Musculoskeletal Manifestations of Systemic Sclerosis

Total Hip Arthroplasty Patients With Systemic Sclerosis Have Worse Medical Outcomes But Clinically Similar Implant Survival Independent of Immunomodulatory Therapy

INTRODUCTION

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a multisystem autoimmune disorder characterized by fibrosis and often early articular degeneration. Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is a procedure for which SSc patients may be considered. However, outcomes past hospital discharge and the association of exposure to common immunomodulatory therapy (IMT) agents on such outcomes remain unknown.

METHODS

Retrospective cohort study of SSc patients who underwent THA. Patients with SSc were matched in 4:1 ratio with (-)SSc controls based on age, sex, and Elixhauser Comorbidity Index. Incidence of 90-day medical and implant-related adverse events (AEs) were assessed by multivariable logistic regression, and 5-year revision was assessed by Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and log-rank test.

RESULTS

SSc patients undergoing THA demonstrated greater odds ratio (OR) of severe (OR 1.46) and minor AEs (OR 1.47; P < 0.001 for both). However, perioperative IMT utilization was not associated with notable modification of these odds (P > 0.05 for both). SSc patients demonstrated similar odds of 90-day implant-related AEs (P > 0.05 for all) and similar 5-year revision-free survival vs (-)SSc controls (97.3% vs. 96.6%, respectively; P = 0.200).

DISCUSSION

Patients with SSc undergoing THA experience increased 90-day medical AEs, independent of IMT utilization. Encouragingly, SSc patients demonstrated similar 90-day implant-related AEs and 5-year revision-free survival, suggesting that the major barrier to superior outcomes may not be implant related but rather driven by medical complications.

Differential risk of autoimmune disorders in non-traumatic osteonecrosis: clue to pathogenesis

INTRODUCTION

Non-traumatic osteonecrosis is a frequent complication in patients with autoimmune disorders, though its prevalence varies markedly depending upon the type of disorder. Understanding the causes of this difference can help uncover the underlying pathophysiology of osteonecrosis and guide the development of effective preventive and therapeutic strategies.

AREAS COVERED

In this perspective study, we reviewed available databases, including PubMed, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and Web of Science, to explore why the risk of osteonecrosis varies among different autoimmune disorders. Is this variation primarily due to the disease's pathophysiology, the use of medications such as corticosteroids, or a combination of both? If both factors are involved, what is the extent of each contribution in this context?

EXPERT OPINION

Non-traumatic osteonecrosis is often induced by an interaction between disease pathophysiology and corticosteroid use. In patients with different autoimmune disorders but an identical history of corticosteroid use, the risk of osteonecrosis is influenced by how the underlying pathophysiology compromises bone health. In autoimmune disorders with multiple adverse effects on bone, such as SLE (systemic lupus erythematosus), there is a much higher risk of osteonecrosis compared to disorders with minimal impact on bone health, such as celiac disease and MS (multiple sclerosis).

Are the clinical phenotypes of systemic sclerosis determinant for osteoporosis and fragility fractures?

AIM

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is associated with an increased risk of osteoporosis and fractures. The aim of this single-center cross-sectional study was to evaluate whether clinical phenotype and nailfold videocapillaroscopy (NVC) pattern could influence bone mineral density (BMD) values and fragility fractures in patients with SSc.

METHODS

A cohort of 84 consecutive outpatients (age 63.7 ± 13.7 years) diagnosed with SSc, 43 classified as diffuse cutaneus SSc (dSSc) and 41 as limited cutaneus SSc (lSSc), were enrolled in the study. All patients underwent BMD by Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DX, pulmonary function tests for diffusing capacity of carbon monoxide (DLCO), and NVC to be assigned to an "early," "active," or "late" pattern.

RESULTS

Patients with dSSc exhibited significantly lower BMD values compared to those with lSSc; moreover, the prevalence of osteoporosis and major osteoporotic fractures were higher in dSSc than in lcSSc (39,6% and 41,9% vs. 29,2% and 34,1%, respectively). Patients with a "late" or "active" NVC pattern had a more marked reduction in BMD with respect to those with a "early" pattern (p < 0.05). Moreover, patients with dSSc showed a greater reduction in DLCO values compared to those with lSSc in all three capillaroscopic patterns (p < 0.05). DLCO reduction and history of previous fracture were independent predictors of total hip BMD in dSSc patients.

CONCLUSION

Patients with SSc, and particularly those with a "diffuse" phenotype, have a high prevalence of osteoporosis and major osteoporotic fractures. Furthermore, in both SSc phenotypes, the presence of an "active" or "late" capillaroscopic pattern was associated with reduced BMD and DLCO values.

Assessment of foot impairment in systemic sclerosis: a cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVES

To assess foot function in SSc and its association with socio-demographic and clinical factors. To evaluate mobility, foot alterations, foot pain, and foot care in these patients.

METHODS

Consecutive SSc patients underwent structured interviews and physical examinations. Disability was assessed using the HAQ disability index (HAQ-DI) and the Scleroderma HAQ (SHAQ). Foot function was measured using the Foot Function Index (FFI), foot pain using a numeric pain scale (NPS), and mobility using the Timed-Up-and-Go test (TUG).

RESULTS

A total of 101 patients were included. Forefoot pain was observed in 50.5%, hindfoot pain in 31.7%, foot ulcers in 6.9%, foot plantar callosities in 38.6%, foot arthritis in 2.97%, hallux valgus in 9.9%, claw toes in 5%, and valgus ankle in 3% of patients. The mean FFI was 3.54 (±2.6), the mean NPS was 6.08 (±3.58), and the mean TUG test result was 10.52 (±6.5) seconds. Higher FFI scores, increased NPS, and prolonged TUG were associated with RP severity, SHAQ and HAQ-DI. Of the 101 patients, 36.6% of patients reported never having had their feet examined, and only 32.7% had had their feet examined within the past year.

CONCLUSION

Foot dysfunction and pain are common in SSc. Higher FFI scores, increased pain, and prolonged TUG duration were linked to disability (HAQ-DI and SHAQ). These analyses should be considered exploratory and require confirmation in external cohorts. Routine foot examinations were lacking in clinical practice. Improved attention for evaluating and caring for the feet in SSc patients is needed.

Assessing hand grasp in patients with systemic sclerosis using the 16-grasp test: Preliminary results from a multidisciplinary study group

BACKGROUND

Reports on hand dysfunction and rehabilitation in SSc are quite scarce in the literature and mainly focus on functional assessment tools, such as the Duruoz Hand Index and the HAMIS test for evaluating hand mobility by simulating specific grasps with nine different objects.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to provide an adequate assessment methodology for hand grasp dysfunctions in patients suffering from systemic sclerosis (SSc) through the 16-grasp test.

STUDY DESIGN

Case-control study.

METHODS

Ninety-seven consecutive SSc patients were recruited at our Scleroderma Unit, where a 16-grasp test was performed by all patients and supervised by an experienced hand therapist. Sixteen different patterns of grasp have been divided into power grasps and precision pinch and two more modalities: static and dynamic prehension evaluation on scale from 0 to 4. We also compared previous evaluations on 19 of patients recruited.

