F DELLA CASA

Department of Cardiovascular Intensive Care, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, BEL.

36 publications 1946 – 2025 ORCID

What does F DELLA CASA research?

F Della Casa studies the effects of mRNA vaccines, particularly the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine, in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), which is an autoimmune disease that can cause inflammation and tissue damage throughout the body. The key question in their research is whether patients with lupus can safely receive the vaccine and still mount a protective immune response, similar to those without the disease. This research not only validates vaccine safety in this patient group but also helps ensure that individuals with SLE can be protected against COVID-19.

Key findings

  • In their study, 41 lupus patients developed strong protective antibodies after receiving the Pfizer vaccine, comparable to a control group of 29 individuals with a different rare condition.
  • Both groups exhibited similar levels of antibody response after both the first and second doses of the vaccine.
  • The study found no evidence of lupus flare-ups or worsening of the disease due to vaccination.

Frequently asked questions

Does Dr. Della Casa study lupus?
Yes, Dr. Della Casa specifically studies the safety and efficacy of vaccines in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus.
What treatments has Dr. Della Casa researched?
Dr. Della Casa has researched the safety and immune response to the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine in patients with lupus.
Is Dr. Della Casa's work relevant to COVID-19 vaccines?
Yes, their research evaluates how effective and safe COVID-19 vaccines are for individuals with autoimmune diseases.

Publications in plain English

IL-1 targeting agents in Schnitzler syndrome: a multicentre, real-world study from the international AIDA Network Schnitzler Registry.

2025

Clinical and experimental rheumatology

Calabrese L, Cartocci A, Vitale A, Martín-Nares E, D'Onghia M +32 more

Plain English
This study looked at how well two drugs that block a protein called IL-1 work for patients with Schnitzler syndrome, a rare disease. The researchers found that patients treated with anakinra showed a complete or partial improvement 73% of the time, while those on canakinumab improved about 67% of the time. Most patients continued their treatment for up to five years, with about 85% staying on anakinra after one year, but some stopped because the treatment stopped working for them. Who this helps: This benefits patients with Schnitzler syndrome, helping them understand the effectiveness of their treatment options.

PubMed

Acute Pulmonary Embolism Treated by Surgery and Complicated With a Pulmonary Artery Pseudoaneurysm: A Case Report.

2025

Cureus

Dumont A, Aphram G, Della Casa FC, Beauloye C, Orbegozo D

Plain English
The study focused on a 48-year-old woman who experienced a severe case of pulmonary embolism (a blockage in the lungs) that required surgery because standard treatments were not an option. The surgery went well, but she developed a complication with a blood vessel in her lung, which was successfully treated without further issues, leading to her full recovery within three months. This matters because it shows that surgical options like pulmonary thrombectomy can be effective and have acceptable outcomes, offering hope for patients when typical treatments fail. Who this helps: This benefits patients with severe pulmonary embolism who cannot use standard therapies.

PubMed

Evaluation of Myocarditis in Patients With Still Disease: Clinical Findings From the Multicenter International AIDA Network Still Disease Registry.

2025

The Journal of rheumatology

Ruscitti P, Di Cola I, Vitale A, Caggiano V, Palumbo P +66 more

Plain English
This study looked at heart problems, especially myocarditis, in patients with Still disease. Researchers examined 73 patients and found that 90% had pericarditis (inflammation of the outer heart layer), while 26% had myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle). Patients with myocarditis had a higher chance of severe symptoms and death. Identifying skin rashes and high systemic scores can help doctors predict which patients are at greater risk for myocarditis. Who this helps: This benefits patients with Still disease and their doctors by improving monitoring and management strategies.

PubMed

Eosinophil-Driven vs. Eosinophil-Associated Severe Asthma: Practical Implications for Target Treatment.

2025

International journal of molecular sciences

D'Aiuto V, Mormile I, Granata F, Romano A, Della Casa F +3 more

Plain English
This research studied severe asthma, which affects about 10% of people with asthma, and focused on the role of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell that can cause inflammation. The findings highlight the importance of using specific tests, like measuring eosinophil levels and other biomarkers, to categorize asthma patients for better-targeted treatments. By doing this, doctors can choose the most effective therapies, potentially leading to fewer asthma attacks and less reliance on steroids. Who this helps: This benefits asthma patients who need more effective treatment options.

PubMed

Predictors of proteinuria, amyloidosis and kidney failure in familial Mediterranean fever: data from the International AIDA Network Registry.

