Patients with autoimmune inflammatory rheumatic diseases (AIIRDs) are at increased risk for severe infections. Vaccine responses and safety profiles may differ between AIIRD patients and the general population. While patients with autoimmune inflammatory rheumatic diseases (AIIRDs) often experience diminished humoral responses and reduced vaccine efficacy, factors such as the type of immunosuppressant medications used and the specific vaccine employed contribute to these outcomes. Notably, individuals undergoing B cell depletion therapy tend to have poor vaccine immunogenicity. However, despite these considerations, vaccine responses are generally considered clinically sufficient. Ideally, immunosuppressed AIIRD patients should receive vaccinations at least two weeks before commencing immunosuppressive treatment. However, it is common for many patients to already be on immunosuppressants during the immunization process. Vaccination rarely triggers flares in AIIRDs; if flares occur, they are typically mild. Despite the heightened infection risk, including COVID-19, among AIIRD patients with rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, sarcoidosis, and other diseases on immunosuppressants, the vaccination rates remain suboptimal. The future directions of vaccination in the era of immunosuppression will likely involve customized vaccines with enhanced adjuvants and alternative delivery methods. By addressing the unique challenges faced by immunosuppressed individuals, we may improve vaccine efficacy, reduce the risk of infections, and ultimately enhance the health outcomes. Additionally, clinical trials to evaluate the safety and efficacy of temporarily discontinuing immunosuppressants during vaccination in various AIIRDs are crucial.
Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a chronic, inflammatory rheumatic disease. We aim to describe the characteristics of PsA patients and examine factors affecting their psychological and physical well-being. This multicenter, cross-sectional study enrolled consecutive PsA patients from rheumatology clinics over six months. Data was collected through questionnaires and chart reviews. Disease activity was assessed using Disease Activity in Psoriatic Arthritis (DAPSA) and Psoriatic Arthritis Impact of Disease-12 (PsAID-12), with fibromyalgia and psychological well-being screened via Fibromyalgia Rapid Screening Tool (FiRST) and Patient Health Questionnaire-4 (PHQ-4), respectively. The study enrolled 105 patients with a mean age of 45.6 ± 12.9, and 46.7% (N = 49) were males. The predominant disease type was polyarthritis (80%, N = 84), with 90.5% (N = 95) having psoriasis (PSO). Arthritis and PSO were diagnosed simultaneously in 18 patients (17.1%), arthritis preceded PSO in 11 patients (10.5%) by 3.5 ± 3.8 years, and PSO preceded arthritis in 76 patients (72.4%) by 10.65 ± 11.27 years. The diagnostic delay of PsA was 3.1 ± 4.9 years. Methotrexate was used by 50.5% (N = 53) and 20% (N = 21) used anti-TNF. Severe disease activity, according to DAPSA scores, was present in 38.1%, positive screening for fibromyalgia in 29.5% (N = 31), and 35.2% (N = 37) had severe depression and anxiety-related symptoms. Using multivariate regression analysis, Obesity (OR = 3.267, 95% CI: 1.015–10.513) and the presence of CVD (OR = 4.769, 95% CI: 1.121–20.293) were predictors of bone erosions. PsAID-12 scores and ESR were associated with severe depression and anxiety-related symptoms (95% OR: 1.443–4.459 and 1.001:1.078), respectively. Patients with PsA often face diagnostic delays, with fibromyalgia, depression, and anxiety being common, resulting in poorer patient-reported outcomes.
Sarcoidosis is a systemic granulomatous inflammatory condition characterized by varied clinical manifestations, with a higher prevalence observed in individuals aged 25 to 40 and women over 50. Typical presentations involve symmetric involvement of hilar and mediastinal lymph nodes, followed by lung involvement. While initial stages are often asymptomatic, the disease can impact various organs. Cutaneous involvement, observed in up to a quarter of patients, includes lupus pernio, papules, plaques, erythema nodosum, and occasionally subcutaneous nodules. Subcutaneous sarcoidosis, once considered rare, is now increasingly recognized. We present a case of Darier-Roussy sarcoidosis in a middle-aged man, demonstrating multiple painless subcutaneous nodules confirmed through biopsy. Our findings suggest that Darier-Roussy sarcoidosis typically manifests early in the disease course, indicating non-severe systemic involvement. Additionally, our patient responded well to hydroxychloroquine treatment, suggesting a positive outcome.