Lipids and Atherogenic Indices Fluctuation in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients on Long-Term Tocilizumab Treatment

Dynamics of Modified Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis on the Background of 5-Year Therapy with an Interleukin 6 Receptor Inhibitor

The effect of an inhibitor of interleukin (IL) 6 receptors on the state of the cardiovascular system in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) remains poorly understood, especially with its long-term use.

THE AIM

of this work was to study the effect of therapy with the IL-6 receptor inhibitor tocilizumab (TCZ) on the dynamics of modifiable risk factors (RF), total cardiovascular risk (CVR), structural changes in the carotid arteries (CA), and the incidence of cardiovascular complications (CVC) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis during the 260-week follow-up period.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

: The study included 37 patients with active RA (32 women and 5 men) with ineffectiveness and/or intolerance to disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs); median age was 56 [48; 68] years, disease duration was 92 [49; 158] months; DAS28 (Disease Activity Score 28)-6.2 [5.5; 6.7] points; all patients were seropositive for rheumatoid factor (RF), 86%-for antibodies to cyclic citrullinated peptide (ACCP). Patients received TCZ therapy 8 mg/kg intravenously every 4 weeks; after 192 [176; 210] weeks, 60% of patients switched to subcutaneous administration of the drug at a dose of 162 mg once a week. In 51% of patients with RA, TCZ monotherapy was performed, in 49%-combination therapy of TCZ with DMARDs. Statins were received by 17 (46%) patients, including 7 patients before and 10 after inclusion in the study. All patients underwent an assessment of traditional risk factors, the total cardiovascular risk was calculated using the mSCORE scale, atherosclerotic vascular lesions were assessed by the detection of atherosclerotic plaques (ASP) of CA. The observation period was 260.4 [251.5; 283.4] weeks.

RESULTS

: After 260 weeks of TCZ therapy, RA remission was observed in 32 (86%) patients, low activity-in 5 (14%) patients. During the observation period, the frequency of modified RF and the total CVR did not change significantly, an increase in body mass index (BMI) by 11% was recorded, the number of patients with hypercholesterolemia and a reduced level of HDL cholesterol (C) decreased. In patients without statin therapy, there were no significant changes in the blood lipid spectrum. In the group of patients receiving statins, there was an increase in HDL-CH by 43%, a decrease in cholesterol levels by 15%, atherogenic index (AI) by 56% (p < 0.01 in all cases) and associations between the dynamics of ∆cholesterol and ∆CRP (r = 0.35; p = 0.04), ∆LDL-CH and ∆CRP (r = 0.41; p = 0.03). Significant structural changes in CA in RA patients by the end of  260 weeks of TCZ therapy were not identified. Initially, intima-media thickness (IMT) CA positively moderately correlated with age (r = 0.7; p < 0.01), BMI (r = 0.37; p < 0.01), systolic blood pressure (SBP) (r = 0.62; p < 0.01) and weakly with lipid spectrum parameters-cholesterol (r = 0.29; p < 0.01), LDL-CH (r = 0.36; p < 0.01). No new associations of IMT CA by the end of the observation, as well as the relationship of the IMT CA value with the indicators of RA activity and the ongoing therapy, were identified. By the end of the study, the distribution of patients by mSCORE value and CVR level did not change significantly. The incidence of CVC was 0.54 per 100 patient-years over a 260-week period of TCZ use.

CONCLUSIONS

: Against the background of long-term TCZ therapy in RA patients, there was no increase in CVR and significant structural changes in CA. It is necessary to dynamically monitor the blood lipid profile and CVR in RA patients receiving TCZ therapy. Statin therapy can successfully control dyslipidemia in RA patients who receive long-term TCZ.

IL-6 and diabetic kidney disease

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is a severe microvascular complication of diabetes associated with high mortality and disability rates. Inflammation has emerged as a key pathological mechanism in DKD, prompting interest in novel therapeutic approaches targeting inflammatory pathways. Interleukin-6 (IL-6), a well-established inflammatory cytokine known for mediating various inflammatory responses, has attracted great attention in the DKD field. Although multiple in vivo and in vitro studies highlight the potential of targeting IL-6 in DKD treatment, its exact roles in the disease remains unclear. This review presents the roles of IL-6 in the pathogenesis of DKD, including immunoinflammation, metabolism, hemodynamics, and ferroptosis. In addition, we summarize the current status of IL-6 inhibitors in DKD-related clinical trials and discuss the potential of targeting IL-6 for treating DKD in the clinic.

Interleukin-6: Cardiovascular Aspects of Long-Term Cytokine Suppression in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis

In recent years, many atherogenesis researchers have focused on the role of inflammatory cytokines in the development of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Interleukin-6 (IL-6) cytokine is independently associated with higher CVD risk in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The effect of IL-6 inhibitors on the cardiovascular system in RA patients remains poorly understood, especially with its long-term use. This study investigates the effect of therapy with IL-6 receptor blocker tocilizumab (TCZ) on the dynamics of cardiovascular risk (CVR), modifiable risk factors (RFs), carotid artery (CA) structural changes, and the incidence of cardiovascular complications (CVCs) in RA patients during a 265-week follow-up period. Forty-five patients with active RA (DAS28-ESR 6.2 (5.5;6.8) with ineffectiveness and/or intolerance to disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) were included in this study. During long-term therapy with TCZ in RA patients, no increase in CVR and no significant structural changes in CA were observed. No significant changes in the blood lipid spectrum were observed in patients without statin therapy. In the group of patients receiving statins, there was a 43% increase in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), a 15% reduction in total cholesterol levels, and a 56% decrease in the atherogenicity index (p < 0.01 in all cases). Associations were found between ∆ total cholesterol and ∆ C-reactive protein (CRP) (R = 0.36, p = 0.04), ∆ low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and ∆-CRP (R = 0.42, p = 0.03) in RA patients receiving statins. Initially, the thickness of the intima-media complex of carotid arteries (cIMT) positively moderately correlated with age (R = 0.7; p < 0.01), BMI (R = 0.37; p < 0.01), and systolic blood pressure (R = 0.64; p < 0.01); however, it weakly correlated with the lipid spectrum parameters: total cholesterol (R = 0.29; p < 0.01) and LDL-C (R = 0.33; p < 0.01). No new associations of cIMT by the end of the follow-up period, as well as the relationship of cIMT value with RA activity and therapy, were revealed. Patients with carotid ASPs showed an oppositely directed relationship between total cholesterol and sVCAM-1 at baseline (R = -0.25, p = 0.01) and at the end of this study (R = 0.29, p < 0.01). The incidence of cardiovascular events was 0.53 per 100 patient-years during the 265-week period of TCZ therapy.

