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Chianca V, Lanckoroński M, Curti M, Chalian M, Sudoł-Szopińska I, Giraudo C, Del Grande F. Whole-Body Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Rheumatology. Radiol Clin North Am 2024; 62:865-876. [PMID: 39059977 DOI: 10.1016/j.rcl.2024.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/28/2024]
Abstract
This review focuses on the most frequent whole-body MRI applications in patients with rheumatological pathologies, for which this tool can be helpful to both radiologists and clinicians. It reports technical aspects of the acquisition of both 1.5 and 3.0 T scanners. The article lists the main findings that help radiologists during the evaluation of a specific pathology, both in the diagnostic phase and during follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vito Chianca
- Istituto di Imaging Della Svizzera Italiana (IIMSI), Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale (EOC), Via Tesserete 46, Lugano 6900 Switzerland.
| | - Michał Lanckoroński
- Department of Radiology, National Institute of Geriatrics, Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, Spartanska 1 Street, Warsaw 02-637, Poland
| | - Marco Curti
- Istituto di Imaging Della Svizzera Italiana (IIMSI), Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale (EOC), Via Tesserete 46, Lugano 6900 Switzerland
| | - Majid Chalian
- Division of Musculoskeletal Imaging and Intervention, Department of Radiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Iwona Sudoł-Szopińska
- Department of Radiology, National Institute of Geriatrics, Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, Spartanska 1 Street, Warsaw 02-637, Poland
| | - Chiara Giraudo
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health - DCTV, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Filippo Del Grande
- Istituto di Imaging Della Svizzera Italiana (IIMSI), Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale (EOC), Via Tesserete 46, Lugano 6900 Switzerland; Facoltà di Scienze Biomediche, Università Della Svizzera Italiana, Via Buffi 13, Lugano 6900, Switzerland
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2
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Sharma PK, S S, Christina EP, Gunasekaran D. Magnetic Resonance Imaging in the Assessment and Management of Post-injection-Site Morphea. Cureus 2024; 16:e65423. [PMID: 39184775 PMCID: PMC11344991 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.65423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/26/2024] [Indexed: 08/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Morphea, a form of localized scleroderma, can significantly affect individuals by causing skin tightening and discoloration. We describe the case of a 22-year-old woman who presented with progressive skin changes and discomfort in her right gluteal region following a history of an intramuscular injection in the right gluteal region. Clinical examination suggested morphea, prompting us to conduct an MRI to better understand the extent and nature of her condition. The MRI results revealed thickening of the skin layers and signs of inflammation, helping us differentiate between active inflammation and fibrosis. This case illustrates how MRI can provide crucial insights for managing morphea effectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Praveen K Sharma
- Radiology, Saveetha Medical College and Hospital, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, IND
| | - Sharmeela S
- Radiology, Saveetha Medical College and Hospital, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, IND
| | - Evangeline P Christina
- Radiology, Saveetha Medical College and Hospital, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, IND
| | - Dhivya Gunasekaran
- Radiology, Saveetha Medical College and Hospital, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, IND
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Kreuter A, Moinzadeh P, Kinberger M, Horneff G, Worm M, Werner RN, Hammacher A, Krieg T, Wenzel J, Oeschger M, Weibel L, Müllegger R, Hunzelmann N. S2k guideline: Diagnosis and therapy of localized scleroderma. J Dtsch Dermatol Ges 2024; 22:605-620. [PMID: 38426689 DOI: 10.1111/ddg.15328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
The updated S2k guideline deals with the diagnosis and therapy of localized scleroderma (LoS). LoS represents a spectrum of sclerotic skin diseases in which, depending on the subtype and localisation, structures such as adipose tissue, muscles, joints, and bones may also be affected. Involvement of internal organs or progression to systemic sclerosis does not occur. LoS can be classified into four main forms: limited, generalized, linear, and mixed forms, with some additional subtypes. For cases of limited skin involvement, the guideline primarily recommends therapy with topical corticosteroids. UV therapy can also be recommended. In subtypes with severe skin or musculoskeletal involvement, systemic therapy with methotrexate is recommended. During the active phase of the disease, systemic glucocorticosteroids can be used additionally. In cases of methotrexate and steroid refractory courses, contraindications, or intolerance, mycophenolate mofetil, mycophenolic acid, or abatacept can be considered as second-line systemic therapies. In the case of linear LoS, autologous adipose-derived stem cell transplantation can also be performed for correcting soft tissue defects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Kreuter
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, Helios St. Elisabeth Hospital Oberhausen, Oberhausen, Germany
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, Helios St. Johannes Hospital Duisburg, Duisburg, Germany
| | - Pia Moinzadeh
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Maria Kinberger
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, Division of Evidence-Based Medicine (dEBM), Berlin, Germany
| | - Gerd Horneff
- Department of General Pediatrics, Asklepios Hospital, St. Augustin, Germany
| | - Margitta Worm
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ricardo N Werner
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, Division of Evidence-Based Medicine (dEBM), Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Thomas Krieg
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Jörg Wenzel
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology, University Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | | | - Lisa Weibel
- University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Robert Müllegger
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Landesklinikum Wiener Neustadt, Wiener Neustadt, Austria
| | - Nicolas Hunzelmann
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany
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Kreuter A, Moinzadeh P, Kinberger M, Horneff G, Worm M, Werner RN, Hammacher A, Krieg T, Wenzel J, Oeschger M, Weibel L, Müllegger R, Hunzelmann N. S2k‐Leitlinie: Diagnostik und Therapie der zirkumskripten Sklerodermie. J Dtsch Dermatol Ges 2024; 22:605-621. [PMID: 38574014 DOI: 10.1111/ddg.15328_g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
ZusammenfassungDie vorliegende aktualisierte S2k‐Leitlinie befasst sich mit der Diagnostik und der Therapie der zirkumskripten Sklerodermie (ZS). Diese umfasst ein Spektrum sklerotischer Erkrankungen der Haut mit, je nach Subtyp und Lokalisation, möglicher Beteiligung von hautnahen Strukturen wie Fettgewebe, Muskulatur, Gelenke und Knochen. Ein Befall innerer Organe oder ein Übergang in eine systemische Sklerodermie treten nicht auf. Eingeteilt werden kann die ZS in die vier Hauptformen der limitierten, generalisierten, linearen und gemischten Form. Teilweise existieren weitere Unterformen. Bei limitiertem Hautbefall empfiehlt die Leitlinie primär eine Therapie mit topischen Kortikosteroiden. Eine UV‐Therapie kann ebenfalls sinnvoll sein. Bei Subtypen mit schwerem Hautbefall oder muskuloskelettalem Befall wird eine systemische Therapie mit Methotrexat empfohlen. In der aktiven Phase der Erkrankung können ergänzend systemische Glukokortikosteroide eingesetzt werden. Bei MTX‐ und Steroid‐refraktären Verläufen, Kontraindikation oder Unverträglichkeit sollten Mycophenolat‐Mofetil, Mycophenolsäure oder Abatacept als Systemtherapie der zweiten Wahl eingesetzt werden. Bei einer linearen ZS kann zudem eine autologe Fettstammzelltransplantation zur Korrektur von Weichteildefekten erfolgen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Kreuter
