Katarzyna Fischer - Academia.edu (original) (raw)
Papers by Katarzyna Fischer
Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases, 2012
ABSTRACT Background Cytokine-mediated immunity plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of variou... more ABSTRACT Background Cytokine-mediated immunity plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of various autoimmune diseases including systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Interleukin 23 (IL-23) may be involved in pathogenesis of SLE. Moreover, recent studies showed that targeting of IL-23 or the IL-23 receptor is a potential therapeutic approach for autoimmune diseases including SLE. Objectives To evaluate association between serum levels of IL-23 and selected characteristics of the disease in SLE patients. Methods Study was performed in 94 SLE patients (82 women and 12 men) aged 19-73 years and in 27 age and gender matched controls. Serum IL-23 was measured by ELISA method with R&D Systems tests. The evaluation of atherosclerotic changes was performed on the basis of: intima-media thickness measurement and the presence of atherosclerotic plaques in carotid and lower extremities arteries with B-mode ultrasound and ankle-brachial index measurement with Doppler ultrasonography. Furthermore, we assessed vascular resistance on the basis of high resistance index measurement from Doppler spectrum of popliteal arteries. Those investigations were performed using HDI 3500 (ATL) with 5-12 MHz linear transducer. We also took into account classical cardiovascular risk factors (hypertension, dyslipidemia, hyperglycemia, overweight/obesity, smoking, oral contraceptives, positive family history of cardiovascular disease), selected clinical manifestations (cardiovascular, cerebrovascular, lupus nephritis, Raynaud’s phenomenon, livedo reticularis, vasculitis, other thromboembolic complications), profile of autoantibodies (antinuclear, antiphospholipid, anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic, anti-endothelial cell). Statistical analysis was performed with: chi2Yates, chi2Pearson, rank Spearman correlations tests, logistic regression analysis and multivariate stepwise analysis. Results Concentrations of IL-23 significantly differed between SLE patients and the controls (p=0,0005). Patients with high levels of IL-23 more frequently developed atherosclerosis showed as the presence of plaques in right common femoral artery and lupus nephritis (OR=10,1; 95%CI:1,2-85,1 and OR=3,2; 95%CI:1,1-9,6 respectively). However, from classical atherosclerotic risk factors only obesity was significantly associated with IL-23 (OR=3,8; 95%CI:1,2-12,3). Immunological characteristics significantly related to IL-23 were anti-phosphatidylethanolamine antibodies, especially of IgG class (OR=12,7; 95%CI:1,5-108,1) and anti-SS-B antibodies (OR=11,8; 95%CI:1,5-94,8). Association with anti-cardiolipin and anti-prothrombin antibodies of IgG class was on the border of statistical significance (OR=2,3; 95%CI:0,9-5,7 and OR=8,4; 95%CI:1,0-71,1 respectively). Conclusions 1. IL-23 may be involved in lupus nephritis pathogenesis. 2. IL-23 trough its significant association with obesity and antiphospholipid antibodies may promote hypercoagulable state contributing to atherothrombosis development in SLE patients. Disclosure of Interest None Declared
Polskie Archiwum Medycyny Wewnętrznej, Jan 31, 2015
Polskie Archiwum Medycyny Wewnętrznej, 2014
Antiphosphatidylethanolamine antibodies (aPE) and antiphosphatidylserine antibodies (aPS) belong ... more Antiphosphatidylethanolamine antibodies (aPE) and antiphosphatidylserine antibodies (aPS) belong to a group of antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) that occur in patients with antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The aim of this study was to examine associations between the elevated serum concentration of aPE/aPS, the clinical manifestations of SLE, and the presence of other autoantibodies. The study group included 71 patients with SLE. The control group comprised 36 healthy volunteers. In both groups, serum aPS and aPE concentrations were measured with enzyme‑linked immunosorbent assays. Clinical data, including clinical manifestations and the laboratory markers of SLE, were obtained from medical records. The study revealed a higher prevalence of aPE in patients with SLE than in controls (54.93% vs. 5.56%). aPS were observed in the study group less frequently compared with aPE (12.68% vs. 54.93%) and were absent in controls. Anticardiolipin antibodie...
Annales Academiae Medicae Stetinensis, 2008
The aim of the study was: (1) The evaluation of the frequency of intima-media thickening (IMT) an... more The aim of the study was: (1) The evaluation of the frequency of intima-media thickening (IMT) and the presence of atherosclerotic plaques in carotid arteries in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in comparison with the control group. (2) The evaluation of the correlation between IMT and the presence of atherosclerotic plaques in carotid arteries in patients with SLE and the association of selected immunological and genetic parameters, markers of inflammation, traditional risk factors of atherosclerosis and its treatment. (3) The evaluation of practical usefulness of IMT measurement in diagnostics of early atherosclerosis and the evaluation of risk of its complications in patients with SLE. (4) The evaluation of the correlation between IMT and the presence of atherosclerotic plaques in carotid arteries and selected systemic complications in patients with SLE. In a group of 103 SLE patients and 30 healthy people (control group) was performed B-mode ultrasound examinatio...
