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Updated: May 27, 2026
06:34
Identification of Rare Bacterial Pathogens by 16S rRNA Gene Sequencing and MALDI-TOF MS
Published on: July 11, 2016
The SAPHO syndrome--are microbes involved?
1Internal Medicine I and José-Carreras-Research Center, University of Saarland Medical School, Homburg/Saar D-66421, Germany. gunter.assmann@uniklinikum-saarland.de
Best Practice & Research. Clinical Rheumatology
|November 22, 2011
Summary
The synovitis, acne, pustulosis, hyperostosis and osteitis (SAPHO) syndrome is a rare inflammatory condition. This review evaluates current knowledge on SAPHO symptoms, diagnosis, and emerging treatments like bisphosphonates.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Dermatology
- Orthopedics
Background:
- SAPHO syndrome is a rare, chronic, relapsing inflammatory disorder affecting osteoarticular and skin manifestations.
- Diagnostic challenges arise from incomplete symptoms and mimicry of conditions like osteomyelitis.
- The etiology is unclear, possibly involving genetic, immunological, and infectious factors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review existing knowledge on the SAPHO syndrome.
- To provide comprehensive information on SAPHO symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment.
- To evaluate current and potential future therapeutic strategies.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing studies on SAPHO syndrome.
- Synthesis of information regarding clinical presentation, diagnostic criteria, and etiology.
- Analysis of reported treatment outcomes and emerging therapies.
Main Results:
- SAPHO syndrome presents diagnostic challenges due to variable manifestations.
- The role of Propionibacterium acnes in SAPHO pathogenesis remains under investigation.
- Antibiotic treatments show conflicting results, while bisphosphonates and TNF-α antagonists show promise.
Conclusions:
- Further research is needed to elucidate the exact etiology of SAPHO syndrome.
- Current treatment approaches are largely empiric, based on limited case studies.
- Bisphosphonates and TNF-α antagonists represent promising avenues for future SAPHO management.
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