- Klinik für Dermatologie, Venerologie und Allergologie, Helios St. Elisabeth Hospital Oberhausen, Oberhausen, Deutschland
- Klinik für Dermatologie, Venerologie und Allergologie, Helios St. Johannes Hospital Duisburg, Duisburg, Deutschland
| | - Pia Moinzadeh
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Dermatologie und Venerologie, Uniklinik Köln, Köln, Deutschland
| | - Maria Kinberger
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Klinik für Dermatologie, Venerologie und Allergologie, Division of Evidence-Based Medicine (dEBM), Berlin, Deutschland
| | - Gerd Horneff
- Allgemeine Kinder- und Jugendmedizin, Asklepios Klinik St. Augustin, St. Augustin, Deutschland
| | - Margitta Worm
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Klinik für Dermatologie, Venerologie und Allergologie, Berlin, Deutschland
| | - Ricardo N Werner
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Klinik für Dermatologie, Venerologie und Allergologie, Division of Evidence-Based Medicine (dEBM), Berlin, Deutschland
| | | | - Thomas Krieg
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Dermatologie und Venerologie, Uniklinik Köln, Köln, Deutschland
| | - Jörg Wenzel
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Dermatologie und Allergologie, Universität Bonn, Bonn, Deutschland
| | | | - Lisa Weibel
- Universitäts-Kinderspital Zürich, Zürich, Schweiz
| | - Robert Müllegger
- Abteilung für Dermatologie und Venerologie am Landesklinikum Wiener Neustadt, Wiener Neustadt, Österreich
| | - Nicolas Hunzelmann
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Dermatologie und Venerologie, Uniklinik Köln, Köln, Deutschland
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5
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Khorasanizadeh F, Kalantari Y, Etesami I. Role of imaging in morphea assessment: A review of the literature. Skin Res Technol 2023; 29:e13410. [PMID: 37522502 PMCID: PMC10318382 DOI: 10.1111/srt.13410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Localized scleroderma, known as morphea, is a connective tissue disorder characterized by inflammation and fibrosis of the skin and the soft tissue. There exist no universally accepted validated outcome measures in order to monitor the disease activity. Besides clinical scores to evaluate outcome measures, imaging modalities are increasingly utilized in assessing patients with morphea, such as high-frequency ultrasonography (US), shear-wave elastography (SWE), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). However, the accuracy of these imaging modalities in monitoring morphea activity is not yet clear. AIMS To review the literature regarding the role of imaging modalities in assessing patients with morphea. MATERIALS & METHODS In this study, we searched the PubMed/Medline database for articles published from inception until February 2023. RESULTS A total number of 23 original articles in three categories of US, elastography, and MRI were included. DISCUSSION Regarding US, criteria, including increased dermal thickness, increased echogenicity of the subcutaneous tissue, and decreased dermal echogenicity, were indicators of active morphea lesions when using high frequencies probe (18-20 MHz) color Doppler sonography. Moreover, studies evaluating SWE, a novel method to quantitatively assess tissue stiffness, demonstrated increased dermal stiffness in active lesions. CONCLUSION Studies showed that MRI can help to determine the depth of disease, particularly as a first-line and follow-up diagnostic tool, especially in generalized and deep morphea. In addition, brain MRI may be useful for patients with localized craniofacial scleroderma experiencing new or worsening neurological symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yasamin Kalantari
- Department of DermatologyRazi HospitalTehran University of Medical SciencesTehranIran
| | - Ifa Etesami
- Department of DermatologyRazi HospitalTehran University of Medical SciencesTehranIran
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6
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LaChance AH, Goldman N, Kassamali B, Vleugels RA. Immunologic underpinnings and treatment of morphea. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2022; 18:461-483. [DOI: 10.1080/1744666x.2022.2063841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Avery H. LaChance
- Department of Dermatology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Nathaniel Goldman
- Department of Dermatology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
- New York Medical College School of Medicine, Valhalla, NY
| | - Bina Kassamali
- Department of Dermatology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Ruth Ann Vleugels
- Department of Dermatology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
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7
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Prasad S, Zhu JL, Schollaert-Fitch K, Torok KS, Jacobe HT. An Evaluation of the Performance of Current Morphea Subtype Classifications. JAMA Dermatol 2021; 157:1-8. [PMID: 33595618 PMCID: PMC7890441 DOI: 10.1001/jamadermatol.2020.5809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
Importance Numerous classification systems for morphea subtypes exist, but none have been systematically evaluated for their ability to categorize patients with morphea into demographically and clinically coherent groups. Although some subtypes, such as linear morphea, are present across all the classification schemes, others list unique subtypes. This creates confusion among investigators and practitioners and impairs accurate categorization of patients for study and clinical evaluation. Objective To evaluate how frequently the commonly used morphea classification systems categorize patients with morphea into clinically relevant subtypes using cross-sectional analysis of 2 large patient cohorts. Design, Setting, and Participants This cross-sectional study comprised 944 adults and children from 2 prospective cohorts-the Morphea in Adults and Children at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center (Dallas, Texas), which enrolled participants from July 20, 2007, to September 21, 2018, and the National Registry for Childhood-Onset Scleroderma at the University of Pittsburgh (Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania), which enrolled participants from October 23, 2002, to November 13, 2018. Main Outcomes and Measures Patient demographic characteristics, morphea subtype, quality-of-life measures, disease activity, and damage as measured by Localized Scleroderma Cutaneous Assessment Tool scores during initial visits. Results A total of 944 participants (444 patients with adult-onset morphea and 500 patients with pediatric-onset morphea; 741 female participants [78%]; median age at onset, 16 years [interquartile range, 8-44 years]) were included in this study. Most participants were White (723 [77%]) and had the linear (474 [50%]) or generalized subtype of morphea (244 [26%]). With the use of the previously published Padua criteria, most patients were classified to have linear morphea (474 [50%]), followed by generalized morphea (244 [26%]), plaque morphea (141 [15%]), mixed morphea (38 [4%]), and pansclerotic morphea (3 [0.3%]). Overall, the Padua criteria successfully classified 900 patients (95%) in comparison with the Peterson criteria (533 [56%]) and the European Dermatology Forum classification (487 [52%]). Conclusions and Relevance In this cross-sectional study of morphea subtype classification systems, the Padua criteria performed best in classifying patients into subgroups with cohesive demographic and clinical features, supporting its widespread use. However, they have ambiguities that might lead to misclassification, particularly in terms of generalized and pansclerotic morphea and descriptors such as morphea profunda. Consensus-based approaches are needed to address these ambiguities and develop a unified classification scheme.
