Ultrasound characterization of cutaneous ulcers in systemic sclerosis

Recent advances in non-invasive imaging of systemic sclerosis-related digital ulcers

Digital ulcers are a major source of pain and disability in patients with systemic sclerosis. Current treatments are not ideal, yet drug development for digital ulcers is hampered by a lack of objective outcome measures to facilitate clinical trials. Advances in non-invasive imaging could provide a way forward. This review article first describes the rationale for non-invasive imaging of digital ulcers in both clinical practice and research. In clinical practice, magnetic resonance imaging allows early diagnosis of underlying osteomyelitis, and smartphone imaging allows early (remote) identification of digital ulcers. In research, non-invasive imaging provides new insights into pathophysiology, as well as the ability to measure precisely digital ulcer surface area and volume. The imaging techniques discussed include mobile phone photography, ultrasound, laser Doppler methods and emerging technologies (multispectral imaging and polarisation-sensitive optical coherence tomography). Between them, these methods hold promise as outcome measures for early and later phase trials, but first require full validation.

Clinicians' perspectives concerning treatment initiation and escalation strategies for digital ulcers in patients with systemic sclerosis

Objectives

Digital ulcers (DUs) are a major cause of pain and disability in systemic sclerosis (SSc) patients and remain a major treatment challenge. Our aim was to explore clinicians' perspectives towards treatment initiation and escalation, akin to a 'Treat to Target' (T2T) strategy.

Methods

SSc clinicians were invited to participate in an online survey.

Results

A total of 173 responses (75% rheumatologists) were obtained from 33 countries. When initiating a change in oral drug therapy for SSc-DUs, most (80%) respondents would consider adding new medication to existing treatment, and 50% would increase existing treatment dose. Time to assess the impact of treatment change varied considerably, with around half (43.6%) waiting 1 month. Endothelin receptor antagonists, phosphodiesterase type-5 inhibitors and prostanoids were considered most efficacious for DU prevention, with good perceived efficacy from calcium channel blockers and moderate benefit from anti-platelet agents and immunosuppression. Side effects (e.g. headache and peripheral oedema) are perceived to be a significant issue with oral vasodilatory/vasoactive therapies in many patients. The highest rated T2T targets were (1) complete absence of new/recurrent DUs (63%), (2) reduction >50% in the number of DU recurrence (52%) and (3) reduction in DU healing time (37%) and reduction in DU pain >50% (37%). The most frequent reasons for hospitalisation were to administer intravenous treatment (91%) and DU complications (87%). Surgery is reserved for the threatened digit (e.g. gangrene), underlying calcinosis and failure of medical therapy.

Conclusion

Significant heterogeneity currently exists concerning treatment initiation and escalation for SSc-DUs, potentially amenable to a T2T strategy.

Role of Color Doppler Ultrasound in Cutaneous Inflammatory Conditions

Inflammatory cutaneous diseases can be challenging to diagnose and manage. Nowadays, the anatomical information provided by ultrasound is critical for detecting subclinical alterations and assessing the severity and activity of these conditions. Many of these entities can be clinically observed in dermatology and other specialties, such as rheumatology, plastic surgery, ophthalmology, and otolaryngology, among others. We review the ultrasonographic patterns of the most common inflammatory cutaneous conditions. In several cases, such as hidradenitis suppurativa, acne, and morphea, there are ultrasonographic staging systems of severity or activity that are pivotal in the management of these diseases. The early ultrasonographic diagnosis of these entities implies a proper management of the patients and, therefore, improve their quality of life. Thus, knowledge of the current use of ultrasound in this field seems essential.

Lupus Erythematosus Profundus with Multiple Overlying Cutaneous Ulcerations: A Rare Case

Lupus erythematosus profundus (LEP) is a rare subset of chronic cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CCLE), with a reported incidence of 1-3% in all LE cases. The most common cutaneous clinical presentation includes indurated plaques or subcutaneous nodules with an overlying normal skin. The clinical findings range from skin redness to features of CCLE, such as scaling, follicular plugging, and atrophy. Ulceration is rare and occurs in 28% of all LEP cases. We present a case report of LEP with multiple cutaneous ulcers on the right cheek and scalp accompanied by cicatricial alopecia. No other systemic manifestations were noted. Histopathological examination revealed periadipocyte, perivascular, and perivascular infiltration of lymphocytes, eosinophils, and plasma cells, supporting the diagnosis of LEP. The topical treatments given to the patient were sunscreen, 2% mupirocin cream, and wound dressing with dialkyl carbamoyl chloride (DACC). The patient was also treated systemically with oral corticosteroids and hydroxychloroquine. Clinical improvements were observed in the 3rd month of follow-up, and ulcer healing resulted in atrophic scars and fading erythematous macules. LEP is seldom associated with systemic or discoid lupus erythematosus. This occurs twice as frequently as a distinct entity does. Diagnosis accuracy plays an important role in determining the appropriate wound care, topical, and systemic treatments for LEP patients with multiple overlying cutaneous ulcerations.

