Patient-perspective and feasibility of home finger-prick testing to complement and facilitate large-scale research in rheumatology

BACKGROUND

During the COVID-19 pandemic, we developed a digital research platform to longitudinally investigate COVID-19-related outcomes in patients with rheumatic diseases and healthy controls. We used home finger-prick testing in order to collect serum samples remotely and increase the overall efficiency of the platform. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the success rate of the finger prick and patients' perspective towards the finger prick.

METHODS

Serum samples were collected up to five times during follow-up, either via a venepuncture at the research institute or a finger prick from participants' home. Participants were asked to complete a digital evaluation questionnaire of the finger prick after their attempts.

RESULTS

A total of 2135 patients and 899 controls performed at least one finger prick and were included in this study. The first finger prick was successfully done by 92% (95% CI: 90% to 93%) of patients, 94% (95% CI: 92% to 95%) of controls, 93% (95% CI: 92% to 94%) of all participants aged ≤70 years and 89% (95% CI: 86% to 92%) of all participants aged >70 years. Sex did not impact these success rates. Repeated failure occurred in 11/439 (0.8%) patients and 4/712 (0.6%) controls. Both patients and controls were less willing to perform a finger prick for individual healthcare compared with scientific research.

CONCLUSION

The vast majority of participants, among which elderly and patients with rheumatic diseases, were able to successfully draw the required amount of blood for serological analyses. This shows that finger-prick testing is suitable for a high-throughput implementation to monitor patients remotely.

Time to talk to adults with rheumatic diseases about herpes zoster vaccination

The 2019 European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR) recommendations on herpes zoster vaccination for adult patients with rheumatic immune-mediated inflammatory diseases stated that these patients are at increased risk of herpes zoster compared with the general population. However, these recommendations lack clarity and specificity and are cautiously phrased, which might cause physicians to underestimate the importance of herpes zoster vaccination for these patients, potentially resulting in suboptimal protection. Since the formulation of the 2019 EULAR guidelines, new data on herpes zoster in patients with immune-mediated inflammatory diseases have been published. Moreover, a recombinant herpes zoster vaccine (Shingrix) has become available that can be given to these patients in a more accessible manner than the original live-attenuated vaccine (Zostavax). Here, we evaluate existing evidence on risk factors for herpes zoster and the safety and efficacy of the recombinant vaccine in patients with rheumatic immune-mediated inflammatory diseases and discuss the necessity of herpes zoster vaccination for these patients.

Work participation and the COVID-19 pandemic: an observational study in people with inflammatory rheumatic diseases and population controls

Objective

During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) crisis, people with inflammatory rheumatic diseases (iRDs) might have been more vulnerable for adverse work outcomes (AWOs) and restrictions in work ability and work performance. Our objectives were to compare AWOs during the pandemic and current work ability between iRD patients and controls, understand which patients are most vulnerable for these outcomes and (3) explore the role of work characteristics on work performance while working remotely.

Methods

Patients and population controls in a Dutch COVID-19 cohort study provided information in March 2022 on work participation in March 2020 (pre-pandemic, retrospective) and March 2022 (current). AWOs comprised withdrawal from paid work, working hours reduction or long-term sick leave. Multivariable logistic/linear regression analyses compared outcomes (AWOs/work ability) between groups (patients/controls) and within patients.

Results

Of the pre-pandemic working participants, 227/977 (23%) patients and 79/430 (18%) controls experienced AWOs following pandemic onset. A minority of AWOs (15%) were attributed to COVID-19. Patients were more likely to experience any-cause AWOs (odds ratio range 1.63-3.34) but not COVID-related AWOs, with female patients and patients with comorbidities or physically demanding jobs being most vulnerable. Current work ability was lower in female patients compared with controls [β = -0.66 (95% CI -0.92 to -0.40)]. In both groups, when working remotely, care for children and absence of colleagues had varying effects on work performance (positive 19% and 24%, negative 34% and 57%, respectively), while employer support and reduced commuting had mainly positive effects (83% and 86%, respectively).

Conclusion

During the pandemic, people with iRDs remained at increased risk of AWOs. COVID-related AWOs, however, were infrequent.

Suppressed IgG4 class switching in dupilumab- and TNF inhibitor-treated patients after mRNA vaccination

BACKGROUND

The noninflammatory immunoglobulin G4 (IgG4) is linked to tolerance and is unique to humans. Although poorly understood, prolonged antigenic stimulation and IL-4-signaling along the T helper 2-axis may be instrumental in IgG4 class switching. Recently, repeated SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccination has been linked to IgG4 skewing. Although widely used immunosuppressive drugs have been shown to only moderately affect humoral responses to SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccination, the effect on IgG4 switching has not been investigated.

METHODS

Here we study the impact of such immunosuppressive drugs, including the IL-4 receptor-blocking antibody dupilumab, on IgG4 skewing upon repeated SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccination. Receptor-binding domain (RBD) specific antibody responses were longitudinally measured in 600 individuals, including patients with immune-mediated inflammatory diseases treated with a TNF inhibitor (TNFi) and/or methotrexate (MTX), dupilumab, and healthy/untreated controls, after repeated mRNA vaccination.

RESULTS

We observed a substantial increase in the proportion of RBD-specific IgG4 antibodies (median 21%) in healthy/untreated controls after third vaccination. This IgG4 skewing was profoundly reduced in dupilumab-treated patients (<1%). Unexpectedly, an equally strong suppression of IgG4 skewing was observed in TNFi-treated patients (<1%), whereas MTX caused a modest reduction (7%). RBD-specific total IgG levels were hardly affected by these immunosuppressive drugs. Minimal skewing was observed, when primary vaccination was adenoviral vector-based.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results imply a critical role for IL-4/IL-13 as well as TNF in vivo IgG4 class switching. These novel findings advance our understanding of IgG4 class switch dynamics, and may benefit humoral tolerance induction strategies, treatment of IgG4 pathologies and mRNA vaccine optimization.

Longitudinal rheumatoid factor autoantibody responses after SARS-CoV-2 vaccination or infection

Background

Rheumatoid factors (RFs) are autoantibodies that target the Fc region of IgG, and are found in patients with rheumatic diseases as well as in the healthy population. Many studies suggest that an immune trigger may (transiently) elicit RF responses. However, discrepancies between different studies make it difficult to determine if and to which degree RF reactivity can be triggered by vaccination or infection.

Objective

We quantitatively explored longitudinal RF responses after SARS-CoV-2 vaccination and infection in a well-defined, large cohort using a dual ELISA method that differentiates between true RF reactivity and background IgM reactivity. In addition, we reviewed existing literature on RF responses after vaccination and infection.

Methods

151 healthy participants and 30 RA patients were included to measure IgM-RF reactivity before and after SARS-CoV-2 vaccinations by ELISA. Additionally, IgM-RF responses after a SARS-CoV-2 breakthrough infection were studied in 51 healthy participants.

Results

Published prevalence studies in subjects after infection report up to 85% IgM-RF seropositivity. However, seroconversion studies (both infection and vaccination) report much lower incidences of 2-33%, with a trend of lower percentages observed in larger studies. In the current study, SARS-CoV-2 vaccination triggered low-level IgM-RF responses in 5.5% (8/151) of cases, of which 1.5% (2/151) with a level above 10 AU/mL. Breakthrough infection was accompanied by development of an IgM-RF response in 2% (1/51) of cases.

Conclusion

Our study indicates that de novo RF induction following vaccination or infection is an uncommon event, which does not lead to RF epitope spreading.

Tocilizumab Dose Tapering Based on a Model-Based Algorithm is Feasible in Clinical Practice: A Short Communication

BACKGROUND

Tocilizumab in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a potential candidate for concentration-guided tapering because the standard dose of tocilizumab results in a wide range of serum concentrations, usually above the presumed therapeutic window, and an exposure-response relationship has been described. However, no clinical trials have been published to date on this subject. Therefore, the objective of this study was to assess the feasibility of the tapering of intravenous (iv) tocilizumab with the use of a pharmacokinetic model-based algorithm in RA patients.

METHODS

A randomized controlled trial with a double-blind design and follow-up of 24 weeks was conducted. RA patients who received the standard of tocilizumab for at least the past 24 weeks, which is 8 mg/kg every 4 weeks, were included. Patients with a tocilizumab serum concentration above 5 mg/L at trough were randomized between concentration-guided dose tapering, referred to as therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM), or the standard 8 mg/kg dose. In the TDM group, the tocilizumab dose was tapered with a recently published model-based algorithm to achieve a target concentration of 4-6 mg/L after 20 weeks of dose tapering.