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Affiliation(s)
- Smriti Prasad
- Department of Dermatology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas
| | - Jane L Zhu
- Department of Dermatology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas
| | - Kaila Schollaert-Fitch
- University of Pittsburgh Scleroderma Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.,Pediatric Rheumatology, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Kathryn S Torok
- University of Pittsburgh Scleroderma Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.,Pediatric Rheumatology, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Heidi T Jacobe
- Department of Dermatology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas
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van Huizen AM, Vermeulen FM, Bik CMJM, Borgonjen R, Karsch SAT, Kuin RA, Gerbens LAA, Spuls PI. On which evidence can we rely when prescribing off-label methotrexate in dermatological practice? - a systematic review with GRADE approach. J DERMATOL TREAT 2021; 33:1947-1966. [PMID: 34425719 DOI: 10.1080/09546634.2021.1961999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
If an authorized drug is prescribed for a use that is not described in the Summary of Product Characteristics, this is defined as 'off-label use.' Methotrexate is often used off-label for dermatological indications. Off-label use is permitted if physicians can justify the treatment based on scientific evidence available to them. Our objective here was therefore to summarize the evidence for the effectiveness, efficacy, and safety of the dermatological off-label use of methotrexate in a systematic review. We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CENTRAL for studies for evidence on the effectiveness, efficacy, and safety of the off-label use of methotrexate in dermatological indications up to November 2019. We used the GRADE system to rate the quality of the evidence. The search retrieved 34,583 hits of which 3566 were selected after the title and abstract screening. After the full-text screening, 143 studies were included, which involved 3688 patients in total. We found low-quality evidence for the effectiveness, efficacy, and safety of the off-label use of methotrexate in 31 dermatological diseases. To optimize the quality of evidence to support off-label use, we need high-quality studies in which well-characterized patients are treated with standardized treatments regimens using well-validated outcomes relevant to patients and physicians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Astrid M van Huizen
- Department of Dermatology, Amsterdam Public Health, Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Francisca M Vermeulen
- Department of Dermatology, Amsterdam Public Health, Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Rinke Borgonjen
- Department of Dermatology, Gelderland Valley Hospital, Ede, The Netherlands
| | - Saskia A T Karsch
- Department of Family Medicine, UMC Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Rosanna A Kuin
- Department of Dermatology, Amsterdam Public Health, Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Louise A A Gerbens
- Department of Dermatology, Amsterdam Public Health, Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Phyllis I Spuls
- Department of Dermatology, Amsterdam Public Health, Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Li SC, O'Neil KM, Higgins GC. Morbidity and Disability in Juvenile Localized Scleroderma: The Case for Early Recognition and Systemic Immunosuppressive Treatment. J Pediatr 2021; 234:245-256.e2. [PMID: 33548257 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2021.01.068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2020] [Revised: 12/29/2020] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Suzanne C Li
- Joseph M. Sanzari Children's Hospital, Hackensack University Medical Center, Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, Hackensack, NJ.