Efficacy and Safety of Filgotinib in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients Aged over and under 65 Years (ENANTIA-65)

BACKGROUND

According to recent data, the age of patients could represent an important risk factor for MACE (major cardiovascular events), cancer, and VTE (venous thromboembolism) during treatment with JAK inhibitors in rheumatoid arthritis. We decided to analyze the population involved in the ReLiFiRa study by identifying two groups of patients: 65 years or more and less than 65 years of age, evaluating the efficacy and tolerability of 200 mg of Filgotinib daily.

METHODS

Of the 120 ReLiFiRa patients, 54 were younger than 65 years old and 66 patients were 65 years old or older. The data of efficacy and tolerability of treatment with FIL 200 mg daily for 6 months were evaluated.

RESULTS

After six months of treatment, FIL was effective in both age groups. In both groups, the median values of steroid DAS28, CDAI, ERS, PCR, tender joints, swollen joints, VAS, HAQ, PGA patients, and PGA physicians were reduced with a statistically significant difference comparing these values with the baseline values. The difference in age did not impact the effectiveness of the drug. The lipid profile data also did not demonstrate significant differences between the two age groups; however, the comparison between younger vs. older patients' populations regarding the total cholesterol/HDL ratio and LDL/HDL ratio shows a statistically significant difference: total cholesterol/HDL 3.4 (2.12-3.66) vs. 3.64 (3.36-4.13) p = 0.0004, LDL/HDL 1.9 (0.98-2.25) vs. 2.41 (2.04-2.73) p = 0.0002. There are no differences regarding the atherogenic index (LDL-C/HDL-C) and coronary risk index (TC/HDL-C) compared to baseline.

CONCLUSIONS

After six months of treatment with FIL, the older population group showed a higher level of LDL and a lower level of HDL compared to younger patients. The atherogenic index and coronary risk index are higher in patients aged ≥ 65 years, but interestingly, there were no differences when comparing the 6-month data to baseline values. This condition highlights the impact of typical risk factors that act independently of treatment with Filgotinib.

Changes in metabolic parameters and serum YKL-40 levels in Chinese rheumatoid arthritis patients during tocilizumab therapy

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the metabolic changes during therapy of tocilizumab (TCZ) and methotrexate (MTX) in non-diabetic rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients and for the first time explore the associations between metabolic parameters and serum YKL-40 (sYKL-40) levels.

METHODS

We enrolled active non-diabetic RA patients who were refractory to MTX. Patients received intravenous TCZ (8 mg/kg) once every 4 weeks combined with MTX for 24 weeks. Metabolic parameters and sYKL-40 levels were measured before TCZ infusion at baseline, week 4, week 12, and week 24. Correlations were assessed by the Spearman's rank correlation analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 91 non-diabetic RA patients were enrolled in this study. At week 24, we observed a significant elevation in body mass index (BMI), total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), and triglycerides (TG) levels. In contrast, there was a significant decrease in TC/HDL‑C ratio. No apparent changes in insulin resistance were found. Additionally, we detected a significant reduction in sYKL-40 levels during the study. At week 24, changes in sYKL-40 levels showed a significant negative correlation (r = -0.334, p = 0.002) with changes in TC levels.

CONCLUSION

The combined therapy of TCZ and MTX resulted in a significant increase in BMI and lipid levels, while an evident decrease in the TC/HDL‑C ratio and sYKL-40 levels in RA patients. Additionally, there was a significant correlation between the decrease in sYKL-40 levels and the increase in TC levels during treatment with TCZ and MTX. Key Points • Lipid levels elevated significantly and sYKL-40 levels decreased obviously after therapy of TCZ combined with MTX in Chinese RA patients. • There was a significant correlation between the increase in TC levels and the decrease in sYKL-40 levels during treatment with TCZ and MTX in RA patients.

Tocilizumab-related hypertriglyceridemia is independent of key molecules regulating lipid metabolism

INTRODUCTION

Tocilizumab (TCZ) treatment is associated with dyslipidaemia, including a rise in triglycerides through a mechanism poorly understood. Three molecules play key roles in the regulation of triglyceride metabolism: apolipoprotein C-III (ApoC-III), angiopoietin-like protein 4(ANGPLT4) and lipoprotein lipase (LPL). The aim of this work was to analyse whether the changes in triglycerides shown by TCZ-treated RA patients could stem from the dysregulation that can occur in these regulatory molecules.

METHODS

Twenty-seven RA patients included in the TOCRIVAR study who received TCZ (8 mg/kg IV/q4w) were evaluated at baseline and at Weeks 12, 24 and 52 of treatment. ANGPTL4, ApoC-III and LPL, a complete lipid profile and RA disease activity, were analysed at baseline and at each visit. Multivariable linear mixed models were performed to study changes over time in lipids and regulatory molecules.