Color Doppler Ultrasound Assessment of Subclinical Activity With Scoring of Morphea

BACKGROUND

Detection of activity in morphea is paramount for adequately managing the disease. Subclinical ultrasound involvement on inactive lesions or healthy skin areas adjacent to morphea has not been described to date.

OBJECTIVES

The study aimed to detect morphea's subclinical activity by Color Doppler ultrasound not identified with the clinical scorings.

MATERIALS & METHODS

This cross-sectional retrospective study was done from January 2014 to July 2019 in patients with a clinicopathological diagnosis of morphea. The modified Localized Scleroderma Skin Severity Index (mLoSSI) and The Ultrasound Morphea Activity Score (US-MAS) were used to correlate clinical and subclinical activity.

RESULTS

A total of 36 patients met the inclusion criteria. 54% of cases presented subclinical activity in areas adjacent to the clinically active lesion, 23% in nonadjacent regions, and 23% demonstrated activity at a clinically inactive lesion site.100% of patients with morphea "en coup de sabre" involving the frontal region of the face concomitantly presented both subclinical activities of morphea on the frontal facial region and the scalp following the same axis.A positive relationship was observed between the degree of clinical activity measured by mLoSSI and US-MAS scoring.The main limitations of our study were the low number of patients and the inability to detect alterations < 0.1 mm.

CONCLUSIONS

Subclinical activity is frequent in morphea, can extend beyond the lesional areas, including apparently noninvolved adjacent and distant corporal regions, and can be detected by color Doppler ultrasound.

Key Points to Select a Device for Dermatologic Ultrasound

What points to consider when selecting a device for practicing dermatologic ultrasound is an excellent question. After we met the requisites published in the guidelines for practicing dermatologic ultrasound, it is necessary to consider the main objective of the use because it is not the same to be focused mostly on the avoidance of the puncture of important facial vessels such as the case of injectors of cosmetic fillers in comparison to the use of operators that need to deal with the diagnosis and monitoring of a wide range of dermatologic pathologies. Currently, a broad variety of ultrasound devices meets the minimum requirements for practicing these examinations in the market. Thus, small, portable, and high-end devices may present advantages and limitations that must be balanced according to the primary purposes and the budget. Moreover, the shape and footprint of the probes can make difficult or facilitate a dermatologic procedure. Other points to consider are the type of storage and the need for technical service. In summary, there are key points that we need to consider when we select a dermatologic ultrasound device in dermatology or aesthetics.

Novel therapies and innovation for systemic sclerosis skin ulceration

Skin ulceration is an important cause of morbidity in systemic sclerosis and can occur at anytime during disease progression. Incident disease cohorts are important for understanding whether skin ulceration represents active vasculopathy versus resultant damage. Biomarkers for skin ulcer pathogenesis, both serum and imaging, are under investigation to elucidate the functional consequences of the structural abnormalities. Novel therapeutics for the treatment of vasculopathy benefit from reliable biomarkers able to predict the disease evolution remains an important unmet need. Nonetheless, a diagnostic approach that captures early skin ulceration and treatments that restore vascular and immune homeostasis is critical for effective systemic sclerosis (SSc) vasculopathy management.

Imaging techniques for assessment of vascular involvement in systemic sclerosis

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Vascular assessment in systemic sclerosis (SSc) is included in classification criteria for this disease, thus routinely used in the evaluation of patients in which this diagnosis is being considered. In this review, imaging techniques for assessment of vascular involvement in SSc hands and skin are discussed.

RECENT FINDINGS

Longitudinal use of imaging techniques has important implications for understanding the progressive vasculopathy and fibrotic transition in SSc. Nailfold and oral capillaroscopy as well as laser speckle contrast analysis are established techniques for vascular functional assessment, but longitudinal use is challenged by equipment costs and clinical time constraints. Ultrasound techniques are well described but require technical training. Advances in mobile infrared thermography and optical coherence tomography could potentially provide a point-of-care, quantitative outcome measure in clinical trials and practice.

