Psoriatic arthritis: an update

The association between physical trauma and autoimmune articular and dermatological disorders

OBJECTIVE

This review investigates the association between physical trauma and the onset and progression of various inflammatory diseases, including psoriatic arthritis (PsA), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), spondyloarthropathies (SpA), and Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF). In addition, we will refer to the linkage between physical injury and skin manifestations in patients with psoriasis, sarcoidosis and systemic sclerosis. The aim is to summarize the current evidence and explore the potential mechanisms through which trauma may affect these conditions.

METHODS

A detailed literature review was conducted, focusing on studies linking physical trauma with the development of psoriasis, SpA, PsA, RA, FMF, systemic sclerosis and sarcoidosis. The review includes observational data, case reports, and experimental studies that highlight the impact of trauma on disease initiation and exacerbation.

RESULTS

Physical trauma is implicated in the pathogenesis of several dermatological and rheumatological conditions. Biomechanical stress and microdamage at entheses contribute to the development of SpA. In PsA, trauma is associated with the onset of enthesitis and arthritis, supported by increased prevalence in affected patients and is often regarded as "deep Koebner phenomenon". The Koebner phenomenon links skin trauma with psoriasis, where new lesions appear at injury sites. RA shows a notable association with physical trauma, with retrospective studies suggesting that trauma can trigger disease onset, although the exact mechanisms remain unclear. The concept of the synovio-entheseal complex is discussed in order to elucidate how mechanical stress and immune responses interplay in SpA. Physical exertion or injury might precipitate FMF attacks, though existing data remain limited. Sarcoidosis has been linked to tattoo-related trauma, suggesting a potential role of localized injury in sarcoid-like reactions. Several case reports describe the occurrence of dermatologic manifestations of scleroderma, including morphea in patients with localized disease and perifollicular hypopigmentation in patients with systemic sclerosis.

CONCLUSION

This review consolidates current evidence on the relationship between physical trauma and various inflammatory conditions, emphasizing the need for further research to fully understand these connections. These findings highlight the importance of considering trauma in the clinical management of these diseases and suggest avenues for future investigation.

Adherence to therapy of ixekizumab and secukinumab in psoriatic arthritis patients using first- or second-line IL-17A inhibitor treatment: a Danish population-based cohort study

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effectiveness and tolerability of first- and second-line interleukin (IL)-17A inhibitor treatment in PsA patients from 2014 to 2021 using data from the Danish Rheumatology Registry (DANBIO) by investigating adherence to therapy.

METHOD

PsA patients recorded in the DANBIO who received a first- or second-line IL-17A inhibitor treatment were included in this study. All patients included had previously received one or more TNF inhibitor treatment. Baseline characteristics were analysed in subgroups as first-line IL-17A inhibitor treatment and second-line IL-17A inhibitor treatment. Adherence to therapy of first- or second-line IL-17A inhibitor treatments was reported as Kaplan-Meier plots.

RESULTS

A total of 534 patients were included in the study, with 534 first-line switchers (secukinumab: 510, ixekizumab: 24) and 102 second-line switchers (secukinumab: 35, ixekizumab: 67). Baseline characteristics showed a similar HAQ and visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain. VAS global, 28-joint DAS with CRP and the previous number of biologic DMARD treatments were similar, with a greater value for second-line switchers. First-line ixekizumab-treated patients present a younger age, greater percentage of females, a lower disease duration and a lower CRP value. Concomitant MTX use was greater for the first-line secukinumab-treated patients. First- and second-line switchers had a similar adherence to therapy. Second-line secukinumab and second-line ixekizumab switchers showed a similar adherence to treatment.

CONCLUSION

PsA patients receiving first- or second-line IL-17A inhibitors showed homogeneous baseline characteristics and similar adherence to therapy. Treatment failure of the first IL-17A inhibitor treatment should not preclude a second-line IL-17A inhibitor treatment.

A Cross-Indication Budget Impact Model of Secukinumab for the Treatment of Psoriasis, Psoriatic Arthritis, Ankylosing Spondylitis and Non-radiographic Axial Spondyloarthritis in Italy

BACKGROUND

Recent developments improved outcomes in patients with autoimmune diseases. Biologics were approved as first-line treatment in selected naïve patients with plaque psoriasis (PsO), psoriatic arthritis (PsA), ankylosing spondylitis (AS) and non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis (nr-axSpA). Among them, secukinumab was most recently approved for treatment of active nr-axSpA in adults. In this work, we assessed the budget impact of new secukinumab treatment options in the Italian market.

METHODS

A cross-indication budget impact model was designed to estimate the effects of adding secukinumab in the Italian market from the National Health System perspective over a 3-year period. The model included all adults with PsO, PsA, AS and nr-axSpA, treated with biologics or biosimilars. It compared costs between two scenarios, secukinumab availability or absence, for the four diseases combined and taken individually. A sensitivity analyses was conducted.

RESULTS

There were 68,121 adult patients treated with biologics in 2021 and 68,341 in 2023. The budget impact analysis (BIA) on all indications showed a cost reduction of €33.7 million (- 1.5%) over 3 years with the introduction of secukinumab. PsA patients had the highest saving (- €34.9 million), followed by PsO patients (- €7.8 million). Cost saving in PsO patients was balanced by increased budget reported in AS patients (+ €8.0 million). In nr-axSpA patients, secukinumab reported no significant budget increase (+ 1.0%).