| | - Kathleen M O'Neil
- Indiana University School of Medicine, Riley Hospital for Children at Indiana University Health, Indianapolis, IN
| | - Gloria C Higgins
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Rheumatology, The Ohio State University and Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH
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10
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Abbas L, Joseph A, Kunzler E, Jacobe HT. Morphea: progress to date and the road ahead. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2021; 9:437. [PMID: 33842658 PMCID: PMC8033330 DOI: 10.21037/atm-20-6222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Morphea is a rare autoimmune condition causing inflammation and sclerosis of the skin and underlying soft tissue. It is characterized by periods of activity (inflammation admixed with fibrosis), ultimately resulting in permanent damage (pigment change and tissue loss). Damage resulting from unchecked activity can lead to devastating, permanent cosmetic and functional sequelae including hair loss; cutaneous, soft tissue and bony atrophy; joint contractures; and growth restriction of the affected body site in children. This makes the early identification of activity and initiation of appropriate treatment crucial to limiting damage in morphea. To this end, recent investigative work has focused on validation of clinical, biomarker, imaging, and histologic outcomes aimed at accurately quantifying activity and damage. Despite promising results, further work is needed to better validate these measures before they can be used in the clinic and research settings. Although there has been recent approval of less toxic, targeted therapies for many inflammatory skin conditions, none have been systematically investigated in morphea. The mainstays of treatment for active morphea are corticosteroids and methotrexate. These are often limited by substantial toxicity. The paucity of new treatments for morphea is the result of a lack of studies examining its pathogenesis, with many reviews extrapolating from research in systemic sclerosis. Recent studies have demonstrated the role of dysregulated immune and fibrotic pathways in the pathogenesis of morphea, particularly interferon (IFN) gamma related pathways. Active morphea lesions have been found to display an inflammatory morphea signature with CXCR3 receptor ligands, as well as a distinct fibrotic signature reflecting fibroblast activation and collagen production. CXCL9 and 10 have been associated with increased measures of disease activity. While immune dysfunction is thought to play the primary role in morphea pathogenesis, there are other factors that may also contribute, including genetic predisposition, environmental factors, and vascular dysregulation. There remains an essential need for further research to elucidate the pathogenesis of morphea and the mode of action of dysregulated upstream and downstream immune and fibrotic pathways. These studies will allow for the discovery of novel biomarkers and targets for therapeutic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laila Abbas
- Department of Dermatology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Adrienne Joseph
- Department of Dermatology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Elaine Kunzler
- Department of Dermatology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Heidi T Jacobe
- Department of Dermatology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
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11
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Quintana-Castanedo L, Sánchez-Orta A, Nuno-Gonzalez A, Herranz-Pinto P. Usefulness of cutaneous ultrasound in the management of Parry Romberg syndrome. Skin Res Technol 2021; 27:644-645. [PMID: 33638229 DOI: 10.1111/srt.13013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Revised: 01/04/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Alba Sánchez-Orta
- Department of Dermatology, La Paz University Hospital, Madrid, Spain
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12
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Pérez M, Zuccaro J, Mohanta A, Tijerin M, Laxer R, Pope E, Doria AS. Feasibility of Using Elastography Ultrasound in Pediatric Localized Scleroderma (Morphea). ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE & BIOLOGY 2020; 46:3218-3227. [PMID: 32951932 DOI: 10.1016/j.ultrasmedbio.2020.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2019] [Revised: 08/04/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Assessment and monitoring of inflammation and tissue damage is crucial in localized scleroderma (LS), but validated diagnostic tools are lacking. We aimed to determine the feasibility of using acoustic radiation force imaging ultrasound elastography in the assessment of pediatric-onset LS lesions. Conventional ultrasound and shear-wave elastography (SWE) imaging were used to characterize changes in pre-assigned LS lesions in 13 prospectively recruited participants. Contralateral sites were used as controls. Mean SWE values were compared. LS lesions were significantly stiffer than control sites in the dermis and the hypodermis using both parametric and non-parametric tests, before and after skin-thickness normalization. We show that SWE imaging is a feasible way to discriminate between normal skin and LS lesions in the pediatric population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Pérez
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Medical Imaging, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Jennifer Zuccaro
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Institute of Medical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Arun Mohanta
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Marta Tijerin
- Radiology Department, Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias, Oviedo, Spain
| | - Ronald Laxer
- Division of Rheumatology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Section of Dermatology, Division of Pediatric Medicine, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Research Institute, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Elena Pope
- Section of Dermatology, Division of Pediatric Medicine, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Research Institute, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Pediatrics, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andrea S Doria
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Medical Imaging, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Research Institute, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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13
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Jones KM, Tan JK, Alomari AI, Son MB, Vleugels RA, Mulliken JB, Liang MG. Early Features of Progressive Hemifacial Atrophy-Clinical and Imaging Findings. JAMA Dermatol 2020; 156:1376-1379. [PMID: 32697295 DOI: 10.1001/jamadermatol.2020.2593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Krystal M Jones
- Dermatology Program, Division of Immunology, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jennifer K Tan
- Dermatology Program, Division of Immunology, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.,Department of Dermatology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston
| | - Ahmad I Alomari
- Division of Vascular and Interventional Radiology, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Mary Beth Son
- Rheumatology Program, Division of Immunology, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Ruth Ann Vleugels
- Dermatology Program, Division of Immunology, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.,Department of Dermatology, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - John B Mulliken
- Department of Plastic and Oral Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Marilyn G Liang
- Dermatology Program, Division of Immunology, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
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14
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Morris MS, Matcuk G, DeClerk BK, Arkfeld D, Stevanovic M. Linear Morphea With Inflammatory Myositis. J Hand Surg Am 2020; 45:782.e1-782.e5. [PMID: 31801651 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhsa.2019.10.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2019] [Accepted: 10/07/2019] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Morphea is an autoimmune disorder characterized by sclerosis and inflammation of the skin and soft tissues. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to minimize morbidity such as joint contracture. In this report, we present the case of a 19-year-old man with linear morphea with inflammatory myositis who presented to our clinic 1 year after symptom onset with severe elbow flexion contracture. Through reviewing this rare disorder, it is hoped that early diagnosis will lead to better outcomes in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Daniel Arkfeld
- Department of Rheumatology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA
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15
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Navallas M, Inarejos Clemente EJ, Iglesias E, Rebollo-Polo M, Antón J, Navarro OM. Connective Tissue Disorders in Childhood: Are They All the Same? Radiographics 2020; 39:229-250. [PMID: 30620697 DOI: 10.1148/rg.2019180078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Systemic connective tissue disorders are characterized by the presence of autoantibodies and multiorgan system involvement. Juvenile systemic lupus erythematosus with or without associated antiphospholipid syndrome; juvenile dermatomyositis; sclerodermiform syndromes, including systemic and localized sclerodermas and eosinophilic fasciitis; mixed connective tissue disease; and Sjögren syndrome are the disorders that affect children most frequently. Diagnosis is difficult, because the clinical presentation of patients is diverse, from mild to severe disease. In addition, all organs may be affected. However, a variety of imaging techniques are now available to investigate rheumatic disease in children. These imaging modalities offer the potential for earlier diagnosis and improved assessment of therapeutic response. This article reviews the main connective tissue disorders that affect children, highlighting their key imaging features on images acquired with different diagnostic imaging modalities and correlating these features with clinical and pathologic findings, when available. ©RSNA, 2019.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Navallas
- From the Departments of Radiology (M.N., E.J.I.C., M.R.P.) and Rheumatology (E.I., J.A.), Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Passeig Sant Joan de Déu 2, 08950 Esplugues de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain; Department of Medical Imaging, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada (M.N., O.M.N.); and Department of Diagnostic Imaging, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada (M.N., O.M.N.)
| | - Emilio J Inarejos Clemente
- From the Departments of Radiology (M.N., E.J.I.C., M.R.P.) and Rheumatology (E.I., J.A.), Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Passeig Sant Joan de Déu 2, 08950 Esplugues de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain; Department of Medical Imaging, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada (M.N., O.M.N.); and Department of Diagnostic Imaging, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada (M.N., O.M.N.)