RESULTS

The majority of SSc patients (84 females and 13 males; mean age 56.0±12.0 years; mean disease duration 8.0±6.0 years) displayed grasp dysfunctions; in particular 48% and 54% reported slight difficulty in the right and left grasps respectively, 6% medium difficulty in both hands, and only 3% and 1% experienced severe difficulty respectively, while 31.5% had no issues in either hand. Our results showed that the limited cutaneous subset (lcSSc) scored a lower deficit for either grasp compared to diffuse form (dcSSc). No statistically significant differences in total grasp deficit had been noticed when comparing patients having a disease duration < 5 years or longer. In the retrospective study on 19 of these patients, 8 out of 10 lcSSc patients showed no significant changes, while in 2 out of 10, slight improvements were observed in both hands. However, in the dcSSc group, 4 out of 9 worsened bilaterally while the grasp scores for 5 of them remained unchanged.

CONCLUSION

Our study reported hand involvement in both lcSSc and dcSSc forms, more significantly in dcSSc patients. This test is intended to be a more objective means of assessing grasp alterations linked to scleroderma hand deformities. Furthermore, thanks to its intuitiveness, the test may be useful for engineers designing personalized ergonomic assistive devices.

Inflammatory Arthritis in Systemic Sclerosis: Its Epidemiology, Associations, and Morbidity

OBJECTIVE

To describe the epidemiology, associations, and impact of inflammatory arthritis (IA) in systemic sclerosis (SSc).

METHODS

Patients with SSc prospectively enrolled in the Australian Scleroderma Cohort Study were included. IA was defined clinically as the presence of synovitis on examination. Logistic regression was used to determine the associations of IA with SSc manifestations and serological parameters. Patient-reported outcome measures were used to capture physical function and health-related quality of life (HRQoL).

RESULTS

IA was a common SSc manifestation affecting one-third (33.3%) of patients over a median follow-up of 4.3 (1.7-8.4) years. Associations of IA included diffuse SSc (odds ratio [OR] 1.33, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 1.01-1.74, P = 0.042), concurrent musculoskeletal manifestations (joint contractures and tendon friction rubs, OR 1.70, 95% CI 1.34-2.15, P < 0.001); myositis (OR 2.11, 95% CI 1.39-3.20, P < 0.001), and sicca symptoms (OR 1.57, 95% CI 1.14-2.16, P = 0.006), whereas IA was negatively associated with pulmonary arterial hypertension (OR 0.52, 95% CI 0.35-0.78, P = 0.002). Neither the presence of rheumatoid factor nor U1 small nuclear RNP were associated with IA (OR 1.13, 95% CI 0.88-1.44, P = 0.331, OR 1.46, 95% CI 0.89-2.39, P = 0.129 respectively). Positive anticyclic citrullinated protein antibodies, although at low frequency, were more common in those with IA compared with those without IA (7.5% vs 1.5%, P < 0.001). IA was associated with significantly lower HRQoL score (P < 0.001) and more physical disability than in those without IA (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

IA is a common disease manifestation that is more frquently seen in diffuse disease. IA is associated with poor HRQoL and physical disability. Further research is needed into the effective management of IA in SSc.

Best clinical practice in the treatment of juvenile systemic sclerosis: expert panel guidance - the result of the International Hamburg Consensus Meeting December 2022

INTRODUCTION

Juvenile systemic sclerosis (jSSc) is an orphan disease with a prevalence of 3 in 1,000,000 children. Currently there is only one consensus treatment guideline concerning skin, pulmonary and vascular involvement for jSSc, the jSSc SHARE (Single Hub and Access point for pediatric Rheumatology in Europe) initiative, which was based on data procured up to 2014. Therefore, an update of these guidelines, with a more recent literature and expert experience, and extension of the guidance to more aspects of the disease is needed.

AREAS COVERED

Treatment options were reviewed, and opinions were provided for most facets of jSSc including general management, some of which differs from adult systemic sclerosis, such as the use of corticosteroids, and specific organ involvement, such as skin, musculoskeletal, pulmonary, and gastroenterology.

EXPERT OPINION

We are suggesting the treat to target strategy to treat early to prevent cumulative disease damage in jSSc. Conclusions are derived from both expert opinion and available literature, which is mostly based on adult systemic sclerosis (aSSc), given shared pathophysiology, extrapolation of results from aSSc studies was judged reasonable.

Neurological, cardiac, musculoskeletal, and renal manifestations of scleroderma along with insights into its genetics, pathophysiology, diagnostic, and therapeutic updates

Background

Scleroderma, also referred to as systemic sclerosis, is a multifaceted autoimmune condition characterized by abnormal fibrosis and impaired vascular function. Pathologically, it encompasses the persistent presence of inflammation, abnormal collagen buildup, and restructuring of blood vessels in various organs, resulting in a wide range of clinical symptoms. This review incorporates the most recent scientific literature on scleroderma, with a particular emphasis on its pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, diagnostic approaches, and treatment options.

Methodology

A comprehensive investigation was carried out on numerous databases, such as PubMed, MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, to collect pertinent studies covering diverse facets of scleroderma research.

Results

Scleroderma presents with a range of systemic manifestations, such as interstitial lung disease, gastrointestinal dysmotility, Raynaud's phenomenon, pulmonary arterial hypertension, renal complications, neurological symptoms, and cardiac abnormalities. Serological markers, such as antinuclear antibodies, anti-centromere antibodies, and anti-topoisomerase antibodies, are important for classifying diseases and predicting their outcomes.

Discussion

The precise identification of scleroderma is crucial for promptly and correctly implementing effective treatment plans. Treatment approaches aim to improve symptoms, reduce complications, and slow down the progression of the disease. An integrated approach that combines pharmacological agents, including immunosuppressants, endothelin receptor antagonists, and prostanoids, with nonpharmacological interventions such as physical and occupational therapy is essential for maximizing patient care.

Conclusion

Through the clarification of existing gaps in knowledge and identification of emerging trends, our goal is to improve the accuracy of diagnosis, enhance the effectiveness of therapeutic interventions, and ultimately enhance the overall quality of life for individuals suffering from scleroderma. Ongoing cooperation and creative research are necessary to advance the field and achieve improved patient outcomes and new therapeutic discoveries.

Development of a Musculoskeletal Ultrasound Protocol to Evaluate Hand Pain in Systemic Sclerosis Patients

Hand impairment is a frequently reported complaint in systemic sclerosis (SSc) patients and a leading cause of disability and diminished quality of life. Managing hand pain can be particularly challenging due to the coexistence of non-inflammatory arthralgias, inflammatory arthritis, acro-osteolysis, tenosynovitis, joint contractures, tendon friction rubs, nerve entrapment, Raynaud's phenomenon (RP), digital ulcers (DU), sclerodactyly, calcinosis, and chronic pain. While physical examination and radiographs are the first line methods for evaluating hand pain, they are limited in scope and miss many underlying etiologies of hand impairment. We propose a joint ultrasound (US) hand protocol to differentiate between various articular, periarticular, ischemic, skin, and nerve pathologies and to assist in targeted treatment strategies.

Economic and Health Care Resource Use Burden of Systemic Sclerosis

OBJECTIVE

To describe the health care resource use (HCRU) and costs of patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc) prior to and after diagnosis.

METHODS

This retrospective study used a claims data set (Merative MarketScan; 2015-2019). Eligible patients with SSc were identified by diagnosis codes and required at least 24 months of enrollment without an SSc diagnosis before their first SSc claim and at least 12 months of enrollment thereafter. Total HCRU and costs were reported for three intervals: 2 years and 1 year before and 1 year after index diagnosis. A general population cohort without SSc was matched 1:1 to the SSC cohort on age and sex for comparison.

