EULAR recommendations for the management of rheumatoid arthritis with synthetic and biological disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs: 2016 update

Adherence and health literacy as related to outcome of patients treated for rheumatoid arthritis : Analyses of a large-scale observational study

BACKGROUND

Disabilities in daily living and quality of life are key endpoints for evaluating the treatment outcome for rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Factors possibly contributing to good outcome are adherence and health literacy.

METHODS

The survey included a representative nationwide sample of German rheumatologists and their patients with RA. The physician questionnaire included the disease activity score (DAS28) and medical prescriptions. The patient questionnaire included fatigue (EORTC QLQ-FA13), health assessment questionnaire (HAQ), quality of life (SF-12), health literacy (HELP), and patients' listings of their medications. Adherence was operationalized as follows: patient-reported (CQR5), behavioral (concordance between physicians' and patients' listings of medications), physician-assessed, and a combined measure of physician rating (1 = very adherent, 0 = less adherent) and the match between physicians' prescriptions and patients' accounts of their medications (1 = perfect match, 0 = no perfect match) that yielded three categories of adherence: high, medium, and low. Simple and multiple linear regressions (controlling for age, sex, smoking, drinking alcohol, and sport) were calculated using adherence and health literacy as predictor variables, and disease activity and patient-reported outcomes as dependent variables.

RESULTS

708 pairs of patient and physician questionnaires were analyzed. The mean patient age (73% women) was 60 years (SD = 12). Multiple regression analyses showed that high adherence was significantly associated with 5/7 outcome variables and health literacy with 7/7 outcome variables.

CONCLUSION

Adherence and health literacy had weak but consistent effects on most outcomes. Thus, enhancing adherence and understanding of medical information could improve outcome, which should be investigated in future interventional studies.

Clinical outcomes of patients with active rheumatoid arthritis with normal acute phase reactant values

AIM

Despite high clinical disease activity, some patients with active rheumatoid arthritis (RA) have normal acute phase reactant (APR) values. This study aimed to determine the clinical outcomes of active RA patients with normal APR values.

METHOD

Of 5376 patients with RA enrolled in the Korean observational study network for arthritis (KORONA) registry, 400 patients with disease duration of <2 years who had Clinical Disease Activity Index (CDAI) score of >2.8 at baseline, biologic-naïve, and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and C-reactive protein (CRP) drawn at both baseline and 2-year follow-up visits were identified. Patients were grouped according to baseline APR levels: normal APRs, one APR elevated, and both APRs elevated.

RESULTS

Baseline tender and swollen joint counts, mean CDAI and Health Assessment Questionnaire-Disability Index (HAQ-DI) scores were significantly lower in the normal APRs group compared with APR-elevated groups (P < 0.0001). At 2-year follow-up, mean CDAI scores, HAQ-DI, and percentage of the patient achieving remission were not significantly different between the normal APRs group compared with the APR-elevated groups regardless of the baseline disease activity. However, in patients with baseline CDAI moderate to high disease activity, the normal APRs group less frequently required initiation of the biologic disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs compared with the APR-elevated groups (P = 0.044).

CONCLUSION

Active RA patients with normal APR values have milder disease presentation, but similar clinical outcomes to those with elevated APRs.

The intensity of joint pain in relation to changes in serum TNFα during therapy with anti-TNFα inhibitors

Introduction

Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNFα) inhibitors have significantly improved the outcomes of treatment for rheumatoid arthritis (RA). In the present study, we aimed to determine whether serum levels of TNFα during therapy with TNFα inhibitors do really reflect the disease activity and correspond to the intensity of pain experienced.

Materials and methods

Thirty RA patients were examined before and after 12 weeks of routine therapy with TNFα inhibitors. Serum levels of TNFα were measured with a high-sensitivity immunoassay and related to patients’ clinical and biochemical status. Disease activity was assessed by the modified disease activity score (DAS28).

Results

A median relative change in TNFα was 13%. The patients were stratified according to whether the relative change in serum TNFα after therapy was above or below this median value. The patients from both subgroups did not differ in baseline characteristics and response to therapy. However, the patients in whom serum TNFα increased after therapy above the median value had more tender joints after treatment than patients from the other group. Consequently, the number of tender joints after the treatment correlated with absolute TNFα concentrations at this time (r = 0.37; p = 0.049) and the magnitude of changes in serum TNFα correlated with a change in the number of tender joints (r = − 0.48; p = 0.008).

Conclusions

Circulating TNFα levels did not decrease in RA patients treated with TNFα inhibitors, despite clinical and biochemical improvement. It is possible, that circulating TNFα is responsible for the persistence of joint pain in this group of patients.

Immunosuppressive treatment and the risk of diabetes in rheumatoid arthritis

Objective

Inflammation and anti-inflammatory treatments might influence the risk of diabetes. The objective of this study was to assess factors associated with incident diabetes in rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods

The study population consisted of RA patients from a multi-center cohort study, Corrona. To assess risk associated with disease modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) exposure, we assessed five mutually exclusive DMARD groups. Additionally, we assessed the risk associated with body mass index (BMI, <25, 25–30, >30 kg/m2) and glucocorticoid usage. Incident cases of diabetes were confirmed through adjudication, and Cox regression models were fit to estimate the risk of incident diabetes.

Results

We identified 21,775 DMARD treatment regimens, the mean (SD) age at the index visit was 58 (13) years, disease duration 10 (10) years, and 30% used oral glucocorticoids at the time. Eighty-four incident cases of diabetes were confirmed within the treatment exposure periods. The hazard ratio (HR, 95% confidence interval) for diabetes was significantly reduced in patients receiving TNF inhibitors, HR 0.35 (0.13, 0.91), compared to patients treated with non-biologic DMARDs other than hydroxychloroquine and methotrexate. Hydroxychloroquine, methotrexate and use of other biologic DMARDs had a numerically reduced risk compared to the same group. Patients prescribed ≥7.5 mg of glucocorticoids had a HR of 2.33 (1.68, 3.22) of incident diabetes compared with patients not prescribed oral glucocorticoids. RA patients with a BMI >30 had a HR of 6.27 (2.97, 13.25) compared to patients with BMI ≤25.

Conclusion

DMARDs, glucocorticoids and obesity influenced the risk of incident diabetes in a large cohort of RA patients. Monitoring for the occurrence of diabetes should be part of routine RA management with a focus on specific subgroups.

Cytosolic group IVA phospholipase A2 inhibitors, AVX001 and AVX002, ameliorate collagen-induced arthritis

Background

Cytosolic phospholipase A2 group IVA (cPLA2α)-deficient mice are resistant to collagen-induced arthritis, suggesting that cPLA2α is an important therapeutic target. Here, the anti-inflammatory effects of the AVX001 and AVX002 cPLA2α inhibitors were investigated.

Methods

In vitro enzyme activity was assessed by a modified Dole assay. Effects on inhibiting IL-1β-induced release of arachidonic acid (AA) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) were measured using SW982 synoviocyte cells. In vivo effects were studied in prophylactic and therapetic murine collagen-induced arthritis models and compared to methotrexate (MTX) and Enbrel, commonly used anti-rheumatic drugs. The in vivo response to treatment was evaluated in terms of the arthritis index (AI), histopathology scores and by plasma levels of PGE2 following 14 and 21 days of treatment.

Results

Both cPLA2α inhibitors are potent inhibitors of cPLA2α in vitro. In synoviocytes, AVX001 and AVX002 reduce, but do not block, release of AA or PGE2 synthesis. In both CIA models, the AI and progression of arthritis were significantly lower in the mice treated with AVX001, AVX002, Enbrel and MTX than in non- treated mice. Several histopathology parameters of joint damage were found to be significantly reduced by AVX001 and AVX002 in both prophylactic and therapeutic study modes; namely articular cavity and peripheral tissue inflammatory cell infiltration; capillary and synovial hyperplasia; articular cartilage surface damage; and periostal and endochondral ossification. In comparison, MTX did not significantly improve any histopathology parameters and Enbrel only improved ossification. Finally, as a biomarker of inflammation and as an indication that AVX001 and AVX002 blocked the cPLA2α target, we determined that plasma levels of PGE2 were significantly reduced in response to the AVX inhibitors and MTX, but not Enbrel.