| | - Estíbaliz Iglesias
- From the Departments of Radiology (M.N., E.J.I.C., M.R.P.) and Rheumatology (E.I., J.A.), Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Passeig Sant Joan de Déu 2, 08950 Esplugues de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain; Department of Medical Imaging, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada (M.N., O.M.N.); and Department of Diagnostic Imaging, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada (M.N., O.M.N.)
| | - Mónica Rebollo-Polo
- From the Departments of Radiology (M.N., E.J.I.C., M.R.P.) and Rheumatology (E.I., J.A.), Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Passeig Sant Joan de Déu 2, 08950 Esplugues de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain; Department of Medical Imaging, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada (M.N., O.M.N.); and Department of Diagnostic Imaging, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada (M.N., O.M.N.)
| | - Jordi Antón
- From the Departments of Radiology (M.N., E.J.I.C., M.R.P.) and Rheumatology (E.I., J.A.), Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Passeig Sant Joan de Déu 2, 08950 Esplugues de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain; Department of Medical Imaging, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada (M.N., O.M.N.); and Department of Diagnostic Imaging, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada (M.N., O.M.N.)
| | - Oscar M Navarro
- From the Departments of Radiology (M.N., E.J.I.C., M.R.P.) and Rheumatology (E.I., J.A.), Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Passeig Sant Joan de Déu 2, 08950 Esplugues de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain; Department of Medical Imaging, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada (M.N., O.M.N.); and Department of Diagnostic Imaging, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada (M.N., O.M.N.)
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16
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Flores Quispe SKJ, Cavaliere A, Weber M, Stramare R, Zuliani M, Quaia E, Zulian F, Giraudo C. Sarcopenia in juvenile localized scleroderma: new insights on deep involvement. Eur Radiol 2020; 30:4091-4097. [PMID: 32144460 DOI: 10.1007/s00330-020-06764-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2019] [Revised: 02/13/2020] [Accepted: 02/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Juvenile localized scleroderma (JLS) is a rare chronic autoimmune disease which can also affect bones and muscles. Nevertheless, muscle loss was not previously investigated in patients with JLS. Thus, the aim of this study was to retrospectively evaluate deep involvement and assess and quantify sarcopenia in JLS patients using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). METHODS Fourteen children with JLS (nine females, mean age ± SD, 7.1 ± 3.6 years) referring to our tertiary center from January 2012 to January 2018 who underwent at least one MRI examination including axial T1-weighted and short tau inversion recovery images were included. Two readers assessed in consensus superficial and deep involvement. Muscle edema, muscle fatty infiltration, and sarcopenia were independently scored (absent, moderate, or severe) and the Cohen's kappa coefficient computed. Skin perimeter, subcutaneous area, muscle area, and muscle volume were independently measured using the contralateral unaffected extremity as reference (paired Student's t test, p < 0.05). The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was used to investigate the reliability of the measurements. RESULTS All patients showed superficial involvement with subcutaneous fat atrophy being the most common finding (13 patients). Bone marrow edema occurred in five patients. Muscle edema affected ten children (moderate in seven, severe in three; k = 0.89), muscle fatty replacement occurred in one case (severe; k = 1.00), and sarcopenia was detected in eight patients (severe in two; k = 0.78). All quantitative parameters were lower on the affected side than on the unaffected contralateral limb (p < 0.05, each) and all measurements showed a high reliability (ICC > 0.750, each). CONCLUSION Patients with JLS can be affected by sarcopenia and quantitative analyses allow a robust characterization of such finding. KEY POINTS • Deep involvement in juvenile localized scleroderma is frequently characterized by sarcopenia. • In juvenile localized scleroderma, muscle edema and sarcopenia are mostly moderate while fatty infiltration, even if rare, can be severe. • Sarcopenia can be reliably quantified in children with juvenile localized scleroderma using MRI.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Annachiara Cavaliere
- Department of Medicine - DIMED, Radiology Institute, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani 2, 35100, Padua, Italy
| | - Michael Weber
- Department of Biomedical Imaging and Image-guided Therapy, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Roberto Stramare
- Department of Medicine - DIMED, Radiology Institute, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani 2, 35100, Padua, Italy
| | - Monica Zuliani
- Department of Medicine - DIMED, Radiology Institute, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani 2, 35100, Padua, Italy
| | - Emilio Quaia
- Department of Medicine - DIMED, Radiology Institute, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani 2, 35100, Padua, Italy
| | | | - Chiara Giraudo
- Department of Medicine - DIMED, Radiology Institute, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani 2, 35100, Padua, Italy.
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17
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Li SC, Zheng RJ. Overview of Juvenile localized scleroderma and its management. World J Pediatr 2020; 16:5-18. [PMID: 31786801 DOI: 10.1007/s12519-019-00320-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2019] [Accepted: 09/26/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Juvenile localized scleroderma (JLS) is a rare pediatric disease characterized by inflammation and skin thickening. JLS is associated with deep tissue and extracutaneous involvement that often results in functional impairment and growth disturbances. This article provides an overview of the disease with a focus on active features and treatment. DATA SOURCES We searched databases including PubMed, Elsevier and MedLine and Wanfang, reviewing publications from 2013 to 2019. Selected earlier publications were also reviewed. RESULTS Linear scleroderma is the most common JLS subtype. Several lines of evidence suggest that JLS is an autoimmune disease. Extracutaneous involvement is common and can present before the onset of skin disease. Multiple skin features are associated with disease activity, and activity can also manifest as arthritis, myositis, uveitis, seizures, and growth impairment. Systemic immunosuppressive treatment, commonly methotrexate with or without glucocorticoids, greatly improves outcome and is recommended for treating JLS patients with active disease and moderate or higher severity. Long term monitoring is needed because of the disease's chronicity and the high frequency of relapses off of treatment. CONCLUSIONS JLS is associated with a risk for disabling and disfiguring morbidity for the growing child. Identifying active disease is important for guiding treatment, but often difficult because of the paucity of markers and lack of a universal skin activity feature. More studies of JLS pathophysiology are needed to allow the identification of biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Comparative effectiveness treatment studies are also needed to work towards optimizing care and outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzanne C Li
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Rheumatology, Joseph M. Sanzari Children's Hospital, Hackensack University Medical Center, 30 Prospect Avenue, Imus 337, Hackensack, 07601, NJ, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine at Seton Hall University, Clifton, 07110, NJ, USA.
