Distribution of internal medicine rotations among resident physicians in Japan: a nationwide, multicenter, cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

In Japan, postgraduate clinical training encompasses a 2-year residency program, including at least 24 weeks of internal medicine (IM) rotations. However, the fragmented structure of these rotations can compromise the training's quality and depth. For example, a resident might spend only a few weeks in cardiology before moving to endocrinology, without sufficient time to deepen their understanding or have clinical experience. This study examined current patterns and lengths of IM rotations within the Japanese postgraduate medical system. It scrutinized the piecemeal approach-whereby residents may engage in multiple short-term stints across various subspecialties without an overarching, integrated experience-and explored potential consequences for their clinical education.

METHODS

This nationwide, multicenter, cross-sectional study used data from self-reported questionnaires completed by participants in the 2022 General Medicine In-Training Examination (GM-ITE). Data of 1,393 postgraduate year (PGY) one and two resident physicians who participated in the GM-ITE were included. We examined the IM rotation duration and number of IM subspecialties chosen by resident physicians during a 2-year rotation.

RESULTS

Approximately half of the participants chose IM rotation periods of 32-40 weeks. A significant proportion of participants rotated in 5-7 internal medicine departments throughout the observation period. Notable variations in the distribution of rotations were observed, characterized by a common pattern where resident physicians typically spend 4 weeks in each department before moving to the next. This 4-week rotation is incrementally repeated across different subspecialties without a longer, continuous period in any single area. Notably, 39.7% of participants did not undertake general internal medicine rotations. These results suggest a narrowed exposure to medical conditions and patient care practices.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study highlights the need to address the fragmented structure of IM rotations in Japan. We suggest that short, specialized learning periods may limit the opportunity to gain broad in-depth knowledge and practical experience. To improve the efficacy of postgraduate clinical education, we recommend fostering more sustained and comprehensive learning experiences.

Effect of remission, clinical remission with active serology, and glucocorticoid dosage on the pregnancy outcome of pregnant patients with systemic lupus erythematosus

BACKGROUND

Remission is a key treatment target in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) management. Given the direct correlation between lupus flares and elevated risks of adverse pregnancy outcomes (APOs), securing remission before conception becomes crucial. However, the association between clinical remission with active serology, and the risk of APOs is not thoroughly understood. Additionally, determining the optimal glucocorticoid dosage during pregnancy to mitigate APO risks remains under-researched. This study investigated the risk of APOs in relation to remission/serological activity status in patients in clinical remission/glucocorticoid dosage.

METHODS

Pregnant patients with SLE, who were followed up at two Japanese tertiary referral centers, and had their remission status assessed at conception, were included in this study. We categorized the patients into two groups based on whether they achieved Zen/Doria remission at conception and analyzed the APO ratio. We also examined the influence of serological activity in pregnant patients with clinical remission and analyzed the optimal glucocorticoid dosage to minimize the APO ratio.

RESULTS

Of the 96 pregnancies included, 59 achieved remission at conception. Pregnant patients who achieved remission showed a significant decrease in the APO ratio compared with those who did not. (overall APO: odds ratio (OR) 0.27, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.11-0.65, p < 0.01, maternal APO: OR 0.34, 95%CI 0.13-0.85, p = 0.021, neonatal APO: OR 0.39, 95%CI 0.17-0.90, p = 0.028). Conversely, no statistical difference was observed in the APO ratio based on serological activity in pregnant patients with clinical remission. (overall APO: OR 0.62, 95%CI 0.21-1.79, p = 0.37, maternal APO: OR 1.25, 95%CI 0.32-4.85, p = 0.75, neonatal APO: OR 0.83, 95%CI 0.29-2.39, p = 0.73). A glucocorticoid dose of prednisolone equivalent ≥ 7.5 mg/day at conception correlated with increased APO. (overall APO: OR 3.01, 95%CI 1.23-7.39, p = 0.016, neonatal APO: OR 2.98, 95% CI:1.23-7.22, p = 0.016).

CONCLUSIONS

Even with active serology, achieving clinical remission can be a clinical target for reducing APOs in patients who wish to conceive. In addition, if clinically feasible, reducing the glucocorticoid dosage to < 7.5 mg/day before conception could be another predictive factor.

Clinical and ultrasound features of difficult-to-treat rheumatoid arthritis: A multicenter RA ultrasound cohort study

OBJECTIVE

The optimal strategy for difficult-to-treat (D2T) rheumatoid arthritis (RA) has not been identified, and the ultrasound characteristics of D2T RA have not been reported. We investigated the clinical characteristics and factors contributing to the outcome in D2T RA in a multicentre RA ultrasound observational cohort.

METHOD

We reviewed 307 Japanese patients diagnosed with RA who underwent treatment with biological and targeted synthetic disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (b/tsDMARDs). We compared the differences in patient characteristics between the D2T RA and non-D2T RA groups. We examined the factors contributing to a good response [defined as b/tsDMARD continuation and Clinical Disease Activity Index (CDAI) ≤ 10 at 12 months] in the D2T RA patient group.

