Immune System Diseases Commons^™

A Galleria Mellonella Study: Protective Effects Of Sulforaphane On Immune Function In Binge Alcohol Exposure, Robert Kento Darby, Braydon Black, Vincent Tran, Dallen James, Scott Quimby

Annual Research Symposium

Alcohol is associated with increased mortality and morbidity. Pulmonary infections with opportunistic pathogens can occur in healthy humans; however, hazardous alcohol exposure like binge alcohol intoxication (≥ 0.08% BAC) is a major risk factor. We’ve previously investigated the efficacy of Sulforaphane (SFN) prophylaxis in protecting human and murine alveolar macrophage function against opportunistic infections when exposed to binge alcohol conditions in vitro. However, an in vivo model investigating SFN and hazardous alcohol exposure in the context of infection is not well understood. The aim of this study is to 1) establish a G. mellonella larvae model by determining the LD50 …

Hybrid Versus Vaccine Immunity Of Mrna-1273 Among People Living With Hiv In East And Southern Africa: A Prospective Cohort Analysis From The Multicentre Covpn 3008 (Ubuntu) Study, Nigel Garrett, Asa Tapley, Aaron Hudson, Sufia Dadabhai, Bo Zhang, Nyaradzo M Mgodi, Jessica Andriesen, Azwidihwi Takalani, Leigh H Fisher, Jia Jin Kee, Craig A Magaret, Manuel Villaran, John Hural, Erica Andersen-Nissen, Guido Ferarri, Maurine D Miner, Bert Le Roux, Eduan Wilkinson, Richard Lessells, Tulio De Oliveira, Jackline Odhiambo, Parth Shah, Laura Polakowski, Margaret Yacovone, Taraz Samandari, Zvavahera Chirenje, Peter James Elyanu, Joseph Makhema, Ethel Kamuti, Harriet Nuwagaba-Biribonwoha, Sharlaa Badal-Faesen, William Brumskine, Soritha Coetzer, Rodney Dawson, Sinead Delany-Moretlwe, Andreas Henri Diacon, Samantha Fry, Katherine Margaret Gill, Zaheer Ahmed Ebrahim Hoosain, Mina C Hosseinipour, Mubiana Inambao, Craig Innes, Steve Innes, Dishiki Kalonji, Margaret Kasaro, Priya Kassim, Noel Kayange, William Kilembe, Fatima Laher, Moelo Malahleha, Vongane Louisa Maluleke, Grace Mboya, Kirsten Mcharry, Essack Mitha, Kathryn Mngadi, Pamela Mda, Tumelo Moloantoa, Cissy Kityo Mutuluuza, Nivashnee Naicker, Vimla Naicker, Anusha Nana, Annet Nanvubya, Maphoshane Nchabeleng, Walter Otieno, Elsje Louise Potgieter, Disebo Potloane, Zelda Punt, Jamil Said, Yashna Singh, Mohammed Siddique Tayob, Yacoob Vahed, Deo Ogema Wabwire, M Juliana Mcelrath, James G Kublin, Linda-Gail Bekker, Peter B Gilbert, Lawrence Corey, Glenda E Gray, Yunda Huang, Philip Kotze, Covpn 3008 Ubuntu Study Team

Faculty, Staff and Students Publications

BACKGROUND: With limited access to mRNA COVID-19 vaccines in lower income countries, and people living with HIV (PLWH) largely excluded from clinical trials, Part A of the multicentre CoVPN 3008 (Ubuntu) study aimed to assess the safety of mRNA-1273, the relative effectiveness of hybrid versus vaccine immunity, and SARS-CoV-2 viral persistence among PLWH in East and Southern Africa during the omicron outbreak.

METHODS: Previously unvaccinated adults with HIV and/or other comorbidities associated with severe COVID-19 received either one (hybrid immunity) or two (vaccine immunity) 100-mcg doses of ancestral strain mRNA-1273 in the first month, depending on baseline evidence of prior …

Sinusitis And Rhinitis Among Us Veterans Deployed To Southwest Asia And Afghanistan After September 11, 2001, Jennifer Maccarone, Carrie A Redlich, Andrew Timmons, Anna M Korpak, Nicholas L Smith, Karen S Nakayama, Coleen P Baird, Paul Ciminera, Farrah Kheradmand, Vincent S Fan, Jaime E Hart, Petros Koutrakis, Ware G Kuschner, Octavian C Ioachimescu, Michael Jerrett, Philippe R Montgrain, Susan P Proctor, Christine H Wendt, Cherry Wongtrakool, Emily S Wan, Paul D Blanc, Eric Garshick

Faculty, Staff and Students Publications

BACKGROUND: Post-9/11 veterans were exposed to environmental and occupational pollutants during deployment.