Polskie archiwum medycyny wewnȩtrznej
Atherosclerosis is an important clinical problem in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (S... more Atherosclerosis is an important clinical problem in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), because of very severe cardiovascular and central nervous system manifestations. Estimation if antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) and antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) are risk factors for subclinical atherosclerosis in patients with SLE. We examined 103 patients with SLE and 30 healthy volunteers, included as the control group. Coexistence of APS was confirmed in 35 patients. Evaluation of subclinical atherosclerosis was done on the basis of measurement of intima-media thickness (IMT) in B-mode ultrasound examination. We considered classical atherosclerotic risk factors and determined profile of aPL: anti-cardiolipine antibodies (aCL), anti beta2 glycoprotein-I antibodies, antiprothrombin antibodies (aPT), anti-oxidized low-density lipoprotein antibodies and lupus anticoagulant (LA). Statistical analysis was performed with chi2 Yates, chi2 Pearson and R rang Spearman tests. Multivaria...
The Israel Medical Association journal : IMAJ, 2012
Polski merkuriusz lekarski : organ Polskiego Towarzystwa Lekarskiego, 2006
Cardiovascular system involvement is the third most common reason of death in patients with syste... more Cardiovascular system involvement is the third most common reason of death in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The aim of this study was to assess the cardiac involvement in the SLE patients with a regard to clinical, serological and environmental risk factors. 103 patients were included into the study, 91 women and 12 men, aged 16-74 yrs, the control group included 25 subjects. Physical examination, two-dimensional guided M-mode and Doppler echocardiographic recordings were performed. The tests for the presence of ANA, ENA, antiphospholipid antibodies (aCL, LA, anti-beta2GPI and antiprothrombin antibodies), ANCA (anti-neutrophil cytoplasm antibodies), AECA (anti endothelial cell antibodies) were carried out. The following pathologies were significantly more common in the SLE patients: pericardial involvement (58%), organic changes of the mitral valve cusps (54%), organic changes of the aortic valve cusps (36%), widening of the aortal lumen (35%), enlargement of the...
Antiphospholipid Syndrome, 2012
Molecular Biology Reports, 2014
To assess the association between PTPN22 1858C[T gene polymorphism and susceptibility to, and cli... more To assess the association between PTPN22 1858C[T gene polymorphism and susceptibility to, and clinical presentation of, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Our study included 135 SLE patients (120 women and 15 men; mean age 45.1 years; mean course of disease from 0.5 to 31 years) and 201 healthy subjects. The PTPN22 1858C[T gene polymorphism was genotyped by polymerase chain reaction restriction fragment length polymorphism. A significantly higher incidence of genotype CT in patients with SLE (36.3 %) was found, compared with the control group (24.9 %). The frequencies of C1858 and T1858 alleles were 78.1 and 21.9 % in SLE patients and 86.1 and 13.9 % in controls, respectively. Significantly higher SLE susceptibility was observed in patients carrying at least one T allele (p = 0.009; OR 1.86; 95 % CI 0.14-3.05). Significant association of the PTPN22 T1858 allele (CT ? TT vs.CC) and secondary antiphospholipid syndrome was observed (p = 0.049). In SLE patients carrying the T1858 allele, higher levels of antiphospholipid antibodies (anticardiolipin antibodies and/or lupus anticoagulant) were found (p = 0.030; OR 2.17; 95 % CI 1.07-4.44).
Annales Academiae Medicae Stetinensis, 2012
Hemangioma is found in approximately 10% of infants as the most prevalent benign neoplasm. The na... more Hemangioma is found in approximately 10% of infants as the most prevalent benign neoplasm. The natural history of hemangioma is typical for this lesion and includes two phases: fast growth during the first year of life of the child and subsequent slow regression lasting some five years. Even though the etiopathogenesis of hemangioma has not been fully elucidated, the role played in this process by vascular growth factors remains unquestionable. The aim of this work was to assess the value of serum levels of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and placental-derived growth factor (PlGF) for therapy planning in infants with hemangiomas. The study group comprised 43 infants, aged 2 weeks to 6 months, with hemangiomas on the body. 25 girls and 11 boys participated in the second stage of the study done 14 months later. We analyzed correlations between serum levels of vascular growth factors and phase of hemangioma, clinical symptoms, and findings in ultrasonography with Power Do...
Rheumatology International, 2010
Early diagnosis of subclinical atherosclerosis can be established using noninvasive imaging techn... more Early diagnosis of subclinical atherosclerosis can be established using noninvasive imaging techniques, which enable to assess atherosclerotic lesions at different stages of their development, from endothelial dysfunction, through morphological lesions in the arteries, to advanced atherosclerotic plaques. Given high risk of accelerated development of atherosclerotic lesions in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), these techniques should be incorporated in routine diagnostic evaluation in this population. Cardiovascular risk factors in patients with SLE differ significantly from those observed in the general population. Chronic inflammation and the presence of autoantibodies play the key role, while classic risk factors are less important. Subclinical atherosclerotic lesions can be detected in 30% to 40% of the SLE patients. The occurrence of severe symptoms in the cardiovascular and central nervous systems can be caused by such lesions. Recent data indicate that the main causes of death in this patient group represent cardiovascular complications. Early identification of patients in the risk group allows to implement appropriate prophylactic and therapeutic procedures.