SUMMARY

The equipment cost, technical training, data standardization, and invasiveness of vascular assessment techniques that quantify morphological (microangiopathy) and functional (blood flow reduction) are critical for implementation into SSc clinical trials and practice to understand progressive vasculopathy, such as wound development.

Updated Role of High-frequency Ultrasound in Assessing Dermatological Manifestations in Autoimmune Skin Diseases

Autoimmune skin diseases are a group of disorders that arise due to the dysregulated immune system attacking self-antigens, causing multiple tissue and organ lesions. With disease progression, the physical and psychological health of patients may be seriously damaged. High-frequency ultrasound is non-invasive, reproducible, and suitable for visualizing the fine structure of external organs. The usage of high-frequency ultrasound has increased in recent years in the auxiliary diagnosis and monitoring of various skin diseases; it serves as a promising tool for dermatological disease assessment. This review summarizes the characteristics of high-frequency ultrasound imaging in common autoimmune skin diseases, including systemic lupus erythematosus, scleroderma, psoriasis, dermatomyositis, and pemphigus/pemphigoid. The objective of this review is to provide new ideas and strategies for dermatologists to diagnose and track the prognosis of autoimmune skin diseases.

Skin sonography in children: a review

Skin lesions are not uncommon in children, and most of them are benign. However, they can be a matter of concern. Although in most cases the diagnosis can be suspected based on clinical history and physical examination, in some cases clinical findings are nonspecific. High-frequency color Doppler US is a noninvasive technique that can play a relevant role in these cases and give important anatomical information for final clinical management. US can be helpful to avoid unnecessary surgery, plan a surgical excision and avoid advanced imaging studies such as MRI and CT, which have a lower resolution for the skin. Different lesions can look similar on US, and clinical correlation is always important. The purpose of this article is to show a variety of skin lesions that occur in children, emphasizing clinical-sonographic correlation, and to familiarize pediatric radiologists with the US technique and sonographic appearance of common skin lesions in children.

The Emerging Era of Interventional Imaging in Rheumatology: An Overview During the Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) Pandemic

Imaging has long been taking its place in the diagnosis, monitor, and prognosis of rheumatic diseases. It plays a vital role in the appraisal of treatment. Key progress in the clinical practice of rheumatology is the innovation of advanced imaging modalities; such as musculoskeletal ultrasound (MSUS), computerized tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). These modalities introduced a promising noninvasive method for visualizing bone and soft tissues to enable an improved diagnosis. The use of MSUS in rheumatology is considered a landmark in the evolution of the specialty and its ease of use and many applications in rheumatic diseases make it a forerunner instrument in the practice. The use of MSUS among rheumatologists must parallel the development rate of the excellence revealed in the specialty. Moreover, innovative interventional imaging in rheumatology (III-R) is gaining fame and key roles in the near future for a comprehensive management of rheumatic diseases with precision. This review article throws light on the emergence of these robust innovations that may reshape the guidelines and practice in rheumatology, in particular, efforts to enhance best practice during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic are endorsed.

The Value of High-Resolution Ultrasound Combined with Shear-Wave Elastography under Artificial Intelligence Algorithm in Quantitative Evaluation of Skin Thickness in Localized Scleroderma

The aim of this study was to explore the value of high-resolution ultrasound combined with shear-wave elastography (SWE) in measuring skin thickness in patients with localized scleroderma (LS). Fifty patients with LS diagnosed by pathology in the hospital were selected as the research object, with a total of 96 lesions. Healthy people (50 cases) in the same period were selected as the control group. The skin thickness of the abdomen, chest, and left finger of the two groups was compared. The traditional nonlocal means (NLM) algorithm was improved by changing the Euclidean distance and introducing a cosine function, which was applied to the ultrasonic imaging intelligent diagnosis of patients with localized scleroderma. SWE imaging was evaluated, and the results demonstrated that LS lesion edema stage accounted for 7.29%, hardening stage occupied 43.75%, and the proportion of atrophy stage reached 48.96%. When the size of shell was 1 mm, maximum elastic modulus (E max) was 0.984, mean of elastic modulus (Emean) was 0.926, and electro-static discharge (Esd) was 0.965. When the size of shell was 2 mm, the elastic moduli around lesions were as follows: Emax was 0.998, Emean was 0.968, and Esd was 0.997. By comparing the skin thickness of the abdomen, chest, and left finger, it was found that there was a significant difference between the LS group and the control group (P < 0.05). When the shell was 2 mm, the effect of sensitivity specificity on SWE imaging was better than that when the shell was 1 mm. In summary, the improved NLM algorithm showed excellent denoising effects on the ultrasonic images of LS patients. Besides, it could assist clinicians in ultrasonic imaging diagnosis for LS patients and effectively improve the diagnostic accuracy of diseases.