RESULTS

Eligibility criteria identified 902 patients with SSc (mean age: 54 years old; 85% female). Mean per-member per year costs increased each year from $22,383 to $29,708 to $47,095, 2 years before, 1 year before, and 1 year after index diagnosis versus $10,232 to $9656 to $9714 in the general population cohort. Outpatient settings represented the largest proportion of cost 1 year after SSc diagnosis ($16,392), followed by prescription drugs ($10,692), physician office ($10,523), and inpatient ($9448) settings.

CONCLUSION

Patients with SSC accrued greater costs and required more services than a general population cohort. These elevated expenditures and HCRU were observed at least 2 years before an SSc diagnosis and increased over time, reflecting both the progressive, multisystem nature of SSc and potential challenges in diagnosis. These findings suggest that SSc poses a substantial burden on the US health care system and highlights the need for early diagnosis and effective therapies.

Adipose derived stromal vascular fraction and fat graft for treating the hands of patients with systemic sclerosis. A randomized clinical trial

BACKGROUND

Systemic Sclerosis in the hand is characteristically evidenced by Raynaud's phenomenon, fibrosis of the skin, tendons, ligaments, and joints as well as digital ulcers with prolonged healing. Current medical treatment does not always cure these complications. Local adipose-derived stromal vascular fraction administration into the hands has been proposed as an emerging treatment due to its regenerative properties. The objective of this randomized controlled clinical trial was to evaluate the safety and clinical effects of fat micrografts plus adipose derived-stromal vascular fraction administration into the hands of patients with systemic sclerosis.

METHODS

This was an open-label, monocentric, randomized controlled study. Twenty patients diagnosed with systemic sclerosis were assigned to the experimental or control group. Fat micrografts plus the adipose derived-stromal vascular fraction were injected into the right hand of experimental group patients. The control group continued to receive only medical treatment. Demographic, serologic data and disease severity were recorded. Digital oximetry, pain, Raynaud phenomenon, digital ulcers number, mobility, thumb opposition, vascular density of the nail bed, skin affection of the hand, serologic antibodies, hand function, and quality of life scores were evaluated in both groups.

RESULTS

The results of the intervention were analyzed with the Wilcoxon rank test, and the differences between the control and experimental groups at 0 days and 168 days were analyzed with the Mann-Whitney U test. Adverse events were not observed in both groups. At the end of the study, statistically significant improvements were observed in pain levels (p<0.05) and number of digital ulcers (p<0.01) in the experimental vs control group.

CONCLUSION

The injection of adipose derived-stromal vascular fraction plus fat micrografts is a reproducible, and safe technique. Pain and digital ulcers in the hands of patients with systemic sclerosis can be treated with this technique plus conventional medical treatment.

Considerations When Performing Arthrodesis in the Scleroderma Hand

BACKGROUND

Hand deformities secondary to scleroderma can limit activities of daily living and be associated with substantial disability. This study aimed to evaluate the outcomes following arthrodesis performed to treat digital contractures secondary to scleroderma.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective review of all patients with scleroderma who underwent arthrodesis by a single surgeon from 2015 to 2020. We collected demographic information, operative variables, and outcomes variables. Our primary outcome was occurrence of any postoperative complication, which we defined to include wound dehiscence, digital ischemia, malunion, nonunion, cellulitis, and osteomyelitis. We calculated descriptive statistics and performed all analyses at the joint level.

RESULTS

We identified 9 patients who underwent arthrodesis of 19 joints. All patients were women with a mean age of 55.3 years. At the time of surgery, most patients were taking disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). Kirschner wires (K-wires) were used in most cases (n = 18), 15 of which were removed uneventfully at an average of 4.8 months after surgery. With a mean follow-up time of 15.4 months, the overall complication rate was 5.3% (n = 1). This patient developed digital ischemia in 1 of 4 operative digits, which became gangrenous and required amputation.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study suggests that arthrodesis can be performed safely in the scleroderma hand, even when patients are taking DMARDs. Given the uneventful K-wire removal in all joints and the high risk of exposure of buried hardware in this population, we recommend nonpermanent placement of K-wires. Hand surgeons may consider arthrodesis in the scleroderma hand before proceeding to revision amputation.

Treatment of Inflammatory Arthritis in Systemic Sclerosis

Joint involvement, including arthralgia, inflammatory arthritis, joint contractures and overlapping with rheumatoid arthritis, is a common manifestation and is associated with impared quality of life in systemic sclerosis (SSc). Few studies have evaluated the treatment of arthritis in SSc. Pharmacological approach includes low-dose corticosteroids, methotrexate, and hydroxychloroquine. Non-tumor necrosis factor biologics, especially rituximab and tocilizumab, may be a promising option for refractory cases.

Importance and difficulty with valued life activities for people with systemic sclerosis

PURPOSE

To identify the importance of and difficulty with valued activities in persons with systemic sclerosis (SSc) and to examine relationships between disease symptoms and difficulty with valued activities using the Valued Activities Scale (VLA). A secondary purpose was to examine the internal consistency of the Short-VLA Scale (S-VLA).

METHODS

A cross-sectional convenience sample of 99 people with SSc completed questionnaires regarding demographics, symptom severity, Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ), Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D), and the VLA.

RESULTS

Obligatory activities were rated as most important; committed activities were significantly more difficult than obligatory and discretionary. Less fatigue (p < 0.01) and lower HAQ (p < 0.001) and CES-D (p < 0.01) scores were associated with higher total VLA scores. Internal consistency of the S-VLA was excellent (Cronbach's alpha = 0.92; p < 0.0001). The correlation between the S-VLA and the VLA was excellent (r = 0.96; p < 0.001). There were moderate correlations between the S-VLA and the HAQ (r = 0.73; p < 0.0001); the correlation with the CES-D was only fair (r = 0.35; p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Committed and discretionary activities were more difficult for people with SSc to perform. Results are similar to findings with people with rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus.IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATIONHome management/caregiving (committed) and leisure and social participation (discretionary) activities are more difficult to perform by people with SSc compared to self-care (obligatory) activities.Our findings that difficulty scores on the VLA were associated with more fatigue and depression suggest the need for rehabilitation to reduce disability in people with SSc.The S-VLA may be a useful screening and monitoring tool for SSc and other chronic conditions.

Low-Frequency Magnetic Resonance Imaging Identifies Hand Joint Subclinical Inflammation in Systemic Sclerosis

Objectives: The aim of this work was to determine hand joint inflammation in systemic sclerosis (SSc); patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) with hand joint involvement were used as controls. Our investigation also aimed at examining the relationship between these subclinical inflammatory changes in the hands, verified by low-frequency MRI, and clinical (especially cardiopulmonary) manifestations, disease activity, and functional capacity in patients with diffuse cutaneous (dcSSc) and limited cutaneous SSc (lcSSc). Methods: Out of 250 SSc patients, the selection included 82 patients with signs and symptoms of joint involvement, and 35 consecutive RA patients. These patients underwent clinical and laboratory investigations, and hand X-ray and MRI of the dominant hand. Synovitis/tenosynovitis, bone edema, and erosions were investigated, and the bone changes were quantified and scored using the RAMRIS method. HAQ index, modified Rodnan skin score, examination of internal organ involvement, and serological markers for SSc, as well as rheumatoid factor (RF) and cyclic citrullinated peptides antibodies (ACPA), were performed on all experimental group subjects. Results: MRI of the dominant hand showed a significantly higher number of cases with synovitis (78%) than the number of patients with clinically swollen joints (17.1%; p < 0.001); bone edema was found in 62 (75.6%) SSc patients. MRI also showed a higher number of erosions (52; 63.4%) compared to those (22; 27.5%) detected with X-ray (p < 0.001). The average values of the total MRI score of synovitis/edema and erosions in the wrist (p < 0.001) and MCP joints (p < 0.001) were statistically higher in RA than in SSc patients (p < 0.001). The probability of the MRI-detected inflammatory changes was considerably higher in SSc patients who had vascular complications (digital ulceration, OR = 4.68; 95% IP: 1.002−22.25; p < 0.05), in patients with more severe functional impairment (OR = 8.22; 95% IP: 1.74−38.89; p < 0.01), and in patients with active disease (OR = 3.132; 95% IP: 1.027−9.551; p < 0.05). In our investigation, patients with a limited form of the disease and with inflammatory changes on MR more often had higher functional impairment compared to the other group without MRI inflammation. Conclusions: Our data show that in SSc MRI can detect a significant subclinical joint inflammation. RAMRIS confirmed the high degree of joint inflammation in RA, but also revealed a great deal of joint inflammation in SSc. That inflammation is associated with systemic inflammation (disease activity), vascular complications, and more severe forms of the disease, as synovitis cannot be precisely diagnosed by the clinical examination of joints. These results suggest that a careful joint investigation is necessary in SSc, and that in symptomatic patients, MRI may identify joint inflammation. In clinical practice, this evidence might drive to an early targeted therapy, thus preventing joint erosions.

