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An Immunohistopathologic Study to Profile the Folate Receptor Beta Macrophage and Vascular Immune Microenvironment in Giant Cell Arteritis
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Published on: February 8, 2019

[Hemophagocytic syndrome complicating adult's seropositive rheumatoid arthritis]

A Niang1, S Diallo, M M Ka

  • 1Clinique médicale 1, CHU A.-Le-Dantec, Dakar, Sénégal. niangabdou@yahoo.com <niangabdou@yahoo.com>

La Revue De Medecine Interne
|October 27, 2004
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Macrophage activation syndrome (MAS) is a rare but severe complication of adult rheumatoid polyarthritis. This case highlights its potential presentation and successful treatment with corticosteroids.

Area of Science:

  • Rheumatology
  • Hematology
  • Pathology

Background:

  • Macrophage activation syndrome (MAS) is a life-threatening hyperinflammation.
  • It is a known complication of chronic rheumatic diseases, especially in juvenile idiopathic arthritis.
  • MAS is infrequently reported in adult rheumatoid polyarthritis.

Observation:

  • A case of MAS complicating seropositive rheumatoid polyarthritis after 20 years is presented.
  • The patient presented with pancytopenia, fever, renal failure, and hepatic dysfunction.
  • Bone marrow biopsy revealed extensive infiltration by macrophages and monocytes.

Findings:

  • The findings confirmed a diagnosis of macrophage activation syndrome.
  • The bone marrow specimen showed characteristic histopathological changes.
  • The patient had a long-standing history of seropositive rheumatoid polyarthritis.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the importance of considering MAS in adult rheumatoid polyarthritis patients with unexplained systemic inflammation.
  • Early recognition and prompt treatment, such as with corticosteroids, can lead to favorable outcomes.
  • Further research into the pathogenesis and management of MAS in adults is warranted.

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