RESULTS

Twelve RA patients were included and 10 were randomized between the TDM and standard dose group. The study was feasible regarding the predefined feasibility criteria and patients had a positive attitude toward therapeutic drug monitoring. In the TDM group, the tocilizumab trough concentration within patients decreased on average by 24.5 ± 18.3 mg/L compared with a decrease of 2.8 ± 12 mg/L in the standard dose group. None of the patients in the TDM group reached the drug range of 4-6 mg/L. Instead, tocilizumab concentrations of 1.6 and 1.5 mg/L were found for the 2 patients who completed follow-up on the tapered dose. No differences in RA disease activity were observed between the 2 study groups.

CONCLUSIONS

This study was the first to show that it is feasible to apply a dose-reduction algorithm based on a pharmacokinetic model in clinical practice. However, the current algorithm needs to be optimized before it can be applied on a larger scale.

Cardiovascular disease risk in patients with inflammatory arthritis nowadays still substantially elevated

OBJECTIVES

This study aims to assess current cardiovascular disease risk and prevalence of risk factors in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), psoriatic arthritis (PsA) and axial spondyloarthritis (SpA).

METHODS

2050 consecutive patients with inflammatory arthritis (IA) and 939 controls were included, with 1308 patients with RA, 356 patients with PsA and 386 patients with SpA. In a prospective cohort setting, questionnaires regarding previous cardiovascular events and risk factors were used to assess cardiovascular risk and prevalence in patients with IA by calculating ORs using logistic regression models.

RESULTS

'Traditional' cardiovascular (CV) risk factors were significantly elevated in patients with IA compared with controls. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) ORs were increased in patients with RA and PsA compared with controls, 1.61 (95% CI: 1.04 to 2.48) and 2.12 (95% CI: 1.23 to 3.66), respectively, and a trend towards increased odds was observed in patients with SpA (OR 1.43; 95% CI: 0.79 to 2.59). After adjusting for traditional risk factors, CV risk was not increased in patients with RA (OR; 0.95, 95% CI: 0.58 to 1.55), PsA (OR 1.19; 95% CI: 0.64 to 2.22) and SpA (OR; 0.91, 95% CI: 0.47 to 1.77).

CONCLUSION

CVD is currently still more prevalent in patients with IA compared with healthy controls and, more importantly, this elevated risk is highly influenced by an increased prevalence of 'traditional' CV risk factors. More attention to, as well as improvements in, identification and treatment of 'traditional' risk factors, need to be made for not only RA, but other IA conditions as well.

Primary SARS-CoV-2 infection in patients with immune-mediated inflammatory diseases: long-term humoral immune responses and effects on disease activity

BACKGROUND

Patients with immune-mediated inflammatory diseases (IMIDs) on immunosuppressants (ISPs) may have impaired long-term humoral immune responses and increased disease activity after SARS-CoV-2 infection. We aimed to investigate long-term humoral immune responses against SARS-CoV-2 and increased disease activity after a primary SARS-CoV-2 infection in unvaccinated IMID patients on ISPs.

METHODS

IMID patients on active treatment with ISPs and controls (i.e. IMID patients not on ISP and healthy controls) with a confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection before first vaccination were included from an ongoing prospective cohort study (T2B! study). Clinical data on infections and increased disease activity were registered using electronic surveys and health records. A serum sample was collected before first vaccination to measure SARS-CoV-2 anti-receptor-binding domain (RBD) antibodies.

RESULTS

In total, 193 IMID patients on ISP and 113 controls were included. Serum samples from 185 participants were available, with a median time of 173 days between infection and sample collection. The rate of seropositive IMID patients on ISPs was 78% compared to 100% in controls (p < 0.001). Seropositivity rates were lowest in patients on anti-CD20 (40.0%) and anti-tumor necrosis factor (TNF) agents (60.5%), as compared to other ISPs (p < 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively). Increased disease activity after infection was reported by 68 of 260 patients (26.2%; 95% CI 21.2-31.8%), leading to ISP intensification in 6 out of these 68 patients (8.8%).

CONCLUSION

IMID patients using ISPs showed reduced long-term humoral immune responses after primary SARS-CoV-2 infection, which was mainly attributed to treatment with anti-CD20 and anti-TNF agents. Increased disease activity after SARS-CoV-2 infection was reported commonly, but was mostly mild.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

NL74974.018.20, Trial ID: NL8900. Registered on 9 September 2020.

Disease activity in patients with immune-mediated inflammatory diseases after SARS-CoV-2 vaccinations

For patients with immune-mediated inflammatory diseases (IMIDs), concerns exist about increased disease activity after vaccination. We aimed to assess changes in disease activity after SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in patients with IMIDs, and determine risk factors for increased disease activity. In this substudy of a prospective observational cohort study (Target-to-B!), we included patients with IMIDs who received a SARS-CoV-2 vaccine. Patients reported changes in disease activity on a five-point Likert scale every 60 days for up to twelve months after first vaccination. In case of self-reported increased activity, hospital records were screened whether the treating physician reported increased activity, and for potential intensification of immunosuppressive (ISP) treatment. Mixed models were used to study determinants for self-reported increased disease activity. In total, 2111 patients were included for analysis after primary immunization (mean age 49.7 years [SD 13.7], 1329/2111 (63.0%) female), from which 1266 patients for analysis after first additional vaccination. Increased disease activity at 60 days after start of primary immunization was reported by 223/2111 (10.6%). In 96/223 (43.0%) the increase was confirmed by the treating physician and in 36/223 (16.1%) ISP treatment was intensified. Increased disease activity at seven to 60 days after additional vaccination, was reported by 139/1266 (11.0%). Vaccinations were not temporally associated with self-reported increased disease activity. Conversely, increased disease activity before first vaccination, neuromuscular disease, and multiple sclerosis were associated. Altogether, self-reported increased disease activity after vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 was recorded in a minority of patients and was generally mild. Moreover, multivariate analyses suggest that disease related factors, but not vaccinations are the major determinants for self-reported increased disease activity.

Breakthrough infections with the SARS-CoV-2 omicron (B.1.1.529) variant in patients with immune-mediated inflammatory diseases

Objectives

To compare the cumulative incidence and disease severity of reported SARS-CoV-2 omicron breakthrough infections between patients with immune-mediated inflammatory diseases (IMID) on immunosuppressants and controls, and to investigate determinants for breakthrough infections.

Methods

Data were used from an ongoing national prospective multicentre cohort study on SARS-CoV-2 vaccination responses in patients with IMID in the Netherlands (Target-to-B! (T2B!) study). Patients wih IMID on immunosuppressants and controls (patients with IMID not on immunosuppressants and healthy controls) who completed primary immunisation were included. The observation period was between 1 January 2022 and 1 April 2022, during which the SARS-CoV-2 omicron (BA.1 and BA.2 subvariant) was dominant. A SARS-CoV-2 breakthrough infection was defined as a reported positive PCR and/or antigen test at least 14 days after primary immunisation. A multivariate logistic regression model was used to investigate determinants.

Results

1593 patients with IMID on immunosuppressants and 579 controls were included. The cumulative incidence of breakthrough infections was 472/1593 (29.6%; 95% CI 27% to 32%) in patients with IMID on immunosuppressants and 181/579 (31.3%; 95% CI 28% to 35%) in controls (p=0.42). Three (0.5%) participants had severe disease. Seroconversion after primary immunisation (relative risk, RR 0.71; 95% CI 0.52 to 0.96), additional vaccinations (RR 0.61; 95% CI 0.49 to 0.76) and a prior SARS-CoV-2 infection (RR 0.60; 95% CI 0.48 to 0.75) were associated with decreased risk of breakthrough infection.

Conclusions

The cumulative incidence of reported SARS-CoV-2 omicron breakthrough infections was high, but similar between patients with IMID on immunosuppressants and controls, and disease severity was mostly mild. Additional vaccinations and prior SARS-CoV-2 infections may reduce the incidence of breakthrough infections.

Immune dynamics in SARS-CoV-2 experienced immunosuppressed rheumatoid arthritis or multiple sclerosis patients vaccinated with mRNA-1273

Background

Patients affected by different types of autoimmune diseases, including common conditions such as multiple sclerosis (MS) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA), are often treated with immunosuppressants to suppress disease activity. It is not fully understood how the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)-specific humoral and cellular immunity induced by infection and/or upon vaccination is affected by immunosuppressants.

Methods

The dynamics of cellular immune reactivation upon vaccination of SARS-CoV-2 experienced MS patients treated with the humanized anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody ocrelizumab (OCR) and RA patients treated with methotrexate (MTX) monotherapy were analyzed at great depth via high-dimensional flow cytometry of whole blood samples upon vaccination with the SARS-CoV-2 mRNA-1273 (Moderna) vaccine. Longitudinal B and T cell immune responses were compared to SARS-CoV-2 experienced healthy controls (HCs) before and 7 days after the first and second vaccination.

Results

OCR-treated MS patients exhibit a preserved recall response of CD8+ T central memory cells following first vaccination compared to HCs and a similar CD4+ circulating T follicular helper 1 and T helper 1 dynamics, whereas humoral and B cell responses were strongly impaired resulting in absence of SARS-CoV-2-specific humoral immunity. MTX treatment significantly delayed antibody levels and B reactivation following the first vaccination, including sustained inhibition of overall reactivation marker dynamics of the responding CD4+ and CD8+ T cells.