2025

Rheumatology (Oxford, England)

Vitale A, Caggiano V, Sbalchiero J, Tufan A, Batu ED +65 more

Plain English
This study looked at risk factors for kidney problems in people with Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF), a genetic disease. It analyzed data from 598 FMF patients and found that 80 had proteinuria (excess protein in urine), 61 had amyloidosis (a condition where proteins build up in organs), and 25 experienced kidney failure. Key risks for these conditions included a higher number of attacks per year, older age at diagnosis, and certain genetic mutations. Understanding these risks helps in better managing the health of FMF patients to prevent serious complications. Who this helps: Patients with Familial Mediterranean Fever and their doctors.

PubMed

Pulmonary Involvement in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Potentially Overlooked Condition.

2025

Biomedicines

Mormile I, Nazzaro G, Filippelli M, Della Casa F, Mormile M +2 more

Plain English
This research paper looked at how systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), an autoimmune disease, can affect the lungs, which is often not recognized. The study found that lung problems are common in SLE patients and can worsen their overall health, increasing the risk of severe complications. By identifying and treating these lung issues early, doctors can help prevent permanent damage and improve patients' quality of life. Who this helps: This helps patients with systemic lupus erythematosus and their doctors by emphasizing the importance of monitoring lung health.

PubMed

The LUNET Project: Developing the Italian Systemic Erythematous Lupus Network.

2025

Journal of clinical medicine

Mormile I, Brussino L, Canonica GW, Cortini F, Costantino MT +15 more

Plain English
The LUNET Project is creating a national registry for patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), a complicated autoimmune disease that can affect various body parts. This registry will collect real-world data on patient experiences and treatment outcomes to improve understanding and management of SLE. It aims to provide long-term insights that can help tailor treatments to individual needs and inform healthcare strategies. Who this helps: Patients with systemic lupus erythematosus and their healthcare providers.

PubMed

Unusual extra-cardiac inter-atrial communication: clinical insights from an anomalous vessel.

2024

European heart journal. Cardiovascular Imaging

Della Casa FC, Gerber BL, Pasquet A, Ghaye B, Scavée C

PubMed

Eosinophilic Patterns in Patients with Seasonal Allergy Affected by Bronchial Asthma and Rhinitis/Rhinosinusitis: Efficacy of Benralizumab in Patients with the Persistent Pattern.

2024

Journal of clinical medicine

D'Aiuto V, Mormile I, Granata F, Romano A, Della Casa F +6 more

Plain English
This study looked at how certain blood cells called eosinophils behave in patients with seasonal allergies who also have bronchial asthma and related conditions. Researchers found that most patients had mild allergy responses tied to allergen exposure, but a group with a "persistent" pattern of eosinophils experienced severe allergies that weren't linked to pollen. Patients with this severe condition improved significantly when treated with benralizumab, an allergy medication. Who this helps: This helps patients with severe allergies, particularly those with bronchial asthma and chronic sinus issues.

PubMed

Risk for cancer development in familial Mediterranean fever and associated predisposing factors: an ambidirectional cohort study from the international AIDA Network registries.

2024

Frontiers in immunology

Vitale A, Caggiano V, Tufan A, Ragab G, Batu ED +71 more

Plain English
This study looked at the risk of cancer in people with Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF), a condition that causes severe inflammation. Researchers found that FMF patients had a 74% lower risk of developing cancer compared to those with fibromyalgia (risk ratio 0.26). They also discovered that cancer risk increases with the age of disease onset, diagnosis, and frequency of disease attacks, but overall, FMF patients have a lower cancer risk compared to those with other inflammatory conditions. Who this helps: This research benefits FMF patients and their healthcare providers by providing insights into their cancer risk.

PubMed

Worldwide Heterogeneity of Food Allergy: Focus on Peach Allergy in Southern Italy.

2024

Journal of clinical medicine

D'Aiuto V, Mormile I, Granata F, Napolitano F, Lamagna L +3 more

Plain English
This study looked at food allergies, particularly focusing on peach allergies in Southern Italy. Researchers found that food allergies are increasingly common and show significant differences around the world, with serious symptoms linked to allergens like peach proteins. Understanding these differences is crucial for effective treatment and management of food allergies based on where patients live. Who this helps: This information benefits patients with food allergies and their doctors in managing their conditions effectively.

PubMed

The Multifaceted Complexity of Tumor Necrosis Factor Receptor-Associated Periodic Syndrome (TRAPS): A Case Report Highlighting Atypical Gastrointestinal Manifestations.