RESULTS

After 24 weeks of TCZ treatment, HDL cholesterol, apolipoprotein A1 and triglycerides increased, whereas lipoprotein (a) decreased significantly from baseline values. However, 1 year after TCZ, no significant differences in lipid pattern were observed with respect to baseline. Serum ANGPTL4 and Apo-CIII levels decreased gradually over time, both being significantly lower than baseline values at Week 52. LPL concentration did not change significantly during TCZ treatment. Remarkably, the elevation of triglycerides at Week 24 maintained its statistical significance after adjusting for the changes in ApoC-III, ANGPTL4 and LPL.

CONCLUSION

In TCZ-treated RA patients basal serum levels of ANGPLT4 and ApoC-III, but not LPL, decreased significantly. However, the elevation of triglycerides after TCZ was not related to changes in these regulatory molecules.

ReLiFiRa (Real Life Filgotinib in Rheumatoid Arthritis): Retrospective Study of Efficacy and Safety in Common Clinical Practice

BACKGROUND

Filgotinib (FIL) is a selective JAK1 inhibitor with an affinity 30-fold higher than JAK2, approved to treat moderate to severe active rheumatoid arthritis (RA), in adults with inadequate response or intolerance to one or more disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs).

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective, multicentric study in order to evaluate efficacy and safety of FIL 200 mg daily therapy, after 3 and 6 months, in 120 patients affected by RA, managed in Tuscany and Umbria rheumatological centers. The following clinical records were analyzed: demographical data, smoking status, previous presence of comorbidities (Herpes zoster -HZ- infection, venous thromboembolism -VTE-, major adverse cardiovascular events -MACE-, cancer, diabetes, and hypertension), disease duration, presence of anti-citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPA), rheumatoid factor (RF), number of biological failures, and prior csDMARDs utilized. At baseline, and after 3 (T3) and 6 (T6) months of FIL therapy, we evaluated mean steroid dosage, csDMARDs intake, clinimetric indexes (DAS28, CDAI, HAQ, patient and doctor PGA, VAS), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C-reactive protein (CRP), and body mass index (BMI).

RESULTS

At baseline, the mean disease duration was 9.4 ± 7.5 years; the prevalence of previous HZ infection, VTE, MACE, and cancer was respectively 4.12%, 0%, 7.21%, and 0.83%, respectively. In total, 76.3% of patients failed one or more biologics (one biological failure, 20.6%; two biological failures, 27.8%; three biological failures, 16.5%; four biological failures, 10.3%; five biological failures, 1.1%). After 3 months of FIL therapy, all clinimetric index results significantly improved from baseline, as well as after 6 months. Also, ESR and CRP significatively decreased at T3 and T6. Two cases of HZ were recorded, while no new MACE, VTE, or cancer were recorded during the observation time.

CONCLUSION

Despite the limitations of the retrospective study and of the observational period of only 6 months, real-life data on the treatment of RA patients with FIL demonstrate that this Jak inhibitor therapy is safe in terms of CV, VTE events, and occurrence of cancer, and is also effective in a population identified as "difficult to treat" due to failure of previous b-DMARD therapy.

Determination of Heterogeneous Proteomic and Metabolomic Response in anti-TNF and anti-IL-6 Treatment of Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis

Reduction in tumor necrosis factor (αTNF) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) activities is a widely utilized strategy for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) with a high success rate. Despite both schemes targeting the deprivation of inflammatory reactions caused by the excessive activity of cytokines, their mechanisms of action and the final output are still unequal. This was a comparative longitudinal study that lasted for 24 weeks and aimed to find the answer to why the two schemes of therapy can pass out of proportion in attitude of their efficiency. What are the differences in metabolic and proteomic responses among patients who were being treated by either the anti-TNF or anti-IL-6 strategy? We found increased levels of immunoglobulins A and G (more than 2-fold in anti-IL-6 and more than 4-5-fold in anti-TNF groups) at the final stage (24 weeks) of monitoring but the most profound increase was determined for µ-chains of immunoglobulins in both groups of study. Metabolomic changes displayed main alterations with regard to arginine metabolism and collagen maintenance, where arginine increased 8.86-fold (p < 0.001) in anti-TNF and 5.71-fold (p < 0.05) in anti-IL-6 groups but patients treated by the anti-TNF scheme suffered a higher depletion of arginine before the start of therapy. Some indicators of matrix and bone tissue degradation also increased 4-hydroxyproline (4-HP) more than 6-fold (p < 0.001) in anti-TNF and more than 2-fold (p < 0.05) in the anti-IL-6 group, but the growth dynamics in the anti-IL6 group was delayed (gradually raised at week 24) compared to the anti-TNF group (raised at week 12) following a smooth reduction. The ELISA analysis of IL-6 and TNFα concentration in the study population supported proteomic and metabolomic data. A positive correlation between ΔCDAI and ΔDAS28 indicators and ESR and CRP was established for the majority of patients after 24 weeks of treatment where ESR and CRP reduced by 20% and 40% finally, respectively. A regression model using the Forest Plot was estimated to elucidate the impact of the most significant clinical, biochemical, and anthropometric indicators for the evaluation of differences between considered anti-TNF and anti-IL-6 schemes of therapy.

Evidence for Biologic Drug Modifying Anti-Rheumatoid Drugs and Association with Cardiovascular Disease Risk Mitigation in Inflammatory Arthritis

Systemic auto-immune inflammatory arthritides are associated with increased cardiovascular (CV) risk compared to those without these conditions, and is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality. Newer biologic drug modifying antirheumatoid drugs (bDMARD) and small molecules have transformed treatment paradigms enabling tighter control of disease activity and in some cases, remission. There is evidence to suggest that the majority of bDMARDs may also reduce cardiovascular risk, although prospective interventional data remain sparse. Additionally, recent results raise concern for treatments targeting specific pathways that may negatively affect cardiovascular risk. This review will cover key biologic pathways targeted in rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and spondyloarthropathies.