RESULTS

Forty-three patients (14%) were categorized as D2T RA and the remaining 264 (86%) as non-D2T RA at baseline. The grey-scale (GS) score, disease duration, and CDAI at the initiation of treatment were significantly higher in the D2T RA group than in the non-D2T RA group. In contrast, the power Doppler (PD) score was not significantly different between the two groups. Of the 43 D2T RA patients, 20 achieved a good response. The introduction of CTLA4-Ig (n = 5) was significantly associated with a good response in analysis based on inverse probability weighting with propensity score. GS and PD scores at baseline were not significantly associated with therapeutic response at 12 months in D2T RA patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with D2T RA had high clinical and ultrasound activity and poor responses to treatment with b/tsDMARDs. CTLA4-Ig was associated with a good response at 12 months in D2T RA patients.

Development of a Clinical Simulation Video to Evaluate Multiple Domains of Clinical Competence: Cross-Sectional Study

BACKGROUND

Medical students in Japan undergo a 2-year postgraduate residency program to acquire clinical knowledge and general medical skills. The General Medicine In-Training Examination (GM-ITE) assesses postgraduate residents' clinical knowledge. A clinical simulation video (CSV) may assess learners' interpersonal abilities.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between GM-ITE scores and resident physicians' diagnostic skills by having them watch a CSV and to explore resident physicians' perceptions of the CSV's realism, educational value, and impact on their motivation to learn.

METHODS

The participants included 56 postgraduate medical residents who took the GM-ITE between January 21 and January 28, 2021; watched the CSV; and then provided a diagnosis. The CSV and GM-ITE scores were compared, and the validity of the simulations was examined using discrimination indices, wherein ≥0.20 indicated high discriminatory power and >0.40 indicated a very good measure of the subject's qualifications. Additionally, we administered an anonymous questionnaire to ascertain participants' views on the realism and educational value of the CSV and its impact on their motivation to learn.

RESULTS

Of the 56 participants, 6 (11%) provided the correct diagnosis, and all were from the second postgraduate year. All domains indicated high discriminatory power. The (anonymous) follow-up responses indicated that the CSV format was more suitable than the conventional GM-ITE for assessing clinical competence. The anonymous survey revealed that 12 (52%) participants found the CSV format more suitable than the GM-ITE for assessing clinical competence, 18 (78%) affirmed the realism of the video simulation, and 17 (74%) indicated that the experience increased their motivation to learn.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings indicated that CSV modules simulating real-world clinical examinations were successful in assessing examinees' clinical competence across multiple domains. The study demonstrated that the CSV not only augmented the assessment of diagnostic skills but also positively impacted learners' motivation, suggesting a multifaceted role for simulation in medical education.

Changes in alcohol intake and serum urate changes: longitudinal analyses of annual medical examination database

INTRODUCTION

Despite the established cross-sectional association between alcohol intake and serum urate (SU), its longitudinal association remains unknown. This study aimed to determine whether changes in alcohol intake have a clinically relevant association with SU change.

METHOD

We conducted retrospective analyses using systematically collected annual medical examination data from October 2012 to October 2022 in a Japanese preventive medicine centre. The exposure was changes in alcohol intake between two consecutive visits. The association of SU changes with alcohol intake changes was estimated by mixed-effect linear regression with adjustment for relevant covariates.

RESULTS

We analysed 63 486 participants (median age, 47.0 years; 55% women; 58.6% regular alcohol drinkers with a median of 1.4 drinks/day) with 370 572 visits. The median SU level was 5.3 mg/dL, and 506 (0.8%) participants had diagnoses of gout or hyperuricemia without medication use during the study period. Decreasing one daily alcohol intake had a clinically small association with SU changes (-0.019 (95% CI: -0.021 to -0.017) mg/dL). Beer had the largest association with SU (-0.036 (95% CI: -0.039 to -0.032) mg/dL for one beer decrease). Complete discontinuation of any alcohol from a mean of 0.8 drinks/day was associated with -0.056 mg/dL (95% CI: -0.068 to -0.043) decrease in SU; the association became larger in hyperuricemic participants (-0.110 mg/dL (95% CI: -0.154 to -0.066) for alcohol discontinuation from a mean of 1.0 drinks/day).

CONCLUSIONS

This study revealed changes in alcohol intake had small associations with SU change at the general Japanese population level. Complete discontinuation of alcohol in hyperuricemic participants had only modest improvement in SU.

Upadacitinib for the treatment of adults with active non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis (nr-axSpA)

INTRODUCTION

Non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis (nr-axSpA) is a chronic inflammatory condition with axial and peripheral musculoskeletal involvement, fulfilling criteria of axSpA in the absence of advanced radiographic sacroiliitis. While appropriate treatment is required for chronic pain and disability resulting from disease progression, the limited availability of treatment options becomes evident. Upadacitinib, an oral selective Janus kinase 1 inhibitor, was approved in Europe, the United States, and other countries for management of nr-axSpA with inadequate response to existing therapies.

AREA COVERED

This review summarizes essential drug profiles, efficacy, and safety of upadacitinib for nr-axSpA in conjunction with data pertaining to radiographic axSpA.

EXPERT OPINION

In a phase 3 trial, upadacitinib exhibited efficacy for patients with nr-axSpA, irrespective of prior exposures to biological disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (bDMARDs). The safety profiles of upadacitinib in nr-axSpA mirrored those in other indications, underscoring its potential as a promising treatment option for nr-axSpA. Concurrently, physicians should be aware of the absence of real-world data, longitudinal efficacy and safety, direct comparative studies between upadacitinib and bDMARDs in nr-axSpA, and evidence for precision medicine to identify patients who may optimally benefit from upadacitinib over bDMARDs. Future research is imperative to facilitate the effective utilization of upadacitinib in daily clinical practice.