Practical applications of ultrasound in dermatology

Ultrasound has evolved in dermatology from an experimental phase to a daily practice imaging technique. Its several advantages include its safety, good balance between penetration and resolution, high definition, and the detection of blood flow in real time. Its applications are growing and include the support of the diagnosis and extent in all axes, including depth, vascularity patterns, staging, and follow up of multiple cutaneous diseases-benign cutaneous tumors, vascular anomalies, nail lesions, skin cancer, inflammatory cutaneous diseases, and aesthetics complications.

Raynaud's phenomenon and digital ulcers: advances in evaluation and management

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The aim of this review is to give an update on advances in evaluation and management of systemic sclerosis (SSc)-related Raynaud's phenomenon and digital ulceration, focusing on reports from the last 18 months. The increasing recognition of the huge impact of Raynaud's phenomenon and of digital ulceration on the everyday lives of patients with SSc has sparked enthusiasm internationally to develop better outcome measures and better treatments, and so a review is timely.

RECENT FINDINGS

There have been recent advances in the development of patient reported outcome instruments [e.g. the Hand Disability in Systemic Sclerosis-Digital Ulcers (HDISS-DU) instrument] and also in noninvasive imaging techniques, including thermography and laser Doppler methods. Improved outcome measures will facilitate future clinical trials, both early phase proof-of-concept and later phase trials. New insights have been gained into mechanisms of action and methods of administration of 'conventional' therapies, for example phosphodiesterase inhibitors and intravenous prostanoids. New treatment approaches are being investigated, including topical and procedural therapies.

SUMMARY

Clinicians can look forward to seeing these advances translating into clinical benefit over the next 5 years. To help ensure this, they should strive whenever possible to recruit patients with SSc-related digital vasculopathy into observational studies and clinical trials.

Overview of Ultrasound Imaging Applications in Dermatology

Complete visualization of lesions is critical for the accurate diagnosis and management of dermatological diseases. Currently, the most readily available technologies used by dermatologists include dermoscopy and photography. Nevertheless, ultrasound has emerged as a useful non-invasive modality in dermatology, which can be added to the clinical examination supporting an early and more accurate diagnosis. Moreover, there are significant technological advances in recent years, such as the development of handheld devices and ultra-high frequency probes that have expanded the integration of ultrasound into daily dermatology practice. In this article, we reviewed the most common applications of ultrasound in the field of dermatology.

Assessment of Hair Density and Sub-epidermal Tissue Thickness in Burn Scars Using High-Definition Ultrasound Imaging

Burn scars show significant differences in structure, pigment, and hair density/sparsity from unburned skin, yet no formal documentation of these changes can be found in the literature. Evaluation of these differences is essential to assessing future intervention outcomes. The study was a prospective controlled clinical trial. Included were 19 adult burn survivors (18-63 years old, average age 47; 15 male, 4 female, 14 Caucasian, 2 African American, 1 Hispanic; 11 flame burns, 5 scald burns, 2 grease burns and 1 electrical burn, 2%-60% TBSA) with conspicuous, mature scars. All study subjects had either skin-grafted or nongrafted scars, as well as healthy skin in the same body area, to control for intraindividual variability. All scars were at least 9 months old and at a minimum 2 × 2 cm2 in size. On each individual, at least one nongrafted scar or one grafted scar and healthy skin was imaged with a high-definition ultrasound device (Longport, Inc., Glen Mills, PA, 35MHz probe, 1500 m/s). Vancouver scar scale was assessed. Although scarred skin had significantly fewer follicles than healthy skin in both grafted (P < .0001) and un-grafted sites (P = .0090), there were even significantly fewer follicles in grafted scars than un-grafted scars (P = .0095). In thickness of the sub-epidermal layer, there was no difference between grafted and un-grafted scars (P = .1900). Both kinds of scars had a significantly thicker sub-epidermal layer than healthy skin (P = .0010). Vancouver scar scale was 7.4 for grafted and 4.6 for nongrafted scars with grafted flame burn scars ranging higher than all others (5-11). There was no discomfort during the imaging, and no adverse events occurred during the study period. Our study demonstrates two clear morphologic differences between scars and healthy skin: thickness of the sub-epidermal layer and hair follicle density. Grafted burn scars were shown to contain fewer hair follicles than un-grafted scars.