Cardiovascular Risk Assessment in Rheumatoid Arthritis: Accelerated Atherosclerosis, New Biomarkers, and the Effects of Biological Therapy

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), one of the most common of the chronic inflammatory autoimmune diseases (CIADs), is recognized as an independent cardiovascular risk factor. Traditional risk factors such as smoking, arterial hypertension, dyslipidemia, insulin resistance, and obesity are frequently found in RA. Given the increased risk of mortality and morbidity associated with cardiovascular disease (CVD) in RA patients, screening for risk factors is important. Moreover, there is a need to identify potential predictors of subclinical atherosclerosis. Recent studies have shown that markers such as serum homocysteine, asymmetric dimethylarginine, or carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT) are correlated with cardiovascular risk. Although RA presents a cardiovascular risk comparable to that of diabetes, it is not managed as well in terms of acute cardiovascular events. The introduction of biological therapy has opened new perspectives in the understanding of this pathology, confirming the involvement and importance of the inflammatory markers, cytokines, and the immune system. In addition to effects in inducing remission and slowing disease progression, most biologics have demonstrated efficacy in reducing the risk of major cardiovascular events. Some studies have also been conducted in patients without RA, with similar results. However, early detection of atherosclerosis and the use of targeted therapies are the cornerstone for reducing cardiovascular risk in RA patients.

Exploring potential shared genetic influences between rheumatoid arthritis and blood lipid levels

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The association between rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and blood lipid levels has often been described as paradoxical, despite the strong association between RA and cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. We aimed to clarify the genetic architecture that would explain the relationship between RA and blood-lipid levels, while considering inflammation as measured by C-reactive protein (CRP).

METHODS

Genome-wide association study (GWAS) summary statistics were collected from the CHARGE Consortium and Global Lipids Genetics Consortium. Blood-lipid levels includes HDL-C, LDL-C, triglycerides (TG), and total cholesterol (TC). Causality was examined by assessing Mendelian Randomization (MR) analysis. Pleiotropy, the identification of shared causal variants between traits, was assessed by conducting colocalization analyses.

RESULTS

Using the MR Egger method, RA did not appear to causally predict alterations in lipid factors, rather the MR Egger intercept revealed that the genetic relationship between RA and HDL-C, LDL-C and TC may be explained by horizontal pleiotropy (p=0.003, 0.006, and 0.018, respectively). MR was suggestive of a horizontally pleiotropic relationship between CRP and lipid factors, while a causal relationship could not be ruled out. Recurring genes arising from shared causal genetic variants between RA and varying lipid factors included NAT2/PSD3, FADS2/FADS1, SH2B3, and YDJC.

CONCLUSIONS

Horizontal pleiotropy appears to explain the genetic relationship between RA and blood-lipid levels. In addition, blood-lipid levels appear to suggest a horizontally pleiotropic relationship to CRP, if not mediated through RA as well. Consideration of the pleiotropic genes between RA and blood lipid levels may aid in enhancing diagnostic means to predict CVD.

The impact of SARS-CoV-2 treatment on the cardiovascular system: an updated review

The coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has become a major global health problem. COVID-19 is caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) and exhibits pulmonary and extrapulmonary effects, including cardiovascular involvement. There are several attempts to identify drugs that could treat COVID-19. Moreover, many patients infected with COVID-19 have underlying diseases, particularly cardiovascular diseases. These patients are more likely to develop severe illnesses and would require optimized treatment strategies. The current study gathered information from various databases, including relevant studies, reviews, trials, or meta-analyses until April 2022 to identify the impact of SARS-CoV-2 treatment on the cardiovascular system. Studies have shown that the prognosis of patients with underlying cardiovascular disease is worsened by COVID-19, with some COVID-19 medications interfering with the cardiovascular system. The COVID-19 treatment strategy should consider many factors and parameters to avoid medication-induced cardiac injury, mainly in elderly patients. Therefore, this article provides a synthesis of evidence on the impact of different COVID-19 medications on the cardiovascular system and related disease conditions.

Association of atherogenic indices with C-reactive protein and risk factors to assess cardiovascular risk in rheumatoid arthritis patient at Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital, Addis Ababa

Background

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune systemic chronic inflammatory disorder, which is characterized by joint stiffness, damage, and destruction of bone. In RA patients, the risk of cardiovascular disease is increased by 2–3 folds as compared to the general population. The major burden of RA is the development of cardiovascular diseases, including congestive heart failure, stroke, and myocardial infarction.

Objectives

Assessment of the association of atherogenic indices with C-reactive protein to evaluate CVD risk was one of the purposes of this study. In addition, the association of atherogenic indices with elevated levels of cardiovascular risk factors (LDL-C and TG) was another aim of this study.

Methods

The preferred study design for this study was a hospital based comparative cross-sectional study method. Data were cleaned, coded, and entered into Epi Data version 4.6 software, and exported to SPSS version 20 for further analysis of atherogenic indices, C-reactive protein, and risk factors. The comparison of atherogenic indices and other variables among the case and control groups was estimated by the independent t-test statistical analysis method. All variables with a p-value less than 0.2 during binary linear regression analysis were selected for multinomial logistic regression analysis. The association of atherogenic indices with C-reactive protein and risk factors was computed using multiple logistic regressions. The data were presented using tables and figures for clarification of the study.