| | - Rong-Jun Zheng
- Department of Rheumatology, Immunology, and Allergy, Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
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18
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Zulian F, Culpo R, Sperotto F, Anton J, Avcin T, Baildam EM, Boros C, Chaitow J, Constantin T, Kasapcopur O, Knupp Feitosa de Oliveira S, Pilkington CA, Russo R, Toplak N, van Royen A, Saad Magalhães C, Vastert SJ, Wulffraat NM, Foeldvari I. Consensus-based recommendations for the management of juvenile localised scleroderma. Ann Rheum Dis 2019; 78:1019-1024. [PMID: 30826775 PMCID: PMC6691928 DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2018-214697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2018] [Revised: 01/17/2019] [Accepted: 02/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
In 2012, a European initiative called Single Hub and Access point for paediatric Rheumatology in Europe (SHARE) was launched to optimise and disseminate diagnostic and management regimens in Europe for children and young adults with rheumatic diseases. Juvenile localised scleroderma (JLS) is a rare disease within the group of paediatric rheumatic diseases (PRD) and can lead to significant morbidity. Evidence-based guidelines are sparse and management is mostly based on physicians' experience. This study aims to provide recommendations for assessment and treatment of JLS. Recommendations were developed by an evidence-informed consensus process using the European League Against Rheumatism standard operating procedures. A committee was formed, mainly from Europe, and consisted of 15 experienced paediatric rheumatologists and two young fellows. Recommendations derived from a validated systematic literature review were evaluated by an online survey and subsequently discussed at two consensus meetings using a nominal group technique. Recommendations were accepted if ≥80% agreement was reached. In total, 1 overarching principle, 10 recommendations on assessment and 6 recommendations on therapy were accepted with ≥80% agreement among experts. Topics covered include assessment of skin and extracutaneous involvement and suggested treatment pathways. The SHARE initiative aims to identify best practices for treatment of patients suffering from PRDs. Within this remit, recommendations for the assessment and treatment of JLS have been formulated by an evidence-informed consensus process to produce a standard of care for patients with JLS throughout Europe.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Roberta Culpo
- Pediatric Rheumatology, University of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | | | - Jordi Anton
- Pediatric Rheumatology, Hospital and Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Tadej Avcin
- Pediatric Rheumatology, University Children's Hospital Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Eileen M Baildam
- Paediatric Rheumatology, Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
| | - Christina Boros
- Discipline of Paediatrics, Women's and Children's Hospital, University of Adelaide, North Adelaide, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jeffrey Chaitow
- Pediatrics, Sydney Children's Hospital Network Randwick and Westmead, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Tamàs Constantin
- Unit of Paediatric Rheumatology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Ozgur Kasapcopur
- Pediatric Rheumatology, Istanbul University Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty, Istanbul, Turkey
| | | | | | - Ricardo Russo
- Servicio de Inmunología/Reumatología, Hospital de Pediatria Juan P Garrahan, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Natasa Toplak
- Pediatric Rheumatology, University Children's Hospital Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Annet van Royen
- Department of Paediatric Immunology, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Claudia Saad Magalhães
- Departamento de Pediatria, Faculdade de Medicina de Botucatu, Hospital das Clínicas, UNESP, Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Sebastiaan J Vastert
- Department of Paediatric Immunology, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Nico M Wulffraat
- Department of Paediatric Immunology, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Ivan Foeldvari
- Klinikum Eilbek, Hamburger Zentrum für Kinder-und Jugendrheumatologie, Hamburg, Germany
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19
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Khatri S, Torok KS, Mirizio E, Liu C, Astakhova K. Autoantibodies in Morphea: An Update. Front Immunol 2019; 10:1487. [PMID: 31354701 PMCID: PMC6634257 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.01487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2019] [Accepted: 06/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Skin autoimmune conditions belong to a larger group of connective tissue diseases and primarily affect the skin, but might also involve underlying tissues, such as fat tissue, muscle, and bone. Autoimmune antibodies (autoantibodies) play a role in autoimmune skin diseases, such as localized scleroderma also termed morphea, and systemic scleroderma, also called systemic sclerosis (SSc). The detailed studies on the biological role of autoantibodies in autoimmune skin diseases are limited. This results in a few available tools for effective diagnosis and management of autoimmune skin diseases. This review aims to provide an update on the detection and most recent research on autoantibodies in morphea. Several recent studies have indicated the association of autoantibody profiles with disease subtypes, damage extent, and relapse potential, opening up exciting new possibilities for personalized disease management. We discuss the role of existing autoantibody tests in morphea management and the most recent studies on morphea pathogenesis. We also provide an update on novel autoantibody biomarkers for the diagnosis and study of morphea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sangita Khatri
- Department of Chemistry, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Kathryn S. Torok
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Emily Mirizio
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Christopher Liu
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Kira Astakhova
- Department of Chemistry, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
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Barakat E, Kirchgesner T, Triqueneaux P, Galant C, Stoenoiu M, Lecouvet FE. Whole-Body Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Rheumatic and Systemic Diseases. Magn Reson Imaging Clin N Am 2018; 26:581-597. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mric.2018.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
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21
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Whole Body MRI: Non-oncological Musculoskeletal Applications. CURRENT RADIOLOGY REPORTS 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s40134-018-0298-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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22
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Magnetic Resonance Imaging Evaluation in Patients with Linear Morphea Treated with Methotrexate and High-Dose Corticosteroid. Dermatol Res Pract 2018; 2018:8391218. [PMID: 30057597 PMCID: PMC6051098 DOI: 10.1155/2018/8391218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2018] [Revised: 05/04/2018] [Accepted: 05/30/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Morphea is an inflammatory disease of the connective tissue that may lead to thickening and hardening of the skin due to fibrosis. The aim of this study was to document magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) changes in patients with linear morphea who were treated with methotrexate (MTX) and high-dose corticosteroid. Methods This study was conducted on 33 patients from the outpatient's dermatology clinic of our institute, who fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Patients received 15 mg/week of MTX and monthly pulses of methylprednisolone for three days in six months. The effectiveness of the treatment was evaluated by MRI, modified LS skin severity index (mLoSSI), and localized scleroderma damage index (LoSDI). Results All parameters of mLoSSI and LoSDI including erythema, skin thickness, new lesion/lesion extension, dermal atrophy, subcutaneous atrophy, and dyspigmentation were also noticeably improved after treatment. Subcutaneous fat enhancement was the most common finding in MRI. MRI scores were significantly associated with clinical markers both before and after the treatment with the exception of skin thickness and new lesion/lesion extension which were not associated with MRI scores before and after the treatment, respectively. Limitations The lack of correlative laboratory disease activity markers, control group, and clearly defined criteria to judge the MRI changes. Conclusion MRI could be a promising tool for the assessment of musculoskeletal and dermal involvement and also monitoring treatment response in patients with morphea.