2024

Diagnostics (Basel, Switzerland)

Mancini M, Di Nardo G, Casciani E, Feudi ML, Bargiacchi L +4 more

Plain English
This study focused on a 29-year-old woman with Tumor Necrosis Factor Receptor-Associated Periodic Syndrome (TRAPS), a rare inflammatory disorder caused by a genetic mutation. She suffered from recurring fevers, abdominal pain, and joint issues, and genetic testing confirmed TRAPS along with other significant mutations. The research highlighted that she experienced severe gastrointestinal complications, including intestinal blockage and amyloidosis, requiring surgery, and showed that treatments like anakinra and canakinumab led to her improvement. Who this helps: This helps patients with TRAPS and their doctors by improving understanding and treatment of gastrointestinal issues associated with the syndrome.

PubMed

The Benefits of Water from Nitrodi's Spring: The In Vitro Studies Leading the Potential Clinical Applications.

2023

International journal of molecular sciences

Mormile I, Tuccillo F, Della Casa F, D'Aiuto V, Montuori N +4 more

Plain English
This research looked at the benefits of water from Nitrodi's Spring, a famous spa known for its healing properties. Studies show that Nitrodi's water helps with wound healing and reduces inflammation by promoting cell growth and migration, while also providing protection against oxidative stress. Specifically, it boosts cell viability and has shown anti-inflammatory effects, which are crucial for treating conditions like allergic and autoimmune diseases, as well as age-related skin issues. Who this helps: This helps patients with inflammatory and autoimmune conditions, as well as those dealing with skin aging.

PubMed

Adult-onset macrophage activation syndrome treated by interleukin-1 inhibition.

2023

Rheumatology advances in practice

Della Casa F, Petraroli A, Mormile I, Lagnese G, Di Salvatore A +2 more

PubMed

The role of chest CT in deciphering interstitial lung involvement: systemic sclerosis versus COVID-19.

2022

Rheumatology (Oxford, England)

Orlandi M, Landini N, Sambataro G, Nardi C, Tofani L +40 more

Plain English
This study looked at how chest CT scans can help tell the difference between lung problems caused by systemic sclerosis (SSc) and those caused by COVID-19. Researchers analyzed data from 99 patients, finding that certain CT features like fibrosis in specific areas are linked to SSc-ILD, while signs of consolidation in the lower lobes are more common in COVID-19 cases. This is important because using these CT features can improve accuracy in diagnosing these two conditions and tailor treatments more effectively. Who this helps: Patients suffering from interstitial lung disease related to systemic sclerosis or COVID-19.

PubMed

Development and Implementation of the AIDA International Registry for Patients with Non-Infectious Scleritis.

2022

Ophthalmology and therapy

Della Casa F, Vitale A, Pereira RM, Guerriero S, Ragab G +38 more

Plain English
This study created an international registry called the AIDA International Registry to gather information on patients with non-infectious scleritis, a rare eye condition caused by the immune system. The registry has already involved 99 medical centers from 20 countries and includes data from 259 users who track important details about patients' demographics, symptoms, and treatments. This effort is crucial because it will provide valuable real-world evidence that can improve how doctors manage this condition, which currently lacks comprehensive research. Who this helps: This helps patients with non-infectious scleritis and their doctors.

PubMed

Development and Implementation of the AIDA International Registry for Patients With Still's Disease.

2022

Frontiers in medicine

Vitale A, Della Casa F, Lopalco G, Pereira RM, Ruscitti P +55 more

Plain English
This research paper talks about creating a global database called the AIDA International Registry for patients with Still's disease, which affects both children and adults. The project involved 110 medical centers from 23 countries, collecting data from 290 users about patient details, symptoms, treatments, and more in order to understand how to better manage the disease. The collected information will help improve treatment methods and support research that could lead to better outcomes for patients. Who this helps: This helps patients with Still's disease and their healthcare providers.

PubMed

Predictive Response to Immunotherapy Score: A Useful Tool for Identifying Eligible Patients for Allergen Immunotherapy.

2022

Biomedicines

Mormile I, Granata F, Detoraki A, Pacella D, Della Casa F +4 more

Plain English
This study focused on a new scoring system called Predictive Response to Immunotherapy Score (PRIS) to help identify patients who are likely to benefit from allergen immunotherapy (AIT). Researchers evaluated 110 patients with allergic rhinitis (some with asthma) and found that those who received sublingual immunotherapy showed significant improvement in their symptoms after 12 and 24 months. Specifically, PRIS was effective in predicting symptom improvement in all patients, whether they had just rhinitis or also asthma. Who this helps: This helps patients suffering from allergies and asthma, along with their doctors in making treatment decisions.

PubMed

Development and Implementation of the AIDA International Registry for Patients With Undifferentiated Systemic AutoInflammatory Diseases.