Results

The levels of atherogenic indices were computed for both RA patients and the control group. The values of atherogenic indices were significantly associated with cardiovascular risk factor (CRP ≥ 2mg/L). Atherogenic index of plasma (AIP) and TC/HDL-C ratio had a statistically significant association with an elevated levels of triglycerides (P<0.01). The TC/HDL-Cratio value of the patient had 2.38 folds more likely to have an elevated low density lipoprotein level. In addition, AIP of RA patients had 57.51 and 23.65 folds more to have elevated low density lipoprotein and triglycerides respectively.

Conclusions

The result of this study showed that TC/HDL-C, LDL/HDL-C ratio values, and atherogenic index of plasma had a statistically significant association with elevated level of low density lipoprotein and triglycerides. In addition to this, they have a statistically significant association with the level of C-reactive protein. There was a highly significant statistical association between atherogenic indices, elevated low density lipoprotein, and triglycerides values. Therefore, the result of this finding confirmed that atherogenic indices have a potential role in the prediction and management of CVD risk in RA patients.

Internal carotid artery occlusion related to poorly controlled rheumatoid arthritis presenting with continuous hand shaking: A case report and literature review

RATIONALE

Limb-shaking syndrome is a special manifestation of transient ischemic attack, resulting from internal carotid artery (ICA) occlusion. Extra-articular manifestations of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are likely to occur in patients with severe or active RA. RA may accelerate atherosclerotic processes through inflammation. Here, we present a case of ICA occlusion related to poorly controlled RA that presented with continuous hand shaking.

PATIENT CONCERNS

A 73-year-old man with a history of poorly controlled RA developed total occlusion of the right ICA in recent 4 months. He presented with 2 days of continuous and rhythmic left-hand shaking before admission.

DIAGNOSIS

The patient was suspected to have transient ischemic attack resulting from ICA occlusion.

INTERVENTIONS

Antiplatelets and antiepileptic drugs were used for continuous nonepileptic focal myoclonus. A disease-modifying antirheumatic drug-based regimen for RA was developed to prevent further atherosclerosis.

OUTCOMES

Following the initial intervention, continuous hand shaking subsided on hospital day 7. Prednisolone was titrated as an active RA control. At the 6-month follow-up visit, neither painful wrist swelling nor recurrent shaking of the hand was noted.

LESSONS

Continuous hand shaking (nonepileptic focal myoclonus) can be the initial presentation of ICA occlusion in patients with poorly controlled RA. Every patient with RA should be treated aggressively with anti-rheumatic agents since RA is an independent risk factor for stroke. Additionally, every patient with RA should be surveyed for ICA stenosis, especially in those with poor control.

Genetic Predisposition and Inflammatory Inhibitors in COVID-19: Where Do We Stand?

Severe acute respiratory syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) and the resulting coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) have led to a global pandemic associated with high fatality rates. COVID-19 primarily manifests in the respiratory system as an acute respiratory distress syndrome following viral entry through the angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 (ACE2) that is present in pulmonary epithelial cells. Central in COVID-19 is the burst of cytokines, known as a "cytokine storm", and the subsequent widespread endothelial activation, leading to cardiovascular complications such as myocarditis, arrhythmias, and adverse vascular events, among others. Genetic alterations may play an additive, detrimental role in the clinical course of patients with COVID-19, since gene alterations concerning ACE2, major histocompatibility complex class I, and toll-like receptors may predispose patients to a worse clinical outcome. Since the role of inflammation is quintessential in COVID-19, pharmacologic inhibition of various signaling pathways such as the interleukin-1 and -6, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interferon gamma, Janus kinase-signal transducer and activator of transcription, and granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor may ameliorate the prognosis following timely administration. Finally, frequently used, non-specific anti-inflammatory agents such as corticosteroids, statins, colchicine, and macrolides represent additional therapeutic considerations.

Treatment of Cardiovascular Disease in Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Complex Challenge with Increased Atherosclerotic Risk

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) carries significant risk for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). Traditional ASCVD risk factors fail to account for this accelerated atherosclerosis. Shared inflammatory pathways are fundamental in the pathogenesis of both diseases. Considering the impact of RA in increasing cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, the characterization of therapies encompassing both RA and ASCVD management merit high priority. Despite little progress, several drugs discussed here promote remission and or lower rheumatoid disease activity while simultaneously conferring some level of atheroprotection. Methotrexate, a widely used disease-modifying drug used in RA, is associated with significant reduction in cardiovascular adverse events. MTX promotes cholesterol efflux from macrophages, upregulates free radical scavenging and improves endothelial function. Likewise, the sulfonamide drug sulfasalazine positively impacts the lipid profile by increasing HDL-C, and its use in RA has been correlated with reduced risk of myocardial infraction. In the biologic class, inhibitors of TNF-α and IL-6 contribute to improvements in endothelial function and promote anti-atherogenic properties of HDL-C, respectively. The immunosuppressant hydroxychloroquine positively affects insulin sensitization and the lipid profile. While no individual therapy has elicited optimal atheroprotection, further investigation of combination therapies are ongoing.

Inflammation in Coronary Microvascular Dysfunction

Chronic low-grade inflammation is involved in coronary atherosclerosis, presenting multiple clinical manifestations ranging from asymptomatic to stable angina, acute coronary syndrome, heart failure and sudden cardiac death. Coronary microvasculature consists of vessels with a diameter less than 500 μm, whose potential structural and functional abnormalities can lead to inappropriate dilatation and an inability to meet the required myocardium oxygen demands. This review focuses on the pathogenesis of coronary microvascular dysfunction and the capability of non-invasive screening methods to detect the phenomenon. Anti-inflammatory agents, such as statins and immunomodulators, including anakinra, tocilizumab, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha inhibitors, have been assessed recently and may constitute additional or alternative treatment approaches to reduce cardiovascular events in atherosclerotic heart disease characterized by coronary microvascular dysfunction.