Conclusions

Together, these findings indicate that SARS-CoV-2 experienced MS-OCR patients may still benefit from vaccination by inducing a broad CD8+ T cell response which has been associated with milder disease outcome. The delayed vaccine-induced IgG kinetics in RA-MTX patients indicate an increased risk after the first vaccination, which might require additional shielding or alternative strategies such as treatment interruptions in vulnerable patients.

Funding

This research project was supported by ZonMw (The Netherlands Organization for Health Research and Development, #10430072010007), the European Union's Horizon 2020 research and innovation program under the Marie Skłodowska-Curie grant agreement (#792532 and #860003), the European Commission (SUPPORT-E, #101015756) and by PPOC (#20_21 L2506), the NHMRC Leadership Investigator Grant (#1173871).

Longitudinal T-Cell Responses After a Third SARS-CoV-2 Vaccination in Patients With Multiple Sclerosis on Ocrelizumab or Fingolimod

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate whether a third vaccination shows an added effect on severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) T-cell responses in patients with multiple sclerosis treated with ocrelizumab or fingolimod.

METHODS

This is a substudy of a prospective multicenter study on SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in patients with immune-mediated diseases. Patients with MS treated with ocrelizumab, fingolimod, and no disease-modifying therapies and healthy controls were included. The number of interferon (IFN)-γ secreting SARS-CoV-2-specific T cells at multiple time points before and after 3 SARS-CoV-2 vaccinations were evaluated.

RESULTS

In ocrelizumab-treated patients (N = 24), IFN-γ-producing SARS-CoV-2-specific T-cell responses were induced after 2 vaccinations with median levels comparable to healthy controls (N = 12) and patients with MS without disease-modifying therapies (N = 10). A third vaccination in ocrelizumab-treated patients (N = 8) boosted T-cell responses that had declined after the second vaccination, but did not lead to higher overall T-cell responses as compared to immediately after a second vaccination. In fingolimod-treated patients, no SARS-CoV-2-specific T cells were detected after second (N = 12) and third (N = 9) vaccinations.

DISCUSSION

In ocrelizumab-treated patients with MS, a third SARS-CoV-2 vaccination had no additive effect on the maximal T-cell response but did induce a boost response. In fingolimod-treated patients, no T-cell responses could be detected following both a second and third SARS-CoV-2 vaccination.

OP0178 COVID-19 BREAKTHROUGH INFECTIONS IN VACCINATED PATIENTS WITH IMMUNE-MEDIATED INFLAMMATORY DISEASES AND CONTROLS – DATA FROM TWO PROSPECTIVE COHORT STUDIES

Background

Concerns have been raised regarding risks of COVID-19 breakthrough infections in vaccinated patients with immune-mediated inflammatory diseases (IMIDs) treated with immunosuppressants, but data on COVID-19 breakthrough infections in these patients are still scarce.

Objectives

The primary objective was to compare the incidence and severity of COVID-19 breakthrough infections with the SARS-CoV-2 delta variant between fully vaccinated IMID patients with immunosuppressants, and controls (IMID patients without immunosuppressants and healthy controls). The secondary objective was to explore determinants of breakthrough infections.

Methods

In this study we pooled data collected from two large ongoing prospective multi-center cohort studies (Target to-B! [T2B!] study and ARC study). Clinical data were collected between February and December 2021, using digital questionnaires, standardized electronic case record forms and medical files. Post-vaccination serum samples were analyzed for anti-RBD antibodies (T2B! study only) and anti-nucleocapsid antibodies to identify asymptomatic breakthrough infections (ARC study only). Logistic regression analyses were used to assess associations with the incidence of breakthrough infections. Multivariable models were adjusted for age, sex, cardiovascular disease, chronic pulmonary disease, obesity and vaccine type.

Results

We included 3207 IMID patients with immunosuppressants and 1810 controls (985 IMID patients without immunosuppressants and 825 healthy controls). The incidence of COVID-19 breakthrough infections was comparable between patients with immunosuppressants (5%) and controls (5%). The absence of SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibodies after COVID-19 vaccination was independently associated with an increased incidence of breakthrough infections (P 0.044). The proportion of asymptomatic COVID-19 breakthrough cases that were additionally identified serologically in the ARC cohort was comparable between IMID patients with immunosuppressants and controls; 66 (10%) of 695 patients vs. 64 (10%) of 647 controls. Hospitalization was required in 8 (5%) of 149 IMID patients with immunosuppressants and 5 (6%) of 86 controls with a COVID-19 breakthrough infection. Hospitalized cases were generally older, and had more comorbidities compared with non-hospitalized cases (Table 1). Hospitalization rates were significantly higher among IMID patients treated with anti-CD20 therapy compared to IMID patients using any other immunosuppressant (3 [23%] of 13 patients vs. 5 [4%] of 128 patients, P 0.041; Table 1).

Table 1.

Determinants of the severity of COVID-19 breakthrough infections.

Ambulatory care (n = 222)Hospitalized (n = 13)Group - no. (%)IMID patients with immunosuppressants141(64)8(62)IMID patients without immunosuppressants49(22)3(23)Healthy controls32(14)2(15)Patient characteristicsAge, years – mean (SD)51(14)60(11)Female sex – no. (%)143(64)4(31)Comorbidities – no. (%)Cardiovascular disease17(8)5(39)Chronic pulmonary disease17(8)4(31)Diabetes15(7)3(23)Obesity34(15)5(39)Immunosuppressants– no. (%)Methotrexate36(16)2(15)TNF inhibitor48(22)2(15)Anti-CD20 therapy13(6)3(23)Mycophenolate mofetil3(1)0(0)S1P modulator5(2)0(0)Other immunosuppressants70(32)3(23)

Conclusion

The incidence of COVID-19 breakthrough infections in IMID patients with immunosuppressants was comparable to controls, and infections were mostly mild. Anti-CD20 therapy might increase patients’ susceptibility to severe COVID-19 breakthrough infections, but traditional risk factors also continue to have a critical contribution to the disease course of COVID-19. Therefore, we argue that most patients with IMIDs should not necessarily be seen as a risk group for severe COVID-19, and that integrating other risk factors should become standard practice when discussing treatment options, COVID-19 vaccination, and adherence to infection prevention measures with patients.

Disclosure of Interests

None declared

POS1256 RISK FACTORS FOR SHORT-TERM ADVERSE EVENT IN PATIENTS WITH IMMUNE-MEDIATED INFLAMMATORY DISEASES

Background

Many countries are promoting booster SARS-CoV-2 vaccination campaigns as the COVID-19 pandemic continues. Incremental short-term adverse events after two SARS-CoV-2 vaccinations have been reported in healthy individuals.1,2 However, data on incremental short-term adverse events in patients with various immune-mediated inflammatory diseases (IMIDs) after repeated SARS-CoV-2 vaccination is scarce.

Objectives

We report risk factors for short-term adverse events in IMID patients after SARS-CoV-2 vaccination.

Methods

Self-reported daily questionnaires on adverse events in the first seven days after SARS-CoV-2 vaccination were obtained from individuals participating in an ongoing prospective multi-arm multicenter cohort study on SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in patients with various IMIDs in the Netherlands (T2B! immunity after SARS-CoV-2). Clinically relevant adverse events were defined as systemic adverse advents lasting longer than two days or hindering daily activities. Adjusted relative risks for developing clinically relevant adverse events were calculated using a logistic mixed-effects model.

Results

Data of 2081 patients and 178 healthy controls were obtained. Inflammatory bowel disease (N:480), Multiple sclerosis (N:343) and Rheumatoid arthritis (N:266) were the largest disease groups. Adjusted relative risks for relevant adverse events are presented in Figure 1. Third vaccination was not associated with increased risk on adverse events when compared to a second vaccination (aRR: 0.93 95% CI: 0.84-1.02). Patients with IMIDs were at increased risk for developing adverse events after vaccination when compared to controls (aRR: 1.16 95% CI: 1.01-1.34). Female sex (aRR 1.43 95% CI: 1.32-1.56), age below 50 (aRR 1.14 95% CI: 1.06-1.23) and a preceding SARS-CoV-2 infection (aRR: 1.14 95% CI: 1.01-1.29) were also associated with increased risk of adverse events following vaccination. Allergic reactions and hospital admission were uncommon (0.67% and 0.19% respectively); 7.4% and 6.8% of patients reported adverse events impacting daily life on day seven after second and third vaccination, respectively. Data on increase in disease activity of the IMID following vaccination are currently being investigated.

Figure 1.

