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Arnbak B, Jensen TS, Hendricks O, Østergaard M, Zejden A, Jurik AG, Manniche C. Prognostic value of the clinical and imaging arm of the ASAS criteria for progression of structural sacroiliac joint lesions. Mod Rheumatol 2024; 34:391-398. [PMID: 36508308 DOI: 10.1093/mr/roac154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Revised: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the prognostic value of the two arms of the Assessment of SpondyloArthritis international Society (ASAS) criteria regarding the progression of structural lesions in the sacroiliac joints (SIJs). METHODS Information on baseline fulfilment of the ASAS criteria and baseline and follow-up magnetic resonance imaging of the SIJ in 603 patients aged 18-40 years referred with low back pain to an outpatient spine were collected. Magnetic resonance imaging positivity was defined as bone marrow oedema (BMO) in two or more consecutive slices or two or more lesions in one slice, as described in the ASAS definition of sacroiliitis. RESULTS Of 71 participants fulfilling the ASAS criteria at baseline, 66 (93%) fulfilled the 'imaging arm' and 14 (20%) fulfilled the 'clinical arm'. The 'clinical arm' predicted the progression of erosions with an odds ratio of 55 (compared with not fulfilling the ASAS criteria), while the 'imaging arm' predicted the progression of erosions with an odds ratio of 8. Moreover, in 24% of the patients in the 'imaging arm', all having BMO at the SIJ at baseline, the BMO disappeared without neither erosions nor ankylosis emerging. CONCLUSION We found that the 'clinical arm' was a strong predictor for the progression of SIJ erosion, while the 'imaging arm' had a more modest prognostic value for structural progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bodil Arnbak
- Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
- Department of Radiology, Hospital Lillebaelt, Vejle, Denmark
| | - Tue Secher Jensen
- Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
- Research Department, Chiropractic Knowledge Hub, Odense, Denmark
- Diagnostic Centre - Imaging Section, Silkeborg Regional Hospital, Silkeborg, Denmark
| | - Oliver Hendricks
- Danish Hospital for Rheumatic Diseases, Soenderborg, Denmark
- Department of Regional Health Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Mikkel Østergaard
- Copenhagen Center for Arthritis Research, Center for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases, Centre of Head and Orthopedics, Rigshospitalet, Glostrup, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anna Zejden
- Department of Radiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Anne Grethe Jurik
- Department of Radiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Claus Manniche
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
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Ciurea A, Götschi A, Bräm R, Bürki K, Exer P, Andor M, Nissen MJ, Möller B, Hügle T, Rubbert-Roth A, Kyburz D, Distler O, Scherer A, Micheroli R. Early axial spondyloarthritis according to the ASAS consensus definition: characterisation of patients and effectiveness of a first TNF inhibitor in a large observational registry. RMD Open 2023; 9:e003455. [PMID: 38053462 DOI: 10.1136/rmdopen-2023-003455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To characterise the population fulfilling the Assessment of SpondyloArthritis international Society (ASAS) consensus definition of early axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) and to determine the effectiveness of a first tumour necrosis factor inhibitor (TNFi) in early versus established axSpA in a large observational registry. METHODS A total of 3064 patients with axSpA in the Swiss Clinical Quality Management registry with data on duration of axial symptoms were included (≤2 years=early axSpA, N=658; >2 years=established axSpA, N=2406). Drug retention was analysed in patients starting a first TNFi in early axSpA (N=250) versus established axSpA (N=874) with multiple-adjusted Cox proportional hazards models. Adjusted logistic regression analyses were used to determine the achievement of the ASAS criteria for 40% improvement (ASAS40) at 1 year. RESULTS Sex distribution, disease activity, impairments of function and health-related quality of life were comparable between patients with early and established axSpA. Patients with established disease were older, had more prevalent axial radiographical damage and had a higher impairment of mobility. A comparable TNFi retention was found in early versus established disease after adjustment for age, sex, human leucocyte antigen-B27 status, education, body mass index, smoking, elevated C reactive protein and sacroiliac inflammation on MRI (HR 1.05, 95% CI 0.78 to 1.42). The adjusted ASAS40 response was similar in the two groups (OR 1.09, 95% CI 0.67 to 1.78). Results were confirmed in the population fulfilling the ASAS classification criteria. CONCLUSION Considering the recent ASAS definition of early axSpA, TNFi effectiveness seems comparable in early versus established disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrian Ciurea
