Autoimmune polyendocrinopathy syndrome type 1: new conceptions on pathogenesis and extended clinical symptoms

Abstract

The objective was to present the caseof autoimmune polyendocrinopathy syndrome type 1 (APS1) and new clinical aspects and current knowledge of its pathogenesis.Materials and methods. This article includes clinical data, laboratory parameters, treatment and follow­updata of the patient with APS1. Also, a review of the latest data in world literature was made.Results and discussion. The described patient has two main criteria for APS1: hypoparathyroidism and chronic mucosal candidiasis, as well as some additional ones such as: autoimmune thyroiditis with hypothyroidism, type 1 diabetes, malabsorption syndrome. Periodic seizures and gait abnormality may be due to a chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy. The diagnosis of APS1 is to detect the genetic anomaly underlying the syndrome: mutations in the AIRE gene and identification of organspecific antibodies. International studies have shown that 100 % of patients with APS1have autoantibodies that interact with interferon omega, so tests for such autoantibodies can help to get quick diagnosis. The treatment consists of correction of endocrine insufficiency with hormone replacement therapy, and specific treatment of other diseases common to APS1.Conclusions. APS1 is extremely diverse in its symptoms and the progression of the disease causes the expanding of clinical spectrum of its components. Therefore this syndrome must be diagnosed in the early stages, taking into account high morbidity and mortality. The main purpose of treatment is to preserve the patient’s life and maintain its quality good. Awareness of this rare autoimmune polyendocrine disorder can help a doctor to recognize it and treat timely, preventing potential death­related illnesses.