CONCLUSION

This BIA accounted for the new indication of secukinumab in nr-axSpA patients, reporting no significant changes in the required budget and adding an effective treatment option. Considering all indications, secukinumab is a sustainable treatment option.

Periods of psoriatic arthritis onset and diagnosis in Russian patients with moderate to severe psoriasis (according to psoriasis patient registry)

Background: Early detection of psoriatic arthritis in patients with psoriasis remains an unmet medical need. Early diagnosis and treatment initiation in patients with psoriatic arthritis decreases the risk of adverse outcomes and improves patients quality of life. Aims: to describe a period between psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis onset and a period between psoriatic arthritis onset and diagnosis in Russian patients with moderate to severe psoriasis. Materials and methods: analysis of data from the psoriasis patient registry. Patients aged 18 years and older with an established diagnosis of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis were included in the analysis. Exclusion criteria: no data on timing of psoriatic arthritis onset or diagnosis. Results: sample size for the descriptive characteristic of period between psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis onset was 891 patients; sample size for the descriptive characteristic of period between psoriatic arthritis onset and diagnosis was 849 patients. Psoriatic arthritis onset preceeded cutaneous manifestation of psoriasis in 2.5% of patients. Concurrent onset of cutaneous psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis (within one year) had 10.7% of patients. In 86.8% of patients, cutaneous manifestation of psoriasis preceded manifestation of psoriatic arthritis. Exclusively of patients with psoriatic arthritis developed before or concurrently with cutaneous manifestation of psoriasis, the mean duration of period between psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis onset was 13.7 10.3 years, the median [IQR] 12 [6-19] years. In 24% of patients with psoriatic arthritis the was 1 year or more after its onset. On average, in this subgroup of patients, psoriatic arthritis was diagnosed 3.95.0 years after the signs and/or symptoms onset. Median [IQR] of period between psoriatic arthritis onset and diagnosis was 2 [1-4.5] years. Conclusions: a diagnostic delay in 24% Russian patients with psoriatic arthritis is one year or more. The average delay in diagnosis of psoriatic arthritis is about 4 years.

Safety of Apremilast in Patients with Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis: Findings from the UK Clinical Practice Research Datalink

INTRODUCTION

This real-world safety analysis was requested by the European Medicines Agency following approval of apremilast, an oral treatment for psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to compare incidence rates of adverse events of special interest identified a priori, in patients receiving apremilast with those receiving other systemic treatments for psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis.

METHODS

This 5-year cohort study was conducted in Clinical Practice Research Datalink GOLD between January 2015 and June 2020. Incidence rates of adverse events of special interest were estimated for four matched cohorts: apremilast-exposed and three matched non-apremilast cohorts (oral only, injectable only, and oral and injectable psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis treatments).

RESULTS

The apremilast-exposed cohort included 341 patients and the three non-apremilast cohorts included 4981 patients. There were no incident cases of vasculitis, hematologic malignancy, non-melanoma skin malignancy, treated depression, treated anxiety, or suicidal behaviors in the apremilast-exposed cohort during the follow-up. Similar incidence rates of all-cause mortality, major adverse cardiac events, tachyarrhythmias, and solid malignancies were recorded in the apremilast and non-apremilast cohorts. The incidence rate (95% confidence interval) per 1000 person-years of opportunistic and serious infections in the apremilast-exposed cohort (64 [40-102])) was similar to incidence rates in the oral (50 [42-60]) and oral and injectable non-apremilast cohorts (57 [47-69]), while the incidence rates were lower in the injectable treatment-only cohort (20 [10-41]). Limitations include small numbers of apremilast-exposed patients and potential exposure misclassification partly owing to missing information on biologic and other specialty treatment use.

CONCLUSIONS

No new apremilast safety signals were identified in this study. These results provide evidence that the long-term safety of apremilast in psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis in a real-world setting is comparable to that reported in clinical trials.

Real-World Efficacy and Safety of Apremilast in Belgian Patients with Psoriatic Arthritis: Results from the Prospective Observational APOLO Study

Introduction

Apremilast is approved for the treatment of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis (PsA). Real-world evidence on the efficacy and safety of apremilast in clinical practice is limited. We assessed the use of apremilast in patients with PsA in Belgium clinical practice.

Methods

The multicentre, observational, prospective APOLO study enrolled patients with active PsA initiating apremilast in Belgium between April 2017 and December 2018. Primary outcome was PsA Response Criteria (PsARC) after 6 months of apremilast treatment. Secondary outcomes included PsA Impact of Disease 12 (PsAID12) and Health Assessment Questionnaire Disability Index (HAQ-DI). Disease-specific outcomes and patient-reported outcomes (PROs) were analysed for patients who received apremilast within 30 days prior to their study inclusion and completed at least 150 days of treatment (reference set [REF]).

Results

Of 107 patients enrolled in the study, 106 received at least one dose of apremilast and 69 were included in the REF. PsARC response was achieved by 43.5% of patients (30/69) in the REF at month 6; mean global and composite scores including 68-joint count for pain/tenderness (68-TJC) and 66-joint count for swelling (66-SJC) improved, and 27% and 42% of patients with 68-TJC and 66-SJC > 0 at baseline had complete joint count resolution, respectively. Mean global and composite PsAID12 and HAQ-DI scores decreased at 6 months, indicating improved quality of life. Apremilast was well tolerated and the reported adverse events were in line with the known safety profile.

Conclusion

Results from the APOLO study indicate that treatment with apremilast in Belgian clinical practice improves the signs and symptoms of PsA as well as patient quality of life.

Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier

NCT03096990.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12325-021-02016-x.

Treatment with Ixekizumab Following Secukinumab Failure in Patients with Psoriatic Arthritis: Real-Life Experience from a Resistant Population

Objective

To assess the clinical response to ixekizumab following secukinumab failure in patients with psoriatic arthritis.

Methods

A retrospective multi-center observational study included psoriatic arthritis (PsA) patients with a history of treatment with secukinumab, further treated with ixekizumab. Primary endpoint was primary response to treatment (drug survival > 6 months); secondary endpoints were changes in disease activity indices from initiation of ixekizumab to 6 and 12 months later and overall drug survival.

Results

Of 23 PsA patients, 86% (n = 20) received more than two TNF inhibitors (TNFi). Median secukinumab treatment time was 15 months (IQR 10–21.5 months). Subsequently, 19 patients (83%) had a primary response to ixekizumab. Overall treatment duration during follow-up period for primary responders was 14 months (IQR 10–20.5). Reasons for ixekizumab cessation were worsening psoriasis (27%), peripheral arthritis (27%), both (47%), worsening of axial disease (13%), and adverse events (6%). Articular disease indices including Disease Activity Index for Psoriatic Arthritis (DAPSA), tender joints count (TJC) and Simplified Disease Activity Index (SDAI) were significantly lower at 6 and 12 months (DAPSA 1.5–2 levels reduction; p = 0.018 and 1–1.5 levels reduction; p = 0.031, respectively; TJC −2.16 [−4.0, −0.3]; p = 0.025 and −1.69 [−3.09, −0.28]; p = 0.022, respectively; SDAI −10.13 [−16.4, −3.8], p = 0.003 and −12.2 [−17.1, −7.2], p = 0.0002, respectively). PASI75 at 6 and 12 months was achieved by 63% and 57%, respectively, and PASI100 at 6 and 12 months by 31% and 21%, respectively.

Conclusion

Patients with resistant PsA, including inadequate response to secukinumab, demonstrated a good response to ixekizumab, albeit limited on time. Within class switch from secukinumab to ixekizumab may be a plausible therapeutic option in PsA patients following secukinumab failure.

Effects of Dietary Protein Intake on Cutaneous and Systemic Inflammation in Mice with Acute Experimental Psoriasis

Background: Psoriasis is a systemic inflammatory disorder, primarily characterized by skin plaques. It is linked to co-morbidities including cardiovascular disease and metabolic syndrome. Several studies demonstrate that dietary habits can influence psoriasis development and severity. However, the effect of different dietary protein levels on psoriasis development and severity is poorly understood. In this study, we examine the influence of dietary protein on psoriasis-like skin disease in mice. Methods: We fed male C57BL/6J mice with regular, low protein and high protein chow for 4 weeks. Afterwards, we induced psoriasis-like skin disease by topical imiquimod (IMQ)-treatment on ear and back skin. The local cutaneous and systemic inflammatory response was investigated using flow cytometry analysis, histology and quantitative rt-PCR. Results: After 5 days of IMQ-treatment, both diets reduced bodyweight in mice, whereas only the high protein diet slightly aggravated IMQ-induced skin inflammation. IMQ-treatment induced infiltration of myeloid cells, neutrophils, and monocytes/macrophages into skin and spleen independently of diet. After IMQ-treatment, circulating neutrophils and reactive oxygen species were increased in mice on low and high protein diets. Conclusion: Different dietary protein levels had no striking effect on IMQ-induced psoriasis but aggravated the systemic pro-inflammatory phenotype.

Relationship of pain and fatigue with health-related quality of life and work in patients with psoriatic arthritis on TNFi: results of a multi-national real-world study

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE

The incidence of pain and/or fatigue in people with psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is associated with reduced health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and the ability to work, despite modern advanced therapeutic approaches. This real-world, international study examined these relationships in patients with PsA treated with tumour necrosis factor inhibitors (TNFi).

METHODS

Data from 13 countries were analysed. Patients with PsA and their physicians completed questionnaires capturing demographics, current therapy, current disease status, HRQoL and work status via Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short-Form version 2 (SF-36v2), 3-level 5-dimension EuroQoL questionnaire, Health Assessment Questionnaire Disability Index, and Work Productivity and Activity Impairment (WPAI) questionnaire.

RESULTS

640 patients with PsA were included who had been receiving TNFi for ≥3 months and had completed SF-36v2 bodily pain and vitality domains. Of these, 33.1%, 29.2% and 37.7% of patients reported no, moderate and severe pain, respectively, and 31.9%, 22.5% and 45.6% of patients reported low, moderate and severe fatigue, respectively. Scores across HRQoL variables and WPAI were significantly different across pain and fatigue cohorts (all p<0.0001), with HRQoL and WPAI measures considerably worse in patients with moderate to severe pain or fatigue than those with low pain or fatigue.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite treatment with biologic agents such as TNFi, data from this global study demonstrated that substantial pain and/or fatigue persist in patients with PsA and that these are significantly associated with reduced HRQoL, physical function and work productivity. These findings suggest that there is an unmet need for additional PsA therapies.

Understanding the association between skin involvement and joint activity in patients with psoriatic arthritis: experience from the Corrona Registry

Objective

To compare the characteristics of patients with psoriatic arthritis among patient groups stratified by degree of skin and joint involvement, and to evaluate the relationship between skin severity and joint activity.

