Changes in proteinase 3 anti-neutrophil cytoplasm autoantibody levels in early systemic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (Wegener's) may reflect treatment rather than disease activity.

摘要: OBJECTIVES To investigate the nature of relationship between proteinase 3 anti-neutrophil cytoplasm autoantibody (PR3-ANCA) and relapse in patients with early systemic granulomatosis polyangiitis (Wegener's) (GPA). METHODS Clinical data from 16 relapsing 12 non-relapsing GPA a randomised clinical trial were correlated to monthly PR3-ANCA values over 18 months. Each sample was examined using 9 different enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) ensure reliability ANCA results. peaks identified by highest sum logarithmic transformation all samples after remission. RESULTS A peak coincided 14 evaluable patients. The increment before peak, however, similar assays. Increments remission higher 2/9 at entry 3/9 assays, respectively. However, large overlaps prevented distinction median time reach months scheduled termination treatment CONCLUSIONS predictive value for relapses determinations confirm extend previous reports. Although related increases, reduction or withdrawal immunosuppression without also increases may explain lack sequential determinations.