Association of sleep quality with duty hours, mental health, and medical errors among Japanese postgraduate residents: a cross-sectional study

Long duty hours (DH) impair sleep and negatively affect residents' health and medical safety. This cross-sectional study investigated the association among residents' DH, sleep duration, insomnia, sleep impairment, depressive symptoms, and self-reported medical errors among 5579 residents in Japan who completed the General Medicine In-Training Examination (2021) and participated in the training-environment survey. Weekly DH was classified under seven categories. Sleep duration and insomnia symptoms, from the Athens Insomnia Scale, were analysed to determine sleep impairment; depressive symptoms and medical errors were self-reported. Among 5095 residents, 15.5% slept < 5 h/day, and 26.7% had insomnia. In multivariable analysis, compared with ≥ 60 and < 70, DH ≥ 90 h/week associated with shorter sleep duration and worsen insomnia symptoms. Shorter durations of sleep and more intense symptoms of insomnia were associated with increased depressive symptoms. Medical errors increased only among residents with insomnia, but were not associated with sleep duration. DH > 90 h/week could lead to shorter sleep duration, worsen insomnia symptoms, and negatively impact well-being and medical safety. There was no significant association between sleep duration and medical errors; however, insomnia conferred an increased risk of medical errors. Limiting DH for residents to avoid excessive workload can help improve resident sleep, enhance resident well-being, and potentially reduce insomnia-associated medical errors.

Fractures in Patients With Acute Calcium Pyrophosphate Crystal Arthritis Versus Matched Comparators in a Large Cohort Study

OBJECTIVE

Calcium pyrophosphate deposition (CPPD) disease was associated with osteopenia in two cross-sectional studies. We compared fracture risks in patients with acute calcium pyrophosphate (CPP) crystal arthritis versus matched comparators.

METHODS

We performed a longitudinal cohort study using electronic health record data from a single large academic health system, with data from 1991 to 2023. Patients with one or more episodes of acute CPP crystal arthritis were matched to comparators on the index date (first documentation of "pseudogout" or synovial fluid CPP crystals or matched encounter) and first encounter in the health system. The primary outcome was first fracture at the humerus, wrist, hip, or pelvis. We excluded patients with fracture before the index date. Covariates included demographics, body mass index, smoking, comorbidities, health care use, glucocorticoids, and osteoporosis treatments. We estimated incidence rates and adjusted hazard ratios for fracture. Sensitivity analyses excluded patients prescribed glucocorticoids, patients prescribed osteoporosis treatments, or patients with rheumatoid arthritis and additionally adjusted for chronic kidney disease.

RESULTS

We identified 1,148 patients with acute CPP crystal arthritis matched to 3,730 comparators, with a mean age of 73 years. Glucocorticoids and osteoporosis treatments were more frequent in the acute CPP crystal arthritis cohort. Fracture incidence rates were twice as high in the acute CPP crystal arthritis cohort (11.7 per 1,000 person-years) versus comparators (5.5 per 1,000 person-years). After multivariable adjustment, fracture relative risk was twice as high in the acute CPP crystal arthritis cohort (hazard ratio 1.8 [95% confidence interval 1.3-2.3]); results were similar in sensitivity analyses.

CONCLUSION

In this first published study of fractures and CPPD, fracture risk was nearly doubled in patients with acute CPP crystal arthritis.

A retrospective analysis of the safety of tacrolimus use and its optimal cut-off concentration during pregnancy in women with systemic lupus erythematosus: study from two Japanese tertiary referral centers

BACKGROUND

Tacrolimus is one of the major treatment options for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and is considered to be a pregnancy-compatible medication. Since little is known about tacrolimus safety during pregnancy complicated by SLE, this study was designed.

METHODS

We included SLE pregnant patients who were followed up at two Japanese tertiary referral centers. We performed multivariate logistic regression analysis to assess each adverse pregnancy outcome (APO) risk. Moreover, we assessed the influence of tacrolimus on the APO ratio in pregnant patients with lupus nephritis, and the impact of combined tacrolimus-aspirin therapy on the APO ratio relative to patients exclusively administered tacrolimus.

RESULTS

Of the 124 pregnancies, 29 were exposed to tacrolimus. Multivariate analysis showed no statistical difference in APO ratio. (overall APO: adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 0.69; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.23-2.03; p = 0.50; maternal APO: aOR, 1.17; 95% CI, 0.36-3.83; p = 0.80; neonatal APO: aOR, 1.10; 95% CI, 0.38-3.21; p = 0.86; PROMISSE APO: aOR, 0.50; 95% CI, 0.14-1.74; p = 0.27). Blood pressure and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) during pregnancy and after delivery did not differ between the two groups. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve showed that tacrolimus concentration > 2.6 ng/ml was related to reduced preterm birth rate. (AUC = 0.85, 95% CI: 0.61-1.00, sensitivity: 93% and specificity: 75%). Regarding effect of tacrolimus on lupus nephritis during pregnancy, tacrolimus showed no increased risk of APO, blood pressure or eGFR during pregnancy and after delivery. (overall APO: OR, 1.00; 95% CI, 0.25-4.08; p = 0.98; maternal APO: OR 1.60, 95% CI, 0.39-6.64; p = 0.51; neonatal APO: OR, 0.71; 95% CI, 0.17-3.03; p = 0.65, PROMISSE APO: OR, 0.50; 95% CI, 0.08-3.22; p = 0.47). Tacrolimus-aspirin combination therapy showed a protective tendency against hypertensive disorders during pregnancy, preeclampsia and low birth weight.