Tocilizumab Effect on Lipid Profile in Correlation to Cardiovascular Events: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Objective

To study the effect of tocilizumab initiation on the lipid profile, in correlation to a composite of any cardiovascular events.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study, using data from the King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre database, from January 2014 to December 2019. Patients with rheumatoid arthritis or juvenile idiopathic arthritis who were ≥18 years old, initiated either on tocilizumab or other biologic treatment (anti-TNFs or Rituximab), were included, with a follow-up interval duration at a minimum of 6–12 months up to 3-5 years. Any patient with established cardiovascular disease or aged <18 were excluded.

Results

Only one cardiovascular mortality was reported in the tocilizumab group. Fifty percent of patients reached high cholesterol levels ≥ 5.2 mmol/L and LDL ≥ 3.37 mmol/L in the tocilizumab group at 36 months in a shorter time period compared to controls (60 months), P 0.001. There were no significant differences between groups for statin use (27% vs. 28%) However, there was a significantly higher mean dose of atorvastatin in the tocilizumab group compared to controls (20.6 mg vs. 16.6 mg, P 0.03).

Conclusion

There was a lack of evidence of increased cardiovascular risk in correlation to hyperlipidemia secondary to tocilizumab treatment.

Anti-Inflammatory Therapy for Atherosclerosis: Focusing on Cytokines

Atherosclerosis is a well-known global health problem. Despite the high prevalence of the disease, numerous aspects of pathogenesis remain unclear. Subsequently, there are still no cure or adequate preventive measures available. Atherogenesis is now considered a complex interplay between lipid metabolism alterations, oxidative stress, and inflammation. Inflammation in atherogenesis involves cellular elements of both innate (such as macrophages and monocytes) and adaptive immunity (such as B-cells and T-cells), as well as various cytokines cascades. Because inflammation is, in general, a well-investigated therapeutic target, and strategies for controlling inflammation have been successfully used to combat a number of other diseases, inflammation seems to be the preferred target for the treatment of atherosclerosis as well. In this review, we summarized data on targeting the most studied inflammatory molecular targets, CRP, IL-1β, IL-6, IFN-γ, and TNF-α. Studies in animal models have shown the efficacy of anti-inflammatory therapy, while clinical studies revealed the incompetence of existing data, which blocks the development of an effective atheroprotective drug. However, all data on cytokine targeting give evidence that anti-inflammatory therapy can be a part of a complex treatment.

Inflammatory Mechanisms in COVID-19 and Atherosclerosis: Current Pharmaceutical Perspectives

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has been associated with excess mortality worldwide. The cardiovascular system is the second most common target of SARS-CoV-2, which leads to severe complications, including acute myocardial injury, myocarditis, arrhythmias, and venous thromboembolism, as well as other major thrombotic events because of direct endothelial injury and an excessive systemic inflammatory response. This review focuses on the similarities and the differences of inflammatory pathways involved in COVID-19 and atherosclerosis. Anti-inflammatory agents and immunomodulators have recently been assessed, which may constitute rational treatments for the reduction of cardiovascular events in both COVID-19 and atherosclerotic heart disease.

Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease in Rheumatoid Arthritis: Impact of Inflammation and Antirheumatic Treatment

Patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are at approximately 1.5-fold risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (CVD) compared with the general population, a phenomenon resulting from combined effects of traditional CVD risk factors and systemic inflammation. Rheumatoid synovitis and unstable atherosclerotic plaques share common inflammatory mechanisms, such as expression of proinflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)-1, tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α and IL-6. RA patients are undertreated in terms of CVD prevention, and structured CVD prevention programmes are warranted. Alongside management of traditional risk factors, suppressing systemic inflammation with antirheumatic medication is fundamental for the reduction of CVD risk among this high-risk patient group. Many antirheumatic drugs, especially methotrexate, TNF-α-inhibitors and IL-6-inhibitors are associated with reduced risk of CVD in observational studies among RA patients, but randomised controlled trials with hard CVD endpoints are lacking. In patients without rheumatic disease, anti-inflammatory therapies targeting nucleotide-binding oligomerisation domain, leucine-rich repeat and pyrin domain-containing protein 3 inflammasome and the IL-1/IL-6 pathway arise as potential therapies after an atherosclerotic CVD event.

Cardiovascular effects of approved drugs for rheumatoid arthritis

The risk of cardiovascular disease is increased in patients with rheumatoid arthritis compared with the general population owing to the influence of traditional and non-traditional risk factors. Inflammation has a pivotal contribution and can accelerate the atherosclerotic process. Although dampening inflammation with DMARDs should theoretically abrogate this process, evidence suggests that these drugs can also promote atherosclerosis directly and indirectly, hence adding to an increased cardiovascular burden. However, the extent and direction of the effects largely differ across drugs. Understanding how these drugs influence endothelial damage and vascular repair mechanisms is key to understanding these outcomes. NSAIDs and glucocorticoids can increase the cardiovascular risk. Conversely, conventional, biologic and targeted DMARDs control inflammation and reduce this risk, although some of these drugs can also aggravate traditional factors or thrombotic events. Given these data, the fundamental objective for clinicians should be disease control, in an individualized approach that considers the most appropriate drug for each patient, taking into account joint and cardiovascular outcomes. This Review provides a comprehensive analysis of the effects of DMARDs and other approved drugs on cardiovascular involvement in rheumatoid arthritis, from a clinical and mechanistic perspective, with a roadmap to inform the research agenda.

