Jpn. J. Infect. Dis., 57, S16-S17, 2004
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The Clinical Features and Pathology of Vasculitis
Associated with Anti-Myeloperoxidase Autoantibodies
David Jayne*
Vasculitis and Lupus Clinic, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge,
UK
*Corresponding author: dj106@cam.ac.uk
SUMMARY: Autoantibodies to myeloperoxidase (MPO) are associated
with the autoimmune disease, systemic vasculitis, in humans. This
results in severe inflammation and microscopic necrosis of multiple
organs, especially the kidneys, leading to renal failure and death.
The discovery of MPO autoantibodies has permitted the development
of new diagnostic tests allowing earlier diagnosis and more effective
therapy. Furthermore these antibodies are directly implicated
in tissue injury by binding to MPO on the neutrophil cell membrane
and stimulating neutrophil activation and degranulation. The causes
for the breakdown in tolerance to MPO are not known although rare
cases are drug-induced and remit on drug withdrawal. An understanding
of the biology of MPO and its involvement in the pathogenesis
of vasculitis is of importance in understanding the pathogenesis
of vasculitis and the development of newer therapies.