Risk factors for adverse events after SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in patients with immune-mediated inflammatory disease

Conclusion

A third SARS-CoV-2 vaccination was not associated with an increased risk on short-term clinically relevant adverse events when compared to a second vaccination. Although patients with IMIDs may be slightly more at risk to develop adverse events after SARS-CoV-2 vaccination, most adverse events were transient and disappeared within seven days. This message should reassure IMID patients who are hesitant on booster vaccination. Data on potential IMID flare-ups after vaccination will follow.

References

[1]Polack FP, Thomas SJ, Kitchin N, et al. Safety and efficacy of the BNT162b2 mRNA Covid-19 vaccine. N Engl J Med. 2020;383(27):2603-2615. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa2034577

[2]Baden LR, El Sahly HM, Essink B, et al. Efficacy and safety of the mRNA-1273 SARS-CoV-2 vaccine. N Engl J Med. 2021;384(5):403-416. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa2035389

Acknowledgements

We would like to thank ZonMw (The Netherlands Organization for Health Research and Development, grant 10430072010007) for the funding of the study and the T2B partners, including the patient groups and Health Holland for the support in this study. Also, we would like to thank E.P. Moll van Charante, J.A Bogaards and R.A. Scholten for their guidance in the data safety monitoring board.

Disclosure of Interests

Laura Kummer: None declared, Luuk Wieske: None declared, Eileen Stalman: None declared, Koos van Dam: None declared, Laura Boekel: None declared, Gertjan Wolbink Grant/research support from: GW reported a grant from ZonMW (Netherlands Organization for Healthcare research and Innovation) for COVID research in patients with auto-immune diseases., Adriaan Volkers: None declared, Maurice Steenhuis: None declared, Niels Verstegen: None declared, Theo Rispens: None declared, Anja ten Brinke: None declared, Zoé van Kempen: None declared, Sander Tas: None declared, Marieke van Ham: None declared, Taco Kuijpers Grant/research support from: TW reported a grant from ZonMW (Netherlands Organization for Healthcare research and Innovation) for COVID research in patients with auto-immune diseases., Filip Eftimov Grant/research support from: FE reported a grant from ZonMW (Netherlands Organization for Healthcare research and Innovation) for COVID research in patients with auto-immune diseases.

POS1520-HPR RHEUMATOLOGY PATIENTS TREATED WITH A bDMARD PERSPECTIVE TOWARDS THERAPEUTIC DRUG MONITORING

Background

Therapeutic Drug Monitoring (TDM) is a tool to determine the optimal dose of a drug for individual patients using measurement of blood concentrations and, optionally, anti-drug antibodies (ADA). In the field of rheumatology interest in applying TDM is increasing. A recent study by Syversen et al., the NOR-DRUM B trail, supports TDM as a treatment strategy. This study showed that treatment with proactive TDM was more effective then treatment without TDM. Applying TDM creates a more personalized treatment for individual patients, therefore it is relevant to understand the patients perspective towards TDM.

Objectives

To study the perspective of rheumatology patients treated with a bDMARD in a personalized fashion using TDM.

Methods

Adult rheumatology patients from the Amsterdam Rheumatology and immunology Center who participate in the COVID-19 prospective cohort study (Nederlands Trial Register, trial ID NL8513) received a digital questionnaire which comprised, in addition to demographic items, of three TDM topics: familiarity, attitude and risk assessment.

Results

Participants were selected based on the following criteria: treatment with a bDMARD and a fully completed questionnaire (n=888). Table 1 shows characteristics of study population.

Table 1.

Characteristics of study population

Total N= 888Age, yr Mean (SD)55(13)Gender, female - N (%)575(65)Diagnosis* - N (%)RA511(58)PSA172(19)AS203(23)Axial and peripheral SpA21(3)Other17(2)bDMARD** - N (%)Adalimumab242(27)Etanercept352(40)Other297(33)

* Some patients reported more than one diagnosis

** Three patients reported more than one bDMARD

Sixty-six percent (n=582) of the participants had never heard of the concept ‘personalized dosing, using TDM’. After explaining the concept 60% (n=535) of the participants answered they have a positive attitude towards the concept (Figure 1). Participants with a positive attitude received a follow-up question. They were asked which of the following related aspects: individual dosing, costs, safety and other, they thought was most relevant regarding the concept. Multiple answers were possible. Ninety-four percent (n=502) reported as the main reason for having a positive attitude, that the treatment can be personally adjusted. The second and third reasons, respectively, were safety 43% (n=230) and costs 27% (n=142) of the treatment.

Figure 1.

Attitude towards concept of TDM against being familiar with concept of TDM

Five percent (n=43) of the participants had a negative attitude towards the concept. Main reasons were; previous experience with unsuccessful dose reduction and unwillingness to change current treatment due to the fact that several previous treatments were ineffective.

Participants were also asked what amount of risk they are willing to take when presented with five different situations; worsening rheumatologically symptoms: e.g. pain and swelling, increased fatigability, necessary treatment with prednisone, switching to another bDMARD or more frequent visits to rheumatologist. Majority of the patients reported for each of the five situations, respectively: 37% (n=330), 40% (n=359), 51% (n=453), 48% (n= 426) and 29% (n=262) that they would only be willing to take a negligible risk, < 0.1%.

Conclusion

Majority of participants was not familiar with the concept of personalized dosing using TDM. However, the majority had a positive attitude towards the concept. The main reason for a positive attitude is that the treatment can be personally adjusted. On the other hand, patients who are currently being treated with a bDMARD were only willing to take a negligible risk when it comes to their own treatment.

References

[1]Syversen, S. W., Jorgensen, K. K., Goll, G. L., Brun, M. K., Sandanger, O., Bjorlykke, K. H., Haavardsholm, E. A. (2021). Effect of Therapeutic Drug Monitoring vs Standard Therapy During Maintenance Infliximab Therapy on Disease Control in Patients With Immune-Mediated Inflammatory Diseases: A Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA, 326(23), 2375-2384. doi:10.1001/jama.2021.21316

Disclosure of Interests

Maureen Leeuw: None declared, Sadaf Atiqi: None declared, Fenna de Vries: None declared, Laura Boekel: None declared, Femke Hooijberg: None declared, Michael Nurmohamed Speakers bureau: Abbvie, Jansen, Celgene, Consultant of: Abbvie, Grant/research support from: Abbvie, Amgen, Pfizer, Galapagos, BMS, Gert-Jan Wolbink: None declared, Charlotte Krieckaert: None declared

POS0589 CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE RISK IN INFLAMMATORY ARTHRITIS STILL ELEVATED IN 2021!

Background

Patients with inflammatory rheumatic diseases as rheumatoid arthritis (RA), psoriatic arthritis (PsA) and spondyloarthritis (SpA) are at higher risk for developing cardiovascular diseases (CVD) than the general population. This is due to a higher prevalence of ‘traditional’ CV risk factors as hypertension and dyslipidemia, and the underlying systemic inflammation. During the past two decades, the burden of inflammation has been reduced by more efficacious anti-rheumatic treatment, leading to a reduced CVD risk, albeit still elevated in comparison to the general population. Therefore, it remains important to monitor the presence of CVD in rheumatic patients in systematically controlled cohorts.

Objectives

To evaluate whether, nowadays, the CVD risk of patients with inflammatory rheumatic diseases still differs from the general population.

Methods

In March 2020, all adult patients with an inflammatory rheumatic disease from the Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Center, location “Reade” were systematically asked to participate in a prospective cohort study, which focused on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The patients were compared with age and sex matched controls. In the third questionnaire, sent out in January 2021, questions regarding CV risk factors and comorbidities were added. Baseline characteristics and prevalence of CV risk factors and CVD were compared between RA, PsA or SpA patients, and healthy controls.

Results

2050 consecutive patients with an inflammatory rheumatic disease (1312 RA patients, 353 PsA patients, 385 SpA patients), and 939 healthy controls completed the questionnaires (Table 1). The prevalence of at least one CV comorbidity was more frequently reported in RA, PsA and SpA patients compared to healthy controls: 69 (5%), 24 (7%), 17 (4%) compared to 31 (3%), respectively. Events were primarily cardiac (i.e. myocardial infarction and coronary angioplasty). Inflammatory arthritis patients more often had hypertension or hypercholesterolemia than healthy controls, which were untreated in nearly half the cases. RA patients most often used anticoagulant medication.

Table 1.