The role of PET/CT in connective tissue disorders: systemic sclerosis, Sjögren's syndrome and systemic lupus erythematosus

Advanced imaging techniques are needed to help clinicians in the diagnosis, in the choice of the right time for therapeutic interventions or for modifications and monitoring of treatment response in patients with autoimmune connective tissue diseases. Nuclear medicine imaging, especially PET/CT and PET/MRI, may play an important role in detecting disease activity, assessing early treatment response as well as in clarifying the complex mechanisms underlying systemic sclerosis, Sjögren's syndrome or systemic lupus erythematosus. In addition, [¹⁸F]FDG PET/CT may help in excluding or detecting coexisting malignancies. Other more specific radiopharmaceuticals are being developed and investigated, targeting specific cells and molecules involved in connective tissue diseases. Further larger studies with standardized imaging protocol and image interpretation are strongly required before including PET/CT in the diagnostic work-up of subsets of patients with autoimmune connective tissue diseases.

Using magnetic resonance imaging to map the hidden burden of muscle involvement in systemic sclerosis

BACKGROUND

Skeletal muscle can be directly affected by systemic sclerosis (SSc); however, a significant burden of SSc-associated myopathy is undetected because clinical parameters such as weakness and creatine kinase (CK) are unreliable biomarkers of muscle involvement. This study presents qualitative and quantitative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings that quantify the prevalence of myopathy and evaluate any association between skeletal and cardiac muscle involvement in SSc.

METHODS

Thirty-two patients with SSc who fulfilled the 2013 American College of Rheumatology/European League Against Rheumatism classification criteria underwent skeletal muscle MRI in addition to cardiac MRI. Skeletal muscles were independently assessed by two musculoskeletal radiologists for evidence of oedema, fatty infiltration and atrophy. Skeletal muscle T2 mapping times and percentage fat fraction were calculated. Linear regression analysis was used to evaluate the clinical and myocardial associations with skeletal muscle oedema and fatty infiltration. Cardiac MRI was performed using post gadolinium contrast imaging and parametric mapping techniques to assess focal and diffuse myocardial fibrosis.

RESULTS

Thirteen participants (40.6%) had MRI evidence of skeletal muscle oedema. Five (15.6%) participants had fatty infiltration. There was no association between skeletal muscle oedema and muscle strength, creatine kinase, inflammatory markers or fibroinflammatory myocardial disease. Patients with skeletal muscle oedema had higher T2-mapping times; there was a significant association between subjective assessments of muscle oedema and T2-mapping time (coef 2.46, p = 0.02) and percentage fat fraction (coef 3.41, p = 0.02). Diffuse myocardial fibrosis was a near-universal finding, and one third of patients had focal myocardial fibrosis. There was no association between skeletal myopathy detected by MRI and burden of myocardial disease.

CONCLUSIONS

MRI is a sensitive measure of muscle oedema and systematic assessment of SSc patients using MRI shows that myopathy is highly prevalent, even in patients without symptoms or other signs of muscle involvement. Similarly, cardiac fibrosis is highly prevalent but occurs independently of skeletal muscle changes. These results indicate that novel quantitative MRI techniques may be useful for assessing sub-clinical skeletal muscle disease in SSc.

Microangiopathy in Inflammatory Diseases-Strategies in Surgery of the Lower Extremity

BACKGROUND

Patients with an inflammatory disease frequently develop chronic angiopathy of the capillaries. Due to this pathology, there is an increased rate of complications in lower extremity surgical procedures. It is not uncommon for microangiopathic wound healing disorders to cause deep infections and fistulas, which lead to prolonged courses and hospitalizations. In addition, adhesions and ossifications of the contractile elements occur regularly. This sometimes results in serious limitations of the mobility of the patients. The study aims to present the results of a combination of vacuum and physical therapy.

PATIENT AND METHODS

A retrospective study of six patients with systemic sclerosis undergoing joint-related procedures of the lower extremity between 2015 and 2020 was performed. In addition to characterization of the patients and therapy, special attention was paid to cutaneous wound healing, affection of the fascia and displacement layers, and sclerosis of the muscle and tendon insertion.

RESULTS

The characterized structures (skin, tendon, fascia) show pathological changes at the microangiopathic level, which are associated with delayed healing and less physical capacity. Early suture removal regularly results in secondary scar dehiscence. With a stage-adapted vacuum therapy with sanitation of the deep structures and later on a dermal vacuum system, healing with simultaneous mobilization of the patients could be achieved in our patient cohort.

CONCLUSION

In the case of necessary interventions on the lower extremity, such as trauma surgery, additional decongestive measures in the sense of regular and sustained lymphatic therapy and adapted physiotherapy are indispensable.

Osteopetrosis in a Patient of Systemic Sclerosis Sine Scleroderma: A Rare Association

Systemic sclerosis is a connective tissue disorder of unknown etiology. Although it is a multisystemic disorder, skin thickening is considered as a hallmark of the disease. It usually involves the lungs, gastrointestinal, and musculoskeletal systems. However, a rare subset of systemic sclerosis, systemic sclerosis sine scleroderma, is characterized by internal organ involvement and positive serologic markers with the total or partial absence of cutaneous manifestations. We present a rare association of osteopetrosis in a case of systemic sclerosis sine scleroderma, in a 22-year-old male patient, who presented with pulmonary symptoms as his chief complaints, unreported so far in literature.

Early diagnosis of systemic scleroderma

Systemic scleroderma (SSc) is a systemic immune-mediated connective tissue disease characterized by fibroproductive changes in connective tissue and microvascular disorders. The disease affects the skin, musculoskeletal system and internal organs. It is a disease with a significant rate of morbidity and mortality, significantly worsening the quality of life of patients. Early initiation of therapy is necessary to prevent disease progression. This review article discusses the current possibilities of early diagnosis of systemic scleroderma.

Treatment of systemic sclerosis

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare connective tissue disease characterized by skin and visceral fibrosis, vascular hyperreactivity and obliterative vasculopathy. Some of its complications such as interstitial lung disease (ILD), pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and heart involvement can be life-threatening and are associated with a high mortality and a poor prognosis. Many clinical trials were carried out in order to improve the survival and prognosis of SSc patients. The management of SSc is based on the frequent and regular assessment of the potential organ damage, and if present, the establishment of graduated pharmacological therapeutic strategies, associated with non-pharmacological procedures. Several randomized clinical trials have showed significant positive outcomes regarding some specific involvements. Many advances have been made, especially in the field of targeted therapies and personalized medicine, based on specific characteristics of the patient and the SSc.