CONCLUSIONS

Tacrolimus use during pregnancy with SLE and lupus nephritis showed no significant influence on APO, blood pressure, or renal function; therefore tacrolimus may be suitable for controlling lupus activity during pregnancy. In addition, when using tacrolimus during pregnancy, we should aim its trough concentration ≥ 2.6 ng/ml while paying careful attention to possible maternal side effects of tacrolimus.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Retrospectively registered.

Disease-modifying effect and long-term safety of belimumab in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: A single-center retrospective study

BACKGROUND

Disease modification in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is important for minimizing disease activity while limiting treatment-associated toxicities. Belimumab can be used as a remission-induction/maintenance systemic lupus erythematosus therapy; however, its disease-modifying effects are unclear. We aimed to determine these effects in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus.

METHODS

This single-center retrospective cohort study included 92 patients with systemic lupus erythematosus treated with belimumab. We analyzed the changes in flare free rate/lupus low disease activity state (LLDAS) attainment rate/glucocorticoid dosage/Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics and American College of Rheumatology damage index (SDI) score/drug retention rate after treatment initiation.

RESULTS

Fifty-two weeks after initiating belimumab, the flare rate decreased from 82.6% to 14.1% (p < .01). Until week 52 and 1000 days after initiating belimumab treatment, > 70% and ∼90% of the patients attained lupus low disease activity state, respectively. Belimumab treatment significantly reduced glucocorticoid demand (initiation day, 8.88 (6.00-15.00) mg/d; week 52, 5.00 (2.00-7.00) mg/d; final day of the study period, 3.00 (0.46-6.06) mg/d, initiation day vs. week 52: p < .01, initiation day vs. final day: p < .01); at the end of the study period, 68.5% of patients required ≤5 mg/d prednisolone, and 22.8% discontinued glucocorticoids. Most patients were SDI progression-free (week 52, ∼95%; day 1000, ∼90%), and belimumab showed a high drug retention rate (week 52, 90%; day 1000 > 80%).

CONCLUSION

Most patients experienced lupus low disease activity state, reduced flare rate and glucocorticoid demand, and a stable SDI trend after belimumab treatment initiation. Given its efficacy and retention rate, belimumab treatment may serve as a fundamental strategy in disease modification.

Association between regional quota program in medical schools and practical clinical competency based on General Medicine In-Training Examination score: a nationwide cross-sectional study of resident physicians in Japan

PURPOSE

A regional quota program (RQP) was introduced in Japan to ameliorate the urban-rural imbalance of physicians. Despite concerns about the low learning abilities of RQP graduates, the relationship between the RQP and practical clinical competency after initiating clinical residency has not been evaluated.

METHODS

We conducted a nationwide cross-sectional study to assess the association between the RQP and practical clinical competency based on General Medicine In-Training Examination (GM-ITE) scores. We compared the overall and category GM-ITE results between RQP graduates and other resident physicians. The relationship between the RQP and scores was examined using multilevel linear regression analysis.

RESULTS

There were 4978 other resident physicians and 1119 RQP graduates out of 6097 participants from 593 training hospitals. Being younger; preferring internal, general, or emergency medicine; managing fewer inpatients; and having fewer ER shifts were all characteristics of RQP graduates. In multilevel multivariable linear regression analysis, there was no significant association between RQP graduates and total GM-ITE scores (coefficient: 0.26; 95% confidence interval: -0.09, 0.61; P = .15). The associations of RQP graduates with GM-ITE scores in each category and specialty were not clinically relevant. However, in the same multivariable model, the analysis did reveal that total GM-ITE scores demonstrated strong positive associations with younger age and GM preference, both of which were significantly common in RQP graduates.

CONCLUSION

Practical clinical competency evaluated based on the GM-ITE score showed no clinically relevant differences between RQP graduates and other resident physicians. Key messages What is already known on this topic Many countries offer unique admission processes to medical schools and special undergraduate programs to increase the supply of physicians in rural areas. Concerns have been raised about the motivation, learning capabilities, and academic performance of the program graduates. What this study adds This nationwide cross-sectional study in Japan revealed clinical competency based on the scores from the General Medicine In-Training Examination showed no clinically relevant differences between graduates of regional quota programs and other resident physicians. How this study might affect research, practice, or policy The study provides evidence to support the Japanese regional quota program from the perspective of clinical competency after initiating clinical practice.

Association between prolonged weekly duty hours and self-study time among residents: a cross-sectional study

PURPOSE

In 2024, the Japanese government will enforce a maximum 80-hour weekly duty hours (DHs) regulation for medical residents. Although this reduction in weekly DHs could increase the self-study time (SST) of these residents, the relationship between these two variables remains unclear. The aim of the study was to investigate the relationship between the SST and DHs of residents in Japan.