Conclusions

AVX001 and AVX002 display potent anti-inflammatory activity and disease-modifying properties in cellular and in vivo models. The in vivo effects of AVX001 and AVX002 were comparable to, or superior, to those of MTX and Enbrel. Taken together, this study suggests that cPLA2α inhibitors AVX001 and AVX002 are promising small molecule disease-modifying anti-rheumatic therapies.

Comparative effectiveness of abatacept, rituximab, tocilizumab and TNFi biologics in RA: results from the nationwide Swedish register

OBJECTIVES

Current guidelines rank abatacept, rituximab, tocilizumab and TNF-inhibitors (TNFi) as having equal effectiveness for the treatment of RA, at least as second line therapies. These recommendations are mainly based on meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials, with few direct drug-drug comparisons. Our objective was to compare the real-world absolute and relative effectiveness among RA patients starting any of the available biologic DMARDs (bDMARDs).

METHODS

We used the Swedish Rheumatology Register to identify patients with RA initiating TNFi, rituximab, abatacept or tocilizumab in 2010-2016 as first bDMARD (n = 9333), or after switch from TNFi as first bDMARD (n = 3941). National Swedish registers provided additional covariates and censoring events. Effectiveness was assessed 3 and 12 months after treatment start, as the proportion remaining on therapy and with EULAR Good Response, HAQ improvement >0.2, zero swollen/tender joints and CDAI remission. Adjusted differences were estimated with multivariable linear regression.

RESULTS

Patients starting non-TNFi (vs TNFi) as first bDMARD had a higher proportion remaining on drug and reaching most response outcomes as first bDMARD (1-year EULAR Good Response/HAQ improvement: TNFi 24.9/25.4%, rituximab 28.6/37.2%, abatacept 31.9/33.7%, tocilizumab 50.9/43.1%). After switch from a first TNFi, rituximab and tocilizumab, but not abatacept, were associated with significantly better response measures than TNFi (1-year EULAR Good Response/HAQ improvement: TNFi 11.6/16.1%, rituximab 24.8/33.2%, abatacept 13.1/17.5%, tocilizumab 34.1/29.4%). Differences remained significant after adjusting for potential confounders.

CONCLUSION

Treatment outcomes among RA patients treated in Swedish clinical practice are in line with a superior effectiveness of non-TNFi bDMARDs, in particular tocilizumab and rituximab, compared with TNFi.

Increased Risk of Hypertension Associated with Spondyloarthritis Disease Duration: Results from the ASAS-COMOSPA Study

OBJECTIVE

Spondyloarthritis (SpA) is associated with a number of cardiovascular (CV) comorbidities. We examined the association of SpA disease duration and delay in diagnosis with CV-related conditions.

METHODS

Using data from the COMOSPA study, the associations between SpA disease duration and CV-related conditions were evaluated in univariable and multivariable logistic regression models. Each model examined 1 CV-related factor as dependent and "SpA disease duration" as a predictor, adjusted for relevant confounders.

RESULTS

Data from 3923 subjects (median SpA disease duration 5.1 yrs, interquartile range 1.3-11.8 yrs) were available for analysis. The main CV-related conditions were hypertension (HTN; 22.4%), ischemic heart disease (2.6%), stroke (1.3%), and diabetes mellitus (5.5%). HTN was associated with SpA disease duration in both univariable and multivariable analysis, with an OR of 1.129 (95% CI 1.072-1.189; p < 0.001) for each 5-year increase in SpA disease duration. Other factors associated with HTN were age, male sex, current body mass index, ever steroid therapy, and ever synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drug therapy, but not nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAID). In subgroup analysis, the strongest association of HTN and disease duration was seen in subjects with the axial-only SpA phenotype (OR 1.202, 95% CI 1.053-1.372) but not in those with peripheral-only SpA (OR 0.902, 95% CI 0.760-1.070). The other CV conditions were not associated with SpA disease duration.

CONCLUSION

Duration of SpA disease in the ASAS-COMOSPA cohort is associated with higher odds of HTN, particularly in those with axial disease, but not with other CV-related conditions. The association with HTN does not appear to be related to NSAID exposure.

The value of the simplified RAMRIS-5 in early RA patients under methotrexate therapy using high-field MRI

BACKGROUND

The aim of the study was to evaluate a simplified version of the Rheumatoid Arthritis Magnetic Resonance Imaging Score (RAMRIS) for five joints of the hand (RAMRIS-5) in patients with early rheumatoid arthritis (RA) before and after the initiation of methotrexate (MTX) therapy using high-resolution, 3-T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

METHODS

Twenty-eight patients with a seropositive, early RA (disease duration of less than 6 months (range 2-23 weeks)) according to 2010 American College of Rheumatology/European League Against Rheumatism (ACR/EULAR) criteria (mean age 56.8 years, range 39-74) were prospectively assessed with a baseline investigation including clinical assessment (disease activity score of 28 joints (DAS-28) and C-reactive protein (CRP)) and 3-T MRI of the clinically dominant hand. Follow-up visits were performed 3 and 6 months after initiation of a MTX therapy at baseline. MRI scans were analyzed in accordance with RAMRIS and the simplified RAMRIS-5.

RESULTS

DAS-28 and CRP decreased significantly after initiation of MTX therapy. Even though erosion scores increased over time, RAMRIS and RAMRIS-5 also decreased significantly after the start of therapy. There was a strong correlation between the total RAMRIS-5 and RAMRIS at baseline (r = 0.838; P <0.001) and follow-up (3 months: r = 0.876; P <0.001; 6 months: r = 0.897; P <0.001). In the short term (3-month follow-up), RAMRIS and RAMRIS-5 demonstrated similar ability to detect changes for all subgroups (bone edema, erosion, and synovitis). In the long-term comparison (6-month follow-up), RAMRIS-5 also showed similar effectiveness when detecting changes in bone edema and erosion compared with RAMRIS. Deviations occurred regarding only synovitis, where change was slightly higher in RAMRIS-5: SRM (RAMRIS) = 0.07 ± 0.14; SRM (RAMRIS-5) = 0.34 ± 0.06.

CONCLUSIONS

Three-Tesla MRI-based RAMRIS-5 is a simplified and resource-saving RAMRIS score which compares favorably with the RAMRIS when detecting changes in early RA. Even though there is a slight abbreviation between RAMRIS-5 and the original score regarding the change of synovitis, it may be used for diagnosis and therapy monitoring in follow-up evaluations.

Turkish League Against Rheumatism (TLAR) Recommendations for the Pharmacological Management of Rheumatoid Arthritis: 2018 Update Under Guidance of Current Recommendations

Objectives

This study aims to report the assessment of the Turkish League Against Rheumatism (TLAR) expert panel on the compliance and adaptation of the European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) 2016 recommendations for the management of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in Turkey.

Patients and methods

The EULAR 2016 recommendations for the treatment of RA were voted by 27 specialists experienced in this field with regard to participation rate for each recommendation and significance of items. Afterwards, each recommendation was brought forward for discussion and any alteration gaining ≥70% approval was accepted. Also, Turkish version of each item was rearranged. Last version of the recommendations was then revoted to determine the level of agreement. Levels of agreement of the two voting rounds were compared with Wilcoxon signed-rank test. In case of significant difference, the item with higher level of agreement was accepted. In case of no difference, the changed item was selected.

Results

Four overarching principles and 12 recommendations were assessed among which three overarching principles and one recommendation were changed. The changed overarching principles emphasized the importance of physical medicine and rehabilitation specialists as well as rheumatologists for the care of RA patients in Turkey. An alteration was made in the eighth recommendation on treatment of active RA patients with unfavorable prognostic indicators after failure of three conventional disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs. Remaining principles were accepted as the same although some alterations were suggested but could not find adequate support to reach significance.