Effects of supervised exercise program and home exercise program in patients with systemic sclerosis: A randomized controlled trial

AIM

To compare the effects of supervised exercise and home exercise program in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc).

METHODS

Thirty-seven SSc patients were included. Patients with SSc were allocated into 2 groups as supervised and home exercise. Breathing, aerobic and resistance exercises were performed with a physiotherapist for 12 weeks in the supervised exercise group. Breathing, posture and aerobic exercises were given to the home exercise group as a home program for 12 weeks. All patients were assessed at baseline and 12 weeks later in terms of functional capacity, pulmonary functions, respiratory-peripheral muscle strength, dyspnea severity, health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and fatigue level.

RESULTS

Significant improvements were observed in the functional capacity, measured by 6 minute walking test in the supervised exercise group (before = 376.21 ± 65.50, after = 518.78 ± 75.84 m) and home exercise group (before = 384.44 ± 68.14, after = 432.7 ± 70.8 m; (P < .05). Respiratory-peripheral muscle strength (with the exception of inspiratory muscle strength and upper limb strength in the home exercise group) and HRQoL were significantly increased and fatigue level was significantly decreased in the supervised exercise and home exercise groups (P < .05). However, pulmonary functions and dyspnea severity were significantly improved only in the supervised exercise group (P < .05). The supervised exercise program was found superior to the home exercise program for change in all parameters (P < .05).

CONCLUSION

This study suggests that exercise interventions should be applied in addition to the medical treatments of patients with SSc as supervised and home exercise programs play an important role in the functionality and health status of these patients.

Cardiopulmonary exercise testing and prognosis in patients with systemic sclerosis without baseline pulmonary hypertension: a prospective cohort study

Cardiopulmonary Exercise Testing (CPET) is a standardized, non-invasive procedure assessing pulmonary, cardiovascular, hematopoietic, and skeletal muscle functions during a symptom-limited test. Few studies have examined whether CPET is of prognostic value in Systemic Sclerosis (SSc), a disease characterized by highly increased cardiorespiratory morbidity and mortality. To examine the prognostic value of CPET in SSc patients without baseline pulmonary hypertension (PH). Sixty-two consecutive SSc patients underwent CPET, Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs) and echocardiography at baseline. Four patients with Right Ventricular Systolic Pressure ≥ 40 mmHg, were excluded. Participants repeated PFTs approximately every 3 years. At the end of the follow-up period [median (IQR): 9.79 (2.78) years] patient vital status was recorded. Cox Regression analysis was used to identify predictors of deterioration of PFTs and 10-year survival. Median (IQR) age of 58 patients (90% women) at baseline was 54.0 (15.0) years, whereas 10-year survival was 88%. Baseline respiratory Oxygen uptake (VO₂max) predicted PFT deterioration, defined either as a decline in FVC ≥ 10% or a combined decline in FVC 5%-9% plus DLCO ≥ 15%, during follow-up, after correction for age, gender and smoking status (HR: 0.874, 95%CI: 0.779-0.979, p = 0.021). In addition, lower baseline VO₂max (HR = 0.861, 95%CI:0.739-1.003, p = 0.054) and DLCO (HR = 0.957, 95%CI: 0.910-1.006 p = 0.088), as well as male gender (HR = 5.68, 95%CI: 1.090-29.610 p = 0.039) and older age (HR = 1.069, 95%CI: 0.990-1.154, p = 0.086) were associated, after adjustment, with an increased risk for death. In the absence of baseline PH, CPET indices may predict pulmonary function deterioration and death in SSc patients during a nearly 10-year follow-up period.

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.

Systemic Sclerosis: Current State and Survival After Lung Transplantation

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by the involvement of skin and internal organs. With the introduction of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs), scleroderma renal crisis (SRC) is no longer considered a leading cause of death in affected patients. In fact, pulmonary manifestations [interstitial lung disease (ILD) and pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH)] are currently the major cause of death in patients with SSc. Historically, many centers have been reluctant to offer lung transplantation to patients with SSc due to multiple extrapulmonary manifestations and the assumption of poor post-transplant survival. The purpose of this review is to highlight the recent advances in the evaluation and management of patients with pulmonary manifestations of SSc. We also engage in a systematic literature review to assess all the available data on the survival of patients with SSc after lung transplantation.

Association between core stability and physical function, functional performance in patients with systemic sclerosis

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the association of core stability with physical function and functional performance in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc).

METHODS

Forty patients who met the American College of Rheumatology / European League Against Rheumatism 2013 classification criteria for SSc were included in the cross-sectional study. For evaluation of core stability, trunk muscle endurance and trunk muscle strength were assessed. Trunk extensor and trunk flexor endurance tests were used for assessment of trunk muscle endurance. Trunk muscle strength was measured with a hand-held dynamometer and modified sit-up test. To measure physical function the Health Assessment Questionnaire Disability Index (HAQ-DI) and to measure functional performance 6-minute walking test (6MWT) and sit-to-stand test (STS) were used.

RESULTS

Patients with SSc had lower mean trunk extensor and flexor endurance test times (49.87 ± 30.81 and 32.17 ± 15.42 seconds, respectively), modified sit-up test repetition (17.42 ± 7.81) and trunk extensor and flexor muscle strength (7.48 ± 2.29 kg and 6.20 ± 1.68 kg, respectively) when compared to the reference values in healthy individuals. All measurements were used to evaluate core stability associated with HAQ-DI score, 6DMWT walking distance and STS test duration (all P < .05).

CONCLUSION

Patients with SSc have markedly reduced core stability and this negatively affects the physical function and functional performance. Therefore, this study highlights the importance of trunk muscle in patients with SSc. We suggest that not only upper-lower extremity muscles, but also trunk muscle strength and endurance should be measured and core stability exercises can be added to the training programs to maintain and/or improve physical functions and functional performance in SSc patients.

Effect of a tailored home-based exercise program in patients with systemic sclerosis: A randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

The aim was to evaluate the effect of a home-based exercise program on functional capacity, health-related quality of life (HRQoL), and disability, in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc).

METHODS

A 6-month randomized controlled trial was conducted on SSc patients by comparing a home-based minimally supervised exercise program (exercise on a stationary cycle and strengthening of upper limbs; stretching of the hands) with usual care. At baseline and after 3 and 6 months, the patients underwent: 6 minutes walking test; hand mobility in scleroderma test; maximal exercise test on an ergocycle; strength measures (handgrip, quadriceps, and biceps). HRQoL (short-form 36 [SF-36]) and disability (health assessment questionnaire disability index [HAQ-DI]) were measured at the same time.

RESULTS

Forty-four patients participated in the study. Twenty-two were randomly assigned to the intervention group (IG, mean age 63.60 ± 10.40 years) and 22 to the control group (CG, 61.80 ± 14.40 years). At 6 months, the distance walked in 6 minutes increased by 46 m (baseline 486, 95% CI 458-513 m; 6 months 532, 95% CI 504-561 m) in IG, whereas it decreased by 5 m (baseline 464, 95% CI 431-497 m; 6 months 459, 95% CI 427-490 m) in CG with a significantly different temporal trend at the between-groups comparison (P < .001). An improvement was also observed for strength measures (handgrip, P = .003; quadriceps, P < .001; biceps, P < .001), for the SF-36 physical component score (P < .001) and for the HAQ-DI (P = .011).