METHODS

In this nationwide cross-sectional study, the subjects were candidates of the General Medicine In-Training Examination in the 2020 academic year. We administered questionnaires and categorically asked questions regarding daily SST and weekly DHs during the training period. To account for hospital variability, proportional odds regression models with generalized estimating equations were used to analyse the association between SST and DHs.

RESULTS

Of the surveyed 6117 residents, 32.0% were female, 49.1% were postgraduate year-1 residents, 83.8% were affiliated with community hospitals, and 19.9% worked for ≥80 hours/week. Multivariable analysis revealed that residents working ≥80 hours/week spent more time on self-study than those working 60-70 hours/week. Conversely, residents who worked <50 hours/week spent less time on self-study than those who worked 60-70 hours/week. The factors associated with longer SST were sex, postgraduate year, career aspiration for internal medicine, affiliation with community hospitals, academic involvement, and well-being.

CONCLUSION

Residents with long DHs had longer SSTs than residents with short DHs. Future DH restrictions may not increase but rather decrease resident SST. Effective measures to encourage self-study are required, as DH restrictions may shorten SST.

Bulbar and post-bulbar duodenal ulcers: characteristics based on location

OBJECTIVES

Most research on duodenal ulcers has focused on bulbar ulcers; details on post-bulbar ulcers remain largely unknown. This study was conducted to determine the characteristics of patients with post-bulbar duodenal ulcers depending on their location.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

We conducted a retrospective study of hospitalized patients newly diagnosed with duodenal ulcers on endoscopy at a tertiary referral center in Japan between April 2004 and March 2019. Five hundred fifty-one patients diagnosed with duodenal ulcers were extracted for analysis.

RESULTS

Ulcers were observed only in the bulbus in 383 cases, only in the post-bulbar duodenum in 82 cases, and were co-existing in both areas in 86 cases. The Bulbar group had less comorbidities and was more likely to have atrophic gastritis, while the Post-bulbar and Co-existing groups were more likely to be admitted for non-gastrointestinal conditions. Regular acid suppressant use was more common in the post-bulbar group than in the Bulbar group. Bulbar ulcers were associated with a shorter length of stay relative to post-bulbar and co-existing ulcers, but ulcer location was not an independent predictor of length of stay. Patients with co-existing bulbar and post-bulbar ulcers have characteristics similar to those with post-bulbar ulcers alone.

CONCLUSION

Patients with post-bulbar ulcers and those with co-existing bulbar and post-bulbar ulcers have different characteristics and outcomes relative to patients with bulbar ulcers.

Safety of tacrolimus use during pregnancy and related pregnancy outcomes in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: A retrospective single-center analysis in Japan

OBJECTIVE

Tacrolimus is one of the drugs that can be used in pregnancies complicated with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), but there are still few reports on its pregnancy outcomes. Although tacrolimus has been reported to cause adverse events, such as increased blood pressure, abnormal glucose metabolism, and susceptibility to infection, there have been no studies on the impact of tacrolimus in SLE pregnancies at these points. We performed a retrospective observational study of pregnancies complicated by SLE at St Luke's International Hospital in Tokyo from April 2003 to August 2021.

METHODS

Basic clinical information on SLE, pregnancy outcomes, disease activity before and after pregnancy, laboratory results, blood pressure, blood glucose levels, treatment regimens, and presence of infection was extracted from electronic medical records. We defined overall adverse pregnancy outcomes (APOs) as follows: (1) fetal death after 10 gestational weeks, (2) preterm delivery, (3) delivery due to hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, preeclampsia, or placental insufficiency, or (4) the diagnosis of small for gestational age infants. We also examined whether there was a statistical difference in APO incidence between patients treated with and without tacrolimus.

RESULTS

Pregnancy outcomes were obtained for 48 patients with a total of 60 pregnancies complicated by SLE. In 20 (33.3%) of these pregnancies, the patients took tacrolimus, and 28 (46.7%) of the pregnancies had APOs. APO incidence did not statistically differ between the tacrolimus and non-tacrolimus groups in the multivariate analysis (p = 1.00, adjusted OR 1, 95% CI: 0.23-4.39). Multiple regression analyses indicated that tacrolimus use did not significantly affect systolic blood pressure in the third trimester (B = -2.23, p = .74) or blood glucose levels in the first trimester (B = 10.2, p = .056). Incidence of infections did not significantly differ between patients treated with and without tacrolimus in the univariate analysis (10.8% vs. 21.1%, p = .42).

CONCLUSION

Tacrolimus did not significantly affect pregnancy outcomes, blood pressure, or glucose levels. Further research is required to confirm its effects in a larger population.

Impact of duty hours on competency-related knowledge acquisition among community hospital residents

Background

The effect of duty hour (DH) restrictions on postgraduate residents' acquisition of clinical competencies is unclear. We evaluated the relationship between DHs and competency-related knowledge acquisition using the General Medicine In-training Examination (GM-ITE).

Methods

We conducted a multicenter, cross-sectional study of community hospital residents among 2019 GM-ITE examinees. Self-reported average DHs per week were classified into five DH categories and the competency domains were classified into four areas: symptomatology and clinical reasoning (CR), physical examination and clinical procedure (PP), medical interview and professionalism (MP), and disease knowledge (DK). The association between these scores and DHs was examined using random-intercept linear models with and without adjustment for confounding factors.