Rheumatology, Apr 1, 2014
RR) 7.88, 95% CI 4.10, 15.17, P < 0.0001; late: 8% vs 1% respectively, RR 9.96, 95% CI 1.88, 52.8... more RR) 7.88, 95% CI 4.10, 15.17, P < 0.0001; late: 8% vs 1% respectively, RR 9.96, 95% CI 1.88, 52.87, P ¼ 0.0081). Ab positivity was associated with abnormal NFC (P ¼ 0.025 for any Ab, P ¼ 0.019 for ANA, P < 0.001 for ACA). The RR of detecting a SSc NFC pattern (early/active/late) if ANA or ACA þve was 1.88 (1.16, 3.05, P ¼ 0.0067) and 2.59 (95% CI 1.80, 3.72, P < 0.001) respectively. A history of previous DU in sRP was also associated with abnormal NFC (P ¼ 0.015) and SSc NFC pattern (RR 2.59, 95% CI 1.70, 3.96, P ¼ 0.0037). Abþve with a SSc NFC pattern conferred an OR of SSc-sRP of 11.03 (95% CI 4.81, 25.77, P < 0.0001); early: 3.22 (95% CI 1.24, 8.15, P < 0.0119), active: 7.6 (95% CI 2.87, 20.56, P < 0.0001), late: 7.12 (95% CI 0.97, 80.25, P < 0.0273). Conclusion: NFC abnormalities are commonly seen in RP of any cause, however active and late vasculopathy patterns are rarely visualized in RP not related to SSc. Presence of Ab or previous DU is associated with abnormal NFC. Presence of Ab with SSc NFC pattern greatly increases odds of having SSc-related sRP.
Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases, 2014
ABSTRACT High resistance index (HRI), evaluated on the basis of Doppler spectrum of popliteal art... more ABSTRACT High resistance index (HRI), evaluated on the basis of Doppler spectrum of popliteal arteries, enables detection of subclinical changes in small vessels in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients. To evaluate the association between decreased values of HRI in SLE patients and selected immunological parameters, the presence of markers of inflammation and classical risk factors for atherosclerosis and also selected clinical manifestations. The investigation was performed in 76 patients with SLE (age 20-73 years). The mean course of the disease was 8.7 years. The coexistence of APS was confirmed in 17 patients (22.4%). The control group consisted of 30 healthy people. All the duplex Doppler examinations of popliteal arteries were performed with HDI 3500 (ATL) using 5- 12 MHz linear transducer under standardised conditions. We evaluated the presence of anti-endothelial antibodies (AECA) and profiles of anti-nuclear antibodies, anti-phospholipid antibodies (aPL) and anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies. We also analysed markers of inflammation (C-reactive protein, erythrocyte sedimentation rate and fibrinogen), classical risk factors for atherosclerosis (hypertension, hyperglycaemia, hyperlipidaemia, smoking and positive family history for cardiovascular disease) and clinical complications including cardiovascular and central nervous system manifestations, lupus nephritis, thromboembolic disorders and vasculitis. Statistical analysis was performed with chi(2)Yates, chi(2)Pearson, rank Spearman correlations tests. Logistic regression analysis and multivariate stepwise analysis were also done. All statistical analyses were performed with STATA 11. We found that HRI values in patients with SLE were significantly lower in comparison with the control group (p< 0.0001). We also showed that the coexistence of APS significantly increased risk of lower values of HRI presence (OR = 11.40; 95% CI:1.69-77.03), and from among aPL the most significant were aCL IgG (OR = 7.43; 95% CI:1.82-30.36), aCL IgM (OR = 7.83; 95% CI:1.08-56.53) and anti- β2-GPI antibodies (OR = 5.76; 95% CI:1.17-28.26). Other serological markers, which significantly influenced decreased values of HRI were AECA (OR = 14.84; 95% CI:2.76-79.66). Furthermore, we found significant negative correlation between HRI values and the presence of thromboembolic disorders (R = -0.25; p = 0.0299) and the duration of SLE (R = -0.23; p = 0.0427). We have found no associations between decreased HRI values and the rest of analysed variables. 1. HRI values are significantly decreased in SLE patients. 2. The coexistence of APS and the presence of aPL and AECA are risk factors for decreased HRI values in SLE patients. 3. There is a significant reverse relationship between HRI values and the duration of the disease and the presence of thromboembolic changes in SLE patients.
Annales Academiae Medicae Stetinensis, 2006
It was confirmed experimentally that antiendothelial cell antibodies (AECA) react directly with t... more It was confirmed experimentally that antiendothelial cell antibodies (AECA) react directly with the vascular endothelium and are involved in the pathogenesis of vasculitis. There is evidence for a role of AECA in atherosclerosis. To search for correlations between intima-media thickness (IMT) and high titer of AECA in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). IMT of carotid arteries was measured with B-mode ultrasound in 103 SLE patients and 30 healthy subjects (control group). The presence of AECA was determined with indirect immunofluorescence using human umbilical vein endothelial cells as target. Statistical analysis was performed with chi2 Yates, chi2 Pearson, R Spearman rank test, and logistic multivariate regression analysis. Normal IMT (< or = 0.65 mm) was found in 34 patients. In 52 patients, IMT was 0.66-0.86 mm and in 17 it exceeded 0.86 mm. The difference in comparison with the control group was significant (p = 0.0002). High titers of AECA were significantly ...