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Martini G, Fadanelli G, Agazzi A, Vittadello F, Meneghel A, Zulian F. Disease course and long-term outcome of juvenile localized scleroderma: Experience from a single pediatric rheumatology Centre and literature review. Autoimmun Rev 2018; 17:727-734. [DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2018.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2018] [Accepted: 02/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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Agazzi A, Fadanelli G, Vittadello F, Zulian F, Martini G. Reliability of LoSCAT score for activity and tissue damage assessment in a large cohort of patients with Juvenile Localized Scleroderma. Pediatr Rheumatol Online J 2018; 16:37. [PMID: 29914516 PMCID: PMC6006585 DOI: 10.1186/s12969-018-0254-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2018] [Accepted: 06/08/2018] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess reliability of the two indexes of Localized Scleroderma Cutaneous Assessment Tool (LoSCAT), the modified Localized Scleroderma Skin Severity Index (mLoSSI) and the Localized Scleroderma Skin Damage Index (LoSDI), when applied by clinicians with different experience in scoring and managing patients with JLS. Secondary aim was to compare LoSCAT and infrared thermography (IRT) in monitoring lesions over time. METHODS Consecutive children with Juvenile Localized Scleroderma (JLS) were blindly evaluated by three examiners with different experience in Paediatric Rheumatology and with no experience in LoSCAT use. At each visit, patients were assessed by LoSCAT and IRT. Sensitivity to change of LoSCAT and IRT was assessed in a group of patients 3-6 months later. Inter-rater reliability was assessed by Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) and variance analysis (ANOVA). FINDINGS Forty-seven patients (129 lesions) entered the study, and 26 (79 lesions) were re-evaluated with same modality after 4.5 (SD 1.5) months. mLoSSI showed excellent inter-rater reliability expressed by ICC 0.965 confirmed by ANOVA. Similarly, inter-rater reliability for LoSDI was good (ICC = 0.774) but worse concordance among examiners was observed. A comparable improvement of mLoSSI in all anatomic sites was noted by all examiners in 79 lesions examined in two subsequent visits and was consistent with thermography. CONCLUSIONS Different clinical experience in JLS did not influence clinical judgement in mLoSSI which showed excellent concordance, whereas LoSDI is less precise in damage assessment and not completely reliable in monitoring skin changes. Infrared thermography confirms to be a helpful tool for detecting disease activity and reliable in monitoring lesions over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Agazzi
- 0000 0004 1757 3470grid.5608.bPaediatric Rheumatology Unit, Department of Woman and Child Health, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani 2, 35128 Padova, Italy
| | - Gloria Fadanelli
- 0000 0004 1763 6494grid.415176.0Paediatric Unit, Santa Chiara Hospital, Trento, Italy
| | - Fabio Vittadello
- 0000 0004 1757 3470grid.5608.bPaediatric Rheumatology Unit, Department of Woman and Child Health, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani 2, 35128 Padova, Italy
| | - Francesco Zulian
- 0000 0004 1757 3470grid.5608.bPaediatric Rheumatology Unit, Department of Woman and Child Health, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani 2, 35128 Padova, Italy
| | - Giorgia Martini
- Paediatric Rheumatology Unit, Department of Woman and Child Health, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani 2, 35128, Padova, Italy.
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25
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Clinical Usefulness of Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Four Children With Scleroderma. Arch Rheumatol 2017; 33:230-235. [PMID: 30207558 DOI: 10.5606/archrheumatol.2018.6498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2017] [Accepted: 08/31/2017] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Children with localized scleroderma may have more serious sequelae than adults with the disease. In this case report, we analyzed four girls with localized scleroderma (generalized morphea) to evaluate the clinical usefulness of magnetic resonance imaging in facilitating disease control and investigating patient responsiveness to various treatments. Two of the children had flexion contracture, and two displayed a clear high-intensity area in the bone marrow under the sclerotic skin on magnetic resonance imaging. Two girls had different bilateral circumferences of the legs or forearms. These abnormalities were detected without any obvious changes in blood chemistry. Our results demonstrated that magnetic resonance imaging is useful for the evaluation of treatment effects for localized scleroderma in children.
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Abstract
Morphea, also known as localized scleroderma, encompasses a group of idiopathic sclerotic skin diseases. The spectrum ranges from relatively mild phenotypes, which generally cause few problems besides local discomfort and visible disfigurement, to subtypes with severe complications such as joint contractures and limb length discrepancies. Eosinophilic fasciitis (EF, Shulman syndrome) is often regarded as belonging to the severe end of the morphea spectrum. The exact driving mechanisms behind morphea and EF pathogenesis remain to be elucidated. However, extensive extracellular matrix formation and autoimmune dysfunction are thought to be key pathogenic processes. Likewise, these processes are considered essential in systemic sclerosis (SSc) pathogenesis. In addition, similarities in clinical presentation between morphea and SSc have led to many theories about their relatedness. Importantly, morphea may be differentiated from SSc based on absence of sclerodactyly, Raynaud’s phenomenon, and nailfold capillary changes. The diagnosis of morphea is often based on characteristic clinical findings. Histopathological evaluation of skin biopsies and laboratory tests are not necessary in the majority of morphea cases. However, full-thickness skin biopsies, containing fascia and muscle tissue, are required for the diagnosis of EF. Monitoring of disease activity and damage, especially of subcutaneous involvement, is one of the most challenging aspects of morphea care. Therefore, data harmonization is crucial for optimizing standard care and for comparability of study results. Recently, the localized scleroderma cutaneous assessment tool (LoSCAT) has been developed and validated for morphea. The LoSCAT is currently the most widely reported outcome measure for morphea. Care providers should take disease subtype, degree of activity, depth of involvement, and quality-of-life impairments into account when initiating treatment. In most patients with circumscribed superficial subtypes, treatment with topical therapies suffices. In more widespread disease, UVA1 phototherapy or systemic treatment with methotrexate (MTX), with or without a systemic corticosteroid combination, should be initiated. Disappointingly, few alternatives for MTX have been described and additional research is still needed to optimize treatment for these debilitating conditions. In this review, we present a state-of-the-art flow chart that guides care providers in the treatment of morphea and EF.