The role of ultrasound in systemic sclerosis: On the cutting edge to foster clinical and research advancement

Ultrasound has been widely explored in systemic sclerosis in the clinical and research settings. Ultrasound allows a non-invasive and ionising radiation-free 'window' into this complex disease and is well-suited to repeated examinations. Ultrasound provides novel insights into the pathogenesis and measurement of disease in systemic sclerosis, including early (preclinical) internal organ involvement. The purpose of this review is to describe the role of ultrasound to foster clinical and research advancements in systemic sclerosis relating to (1) musculoskeletal, (2) digital ulcer, (3) lung disease and (4) skin disease. We also highlight unmet needs which much be addressed for ultrasound to assume a central role in systemic sclerosis clinical care and research.

A Practical Approach to the Management of Digital Ulcers in Patients With Systemic Sclerosis: A Narrative Review

Importance

Digital ulcers (DUs) occurring on the fingers in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc) are associated with substantial pain and disability and are often challenging to treat. However, careful clinical assessment and prompt intervention (wound bed management and systemic pharmacologic treatment) may modify the clinical course.

Objectives

To provide a practical approach to the assessment and management of SSc-DUs and highlight unmet needs and research priorities.

Evidence Review

A narrative review of the extant literature was undertaken to provide a broad overview of current knowledge and augmented by expert opinion.

Findings

Half of the patients with SSc have a history of DUs, and there is a point of prevalence of approximately 10%. Digital ulcers are often very painful and affect all aspects of physical, social, and family life as well as occupation. Digital ulcers are associated with a severe disease course. Systemic sclerosis DUs, particularly those occurring on the fingertips, represent a vascular ischemic complication, although other etiopathogenic factors play an important role. To guide management, a structured clinical approach is required, including DU definition, classification, and categorization. Digital ulcers require a multidisciplinary approach with close cooperation between physicians and specialist nursing and other allied health professionals to guarantee the appropriate treatment and provide patient education. Local wound bed management is necessary for all DUs and is combined with systemic (pharmacologic) treatments. When treating a DU, the clinician should actively review the therapeutic strategy to prevent further DUs, including the level of systemic disease control, and monitor closely for the development of DU complications, including infection and progression to gangrene. Despite a wide available therapeutic armory, a number of unmet needs and challenges remain that that require resolution to optimize DU management.

Conclusions and Relevance

A practical approach to DU management, including local wound bed management and systemic treatments, is useful. Digital ulcers are of interest to a broad range of dermatologists, rheumatologists, and other physicians providing care for patients with SSc. Careful clinical assessment and prompt intervention can substantially modify the clinical course of DUs in SSc.

High-frequency ultrasound as a scientific tool for skin imaging analysis

Ultrasonic imaging is one of the most important diagnostic tools in clinical medicine due to its cost, availability and good correlation with pathological results. High-frequency ultrasound (HFUS) is a technique used in skin science that has been little explored, especially in comparison with other sites and imaging techniques. HFUS shows real-time images of the skin layers, appendages and skin lesions in vivo and can significantly contribute to advances in skin science. This review summarizes the potential applications of HFUS in dermatology and cosmetology, with a focus on quantitative tools that can be used to assess various skin conditions. Our findings showed that HFUS imaging is a reproducible and powerful tool for the diagnosis, clinical management and therapy monitoring of skin conditions. It is also a helpful tool for assessing the performance of dermatological products. This technique may eventually become essential for evaluating the performance of dermatological and cosmetic products.

The Updated Role of Ultrasound in Assessing Dermatological Manifestations in Systemic Sclerosis

Systemic sclerosis (SSc), an autoimmune connective tissue disease, characterized by skin fibrosis, increased dermal thickness and microvascular involvement. Fibroblasts and myofibroblasts deposit excessive amounts of collagenous and non-collagenous extracellular matrix components in the skin. This leads to microvascular abnormalities and Raynaud's phenomenon, with painful digital ulcers (DU) at the fingertips adding to patient discomfort. The skin involvement and severity in SSc was evaluated by the Modified Rodnan skin score (mRSS). Although high-frequency ultrasound (HUS) has been widely researched in the study of skin thickness and DU in SSc, its adoption into clinical practice is not yet common. However, novel insights into the still relatively unknown disease pathogenesis in SSc and its evaluation may be provided by HUS, including early (pre-clinical) skin involvement. It may also be useful in both the evaluation and follow-up of DU. Indeed, it is a non-invasive, safe, inexpensive and reproducible method able to assess not only SSc patients' cutaneous structural changes, but also their vascular system changes. Moreover, several recent studies have reported that elastosonography (ES) is of use when investigating skin involvement in systemic sclerosis. This review aims at providing information as to role HUS and ES play in research advancements and the clinical perspectives in the evaluation of skin thickness and DU in SSc patients.