Conclusion

Expert opinion of the TLAR for the treatment of RA was composed for practices in Turkish rheumatology and/or physical medicine and rehabilitation clinics.

Efficacy and safety of tofacitinib in Japanese patients with rheumatoid arthritis by background methotrexate dose: A post hoc analysis of clinical trial data

Objectives: Tofacitinib is an oral JAK inhibitor for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). We investigated concomitant methotrexate (MTX) dose on tofacitinib efficacy/safety in Japanese RA patients. Methods: This post hoc analysis pooled data from a 3-month phase 2 study (NCT00603512) and a 24-month phase 3 study (NCT00847613). Patients (N= 254) received tofacitinib (low-dose (1 or 3 mg), 5 mg, 10 mg) twice daily (BID) or placebo, with low-dose (>0 to 8 mg/week) or high-dose (>8 mg/week) MTX. Efficacy (ACR20/50/70 and DAS28-4 (ESR)<2.6 response rates; changes from baseline (CFB) in DAS28-4 (ESR) and HAQ-DI) and safety (adverse events (AEs), discontinuations due to AEs, serious AEs, and deaths) were assessed through month 3. Results: At month 3, ACR20/50/70 response rates, mean DAS28-4 (ESR) CFB and HAQ-DI CFB were similar across MTX doses and generally greater for all tofacitinib doses versus placebo. AE rates with low-dose/high-dose MTX were: placebo, 28.6%/52.9%; tofacitinib low-dose, 50.0%/66.7%; 5 mg BID, 56.5%/64.3%; 10 mg BID, 73.8%/67.7%. Conclusion: Tofacitinib efficacy in Japanese RA patients may be unaffected by background MTX dose. AE rates with low-dose versus high-dose MTX were lower with placebo, tofacitinib low-dose or 5 mg BID, but not 10 mg BID, with no apparent differences across system organ class/laboratory parameters.

The Use of Rheumatic Disease Comorbidity Index for Predicting Clinical Response and Retention Rate in a Cohort of Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients Receiving Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha Inhibitors

Introduction

To retrospectively evaluate the impact of comorbidities on treatment choice, 12-month clinical response, and 24-month retention rate in a cohort of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) treated with a first-line tumor necrosis factor alpha inhibitor (TNFi), by using for the first time the Rheumatic Disease Comorbidity Index (RDCI).

Methods

The study population was extracted from a local registry of RA patients receiving adalimumab or etanercept as first-line biologics between January 2001 and December 2013. The prevalence of comorbidities was computed, and patients were stratified according to RDCI for evaluating the role of comorbidities on TNFi choice, concomitant methotrexate, clinical response (1-year DAS28-ESR remission and low disease activity [LDA] and EULAR good-moderate response), and the 24-month retention rate.

Results

346 patients (172 adalimumab and 174 etanercept) were included. A significantly higher EULAR good/moderate response (P = 0.020) and DAS28-ESR remission (P = 0.003) were obtained according to RDCI (0, 1, 2, or ≥3). Lower RDCI (P = 0.022), male sex (P = 0.006), higher baseline DAS28-ESR (P = 0.001), ETN (P < 0.001), and concomitant methotrexate (P = 0.016) were predictors of EULAR good/moderate response. Elevated RDCI was a predictor of discontinuation of biologics (P = 0.036), whereas treatment with etanercept (P < 0.001) and methotrexate (P = 0.007) was associated with a lower risk of TNFi withdrawal.

Conclusions

Multimorbidity, measured by RDCI, is a negative predictor of TNFi persistence on treatment and of achieving a good clinical response. The use of RDCI may be very useful for identifying patients with RA carrying those comorbid conditions associated with poor prognostic outcomes and for defining new treatment targets in multimorbid RA patients.

IL-6 inhibitor for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis: A comprehensive review

Tocilizumab (TCZ) is an interleukin-6 (IL-6) inhibitor used for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). It was developed in 2008, and its effectiveness is supported by evidence from all over the world based on its first decade of use. Although the overall efficacy and safety profiles of TCZ are similar to those of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors, TCZ displays certain differences. The most notable advantage of TCZ is its usefulness as a monotherapy. Additionally, TCZ is favorable in the improvement of systemic inflammatory symptoms such as anemia and fatigue. The low immunogenicity of TCZ contributes favorably to long-term drug retention. Due to frequent relapse after TCZ cessation, TCZ use should be tapered beyond remission. During TCZ therapy, C-reactive protein (CRP) is unable to recognize disease activity and the severity of infection. The most common adverse events (AEs) are infection and abnormalities in laboratory findings including dyslipidemia, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, and abnormality of liver enzymes. TCZ obscures the symptoms of infection. Therefore, stealth infections without obvious CRP elevation can sometimes cause severe damage to patients. Lower intestinal perforation is an uncommon but serious AE in TCZ therapy. Further clinical investigations will continue to refine the IL-6 inhibitory strategy.

Preferences of patients with rheumatoid arthritis regarding disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs: a discrete choice experiment

BACKGROUND

Although patients have different treatment preferences, these individual preferences could often be grouped in subgroups with shared preferences. Knowledge of these subgroups as well as factors associated with subgroup membership supports health care professionals in the understanding of what matters to patients in clinical decision-making.

OBJECTIVES

To identify subgroups of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) based on their shared preferences toward disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), and to identify factors associated with subgroup membership.

METHODS

A discrete choice experiment to determine DMARD preferences of adult patients with RA was designed based on a literature review, expert recommendations, and focus groups. In this multicenter study, patients were asked to state their preferred choice between two different hypothetical treatment options, described by seven DMARD characteristics with three levels within each characteristic. Latent class analyses and multinomial logistic regressions were used to identify subgroups and the characteristics (patient characteristics, disease-related variables, and beliefs about medicines) associated with subgroup membership.

RESULTS

Among 325 participating patients with RA, three subgroups were identified: an administration-driven subgroup (45.6%), a benefit-driven subgroup (29.7%), and a balanced subgroup (24.7%). Patients who were currently using biologic DMARDs were significantly more likely to belong to the balanced subgroup than the administration-driven subgroup (relative risk ratio (RRR): 0.50, 95% CI: 0.28-0.89). Highly educated patients were significantly more likely to belong to the benefit-driven subgroup than the balanced subgroup (RRR: 11.4, 95% CI: 0.97-133.6). Patients' medication-related concerns did not contribute significantly to subgroup membership, whereas a near-significant association was found between patients' beliefs about medication necessity and their membership of the benefit-driven subgroup (RRR: 1.12, 95% CI: 1.00-1.23).

CONCLUSION

Three subgroups with shared preferences were identified. Only biologic DMARD use and educational level were associated with subgroup membership. Integrating patient's medication preferences in pharmacotherapy decisions may improve the quality of decisions and possibly medication adherence.

Therapeutic glucocorticoids prevent bone loss but drive muscle wasting when administered in chronic polyarthritis

BACKGROUND

Patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) experience extra-articular manifestations including osteoporosis and muscle wasting, which closely associate with severity of disease. Whilst therapeutic glucocorticoids (GCs) reduce inflammation in RA, their actions on muscle and bone metabolism in the context of chronic inflammation remain unclear. We utilised the TNF-tg model of chronic polyarthritis to ascertain the impact of therapeutic GCs on bone and muscle homeostasis in the context of systemic inflammation.

METHODS

TNF-tg and wild-type (WT) animals received either vehicle or the GC corticosterone (100 μg/ml) in drinking water at onset of arthritis. Arthritis severity and clinical parameters were measured, serum collected for ELISA and muscle and bone biopsies collected for μCT, histology and mRNA analysis. In vivo findings were examined in primary cultures of osteoblasts, osteoclasts and myotubes.