- Department of Rheumatology, Zurich University Hospital, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Andrea Götschi
- Swiss Clinical Quality Management Foundation, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - René Bräm
- Swiss Ankylosing Spondylitis Association, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Kristina Bürki
- Department of Rheumatology, Zurich University Hospital, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Pascale Exer
- Gemeinschaftspraxis Rheuma-Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Michael Andor
- Rheumatologie im Zürcher Oberland, Uster, Switzerland
| | - Michael J Nissen
- Department of Rheumatology, Geneva University Hospital, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Burkhard Möller
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Inselspital, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Hügle
- Department of Rheumatology, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Andrea Rubbert-Roth
- Department of Rheumatology, Cantonal Hospital St Gallen, St Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Diego Kyburz
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Oliver Distler
- Department of Rheumatology, Zurich University Hospital, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Almut Scherer
- Swiss Clinical Quality Management Foundation, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Raphael Micheroli
- Department of Rheumatology, Zurich University Hospital, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Jensen RK, Dissing KB, Jensen TS, Clausen SH, Arnbak B. The association between cervical degenerative MRI findings and self-reported neck pain, disability and headache: a cross-sectional exploratory study. Chiropr Man Therap 2023; 31:45. [PMID: 37821958 PMCID: PMC10568844 DOI: 10.1186/s12998-023-00517-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neck pain and headache are highly prevalent conditions and leading causes of disability worldwide. Although MRI is widely used in the management of these conditions, there is uncertainty about the clinical significance of cervical MRI findings in patients with neck pain or headache. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the association between cervical degenerative MRI findings and self-reported neck pain, neck disability, and headache. METHODS This study was a secondary analysis of a cohort of patients with low back pain aged 18-40 years recruited from a non-surgical outpatient spine clinic. The cervical MRI and outcome measures used in this analysis were collected at a four-year follow-up (2014-2017). Self-reported outcome measures included neck pain intensity, neck disability as measured by the Neck Disability Index, and headache as measured by a single NDI item. Cervical MRI findings included disc degeneration, disc contour changes, and vertebral endplate signal changes (VESC). Multivariable logistic regression analyses, adjusted for age and sex, were used to analyse the associations between MRI findings and neck pain, neck disability, and headache. RESULTS A total of 600 participants who underwent MRI and completed the relevant questionnaires at follow-up were included. The median age was 37 years (interquartile range 31-41) and 325 (54%) were female. Of the included participants, 181 (31%) had moderate or severe neck pain, 274 (59%) had moderate or severe neck disability, 193 (42%) reported headaches, and 211 (35%) had one or more cervical degenerative MRI findings. Cervical disc degeneration and disc contour changes were positively associated with moderate or severe neck pain with odds ratio 1.6 (95% CI 1.1-2.4) and 1.6 (1.1-2.3), respectively. VESC was associated with moderate or severe neck disability with odds ratio 3.3 (1.3-8.4). No statistically significant associations were found between the MRI findings assessed and headache. CONCLUSIONS In this cross-sectional exploratory study, we found that cervical disc degeneration and disc contour changes were associated with neck pain, and VESC was associated with neck disability. None of the MRI findings were associated with headache. The results suggest that cervical degenerative changes may contribute to the aetiology of neck symptoms, but the associations are modest and cannot guide clinical decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rikke K Jensen
- Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, Center for Muscle and Joint Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.