Methods

Body surface area (BSA) and Clinical Disease Activity Index (CDAI) at enrolment were analysed. Patient characteristics were stratified by skin severity and joint activity. Baseline patient characteristics, clinical and disease characteristics and patient-reported outcomes were compared. The strength of the relationship of skin severity and joint activity was evaluated using methods for categorical variables (χ² test, Cramer's V) and continuous variables (linear regression).

Results

1542 adult patients in the Corrona Psoriatic Arthritis/Spondyloarthritis Registry enrolled between 21 May 2013 and 20 September 2016 were analysed. Most patients in the BSA >3%/CDAI moderate/high subgroup had worse clinical and patient-reported outcomes. A significant (p<0.001) modest association (Cramer's V=0.1639) between skin severity and joint activity was observed among all patients at enrolment. Patients with higher skin severity were two times more likely to have higher joint involvement (OR 2.27, 95% CI 1.71 to 3.01). A significant linear relationship between CDAI and BSA was observed. Effect modification showed this linear relationship was modified by age, gender, insurance, work status, current therapy, Health Assessment Questionnaire, Nail visual analogue scale, minimal disease activity, dactylitis count, patient-reported pain and fatigue.

Conclusion

Skin severity is modestly correlated with joint activity, and patients with higher skin severity are two times more likely to have increased joint involvement. Clinicians need to address both skin severity and joint activity in treatment decisions.

Therapeutic benefit of apremilast on enthesitis and dactylitis in patients with psoriatic arthritis: a pooled analysis of the PALACE 1-3 studies

Objective

The Psoriatic Arthritis Long-term Assessment of Clinical Efficacy (PALACE) clinical trial programme findings demonstrated that apremilast, an oral phosphodiesterase 4 inhibitor, is effective for treating psoriatic arthritis (PsA). Enthesitis and dactylitis are difficult-to-treat features of PsA leading to disability and affecting quality of life. PALACE 1, 2 and 3 data were pooled to assess the efficacy of apremilast on enthesitis and dactylitis outcomes in patients with these conditions at baseline.

Methods

Patients with enthesitis (n=945) or dactylitis (n=633) at baseline were analysed after receiving double-blind treatment with placebo, apremilast 30 mg two times per day or apremilast 20 mg two times per day up to 52 weeks and continuing up to 5 years. Data were analysed through 156 weeks. Enthesitis was evaluated by Maastricht Ankylosing Spondylitis Enthesitis Score (MASES) and dactylitis via dactylitis count.

Results

At week 24, patients receiving apremilast 30 mg two times per day demonstrated a significantly greater mean change in enthesitis (−1.3 vs −0.9; p<0.05) and dactylitis (−1.8 vs −1.3; p<0.01) vs placebo. Patients in the 30 mg dose group showed significantly greater mean (−23.6% vs −7.0%; p<0.05) and median (−50.0% vs −21.1%; p<0.05) per cent changes in MASES; mean and median per cent changes in dactylitis count were numerically, but not significantly, different for either apremilast dose in patients with dactylitis. In the patient population remaining on apremilast, observed mean and median improvements in both conditions were sustained through 156 weeks.

Conclusion

Apremilast is effective for the treatment of active PsA, including improvements in enthesitis and dactylitis up to 3 years.

Trial registration numbers

NCT01172938, NCT01212757 and NCT01212770.

Targeting IL-17 in psoriatic arthritis

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a chronic and progressive inflammatory arthritis intimately associated with psoriasis, and can be an impairing disease that leads to reduced quality of life and significant morbidity. Treatment often requires TNF antagonists, yet many patients with PsA are not responsive to the standard anti-TNF therapies. The interleukin-17 (IL-17)/IL-17 receptor (IL-17R) family has recently been implicated in the pathogenesis of PsA and psoriasis. Much enthusiasm has been generated for the development of biologics that target the IL-17 signaling pathway directly or indirectly, many of which have produced striking results in the setting of psoriasis and PsA. Herein, we review the role of IL-17 and the IL-17 receptor (IL-17R) in the pathogenesis of PsA, as well as the clinical evidence for IL-17 and IL-17R targeted therapeutics.

Rebound in Measures of Disease Activity and Symptoms in Corrona Registry Patients with Psoriatic Arthritis Who Discontinue Tumor Necrosis Factor Inhibitor Therapy after Achieving Low Disease Activity

OBJECTIVE

Rebound may occur in patients with psoriatic arthritis (PsA) who discontinue TNF inhibitor (TNFi) therapy in low disease activity (LDA).

METHODS

Using physician and patient reports, we quantified rebound following TNFi discontinuation [defined as Clinical Disease Activity Index (CDAI) score > 10 or TNFi restart] and time to rebound in adults with PsA in LDA (CDAI score ≤ 10) at TNFi discontinuation.

RESULTS

Rebound occurred in 73% (69/94) of patients soon after discontinuation (median time to rebound 8.0 mos, 95% CI 6.0-12.0).

CONCLUSION

Rebound occurred frequently in patients with PsA after TNFi discontinuation. TNFi discontinuation after achieving LDA should be carefully considered.

Physical trauma recorded in primary care is associated with the onset of psoriatic arthritis among patients with psoriasis

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the risk of psoriatic arthritis (PsA) among patients with psoriasis exposed to physical trauma.