RESULTS

TNF-tg mice receiving GCs showed protection from inflammatory bone loss, characterised by a reduction in serum markers of bone resorption, osteoclast numbers and osteoclast activity. In contrast, muscle wasting was markedly increased in WT and TNF-tg animals receiving GCs, independently of inflammation. This was characterised by a reduction in muscle weight and fibre size, and an induction in anti-anabolic and catabolic signalling.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates that when given in early onset chronic polyarthritis, oral GCs partially protect against inflammatory bone loss, but induce marked muscle wasting. These results suggest that in patients with inflammatory arthritis receiving GCs, the development of interventions to manage deleterious side effects in muscle should be prioritised.

Comparison of health-related quality of life in patients with rheumatoid arthritis during conventional or conventional plus biological therapy in Poland

PURPOSE

The main purpose of this study was to compare the level of health-related quality of life (HRQoL) using Nottingham Health Profile (NHP) in Polish patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) during therapy applying disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) with conventional synthetics (csDMARDs) or with csDMARDs in combination with biological drugs (bDMARDs). The second purpose was to analyze the correlation between the domain values of NHP and the demographic and clinical parameters, functional efficiency, and mood.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The studies involved 212 patients with RA, divided into two groups: group I - 126 persons treated using csDMARDs, group II - 86 patients using csDMARDs in combination with bDMARDs. A diagnostic survey was used applying NHP for HRQoL, Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), and Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ). The 28-Joint Disease Activity Score (DAS-28) was calculated.

RESULTS

The patients with RA in both studied groups did not differ significantly in terms of all the NHP domains, values of HAQ and BDI. The DAS-28 value, the number of swollen joints, and the duration of morning stiffness were significantly smaller among patients from group II. However, in both groups, the majority of the analyzed components of NHP demonstrated significant correlations with values of HAQ and BDI and some of the domains of NHP - with DAS-28.

CONCLUSION

The level of HRQoL, functional efficiency, and mood are comparable in patients treated conventionally and in combination with biological drugs. The HRQoL level shows correlation with the occurrence of depression symptoms, and the energy level, the sensation of pain, and physical abilities are covariates with daily activities. The intensity of the activity of RA as well as experiencing pain and the duration of morning stiffness is smaller among patients applying csDMARDs plus bDMARDs compared with patients treated only conventionally.

Clinical immunity in bone and joints

The immune system and bone metabolism influence each other. An imbalance in the immune system, resulting in inflammatory stimuli may induce an imbalance in bone turnover via induction of osteoclast differentiation and inhibition of osteoblast differentiation, leading to various pathological conditions including osteoporosis. T-cell subsets, helper T (Th)1 and Th17, which activate the immune system, induce osteoclasts, whereas regulatory T (Treg) cells, responsible for immunosuppression, inhibit osteoclastic differentiation. In addition, inflammatory cytokines, such as the tumor necrosis factor (TNF), also cause an imbalance in bone turnover, induction of osteoclasts and inhibition of osteoblasts. Treatments targeting the immune system may regulate abnormalities in bone metabolism, while also controlling immune abnormalities. In rheumatoid arthritis (RA), a representative autoimmune disease, immune abnormality and accompanying prolongation of synovial inflammation cause bone and cartilage destruction, periarticular osteoporosis, and systemic osteoporosis. Joint damage and osteoporosis in RA occur through totally different mechanisms. Stimulation by inflammatory cytokines induces the expression of the receptor activator for nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL) in T cells and synovial cells, thereby inducing bone destruction due to osteoblast-independent osteoclast maturation. However, biological products targeting TNF or interleukin-6 not only control disease activity, but also inhibit joint destruction. However, these biological products are not effective for osteoporosis. Conversely, anti-RANKL antibody inhibits osteoporosis and bone destruction, but exerts no influence on RA disease activity. Such differences in therapeutic efficacy may indicate the necessity for rethinking current theories on the mechanism of bone metabolism abnormality and joint destruction. Understanding the mechanisms underlying these pathologies via commonalities existing between the immune system and the metabolic system may lead to the development of new treatments.

Associations Between Non-neurological Autoimmune Disorders and Psychosis: A Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

A relationship between non-neurological autoimmune (NNAI) disorders and psychosis has been widely reported but not yet subjected to meta-analysis. We conducted the first meta-analysis examining the association between NNAI disorders and psychosis and investigated the effect of 1) temporality (as determined by study design), 2) psychiatric diagnosis, and 3) specific autoimmune disorders.

METHODS

Major databases were searched for articles published until April 2018; 31 studies, comprising data for >25 million individuals, were eligible. Using random-effects models, we examined the overall association between all NNAI disorders and psychosis; rheumatoid arthritis was examined separately given the well-established negative association with psychosis. Stratified analyses investigated the effect of temporality, psychiatric diagnosis, and specific NNAI disorders.

RESULTS

We observed a positive overall association between NNAI disorders and psychosis (odds ratio [OR] = 1.26; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.12-1.41) that was consistent across study designs and psychiatric diagnoses; however, considerable heterogeneity was detected (I² = 88.08). Patterns varied across individual NNAI disorders; associations were positive for pernicious anemia (OR = 1.91; 95% CI, 1.29-2.84), pemphigoid (OR = 1.90; 95% CI, 1.62-2.24), psoriasis (OR = 1.70; 95% CI, 1.51-1.91), celiac disease (OR = 1.53; 95% CI, 1.12-2.10), and Graves' disease (OR = 1.33; 95% CI, 1.03-1.72) and negative for ankylosing spondylitis (OR = 0.72; 95% CI, 0.54-0.98) and rheumatoid arthritis (OR = 0.65; 95% CI, 0.50-0.84).

CONCLUSIONS

While we observed a positive overall association between NNAI disorders and psychosis, this was not consistent across all NNAI disorders. Specific factors, including distinct inflammatory pathways, genetic influences, autoantibodies targeting brain proteins, and exposure to corticosteroid treatment, may therefore underlie this association.

Ultrasound-triggered perfluorocarbon-derived nanobombs for targeted therapies of rheumatoid arthritis

The targeted US-triggered PFC-based “nanobombs” with US used to treat the RA in this work would offer a new treatment strategy and have a great potential for the application in the areas of theranostic agent and nanomedicine treatment.

Simultaneous Development of Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy and Cryptococcal Meningitis during Methotrexate and Infliximab Treatment

Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) is a demyelinating disease of the central nervous system caused by reactivation of the JC virus under an immunosuppressed state. This condition carries a high risk of cryptococcal meningitis. We herein report a 65-year-old woman who simultaneously developed PML and cryptococcal meningitis and presented with bilateral sixth nerve palsy. She had been treated with methotrexate and infliximab for rheumatoid arthritis. Her symptoms improved with antifungal drug treatment and discontinuation of immunosuppression therapy. Although concurrent PML and cryptococcal meningitis is rare, it should be considered in immunosuppressed patients.

How to treat patients with rheumatoid arthritis when methotrexate has failed? The use of a multiple propensity score to adjust for confounding by indication in observational studies

OBJECTIVES

To compare consecutive disease modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD)-treatment regimes in daily practice in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) who failed on initial methotrexate, while using a multiple propensity score (PS) method to control for the spurious effects of confounding by indication.

METHODS

Patients with newly diagnosed RA who had failed initial treatment with methotrexate were selected from METEOR, an international, observational registry. Subsequent DMARD-treatment regimens were categorised as: (1) conventional synthetic DMARD(s) (csDMARD(s)) only (143 patients), (2) csDMARD(s)+glucocorticoid (278 patients) and (3) biological DMARD (bDMARD)±csDMARD(s) (89 patients). Multiple PS that reflect the likelihood of treatment with each treatment-regime were estimated per patient using multinomial regression. Linear mixed model analyses were performed to analyse treatment responses per category (Disease Activity Score (DAS)) after a maximum follow-up duration of 6 and 12 months, and results were presented with adjustment for the multiple PS.