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Early- and late-stage morphea subtypes with deep tissue involvement is treatable with Abatacept (Orencia). Semin Arthritis Rheum 2017; 46:775-781. [DOI: 10.1016/j.semarthrit.2016.08.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2016] [Revised: 08/22/2016] [Accepted: 08/30/2016] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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28
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Musculoskeletal MRI findings of juvenile localized scleroderma. Pediatr Radiol 2017; 47:442-449. [PMID: 28091699 DOI: 10.1007/s00247-016-3765-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2016] [Revised: 10/17/2016] [Accepted: 12/06/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Juvenile localized scleroderma comprises a group of autoimmune conditions often characterized clinically by an area of skin hardening. In addition to superficial changes in the skin and subcutaneous tissues, juvenile localized scleroderma may involve the deep soft tissues, bones and joints, possibly resulting in functional impairment and pain in addition to cosmetic changes. OBJECTIVE There is literature documenting the spectrum of findings for deep involvement of localized scleroderma (fascia, muscles, tendons, bones and joints) in adults, but there is limited literature for the condition in children. We aimed to document the spectrum of musculoskeletal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings of both superficial and deep juvenile localized scleroderma involvement in children and to evaluate the utility of various MRI sequences for detecting those findings. MATERIALS AND METHODS Two radiologists retrospectively evaluated 20 MRI studies of the extremities in 14 children with juvenile localized scleroderma. Each imaging sequence was also given a subjective score of 0 (not useful), 1 (somewhat useful) or 2 (most useful for detecting the findings). RESULTS Deep tissue involvement was detected in 65% of the imaged extremities. Fascial thickening and enhancement were seen in 50% of imaged extremities. Axial T1, axial T1 fat-suppressed (FS) contrast-enhanced and axial fluid-sensitive sequences were rated most useful. CONCLUSION Fascial thickening and enhancement were the most commonly encountered deep tissue findings in extremity MRIs of children with juvenile localized scleroderma. Because abnormalities of the skin, subcutaneous tissues and fascia tend to run longitudinally in an affected limb, axial T1, axial fluid-sensitive and axial T1-FS contrast-enhanced sequences should be included in the imaging protocol.
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Lis-Święty A, Janicka I, Skrzypek-Salamon A, Brzezińska-Wcisło L. A systematic review of tools for determining activity of localized scleroderma in paediatric and adult patients. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2016; 31:30-37. [PMID: 27401109 DOI: 10.1111/jdv.13790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2016] [Accepted: 04/26/2016] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Localized scleroderma (LoS) is a rare inflammatory skin disorder that affects the dermis and sometimes subcutaneous tissues. LoS can have very long periods of quiescence followed by reactivation, but the progression or activity of the disease is difficult to measure. To review the measuring tools used for the evaluation of LoS activity, to choose the most appropriate technique to facilitate progress towards properly assessing the disease, a systematic review of the literature was carried out using the PubMed MEDLINE. Sixty-three studies describing groups of children, adults or both were reviewed and included in the analysis. Case reports were excluded. The analysed papers were published between June 1986 and February 2016. Data were extracted with a focus on instruments measuring the clinical signs of LoS, health-related quality of life (HRQoL), laboratory tests and imaging techniques. Perusal of the literature confirmed that clinical characteristics of the lesions were used to identify activity and scoring systems that focused on a series of signs, and were initially validated in cases of childhood-onset disease; however, there were no data concerning the adult-onset form of the disease. Adult patients with LoS scored lower on HDLQI than those with paediatric-onset LoS. No validated biological markers were available as correlative laboratory parameters of LoS activity. For infrared thermography, ultrasound and other imaging techniques, the features of active lesions were described, but were only useful with appropriate clinical correlation. Measuring tools have not been prospectively validated yet. Summarizing, scoring methods seem to provide the most adequate assessment of LoS and deserve to be further investigated. Combined imaging techniques create optimal conditions for the proper interpretation of the temperature at the skin surface, as well as the structure and vascularity of LoS lesions. Additional scores, musculoskeletal or neuroimaging techniques and laboratory parameters are needed for the specific disease subtypes to monitor extracutaneous manifestations.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Lis-Święty
- School of Medicine in Katowice, Chair and Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - I Janicka
- School of Medicine in Katowice, Chair and Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - A Skrzypek-Salamon
- School of Medicine in Katowice, Chair and Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - L Brzezińska-Wcisło
- School of Medicine in Katowice, Chair and Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
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Updates on morphea: role of vascular injury and advances in treatment. Autoimmune Dis 2013; 2013:467808. [PMID: 24319593 PMCID: PMC3844232 DOI: 10.1155/2013/467808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2013] [Accepted: 09/18/2013] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Morphea and systemic sclerosis are fibrosing disorders of the skin that share common inflammatory and immunologic pathways that are responsible for the vascular changes, increased collagen production, and extracellular matrix proliferation seen in both conditions. Recent advances in molecular biology techniques have furthered our knowledge of the potential underlying pathogenic mechanisms and offer new and provocative areas of research for novel diagnostic and therapeutic interventions. This review focuses on the role of vascular injury in the development of morphea, the use of ultrasonography as a diagnostic modality, and well-established and newly proposed treatments.
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