- Chiropractic Knowledge Hub, Odense, Denmark.
| | | | - Tue S Jensen
- Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, Center for Muscle and Joint Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging and University Clinic for Innovative Patient Pathways, Silkeborg Regional Hospital, Silkeborg, Denmark
| | - Stine H Clausen
- Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, Center for Muscle and Joint Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
- Department of Radiology, Hospital Lillebaelt, Vejle, Denmark
| | - Bodil Arnbak
- Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, Center for Muscle and Joint Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
- Department of Radiology, Hospital Lillebaelt, Vejle, Denmark
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Rodrigues-Manica S, Sepriano A, Ramiro S, Landewé R, Claudepierre P, Moltó A, Dougados M, van Lunteren M, van der Heijde D. Bone marrow edema in the sacroiliac joints is associated with the development of structural lesions at the same anatomical location over time in patients with axial spondyloarthritis. Semin Arthritis Rheum 2023; 61:152225. [PMID: 37263068 DOI: 10.1016/j.semarthrit.2023.152225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess whether the presence of bone marrow edema (BME) leads to the development of structural lesions at the same anatomical location of the sacroiliac joints (SIJ), and to investigate the association between BME patterns over time and structural lesions in patients with early axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA). METHODS Patients with axSpA from the DESIR cohort with ≥2 consecutive magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-SIJ were assessed at baseline, 2 and 5 years. MRI-SIJ images were divided into 8 quadrants. The association between BME and subsequent structural lesions (sclerosis, erosions, fatty lesions, and ankylosis) on MRI in the same quadrant was tested longitudinally. Additionally, patients were grouped according to the pattern of BME evolution across quadrants over time (no BME, sporadic, fluctuating, and persistent). The association between these patterns and 5-year imaging outcomes (eg: ≥5 erosions and/or fatty lesions on MRI-SIJ) was tested. RESULTS In total, 196 patients were included. BME in each quadrant was associated with sclerosis (OR:1.9 (95%CI: 1.1;3.4)), erosions (1.9 (1.5;2.5)) and fatty lesions (1.9 (1.4;2.6)). Ankylosis was uncommon. There was a gradient between increased level of inflammation and subsequent damage: compared to the 'no BME' pattern, the sporadic (OR (95% CI): 2.1 (1.0;4.5)), fluctuating (OR:5.6(2.2;14.4)) and persistent (OR:7.5(2.8;19.6)) patterns were associated with higher structural damage on MRI-SIJ at 5-years. CONCLUSIONS In early axSpA, inflammation on MRI-SIJ leads to damage at the quadrant level. The higher the exposure to inflammation across quadrants in the SIJs over time the higher the likelihood of subsequent structural damage, suggesting a cumulative effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Santiago Rodrigues-Manica
- Department of Rheumatology, Hospital Egas Moniz, Centro Hospitalar Lisboa Ocidental, Lisbon, Portugal; CEDOC, NOVA-Medical School, Lisbon, Portugal.