RESULTS

After 6 months, follow-up PS-adjusted treatment responses yielded a change in DAS per year (95%  CI) of -2.00 (-2.65 to -1.36) if patients received a bDMARD; of -0.96 (-1.33 to -0.59) if patients received csDMARD(s)+glucocorticoids and of -0.73 (-1.21 to -0.25) if patients received csDMARDs only. These changes were -0.91 (-1.23 to -0.60); -0.43 (-0.62 to -0.23) and -0.39 (-0.66 to -0.13), respectively after 1  year of follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

In this analysis of worldwide common practice data with adjustment for multiple PS, patients with RA who had failed initial treatment with methotrexate monotherapy had a better DAS-response after a subsequent switch to a bDMARD-containing treatment regimen than to a regimen with csDMARD(s) only, with or without glucocorticoids.

An Overview of VPAC Receptors in Rheumatoid Arthritis: Biological Role and Clinical Significance

The axis comprised by the Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide (VIP) and its G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), VPAC1, and VPAC2, belong to the B1 family and signal through Gs or Gq proteins. VPAC receptors seem to preferentially interact with Gs in inflammatory cells, rather than Gq, thereby stimulating adenylate cyclase activity. cAMP is able to trigger various downstream pathways, mainly the canonical PKA pathway and the non-canonical cAMP-activated guanine nucleotide exchange factor (EPAC) pathway. Classically, the presence of VPACs has been confined to the plasma membrane; however, VPAC1 location has been described in the nuclear membrane in several cell types such as activated Th cells, where they are also functional. VPAC receptor signaling modulates a number of biological processes by tipping the balance of inflammatory mediators in macrophages and other innate immune cells, modifying the expression of TLRs, and inhibiting MMPs and the expression of adhesion molecules. Receptor signaling also downregulates coagulation factors and acute-phase proteins, promotes Th2 over Th1, stimulates Treg abundance, and finally inhibits a pathogenic Th17 profile. Thus, the VIP axis signaling regulates both the innate and adaptive immune responses in several inflammatory/autoimmune diseases. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a complex autoimmune disease that develops on a substrate of genetically susceptible individuals and under the influence of environmental factors, as well as epigenetic mechanisms. It is a heterogeneous disease with different pathogenic mechanisms and variable clinical forms between patients with the same diagnosis. The knowledge of VIP signaling generated in both animal models and human ex vivo studies can potentially be translated to clinical reality. Most recently, the beneficial effects of nanoparticles of VIP self-associated with sterically stabilized micelles have been reported in a murine model of RA. Another novel research area is beginning to define the receptors as biomarkers in RA, with their expression levels shown to be associated with the activity of the disease and patients-reported impairment. Therefore, VPAC expression together VIP genetic variants could allow patients to be stratified at the beginning of the disease with the purpose of guiding personalized treatment decisions.

Perioperative Management of the Rheumatoid Patient

Rheumatoid arthritis is a complex disease state with multiple associated comorbidities. Perioperative evaluation of the rheumatoid patient from a multidisciplinary approach is necessary to achieve favorable outcomes. A complete history and physical, laboratory, cervical, cardiovascular, pulmonary, and medication assessment before surgery should be performed. Educating the patient on potential complications, such as wound dehiscence, infection, and venous thromboembolism, as well as general postoperative expectations, is essential when evaluating the rheumatoid patient for surgery.

How Much Information and Participation Do Patients with Inflammatory Rheumatic Diseases Prefer in Interaction with Physicians? Results of a Participatory Research Project

OBJECTIVE

Patient preferences for information and participation in medical decision-making are important prerequisites to realize a shared decision between patients and physicians. This paper aims at exploring these preferences in German patients with inflammatory rheumatic diseases and at identifying relevant determinants of these preferences.

METHODS

In a cross-sectional survey, adult patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), spondyloarthritis (SA) or different connective tissue diseases (CTS) filled out a questionnaire. Data were collected via a written questionnaire (1) sent to members of a regional self-help group or (2) handed out to patients at their rheumatologist's appointment, and (3) via an online questionnaire available nationwide. Measurements included information and participation preferences (Autonomy Preference Index; API: 0-100), as well as health-related and sociodemographic variables. Analyses included ANOVAs (group differences) and multiple regression analyses (determinants of preferences). To ensure the analysis was patient-centered we involved a trained representative of the German League Against Rheumatism as a research partner.

RESULTS

1616 patients returned questionnaires [44% response, 79% female, mean age 54 years, diagnoses 63% RA, 28% SA, 19% CTS]. Participants reported a concurring major preference for information but vastly different preferences for participation. A greater preference for participation was associated with female sex, younger age, higher household income, and self-help group membership. Conversely, a lower preference for participation was linked to blue-collar workers, retirement, higher confidence in the rheumatologist, and poorer health literacy.

CONCLUSION

Whereas patients consistently welcome comprehensive information about their disease and its different treatment options, not all patients wish to be involved in therapeutic decisions. Especially older patients with lower education status and lower health literacy, but higher confidence in their rheumatologist tend to leave the decisions rather to the physician. Different preferences should be considered in the doctor-patient communication.

Targeted hexagonal Pd nanosheet combination therapy for rheumatoid arthritis via the photothermal controlled release of MTX

Methotrexate (MTX) is a drug that is used for the clinical treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), a stubborn disease caused by over-immunization.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a common systemic inflammatory autoimmune disease characterized by painful, swollen joints that can severely impair physical function and quality of life. The presenting symptoms of musculoskeletal pain, swelling, and stiffness are common in clinical practice, so familiarity with diagnosing and managing RA is crucial. Patients with RA are at greater risk for serious infection, respiratory disease, osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, cancer, and mortality than the general population. In recent years, early diagnosis, aggressive treatment, and expanded therapeutic options of disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs have markedly improved both the management and long-term prognosis of RA.

Elshabacy F, Tayel M, Elwakd M, Mortada M, H.Elshahaly M, Mohannad N, A. Kader R, Hassan SZ, A. Elbakry S, Refaat S. Clinical Efficacy and Safety of Leflunomide in Egyptian Patients with Active Rheumatoid Arthritis: CLEAR Interim Results

Background:

Worldwide, leflunomide is a commonly used Disease-Modifying Anti-Rheumatic Drugs (DMARDs). It can be used as a monotherapy or in combination with other DMARDs to inhibit the production of inflammatory cells and accordingly reduce inflammation.

Objectives:

CLEAR is a multi-centric study that aims to assess the clinical efficacy and safety of leflunomide as first-line and/or add-on therapy to other DMARDs with or without steroids in Egyptian patients with active Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA).

Methods:

Egyptian patients with active RA for whom leflunomide was prescribed at physicians’ discretion were observed for 12 weeks. Clinical Disease Activity Index (CDAI) score, and Health Assessment Questionnaire Disability Index (HAQ-DI) score were acquired thrice during this period. This study was registered on clinicaltrials.gov (NCT03599986).

Results:

Interim analysis of the data collected from 337 patients (in 21 centers) showed a statistically significant decrease in the mean total CDAI score throughout the first 12 weeks of treatment (p<0.001); as the mean ±SD score decreased from 36.60 ±14.90 at baseline to reach 16.16 ±9.84 at week 12 (% reduction: 61.16 ±14.36). A statistically significant decrease (p<0.001) was also observed in HAQ-DI, as the mean ±SD score decreased from 1.46 ±0.69 at baseline to reach 0.67 ±0.54 at week 12 (% reduction: 56.11 ±27.59).

Conclusion:

Results of the interim analysis suggest that treatment of Egyptian patients with active RA with leflunomide (as first-line and/or add-on therapy to other DMARDs with or without steroids) for 12 weeks may be effective in terms of CDAI score and HAQ-DI score reduction and may offer an alternative for patients who experienced resistance, inadequate response or intolerance to other DMARDs.

Biosimilars in Rheumatic Diseases: Regulatory Guidelines, Efficacy and Safety Implications in Saudi Arabia

Background:

Treatment with biologic drugs has enabled many patients with inflammatory rheumatic disease to achieve disease control. In some areas of the world, limited access to biologic therapies has created a demand for lower cost options such as biosimilars, which are highly similar, but not identical to originator biologics. The safe use of biosimilars requires a scientifically rigorous review process for their approval, and guidelines that aid rheumatologists in their use.

