RA, SLE + mAb Flashcards
What is the main auto-antibody found in blood tests for RA?
Rheumatoid factor - autoantibodies to Fc portion of IgG
What other auto-antibodies can occur in RA?
anti-CCP
ACPA
Over-production of which cytokine leads to synovitis?
TNF-alpha
What can occur in the lungs in patients with RA?
Nodules
Pleural effusion, interstitial lung disease
What are three other non-articular manifestations of RA?
Pericarditis
Anaemia
Carpal tunnel syndrome
(PAC)
What type of hypersensitivity reaction is involved in SLE?
Type 3 mainly
What is pathophysiology of SLE?
Cell apoptosis - blebs carrying antigens with nuclear components, inefficient phagocytosis means they travel to lymphoid tissue, taken up by APCs and generate T and B cell response and autoantibodies.
What is the result of the auto-antibodies generated in SLE?
- Form circulating complexes or bind to tissues directly
- Activate complement, neutrophil influx causes inflammation
- Cytokine production
What is the main auto-antibody found in SLE blood tests?
Antinuclear/Anti-DNA
What other autoantibodies can occur in SLE?
Anti-Sm antibodies
Antiphospholipid antibodies
The skin is often involved in SLE. Give 5 features.
Butterfly rash on face Photosensitivity Urticaria Vasculitis Purpura
What might you find in FBC of a patient with SLE?
Anaemia
Low WBC
Low platelets
What test would help confirm if autoimmune haemolytic anaemia was present in a patient with SLE?
Coombs test
Other than skin, what other body systems can be involved in SLE?
Kidneys - glomerulonephritis Heart - pericarditis, endocarditis Lungs - pleural effusion NS - fits, psychosis Blood - anaemia, thrombocytopenia
What is the treatment for SLE?
Mycophenolate mofetil
Azathioprine
Steroids
Cyclophosphamide if severe
