Increased Adhesive Potential of Antiphospholipid Syndrome Neutrophils Mediated by β2 Integrin Mac-1.

Objective: While the role of antiphospholipid antibodies in activating endothelial cells has been extensively studied, the impact of these antibodies on the adhesive potential of leukocytes has received less attention. This study was undertaken to investigate the extent to which antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) neutrophils adhere to resting endothelial cells under physiologic flow conditions and the surface molecules required for that adhesion.

Methods: Patients with primary APS (n = 43), patients with a history of venous thrombosis but negative test results for antiphospholipid antibodies (n = 11), and healthy controls (n = 38) were studied.

Adenosine receptor agonism protects against NETosis and thrombosis in antiphospholipid syndrome.

Potentiation of neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) release is one mechanism by which antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL Abs) effect thrombotic events in patients with antiphospholipid syndrome (APS). Surface adenosine receptors trigger cyclic AMP (cAMP) formation in neutrophils, and this mechanism has been proposed to regulate NETosis in some contexts. Here we report that selective agonism of the adenosine A receptor (CGS21680) suppresses aPL Ab-mediated NETosis in protein kinase A-dependent fashion.

Cryptic conspirators: a conversation about thrombocytopenia and antiphospholipid syndrome.

Purpose Of Review: Although antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is best known for conveying increased risk of thrombotic events and pregnancy morbidity, thrombocytopenia is also recognized as a common association. In this review, we will explore the relationship between thrombocytopenia and APS, highlighting our evolving understanding - and persistent knowledge gaps - through clinically oriented questions and answers.

Recent Findings: A history of thrombocytopenia likely portends a more severe APS phenotype (including increased risk of thrombosis).

Rheumatologists Modestly More Likely to Counsel Smokers in Visits Without Rheumatoid Arthritis Control: An Observational Study.

Background: Among patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), smoking increases risk of severe RA and pulmonary and cardiovascular disease. Despite this, little is known about smoking cessation counseling by rheumatologists.

Objectives: We examined predictors of tobacco counseling in RA patients who smoke including the effect of perceived RA control.