CONCLUSIONS

This study indicates that in SSc patients, a minimally supervised home-based exercise program improves physical performance, quality of life, and disability in comparison with usual care.

Evaluating skeletal muscle mass with ultrasound in patients with systemic sclerosis

OBJECTIVES

Patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc) have an increased risk for loss of skeletal muscle mass. Ultrasonography (US) is a safe and promising method to evaluate muscle mass. In this study, we aimed to assess the frequency and clinical associations of low muscle mass status in patients with SSc, investigate the correlations between muscle mass sonographically measured regional muscle thicknesses (MTs), and explore the utility of US in predicting low muscle mass.

METHODS

A total of 93 patients with SSc (86 women) were included in the study. Appendicular skeletal muscle mass (ASM) was calculated using a bioelectric impedance analysis and adjusted for height² (ASM index, ASMI). Low muscle mass was defined as an ASMI of <7.26 kg/m² for men and <5.50 kg/m² for women. MT of the gastrocnemius medialis (GM), rectus femoris (RF), rectus abdominis (RA), external oblique (EO), internal oblique (IO), and transverse abdominis (TA) muscles were assessed by US. Correlations between ASMI and individual MTs were evaluated. Receiver operating characteristic analysis was used to determine the optimal cutoff values of MTs in predicting low muscle mass.

RESULTS

Low muscle mass was present in 13.9% of patients. Diffuse disease subset (53.8% vs 17.5%), antitopoisomerase-1 antibody positivity (76.9% vs 47.5%), and malnutrition (61.5% vs 8.8%) were more frequent in patients with low muscle mass (P < 0.05 for all). MTs of RA (0.54 vs 0.75 cm), TA (0.30 vs 0.34 cm), and GM (1.23 vs 1.51 cm) muscles were significantly lower in patients with low muscle mass (P < 0.05 for all). RA (r = 0.322; P = 0.002), external oblique (r = 0.310; P = 0.002), TA (r = 0.205; P = 0.049), and GM (r = 0.513; P < 0.001) MTs were positively correlated with ASMI. Selected cutoff values for GM and RA MTs showed the highest sensitivity (92.3% for both) and negative predictive value (97.9% and 97.6%, respectively) in predicting low muscle mass status (area under the curve: 0.846 and 0.760, respectively) in the receiver operating characteristic analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

Low muscle mass is prevalent in SSc and patients with diffuse disease are at particular risk for this condition. US measurement of abdominal and calf MTs may be used as a screening method to detect low muscle mass due to its high sensitivity and negative predictive value.

Fat Grafting for the Treatment of Scleroderma

BACKGROUND

Scleroderma is a chronic connective tissue disease that results in fibrosis of the skin and internal organs. Although internal organ involvement corresponds with poor prognosis, systemic agents are effective at improving the effects of scleroderma on internal organs. In contrast, skin manifestations are universally present in all patients diagnosed with scleroderma, yet no systemic agents have been shown to be successful. Fat grafting has been shown to improve skin quality and improve contour irregularities and may be helpful in the treatment of patients with scleroderma.

METHODS

The authors performed a thorough review of the pathophysiology of scleroderma and the current treatment options for scleroderma. The efficacy of fat grafting for the treatment of scleroderma and the mechanism by which fat grafting improves outcomes was also discussed.

RESULTS

Scleroderma is characterized by chronic inflammation and vascular compromise that leads to fibrosis of the skin and internal organs. Fat grafting has recently been the focus of significant basic science research. It has been shown to reduce inflammation, reduce fibrosis by limiting extracellular matrix proteins and increasing collagenase activity, and provide structural support through stem cell proliferation and differentiation. The adipocytes, adipose stem cells, endothelial cells, and vascular smooth muscle cells in the processed fat likely contribute to the effectiveness of this treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Fat grafting in scleroderma patients likely improves skin manifestations by recreating fullness, correcting contour deformities, and improving skin quality. The injected fat provides a mixture of cells that influences the recipient site, resulting in improved outcomes.

Systemic sclerosis - multidisciplinary disease: clinical features and treatment

Systemic sclerosis is a chronic autoimmune disease of still not fully understood pathogenesis. Fibrosis, vascular wall damage, and disturbances of innate and acquired immune responses with autoantibody production are prominent features. Systemic sclerosis has specific subsets with different autoantibodies, and differences in the affected skin areas. The suspicion of systemic sclerosis and establishing the diagnosis will be facilitated by the criteria created by EULAR/ACR experts. The treatment of this autoimmune disease remains a challenge for clinicians and new therapeutic options are constantly sought. The occurrence of various symptoms and the involvement of many organs and systems make systemic sclerosis a multidisciplinary disease and require a holistic approach. The present article summarizes different clinical features of systemic sclerosis and the profile of autoantibodies and discusses recent rules and future perspectives in disease management.

Physical or Occupational Therapy Use in Systemic Sclerosis: A Scleroderma Patient-centered Intervention Network Cohort Study

OBJECTIVE

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is characterized by significant disability because of musculoskeletal involvement. Physical and occupational therapy (PT/OT) have been suggested to improve function. However, the rate of PT/OT use has been shown to be low in SSc. We aimed to identify demographic, medical, and psychological variables associated with PT/OT use in SSc.

METHODS

Participants were patients with SSc enrolled in the Scleroderma Patient-centered Intervention Network (SPIN) Cohort. We determined the rate and indication of PT/OT use in the 3 months prior to enrollment. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify variables independently associated with PT/OT use.

RESULTS

Of the 1627 patients with SSc included in the analysis, 23% used PT/OT in the preceding 3 months. PT/OT use was independently associated with higher education (OR 1.08, 95% CI 1.04-1.12), having moderately severe small joint contractures (OR 2.09, 95% CI 1.45-3.03), severe large joint contractures (OR 2.33, 95% CI 1.14-4.74), fewer digital ulcerations (OR 0.70, 95% CI 0.51-0.95), and higher disability (OR 1.54, 95% CI 1.18-2.02) and pain scores (OR 1.04, 95% CI 1.02-1.06). The highest rate of PT/OT use was reported in France (43%) and the lowest, in the United States (17%).

CONCLUSION

Despite the potential of PT/OT interventions to improve function, < 1 in 4 patients with SSc enrolled in a large international cohort used PT/OT services in the last 3 months. Patients who used PT/OT had more severe musculoskeletal manifestations and higher pain and disability.

Inflammatory arthritis in systemic sclerosis: What to do?

Musculoskeletal involvement, including arthritis and tendinopathy, is a common and important determinant of disability and impaired quality of life in systemic sclerosis. However, the treatment of arthritis in systemic sclerosis has not been studied as a primary outcome in randomized controlled trials, and arthritis-specific outcome measures for systemic sclerosis have not been sufficiently validated to date. Rheumatologists caring for patients with systemic sclerosis must address these complaints regularly despite the fact that the level of evidence for the treatment of systemic sclerosis-related inflammatory arthritis is limited. Consensus statements, based on treatments for related musculoskeletal aspects of rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and other autoimmune diseases, support the use of methotrexate and hydroxychloroquine. Newer biologics, which have efficacy in the treatment of other autoimmune conditions, may show promise in the treatment of arthritis in systemic sclerosis. In this article, we review the current literature on the assessment and treatment of systemic sclerosis arthritis in order to address management considerations.