Baseline characteristics. Values are displayed as mean ± standard deviation (SD) or frequencies with percentages (%). RA = rheumatoid arthritis, PsA = psoriatic arthritis, SpA = spondyloarthritis, CV = cardiovascular, DMARD = disease modifying anti-rheumatic drug

Patient characteristicsAll patients (n = 2050)RA(n = 1312)PsA(n = 353)SpA(n = 385)Control(n = 939)Mean age – yr57 ± 1360 ± 1257 ± 1251 ± 1355 ± 13Female sex - no (%)1266 (63)923 (70)164 (47)179 (47)636 (69)CV risk factors - no (%)Hypertension746 (37)482 (38)134 (39)130 (34)213 (23) Antihypertensive med411 (20)271 (21)78 (22)62 (16)131 (14)Hypercholesterolemia594 (30)391 (31)102 (30)101 (27)197 (21) Statins335 (16)223 (17)59 (17)53 (14)98 (10)Anticoagulants246 (12)180 (14)34 (10)32 (8)74 (8)CV diseases - no (%)Overall110 (5)69 (5)24 (7)17 (4)31 (3)Cardiac91 (4)60 (5)17 (5)14 (4)26 (3)Cerebral27 (1)12 (1)9 (3)6 (2)4 (0)Peripheral14 (1)10 (1)3 (1)1 (0)3 (0)Anti-rheumatic drugs - no (%)Prednisone202 (10)175 (13)17 (5)10 (3)n/aConventional synthetic DMARD1118 (55)902 (69)184 (52)32 (8)n/aBiological DMARD895 (44)512 (39)166 (47)217 (56)n/aTargeted synthetic DMARD20 (1)11 (1)5 (1)4 (1)n/a

Conclusion

The prevalence of CVD was approximately 1.5 times higher in patients with inflammatory rheumatic diseases compared to healthy controls (5% vs 3%), similar to older investigations. The prevalence of CV risk factors also remained elevated, and often undertreated. This indicates that the CVD risk in arthritis patients is still elevated in 2021 compared to the general population, despite improved anti-rheumatic treatment. Therefore, adequate and timely treatment of CV risk factors and optimization of anti-rheumatic drug treatment remains important in all inflammatory arthritis patients.

References

[1]Hooijberg F et al. (2020) Patients with rheumatic diseases adhere to COVID-19 isolation measures more strictly than the general population. The Lancet Rheumatology 2, 582-585.

Disclosure of Interests

None declared.

Breakthrough SARS-CoV-2 infections with the delta (B.1.617.2) variant in vaccinated patients with immune-mediated inflammatory diseases using immunosuppressants: a substudy of two prospective cohort studies

Background

Concerns have been raised regarding the risks of SARS-CoV-2 breakthrough infections in vaccinated patients with immune-mediated inflammatory diseases treated with immunosuppressants, but clinical data on breakthrough infections are still scarce. The primary objective of this study was to compare the incidence and severity of SARS-CoV-2 breakthrough infections between patients with immune-mediated inflammatory diseases using immunosuppressants, and controls (patients with immune-mediated inflammatory diseases not taking immunosuppressants and healthy controls) who had received full COVID-19 vaccinations. The secondary objective was to explore determinants of breakthrough infections of the delta (B.1.617.2) variant of SARS-CoV-2, including humoral immune responses after vaccination.

Methods

In this substudy, we pooled data collected in two large ongoing prospective multicentre cohort studies conducted in the Netherlands (Target to-B! [T2B!] study and Amsterdam Rheumatology Center COVID [ARC-COVID] study). Both studies recruited adult patients (age ≥18 years) with immune-mediated inflammatory diseases and healthy controls. We sourced clinical data from standardised electronic case record forms, digital questionnaires, and medical files. We only included individuals who were vaccinated against SARS-CoV-2. For T2B!, participants were recruited between Feb 2 and Aug 1, 2021, and for ARC-COVID, participants were recruited between April 26, 2020, and March 1, 2021. In this study we assessed data on breakthrough infections collected between July 1 and Dec 15, 2021, a period in which the delta SARS-CoV-2 variant was the dominant variant in the Netherlands. We defined a SARS-CoV-2 breakthrough infection as a PCR-confirmed or antigen test-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection that occurred at least 14 days after vaccination. All breakthrough infections during this period were assumed to be due to the delta variant due to its dominance during the study period. We analysed post-vaccination serum samples for anti-receptor binding domain (RBD) antibodies to assess the humoral vaccination response (T2B! study only) and anti-nucleocapsid antibodies to identify asymptomatic breakthrough infections (ARC-COVID study only). We used multivariable logistic regression analyses to explore potential clinical and humoral determinants associated with the odds of breakthrough infections. The T2B! study is registered with the Dutch Trial Register, Trial ID NL8900, and the ARC-COVID study is registered with Dutch Trial Register, trial ID NL8513.

Findings

We included 3207 patients with immune-mediated inflammatory diseases who receive immunosuppressants, and 1807 controls (985 patients with immune-mediated inflammatory disease not on immunosuppressants and 822 healthy controls). Among patients receiving immunosuppressants, mean age was 53 years (SD 14), 2042 (64%) of 3207 were female and 1165 (36%) were male; among patients not receiving immunosuppressants, mean age was 54 years (SD 14), 598 (61%) of 985 were female and 387 (39%) were male; and among healthy controls, mean age was 57 years (SD 13), 549 (67%) of 822 were female and 273 (33%) were male. The cumulative incidence of PCR-test or antigen-test confirmed SARS-CoV-2 breakthrough infections was similar in patients on immunosuppressants (148 of 3207; 4·6% [95% CI 3·9–5·4]), patients not on immunosuppressants (52 of 985; 5·3% [95% CI 4·0–6·9]), and healthy controls (33 of 822; 4·0% [95% CI 2·8–5·6]). There was no difference in the odds of breakthrough infection for patients with immune-mediate inflammatory disease on immunosuppressants versus combined controls (ie, patients not on immunosuppressants and healthy controls; adjusted odds ratio 0·88 [95% CI 0·66–1·18]). Seroconversion after vaccination (odds ratio 0·58 [95% CI 0·34–0·98]; T2B! cohort only) and SARS-CoV-2 infection before vaccination (0·34 [0·18–0·56]) were associated with a lower odds of breakthrough infections.

Interpretation

The incidence and severity of SARS-CoV-2 breakthrough infections in patients with immune-mediated inflammatory diseases on immunosuppressants was similar to that in controls. However, caution might still be warranted for those on anti-CD20 therapy and those with traditional risk factors.

Funding

ZonMw (the Netherlands Organization for Health Research and Development) and Reade foundation.

POS0659 LONG-TERM DYNAMICS OF ANTIBODY RESPONSE TO ADALIMUMAB DETECTED WITH A DRUG TOLERANT ASSAY

Background

Immunogenicity of adalimumab (ADL) has been the subject of extensive research, with the primary focus on its incidence, antibody titers and effects on clinical outcome. However, the temporal evolution of antibodies, i.e. dynamic and variation in titers, time point of emergent and persistence or transience of the response, remains under elucidated. To investigate this further, it is essential to collect samples at regular intervals and over a longer period of time. Also, a drug tolerant assay should be used to conquer with the phenomenon of drug interference (1).

Objectives

To evaluate the temporal evolution and to distinguish dynamic patterns of antibody response. Secondly, to assess the clinical impact and factors influencing these dynamic patterns.

Methods

ADA and adalimumab concentration were measured in sera of 511 consecutive ADL treated rheumatoid arthritis patients. Serum samples were drawn at week 0, 4, 16, 28, 52, 78 and 104. ADA were measured with a drug tolerant assay (Acid dissociation RadioImmunoAssay). Logistic regression analysis was carried out. Benjamini-Hochberg was used to correct for multiple testing.

Results

Baseline characteristics are depicted in Table 1. Fifty-nine percent of patients (n=300) developed ADA. Based on visual observations patients were clustered in 9 groups, taking the next features in to account (Figure 1); the presence or absence of ADA, the height of ADA titers (higher or lower than 100AU/mL), emergent (early vs. late; cutoff week 28) and its persistence. Based on these features 397 (77%) patients were assigned to one of the groups. Due to missing data at crucial time points the remainder of patients were excluded. In the ‘High early’ and High early LTF’ group was the rate of MTX use (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 0.033 [95%CI 0.01-0.09] P<0.0001 respectively 0.79 [95%CI 0.03-0.22] P <0.0001), adalimumab concentration above 5mg/L (AOR 0.022[95%CI 0.01-0.08] P<0.001 respectively 0.026 [95%CI 0.01-0.09] P<0.001) and low disease activity (DAS28 <3.2) at week 52 (AOR 0.191[95%CI 0.07-0.56] P<0.002 respectively 0.102 [95%CI 0.03-0.31] P<0.001) significantly lower, compared to the negative group. Furthermore, the failure rate was in both groups significantly higher (AOR 9.19 [95%CI 3.7-22.87] P<0.0001 respectively 23.94 [95%CI 8.13-70.53] P<0.0001). In contrast to forgoing studies, our data does not show any differences in clinical outcomes between groups with persistent and transient ADA response.

Table 1.

Baseline characteristics

Totaal N=511Follow-upMedian weeks (IQR)78 (28-104)DemographicsAge mean SD53,7; ± 12,5Female No (%)409 (79.8)Disease statusDisease duration years median (IQR)6,7 (3-13)IgM rheumatoid factor + (%)327 (68.2)Anti-citrullinated protein antibody + (%)315 (73.2)Erosive (%)296 (61.6)DAS28-score mean SD4.5 ± 1.5MedicationMethotrexate use no (%)378 (73)

Conclusion

The majority of patients have an immune response to ADL. Based on ADA concentration, time point of emergence and its persistence, certain patterns of ADA response can be distinguished. Only high ADA concentration at early time points, causing low ADL concentration, are associated with unfavorable clinical effects. All the remaining distinctive patterns does not have any association with clinical outcomes. This suggests a regulated immune response in the majority of patients.