Mediators of Inflammation, 2015
To assess serum interleukin-6 (IL-6) and interleukin-23 (IL-23) and their correlation with angiog... more To assess serum interleukin-6 (IL-6) and interleukin-23 (IL-23) and their correlation with angiogenic cytokines and disease activity in ankylosing spondylitis (AS), psoriatic arthritis (PsA), and SAPHO syndrome. We studied 152 spondyloarthritis (SpA) patients: 69 PsA, 61 AS, 22 SAPHO, and 29 controls. We recorded age, sex, disease duration, and treatment. We assessed BASDAI, VAS, and PASI scores. Serum IL-6, IL-23, VEGF, EGF, FGFb, and FGFa levels were determined using ELISA. We estimated ESR and CRP. Serum IL-6 and IL-23 levels were higher in SpA than in control (P &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt; 0.00001 and P = 0.0004, resp.). There was a positive correlation between serum IL-6 and CRP in AS (P = 0.000001), PsA (P = 0.000001), and SAPHO (P = 0.0003) patients. There was a positive correlation between serum IL-6 and ESR in AS (P = 0.000001), PsA (P = 0.002), and SAPHO (P = 0.02) patients. There was no correlation of serum IL-6 and IL-23 with VAS, BASDAI, and angiogenic cytokines in SpA. Serum IL-6 but not serum IL-23 correlated with ESR and CRP in SpA. No correlation was found of serum IL-6 and IL-23 with VAS, BASDAI, and angiogenic cytokines.
Polskie Archiwum Medycyny Wewnętrznej, 2007
Atherosclerosis is an important clinical problem in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (S... more Atherosclerosis is an important clinical problem in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), because of very severe cardiovascular and central nervous system manifestations. Estimation if antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) and antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) are risk factors for subclinical atherosclerosis in patients with SLE. We examined 103 patients with SLE and 30 healthy volunteers, included as the control group. Coexistence of APS was confirmed in 35 patients. Evaluation of subclinical atherosclerosis was done on the basis of measurement of intima-media thickness (IMT) in B-mode ultrasound examination. We considered classical atherosclerotic risk factors and determined profile of aPL: anti-cardiolipine antibodies (aCL), anti beta2 glycoprotein-I antibodies, antiprothrombin antibodies (aPT), anti-oxidized low-density lipoprotein antibodies and lupus anticoagulant (LA). Statistical analysis was performed with chi2 Yates, chi2 Pearson and R rang Spearman tests. Multivaria...
Atherosclerosis Supplements, 2011
Background: Cardiovascular disease risk is increased in patients with type 2 diabetes and statins... more Background: Cardiovascular disease risk is increased in patients with type 2 diabetes and statins are known to reduce this risk by lowering apolipoprotein B100-containing lipoproteins. In diabetes lipoproteins, such as chylomicron remnants, the atherogenicity of which is mediated through apolipoprotein E, are also increased. The effect of statins on apoE concentration and influence of APOE genotype on the lipoprotein response to statin therapy have not been studied previously. Methods: We compared the effect of atorvastatin 10 and 80 mg/day randomly allocated to 85 patients with type 2 diabetes and serum creatinine <200 mmol/L on apoE and the influence of APOE genotype. Apo E was assayed using an ELISA and the APOE genotype was determined by DNA analysis. Results: There were no significant differences in any baseline parameters. At baseline, patients with an APOE2 allele had a significantly higher apoE concentration. High-dose atorvastatin, but not low-dose, significantly reduced total apoE concentration at 6 months (p < 0.01) and at 12 months (p < 0.001). The effect of atorvastatin on apoE level was most marked in patients possessing an APOE3 and E4, but no decrease occurred in those possessing an APOE2 allele. The decrease in apoE level correlated with the decreases in triglycerides and apolipoprotein B.There was a suggestion that LDL-C decreased more in patients with an APOE3 allele. Conclusions: ApoE concentration decreased significantly in patients treated with high-dose atorvastatin. The APOE genotype influenced lipoprotein response to atorvastatin. This may partially explain variations in response and benefit from statins in diabetes.
Medical science monitor : international medical journal of experimental and clinical research, 2004
HRI is a new Doppler index calculated as a ratio between S -maximal systolic flow and D -maximal ... more HRI is a new Doppler index calculated as a ratio between S -maximal systolic flow and D -maximal early diastolic reversed flow -HRI=D/S. The aim of the study is to evaluate the diagnostic significance of HRI calculated from the Doppler spectrum of popliteal arteries in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) with and without secondary antiphospholipid syndrome (SAPS) compared with healthy controls. During 9-month period (May 2003 -January 2004), 93 patients (81 women and 12 men) with SLE (including 24 patients with SAPS) and 30 healthy controls (24 women and 6 men) underwent bilateral duplex Doppler examinations of lower limb arteries. The examinations were performed using HDI 3500 (ATL) with 5 -12 MHz linear transducer under standardized conditions: correct insonation angle and sample volume size, with the patient in a supine position, after 10 minutes rest. Mean HRI value obtained in the control group was 0.415 (range 0.305 -0.555; median 0.402). In the group of SLE patie...
Polskie Archiwum Medycyny Wewnętrznej, 2013
Angiogenesis is involved in the pathogenesis of arthritis. The aim of the study was to assess the... more Angiogenesis is involved in the pathogenesis of arthritis. The aim of the study was to assess the serum levels of selected angiogenic cytokines and their association with clinical presentation in patients with psoriatic arthritis (PsA) and SAPHO syndrome. We studied 98 patients: 80 with PsA and 18 with SAPHO syndrome. The following data were recorded: age, sex, disease duration, joint involvement, type of psoriasis, nail involvement, and treatment. The following indices used to assess the activity of PsA and SAPHO were measured: PASI, BASDAI, BASFI, BASMI, BASG, and VAS pain. We determined erythrocyte sedimentation rate, C‑reactive protein (CRP), and platelet count. The serum levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), epidermal growth factor (EGF), basic and acidic fibroblast growth factors (FGFb and FGFa) were determined using an enzyme‑linked immunosorbent assay. In patients with PsA, VEGF levels were positively correlated with CRP (P = 0.04), BASFI (P = 0.03), and disea...
Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases, 2012
ABSTRACT Background Cytokine-mediated immunity plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of variou... more ABSTRACT Background Cytokine-mediated immunity plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of various autoimmune diseases including systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Interleukin 23 (IL-23) may be involved in pathogenesis of SLE. Moreover, recent studies showed that targeting of IL-23 or the IL-23 receptor is a potential therapeutic approach for autoimmune diseases including SLE. Objectives To evaluate association between serum levels of IL-23 and selected characteristics of the disease in SLE patients. Methods Study was performed in 94 SLE patients (82 women and 12 men) aged 19-73 years and in 27 age and gender matched controls. Serum IL-23 was measured by ELISA method with R&D Systems tests. The evaluation of atherosclerotic changes was performed on the basis of: intima-media thickness measurement and the presence of atherosclerotic plaques in carotid and lower extremities arteries with B-mode ultrasound and ankle-brachial index measurement with Doppler ultrasonography. Furthermore, we assessed vascular resistance on the basis of high resistance index measurement from Doppler spectrum of popliteal arteries. Those investigations were performed using HDI 3500 (ATL) with 5-12 MHz linear transducer. We also took into account classical cardiovascular risk factors (hypertension, dyslipidemia, hyperglycemia, overweight/obesity, smoking, oral contraceptives, positive family history of cardiovascular disease), selected clinical manifestations (cardiovascular, cerebrovascular, lupus nephritis, Raynaud’s phenomenon, livedo reticularis, vasculitis, other thromboembolic complications), profile of autoantibodies (antinuclear, antiphospholipid, anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic, anti-endothelial cell). Statistical analysis was performed with: chi2Yates, chi2Pearson, rank Spearman correlations tests, logistic regression analysis and multivariate stepwise analysis. Results Concentrations of IL-23 significantly differed between SLE patients and the controls (p=0,0005). Patients with high levels of IL-23 more frequently developed atherosclerosis showed as the presence of plaques in right common femoral artery and lupus nephritis (OR=10,1; 95%CI:1,2-85,1 and OR=3,2; 95%CI:1,1-9,6 respectively). However, from classical atherosclerotic risk factors only obesity was significantly associated with IL-23 (OR=3,8; 95%CI:1,2-12,3). Immunological characteristics significantly related to IL-23 were anti-phosphatidylethanolamine antibodies, especially of IgG class (OR=12,7; 95%CI:1,5-108,1) and anti-SS-B antibodies (OR=11,8; 95%CI:1,5-94,8). Association with anti-cardiolipin and anti-prothrombin antibodies of IgG class was on the border of statistical significance (OR=2,3; 95%CI:0,9-5,7 and OR=8,4; 95%CI:1,0-71,1 respectively). Conclusions 1. IL-23 may be involved in lupus nephritis pathogenesis. 2. IL-23 trough its significant association with obesity and antiphospholipid antibodies may promote hypercoagulable state contributing to atherothrombosis development in SLE patients. Disclosure of Interest None Declared
Polskie Archiwum Medycyny Wewnętrznej, Jan 31, 2015
Polskie Archiwum Medycyny Wewnętrznej, 2014
Antiphosphatidylethanolamine antibodies (aPE) and antiphosphatidylserine antibodies (aPS) belong ... more Antiphosphatidylethanolamine antibodies (aPE) and antiphosphatidylserine antibodies (aPS) belong to a group of antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) that occur in patients with antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The aim of this study was to examine associations between the elevated serum concentration of aPE/aPS, the clinical manifestations of SLE, and the presence of other autoantibodies. The study group included 71 patients with SLE. The control group comprised 36 healthy volunteers. In both groups, serum aPS and aPE concentrations were measured with enzyme‑linked immunosorbent assays. Clinical data, including clinical manifestations and the laboratory markers of SLE, were obtained from medical records. The study revealed a higher prevalence of aPE in patients with SLE than in controls (54.93% vs. 5.56%). aPS were observed in the study group less frequently compared with aPE (12.68% vs. 54.93%) and were absent in controls. Anticardiolipin antibodie...
Annales Academiae Medicae Stetinensis, 2008
The aim of the study was: (1) The evaluation of the frequency of intima-media thickening (IMT) an... more The aim of the study was: (1) The evaluation of the frequency of intima-media thickening (IMT) and the presence of atherosclerotic plaques in carotid arteries in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in comparison with the control group. (2) The evaluation of the correlation between IMT and the presence of atherosclerotic plaques in carotid arteries in patients with SLE and the association of selected immunological and genetic parameters, markers of inflammation, traditional risk factors of atherosclerosis and its treatment. (3) The evaluation of practical usefulness of IMT measurement in diagnostics of early atherosclerosis and the evaluation of risk of its complications in patients with SLE. (4) The evaluation of the correlation between IMT and the presence of atherosclerotic plaques in carotid arteries and selected systemic complications in patients with SLE. In a group of 103 SLE patients and 30 healthy people (control group) was performed B-mode ultrasound examinatio...
