Background: Schnitzler syndrome is a rare disorder characterized by a chronic urticarial rash and monoclonal gammopathy (IgM in more than 90% of the cases). It is difficult to distinguish from other neutrophilic urticarial dermatoses, and diagnosis is based on the Strasbourg criteria. Interleukin-1 is considered the key mediator, and interleukin-1 inhibitors are considered first line treatment.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFEosinophilic fasciitis (EF) is a rare disorder involving chronic inflammation of the fascia and connective tissue surrounding muscles, nerves, and blood vessels. While its pathogenesis is not entirely understood, this disorder is thought to be autoimmune or allergic in nature. We present here a case of a 59-year-old male who developed peripheral eosinophilia and subsequent eosinophilic fasciitis during treatment with infliximab.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFThis review summarizes the current literature regarding the ocular complications of hydroxychloroquine. Hydroxychloroquine has been used since the 1950s for the treatment of various rheumatic and dermatologic diseases. Hydroxychloroquine can cause ocular toxicity, with the most serious being an irreversible retinopathy.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFThis review summarizes the diagnosis, clinical manifestations and management of giant cell arteritis. Giant cell arteritis is an immune-mediated vasculitis of medium to large sized arteries that affects individuals older than the age of 50. Patients typically present with signs of vascular insufficiency of the extracranial arteries of the head and systemic inflammation.
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