Discussion:

In Saudi Arabia, there are no national or regional guidelines to assist rheumatologists in the proper use of biosimilars in clinical practice, and this may potentially affect the quality of patient care. In this review, we discuss the importance of developing a guidance and the need for healthcare professionals and patients to receive education about biosimilars. We discuss the unique requirements for biosimilar approval, and the differences between biosimilars, originator biologics, and generics. We review important considerations related to biosimilar use, such as switching from originator biologics to biosimilars, switching between different biosimilars, interchangeability, automatic substitution, naming, and pharmacovigilance. We also provide recommendations based on the authors’ expert opinions as rheumatologists to help ensure the appropriate use of biosimilars in Saudi Arabia.

Conclusion:

The approval and use of biosimilars must be supported by scientifically sound evidence. Guidelines for the use of biosimilars are needed in Saudi Arabia to aid rheumatologists in making clinical decisions. Additionally, educational resources should be provided to healthcare professionals and patients.

Inhibition of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) in patients with early rheumatoid arthritis results in acute changes of bone modulators

OBJECTIVE

Dicckopf-1 (Dkk-1) is a potent inhibitor of the Wnt canonical pathway. In rheumatoid arthritis (RA), Dkk-1 is upregulated by tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF). Certolizumab pegol (CMZ) is a biologic TNF-inhibitor (TNFi) effective in RA and slows radiographic progression. Data on the immediate effects (≤1-8 weeks) of TNFi on Wnt modulators are lacking. This study investigated the acute influence of TNFi treatment on Wnt modulators (Dkk-1 and sclerostin) and bone turnover markers (BTM), including intact N-terminal propeptide of collagen type I (PINP) and C-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen (CTX-I).

METHODS

This longitudinal, uncontrolled study involved female RA patients with inadequate response to conventional methotrexate who underwent treatment with CMZ. ESR, Dkk-1, sclerostin, BTM, parathyroid hormone (PTH), and 25OH-vitamin D levels were evaluated at baseline, week 1, week 4, and week 8. Radiographs of the hands and feet were obtained at baseline and the total and erosion scores were assessed using the Simple Erosion Narrowing Score method (SENS).

RESULTS

Seventeen patients were enrolled. Dkk-1 and CTX-I significantly decreased after one week of treatment with CMZ (-49.1 ± 17.1% and -25.0 ± 20.6%, respectively, p < 0.01), whereas PINP increased (+43.2 ± 31.5%, p < 0.01). These changes persisted at week 4 and 8.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study showed that TNF-alpha inhibition with CMZ promptly results in a rapid decline of serum Dkk-1 levels, alongside decreased bone resorption and increased bone formation.

Risk of Infection with Methotrexate Therapy in Inflammatory Diseases: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

The aim of this study was to determine the risk of infection in adults with inflammatory rheumatic diseases (IRDs) treated with methotrexate. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assessing methotrexate versus placebo in adults using MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CENTRAL databases from 1980 to August 2017. The primary outcome was the risk of infection associated with methotrexate therapy. We chose a random effect model to summarize adverse event outcomes as risk ratios (RRs) and related 95% confidence intervals (95% CI). Twelve RCTs (total patients 1146) met the inclusion criteria for our main analysis, and ten for risk of serious infection (total patients 906). Overall, methotrexate was associated with increased risk of infection in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) (RR: 1.25; 95% CI, 1.01⁻1.56; p = 0.04; I² = 0%), but not in other non-RA IRD populations. There was no increased risk of total infections (RR: 1.14; 95% CI, 0.98⁻1.34; p = 0.10; I² = 0%) or serious infections (RR: 0.76; 95% CI, 0.11⁻5.15; p = 0.78; I² = 0%) in all included IRDs. Conclusively, methotrexate use in IRDs is associated with a higher risk of all infections in RA, but not in other non-RA (IRD) populations. There is no increased risk of serious infections.

The three-year efficacy of iguratimod in clinical daily practice in patients with rheumatoid arthritis

Objectives: To assess the middle-term outcome of iguratimod (IGU) in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients. Methods: Sixty-nine RA patients (14 males and 55 females, mean age of 64.0 years) receiving IGU-containing therapies were enrolled. We divided these patients into three groups based on the treatment at the baseline: an IGU group, a methotrexate (MTX) plus IGU group, and a biologics plus IGU group. The baseline characteristics and clinical course were evaluated over three years. Predictive factors associated with the achievement of low disease activity (LDA) were statistically analyzed. Results: The survival rate of IGU therapy at 3 years was 40.6%. The disease activity was significantly decreased in the IGU group and MTX plus IGU group compared with the baseline. Furthermore, 38 patients (55.1%) were in remission or had LDA at 3 years. The patient gender, use of prednisolone (PSL) and DAS28-CRP at baseline were the factors associated with the achievement of remission or LDA at three years. Conclusion: IGU was effective without MTX or bDMARDs as well as in combination with MTX. A female gender, no use of PSL and a low DAS28-CRP at the initiation of IGU were associated with clinical remission or LDA achievement at three years.

Tocilizumab in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis: an evidence-based review and patient selection

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by articular and systemic manifestations, such as anemia, fatigue, osteoporosis, and increased risk for cardiovascular diseases. The pathogenesis of RA is driven by a complex network of proinflammatory cytokines, with a pivotal role of IL-6 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF). The management of RA has been dramatically changed during the last years by the introduction of a treat-to-target approach aiming to achieve an acceptable disease control. Nowadays, TNF inhibitors (TNFis) are the most frequently prescribed class of biologic therapies, but the significant proportion of patients experiencing the failure of a TNFi led to the development of alternative therapeutic options targeted on different pathways. Considering the increasing number of targeted therapeutic options for RA, there is a growing interest in the identification of potential predictors of clinical response to each available mechanism of action, with the aim to drive the management of the disease toward a personalized approach according to the concept of precision medicine. Tocilizumab (TCZ) is the first humanized anti-IL-6 receptor subunit alpha (anti-IL-6R) monoclonal antibody approved for the treatment of RA refractory to methotrexate or TNFis. TCZ inhibits both the cis- and trans-signaling cascades involving the Janus kinase-signal transducer and the activator of transcription pathway, playing a crucial role in modulating not only joint inflammation but also the previously mentioned extra-articular manifestations and comorbidities of RA, such as fatigue, anemia, bone loss, depression, type 2 diabetes, and increased cardiovascular risk. In this review, moving from pathogenetic insights and evidence-based clinical data from randomized controlled trials and real-life observational studies, we will discuss the drivers for the selection of patient candidates to receive TCZ, in order to clarify the current positioning of this drug in the treatment algorithm of RA.

Epidemiology and treatment patterns of rheumatoid arthritis in a large cohort of Arab patients

OBJECTIVES

There is limited information on the epidemiology and treatment patterns of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) across the Arab region. We aim in this study to describe the demographic characteristics, clinical profile, and treatment patterns of patients of Arab ancestry with RA.

METHODS

This is a cross sectional study of 895 patients with established rheumatoid arthritis enrolled from five sites (Jordan, Lebanon, Qatar, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), and United Arab Emirates). Demographic characteristics, clinical profile, and treatment patterns are compared between the five countries.

RESULTS

The majority of our patients are women, have an average disease duration of 10 years, are married and non-smokers, with completed secondary education. We report a high (>80%) ever-use of methotrexate (MTX) and steroids among our RA population, while the ever-use of disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and TNF-inhibitors average around 67% and 33%, respectively. There are variations in RA treatment use between the five country sites. Highest utilization of steroids is identified in Jordan and KSA (p-value < 0.001), while the highest ever-use of TNF-inhibitors is reported in KSA (p-value < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Disparities in usage of RA treatments among Arab patients are noted across the five countries. National gross domestic product (GDP), as well as some other unique features in each country likely affect these. Developing treatment guidelines specific to this region could contribute in delivering standardized therapies to RA patients.