Polskie archiwum medycyny wewnȩtrznej
Atherosclerosis is an important clinical problem in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (S... more Atherosclerosis is an important clinical problem in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), because of very severe cardiovascular and central nervous system manifestations. Estimation if antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) and antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) are risk factors for subclinical atherosclerosis in patients with SLE. We examined 103 patients with SLE and 30 healthy volunteers, included as the control group. Coexistence of APS was confirmed in 35 patients. Evaluation of subclinical atherosclerosis was done on the basis of measurement of intima-media thickness (IMT) in B-mode ultrasound examination. We considered classical atherosclerotic risk factors and determined profile of aPL: anti-cardiolipine antibodies (aCL), anti beta2 glycoprotein-I antibodies, antiprothrombin antibodies (aPT), anti-oxidized low-density lipoprotein antibodies and lupus anticoagulant (LA). Statistical analysis was performed with chi2 Yates, chi2 Pearson and R rang Spearman tests. Multivaria...
The Israel Medical Association journal : IMAJ, 2012
Polski merkuriusz lekarski : organ Polskiego Towarzystwa Lekarskiego, 2006
Cardiovascular system involvement is the third most common reason of death in patients with syste... more Cardiovascular system involvement is the third most common reason of death in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The aim of this study was to assess the cardiac involvement in the SLE patients with a regard to clinical, serological and environmental risk factors. 103 patients were included into the study, 91 women and 12 men, aged 16-74 yrs, the control group included 25 subjects. Physical examination, two-dimensional guided M-mode and Doppler echocardiographic recordings were performed. The tests for the presence of ANA, ENA, antiphospholipid antibodies (aCL, LA, anti-beta2GPI and antiprothrombin antibodies), ANCA (anti-neutrophil cytoplasm antibodies), AECA (anti endothelial cell antibodies) were carried out. The following pathologies were significantly more common in the SLE patients: pericardial involvement (58%), organic changes of the mitral valve cusps (54%), organic changes of the aortic valve cusps (36%), widening of the aortal lumen (35%), enlargement of the...
Antiphospholipid Syndrome, 2012
Molecular Biology Reports, 2014
To assess the association between PTPN22 1858C[T gene polymorphism and susceptibility to, and cli... more To assess the association between PTPN22 1858C[T gene polymorphism and susceptibility to, and clinical presentation of, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Our study included 135 SLE patients (120 women and 15 men; mean age 45.1 years; mean course of disease from 0.5 to 31 years) and 201 healthy subjects. The PTPN22 1858C[T gene polymorphism was genotyped by polymerase chain reaction restriction fragment length polymorphism. A significantly higher incidence of genotype CT in patients with SLE (36.3 %) was found, compared with the control group (24.9 %). The frequencies of C1858 and T1858 alleles were 78.1 and 21.9 % in SLE patients and 86.1 and 13.9 % in controls, respectively. Significantly higher SLE susceptibility was observed in patients carrying at least one T allele (p = 0.009; OR 1.86; 95 % CI 0.14-3.05). Significant association of the PTPN22 T1858 allele (CT ? TT vs.CC) and secondary antiphospholipid syndrome was observed (p = 0.049). In SLE patients carrying the T1858 allele, higher levels of antiphospholipid antibodies (anticardiolipin antibodies and/or lupus anticoagulant) were found (p = 0.030; OR 2.17; 95 % CI 1.07-4.44).
Annales Academiae Medicae Stetinensis, 2012
Hemangioma is found in approximately 10% of infants as the most prevalent benign neoplasm. The na... more Hemangioma is found in approximately 10% of infants as the most prevalent benign neoplasm. The natural history of hemangioma is typical for this lesion and includes two phases: fast growth during the first year of life of the child and subsequent slow regression lasting some five years. Even though the etiopathogenesis of hemangioma has not been fully elucidated, the role played in this process by vascular growth factors remains unquestionable. The aim of this work was to assess the value of serum levels of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and placental-derived growth factor (PlGF) for therapy planning in infants with hemangiomas. The study group comprised 43 infants, aged 2 weeks to 6 months, with hemangiomas on the body. 25 girls and 11 boys participated in the second stage of the study done 14 months later. We analyzed correlations between serum levels of vascular growth factors and phase of hemangioma, clinical symptoms, and findings in ultrasonography with Power Do...
Rheumatology International, 2010
Early diagnosis of subclinical atherosclerosis can be established using noninvasive imaging techn... more Early diagnosis of subclinical atherosclerosis can be established using noninvasive imaging techniques, which enable to assess atherosclerotic lesions at different stages of their development, from endothelial dysfunction, through morphological lesions in the arteries, to advanced atherosclerotic plaques. Given high risk of accelerated development of atherosclerotic lesions in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), these techniques should be incorporated in routine diagnostic evaluation in this population. Cardiovascular risk factors in patients with SLE differ significantly from those observed in the general population. Chronic inflammation and the presence of autoantibodies play the key role, while classic risk factors are less important. Subclinical atherosclerotic lesions can be detected in 30% to 40% of the SLE patients. The occurrence of severe symptoms in the cardiovascular and central nervous systems can be caused by such lesions. Recent data indicate that the main causes of death in this patient group represent cardiovascular complications. Early identification of patients in the risk group allows to implement appropriate prophylactic and therapeutic procedures.