A narrative review of imaging in calcinosis associated with systemic sclerosis

Calcinosis is dystrophic calcification of the soft tissue which can lead to painful and debilitating disease. It is commonly seen in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc). Imaging can assist in diagnosis, quantification of disease, and better pathophysiologic understanding of calcinosis. Traditionally, X-rays have been the most frequently used imaging modality for diagnosis; however, advances in ultrasound (US), computed tomography (CT), positron emission tomography (PET), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) have led to greater ability to characterize these lesions and surrounding structures. This narrative review aims to describe the use of imaging for calcinosis in patients with SSc. Key Points • Imaging is useful in the diagnosis of calcinosis, assessment of disease severity, and disease monitoring. • X-ray is commonly used and offers high sensitivity and specificity, but both ultrasound and CT-scans are alternatives when greater anatomic detail is sought regarding surrounding structures. • Investigational imaging modalities include dual energy CT-scans, cinematic rendering CT-scans, and PET- CT scans. • Conventional MRI scans have less sensitivity and specificity for detection of calcinosis.

Ultrasonographic imaging of systemic sclerosis digital ulcers: A systematic literature review and validation steps

INTRODUCTION/BACKGROUND

Skin ulcers are a complex array of clinical manifestations of systemic sclerosis (SSc) and are often difficult to treat. However, the definition of SSc-skin ulcers has to date not been promising, demonstrating poor reliability and accuracy. There are emerging data that ultrasound has significant potential to evaluate SSc-skin ulcers.

OBJECTIVE

To perform a systematic literature review (SLR) to understand the degree to which ultrasound of SSc skin ulcers has been validated according to OMERACT criteria.

METHODS

In a SLR, we investigated the Cochrane Library, Web of Science and Pubmed databases for manuscripts from inception to 1st April 2020. Inclusion and exclusion criteria included manuscripts on SSc patients aged over 16 years, performing SSc-related skin ulcer evaluation with ultrasound machines. Papers on animal model, diseases other than SSc, venous ulcers were excluded. Data extraction used a uniform case report form which collected data on patient demographics, disease activity, description of the ultrasound machine and procedures and the degree to which domains of validity were fulfilled. Manuscript evaluation and extraction was performed by two independent assessors, with a third author being consulted in case of disagreement.

RESULTS

amongst 308 manuscripts that were identified, 6 published manuscripts/ posters fulfilled the inclusion/exclusion criteria and were extracted. Face validity was found. Three studies developed an US definition of SSc-ulcers across patients (content validity); one study evaluated the concordance between US image and clinical assessment. Criterion validity was shown by one study and ultrasound detected improvement (sensitivity to change) of SSc-skin ulcer in response to therapy. Feasibility was demonstrated by US use for skin ulcers in multiple settings (the 6 manuuscripts/posters).

CONCLUSION

This systematic literature review shows that ultrasound for skin ulcers in SSc has been partially validated. It has face, content, criterion validity, responsiveness and reasonable feasibility. Further validation for construct validity, reliability and discrimination is required.

Digital Ulcers in Systemic Sclerosis

Digital ulcers (DU) are one of the most common complication of Systemic Sclerosis (SSc)-related vasculopathy and represent an important burden for the patients as well as for the society. Still today there is no agreement on the definition, classification and cathegorization of DU even if they are of pivotal importance in clinical practice, for treatment choice and prognostic outcomes, as well as for clinical trials. DU management requires a dedicated multidisciplinary team, that must remain ever vigilant for the development of infective complications and gangrene throughout their disease course, as well as patient education that is crucial to obtain the best compliance to assure the success of the treatment. Currently several drugs are available for DU treatment but in the future, more investigations will be needed to ameliorate the approach and the systemic and local therapies.