Measuring disease activity and response to treatment in rheumatoid arthritis

Introduction: Effective treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) requires suppression of the underlying inflammation. Measurement of such inflammation, the disease activity, is mandatory to target treatment and maximize outcomes. However, this is not as straightforward as it may seem. Areas covered: The many tools developed to measure disease activity in RA, from composite scores and patient-reported outcomes, to laboratory markers and imaging are discussed, with a focus on their utility in guiding therapy and assessing response. The complex issues in measuring disease activity in RA, whether in clinical trials or normal clinical practice, and in the context of national guidelines and recommendations, available time, and resources are considered. Expert commentary: The key to effective management of RA is the rapid suppression of inflammation, ideally to remission, with maintenance of such remission. The aim is to prevent disability and maximize quality of life. Central to this is the ability to determine disease activity (potentially open to suppression) as opposed to damage (irreversible). A variety of measures are currently available, allowing better assessment of response to treatment. In the future, the development of predictive biomarkers allowing targeting of drugs may revolutionize this field and render the tools of today redundant.

Safety of combination therapy with two bDMARDs in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: A systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of the current literature to assess the safety of combining two biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (bDMARDs) in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

METHODS

We systematically searched for controlled studies evaluating safety in patients with RA treated with two bDMARDs independently of dose-regimen. Databases used were MEDLINE (via Pubmed), EMBase, Cochrane Library, Scopus, ClinicalTrials.gov, and the WHO International Clinical Trials Registry platform. A meta-analysis was performed between groups on combination therapy and patients on single therapy using random effects model calculating odds ratio (OR) as well as 95% confidence interval (CI). The primary outcome was the rate of serious adverse events (SAEs).

RESULTS

Six studies with a total of 623 patients (410 on combination therapy and 213 on single therapy) were included. Median follow-up was 9.5 months (range 6-12 months). There was a significant increase in SAEs in the combination group (14.9 vs 6.0%, OR 2.51, 95% CI 1.29-4.89, I² 0%) as well as in total adverse events (94.6 vs 89.1%, OR 2.07, 95% CI 1.11-3.86, I² 0%). When performing subgroup analysis in patients receiving only full-dose of both bDMARDs there was a significant increase in serious infections (6.7 vs 0.6%, OR 5.58, 95% CI 1.25-24.90, I² 0%) and the risk of SAEs remained significantly higher (17.1 vs 6.2%, OR 2.72, 95% CI 1.30-5.69, I² 0%).

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that combination therapy with two bDMARDs in RA appears to increase the risk of SAEs during the first twelve months of treatment.

Reasons to stop drinking alcohol among patients with rheumatoid arthritis in Sweden: a mixed-methods study

OBJECTIVES

The aims were to identify patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) who had stopped drinking alcohol and compare them with patients drinking alcohol, and to explore reasons for stopping drinking alcohol.

DESIGN

A sequential explanatory mixed methods design was used.

SETTING

Six rheumatology clinics in Southern Sweden Better Anti-Rheumatic FarmacOTherapy cohort.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 1509 patients completed the questions about alcohol and were included in the study. 86 of these had stopped drinking alcohol and 72 responded to the open question and their answers were analysed with qualitative content analysis.

OUTCOME MEASURES

The quantitative data were from a cross-sectional survey assessing disease severity, physical function (Health Assessment Questionnaire, HAQ) and health-related quality of life (EuroQol five dimensions, EQ5D), pain, fatigue, patient global assessment (PatGA) and lifestyle factors, for example, alcohol. The questions assessing alcohol included an open question 'Why have you stopped drinking alcohol?'

RESULTS

The patients who stopped drinking alcohol were older (median (min-max) 69 (36-90) vs 66 (23-95), p=0.011), had worse HAQ (1.00 (0-2.75) vs 0.50 (0-3.00), p<0.001), worse EQ5D (0.69 (-0.02-1.00) vs 0.76 (-0.58-1.00), p<0.001) worse PatGA (5 (0-10) vs 3 (0-10), p<0.001), more pain (5 (0-10) vs 3 (0-10), p<0.001) and more fatigue (6 (0-10) vs 4 (0-10), p<0.001 compared with patients drinking alcohol. The qualitative content analysis revealed five categories describing reasons for patients with RA to stop drinking alcohol: illness and treatment; health and well-being; work and family; faith and belief; and dependences and abuse.

CONCLUSIONS

The patients who had stopped drinking had worse physical functioning and higher levels in pain-related variables. Most stopped drinking due to their illness or a desire to improve health.

Real World Experience of Disease Activity in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis and Response to Treatment With Varios Biologic DMARDs

The current study investigate the disease activity and effectiveness of treatment in patients with RA on biological disease modifying antirheumatic drugs (bDMARDs) in combination with a conventional synthetic DMARD (csDMARD) and determine whether or not the benefits of different therapies were sustained over a follow up period of 1 year. 124 patients were selected with a mean age 55.26 ± 13, 18SD years, meeting the 1987 ACR and /or ACR/ EULAR (2010) classification criteria for Rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Patients were arranged according to treatment regimens: Tocilizumab (TCL) - 30 patients, Certolizumab (CZP) - 16, Golimumab (GOL) - 22, Etanercept (ETN) 20, Adalimumab (ADA) 20, Rituximab (RTX) - 16. Disease activities was the primary concern. Independent joint assessor evaluated 28 joints on baseline, 6th and 12th month's thereafter. C-reactive protein (CRP) was used to measure the inflammatory process. DAS28-CRP, clinical disease activity index (CDAI) and simplified disease activity index (SDAI) were calculated. On baseline all of the patients' groups had severe disease activity (mean DAS28-CRP > 5.2, mean CDAI > 22, mean SDAI > 26. It was noted that, during the 6th month follow-up period all of the treatment groups significantly decreased DAS28-CRP, CDAI, SDAI and reach moderate disease activity. After 6th and 12th months of treatment all of the groups on bDMARDs had significantly lower disease activity. The GOL group reach remission only according to DAS28-CRP: 2.49 ± 0.76, and low disease activity as measured by CDAI: 6.78 ± 4.51 and SDAI 7.80 ± 5.67. The other 5 groups after 12 months reach the level of low disease activity according to the three activity parameters: DAS28-CRP (TCL 3.07 ± 0.73, CZP 3.06 ± 0.65, ETN 2.85 ± 0.55, ADA 3.15 ± 0.82, RTX 2.90 ± 0.70), CDAI (TCL 9.80 ± 4.91, CZP - 9.33 ± 4.22, ETN 7.97 ± 3.80, ADA 10.00 ± 5.25, RTX 7.48 ± 2.99) and SDAI (TCL 10.45 ± 5.14, CZP 9.94 ± 4.43, ETN 9.03 ± 4.25, ADA 10.50 ± 5.61, RTX 8.08 ± 3.24). The therapy with different bDMARDs added to a csDMARD led to very similar results - a minimal disease activity and a state of remission in the GOL treatment group only as per DAS28-CRP.

Use of Auto-Injector for Methotrexate Subcutaneous Self-Injections: High Satisfaction Level and Good Compliance in SELF-I Study, a Randomized, Open-Label, Parallel Group Study

Introduction

The objective of the study was to compare compliance and acceptability of a new auto-injector (AI) versus syringe for administration of methotrexate (MTX) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods

We conducted a randomized, open-label, parallel group study comparing AI to pre-filled syringe (PFS). Adult patients with RA (ACR/EULAR 2010) receiving MTX (orally or by injection) for at least 3 months were allocated to AI or PFS for 6 months and then were allocated to AI for 6 further months. Two co-primary endpoints were defined at M6: percentage of patients with compliance at least 80%; change in functional capacity assessed by Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ). Secondary endpoints included quality of life (RaQoL), RA activity (DAS28), and acceptability. Local safety at injection site was assessed at each visit.