Rheumatology, Apr 1, 2014
RR) 7.88, 95% CI 4.10, 15.17, P < 0.0001; late: 8% vs 1% respectively, RR 9.96, 95% CI 1.88, 52.8... more RR) 7.88, 95% CI 4.10, 15.17, P < 0.0001; late: 8% vs 1% respectively, RR 9.96, 95% CI 1.88, 52.87, P ¼ 0.0081). Ab positivity was associated with abnormal NFC (P ¼ 0.025 for any Ab, P ¼ 0.019 for ANA, P < 0.001 for ACA). The RR of detecting a SSc NFC pattern (early/active/late) if ANA or ACA þve was 1.88 (1.16, 3.05, P ¼ 0.0067) and 2.59 (95% CI 1.80, 3.72, P < 0.001) respectively. A history of previous DU in sRP was also associated with abnormal NFC (P ¼ 0.015) and SSc NFC pattern (RR 2.59, 95% CI 1.70, 3.96, P ¼ 0.0037). Abþve with a SSc NFC pattern conferred an OR of SSc-sRP of 11.03 (95% CI 4.81, 25.77, P < 0.0001); early: 3.22 (95% CI 1.24, 8.15, P < 0.0119), active: 7.6 (95% CI 2.87, 20.56, P < 0.0001), late: 7.12 (95% CI 0.97, 80.25, P < 0.0273). Conclusion: NFC abnormalities are commonly seen in RP of any cause, however active and late vasculopathy patterns are rarely visualized in RP not related to SSc. Presence of Ab or previous DU is associated with abnormal NFC. Presence of Ab with SSc NFC pattern greatly increases odds of having SSc-related sRP.
Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases, 2014
ABSTRACT High resistance index (HRI), evaluated on the basis of Doppler spectrum of popliteal art... more ABSTRACT High resistance index (HRI), evaluated on the basis of Doppler spectrum of popliteal arteries, enables detection of subclinical changes in small vessels in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients. To evaluate the association between decreased values of HRI in SLE patients and selected immunological parameters, the presence of markers of inflammation and classical risk factors for atherosclerosis and also selected clinical manifestations. The investigation was performed in 76 patients with SLE (age 20-73 years). The mean course of the disease was 8.7 years. The coexistence of APS was confirmed in 17 patients (22.4%). The control group consisted of 30 healthy people. All the duplex Doppler examinations of popliteal arteries were performed with HDI 3500 (ATL) using 5- 12 MHz linear transducer under standardised conditions. We evaluated the presence of anti-endothelial antibodies (AECA) and profiles of anti-nuclear antibodies, anti-phospholipid antibodies (aPL) and anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies. We also analysed markers of inflammation (C-reactive protein, erythrocyte sedimentation rate and fibrinogen), classical risk factors for atherosclerosis (hypertension, hyperglycaemia, hyperlipidaemia, smoking and positive family history for cardiovascular disease) and clinical complications including cardiovascular and central nervous system manifestations, lupus nephritis, thromboembolic disorders and vasculitis. Statistical analysis was performed with chi(2)Yates, chi(2)Pearson, rank Spearman correlations tests. Logistic regression analysis and multivariate stepwise analysis were also done. All statistical analyses were performed with STATA 11. We found that HRI values in patients with SLE were significantly lower in comparison with the control group (p< 0.0001). We also showed that the coexistence of APS significantly increased risk of lower values of HRI presence (OR = 11.40; 95% CI:1.69-77.03), and from among aPL the most significant were aCL IgG (OR = 7.43; 95% CI:1.82-30.36), aCL IgM (OR = 7.83; 95% CI:1.08-56.53) and anti- β2-GPI antibodies (OR = 5.76; 95% CI:1.17-28.26). Other serological markers, which significantly influenced decreased values of HRI were AECA (OR = 14.84; 95% CI:2.76-79.66). Furthermore, we found significant negative correlation between HRI values and the presence of thromboembolic disorders (R = -0.25; p = 0.0299) and the duration of SLE (R = -0.23; p = 0.0427). We have found no associations between decreased HRI values and the rest of analysed variables. 1. HRI values are significantly decreased in SLE patients. 2. The coexistence of APS and the presence of aPL and AECA are risk factors for decreased HRI values in SLE patients. 3. There is a significant reverse relationship between HRI values and the duration of the disease and the presence of thromboembolic changes in SLE patients.
Annales Academiae Medicae Stetinensis, 2006
It was confirmed experimentally that antiendothelial cell antibodies (AECA) react directly with t... more It was confirmed experimentally that antiendothelial cell antibodies (AECA) react directly with the vascular endothelium and are involved in the pathogenesis of vasculitis. There is evidence for a role of AECA in atherosclerosis. To search for correlations between intima-media thickness (IMT) and high titer of AECA in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). IMT of carotid arteries was measured with B-mode ultrasound in 103 SLE patients and 30 healthy subjects (control group). The presence of AECA was determined with indirect immunofluorescence using human umbilical vein endothelial cells as target. Statistical analysis was performed with chi2 Yates, chi2 Pearson, R Spearman rank test, and logistic multivariate regression analysis. Normal IMT (< or = 0.65 mm) was found in 34 patients. In 52 patients, IMT was 0.66-0.86 mm and in 17 it exceeded 0.86 mm. The difference in comparison with the control group was significant (p = 0.0002). High titers of AECA were significantly ...