| | - Alexandre Sepriano
- CEDOC, NOVA-Medical School, Lisbon, Portugal; Department of Rheumatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Sofia Ramiro
- Department of Rheumatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands; Department of Rheumatology, Zuyderland Medical Center, Heerlen, The Netherlands; NOVA Medical School, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Robert Landewé
- Department of Rheumatology, Zuyderland Medical Center, Heerlen, The Netherlands; ARC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Pascal Claudepierre
- Hopital Henri Mondor, Universite Paris Est Creteil, Service de Rhumatologie, EA 7379 - EpidermE, AP-HP, Creteil, France
| | - Anna Moltó
- Rheumatology Department, Cochin Hospital, APHP, Paris, France; INSERM U-1153, CRESS, Université Paris-Cité, Paris, France
| | - Maxime Dougados
- Rheumatology Department, Cochin Hospital, APHP, Paris, France; INSERM U-1153, CRESS, Université Paris-Cité, Paris, France
| | - Miranda van Lunteren
- Department of Rheumatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
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Can radiomics replace the SPARCC scoring system in evaluating bone marrow edema of sacroiliac joints in patients with axial spondyloarthritis? Clin Rheumatol 2023; 42:1675-1682. [PMID: 36795334 DOI: 10.1007/s10067-023-06543-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Revised: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To develop an objective and efficient method based on radiomics to evaluate bone marrow edema (BMO) of sacroiliac joints (SIJs) by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in patients with axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) and to compare with the Spondyloarthritis Research Consortium of Canada (SPARCC) scoring system. METHODS From September 2013 to March 2022, patients with axSpA who underwent 3.0T SIJ-MRI were included and were randomly divided into training and validation cohorts at a ratio of 7:3. The optimal radiomics features selected from the SIJ-MRI in the training cohort were included to generate the radiomics model. The performance of the model was evaluated by ROC analysis and decision curve analysis (DCA). Rad scores were calculated using the radiomics model. The responsiveness was compared for Rad scores and SPARCC scores. We also assessed the correlation between the Rad score and SPARCC score. RESULTS A total of 558 patients were finally included. The radiomics model showed favorable discrimination of a SPARCC score <2 or ≥2 both in the training (AUC, 0.90; 95% CI: 0.87-0.93) and validation cohorts (AUC, 0.90; 95% CI, 0.86-0.95). DCA confirmed that the model was clinically useful. Rad score showed higher responsiveness to treatment-related change than SPARCC score. Furthermore, a significant correlation was noted between the Rad score and SPARCC score when scoring the status of BMO (rs=0.80, P < 0.001), and a strong correlation was noted when scoring the change in BMO (r=0.70, P < 0.001). CONCLUSION The study proposed a radiomics model to accurately quantify the BMO of SIJs in patients with axSpA, providing an alternative to the SPARCC scoring system. Key Points • The Rad score is an index with high validity for the objective and quantitative evaluation of bone marrow edema (BMO) of the sacroiliac joints in axial spondyloarthritis. • The Rad score is a promising tool to monitor the change of BMO upon treatment.
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Braun J. Significance of structural changes in the axial skeleton in patients with axial spondyloarthritis: how important are lesions in the sacroiliac joint? RMD Open 2022; 8:e002822. [PMID: 36517187 PMCID: PMC9756280 DOI: 10.1136/rmdopen-2022-002822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Inflammatory back pain (IBP) is a characteristic clinical symptom of patients with axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) that is caused by inflammation in the axial skeleton. In early disease stages the sacroiliac joints (SIJ) are most often affected, the spine usually at later stages. In many but clearly not all cases of axSpA new bone formation in form of syndesmophytes and ankylosis occur in the further course of the disease. Function and mobility may be impaired by both, inflammation and structural changes. In clinical trials outcome parameters most often used refer to pain, disease activity, function, mobility and global health but many researchers are also interested in radiographic progression in the axial skeleton of patients with axSpA. This viewpoint discusses the relevance of structural changes in the SIJ in comparison to the spine and in relation to functional outcomes and mobility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juergen Braun
- Rheumazentrum Ruhrgebiet, Ruhr Universität Bochum, Herne, NRW, Germany
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7