Results

We included 4753 participants in the analyses. Of these, 31% were women, and 49.1% were in the postgraduate year (PGY) 2. Mean CR and MP scores were lower among residents in Category 1 (<50 h) than in residents in Category 3 (≥60 and <70 h; reference group). Mean DK scores were lower among residents in Categories 1 and 2 (≥50 and <60 h) than in the reference group. PGY-2 residents in Categories 1 and 2 had lower CR scores than those in Category 3; however, PGY-1 residents in Category 5 showed higher scores.

Conclusions

The relationship between DHs and each competency area is not strictly linear. The acquisition of knowledge of physical examination and clinical procedures skills in particular may not be related to DHs.

Differences in the Association Between Alcoholic Beverage Type and Serum Urate Levels Using Standardized Ethanol Content

IMPORTANCE

Differences have been observed in the association of serum urate levels with consumption of different types of alcoholic beverages. However, previous studies have not standardized the unit of intake for ethanol content, and only limited types of alcoholic beverages have been evaluated.

OBJECTIVE

To examine differences in the association of serum urate levels with various types of alcoholic beverages when their intakes are standardized for ethanol content.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

This retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted using data from participants aged 20 years or older who completed a medical checkup at St Luke's International University in Japan between October 1, 2012, and October 31, 2021. Participant demographics, blood test results, and lifestyle questionnaire data were used as covariates. Analysis was performed in December 2021.

EXPOSURES

Consumption of alcoholic beverages, including beer, sake (rice wine), shochu (Japanese spirit), wine, and whiskey.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Serum urate levels were measured during the medical checkup. The beverage unit was standardized to 1 standard drink, which contained 20 g of ethanol. Multivariable linear regression including interaction terms of alcohol consumption and dominant alcoholic beverage was performed.

RESULTS

This study included 78 153 participants. Their mean (SD) age was 47.6 (12.8) years; 36 463 (46.7%) were men and 41 690 were women (53.3%). A total of 45 755 participants (58.5%) were regular alcohol drinkers. Consistent associations of serum urate levels with alcohol consumption were observed in the beer-dominant group, with β coefficients (for 1 standard drink per day) of 0.14 mg/dL (95% CI, 0.11-0.17 mg/dL; P < .001) for men and 0.23 mg/dL (95% CI, 0.20-0.26 mg/dL; P < .001) for women. A moderate increase in serum urate levels was observed in the wine-dominant group compared with a modest and nonsignificant increase in the sake-dominant group, with β coefficients (for 1 standard drink per day) for the latter group of 0.05 mg/dL (95% CI, -0.01 to 0.10; P = .10) for men and 0.04 mg/dL (95% CI, -0.05 to 0.14 mg/dL; P = .38) for women. Restricted cubic splines showed different patterns in associations of serum urate levels with ethanol intake by dominant alcoholic beverages.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

The results of this study suggest that the extent of the association of serum urate levels with alcohol intake was different for alcoholic beverages even after ethanol content was standardized. Higher beer consumption among men and women was consistently associated with higher serum urate levels, whereas sake was not associated with changes in serum urate levels. Therefore, alcoholic beverage type, in addition to ethanol content, should be considered as a factor contributing to hyperuricemia.

Current evidence and practical knowledge for ultrasound-guided procedures in rheumatology: Joint aspiration, injection, and other applications

Ultrasound (US)-guided procedures have increasingly gained their role in the daily practice of rheumatology, owing to the growing evidence supporting their utility. The utilization of US guidance in procedures may enhance their accuracy, efficacy, and safety. This article presents a comprehensive review of the current evidence and practical knowledge pertaining to US-guided procedures in rheumatology, encompassing joint aspirations, injections, and other applications such as tendon sheath injections. We provide a detailed description of the US-guided procedure process and compare the in-plane and out-of-plane view methods, along with practical techniques based on existing evidence or our own expertise. For each joint, we summarize how to perform procedures with figures to facilitate a better understanding. Additionally, we introduce other applications of US-guided procedures for tendons, enthesis, bursae, and nerves as well as emerging therapies such as US-guided fascia hydrorelease. By utilizing these US techniques, rheumatologists can achieve the ability to manage a wider range of musculoskeletal conditions.

The perinatal outcomes by gestational weight gain range at 30 weeks of gestation among pre-pregnancy underweight women

AIMS

To evaluate the perinatal outcomes by gestational weight gain (GWG) range at 30 weeks of gestation among underweight pregnant women (pre-pregnancy body mass index ≤ 18.5 kg/m² ) in Japan.