Mediators of Inflammation, 2015
To assess serum interleukin-6 (IL-6) and interleukin-23 (IL-23) and their correlation with angiog... more To assess serum interleukin-6 (IL-6) and interleukin-23 (IL-23) and their correlation with angiogenic cytokines and disease activity in ankylosing spondylitis (AS), psoriatic arthritis (PsA), and SAPHO syndrome. We studied 152 spondyloarthritis (SpA) patients: 69 PsA, 61 AS, 22 SAPHO, and 29 controls. We recorded age, sex, disease duration, and treatment. We assessed BASDAI, VAS, and PASI scores. Serum IL-6, IL-23, VEGF, EGF, FGFb, and FGFa levels were determined using ELISA. We estimated ESR and CRP. Serum IL-6 and IL-23 levels were higher in SpA than in control (P &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt; 0.00001 and P = 0.0004, resp.). There was a positive correlation between serum IL-6 and CRP in AS (P = 0.000001), PsA (P = 0.000001), and SAPHO (P = 0.0003) patients. There was a positive correlation between serum IL-6 and ESR in AS (P = 0.000001), PsA (P = 0.002), and SAPHO (P = 0.02) patients. There was no correlation of serum IL-6 and IL-23 with VAS, BASDAI, and angiogenic cytokines in SpA. Serum IL-6 but not serum IL-23 correlated with ESR and CRP in SpA. No correlation was found of serum IL-6 and IL-23 with VAS, BASDAI, and angiogenic cytokines.
Polskie Archiwum Medycyny Wewnętrznej, 2007
Atherosclerosis is an important clinical problem in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (S... more Atherosclerosis is an important clinical problem in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), because of very severe cardiovascular and central nervous system manifestations. Estimation if antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) and antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) are risk factors for subclinical atherosclerosis in patients with SLE. We examined 103 patients with SLE and 30 healthy volunteers, included as the control group. Coexistence of APS was confirmed in 35 patients. Evaluation of subclinical atherosclerosis was done on the basis of measurement of intima-media thickness (IMT) in B-mode ultrasound examination. We considered classical atherosclerotic risk factors and determined profile of aPL: anti-cardiolipine antibodies (aCL), anti beta2 glycoprotein-I antibodies, antiprothrombin antibodies (aPT), anti-oxidized low-density lipoprotein antibodies and lupus anticoagulant (LA). Statistical analysis was performed with chi2 Yates, chi2 Pearson and R rang Spearman tests. Multivaria...
Atherosclerosis Supplements, 2011
Background: Cardiovascular disease risk is increased in patients with type 2 diabetes and statins... more Background: Cardiovascular disease risk is increased in patients with type 2 diabetes and statins are known to reduce this risk by lowering apolipoprotein B100-containing lipoproteins. In diabetes lipoproteins, such as chylomicron remnants, the atherogenicity of which is mediated through apolipoprotein E, are also increased. The effect of statins on apoE concentration and influence of APOE genotype on the lipoprotein response to statin therapy have not been studied previously. Methods: We compared the effect of atorvastatin 10 and 80 mg/day randomly allocated to 85 patients with type 2 diabetes and serum creatinine <200 mmol/L on apoE and the influence of APOE genotype. Apo E was assayed using an ELISA and the APOE genotype was determined by DNA analysis. Results: There were no significant differences in any baseline parameters. At baseline, patients with an APOE2 allele had a significantly higher apoE concentration. High-dose atorvastatin, but not low-dose, significantly reduced total apoE concentration at 6 months (p < 0.01) and at 12 months (p < 0.001). The effect of atorvastatin on apoE level was most marked in patients possessing an APOE3 and E4, but no decrease occurred in those possessing an APOE2 allele. The decrease in apoE level correlated with the decreases in triglycerides and apolipoprotein B.There was a suggestion that LDL-C decreased more in patients with an APOE3 allele. Conclusions: ApoE concentration decreased significantly in patients treated with high-dose atorvastatin. The APOE genotype influenced lipoprotein response to atorvastatin. This may partially explain variations in response and benefit from statins in diabetes.
Medical science monitor : international medical journal of experimental and clinical research, 2004
HRI is a new Doppler index calculated as a ratio between S -maximal systolic flow and D -maximal ... more HRI is a new Doppler index calculated as a ratio between S -maximal systolic flow and D -maximal early diastolic reversed flow -HRI=D/S. The aim of the study is to evaluate the diagnostic significance of HRI calculated from the Doppler spectrum of popliteal arteries in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) with and without secondary antiphospholipid syndrome (SAPS) compared with healthy controls. During 9-month period (May 2003 -January 2004), 93 patients (81 women and 12 men) with SLE (including 24 patients with SAPS) and 30 healthy controls (24 women and 6 men) underwent bilateral duplex Doppler examinations of lower limb arteries. The examinations were performed using HDI 3500 (ATL) with 5 -12 MHz linear transducer under standardized conditions: correct insonation angle and sample volume size, with the patient in a supine position, after 10 minutes rest. Mean HRI value obtained in the control group was 0.415 (range 0.305 -0.555; median 0.402). In the group of SLE patie...
Polskie Archiwum Medycyny Wewnętrznej, 2013
Angiogenesis is involved in the pathogenesis of arthritis. The aim of the study was to assess the... more Angiogenesis is involved in the pathogenesis of arthritis. The aim of the study was to assess the serum levels of selected angiogenic cytokines and their association with clinical presentation in patients with psoriatic arthritis (PsA) and SAPHO syndrome. We studied 98 patients: 80 with PsA and 18 with SAPHO syndrome. The following data were recorded: age, sex, disease duration, joint involvement, type of psoriasis, nail involvement, and treatment. The following indices used to assess the activity of PsA and SAPHO were measured: PASI, BASDAI, BASFI, BASMI, BASG, and VAS pain. We determined erythrocyte sedimentation rate, C‑reactive protein (CRP), and platelet count. The serum levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), epidermal growth factor (EGF), basic and acidic fibroblast growth factors (FGFb and FGFa) were determined using an enzyme‑linked immunosorbent assay. In patients with PsA, VEGF levels were positively correlated with CRP (P = 0.04), BASFI (P = 0.03), and disea...