References

[1]Atiqi S, Hooijberg F, Loeff FC, Rispens T, Wolbink GJ. Immunogenicity of TNF-Inhibitors. Front Immunol. 2020 Feb 26;11:312. doi:10.3389/fimmu.2020.00312. PMID: 32174918; PMCID: PMC7055461

Disclosure of Interests

Sadaf Atiqi: None declared, Maureen Leeuw: None declared, Femke Hooijberg: None declared, Laura Boekel: None declared, Floris Loeff: None declared, Karien Bloem: None declared, Charlotte Krieckaert: None declared, Annick de Vries: None declared, Michael Nurmohamed Speakers bureau: AbbVie, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Eli Lilly, Roche, and Sanofi, Grant/research support from: AbbVie, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Celgene, Eli Lilly, Janssen, MSD, Mundipharma, Novartis, Pfizer, Roche, and Sanof, Theo Rispens Speakers bureau: AbbVie, Pfizer, and Regeneron, Grant/research support from: Genmab, Gert-Jan Wolbink Speakers bureau: UCB, Pfizer, AbbVie, Biogen and BMS, Grant/research support from: Pfeizer (paid to institution)

Humoral responses after second and third SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in patients with immune-mediated inflammatory disorders on immunosuppressants: a cohort study

Background

Disease-specific studies have reported impaired humoral responses after SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in patients with immune-mediated inflammatory disorders treated with specific immunosuppressants. Disease-overarching studies, and data on recall responses and third vaccinations are scarce. Our primary objective was to investigate the effects of immunosuppressive monotherapies on the humoral immune response after SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in patients with prevalent immune-mediated inflammatory disorders.

Methods

We did a cohort study in participants treated in outpatient clinics in seven university hospitals and one rheumatology treatment centre in the Netherlands as well as participants included in two national cohort studies on COVID-19-related disease severity. We included patients aged older than 18 years, diagnosed with any of the prespecified immune-mediated inflammatory disorders, who were able to understand and complete questionnaires in Dutch. Participants with immune-mediated inflammatory disorders who were not on systemic immunosuppressants and healthy participants were included as controls. Anti-receptor binding domain IgG responses and neutralisation capacity were monitored following standard vaccination regimens and a three-vaccination regimen in subgroups. Hybrid immune responses—ie, vaccination after previous SARS-CoV-2 infection—were studied as a proxy for recall responses.

Findings

Between Feb 2 and Aug 1, 2021, we included 3222 participants in our cohort. Sera from 2339 participants, 1869 without and 470 participants with previous SARS-CoV-2 infection were analysed (mean age 49·9 years [SD 13·7]; 1470 [62·8%] females and 869 [37·2%] males). Humoral responses did not differ between disorders. Anti-CD20 therapy, sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor (S1P) modulators, and mycophenolate mofetil combined with corticosteroids were associated with lower relative risks for reaching seroconversion following standard vaccination (0·32 [95% CI 0·19–0·49] for anti-CD20 therapy, 0·35 [0·21–0·55] for S1P modulators, and 0·61 [0·40–0·90] for mycophenolate mofetil combined with corticosteroids). A third vaccination increased seroconversion for mycophenolate mofetil combination treatments (from 52·6% after the second vaccination to 89·5% after the third) but not significantly for anti-CD20 therapies (from 36·8% to 45·6%) and S1P modulators (from 35·5% to 48·4%). Most other immunosuppressant groups showed moderately reduced antibody titres after standard vaccination that did not increase after a third vaccination, although seroconversion rates and neutralisation capacity were unaffected. In participants with previous SARS-CoV-2 infection, SARS-CoV-2 antibodies were boosted after vaccination, regardless of immunosuppressive treatment.

Interpretation

Humoral responses following vaccination are impaired by specific immunosuppressants. After standard vaccination regimens, patients with immune-mediated inflammatory disorders taking most immunosuppressants show similar seroconversion to controls, although antibody titres might be moderately reduced. As neutralisation capacity and recall responses are also preserved in these patients, this is not likely to translate to loss of (short-term) protection. In patients on immunosuppressants showing poor humoral responses after standard vaccination regimens, a third vaccination resulted in additional seroconversion in patients taking mycophenolate mofetil combination treatments, whereas the effect of a third vaccination in patients on anti-CD20 therapy and S1P modulators was limited.

Funding

ZonMw (The Netherlands Organization for Health Research and Development).

Antibody development and disease severity of COVID-19 in non-immunised patients with rheumatic immune-mediated inflammatory diseases: data from a prospective cohort study

Background

Research on the disease severity of COVID-19 in patients with rheumatic immune-mediated inflammatory diseases (IMIDs) has been inconclusive, and long-term prospective data on the development of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in these patients are lacking.

Methods

Adult patients with rheumatic IMIDs from the Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Center, Amsterdam were invited to participate. All patients were asked to recruit their own sex-matched and age-matched control subject. Clinical data were collected via online questionnaires (at baseline, and after 1–4 and 5–9 months of follow-up). Serum samples were collected twice and analysed for the presence of SARS-CoV-2-specific antibodies. Subsequently, IgG titres were quantified in samples with a positive test result.

Findings

In total, 3080 consecutive patients and 1102 controls with comparable age and sex distribution were included for analyses. Patients were more frequently hospitalised compared with controls when infected with SARS-CoV-2; 7% vs 0.7% (adjusted OR: 7.33, 95% CI: 0.96 to 55.77). Only treatment with B-cell targeting therapy was independently associated with an increased risk of COVID-19-related hospitalisation (adjusted OR: 14.62, 95% CI: 2.31 to 92.39). IgG antibody titres were higher in hospitalised compared with non-hospitalised patients, and slowly declined with time in similar patterns for patients in all treatment subgroups and controls.

Interpretation

We observed that patients with rheumatic IMIDs, especially those treated with B-cell targeting therapy, were more likely to be hospitalised when infected with SARS-CoV-2. Treatment with conventional synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and biological DMARDs other than B-cell targeting agents is unlikely to have negative effects on the development of long-lasting humoral immunity against SARS-CoV-2.

Risk factors associated with short-term adverse events after SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in patients with immune-mediated inflammatory diseases

BACKGROUND

Studies have suggested incremental short-term adverse events (AE) after repeated vaccination. In this report, we assessed occurrence and risk factors for short-term AEs following repeated SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in patients with various immune-mediated inflammatory diseases (IMIDs).

METHODS

Self-reported daily questionnaires on AEs during the first 7 days after vaccination were obtained of 2259 individuals (2081 patients and 178 controls) participating in an ongoing prospective multicenter cohort study on SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in patients with various IMIDs in the Netherlands (T2B-COVID). Relative risks were calculated for potential risk factors associated with clinically relevant AE (rAE), defined as AE lasting longer than 2 days or impacting daily life.

RESULTS

In total, 5454 vaccinations were recorded (1737 first, 1992 second and 1478 third vaccinations). Multiple sclerosis, Crohn's disease and rheumatoid arthritis were the largest disease groups. rAEs were reported by 57.3% (95% CI 54.8-59.8) of patients after the first vaccination, 61.5% (95% CI 59.2-63.7) after the second vaccination and 58% (95% CI 55.3-60.6) after the third vaccination. At day 7 after the first, second and third vaccination, respectively, 7.6% (95% CI 6.3-9.1), 7.4% (95% CI 6.2-8.7) and 6.8% (95% CI 5.4-8.3) of patients still reported AEs impacting daily life. Hospital admissions and allergic reactions were uncommon (<0.7%). Female sex (aRR 1.43, 95% CI 1.32-1.56), age below 50 (aRR 1.14, 95% CI 1.06-1.23), a preceding SARS-CoV-2 infection (aRR 1.14, 95% CI 1.01-1.29) and having an IMID (aRR 1.16, 95% CI 1.01-1.34) were associated with increased risk of rAEs following a vaccination. Compared to the second vaccination, the first vaccination was associated with a lower risk of rAEs (aRR 0.92, 95% CI 0.84-0.99) while a third vaccination was not associated with increased risk on rAEs (aRR 0.93, 95% CI 0.84-1.02). BNT162b2 vaccines were associated with lower risk on rAEs compared to CX-024414 (aRR 0.86, 95% CI 0.80-0.93).

CONCLUSIONS

A third SARS-CoV-2 vaccination was not associated with increased risk of rAEs in IMID patients compared to the second vaccination. Patients with an IMID have a modestly increased risk of rAEs after vaccination when compared to controls. Most AEs are resolved within 7 days; hospital admissions and allergic reactions were uncommon.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

NL74974.018.20 , Trial ID: NL8900. Registered on 9 September 2020.