METHODS

This retrospective study was conducted at a hospital in Japan from 2003 to 2020. The underweight pregnant women (UPW; n = 3643) were divided into quartile groups based on the weight gain at 30 weeks of gestation: group Q1 ≤ 5.7 kg, 5.7 kg < Q2 ≤ 7.2 kg, 7.2 kg < Q3 ≤ 8.8 kg, and 8.8 kg < Q4. Clinical characteristics and outcomes were compared using the t-test, chi-square test, and multivariable logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

The cumulative incidences of preterm births were 7.5% (n = 70), 5.0% (n = 45), 5.4% (n = 50), and 4.9% (n = 44), and the birth rates of small for gestational age (SGA) infants were 15.7% (n = 147), 9.6% (n = 87), 6.9% (n = 64), and 5.9% (n = 53) in Q1, Q2, Q3, and Q4, respectively. Multivariable analysis revealed that Q1 was significantly associated with preterm births (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.6; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.0-2.3), and Q1 and Q2 were significantly associated with SGA (adj. OR = 3.0; 95% CI = 2.2-4.3; adj. OR = 1.7; 95% CI = 1.2-2.5, respectively). None of the quartile groups were significantly associated with the incidence of primary cesarean sections, gestational diabetes mellitus, and macrosomia.

CONCLUSIONS

In UPW, GWG at 30 weeks of ≤5.7 kg and ≤7.2 kg are associated with preterm birth and SGA rates, respectively.

Relationship between COVID-19 care and burnout among postgraduate clinical residents in Japan: a nationwide cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVE

The relationship between the care of patients with COVID-19 and mental health among resident physicians in Japan is imperative for ensuring appropriate care of patients with COVID-19 and should be clarified. We herein assessed the relationship between the care of patients with COVID-19 and mental health among postgraduate year 1 (PGY-1) and PGY-2 resident physicians and factors associated with mental health.

DESIGN

This nationwide cross-sectional study analysed data obtained using the clinical training environment self-reported questionnaire.

SETTING

An observational study across Japan among resident physicians (PGY-1 and PGY-2) from 583 teaching hospitals.

PARTICIPANTS

Examinees who took the general medicine in-training examination of academic year 2020.

PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES

The Patient Health Questionnaire and Mini-Z 2.0 were used to assess mental health, and experience of caring for patients with COVID-19 was divided into three groups (none, 1-10 and ≥11). The prevalence of mental conditions in the three groups was compared using the 'modified' Poisson generalised estimating equations by adjusting for prefecture-level, hospital-level and resident-level variables.

RESULTS

Of the 5976 participants analysed, 50.9% were PGY-1. The prevalence of burnout was 21.4%. Moreover, 47.0% of all resident physicians had no experience in the care of patients with COVID-19. The well-experienced group accounted for only 7.9% of the total participants. A positive association was found between the number of caring patients with COVID-19 and burnout (prevalence ratio 1.25; 95% CI 1.02 to 1.53). Moreover, the shortage of personal protective equipment was identified as a major contributor to burnout (prevalence ratio 1.60; 95% CI 1.36 to 1.88).

CONCLUSIONS

Resident physicians who experienced more care of patients with COVID-19 had slightly greater burnout prevalence than those who did not. Approximately half of resident physicians did not participate in the care of patients with COVID-19, which posed a challenge from an educational perspective.

A case report of two systemic lupus erythematosus pregnancies with early placental exposure to belimumab: Case report with review

Since its approval for the management of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), belimumab has been widely used. However, its pregnancy safety profile has been underinvestigated. We present the pregnancy outcomes of two cases of early placental exposure to belimumab and summarise the pregnancy outcomes in previous reports regarding placental exposure to belimumab. Case 1 describes a 27-year-old woman with an 18-year history of SLE and lupus nephritis class III. We introduced belimumab 19 months prior to conception to control her proteinuria and discontinued its use at 5 weeks and 5 days of gestation. Her lupus activity was stable throughout pregnancy, and at 37 weeks and 1 day of gestation, she delivered a healthy girl with no anomaly. At delivery, the girl was small for gestational age, but at the 1-year follow-up, there was no delay in her growth or any serious infection. Case 2 describes a 32-year-old woman with a 15-year history of SLE. We introduced belimumab 9 months prior to conception and discontinued its use at 7 weeks and 1 day of gestation. Although her lupus was well controlled without belimumab, a missed abortion occurred, which was possibly due to foetal factors. Although there is accumulating data on the safety of belimumab use during pregnancy, it seems necessary to cautiously use this medication in pregnant women, until further analyses are conducted.

Why is the depth/width ratio of a typical fibroadenoma small in breast ultrasonography?

PURPOSE

Typical myxomatous fibroadenomas have a small depth/width (D/W) ratio on ultrasonography. The small D/W ratio of fibroadenomas is speculated to be caused by the softness of the mass and its orientation along the longitudinal aspect of the ductal elements without adhesion to the surrounding tissue; however, this has not been clearly proven. This study aimed to confirm the reason why fibroadenomas present with a small D/W ratio on ultrasonography.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed imaging data from 17 patients who were diagnosed with typical fibroadenomas on ultrasonography and who underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at our hospital.

RESULTS

The median D/W ratio obtained from ultrasonography images was 0.48 (0.32-0.67), while that obtained from MRI was 1.38 (0.62-1.68). The D/W ratios calculated from MRI were significantly greater than those calculated from ultrasonography images (p < 0.001). The D/W ratio obtained using ultrasonography was not greater than the D/W ratio obtained using MRI in any of the cases.

CONCLUSION

This study revealed that the small D/W ratio of fibroadenomas on ultrasonography may be attributable to the horizontal force acting on the breast against the chest wall in the supine position, the elasticity of the fibroadenoma, and the lack of adhesion between the mass and surrounding tissue.

