Determination of serum free light chains as a marker of systemic lupus flare.

Introduction: The aim of this study was to explore the usefulness of the determination of free light chains (FLC) in serum as a biomarker of flare in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and to analyze the differences in their discriminatory capacity with complement C3 and C4.

Methods: This was a prospective cohort study. The definition of flare was based on the Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI) Flare Index.

Prevalence of Celiac Disease in a Long-term Study of a Spanish At-genetic-risk Cohort From the General Population.

Objectives: To perform long-term celiac disease (CD) screening in an HLA-DQ2 (+) cohort from the general population and to assess the influence of risk genotypes on its development.

Methods: In 2004, an HLA-DQ2 (+) cohort was selected. After the first CD screening at age 2 to 3 years, we performed a follow-up screening 8 to 10 years later.

Prevalence and Natural History of Celiac Disease in a Cohort of At-risk Children.

Objectives: To assess the prevalence and clinical presentation of celiac disease (CD) in a cohort of children with HLA-DQ2 positive and evaluate the risk factors in the development of CD.

Methods: Between July 2004 and July 2005, parents of all healthy full-term newborns in our hospital were invited to participate. HLA-DQ2 was tested in blood sample of the umbilical cord.