EULAR recommendations for cardiovascular risk management in rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases, including systemic lupus erythematosus and antiphospholipid syndrome

OBJECTIVE

To develop recommendations for cardiovascular risk (CVR) management in gout, vasculitis, systemic sclerosis (SSc), myositis, mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD), Sjögren's syndrome (SS), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and antiphospholipid syndrome (APS).

METHODS

Following European League against Rheumatism (EULAR) standardised procedures, a multidisciplinary task force formulated recommendations for CVR prediction and management based on systematic literature reviews and expert opinion.

RESULTS

Four overarching principles emphasising the need of regular screening and management of modifiable CVR factors and patient education were endorsed. Nineteen recommendations (eleven for gout, vasculitis, SSc, MCTD, myositis, SS; eight for SLE, APS) were developed covering three topics: (1) CVR prediction tools; (2) interventions on traditional CVR factors and (3) interventions on disease-related CVR factors. Several statements relied on expert opinion because high-quality evidence was lacking. Use of generic CVR prediction tools is recommended due to lack of validated rheumatic diseases-specific tools. Diuretics should be avoided in gout and beta-blockers in SSc, and a blood pressure target <130/80 mm Hg should be considered in SLE. Lipid management should follow general population guidelines, and antiplatelet use in SLE, APS and large-vessel vasculitis should follow prior EULAR recommendations. A serum uric acid level <0.36 mmol/L (<6 mg/dL) in gout, and disease activity control and glucocorticoid dose minimisation in SLE and vasculitis, are recommended. Hydroxychloroquine is recommended in SLE because it may also reduce CVR, while no particular immunosuppressive treatment in SLE or urate-lowering therapy in gout has been associated with CVR lowering.

CONCLUSION

These recommendations can guide clinical practice and future research for improving CVR management in rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases.

Longitudinal humoral response after SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in ocrelizumab treated MS patients: To wait and repopulate?

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to measure humoral responses after SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in MS patients treated with ocrelizumab (OCR) compared to MS patients without disease modifying therapies (DMTs) in relation to timing of vaccination and B-cell count.

METHODS

OCR treated patients were divided into an early and a late group (cut-off time 12 weeks between infusion and first vaccination). Patients were vaccinated with mRNA-1273 (Moderna). B-cells were measured at baseline (time of first vaccination) and SARS-CoV-2 antibodies were measured at baseline, day 28, 42, 52 and 70.

RESULTS

87 patients were included (62 OCR patients, 29 patients without DMTs). At day 70, seroconversion occurred in 39.3% of OCR patients compared to 100% of MS patients without DMTs. In OCR patients, seroconversion varied between 26% (early group) to 50% (late group) and between 27% (low B-cells) to 56% (at least 1 detectable B-cell/µL).

CONCLUSIONS

Low B-cell counts prior to vaccination and shorter time between OCR infusion and vaccination may negatively influence humoral response but does not preclude seroconversion. We advise OCR treated patients to get their first vaccination as soon as possible. In case of an additional booster vaccination, timing of vaccination based on B-cell count and time after last infusion may be considered.

Antibody development after COVID-19 vaccination in patients with autoimmune diseases in the Netherlands: a substudy of data from two prospective cohort studies

Background

Data are scarce on immunogenicity of COVID-19 vaccines in patients with autoimmune diseases, who are often treated with immunosuppressive drugs. We aimed to investigate the effect of different immunosuppressive drugs on antibody development after COVID-19 vaccination in patients with autoimmune diseases.

Methods

In this study, we used serum samples collected from patients with autoimmune diseases and healthy controls who were included in two ongoing prospective cohort studies in the Netherlands. Participants were eligible for inclusion in this substudy if they had been vaccinated with any COVID-19 vaccine via the Dutch national vaccine programme, which at the time was prioritising vaccination of older individuals. Samples were collected after the first or second COVID-19 vaccination. No serial samples were collected. Seroconversion rates and IgG antibody titres against the receptor-binding domain of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein were measured. Logistic and linear regression analyses were used to investigate the association between medication use at the time of vaccination and at least until sampling, seroconversion rates, and IgG antibody titres. The studies from which data were collected are registered on the Netherlands Trial Register, Trial ID NL8513, and ClinicalTrials.org, NCT04498286.

Findings

Between April 26, 2020, and March 1, 2021, 3682 patients with rheumatic diseases, 546 patients with multiple sclerosis, and 1147 healthy controls were recruited to participate in the two prospective cohort studies. Samples were collected from patients with autoimmune diseases (n=632) and healthy controls (n=289) after their first (507 patients and 239 controls) or second (125 patients and 50 controls) COVID-19 vaccination. The mean age of both patients and controls was 63 years (SD 11), and 423 (67%) of 632 patients with autoimmune diseases and 195 (67%) of 289 controls were female. Among participants without previous SARS-CoV-2 infection, seroconversion after first vaccination were significantly lower in patients than in controls (210 [49%] of 432 patients vs 154 [73%] of 210 controls; adjusted odds ratio 0·33 [95% CI 0·23–0·48]; p<0·0001), mainly due to lower seroconversion in patients treated with methotrexate or anti-CD20 therapies. After the second vaccination, seroconversion exceeded 80% in all patient treatment subgroups, except among those treated with anti-CD20 therapies (three [43%] of seven patients). We observed no difference in seroconversion and IgG antibody titres between patients with a previous SARS-CoV-2 infection who had received a single vaccine dose (72 [96%] of 75 patients, median IgG titre 127 AU/mL [IQR 27–300]) and patients without a previous SARS-CoV-2 infection who had received two vaccine doses (97 [92%] of 106 patients, median IgG titre 49 AU/mL [17–134]).

Interpretation

Our data suggest that seroconversion after a first COVID-19 vaccination is delayed in older patients on specific immunosuppressive drugs, but that second or repeated exposure to SARS-CoV-2, either via infection or vaccination, improves humoral immunity in patients treated with immunosuppressive drugs. Therefore, delayed second dosing of COVID-19 vaccines should be avoided in patients receiving immunosuppressive drugs. Future studies that include younger patients need to be done to confirm the generalisability of our results.

Funding

ZonMw, Reade Foundation, and MS Center Amsterdam.

Spinning straw into gold: description of a disruptive rheumatology research platform inspired by the COVID-19 pandemic

Clinical research projects often use traditional methods in which data collection and signing informed consent forms rely on patients' visits to the research institutes. However, during challenging times when the medical community is in dire need of information, such as the current COVID-19 pandemic, it becomes more urgent to use digital platforms that can rapidly collect data on large numbers of patients. In the current manuscript, we describe a novel digital rheumatology research platform, consisting of almost 5000 patients with autoimmune diseases and healthy controls, that was set up rapidly during the COVID-19 pandemic, but which is sustainable for the future. Using this platform, uniform patient data can be collected via questionnaires and stored in a single database readily available for analysis. In addition, the platform facilitates two-way communication between patients and researchers, so patients become true research partners. Furthermore, blood collection via a finger prick for routine and specific laboratory measurements has been implemented in this large cohort of patients, which may not only be applicable for research settings but also for clinical care. Finally, we discuss the challenges and potential future applications of our platform, including supplying tailored information to selected patient groups and facilitation of patient recruitment for clinical trials.

POS0524 CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE RISK IN INFLAMMATORY ARTHRITIS PATIENTS STILL SUBSTANTIALLY ELEVATED IN 2020

Background:

Patients with inflammatory rheumatic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA), psoriatic arthritis (PsA) and ankylosing spondylitis (AS) are at a higher risk for developing cardiovascular diseases (CVD) than the general population. This increased risk is partly due to a higher incidence of traditional cardiovascular (CV) risk factors, such as hypertension and dyslipidemia, and partly due to the underlying systemic inflammation. During the past two decades, the burden of the systemic inflammation has been reduced by more efficacious anti-inflammatory treatment, which somewhat attenuated the increased CV risk of rheumatic patients. However, it remains important to monitor the effects of these new treatment strategies on the prevalence of CVD in patients with a rheumatic disease in systematically controlled cohorts.

Objectives:

The aim of the current report was to evaluate whether the CV risk of patients with inflammatory rheumatic diseases still differs from the general population, despite advances In anti-rheumatic treatment strategies.

Methods:

In March 2020, all adult patients with an inflammatory rheumatic disease from the Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Center, location “Reade” were systematically asked to participate in a prospective cohort study. The primary aim of this study was to monitor the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on patients with inflammatory rheumatic diseases compared to age and sex matched healthy controls. Between April 26, 2020 and May 27, 2020, participants completed the first online questionnaire of the study. Amongst others, information on demographic data, including CV comorbidities and risk factors, and medication use was collected. The baseline characteristics and prevalence of CVD were compared between RA, PsA or AS and healthy controls.