OBJECTIVE: Our aim was to determine associations between deployment-related exposures and sinusitis and rhinitis.

METHODS: Between April 2018 and March 2020, veterans with land-based deployment after 9/11 who were living within 25 miles of 6 Department of Veteran Affairs medical centers were randomly chosen by using a Defense Manpower Data Center roster. Participants completed interviewer-administered questionnaires, which included a 32-item deployment exposure battery and self-report of rhinitis and health professional-diagnosed sinusitis. Exposure categories included burn pit smoke, combustion engine exhaust/ground dust, other open combustion sources, toxicants, and military …

Use Of Immunoglobulin Replacement Therapy In Clinical Practice: A Review, Jibran Ahmed, Yeonjoo Choi, Taeyeong Ko, Joann Lim, Joud Hajjar

Faculty, Staff and Students Publications

Immunoglobulins (Igs) are produced by B lymphocytes and play a key role in humoral immunity. Igs are classified into five isotypes (IgG, IgA, IgM, IgE, and IgD). Their primary function is to recognize and bind to foreign antigens. When Igs bind to antigens, they facilitate phagocytosis and promote clearance mediated by other immune cells. It is an essential component in protecting the host from outside pathogens. Hypogammaglobulinemia predisposes an individual to severe and recurrent infections. Therefore, replacement therapy is recommended to maintain optimal Ig level. In addition, Igs can modulate immune responses by to neutralizing proteins such as endotoxins or …

Prevalence Of Autoimmune Diseases In Patients Treated With Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors: An Epidemiological Study Using A Global Network Of Health Care Organizations, Pushti Khandwala, Devashish Desai, Arthur Lau

Einstein Health Papers

OBJECTIVE: Evaluate prevalence of new onset autoimmune conditions (ACs) after commencement of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs).

METHODS: This retrospective observational study was done using TriNetX. Patients with neoplasm for which ICIs were approved were stratified into two groups based on ICI use. Multivariate Cox proportional hazard models and Kaplan Meier method were used to assess risk of developing ACs among the groups. Subgroup analysis was done to evaluate risk of ACs in patients receiving cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 inhibitor (CTLA4i) versus program cell death protein 1 inhibitor (PD1i) and program death ligand 1 inhibitor (PDL1i) inhibitors and combination treatment (CT) …

Atrial Fibrillation Recurrence Risk After Catheter Ablation In Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Systematic Review And Meta-Analysis, Pongprueth Rujirachun, Phuuwadith Wattanachayakul, Svita Taveeamornrat, Patompong Ungprasert, Nithi Tokavanich, Krit Jongnarangsin

Einstein Health Papers

BACKGROUND: The association between rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and the risk of developing atrial fibrillation (AF) is well-established. However, data on the impact of RA on AF recurrence postcatheter ablation (CA) remain unclear. This current study aimed to assess the impact of RA on AF recurrence after catheter-based pulmonary vein isolation.

METHODS: Potentially eligible studies were identified from Medline and EMBASE databases from inception to December 20, 2023. Eligible study must consist of two cohorts of patients with and without RA who underwent catheter ablation for AF. Pooled risk ratio (RR) and 95% CI were calculated using Dersimonian and Laird's random-effect, …

A Case Of Injury-Induced Pyoderma Gangrenosum Requiring Skin Graft, Yukiko Brewer, Nameer Ascandar, Tesnim Hamdan, Iryna Witt, Sana Khan, Robert Cropper

West Florida Division GME Research Day 2025

No abstract provided.

Covid-19 Induced Mda5-Associated Necrotizing Myositis, Sarah Steadman, Amit Sikder, Harsh R. Desai, Bradley Collins, Tiffany Baker, Julie Worthington

South Atlantic Division GME Research Day 2025

No abstract provided.

Co-Occurrence Of Autoimmune Hepatitis And Pheochromocytoma: A Complex Diagnostic And Treatment Challenge, Himani Patel, Gabrielle Aiello, Taylor Frazier, Sage Havrilla, Payton Williams, Meghan Rosenquist

South Atlantic Division GME Research Day 2025

No abstract provided.