METHODS

A matched cohort study was performed using data from The Health Improvement Network (THIN). Patients with psoriasis exposed to trauma were randomly matched to up to five unexposed psoriasis controls based on gender, age, duration of psoriasis and the date of entry into THIN. Trauma exposure was stratified into subgroups of joint, bone, nerve and skin trauma. Cox proportional hazard models were used to estimate the HRs for developing PsA. For comparison, an identical analysis was performed in the entire THIN population evaluating rheumatoid arthritis (RA) risk following physical trauma.

RESULTS

Patients with psoriasis exposed to trauma (N=15 416) and matched unexposed patients (N=55 230) were followed for a total of 425 120 person-years during which 1010 incident PsA cases were recorded. Adjusting for potential confounders, patients with psoriasis exposed to trauma had an increased risk of PsA compared with controls, with a multivariate HR of 1.32 (95% CI 1.13 to 1.54). In our subset analysis, bone and joint trauma were associated with multivariate HRs of 1.46 (95% CI 1.04 to 2.04) and 1.50 (95% CI 1.19 to 1.90), respectively; while nerve and skin trauma were not associated with a statistically significant increase in risk compared with controls. Patients exposed to trauma in the entire THIN population did not have an increased risk of developing RA: HR 1.04 (95% CI 0.99 to 1.10).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with psoriasis exposed to physical trauma are at an increased risk of developing PsA.

Psoriasis for the primary care practitioner

Primary care practitioners (PCPs) are playing an increasingly important role in the management and care of psoriasis. Thus, it is important for PCPs to be knowledgeable about the disease and to be able to differentiate between common myths and facts related to diagnosis and treatment. By building relationships with their patients and working collaboratively with dermatology health professionals and other specialists, PCPs can facilitate communication about the patient's treatment preferences and expectations for symptom relief, and they may be better able to work with the patient to optimize treatment adherence. This review aims to provide PCPs with a primer on psoriasis, its associated comorbidities, and its impact on patients' quality of life. Discussion topics include psoriasis epidemiology, triggering factors, clinical presentation, differential diagnosis, comorbidities, and approaches to treatment. This review also highlights the importance of staying abreast of advances in the understanding of psoriasis pathogenesis as well as emerging therapeutic treatment options, because these advances may change the treatment landscape and increase patients' expectations for skin clearance.

Repository corticotropin injection in patients with refractory psoriatic arthritis: a case series

PURPOSE

Although numerous treatment options are available for patients with psoriatic arthritis (PsA), a need for effective and tolerable treatments remains for patients with refractory disease who have failed previous therapies and continue to experience tender and/or swollen joints, pain, and disease activity. Repository corticotropin injection (RCI) is believed to produce steroidogenic, steroid-independent, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects in patients with rheumatic disorders, such as PsA. Limited literature exists on the use of RCI in patients with refractory PsA. The objective of this case series is to provide information on the clinical features of patients with refractory PsA and their response to RCI.

PATIENTS

Nine patients treated with RCI for refractory PsA were retrospectively identified and included in the case series.

RESULTS

All the nine patients experienced at least transient improvements in their active skin and joint disease. In some patients, it was necessary to titrate the RCI to an appropriate dose. RCI was used in some patients to bridge with another PsA therapy, such as apremilast or certolizumab. RCI was well tolerated, but discontinued in three patients due to preexisting conditions (hypertension and hyperglycemia).

CONCLUSION

RCI may be a safe and effective option for patients with refractory PsA who failed therapy with multiple previous treatments.

Chondrocyte activity is increased in psoriatic arthritis and axial spondyloarthritis

Background

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) and axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) are chronic inflammatory rheumatic diseases with complex origins. Both are characterized by altered extracellular matrix remodeling in joints and entheses that results in destructive and osteochondral proliferative lesions. There is a need for biomarkers reflecting core disease pathways for diagnosis and disease mapping. Pro-C2 reflects mature cartilage collagen type IIB formation, while C-Col10 represents turnover of type X collagen, which is exclusively expressed by hypertrophic chondrocytes. The objectives of this study were to study cartilage metabolism in axSpA and PsA by assessing Pro-C2 and C-Col10 and to evaluate their diagnostic utility against a healthy reference population.

Methods

Patients with PsA (n = 101) or axSpA (n = 110) were recruited consecutively from three rheumatology outpatient clinics. Demographic and clinical disease measures were recorded. Pro-C2 and C-Col10 were quantified in serum by using newly developed and specific competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays based on monoclonal antibodies. One-way analysis of variance and Tukey’s multiple comparison tests were performed on log-transformed data. ROC curve analysis was carried out to evaluate their discriminative power.

Results

Pro-C2 levels in serum were significantly increased in both axSpA (median concentration 1.11 ng/ml, 0.67–1.64) and PsA (median concentration 1.03 ng/ml, 0.53–1.47) compared with healthy controls (median concentration 0.30 ng/ml, 0.16–0.41) (p < 0.0001). Pro-C2 did not differ according to treatment. C-Col10 was slightly but equally elevated in the PsA and axSpA groups vs. the control group, but it was significantly lower in patients with axSpA undergoing tumor necrosis factor-α inhibitor (TNFi) treatment. ROC curve analysis revealed AUCs of 0.85 (95 % CI 0.79–0.89) for axSpA and 0.81 (95 % CI 0.75–0.86) for PsA.

Conclusions

These findings indicate that cartilage collagen metabolism was enhanced in the axSpA and PsA groups compared with the healthy control group. The lower C-Col10 level in patients with axSpA undergoing TNFi treatment may reflect that hypertrophic chondrocytes in axSpA are targeted by TNFi. ROC curve analysis showed a diagnostic potential for Pro-C2 in axSpA and PsA.