European Federation of Societies for Ultrasound in Medicine and Biology (EFSUMB) Position Statement on Dermatologic Ultrasound

Dermatologic ultrasound is a recent application of ultrasound for the evaluation of healthy skin and appendages and their diseases. Although the scientific literature regarding this application is still not sufficient for evidence-based guidelines, general recommendations issued by scientific societies are necessary. The EFSUMB (European Federation of Societies for Ultrasound in Medicine and Biology) steering committee for dermatologic ultrasound has developed a series of consensus position statements regarding the main fields of dermatologic ultrasound (technical requirement, normal skin and appendages, inflammatory skin diseases, tumoral skin diseases, aesthetic dermatology and practice-training requirements). This document is the foundation for future evidence-based recommendations and guidelines for dermatologic ultrasound practice.

Imaging digital arteries in systemic sclerosis by tomographic 3-dimensional ultrasound

Objective methods are needed to quantify digital artery disease in systemic sclerosis (SSc) for clinical trials of vascular therapies. Our primary aim was to examine feasibility of a novel tomographic three-dimensional-(3-D) ultrasound (tUS) with high-frequency ultrasound (HFUS) or ultra-high-frequency ultrasound (UHFUS) to assess the digital arteries in patients with SSc compared to healthy controls. A secondary objective was to compare the total wall volume (TWV) as a measure of intimal/medial thickness. Eighteen patients with a confirmed diagnosis of SSc were studied by tUS HFUS (17.5 MHz, n = 10) or tUS UHFUS (48 and 70 MHz, n = 8) with equal numbers of healthy controls of similar age and gender. The majority of patients had limited cutaneous SSc and were representative of a spectrum of digital vasculopathy, with over half (n = 6 HFUS and n = 5 UHFUS) having previous digital ulceration. Over half were receiving oral vasodilatory therapy. TWV was measured in both digital arteries of the middle finger bilaterally. At least, two digital arteries could be identified at 17.5 MHz in all patients and healthy controls. Whereas, at least two digital arteries could be identified in relatively fewer patients compared to healthy controls using 48 MHz (n = 6 and 10) and especially 70 MHz (n = 4 and 10) UHFUS. The median difference in TWV between patients and healthy controls was -6.49 mm³ using 17.5 MHz, 1.9 mm³ at 48 MHz, and -0.4 mm³ at 70 MHz. tUS using UHFUS is a feasible method to measure TWV of digital arteries in SSc. Transducer frequency plays an important factor in successful digital artery measurement, with 48 MHz being the optimal frequency.

Raynaud phenomenon and digital ulcers in systemic sclerosis

Raynaud phenomenon is a symptom complex caused by impaired digital perfusion and can occur as a primary phenomenon or secondary to a wide range of underlying causes. Raynaud phenomenon occurs in virtually all patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc) and is often the earliest clinical manifestation to occur. Careful assessment is required in patients with Raynaud phenomenon to avoid missing secondary causes such as SSc. Digital ulcers are a painful and disabling visible manifestation of digital vascular injury in patients with SSc. Progress has been made in the classification and assessment of digital ulcers and in understanding ulcer pathogenesis, and there are a wide range of treatments available to both prevent and heal digital ulcers, some of which are also used in Raynaud phenomenon management. In this Review, the assessment of patients with Raynaud phenomenon is discussed, including 'red flags' that are suggestive of SSc. The pathogenesis, classification and assessment of SSc-associated digital ulcers are also covered, alongside an overview of management approaches for SSc-associated Raynaud phenomenon and digital ulcers. Finally, unmet needs are discussed and the concept of a unified vascular phenotype in which therapies that affect the vasculature to support disease modification strategies is introduced.

Digital ulcer debridement in systemic sclerosis: a systematic literature review

Optimal wound care is an essential component in the management of systemic sclerosis (SSc) digital ulcers (DUs). DU debridement has been suggested to reduce ulcer-related pain and improve tissue healing. However, only a minority of rheumatologists perform DU debridement, and there is no standard of care/protocol. Our objectives were to (i) evaluate the current evidence for the use of debridement in DU management and (ii) assess whether there are any specific protocols. A systematic literature review was performed searching the PubMed database (between 01/01/1950-01/03/2019) in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Two independent reviewers screened and extracted the abstracts/full manuscripts. Articles in English, which focussed on SSc-DU debridement/curettage, were included. Exclusion criteria included studies of juvenile/paediatric patients and basic/non-clinical research. Our search identified 1497 studies of which 4 studies were included in our final analysis. Three studies used scalpel debridement, and one study used this in combination with autolytic debridement. No studies specifically reported the effect on DU healing from debridement. Autolytic debridement with hyaluronate-based products was associated with significant ulcer pain and inflammation. Local anaesthetic significantly reduces pain both during and after debridement. Combined local and oral analgesia is often required for more severe or infected DUs. DU (scalpel and autolytic) debridement is being used by some clinicians in rheumatology; however, there are no standardised protocols. To improve wound care for SSc-DUs, future research should focus on developing a standardised protocol for SSc-DU debridement, with a view to facilitate randomised controlled trials to demonstrate safety and treatment efficacy.Key Points• Optimal wound care is an essential component in the management of systemic sclerosis-digital ulcers.• 'Sharp' debridement uses a scalpel, whereas 'autolytic' debridement uses dressings to optimize endogenous tissue lysis.• There is significant variation in the use of digital ulcer debridement in systemic sclerosis.• A standardized protocol and randomized controlled trials are needed to demonstrate debridement the safety and efficacy of digital ulcer debridement in systemic sclerosis.

