Neonatal treatment of CINCA syndrome

Yan Paccaud1, Gerald Berthet2, Annette Von Scheven-Gête3

  • 1Clinic of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.

Insights

Early anti-interleukin-1 treatment for Chronic Infantile Neurological Cutaneous Articular (CINCA) syndrome in neonates is safe and effective. This intervention rapidly controls inflammation and prevents long-term damage in infants with severe CINCA syndrome.

Area of Science:

  • Neonatology
  • Immunology
  • Genetics

Background:

  • Chronic Infantile Neurological Cutaneous Articular (CINCA) syndrome, also known as Neonatal Onset Multisystem Inflammatory Disease (NOMID), is a severe autoinflammatory disorder.
  • It presents in infancy, primarily affecting the central nervous system, joints, and skin, potentially causing irreversible damage.
  • Limited data exists on therapeutic interventions in neonates with CINCA syndrome.

Observation:

  • This report details two preterm infants with severe CINCA syndrome who received early neonatal treatment with anakinra, an anti-interleukin-1 agent.
  • The treatment was initiated due to severe clinical manifestations.
  • Particular neonatal signs included polyhydramnios and endocardial overgrowth.

Findings:

  • Both infants showed a rapid and sustained reduction in clinical symptoms and systemic inflammation.
  • Anakinra treatment was well-tolerated in both cases.
  • Genetic confirmation revealed NLRP3/CIAS1 gene mutations, characteristic of cryopyrin-associated periodic syndromes.

Implications:

  • Early initiation of interleukin-1 targeted therapy, such as anakinra, is strongly recommended for neonates with severe CINCA syndrome.
  • This treatment approach is well-tolerated and can effectively control inflammation.
  • Prompt intervention in the neonatal period may prevent lifelong disability associated with CINCA syndrome.
Abstract