Microparticles: potential new contributors to the pathogenesis of systemic sclerosis?

Background: Microparticles (MPs) are membrane-derived vesicles released from cells undergoing activation or apoptosis with diverse proinflammatory and prothrombotic activities, that have been implicated in the pathogenesis of systemic sclerosis (SSc). We aimed to evaluate the plasma levels of platelet-derived microparticles (PMPs), endothelial cell-derived microparticles (EMPs), and monocyte-derived microparticles (MMPs) in SSc patients, and the association between MPs and the clinical features of SSc.

Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 70 patients with SSc and 35 age- and sex-matched healthy controls were evaluated.

Severity and mortality of COVID-19 in patients with systemic sclerosis: a Brazilian multicenter study.

Introduction: COVID-19 may be associated with greater severity and mortality in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc). The present study aimed to evaluate the prevalence, severity and mortality of COVID-19 in a Brazilian cohort of SSc patients.

Methods: This multicenter, retrospective, observational study included 1,042 SSc patients followed in four centers of São Paulo between March 2020 and June 2021.

Intestinal parasites infection: protective effect in rheumatoid arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic autoimmune inflammatory disease, with a progressive course, characterized by chronic synovitis that may evolve with deformities and functional disability, and whose early treatment minimizes joint damage. Its etiopathogenesis is not fully elucidated but comprises immunologic responses mediated by T helper cells (Th1). An apparent minor severity of RA in patients from regions with lower income could be associated with a higher prevalence of gut parasites, especially helminths.

Parasites in Rheumatoid Arthritis: Imminent Threat or Protective Effect?

Parasitic infections are among the oldest and most common infections in humans. Host defense alterations caused by autoimmune diseases or immunosuppressive drugs can cause modifications of the symptoms: indolent parasites can be reactivated, asymptomatic patients may experience new symptoms, or mild or moderate symptoms can become serious and, rarely, may lead to death. In recent years, new drugs have been used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), causing a greater level of immunosuppression and, therefore, more concerns regarding the risk of serious parasitic diseases.

Paraneoplastic cutaneous manifestations: concepts and updates.

The skin often signals systemic changes. Some neoplastic diseases that affect internal organs may trigger several cutaneous manifestations. Although these dermatoses are relatively unusual, the recognition of some typical paraneoplastic dermatoses may lead to the early diagnosis of a neoplasm and determine a better prognosis.