Promoting patient-centred care in psoriatic arthritis: a multidisciplinary European perspective on improving the patient experience

Patients with psoriatic arthritis (PsA) may not be optimally treated. The impact of the disease extends beyond skin and joint symptoms, impairing quality of life. This indicates that the adoption of a patient-focused approach to PsA management is necessary. An expert multidisciplinary working group was convened, with the objective of developing an informed perspective on current best practice and needs for the future management of PsA. Topics of discussion included the barriers to current best practice and calls to action for the improvement of three areas in PsA management: early and accurate diagnosis of PsA, management of disease progression and management of the impact of the condition on the patient. The working group agreed that, to make best use of the available of diagnostic tools, clinical care recommendations and effective treatments, there is a clear need for healthcare professionals from different disciplines to collaborate in the management of PsA. By facilitating appropriate and rapid referral, providing high quality information about PsA and its treatment to patients, and actively involving patients when choosing management plans and setting treatment goals, management of PsA can be improved. The perspective of the working group is presented here, with recommendations for the adoption of a multidisciplinary, patient-focused approach to the management of PsA.

Investigation of Enthesopathy with Ultrasonography and Comparison with Skin Findings in Asymptomatic Psoriatic Patients

BACKGROUND

Joint involvement associated with psoriasis is referred to as psoriatic arthritis. A late diagnosis of psoriatic arthritis may cause a variety of morbidities; therefore, an early diagnosis and treatment of psoriatic arthritis are required. Asymptomatic psoriatic arthritis has been found in 8-70% of patients with psoriasis using imaging techniques.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate joint and enthesis regions by ultrasonography in patients with psoriasis without inflammatory joint symptoms to detect subclinical psoriatic arthritis.

METHODS

We included 50 psoriasis patients and 30 healthy control subjects without joint complaint in this study. Twelve joint regions of all subjects in each group were examined by ultrasonography.

RESULTS

The presence of any pathological ultrasonography finding (30%) was higher but did not significantly differ in psoriasis patients compared with the control group (13.33%; p > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Although statistically not significant, the pathological ultrasonography findings were approximately twofold more common in patients with psoriasis compared with the control group. Therefore, the development of psoriatic arthritis in patients with psoriasis should be more closely followed.

Improvement in Psoriasis Signs and Symptoms Assessed by the Psoriasis Symptom Inventory with Brodalumab Treatment in Patients with Psoriatic Arthritis

Objective.

To evaluate the effect of brodalumab on psoriasis signs and symptoms assessed by the Psoriasis Symptom Inventory (PSI) in patients with psoriatic arthritis (PsA).

Methods.

This prespecified analysis of a phase II study (NCT01516957) evaluated patients with active PsA and psoriasis-affected body surface area ≥ 3%, randomized to brodalumab (140 or 280 mg) or placebo every 2 weeks (Q2W) for 12 weeks with loading dose at Week 1. At Week 12, patients entering an open-label extension received brodalumab 280 mg Q2W. The PSI measures 8 psoriasis signs and symptoms: itch, redness, scaling, burning, stinging, cracking, flaking, and pain. PSI response is defined as total PSI ≤ 8 (range 0–32), each item ≤ 1 (range 0–4). PSI scores were assessed at weeks 12 and 24.

Results.

There were 107 eligible patients. At Week 12, mean improvement in PSI scores was 7.8, 11.2, and 1.5 in brodalumab 140 mg, 280 mg, and placebo groups, respectively; by Week 24, improvement was 10.2, 12.4, and 11.7. At Week 12, 75.0%, 81.8%, and 16.7% of patients receiving brodalumab 140 mg, 280 mg, and placebo, respectively, achieved PSI response; improvement was sustained through Week 24, when 83.9% of prior placebo recipients achieved response. At Week 12, 25.0%, 36.4%, and 2.8% of patients receiving brodalumab 140 mg, 280 mg, and placebo, respectively, achieved PSI 0. Percentages improved through Week 24: 40.0% brodalumab 140 mg, 42.9% brodalumab 280 mg, and 48.4% placebo.

Conclusion.

Significantly more brodalumab-treated patients with PsA achieved patient-reported improvements in psoriasis signs and symptoms than did those receiving placebo. Improvements were comparable between brodalumab groups.

Serum level of receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand in patients with psoriasis

BACKGROUND

Psoriasis usually precedes the onset of psoriatic arthritis by an average of 10 years in about 70% of patients. Receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand (RANKL) is a natural and necessary surface-bound molecule, which is a ligand for osteoprotegrin and functions as a key factor for osteoclast differentiation and activation.

OBJECTIVE

Evaluation of the serum level of RANKL in psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis and its correlation with severity of the disease as a trial to predict the occurrence of psoriatic arthritis in such patients.

METHOD

This study included 80 subjects; 40 patients had chronic plaque psoriasis, 20 patients had chronic plaque psoriasis with psoriatic arthritis, and 20 were healthy controls. Patients with psoriasis were divided into three subgroups according to psoriasis area severity index score: mild, moderate, and severe. Serum RANKL levels were estimated for all subjects using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

RESULTS

Serum RANKL level in psoriatic arthritis was significantly higher compared to both patients with plaque psoriasis and control groups. Serum RANKL level significantly correlated to the severity of psoriasis, with a very high correlation coefficient in groups I and II. The diagnostic performance of serum RANKL level for the early prediction of psoriatic arthritis in patients with psoriasis was >170 pg/ml.

