Stimulator of interferon genes-associated vasculopathy with onset in infancy: first case report in China

Abstract

Objective: To summarize the clinical characteristics and treatment efficacy of the first reported case of a Chinese boy with stimulator of interferon genes (STING) associated vasculopathy with onset in infancy (SAVI). Methods: Sanger sequencing of the gene TMEM173 was performed based on systemic evaluation and clinical analysis of a highly suspected SAVI child admitted to Peking Union Medical College Hospital. A literature search (search terms included 'STING''SAVI''autoinflammatory diseases' and 'interferonopathy') was conducted using Chinese literature database, EMBASE and PubMed to include recently published SAVI studies (searched from January 2010 to December 2017). Results: A 14-year-old boy who had a history of chronic dry cough along with decreased activity tolerance after birth presented with growth retardation, chilblain lesions on the ear, telangiectasia of multiple skin areas and long clubbed fingers. His C-reactive protein was 21 mg/L, erythrocyte sedimentation rate was 78 mm/1h, and IgG was 22.16 g/L. The high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) revealed interstitial lung diseases and echocardiography showed pulmonary artery hypertension, with a level of 61 mmHg (1 mmHg=0.133 kPa). Genetic mutation of TMEM173 (c.463G>A, p.V155M) was confirmed by Sanger sequencing. His activity tolerance increased to some extent after treatment with tofacitinib at a dose of 5 mg twice a day. Our review yielded 8 publications (8 English and 0 Chinese) . To date 20 cases have been reported worldwide, who mostly presented with skin and lung involvement as well as growth retardation. Conclusions: SAVI has been included within the spectrum of interferonopathy, which is a kind of autoinflammatory diseases as well. Typical clinical features include chilblain skin lesions, interstitial lung disease, growth retardation, elevated IgG levels, and increased inflammation markers. Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors may offer benefit for SAVI patients.