD group. Remdesivir treatment showed a trend towards improved mortality in SARD patients but was not statistically significant. Overall, SARD patients had worse outcomes and were more likely to have other chronic diseases.
JOURNAL OF CLINICAL MEDICINE
(2022)
Letter
Rheumatology
K. C. Shanoj, Sakir Ahmed, Veena Shenoy, Aparna R. Menon, Sanjo Saijan, Sageer A. S. Babu, Padmanabha Shenoy
ANNALS OF THE RHEUMATIC DISEASES
(2023)
Article
Rheumatology
Akerke Auanassova, Marlen Yessirkepov, Olena Zimba, Armen Yuri Gasparyan, Mrudula Joshi, Vikas Agarwal, George D. Kitas, Sakir Ahmed
Summary: This study surveyed physicians' knowledge and perceptions of antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitides (AAV) through an online questionnaire. The results showed variations in understanding and practices of AAV across different countries, as well as insights into the management of AAV patients with COVID-19. The survey also revealed a lack of consensus on the definitions of AAV and a gap between guidelines and current practice.
CLINICAL RHEUMATOLOGY
(2023)
Editorial Material
Rheumatology
Sakir Ahmed, Ramnath Misra
JOURNAL OF RHEUMATOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Rheumatology
Durga Prasanna Misra, Sakir Ahmed, Mohit Goyal, Aman Sharma, Vikas Agarwal
Summary: Most IRDs have an increased risk of VTE, particularly those with a high-risk triple positive APL profile. The duration of anticoagulation after a VTE event is determined by the nature of the event and the presence of underlying thrombophilic states such as APLs. VTE associated with BD necessitates immunosuppression instead of anticoagulation. Caution should be exercised when using JAKinibs in individuals with a history of VTE events. Ongoing post-marketing surveillance studies of various JAKinibs will provide further clarification on the VTE risk associated with these medications.
RHEUMATIC DISEASE CLINICS OF NORTH AMERICA
(2023)
Article
Rheumatology
Olena Zimba, Armen Yuri Gasparyan
Summary: Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of illness and death in rheumatic diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus. Advanced visualization techniques for timely detection and monitoring of cardiovascular issues may improve outcomes in these diseases.
CLINICAL RHEUMATOLOGY
(2023)
Review
Rheumatology
Rajdeep Sarkar, M. Prakashini, Naga Hinduja, Mitanjali Sethy, Hemanta Kar, Sakir Ahmed
Summary: This study reports a case of a 33-year-old female with refractory alopecia caused by systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The patient had significant hair growth after treatment with tofacitinib and maintained it for 2 years even after tapering off glucocorticoids completely. Furthermore, the literature was reviewed to provide further evidence supporting the use of JAK inhibitors for alopecia in SLE.
CLINICAL RHEUMATOLOGY
(2023)
Review
Rheumatology
M. Prakashini, Akerke Auanassova, Marlen Yessirkepov, Olena Zimba, Armen Yuri Gasparyan, George D. Kitas, Sakir Ahmed
Summary: The COVID-19 pandemic has overwhelmed healthcare systems and led to the emergence of autoimmune phenomena like systemic vasculitis. The SARS-CoV-2 virus and vaccines have been associated with clinical manifestations resembling various types of vasculitis, affecting different vessels. These virus- or vaccine-induced vasculitides have distinct characteristics from de novo vasculitis, as they respond better to steroid therapy and can even resolve spontaneously. However, there have been no confirmed cases of SARS-CoV-2 infection or vaccination triggering certain types of vasculitis. The impact of immunosuppression and steroid therapy duration should be determined individually.
CLINICAL RHEUMATOLOGY
(2023)
Review
Medicine, General & Internal
Pankti Mehta, Olena Zimba, Armen Yuri Gasparyan, Birzhan Seiil, Marlen Yessirkepov
Summary: An Ethics Committee (EC) is an independent body that ensures the protection of human rights and research subjects' well-being. This review examines the types of research requiring EC approval, the submission process, and exemptions. It also discusses the constitution, duties, review process, and risk-benefit assessment by ECs, highlighting the importance of adherence to EC regulations for researchers.
JOURNAL OF KOREAN MEDICAL SCIENCE
(2023)
Article
Rheumatology
Libin Benny, Pankti Mehta, Sakir Ahmed, Aby Paul, Aswathy Sukumaran, Manju Mohanan, Anuroopa Vijayan, K. Kaveri, R. Padmaja, Padmanabha Shenoy
Summary: This prospective study found that the risk of breakthrough Omicron infections in fully vaccinated patients with autoimmune rheumatic diseases (AIRDs) was 17.4%, with a significantly lower risk in patients with hybrid immunity. The results suggest that vaccination and prior COVID-19 infection provide increased protection against the Omicron variant in patients with AIRDs.
RHEUMATOLOGY INTERNATIONAL
(2023)
Review
Medicine, General & Internal
Olena Zimba, Armen Yuri Gasparyan
Summary: The ongoing war and humanitarian crisis in Ukraine have resulted in millions of women, children, and elderly individuals being displaced to Poland, other European countries, and elsewhere. This has led to various health issues in the host countries, including low immunization coverage, psychological distress, and multiple health conditions. Providing humanitarian support and adopting a multidisciplinary approach can help improve the health and well-being of the refugees. Involving relocated healthcare professionals in the rehabilitation and medical care of their fellow nationals may offer psychosocial and health benefits.
JOURNAL OF KOREAN MEDICAL SCIENCE
(2023)
Review
Medicine, General & Internal
Olena Zimba, Armen Yuri Gasparyan
Summary: Survey studies play an important role in rapidly developing medical disciplines like medical education, public health, and nursing. They can help increase research activities in non-mainstream science countries. Designing and conducting surveys require considering various factors such as relevant reviews, expert input, and feedback from potential responders. Online surveys are beneficial in reaching a wider range of participants through social media and other online platforms.
JOURNAL OF KOREAN MEDICAL SCIENCE
(2023)
Review
Rheumatology
Dana Bekaryssova, Prakashini Mruthyunjaya Vijaya, Sakir Ahmed, Suhas Sondur, Olena Zimba
Summary: This article explores common rheumatic conditions associated with articular syndrome and supports early differentiation of uncommon but emerging entities. It provides a comprehensive overview of various forms of articular syndrome to update knowledge for experts and allied health specialists. Furthermore, it discusses challenges emerging in the peri-pandemic COVID-19 era.
RHEUMATOLOGY INTERNATIONAL
(2023)