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Kiil RM, Arnbak BAM, Zejden A, Schiøttz-Christensen B, Hendricks O, Jurik AG. Pregnancy-related sacroiliac joint findings in females with low back pain: a four-year magnetic resonance imaging follow-up study. Acta Radiol 2022; 63:775-784. [PMID: 34000822 DOI: 10.1177/02841851211017108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pregnancy-related pain may be associated with sacroiliac joint (SIJ) changes, detectable by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). PURPOSE To analyze the prevalence and course of SIJ MRI and clinical findings in women referred with low back pain and relate these to pregnancy. MATERIAL AND METHODS A retrospective follow-up study from a longitudinally collected cohort comprising 328 women. RESULTS Women reporting debut of pain in relation to a pregnancy (PP group) tended to have a higher baseline prevalence of all investigated MRI findings, cumulated positive SIJ tests, and a potential fulfilment of the spondyloarthritis diagnosis compared to remainders. The prevalence of subchondral bone marrow edema (BME), any SIJ MRI finding, and potential fulfilment of the spondyloarthritis diagnosis were significantly higher in the PP group compared to women who had not been pregnant. In the total study group, the prevalence of ≥1 MRI finding increased over the four-year study period from 34% to 47% (P<0.001), driven by increasing prevalence of BME (25% to 32%; P=0.008) and fatty marrow deposition (FMD) (20% to 25%; P=0.020). In addition, the BME volume score increased. Over time, the PP group had persisting high prevalence of buttock pain and total MRI findings and their FMD volume score increased, but there were no between-group differences in MRI variables at follow-up. CONCLUSION Overall, the prevalence of MRI findings increased over time. Although the PP group had different clinical and SIJ MRI characteristics cross-sectional at baseline compared to remainders, longitudinal analyses revealed that these diminished over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosa Marie Kiil
- Department of Radiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus N, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Bodil Al-Mashhadi Arnbak
- Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, Odense M, Denmark
- Department of Radiology, Hospital Lillebaelt, Vejle, Denmark
| | - Anna Zejden
- Department of Radiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Berit Schiøttz-Christensen
- Research Department, Spine Centre of Southern Denmark, Hospital Lillebaelt, Middelfart, Denmark
- Institute of Regional Health Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense C, Denmark
| | - Oliver Hendricks
- Institute of Regional Health Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense C, Denmark
- Danish Hospital for Rheumatic Diseases, Sønderborg, Denmark
| | - Anne Grethe Jurik
- Department of Radiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus N, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus N, Denmark
- Institute of Regional Health Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense C, Denmark
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Braun J, Kiltz U, Baraliakos X. Significance of structural changes in the sacroiliac joints of patients with axial spondyloarthritis detected by MRI related to patients symptoms and functioning. Ann Rheum Dis 2021; 81:11-14. [PMID: 34711586 DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2021-221406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) is a chronic inflammatory rheumatic disease that manifests primarily in the axial skeleton, initially mostly in the sacroiliac joints (SIJ), usually later spreading to the spine. The disease is characterised by inflammation and new bone formation which are mainly assessed by conventional radiography (CR) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Tumour necrosis factor inhibitors (TNFi) and interleukin-17 antagonists have been shown to be efficacious and efficient in patients with axSpA. This treatment seems to also inhibit structural damage, for example, retard radiographic progression. Indeed, a reduction of new bone formation in the spine, as assessed by CR, has been reported to occur after at least 2 years of therapy with TNFi. Recently, a reduction of erosions and ankylosis in the SIJ has also been observed in axSpA patients treated with etanercept and filgotinib. In this narrative review, we discuss the limited significance of such findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juergen Braun
- Rheumazentrum Ruhrgebiet, Ruhr Universität Bochum, Herne, Germany
| | - Uta Kiltz
- Rheumazentrum Ruhrgebiet, Ruhr Universität Bochum, Herne, Germany
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Hayward RJ, Machado PM. Classification Criteria in Axial Spondyloarthritis: What Have We Learned; Where Are We Going? Rheum Dis Clin North Am 2021; 46:259-274. [PMID: 32340700 DOI: 10.1016/j.rdc.2020.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Spondyloarthritis (SpA) is a chronic inflammatory condition that can have a predominately peripheral or axial presentation. Axial SpA (axSpA) affects the axial skeleton with either radiographic (r-axSpA) or nonradiographic (nr-axSpA) changes. Radiographic changes are a late disease feature and earlier disease stages can be identified by incorporating other imaging methods. The diagnosis of axSpA is a clinical diagnosis and classification criteria are not aimed to be diagnostic tools. The split between r-axSpA and nr-axSpA is artificial and we should move toward the unifying concept of axSpA. Our understanding of genetics, biomarkers, and immunopathophenotypes will drive further refinement of classification criteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rhys J Hayward
- Department of Rheumatology, Northwick Park Hospital, London North West University Healthcare NHS Trust, Watford Road, Harrow, Middlesex HA1 3UJ, London, UK; Department of Rheumatology, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, 3rd Floor, 250 Euston Road, NW1 2PG, London, UK
| | - Pedro M Machado
- Department of Rheumatology, Northwick Park Hospital, London North West University Healthcare NHS Trust, Watford Road, Harrow, Middlesex HA1 3UJ, London, UK; Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, University College London, 1st Floor, Russell Square House, 10-12 Russell Square, WC1B 5EH, London, UK; Centre for Rheumatology, University College London, Room 415, 4th Floor, Rayne Institute, 5 University St, Bloomsbury, London WC1E 6JF.