Calcinosis in scleroderma

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To provide an update on the available literature regarding the epidemiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of calcinosis cutis in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc).

RECENT FINDINGS

We identified observational studies that describe the frequency of calcinosis in SSc and associated clinical features; molecular studies exploring potential pathogenic mechanisms; and case reports and case series describing new diagnostic approaches and treatments.

SUMMARY

Calcinosis cutis is the deposition of insoluble calcium in the skin and subcutaneous tissues. It represents a major clinical problem in patients with SSc affecting at least one quarter of patients. It is associated with longer disease duration, digital ulcers, acro-osteolysis, positive anticentromere antibody, and positive anti-PM/Scl antibody. Although pathogenesis is unknown, there is evidence supporting local trauma, chronic inflammation, vascular hypoxia, and dysregulation of bone matrix proteins as potential mechanisms. Diagnosis can be made clinically or with plain radiography. Several pharmacologic therapies have been tried for calcinosis with variable and modest results, but surgical excision of calcium deposits remains the mainstay of treatment.

Why, how, and when to use color Doppler ultrasound for improving precision in the diagnosis, assessment of severity and activity in morphea

Morphea also called localized scleroderma is a complex entity that requires objective methods for supporting the diagnosis, severity, and activity. To date, clinical scorings may show a very good inter-rater agreement but cannot provide anatomical information on subclinical involvement. Biological markers can be used for detecting inflammation but may not be useful for grading tissue damage. Color Doppler ultrasound can support diagnosis and the assessment of severity and activity in morphea which has been validated using histology as the gold standard. Ultrasound is the first-choice imaging technique for studying cutaneous diseases and can show subclinical involvement, including the affection of deeper layers non-invasively and safely. It requires proper ultrasound devices, imaging-trained physicians for performing the examinations, the performance of a standardized protocol during the examinations, and an organized schedule that allows enough time for evaluating the patients. Under the latter conditions, ultrasonography can be a powerful and reliable tool for supporting the management of morphea.

Preliminary Validation of the Digital Ulcer Clinical Assessment Score in Systemic Sclerosis

Objective.

To date, “healed/non-healed” and clinical judgment are the only available assessment tools for digital ulcers (DU) in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc). The aim of our study is to examine a preliminary composite DU clinical assessment score (DUCAS) for SSc for face, content, and construct validity.

Methods.

Patients with SSc presenting at least 1 finger DU were enrolled and assessed with the Health Assessment Questionnaire–Disability Index, Cochin scale, visual analog scale (VAS) for DU-related pain, patient global DU status, and global assessment as patient-reported outcomes (PRO), and physician VAS for DU status (phyGDU) as an SSc-DU expert physician/nurse measure. The DUCAS included 7 DU-related variables selected by a committee of SSc DU experts and weighted on a clinical basis. Face validity was examined by consensus and partial construct validity was tested through convergent correlation with other measures of hand function, using Spearman’s correlations. A range of patients with SSc was examined. A linear regression model with backward stepwise analysis was used to determine the relationship of individual variables with the primary clinical parameter, phyGDU.

Results.

Forty-four patients with SSc (9 males, mean age 55 ± 15 yrs, mean disease duration 9.9 ± 5.8 yrs) were enrolled in the study. Overall DUCAS showed significant positive correlations with all abovementioned PRO (r > 0.4, p < 0.01). When all scores and scales were modeled, only DUCAS significantly predicted phyGDU (r = 0.59, R2 = 0.354, Akaike information criterion = 385.4).

Conclusion.

Preliminarily, we suggest that the DUCAS may be a new clinical score for SSc-related DU, having face and content validity and convergent/divergent correlations (construct validity). These early data suggest that this score deserves further evaluation.