Reproductive Autonomy In Immunological Intervention: Ethical Boundaries In Maternal-Fetal Immune Therapy, Marium Z. Rizvi

Journal of Health Ethics

Recent advances in immunology have broken barriers in reproductive medicine through immune-modulating therapies that support fertility and pregnancy. Treatments such as intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) and intralipid infusions are increasingly offered to patients with Recurrent Implantation Failure (RIF) or Recurrent Pregnancy Loss (RPL), conditions that result in miscarriages and failed IVF treatments (Pillarysetti et al., 2023). Maternal-fetal immunology reveals a delicate interplay between immune tolerance and defense: the maternal system must accept a genetically foreign fetus while preserving immunological protection. Disruptions in this balance are implicated in implantation disorders and pregnancy failure. As a result, immune-based therapies have emerged as promising …

Warm Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia Camouflaged As Persistent Anemia Post-Embolization For Abnormal Uterine Bleeding: A Case Report, Nischal Pokhrel, Sathish Karmegam

North Texas Research Forum 2025

This case report presents a 42-year-old female with heavy menstrual bleeding and syncope, initially diagnosed with AUB due to fibroids. The patient's hemoglobin (Hb) dropped from 11.8 g/dl to 7.3 g/dl within three days, despite multiple PRBC transfusions. Uterine artery embolization (UAE) was performed, but Hb levels continued to decline, prompting further investigation. Additional testing revealed normal iron studies, vitamin B12, and folic acid levels. The peripheral blood smear showed mild anisocytosis, and the ANA screen was negative. However, elevated lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) at 571 U/L, a positive DAT for IgG, and a reticulocyte count of 6.37 were observed. These …

Sle And Aps Synergy: Aortic Dissection, Neil Maithel, Ali Asghar, Rabia Mahfooz, Ibrahim Musa, Hasnan Ijaz, Thomas Alexander

Gulf Coast Division GME Research Day 2025

No abstract provided.

Hydralazine Induced Anca Vasculitis, Justin Huang, Yasasvi Sabbineni, Sumanth Reddy, Hani Khair

North Texas Research Forum 2025

Hydralazine is a vasodilator commonly used for hypertension. Hydrazine is commonly used in patients who can not tolerate ACEs and ARBs, resistant hypertension, and during pregnancy. Hydralazine has also been implicated in ANCA-associated vasculitis and drug-induced lupus erythematosus. Vasculitis is the presence of inflammatory leukocytes in vessel walls, inflammation can cause loss of vessel integrity which can lead to bleeding and downstream tissue ischemia and necrosis. Antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (AΝCΑ)-associated vаsсulitiѕ (ΑΑV) is a necrotizing vаsсսlitis that does not substantially involve the deposition of immune complexes. AΑV predominantly affects small vessels and is associated with ANСΑ specific for myeloperoxidase (MPO-ΑNCΑ) …

Atypical Presentation Of Cd4+ Small/Medium T-Cell Lymphoproliferative Disorder, Rafael Do Valle, Reem Ayoub, Marshall Hall, Henry Lim, Christian Scheufele, Garrett Furth, Michael Carletti, Stepehen E. Weis

North Texas Research Forum 2025

Introduction: Primary cutaneous CD4+ small/medium T-cell lymphoproliferative disorder (PCSM-LPD) is a rare cutaneous disorder that until 2016, was classified as a primary cutaneous lymphoma. PCSM-LPD histopathologically consists of a localized proliferation of small to medium-sized T lymphocytes. Clinically there is minimal to no systemic involvement. It typically presents as an asymptomatic, solitary red-purple nodule, papule, or plaque on the face. PCSM-LPD has an indolent course and an excellent prognosis. It is important to recognize PCSM-LPD as a distinct entity from primary cutaneous lymphoma to avoid treatments with side effects. Case Presentation: A 68-year-old female with a history of insulin-dependent type …

Distinguishing Dress From Morbilliform Drug Reactions: A Challenge In An Underserved Community Hospital, Ivan Mogollon, Francisco Arias, Catherine Matos, Luis Salcedo, Michelle Lopez

Gulf Coast Division GME Research Day 2025

No abstract provided.

A Rare Case Of Pulmonary Amyloidosis Causing Cystic Lung Disease In Sjogren's Syndrome, Suhas Kandimalla, Jordan Torres, Ramesh Kesavan, Siva T. Sarva

Gulf Coast Division GME Research Day 2025

No abstract provided.