Scleroderma in Children and Adolescents: Localized Scleroderma and Systemic Sclerosis

Scleroderma is a rare disease that has two main forms: localized scleroderma (LS) and systemic sclerosis (SSc). Both are chronic diseases, can present in different patterns (subtypes), and are associated with extracutaneous involvement in pediatric patients. Morbidity and mortality is much worse for juvenile SSc with patients at risk for life-threatening lung, heart, and other visceral organ fibrosis and vasculopathy. Mortality is extremely rare in juvenile LS, but morbidity is common, with patients at risk for severe disfigurement and functional impairment. Scleroderma treatment is directed towards controlling inflammation and managing specific problems. Early diagnosis can greatly improve outcome.

Bone mineral density and microarchitecture linkages with micro- and macro-vascular impairments at the hand in systemic sclerosis: an HRpQCT study

Objective

To investigate the link between bone alteration and micro- and macro-vascular disease in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc).

Results

33 SSc patients were included. In univariate analysis, low values of cortical vBMD were significantly associated with a low DBI at the 2nd finger (p = 0.004) and at the 4th (p = 0.002) and with severe capillaroscopic score (p = 0.008). In multivariate analyses, low cortical vBMD was associated with a low DBI at the 4th finger, age and severe capillaroscopic score (adjusted R² = 0.58; p = < 0.001). Low cortical thickness was associated with a low DBI at the 4th finger, severe capillaroscopic score and age (adjusted R² = 0.49, p = < 0.001).

Conclusion

Our study findings showed an association between micro- and macro-vessel damage and altered microarchitectural indices at the radius in SSc.

Methods

We performed a pilot study in female patients with SSc. Microvascular disease was assessed by the capillaroscopic score of Cutolo. Macrovascular involvement was measured by digito-brachial pressure index (DBI) on laser-Doppler at the 2nd and 4th finger. Volumetric bone mineral density (vBMD) and bone microarchitecture involvement were analysed by High-Resolution peripheral Quantitative Computed Tomography (HRpQCT) at the distal radius.

Work productivity in systemic sclerosis, its economic burden and association with health-related quality of life

Objective

To evaluate work productivity and its economic burden in SSc patients.

Methods

Consecutive SSc patients enrolled in the Australian Scleroderma Cohort Study were mailed questionnaires assessing employment (Workers' Productivity and Activity Impairment Questionnaire and a custom-made questionnaire) and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) (36-item Short Form Health Survey and Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System 29). Linear regression methods were used to determine factors associated with work productivity.

Results

Among 476 patients submitting responses, 55.2% <65 years of age were employed. Unemployed patients were older at the time of survey completion (57.1 vs 53.7 years; P < 0.001) and had longer disease duration from first SSc clinical manifestation (16.2 vs 14.9 years; P = 0.01) than employed patients. The mean age at unemployment onset was 13.2 years below the average Australian retirement age. Of those working in the week prior to completing the survey, 16.0% reported missing work (absenteeism) due to their SSc, accounting for 32.9% of their working week. Reduced productivity while at work (presenteeism) accounted for 22% of their working week. Annual costs per patient as a consequence of unemployment and reduced productivity equated to a total of AUD$67 595.40. Factors independently associated with reduced work productivity were presence of synovitis and sicca symptoms, while tertiary education protected against work impairment. Patients with low HRQoL scores also had low work productivity.

Conclusion

SSc is associated with considerable unemployment and reduced productivity, which in turn is associated with a substantial economic burden and poor HRQoL. Raising awareness and identifying modifiable factors are possible ways of reducing this burden.

Systemic sclerosis

Systemic sclerosis, also called scleroderma, is an immune-mediated rheumatic disease that is characterised by fibrosis of the skin and internal organs and vasculopathy. Although systemic sclerosis is uncommon, it has a high morbidity and mortality. Improved understanding of systemic sclerosis has allowed better management of the disease, including improved classification and more systematic assessment and follow-up. Additionally, treatments for specific complications have emerged and a growing evidence base supports the use of immune suppression for the treatment of skin and lung fibrosis. Some manifestations of the disease, such as scleroderma renal crisis, pulmonary arterial hypertension, digital ulceration, and gastro-oesophageal reflux, are now treatable. However, the burden of non-lethal complications associated with systemic sclerosis is substantial and is likely to become more of a challenge. Here, we review the clinical features of systemic sclerosis and describe the best practice approaches for its management. Furthermore, we identify future areas for development.

Muscle function in women with systemic sclerosis: Association with fatigue and general physical function

BACKGROUND

Individuals with systemic sclerosis have muscle functions with varying degrees of muscle weakness and atrophy, which in turn can have a negative impact on functional and health-related quality of life. This study aimed to evaluate peripheral muscle performance using isokinetic dynamometry of the knee in women with systemic sclerosis and to correlate peripheral muscle dysfunction with disability levels and general fatigue.

METHODS

Twenty-six women with systemic sclerosis and a matched control group with an equal number of women underwent knee isokinetic dynamometry at angular speeds of 75°/s and 240°/s, isometric handgrip strength, the Health Assessment Questionnaire Disability Index, the Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-Fatigue scale, and the Fatigue Impact Scale.

FINDINGS

Women with systemic sclerosis showed significant reductions in almost all isokinetic parameters for the two angular velocities tested compared with the controls. An agonist/antagonist ratio with values <40% was observed in approximately one-third of the patients. These patients had lower isometric handgrip strength. These patients also performed worse on the two general fatigue scales evaluated. Significant correlations were observed between the isokinetic parameters and the measured isometric handgrip strength, and the Health Assessment Questionnaire Disability Index.

INTERPRETATION

Systemic sclerosis patients have reduced strength and endurance as well as a muscle imbalance between the quadriceps and hamstrings. In these patients, lower muscle dysfunction of the knee joint is associated with lower handgrip strength and physical incapacity.

Early Accrual of Organ Damage in Systemic Sclerosis: Rationale for Development of a Disease Damage Index

Introduction

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is characterized by irreversible organ damage rather than fluctuating disease activity. However, there is no validated measure of damage in SSc. We aimed to quantify the accrual of organ damage in patients with early SSc.

Methods

Patients enrolled in the Australian Scleroderma Cohort Study with less than 2 years of SSc since the onset of the first non-Raynaud's symptom were included. Organ damage was defined by a group of six experts as substantial and permanent loss of organ function due to SSc.

Results

We identified 278 patients with early SSc. Among these, 38% had diffuse SSc. Damage was more common in the diffuse than in the limited disease subtype in the skin/musculoskeletal (75% vs. 25.2%, p<0.001) and lung (31.4% vs. 19.9%, p = 0.035) domains at year seven. The rates of damage accrual were highest in the skin/musculoskeletal, gastrointestinal and respiratory systems at year two (29.1%, 18.7%, 14.4%), increasing at year five (41.4%, 30.6%, 21.2%) and declining thereafter to year seven (43.9%, 32.7%, 23.0%). In particular, there was early accrual of damage due to joint contracture (22.3%), gastrointestinal dysmotility (11.5%) and pulmonary fibrosis with forced vital capacity <70% predicted (9.7%) at year two. The highest accrual rate of organ-specific damage from years two to seven was seen in fecal incontinence followed by proximal muscle weakness and pulmonary fibrosis.

Conclusions

Substantial accrual of organ damage occurs early in the course of disease, particularly in diffuse SSc. This provides the rationale for the development of a SSc damage index.

Systemic sclerosis: Association between physical function, handgrip strength and pulmonary function

BACKGROUND

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a multisystem disease affecting the skin, respiratory system and skeletal muscles. In SSc patients, hand function disability is the major factor limiting daily activities.