Results

Two-hundred and sixty-five patients were randomized. The main analysis was conducted on per protocol set (99 AI and 98 PFS). Compliance was 96.2% in AI and 98.9% in PFS. Good complier rates were 89.9% and 94.9%, thus a difference of − 5.0% (− 18.9%; 8.9%). HAQ remained stable in both groups. No difference was found on RaQoL, change in RA activity, and safety profile. Autonomy, acceptability, and patient satisfaction were better with AI, and patients having had the experience of both AI and PFS preferred AI (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Although this study did not demonstrate non-inferiority of AI versus PFS, compliance was excellent in the two groups, and AI, which was preferred by patients, is a valuable alternative to PFS for administration of MTX.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier, NCT02553018.

Funding

Nordic Pharma SAS.

Verification between Original and Biosimilar Therapeutic Antibody Infliximab Using nSMOL Coupled LC-MS Bioanalysis in Human Serum

Background:

Infliximab (IFX) is a chimeric therapeutic monoclonal antibody targeting tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα)-mediated inflammatory immune diseases. However, despite of an initial good clinical response, decrease in response to long-term treatment is a common observation.

Objective:

Recent studies suggest that IFX level in circulation has a correlation with clinical bioavailabil-ity. Therefore, the management of IFX dosage for individual manifestation by IFX monitoring may be valuable for the improvement of therapeutic response and outcomes.

Method:

In order to develop a broad IFX therapeutic monitoring in human serum, we have developed the validated IFX bioanalysis for RemicadeTM and its biosimilar product using our nano-surface and molecu-lar-orientation limited proteolysis (nSMOL) technology coupled with liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). The nSMOL chemistry has a unique property of Fab-selective prote-olysis, and makes it possible a global bioanalysis for many monoclonal antibodies.

Results:

The quantitation range of IFX in serum was from 0.293 to 300 μg/ml with good linearity. Quan-titation verification at the concentrations of 0.293, 0.879, 14.1 and 240 μg/ml was within 1.56-7.53% of precision and 98.9-111% of accuracy using H-chain signature peptide SINSATHYAESVK. Moreover, cross-verified bioanalysis of Remicade quantitation using biosimilar standard, and its opposite combina-tion, obtained an identical and inter-comparative results.

Conclusion:

The nSMOL strategy has the potential as a practical therapeutic monitoring technology in IFX therapeutic applications.

EULAR 'points to consider' for the conduction of workforce requirement studies in rheumatology

OBJECTIVE

Current methods used for forecasting workforce requirements in rheumatology are disparate, as are the parameters incorporated into workforce projection studies. The objective of these European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR points to consider (PTC) is to guide future workforce studies in adult rheumatology in order to produce valid and reliable manpower estimates.

METHODS

The EULAR Standardised Operating Procedures were followed. A multidisciplinary task force with experts including patients with rheumatic diseases from 11 EULAR countries and the USA was assembled. A systematic literature review (SLR) was conducted to retrieve workforce models in rheumatology and other medical fields. PTC were based on expert opinion informed by the SLR, followed by group discussions with consensus obtained through informal voting. The level of agreement with the PTC was voted anonymously.

RESULTS

A total of 10 PTC were formulated. The task force recommends models integrating supply (=workforce available in rheumatology), demand (=health services requested by the population) and need (=health services that are considered appropriate to serve the population). In general, projections of workforce requirements should consider all factors relevant for current and future workload in rheumatology inside and outside of direct patient care. Forecasts of workforce supply should consider demography and attrition of rheumatologists, as well as the effects of new developments in healthcare. Predictions of future need/demand should take demographic, sociocultural and epidemiological development of the population into account.

CONCLUSION

These EULAR-endorsed PTC will provide guidance on the methodology and the parameters to be applied in future national and international workforce requirement studies in rheumatology.

Workforce requirements in rheumatology: a systematic literature review informing the development of a workforce prediction risk of bias tool and the EULAR points to consider

OBJECTIVE

To summarise the available information on physician workforce modelling, to develop a rheumatology workforce prediction risk of bias tool and to apply it to existing studies in rheumatology.

METHODS

A systematic literature review (SLR) was performed in key electronic databases (1946-2017) comprising an update of an SLR in rheumatology and a hierarchical SLR in other medical fields. Data on the type of workforce prediction models and the factors considered in the models were extracted. Key general as well as specific need/demand and supply factors for workforce calculation in rheumatology were identified. The workforce prediction risk of bias tool was developed and applied to existing workforce studies in rheumatology.

RESULTS

In total, 14 studies in rheumatology and 10 studies in other medical fields were included. Studies used a variety of prediction models based on a heterogeneous set of need/demand and/or supply factors. Only two studies attempted empirical validation of the prediction quality of the model. Based on evidence and consensus, the newly developed risk of bias tool includes 21 factors (general, need/demand and supply). The majority of studies revealed high or moderate risk of bias for most of the factors.

CONCLUSIONS

The existing evidence on workforce prediction in rheumatology is scarce, heterogeneous and at moderate or high risk of bias. The new risk of bias tool should enable future evaluation of workforce prediction studies. This review informs the European League Against Rheumatism points to consider for the conduction of workforce requirement studies in rheumatology.

Abatacept in combination with methotrexate in Japanese biologic-naive patients with active rheumatoid arthritis: a randomised placebo-controlled phase IV study

Objectives

To evaluate efficacy and safety of abatacept+methotrexate (MTX) in biologic-naive, anticitrullinated protein antibody (ACPA)-positive Japanese patients with active rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and early erosion versus placebo+MTX.

Methods

In this phase IV, multicentre, double-blind study (NCT01758198), patients were randomised (1:1) to receive intravenous abatacept (~10 mg/kg) or placebo, plus MTX (≥6 mg/week). Primary efficacy objectives were to compare American College of Rheumatology 20 (ACR20) response rates at week 16 and mean change from baseline in van der Heijde-modified total Sharp score (vdH-mTSS) at week 24 between abatacept+MTX and placebo+MTX groups.

Results

Overall, 203 and 202 patients received abatacept+MTX and placebo+MTX, respectively. At week 16, ACR20 response rates were higher in the abatacept (75.4%) versus placebo group (27.7%; p<0.001). Mean change from baseline in vdH-mTSS at week 24 was 0.84 in the abatacept and 1.26 in the placebo group (p=0.017). Radiographic non-progression rates (change in vdH-mTSS≤smallest detectable change (1.9)) were 88.1% and 75.4% in abatacept and placebo groups, respectively. Adjusted mean change from baseline in Disease Activity Score 28 (C-reactive protein) (DAS28 (CRP)) at week 16 demonstrated a numerically greater reduction in the abatacept versus placebo group. Proportions of patients with DAS28 (CRP), Simplified Disease Activity Index and Clinical Disease Activity Index remission up to week 52 were higher in the abatacept versus placebo group. The abatacept safety profile was consistent with previous observations.

Conclusions

Compared with MTX alone, abatacept+MTX improved clinical symptoms and inhibited structural damage progression in ACPA-positive, Japanese patients with RA, early erosion and inadequate response to MTX.

The Clinical Value of Autoantibodies in Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a highly heterogeneous syndrome in terms of clinical presentation, progression, and response to therapy. In such a complicated context, the identification of disease-related biomarkers would be undoubtedly helpful in assisting tailored approaches for every patient. Despite remarkable efforts, however, progress in new biomarker development and validation is dramatically slow. At present, none of the candidate genetic, cellular, or molecular biomarker has yet surpassed the clinical value of RA-specific autoantibodies, including rheumatoid factor (RF) and anti-citrullinated protein autoantibodies (ACPA). Rather, recent years have witnessed significant advancements in our understanding of the multiple roles that RF and ACPA play in RA pathophysiology. This has helped clarifying the mechanistic basis of the clinical associations of autoantibodies in RA. In this short review, we will briefly summarize the effector functions of RF and ACPA, and analyse how autoantibodies may help subclassifying RA patients in terms of clinical presentation and response to therapy.