Physicians’ perceptions about antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis: an online survey report in the time of the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

Antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitides (AAV) are characterized by necrotizing inflammation of small and medium-size vessels that often manifest with devastating multi-organ effects. They present with a myriad of systemic features and require potent immunosuppression. Since they are uncommonly encountered in clinical practice, it is necessary to understand physicians’ knowledge and perceptions about this group of diseases. An online questionnaire was designed featuring 28 questions based on relevant global practice guidelines, recommendations, and previous online surveys on AAV. The questionnaire was validated by a core group of specialists with an interest in AAV. It was shared via social networking sites and entries were restricted to physicians. Only completed entries were analyzed with descriptive statistics. A total of 113 respondents from 21 different countries responded of whom the commonest were rheumatologists, internists, and general practitioners. Forty-five (40%) ran clinics dedicated to AAV patients as a part of their practice. They commented on organs involved in AAV; vasculitis secondary to infections, drugs or other rheumatic diseases; various tests useful for AAV diagnosis; and drug choices for induction and maintenance. They mentioned their experience regarding COVID-19 in AAV patients as well as vasculitic manifestations of COVID-19. Various methods to mitigate cardiovascular risks in AAV were mentioned. Finally, the respondents indicated how medical education needed to be strengthened to increase awareness and knowledge regarding AAV. This survey helped to inform about various perceptions regarding AAV across countries, including current practices and recent evolution of management. It also provided information on treatment of the COVID-19 in AAV patients. This survey showed that there is still a lack in understanding the prevalent definitions and there is gap between guidelines and current practice. Key Points • Perception about ANCA-associated vasculitis differ across countries. • The number of cases encountered across 21 different countries are limited implying a need for multi-national cooperation to study this disease further. • The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the approach towards ANCA-associated vasculitis by the various clinicians. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10067-022-06452-0.

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on patients with systemic vasculitis: a single-centre retrospective study

“…As shown by the results of an international survey that was developed to study the knowledge and perceptions of medical professionals about the diagnosis and treatment of ANCA-associated vasculitis, the perception of systemic vasculitis differs in different countries. This study also revealed the need to update knowledge and awareness of small vessel vasculitis among the entire medical community since its inception [ 26 ]. To increase the level of knowledge about systemic vasculitis, which doctors of outpatient services and hospitals of various profiles may encounter in practice, it is necessary to develop educational programs and resources for continuing professional education for doctors with an emphasis on rare autoimmune pathologies, and in particular systemic vasculitis.…”

Eosinophilic Granulomatosis With Polyangiitis Following COVID-19 Vaccination: A Case Report

“…During the COVID-19 pandemic, some forms of vasculitis were observed during or after COVID-19 infection and recovery, and several cases of vaccine-related anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis (AAV) were reported following vaccination or a booster dose. 3 4 5 Recently, it has been reported that eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA) was diagnosed after the second dose of COVID-19 vaccination, and early diagnosis on patients with EGPA had a recurrence of severe polyneuropathy after vaccination. 6 7 Here, we report the first case of de novo EGPA after COVID-19 vaccination in Korea.…”