CONCLUSION

Serum RANKL level could be considered as a useful diagnostic marker for the early prediction of psoriatic arthritis in patients with moderate and severe psoriasis. Assessment of soluble RANKL in psoriasis could identify those at increased risk for psoriatic arthritis, and anti-RANKL agents may be effective in decreasing incidence of psoriatic arthritis.

An evolution in switching therapy for psoriasis patients who fail to meet treatment goals

Switching psoriasis treatment is a common, accepted practice that is used to improve disease management and improve patient outcomes (e.g., when patients are experiencing suboptimal efficacy and/or tolerability with a given therapy). Historically, switching treatment was often performed to limit patients’ cumulative exposure to conventional systemic agents (e.g., methotrexate, cyclosporine) with the goal of reducing end‐organ toxicity. However, the practice of switching treatments has evolved in recent years with the availability of highly effective and tolerable biologic agents. In current practice, near‐complete skin clearance with minimal side effects should be a realistic treatment goal for most patients with moderate‐to‐severe psoriasis, and consideration for switching therapies has shifted to become more focused on achieving maximum possible skin clearance, enhanced quality of life, and improved patient satisfaction. This review provides a discussion of recent guidance on switching psoriasis therapies, including initial considerations for when switching therapy may be advisable and challenges associated with switching therapy, along with an overview of published clinical studies evaluating outcomes associated with switching therapy. The goal of this review is to empower dermatologists to optimally manage their patients’ psoriasis by providing the tools needed to develop rational strategies for switching treatments based on the pharmacologic characteristics of available treatments and each patient's clinical needs and treatment preferences.

Oral psoriasis-a diagnostic dilemma: a report of two cases and a review of the literature

Whether psoriasis can manifest itself in the oral mucosa has been a matter of debate for many years. If an oral version of psoriasis exists, most researchers regard this manifestation as rare. The present report describes two patients who presented with lesions possibly related to cutaneous psoriasis. One patient had patchy erythematous lesions on the gingiva, and one had serpiginous lesions in the hard palate. We discuss these cases in relation to the existing literature, with special emphasis on the clinical and histopathologic criteria for the diagnosis of oral psoriasis.

Psoriatic inflammation facilitates the onset of arthritis in a mouse model

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a seronegative, inflammatory joint disease associated with psoriasis. In most patients with PsA, skin lesions precede arthritis; however, the causality of skin inflammation for the development of arthritis remains unclear. Gp130F759/F759 knock-in (F759) mice develop autoimmune arthritis after 1 year of age through persistent signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (Stat3) activation due to impairment in SOCS3-dependent negative regulation. Here, we crossed F759 mice with K5.Stat3C transgenic mice, in which keratinocytes express constitutive active Stat3 (Stat3C), leading to generation of psoriasis-like skin change. F759 mice harboring the K5.Stat3C transgene not only had aggravated skin lesions but also spontaneously developed arthritis with high penetrance in adjacent paws as early as 3 weeks of age. The joint lesions included swelling of the peripheral paws and nail deformities contiguous with the skin lesions, closely resembling PsA. Histopathologic study revealed enthesitis and bone erosions, with mononuclear cell infiltrates. Quantitative reverse transcriptase-PCR (RT-PCR), immunohistochemical analyses, and flow cytometry showed upregulation of the IL-23/T helper type 17 (Th17) pathway in affected joints. Furthermore, enforced generation of psoriasis-like skin inflammation by topical treatment with 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA) in F759 mice induced swelling of the underlying joints. This animal model renders psoriatic inflammation as the driver of arthritis and helps to further understand the pathogenesis of PsA.

Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) promoter polymorphisms (-794 CATT5-8 and -173 G>C): association with MIF and TNFα in psoriatic arthritis

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is an autoimmune disease with a complex interaction of gene and with a dysregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokine such as Macrophage migration Inhibitory Factor (MIF) and Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (TNFα). Two polymorphisms identified in the promoter region of the MIF gene have been described: the STR-794 CATT5-8 (rs5844572) and the SNP-173 G>C (rs755622), which are associated with increased MIF levels in circulation and with autoimmune diseases in several populations. In this case-control study we investigated whether commonly occurring functional MIF polymorphisms are associated with PsA susceptibility and clinical variables as well as with MIF and TNFα serum levels in a Mexican-Mestizo population. Genotyping of the -794 CATT5-8 and -173 G>C MIF polymorphisms was performed by PCR and PCR-RFLP respectively in 50 PsA patients and 100 healthy subjects (HS). MIF and TNFα serum levels were determined by ELISA. A significant increase of MIF (PsA: 7.8 vs. HS: 5.25 ng/mL; p < 0.001) and TNFα (PsA: 24.6 vs. HS: 9.9 pg/mL; p < 0.001) levels was found in PsA patients, a significant correlation was observed between MIF and TNFα (r = 0.41; p < 0.01). The 5,6 repeats genotype of the -794 CATT5-8 MIF was associated with protection to PsA (OR = 0.29; CI 0.77-0.98; p = 0.03), and the G/C genotype (OR = 7.5; CI 2.92-21.64; p < 0.001) and the -173*C allele (OR = 2.45; CI 1.43-4.20; p < 0.001) of the -173 G>C MIF were associated with susceptibility to PsA. In conclusion the -173*C allele is associated with susceptibility to PsA in Mexican-Mestizo population, whereas the correlation between MIF and TNFα soluble levels provided evidence that both cytokines are closely related in the pathophysiology of the PsA.