Prevelence Odds Of Melanoma In Patients With Inflammatory Bowel Disease: An Observational Cross-Sectional Study, Nilay Bhatt, Kumail Rizvi

Gulf Coast Division GME Research Day 2025

No abstract provided.

Fatal Streptococcal Pneumonia Bacteremia Complicated By Purpura Fulminans In An Asplenic Patient, Farigol Hakem Zadeh, Nikita Shah, Vidya S. Kollu

North Florida Division GME Research Day 2025

No abstract provided.

A Novel Triad: Ulcerative Colitis, Granulomatosis With Polyangiitis, And Antiphospholipid Syndrome In A Single Patient, Neil Maithel, Rabia Mahfooz, Sean Alloju

Gulf Coast Division GME Research Day 2025

No abstract provided.

The Face-Off Between Two Mimics: Lupus And Tuberculosis, Fnu Swatisikta, Nang Kham, Ali Chaudhry

East Florida Division GME Research Day 2025

INTRODUCTION Both lupus and Mycobacterium tuberculosis can affect any organ and can present with non-specific multi-organ involvement. In a patient with lupus, it may be difficult to distinguish between a lupus flare and a mycobacterial infection.

CASE A 28-year-old female with a history of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), (anti-Smith and ds-DNA positive), presented with knee swelling, chest and abdominal pain. She had elevated inflammatory markers, hyperkalemia with AKI. CT chest showed bilateral lung micronodules and patchy opacity. The patient had been on long-term steroids, mycophenolate, and hydroxychloroquine. Belimumab and voclosporin were initiated after a recent kidney biopsy revealed class 4 …

Unmasking Multicentric Reticulonodular Histiocytoma: A Rare Impostor Of Rheumatoid Arthritis, Rabia S. Mahfooz, Neil Maithel, Annmary Behanan, Naser Elkhalili

Gulf Coast Division GME Research Day 2025

No abstract provided.

A Swelling Mystery: Hereditary Angioedema In Pregnancy, Karen Valadez-Cuen, Andrea Francis, Alison Rossduetscher, Micheline Tantchou

Central & West Texas and San Antonio GME Research Day 2025

No abstract provided.

Not So Sle-Ghtly Bloody, A Nguyen, Napat Rangsipat, Shai Ring, Suhas Tatapudi, Cassie Robertson, Achi Chary, Damon Cao

Gulf Coast Division GME Research Day 2025

No abstract provided.

Bleeding Lungs: A Case Of Hydralazine Induced Systemic Lupus Erythematosus With Diffuse Alveolar Hemorrhage, Damara Miller, Munanchu Poudel, Neil Maithel, Deekshita Valiveti, Arjun Kamath, Rahul Dadhwal, Ali Mohammed, Rene Franco Jr., Abhay Vakil, Zuhair Ali

Gulf Coast Division GME Research Day 2025

No abstract provided.

Immune Related Cardiac Cardiac Tamponade Triggered By Pd-L1 Blockade In Breast Cancer: A Case Report, Luis Salcedo, Ivan Mogollon, Francisco Arias, Jose Donis, Michelle Lopez

Gulf Coast Division GME Research Day 2025

No abstract provided.

A Case Of Dress Syndrome Following Recurrent Hardware-Related Knee Infection: Diagnosis, Management, And Recovery, Cooper Alden Josephs, Himani Patel, James Everhart

South Atlantic Division GME Research Day 2025

No abstract provided.

Granulomatosis With Polyangitis Presenting As Cavernous Sinus Thrombosis And Oculomotor Nerve Palsy: A Case Report, Kempes Chan, Nanda Gopalan

Central & West Texas and San Antonio GME Research Day 2025

No abstract provided.

An Atypical Presentation Of Anti-Caspr2 Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis, Aaron De La Cruz, Sarita Thanedar, Shao-Ting Min, Prabhdeep Singh, Hitesh Gidwani

Central & West Texas and San Antonio GME Research Day 2025

No abstract provided.

A Rare Case Of Pseudo-Pseudo Meigs Syndrome With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, Rabia Mahfooz, Grant Patterson, Neil Maithel, Daniel Kim

Gulf Coast Division GME Research Day 2025

No abstract provided.

Two Is Not Always Better Than One: An Intersting Case Of Inflammatory Myositis With Dual Myositis Specific Antibodies, Neil Maithel, Rabia Mahfooz, Ali Asghar, Paul S. Bongat

Gulf Coast Division GME Research Day 2025

No abstract provided.