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Chronic Salmonella Infection Induced Intestinal Fibrosis
Published on: September 22, 2019
Retroperitoneal fibroses: aetiopathogenesis and taxonomic assessment
1University of Parma, Parma, Italy.
Abstract:
Retroperitoneal fibrosis (RPF) is a chronic retroperitoneal inflammatory process that can entrap the retroperitoneal structures, mainly the ureters and the great vessels. Aetiology, clinical features and diagnostic appearance in several cases are protean. A true idiopathic form is present in any cases of RPF in which no potential aetiologic condition may be identified. The pathogenesis of the idiopathic RPF appears today to be related to IgG4 autoimmune mechanisms ("hyper-IgG4 disease"). Otherwise, RPF in the presence of aortic atheromatous inflammation (atheromatous aortitis), has been included, more than twenty years ago, among the secondary forms, since this condition appears to be elicited by antigen-acting oxidized-LDL and/or ceroid, that are present within the atheromatous plaque. Aetiology of other secondary RPFs refers to medications (drug-induced), infections, traumas, malignancies. Recent advances in imaging techniques (TC, RM, 18F-FDG/PET or hybrid TC/PET), together with laboratory findings (CRP, ESR, IgG, IgG4, autoantibodies, etc), allow to identify the active phases of the inflammatory process. The review focuses on the pathogenetic features of RPFs and some issues concerning their taxonomic assessment.
Insights
Retroperitoneal fibrosis (RPF) is a chronic inflammation that can entrap structures like ureters. Emerging evidence links idiopathic RPF to IgG4 autoimmune mechanisms, while secondary forms have diverse causes.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Rheumatology
- Pathology
Background:
- Retroperitoneal fibrosis (RPF) is a chronic inflammatory condition affecting retroperitoneal structures.
- Its etiology is diverse, including idiopathic, IgG4-related, and secondary causes like infections, drugs, and malignancies.
- Understanding RPF's pathogenesis and classification is crucial for diagnosis and management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the pathogenetic features of retroperitoneal fibrosis.
- To discuss the taxonomic assessment of different RPF subtypes.
- To highlight recent advances in diagnostic imaging and laboratory findings.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on pathogenetic mechanisms and classification of RPF.
- Analysis of diagnostic imaging techniques (CT, MRI, PET/CT).
- Evaluation of laboratory markers (CRP, ESR, IgG, IgG4, autoantibodies).
Main Results:
- Idiopathic RPF is increasingly linked to IgG4-related mechanisms.
- Secondary RPF encompasses causes such as atheromatous aortitis, drug-induced reactions, infections, and malignancies.
- Advanced imaging and laboratory tests aid in identifying active inflammatory phases.
Conclusions:
- RPF pathogenesis is complex, involving autoimmune and inflammatory pathways.
- Accurate classification of RPF subtypes is essential for targeted treatment.
- Multimodal diagnostic approaches improve the identification and characterization of RPF.
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