Psoriatic arthritis and nail changes: exploring the relationship

OBJECTIVE

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) has a diverse range of clinical manifestations, both articular and extra-articular. Although the association of PsA with skin changes is well established, the relationship of PsA with psoriatic nail changes remains relatively unexplored.

METHODS

This report reviews the current literature surrounding the association of PsA with nail changes. A review of the literature was completed using PubMed, MEDLINE, and EMBASE in September 2013, encompassing years 1964-2012.

RESULTS

A total of 21 articles were reviewed. On average, 66% [standard deviation (SD) 17.7] of PsA patients had nail changes. The type of nail changes and their associations varied widely between studies.

CONCLUSIONS

Studies of nail changes in PsA are highly variable with a wide range of results. Given the variability of results that were observed in this review, our recommendations are that further large studies on nail changes in patients with PsA should be conducted.

Long term efficacy and safety of etanercept in the treatment of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis

Psoriasis is a chronic, immune-mediated inflammatory disease affecting both the skin and joints. Approximately 20% of patients suffer a moderate to severe form of skin disease and up to 30% have joint involvement. Standard therapies for psoriasis include topical medications, phototherapy, and both oral systemic and biological therapies whereas therapies for psoriatic arthritis include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs followed by disease modifying antirheumatic drugs and/or tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α inhibitors and interleukin-12/23p40 inhibitors. Treatment of both diseases is typically driven by disease severity. In the past decade, major advances in the understanding of the immunopathogenesis of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis have led to the development of numerous biological therapies, which have revolutionized the treatment for moderate to severe plaque psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. Anti-TNF-α agents are currently considered as first line biological therapies for the treatment of moderate to severe psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. Currently approved anti-TNF-α agents include etanercept, adalimumab, and infliximab for psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis as well as golimumab and certolizumab for psoriatic arthritis. In this article, we aim to evaluate the long term safety and efficacy of etanercept in psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis.

Interleukin-17A: a unique pathway in immune-mediated diseases: psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis

Experimental evidence points to the importance of the cytokine interleukin-17A (IL-17A) in the pathogenesis of several immunoinflammatory diseases including psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Although a principal effector of T helper type 17 cells, IL-17A is produced by many other cell types including CD8(+) T cells and γδ T cells, and is found at high levels associated with mast cells and neutrophils at sites of skin and joint disease in humans. IL-17A up-regulates expression of numerous inflammation-related genes in target cells such as keratinocytes and fibroblasts, leading to increased production of chemokines, cytokines, antimicrobial peptides and other mediators that contribute to clinical disease features. Importantly, IL-17A must be considered within the context of the local microenvironment, because it acts synergistically or additively with other pro-inflammatory cytokines, including tumour necrosis factor. Several direct IL-17A inhibitors have shown promising activity in proof of concept and phase 2 clinical studies, thereby providing confirmation of experimental data supporting IL-17A in disease pathogenesis, although levels of response are not predicted by pre-clinical findings. IL-17A inhibitors produced rapid down-regulation of the psoriasis gene signature and high clinical response rates in patients with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis, consistent with an important role for IL-17A in psoriasis pathogenesis. Clinical response rates with IL-17A inhibitors in psoriatic arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, however, were improved to a lesser degree compared with placebo, suggesting that IL-17A is either important in a subset of patients or plays a relatively minor role in inflammatory joint disease. Ongoing phase 3 clinical trials should provide further information on the role of IL-17A in these diseases.

Can traumatic injury trigger psoriatic arthritis? A review of the literature

Traumatic injury as a trigger for the subsequent development of psoriatic arthritis (PsA) has been implicated by several case reports and case series. However, it is still unclear whether trauma is the inciting event or just an incidental finding. It is thought that the interplay of genetic, immunologic, and environmental factors, such as trauma, may trigger the development of PsA. At least two hypotheses of how trauma may be linked to the development of PsA have surfaced and involve a "deep Koebner effect," the concept of a synovio-entheseal complex and activation of the innate immune system by biomechanical factors. The role of neuropeptides such as substance P and vasoactive intestinal peptide has been highlighted in the synovium after trauma. Better understanding of this phenomenon would shed light into the pathophysiology of Psa and help the development of preventive and therapeutic strategies.

Burden of disease: psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) increases the disease burden associated with psoriasis by further diminishing quality of life, increasing health care costs and cardiovascular risk, and potentially causing progressive joint damage. The presence of PsA influences psoriasis treatment by increasing overall disease complexity and, within the framework of current guidelines and recommendations, requiring the use of conventional disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs or tumor necrosis factor-α inhibitors in order to prevent progressive joint damage. Despite its important impact, PsA is still under-diagnosed in dermatology practice. Dermatologists are well positioned to recognize and treat PsA, given that it characteristically presents, on average, 10 years subsequent to the appearance of skin symptoms. Regular screening of psoriasis patients for early evident joint symptoms should be incorporated into daily dermatologic practice. Although drugs effective in PsA are available, not all patients may respond to treatment, and others may lose their initial response over time. New investigational therapies, such as inhibitors of interleukin-17A, interleukin-12/23, Janus kinase 3, or phosphodiesterase-4, may address unmet needs in psoriatic disease, with further research needed to determine the role of these agents in reducing joint damage and other comorbidities.