Biologics and atherosclerotic cardiovascular risk in rheumatoid arthritis: a review of evidence and mechanistic insights

Introduction: Cardiovascular disease is a leading comorbidity in rheumatoid arthritis. Timely introduction of biologic therapies in a treat-to-target approach has optimized disease-related outcomes and attenuated accrual of comorbidities, including cardiovascular risk.Areas covered: A literature search in MEDLINE (via PubMed) was performed between January 2009 and November 2020. This manuscript explores recent developments in atherosclerotic cardiovascular risk in RA compared with non-RA individuals; it synopsizes differences in vascular function and inflammation, prevalence, burden, vulnerability, and progression of atherosclerotic plaque and their underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms. Finally, it reviews the recent literature on cardioprotective benefits of biologics and draws mechanistic links with inhibition of new plaque formation, stabilization of high-risk lesions and improvement in endothelial function, arterial stiffness, lipid metabolism, and traditional cardiac risk factors.Expert opinion: Increasing evidence points to a solid cardioprotective influence of earlier, longer, and ongoing use of biologic treatments in RA. Nevertheless, the precise mechanistic effects of plaque progression and remodeling, vascular stiffness, endothelial dysfunction, lipid metabolism, and traditional cardiac risk factors are less rigorously characterized.

Effect of Tocilizumab on LDL and HDL Characteristics in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis. An Observational Study

BACKGROUND

In patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), qualitative alterations of low and high-density lipoproteins (LDL and HDL, respectively) might partially explain their increased cardiovascular risk. Tocilizumab has been associated with an increase in lipids, including triglyceride (TG) and cholesterol levels. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of tocilizumab on certain LDL and HDL characteristics (oxidized LDL levels, HDL-associated enzymes, chemical composition of both total HDL and HDL3c subpopulation, and their capacity to promote cellular cholesterol efflux) at baseline and 3 months after the start of treatment in patients with RA.

METHODS

Twenty-eight RA patients (ACR/EULAR 2010 criteria) with indication of treatment with tocilizumab were included in the present study. Clinical assessment [Health assessment questionnaire (HAQ)], disease activity score 28 (DAS28), high-sensitivity C reactive protein (hsCRP) concentration, lipid profile, and lipoprotein (a) [Lp(a)] levels were evaluated in all patients at baseline and after 3 months of treatment with tocilizumab. Lipoprotein characteristics were evaluated through the levels of oxidized LDL (OxLDL), the activity of paraoxonase (PON) 1, the composition of total HDL and small, dense HDL3c subpopulation, and their ability to promote cellular cholesterol efflux.

RESULTS

After 3 months of treatment with tocilizumab, HAQ (- 23%, p < 0.05), DAS28 (- 49%, p < 0.001), and hsCRP (- 94%, p < 0.01) levels decreased significantly. Total cholesterol (TC), LDL-C, non-HDL-C, and apo B levels showed a significant increase after treatment (TC: + 7.0%, p < 0.01; LDL-C: + 10%, p < 0.01; non-HDL-C: + 9.9%, p < 0.01; and apo B: + 9.6%, p < 0.05). Decreases in Lp(a) and OxLDL levels were also observed after treatment [Lp(a): - 50%, p < 0.01; and oxLDL: - 5.4%, p < 0.05]. The latter was in accordance with the increment detected in PON activity. No changes were observed in HDL capacity to promote cholesterol efflux (p > 0.05) in the whole group.

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment with tocilizumab reduced hsCRP levels and displayed positive effects on certain lipoprotein-related parameters, such as a potent decrease inLp(a) and a reduction in OxLDL levels. Moreover, HDL capacity to promote cellular cholesterol efflux was maintained after 3 months of treatment.

The Lipid Paradox as a Metabolic Checkpoint and Its Therapeutic Significance in Ameliorating the Associated Cardiovascular Risks in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients

While the most common manifestations associated with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are synovial damage and inflammation, the systemic effects of this autoimmune disorder are life-threatening, and are prevalent in 0.5–1% of the population, mainly associated with cardiovascular disorders (CVDs). Such effects have been instigated by an altered lipid profile in RA patients, which has been reported to correlate with CV risks. Altered lipid paradox is related to inflammatory burden in RA patients. The review highlights general lipid pathways (exogenous and endogenous), along with the changes in different forms of lipids and lipoproteins in RA conditions, which further contribute to elevated risks of CVDs like ischemic heart disease, atherosclerosis, myocardial infarction etc. The authors provide a deep insight on altered levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and triglycerides (TGs) in RA patients and their consequence on the cardiovascular health of the patient. This is followed by a detailed description of the impact of anti-rheumatoid therapy on the lipid profile in RA patients, comprising DMARDs, corticosteroids, anti-TNF agents, anti-IL-6 agents, JAK inhibitors and statins. Furthermore, this review elaborates on the prospects to be considered to optimize future investigation on management of RA and treatment therapies targeting altered lipid paradigms in patients.

Metabolic syndrome in rheumatoid arthritis patients: Relationship among its clinical components

BACKGROUND

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) prevalence in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients is known to vary considerably across the world. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of MetS in RA patients from western Mexico and to analyze the interrelation of the MetS components with the clinical variables of RA.

METHODS

This case-control study included 216 RA patients and 260 control subjects (CS). MetS prevalence was determined according to the NCEP/ATP III and the Latin American Consensus of the Latin American Diabetes Association (ALAD) criteria.