Results:

In total, 1455 consecutive patients with an inflammatory rheumatic disease (979 RA patients, 261 PsA patients and 215 AS patients), and 414 healthy controls completed the first questionnaire, as shown in table 1. CV comorbidities were more frequently reported in RA, PsA and AS patients compared to healthy controls; 107 (11%), 28 (11%) and 22 (10%) compared to 30 (7%), respectively.

Table 1.

Biological DMARD usage in RA, PsA and AS patients

Patient characteristicsAll patients (n=1455)RA (n=979)PsA (N=261)AS (n=215)Controls (n=414)Mean age - yr55 ± 1358 ± 1255 ± 1348 ± 1353 ± 13Female sex - no (%)934 (64)728 (74)119 (46)87 (41)298 (72)BMI (IQR)25 (23-28)25 (22-28)26 (24-30)25 (22-28)24 (22-27)Smoking - no (%)178 (12)126 (13)17 (7)35 (16)34 (8)Cardiovascular disease – no (%)157 (11)107 (11)28 (11)22 (10)30 (7)Rheumatic medication - no (%)csDMARDs877 (60)712 (73)148 (57)17 (8)N.A.Oral glucocorticoids161 (11)139 (14)17 (7)5 (2)2 (0.4)TNF inhibitor563 (39)336 (34)121 (46)106 (49)N.A.IL-6 inhibitor19 (1)19 (2)00N.A.IL-17 inhibitor17 (1)2 (0.2)7 (3)8 (4)N.A.

Table 1. Baseline characteristics. Values are displayed as mean ± standard deviation (SD), median with interquartile range (IQR) or frequencies with percentages (%). RA = rheumatoid arthritis, PsA = psoriatic arthritis, AS = ankylosing spondylitis, BMI = body mass index, TNF = anti-tumor necrosis factor, IL = interleukin.

Conclusion:

We demonstrated that the prevalence of CVD is approximately 1.5 times higher in patients with rheumatic diseases compared to healthy controls (11% vs. 7%, respectively). This corresponds with previous research, although the reported prevalence of CVD in PsA and AS patients is even higher compared to prior studies. This suggests that the CVD risk of patients with rheumatic diseases is still elevated in 2020 compared to the general population, despite the improved management of rheumatic disease activity. Therefore, adequate and timely treatment of CV risk factors remains relevant, not only in patients with RA, but in patients other rheumatic diseases as well.

References:

[1]Hooijberg F et al. (2020) Patients with rheumatic diseases adhere to COVID-19 isolation measures more strictly than the general population. The Lancet rheumatology 2(10), 583-585.

Disclosure of Interests:

None declared

FRI0308 ANKYLOSING SPONDYLITIS PATIENTS AT RISK OF DEVELOPING AORTIC VALVE REGURGITATION, NEED FOR MANDATORY ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY?

Background:

The overall mortality rate in ankylosing spondylitis (AS) patients is increased by 60–90% compared with the general population. This higher mortality rate is predominately caused by cardiovascular disease (CVD) comprising an increased prevalence of cardiac diseases such as valvular heart disease, conduction disturbances and cardiomyopathies as well as atherosclerotic diseases such as myocardial infarctions. However, there is a lack of contemporary studies. Therefore, we investigated current prevalences of cardiac disorders in a well characterized cohort of Dutch patients with AS compared to osteoarthritis (OA) controls.

Objectives:

To assess the prevalence of CVD in AS patients in comparison to OA controls in a Dutch population.

Methods:

We performed a cross-sectional study in AS and OA patients between 50-75 years. Subjects were recruited from a large rheumatology outpatient clinic (Reade) in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. Patients underwent echocardiography with 2D, spectral and Color Doppler imaging. The echocardiogram was evaluated by an experienced and certified cardiologist. Diastolic dysfunction was assessed according to the ASE/EACVI 2016 guideline. Furthermore, blood sample, surveys and physical examination were done. Disease activity and function were measured with the BASFI, BASDAI and the ASDAS-CRP.

Results:

A total of 193 consecutive AS patients were included with a median age of 60 (±7) years of which 72% men (138). The control group consisted of 70 OA patients (table 1). In the AS cohort the disease activity measures, BASDAI, ASDAS-CRP and BASFI, indicated moderate disease activity and were, respectively 3.1 (1.6-5.0), 2.1 (±1.0) and 3.5 (1.7-5.7). Anti-TNF was used by 43% of the AS patients. History of cardiovascular disease (CVD), i.e. angina pectoris, myocardial infarction, stroke and/or peripheral ischemia was comparable between the AS and OA cohort, respectively 9% (17) and 10% (7), p=0.81. Antihypertensives were significantly more often used in AS patients, 85 (44%) vs 19 (27%), p=0.02. Prevalences of systolic dysfunction and diastolic dysfunction did not differ significantly in AS and OA patients, respectively 6 (5%) vs 2 (5%), p=0.96 in systolic dysfunction and 7 (3%) vs 2 (3%), p=0.86 in diastolic dysfunction. Prevalence of aortic valve (AV) regurgitation was significantly higher in AS patients compared to OA patients, respectively 41 (22%) and 7 (10%), mostly with mild severity. The prevalence of mitral valve (MV) regurgitation did not differ between the AS and OA patients, respectively 68 (36%) vs 21 (33%), p=0.59. When corrected for age, gender and cardiovascular risk factors in a regression analysis, AS patients still had a substantially increased risk for AV regurgitation, odds ratio (OR) 2.8 95%CI 1.1-7.2, p=0.038.

Table 1.

Patient characteristics

ASOApN19370Men (n, %)138 (72)40 (57)0.028*Age (years)60 ±763 ±70.004*Disease activityBASDAI3.1 (1.6-5.0)-ASDAS-CRP2.1 ±1.0-BASFI3.5 (1.7-5.7)-CVDHistory of CVD* (n, %)17 (9)7 (10)0.81Antihypertensives (n, %)85 (44)19 (27)0.02Aortic valve regurgitation (n, %)41 (22)7 (10)0.04* Trace (n, %)16 (9)6 (9) Mild (n, %)23 (12)6 (9) Moderate (n, %)1 (1)0 Severe (n, %)1 (1)0 Prosthesis (n, %)1(1)0Mitral valve regurgitation (n, %)68 (36)21 (33)0.59Diastolic dysfunction (n, %)7 (3)2 (3)0.86

*Angina pectoris, myocardial infarction, stroke and/or peripheral ischemia

Conclusion:

This study demonstrates an almost tripled risk for developing AV regurgitation in Dutch AS patients. Although mostly mild in this age, due to the progressive nature of AV regurgitation in AS, echocardiographic screening should be considered in elderly AS patients.

Disclosure of Interests:

Milad Baniaamam: None declared, Sjoerd C. Heslinga: None declared, M.L. Handoko: None declared, Laura Boekel: None declared, Thelma C. Konings: None declared, Otto Kamp: None declared, Vokko P. van Halm: None declared, J.C. van Denderen: None declared, Irene van der Horst-Bruinsma Grant/research support from: AbbVie, Novartis, Eli Lilly, Bristol-Myers Squibb, MSD, Pfizer, UCB Pharma, Consultant of: AbbVie, Novartis, Eli Lilly, Bristol-Myers Squibb, MSD, Pfizer, UCB Pharma, Michael Nurmohamed Grant/research support from: Not related to this research, Consultant of: Not related to this research, Speakers bureau: Not related to this research

Multiple Sclerosis Patients Show Lower Bioavailable 25(OH)D and 1,25(OH)2D, but No Difference in Ratio of 25(OH)D/24,25(OH)2D and FGF23 Concentrations

Vitamin D (VitD) insufficiency is common in multiple sclerosis (MS). VitD has possible anti-inflammatory effects on the immune system. The ratio between VitD metabolites in MS patients and the severity of the disease are suggested to be related. However, the exact effect of the bone-derived hormone fibroblast-growth-factor-23 (FGF23) and VitD binding protein (VDBP) on this ratio is not fully elucidated yet. Therefore, the aim is to study differences in total, free, and bioavailable VD metabolites and FGF23 between MS patients and healthy controls (HCs). FGF23, vitD (25(OH)D), active vitD (1,25(OH)₂D), inactive 24,25(OH)D, and VDBP were measured in 91 MS patients and 92 HCs. Bioavailable and free concentrations were calculated. No difference in FGF23 (p = 0.65) and 25(OH)D/24.25(OH)₂D ratio (p = 0.21) between MS patients and HCs was observed. Bioavailable 25(OH)D and bioavailable 1.25(OH)₂D were lower (p < 0.01), while VDBP concentrations were higher in MS patients (p = 0.02) compared with HCs, specifically in male MS patients (p = 0.01). In conclusion, FGF23 and 25(OH)D/24.25(OH)₂D did not differ between MS patients and HCs, yet bioavailable VitD concentrations are of potential clinical relevance in MS patients. The possible immunomodulating role of VDBP and gender-related differences in the VD-FGF23 axis in MS need further study.