AIM

To evaluate the association of physical function with handgrip strength and pulmonary function in SSc patients. A further aim was to assess the relationship between handgrip strength and pulmonary function in patients with SSc.

METHOD

A cross-sectional study in which 28 patients with SSc underwent isometric handgrip strength (IHGS) measurement and pulmonary function tests and completed the Health Assessment Questionnaire Disability Index (HAQ-DI) to measure physical function.

RESULTS

The HAQ-DI scores were associated with the IHGS (r_s = -0.599, P = 0.001) and pulmonary function parameters, particularly the diffusion capacity for carbon monoxide (DLco; r_s = -0.642, P = 0.0004).

CONCLUSION

In patients with SSc, the degree of physical disability is associated with both hand grip strength and pulmonary function. However, there is no relationship between handgrip strength and pulmonary function in these patients.

Hand Impairment in Systemic Sclerosis: Various Manifestations and Currently Available Treatment

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disease initially recognized by hand involvement due to characteristic Raynaud's phenomenon (RP), puffy hands, skin thickening, and contractures resembling claw deformities. SSc contributes to hand impairment through inflammatory arthritis, joint contractures, tendon friction rubs (TFRs), RP, digital ulcers (DU), puffy hands, skin sclerosis, acro-osteolysis, and calcinosis. These manifestations, which often co-exist, can contribute to difficulty with occupational activities and activities of daily living (ADL), which can result in impaired quality of life. However, despite this knowledge, most diagnostic and treatment principles in SSc are focused on visceral manifestations due to known associations with morbidity and mortality. Treatment of inflammatory arthritis is symptom based and involves corticosteroids ≤10mg daily, methotrexate, tumor necrosis factor inhibitors, tocilizumab, and abatacept. Small joint contractures are managed by principles of occupational hand therapy and rarely surgical procedures. TFRs may be treated similar to inflammatory arthritis with corticosteroids. All patients with RP and DU should keep digits covered and warm and avoid vasoconstrictive agents. Pharmacologic management of RP begins with use of calcium channel blockers, but additional agents that may be considered are fluoxetine and phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. DU management also involves vasodilators including calcium channel blockers and PDE5 inhibitors; bosentan has also been shown to prevent DU. In patients with severe RP and active DU, intravenous epoprostenol or iloprost can be used and surgical procedures, such as botulinum injections and digital sympathectomies, may be considered. For those with early diffuse cutaneous SSc needing immunosuppression for skin sclerosis, methotrexate or mycophenolate mofetil can be used, but the agent of choice depends on co-existing manifestations, such as inflammatory arthritis and/or lung involvement. Various pharmacologic agents for calcinosis have been considered but are generally ineffective; however, surgical options, including excision of areas of calcinosis, can be considered. Overall management of hand impairment for all patients with SSc should include occupational hand therapy techniques such as range of motion exercises, paraffin wax, and devices to assist in ADL. Thus, treatment options for the various manifestations contributing to hand impairment in SSc are limited and often modestly efficacious at best. Robust studies are needed to address the manifestations of SSc that contribute to hand impairment.

Histopathological findings in systemic sclerosis-related myopathy: fibrosis and microangiopathy with lack of cellular inflammation

OBJECTIVES

The objective of this study was to identify specific histopathological features of skeletal muscle involvement in systemic sclerosis (SSc) patients.

METHODS

A total of 35 out of 112 SSc-patients (32%, including 81% female and 68% diffuse scleroderma) presenting clinical, biological and electromyographic (EMG) features of muscle weakness, were included. Patients underwent vastus lateralis biopsy, assessed for individual pathologic features including fibrosis [type I collagen (Coll-I), transforming growth factor β (TGF-β)], microangiopathy [cluster of differentiation 31 (CD31), pro-angiogenic vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A), anti-angiogenic VEGF-A165b], immune/ inflammatory response [CD4, CD8, CD20, human leucocyte antigens ABC (HLA-ABC)], and membranolytic attack complex (MAC). SSc biopsies were compared with biopsies of (n = 35) idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIMs) and to (n = 35) noninflammatory myopathies (NIMs). Ultrastructural abnormalities of SSc myopathy were also analyzed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM).

RESULTS

Fibrosis in SSc myopathy (81%) is higher compared with IIM (32%, p < 0.05) and with NIM (18%, p < 0.05). Vascular involvement is dominant in SSc muscle (92%), and in IIM (78%) compared with NIM (21%, p < 0.05). In particular, CD31 shows loss of endomysial vessels in SSc myopathy compared with IIM (p < 0.05) and with NIM (p < 0.01). VEGF-A is downregulated in SSc myopathy compared with IIM (p < 0.05) and NIM (p < 0.05). Conversely, VEGF-A165b is upregulated in SSc myopathy. The SSc immune/inflammatory response suggested humoral process with majority (85%) HLA-ABC fibral neoexpression and complement deposits on endomysial capillaries MAC, compared with IIM (p < 0.05), characterized by CD4⁺/CD8⁺/B-cell infiltrate, and NIM (p < 0.05). TEM analysis showed SSc vascular alterations consisting of thickening and lamination of basement membrane and endothelial cell 'swelling' coupled to endomysial/perimysial fibrosis.

CONCLUSIONS

Fibrosis, microangiopathy and humoral immunity are predominant in SSc myopathy, even if it is difficult to identify specific histopathological hallmarks of muscle involvement in SSc, since they could be present also in other (IIM/NIM) myopathies.

Hand Impairment in Systemic Sclerosis: Various Manifestations and Currently Available Treatment

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disease initially recognized by hand involvement due to characteristic Raynaud's phenomenon (RP), puffy hands, skin thickening, and contractures resembling claw deformities. SSc contributes to hand impairment through inflammatory arthritis, joint contractures, tendon friction rubs (TFRs), RP, digital ulcers (DU), puffy hands, skin sclerosis, acro-osteolysis, and calcinosis. These manifestations, which often co-exist, can contribute to difficulty with occupational activities and activities of daily living (ADL), which can result in impaired quality of life. However, despite this knowledge, most diagnostic and treatment principles in SSc are focused on visceral manifestations due to known associations with morbidity and mortality. Treatment of inflammatory arthritis is symptom based and involves corticosteroids ≤10mg daily, methotrexate, tumor necrosis factor inhibitors, tocilizumab, and abatacept. Small joint contractures are managed by principles of occupational hand therapy and rarely surgical procedures. TFRs may be treated similar to inflammatory arthritis with corticosteroids. All patients with RP and DU should keep digits covered and warm and avoid vasoconstrictive agents. Pharmacologic management of RP begins with use of calcium channel blockers, but additional agents that may be considered are fluoxetine and phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. DU management also involves vasodilators including calcium channel blockers and PDE5 inhibitors; bosentan has also been shown to prevent DU. In patients with severe RP and active DU, intravenous epoprostenol or iloprost can be used and surgical procedures, such as botulinum injections and digital sympathectomies, may be considered. For those with early diffuse cutaneous SSc needing immunosuppression for skin sclerosis, methotrexate or mycophenolate mofetil can be used, but the agent of choice depends on co-existing manifestations, such as inflammatory arthritis and/or lung involvement. Various pharmacologic agents for calcinosis have been considered but are generally ineffective; however, surgical options, including excision of areas of calcinosis, can be considered. Overall management of hand impairment for all patients with SSc should include occupational hand therapy techniques such as range of motion exercises, paraffin wax, and devices to assist in ADL. Thus, treatment options for the various manifestations contributing to hand impairment in SSc are limited and often modestly efficacious at best. Robust studies are needed to address the manifestations of SSc that contribute to hand impairment.