2022

Frontiers in medicine

Della Casa F, Vitale A, Lopalco G, Ruscitti P, Ciccia F +49 more

Plain English
This study introduced the AIDA International Registry, a database designed to collect comprehensive information about patients with Undifferentiated Systemic AutoInflammatory Diseases (USAIDs). So far, 110 medical centers from 23 countries are participating, with nearly 300 users involved in gathering data on patient demographics, symptoms, treatments, and more, through a system that aims to ensure high-quality information. This registry matters because it helps researchers and doctors better understand these rare diseases by connecting them globally and standardizing the data collected. Who this helps: Patients with USAIDs and their healthcare providers.

PubMed

How to track and register adverse events and incidents related to gastrointestinal endoscopy.

2022

Acta gastro-enterologica Belgica

Della Casa FC, Monino L, Deprez PH, Steyaert A, Pendeville P +2 more

Plain English
This study looked at how to track problems that can occur after gastrointestinal endoscopy procedures over a 3-month period. Out of 2,668 procedures, 1.95% resulted in adverse events (AE), but only about 52% of these were reported by doctors; the rest were found in patient records. This highlights the need for better ways to reliably track these events, which is important for improving patient safety and the quality of endoscopy care. Who this helps: This helps patients and doctors by improving the safety of gastrointestinal procedures.

PubMed

Development and implementation of the AIDA International Registry for patients with Behçet's disease.

2022

Internal and emergency medicine

Vitale A, Della Casa F, Ragab G, Almaghlouth IA, Lopalco G +87 more

Plain English
Researchers created the AIDA International Registry to gather detailed information on patients with Behçet's disease, a rare inflammatory condition. Over the span of a year, 110 healthcare centers from 23 countries collected data from nearly 6,000 different information points about patient demographics, symptoms, treatments, and other factors. This registry is important because it will allow for better understanding and treatment of Behçet's disease by sharing data for international research efforts, ultimately improving care for patients. Who this helps: This benefits patients with Behçet's disease and their healthcare providers.

PubMed

Development and Implementation of the AIDA International Registry for Patients With VEXAS Syndrome.

2022

Frontiers in medicine

Vitale A, Caggiano V, Della Casa F, Hernández-Rodríguez J, Frassi M +78 more

Plain English
This study introduces a new international registry for patients with VEXAS syndrome, an inflammatory condition, to gather and share real-world information about the disease. So far, 324 researchers from 113 medical centers across 23 countries are participating, collecting extensive data on nearly 5,000 aspects of the disease, including symptoms, treatments, and patient demographics. This registry aims to improve understanding and treatment options for VEXAS syndrome, ultimately helping healthcare professionals provide better care to patients. Who this helps: This benefits patients with VEXAS syndrome and their doctors.

PubMed

Development and implementation of the AIDA international registry for patients with Schnitzler's syndrome.

2022

Frontiers in medicine

Sota J, Vitale A, Więsik-Szewczyk E, Frassi M, Lopalco G +46 more

Plain English
This research paper talks about the creation of an international database (called the AIDA International Registry) specifically for patients with Schnitzler's syndrome, a rare autoinflammatory disease. So far, 113 medical centers from 23 countries are participating in this registry, collecting detailed health data from these patients to improve understanding and treatment of the condition. This registry is important because it helps gather standardized information that could lead to better research and collaboration internationally, ultimately benefiting patient care. Who this helps: This helps patients with Schnitzler's syndrome and their doctors.

PubMed

Development and implementation of the AIDA International Registry for patients with Periodic Fever, Aphthous stomatitis, Pharyngitis, and cervical Adenitis syndrome.

2022

Frontiers in pediatrics

Della Casa F, Vitale A, Cattalini M, La Torre F, Capozio G +49 more

Plain English
This study focused on creating an international registry to collect detailed information about patients with PFAPA syndrome, which causes periodic fevers and mouth sores. Since August 2021, 112 healthcare centers from 23 countries have participated, collecting extensive data on patients through nearly 3,900 questions covering demographics, symptoms, and treatment impacts. By gathering this information, researchers aim to enhance understanding and treatment of PFAPA, ultimately improving patient care. Who this helps: This helps patients with PFAPA and their healthcare providers by improving the knowledge and treatment options for their condition.

PubMed

Efficacy and safety of tocilizumab in adult-onset Still's disease: Real-life experience from the international AIDA registry.