RESULTS

MetS was observed in 30.6% RA patients and 33.3% of controls (p > 0.05) according to NCEP/ATP III and 28.7% in RA patients and 31.1% for controls using ALAD criteria. Total cholesterol, LDL-C, and Castelli's I-II indexes were lower in RA (p < 0.001) than in CS. The RA patients with MetS had more swollen joints than those without MetS (p = 0.018). In RA patients with MetS, DAS-28 score correlated with smoking index (rho = 0.4601, p = 0.0004) and VLDL-C (rho = 0.3108, p = 0.0056); similarly, rheumatoid factor (RF) correlated with age (rho = 0.2031, p = 0.0027), smoking index (rho = 0.3404, p < 0.0001), triglycerides (rho = 0.1958, p = 0.0039), and VLDL-C (rho = 0.1761, p = 0.0162).

CONCLUSIONS

The MetS prevalence in RA patients from western Mexico is not higher than controls; however, in RA patients with MetS, some inflammatory markers are associated with MetS components; thus, the control of MetS in RA could be beneficial to regulate disease activity.

Acute Hypertriglyceridaemia Caused by Tocilizumab in a Patient with Severe COVID-19

Treatment with tocilizumab (TCZ) to block interleukin-6 (IL-6) signalling is predicted to mitigate cytokine release syndrome (CRS) caused by coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). However, the adverse effects of TCZ on patients with COVID-19 remain unclear. We herein report a patient with COVID-19 treated with TCZ who developed acute hypertriglyceridaemia. Despite favipiravir treatment, acute respiratory distress syndrome developed in a 45-year-old patient with COVID-19; thus, TCZ was initiated. The triglyceride levels greatly increased after TCZ administration. Physicians should consider the negative impact of TCZ on the lipid profile in patients with COVID-19, although COVID-19-induced CRS itself may be an aggravating factor.

Safety of systemic treatments for Behçet's syndrome

INTRODUCTION

Treatment of Behçet's syndrome (BS) is aimed at controlling all symptoms of such a complex disorder, ensuring a good quality of life and preventing life-threatening complications. A better understanding of the pathogenic role of different chemokines has improved our knowledge of BS and elicited a more specific use of therapies currently available, minimizing the burden of potential side-effects related to treatment.

AREAS COVERED

This work aims to provide a detailed overview of the safety profile for current therapies available in the treatment of BS, focusing on the main side-effects, toxicity and contraindications.

EXPERT OPINION

The greatest experience in the management of BS has been achieved with the employment of monoclonal anti-tumor necrosis factor antibodies which have been advocated for BS refractory manifestations. Moreover, interleukin-1 inhibitors have proven to be effective as well as safe, despite escalation of their dosage, especially to manage the most severe and difficult-to-treat ocular manifestations. However, general treatment of BS patients remains awkward as protean clinical features may respond differently to the same treatment or even worsen. Therefore, patients' safety for therapies used in BS promotes the implementation of precision medicine, which could help targeting accurately the pathogenetic mechanisms concealed behind specific clinical phenotypes.

Increased high molecular weight adiponectin and lean mass during tocilizumab treatment in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: a 12-month multicentre study

Background

Patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) have an increased risk of cardiovascular (CV) disease. Adiponectin is involved in the metabolism of glucose and lipids with favourable effects on CV disease, especially its high molecular weight (HMW) isoform. Body composition changes are described in RA with various phenotypes including obesity. The effects of tocilizumab on serum adiponectin and body composition, especially fat mass, in patients with RA are not well determined.

Methods

Patients with active RA despite previous csDMARDs and/or bDMARDs and who were tocilizumab naïve were enrolled in a multicentre open-label study. They were evaluated at baseline, 1, 3, 6 and 12 months. Clinical assessment included body mass index (BMI) and anthropometric measurements. Lipid and metabolic parameters, serum adiponectin (total and HMW), leptin, resistin and ghrelin were measured at each time point. Body composition (lean mass, fat mass, % fat, fat in the android and gynoid regions) was evaluated at baseline, 6 and 12 months.

Results

One hundred seven patients were included. Both total and HMW adiponectin significantly increased from baseline to month 3, peaking respectively at month 3 (p = 0.0105) and month 1 (p < 0.0001), then declining progressively until month 6 to 12 and returning to baseline values. Significant elevation in HMW adiponectin persisted at month 6 (p = 0.001). BMI and waist circumference significantly increased at month 6 and 12, as well as lean mass at month 6 (p = 0.0097). Fat mass, percentage fat and android fat did not change over the study period. Lipid parameters (total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol) increased while glycaemia, insulin and HOMA-IR remained stable. Serum leptin, resistin and ghrelin did not change during follow-up.

Conclusions

Tocilizumab treatment in RA patients was associated with a significant increase in total and HMW adiponectin, especially at the onset of the treatment. Tocilizumab also induced a significant gain in lean mass, while fat mass did not change. These variations in adiponectin levels during tocilizumab treatment could have positive effects on the CV risk of RA patients. In addition, tocilizumab may have an anabolic impact on lean mass/skeletal muscle.

Trial registration

The ADIPRAT study was a phase IV open-label multicentre study retrospectively registered on ClinicalTrials.gov under the number NCT02843789 (date of registration: July 26, 2016).

A Double-Edged Sword-Cardiovascular Concerns of Potential Anti-COVID-19 Drugs

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a pandemic infection caused by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). COVID-19 significantly affects multiple systems including the cardiovascular system. Most importantly, in addition to the direct injury from the virus per se, the subsequent cytokine storm, an overproduction of immune cells and their activating compounds, causes devastating damage. To date, emerging anti-SARS-CoV-2 treatments are warranted to control epidemics. Several candidate drugs have been screened and are currently under investigation. These primarily include antiviral regimens and immunomodulatory regimens. However, beyond the anti-SARS-CoV-2 effects, these drugs may also have risks to the cardiovascular system, especially altering cardiac conduction. Herein, we review the cardiovascular risks of potential anti-COVID-19 drugs.