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10
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Kiil RM, Mistegaard CE, Jurik AG, Christiansen AA, Hendricks O, Schiøttz-Christensen B, Loft AG. Diagnosing axial spondyloarthritis by multidiciplinary team conference at 3.5 years' follow-up in a cohort of patients with disease features according to the ASAS criteria. Scand J Rheumatol 2021; 51:291-299. [PMID: 34263690 DOI: 10.1080/03009742.2021.1933584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES During the past two decades, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has increasingly been used diagnostically in axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA), and in 2009 MRI was introduced in the Assessment of SpondyloArthritis Society (ASAS) classification criteria. In clinical practice, there is a risk of overdiagnosis if MRI findings are not related to clinical and biochemical findings. The aim of this study was to provide an estimate of the prevalence of axSpA in a cohort of clinical patients with low back pain and findings suggestive of axSpA according to ASAS through consensus diagnosis at a multi-disciplinary team (MDT) conference, and to describe the performance of the features included in the ASAS criteria. METHOD Consensus diagnoses of axSpA at MDT conferences were retrospectively established at 3.5 years' follow-up in a cohort of 84 patients, initially referred with disease features according to the ASAS criteria. Patients were examined clinically regarding spondyloarthritis features, and biochemical tests and MRI of the sacroiliac joints and entire spine were performed at baseline and after a mean of 3.5 years. RESULTS According to the MDT consensus, 25 patients (30%) of the total cohort had axSpA at follow-up; 40% of individuals who fulfilled the ASAS criteria at baseline had axSpA, and 37% at follow-up; 96% of axSpA patients according to the MDT consensus met the ASAS criteria at baseline and 92% at follow-up. CONCLUSION Approximately one-third of the included patients had axSpA when evaluated at the MDT conference. The ASAS criteria had low predictive value, but high sensitivity at both baseline and follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- R M Kiil
- Department of Radiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.,Institute of Regional Health Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - C E Mistegaard
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.,Institute of Regional Health Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.,Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - A G Jurik
- Department of Radiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.,Institute of Regional Health Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - A A Christiansen
- Institute of Regional Health Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.,Danish Hospital for Rheumatic Diseases, Sønderborg, Denmark
| | - O Hendricks
- Institute of Regional Health Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.,Danish Hospital for Rheumatic Diseases, Sønderborg, Denmark
| | - B Schiøttz-Christensen
- Institute of Regional Health Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.,Research Department, Spine Centre of Southern Denmark, Hospital Lillebaelt, Middelfart, Denmark
| | - A G Loft
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.,Institute of Regional Health Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.,Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
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11
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Imaging in Axial Spondyloarthritis: What is Relevant for Diagnosis in Daily Practice? Curr Rheumatol Rep 2021; 23:66. [PMID: 34218356 DOI: 10.1007/s11926-021-01030-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/22/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To explore how imaging may assist diagnosing axial spondyloarthritis in rheumatology practice. RECENT FINDINGS A diagnosis of axial spondyloarthritis is based on pattern recognition by synthesizing clinical, laboratory, and imaging findings. In health care settings providing low threshold access to advanced imaging, sacroiliac joint MRI is the preferred imaging modality in clinically suspected axial spondyloarthritis. In daily routine, the optimum protocol to assess suspected inflammatory back pain combines sacroiliac joint and spine MRI fitting a 30-min slot. Contextual assessment of concomitant structural and active MRI lesions is key to enhance diagnostic utility. In women with postpartum back pain suggestive of axial spondyloarthritis, recent reports advocate waiting 6-12 months after delivery before acquiring sacroiliac joint MRI. Major unmet needs are consistent MRI protocols, standardized training modules on how to evaluate axial MRI, and timely dissemination of imaging advances into mainstream practice both in rheumatology and in radiology. In rheumatology practice, MRI has become indispensable to help diagnose early axial spondyloarthritis. However, major gaps in training and knowledge transfer to daily care need to be closed.