2022

Seminars in arthritis and rheumatism

Sota J, Vitale A, Lopalco G, Pereira RMR, Giordano HF +46 more

Plain English
This study looked at the effectiveness and safety of a medication called tocilizumab (TCZ) in treating adult-onset Still's disease (AOSD). Researchers analyzed data from 31 patients and found that TCZ significantly reduced disease activity scores and blood markers related to inflammation over time. The retention rate for TCZ showed that 83% of patients were still on the medication after one year, and the average daily dose of corticosteroids decreased from 18 mg to 4 mg, suggesting that TCZ can help manage the disease while reducing reliance on steroids. Who this helps: Patients with adult-onset Still's disease benefit from this treatment.

PubMed

Functional Modulation of Human Macrophages by Secreted Phospholipases A: Implications in Cancer.

2022

Biomedicines

Galdiero MR, Mormile I, Granata F, Loffredo S, Detoraki A +5 more

Plain English
This study focused on how certain enzymes called secreted phospholipases A (sPLAs) affect a type of immune cell known as macrophages, which play a key role in cancer development. Researchers found that two specific types of sPLAs, group IIA and group X, significantly influence the behavior of macrophages involved in cancer, impacting inflammation linked to tumor growth. Understanding how these enzymes interact with immune cells could lead to new ways to predict cancer outcomes and improve cancer treatments. Who this helps: This helps patients and doctors by improving cancer treatment strategies.

PubMed

Immunogenicity and Safety of mRNA Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Vaccines in Patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus.

2022

Vaccines

Mormile I, Della Casa F, Petraroli A, Furno A, Granata F +3 more

Plain English
Researchers tested whether people with lupus (an autoimmune disease) could safely receive the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine and whether their bodies would respond to it properly. They tracked 41 lupus patients and 29 people with a different rare condition to compare, measuring antibodies after the first shot and again after the second shot. Both groups developed strong protective antibodies at similar levels, and the vaccine did not trigger lupus flare-ups or make the disease worse.

PubMed

Bilateral Chilblain-like Lesions of the Toes Characterized by Microvascular Remodeling in Adolescents During the COVID-19 Pandemic.

2021

JAMA network open

Discepolo V, Catzola A, Pierri L, Mascolo M, Della Casa F +10 more

Plain English
This study looked at skin conditions resembling chilblains in 17 adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic in Italy. The researchers found that almost all participants (94%) had these lesions on both feet and that laboratory tests confirmed that these skin issues were not caused by a COVID-19 infection. Understanding these lesions is important as it helps differentiate between symptoms related to COVID-19 and those that are not, reassuring that these conditions were benign and not linked to the virus. Who this helps: This information benefits patients and their families by providing clarity on non-COVID-related skin issues during the pandemic.

PubMed

[Burgdorf and cataracts].

1985

Klinische Monatsblatter fur Augenheilkunde

Della Casa F

Plain English
This paper talks about Johann Heinrich Jung, known as Stilling, who was a pioneer in cataract surgery. In 1802, he performed a significant cataract operation in Burgdorf, which contributed to the development of surgical techniques for this eye condition. His work is important because it laid the groundwork for modern cataract surgery, helping many people see better. Who this helps: Patients suffering from cataracts.

PubMed

[Therapy of malignant exophthalmos].

1970

Ophthalmologica. Journal international d'ophtalmologie. International journal of ophthalmology. Zeitschrift fur Augenheilkunde

Della Casa F

PubMed

[On the reconstruction of the lacrimal apparatus].

1963

Ophthalmologica. Journal international d'ophtalmologie. International journal of ophthalmology. Zeitschrift fur Augenheilkunde

DELLA CASA F

PubMed

[Therapy of lacrimal duct injuries].

1959

Ophthalmologica. Journal international d'ophtalmologie. International journal of ophthalmology. Zeitschrift fur Augenheilkunde

DELLA CASA F

PubMed

[Perforation of the cornea of both eyes by voluntary insertion of foreign bodies].

1950

Ophthalmologica. Journal international d'ophtalmologie. International journal of ophthalmology. Zeitschrift fur Augenheilkunde

DELLA CASA F

PubMed

[Metastatic abscess in the anterior chamber in a case of chronic osteo-myelitis].

1947

Annales d'oculistique

DELLA CASA F, BERTHOUD

PubMed

[Metastatic abscess formation in the anterior chamber of the eye in chronic, osteomyelitis].

1946

Ophthalmologica. Journal international d'ophtalmologie. International journal of ophthalmology. Zeitschrift fur Augenheilkunde

DELLA CASA F

PubMed

[For the official introduction of the dark adaptation test in transportation].

1946

Ophthalmologica. Journal international d'ophtalmologie. International journal of ophthalmology. Zeitschrift fur Augenheilkunde

DELLA CASA F, BIRKHAEUSER R

PubMed

Publication data sourced from PubMed . Plain-English summaries generated by AI. Not medical advice.