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Seven S, Østergaard M, Morsel-Carlsen L, Sørensen IJ, Bonde B, Thamsborg G, Lykkegaard JJ, Pedersen SJ. Anatomic Distribution of Sacroiliac Joint Lesions on Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Patients With Axial Spondyloarthritis and Control Subjects: A Prospective Cross‐Sectional Study, Including Postpartum Women, Patients With Disc Herniation, Cleaning Staff, Runners, and Healthy Individuals. Arthritis Care Res (Hoboken) 2021; 73:742-754. [DOI: 10.1002/acr.24473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Sengül Seven
- Copenhagen Center for Arthritis Research Center for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases Center of Head and Orthopedics, Rigshospitalet, Glostrup, and University of Copenhagen Copenhagen Denmark
| | - Mikkel Østergaard
- Copenhagen Center for Arthritis Research Center for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases Center of Head and Orthopedics, Rigshospitalet, Glostrup, and University of Copenhagen Copenhagen Denmark
| | | | - Inge J. Sørensen
- Copenhagen Center for Arthritis Research Center for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases Center of Head and Orthopedics Rigshospitalet Glostrup Denmark
| | - Birthe Bonde
- The Birthe Bonde Clinic of Physiotherapy Copenhagen Denmark
| | - Gorm Thamsborg
- Copenhagen Center for Arthritis Research Center for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases Center of Head and Orthopedics Rigshospitalet Glostrup Denmark
| | - Jens J. Lykkegaard
- Copenhagen Center for Arthritis Research Center for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases Center of Head and Orthopedics Rigshospitalet Glostrup Denmark
| | - Susanne J. Pedersen
- Copenhagen Center for Arthritis Research Center for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases Center of Head and Orthopedics, Rigshospitalet, Glostrup, and University of Copenhagen Copenhagen Denmark
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW MRI has, as the only imaging modality, the ability to visualize both the inflammatory and destructive aspects of sacroiliitis and is a crucial element in the diagnosis and classification of axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA). However, the MRI appearance of several potential differential diagnoses may resemble axSpA sacroiliitis. RECENT FINDINGS The appearances of sacroiliac joint (SIJ) MRIs of various diseased and healthy populations have recently been intensively studied. BME, the key requirement in the Assessment of Spondyloarthritis international Society (ASAS) definition of a 'MRI positive of sacroiliitis' may also be found in degenerative disease, athletes and healthy persons, and, particularly, postpartum women. Certain pattern of BME (high extent, large depth from articular surface, close relation to other lesion types) as well as the presence of structural lesions, particularly bone erosion, backfill or ankylosis increase the likelihood/specificity of being axSpA. Furthermore, old and novel MRI approaches to best distinguish the sacroiliitis of early axSpA from differential diagnoses have recently been tested and compared. SUMMARY Significant new and clinically relevant knowledge has been gained, but further research is still needed to optimally distinguish what is and what isn't sacroiliitis.
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