Upadacitinib for moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis, in adults and adolescents 12 years and older: review of international and Japanese populations

INTRODUCTION

Atopic dermatitis is one of the most prevalent chronic skin diseases. Topical therapies continue to be the mainstay of treatment but are limited by noncompliance and side-effects from inappropriate or long-term use. Systemic therapies including cyclosporine and dupilumab have been the treatments of choice for refractory cases. However, outcomes may remain less than satisfactory, and cyclosporine use is further limited by nephrotoxicity.Upadacitinib, an oral Janus kinase inhibitor, is widely used for treating rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis and has recently received approval for atopic dermatitis in the United States, Europe, Japan, and other countries. These approvals were based on results from several randomized controlled trials in which upadacitinib demonstrated better and faster response versus placebo or dupilumab.

AREA COVERED

Therapies for atopic dermatitis are reviewed, with emphasis on drug profile, efficacy, and safety profile of upadacitinib for atopic dermatitis. In the review of the clinical trials, special focus is placed on efficacy in the Japanese population.

EXPERT OPINION

Currently, there are several treatment options for atopic dermatitis refractory to topical therapies. However, appropriate utilization of Janus kinase inhibitors in clinical practice remains challenging, especially with regard to proper case selection, optimal timing, and appropriateness of use.

Advantages of an alternate-day glucocorticoid treatment strategy for the treatment of IgG4-related disease: A preliminary retrospective cohort study

Alternate-day glucocorticoid (GC) therapy is a treatment option that can reduce GC-associated adverse events. We investigated the safety and efficacy of alternate-day GC therapy in patients with immunoglobulin G4-related disease (IgG4-RD). Medical records of patients with IgG4-RD who were followed for at least one year at St. Luke's International Hospital, Tokyo, Japan, from 2004 to 2020 were reviewed. Patients who fulfilled comprehensive IgG4-RD diagnostic criteria were divided into alternate-day or daily GC treatment groups based on their treatment protocol. The effect of alternate-day GC therapy on glucocorticoid toxicity index (GTI) score was evaluated using multilinear analysis with adjustments for cumulative GC doses until each assessment point and propensity scores (PS) for alternate-day GC therapy. Kaplan-Meier curves and Cox proportional hazard models were used to assess the efficacy of alternate-day GC therapy for disease control. Among the 67 patients with IgG4-RD, patients with alternate-day (n = 13) and daily (n = 31) GC treatments were analyzed after excluding 23 ineligible patients. The median (interquartile range) age was 64 (60-70) years, 29 (65.9%) were male patients, 26 (59.1%) patients had positive biopsy results, and the median follow-up period was 1643 days. Significantly more patients with alternate-day GC treatment used concomitant immunosuppressants (11 [84.6%] vs 11 [35.5%]; P = .007). The alternate-day strategy significantly lowered the GTI score after adjusting for cumulative GC dose until the assessment and PS (adjusted coefficient: -29.5 [-54.3, -4.8], P = .021 at 12 months; -20.0 [-39.8, -0.1], P = .049 at 24 months). Serious infections were numerically less frequent in the alternate-day group (incidence ratio [95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.45 [0.05, 3.63], P = .45). Most patients (92.3%) in the alternate-day GC treatment group and all patients in the daily GC treatment group showed treatment responses in the remission induction therapy. The PS-adjusted hazard ratio of alternate-day GC treatment for disease flares was not significant (1.55 [0.53, 4.51]; P = .43). The alternate-day treatment strategy significantly reduced GC-related adverse events regardless of the cumulative GC dose. Alternate-day GC treatment is a feasible option for patients with IgG4-RD, without a significant increase in disease flares particularly when combined with immunosuppressants.

Pulsed supplies of small fish facilitate time-limited intraguild predation in salmon-stocked streams

Pulsed supplies of prey generally increase predator food intake. However, it is unclear whether this holds true when predators and pulsed prey are in the same guild (i.e. intraguild (IG) predators and prey). IG prey may increase IG-predator food intake through predation, but they may decrease food intake through competition. To test these hypotheses, we compared the food intake of white-spotted charr (Salvelinus leucomaenis) (IG predator) in streams that were stocked or unstocked with masu salmon (Oncorhynchus masou) fry (IG prey) in streams in Hokkaido, Japan. One day after stocking, mean stomach content weight of charr was six times higher than in unstocked streams due to fry consumption. In particular, large charr showed intense piscivory. However, predation on fry was rare after about three weeks. Some factors that could explain this time-limited IG predation include the growth and decreasing abundance of fry over time and the acquisition of predator-avoidance behaviour. In days other than the first-day post-stocking, food intake by charr did not differ between stocked and unstocked streams. No effects of interspecific competition on charr food intake were observed.

Effect and safety profile of belimumab and tacrolimus combination therapy in thirty-three patients with systemic lupus erythematosus

INTRODUCTION/OBJECTIVES

Belimumab combined with mycophenolate mofetil has been proven to be effective for treating systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in several randomized controlled trials. Calcineurin inhibitors are also useful in controlling the activity of SLE. However, the safety and effectiveness of belimumab-calcineurin inhibitor combination therapy have not been addressed. Therefore, the current single-center retrospective study aimed to analyze the safety/efficacy profile of belimumab-tacrolimus (B-T) combination therapy in patients with SLE.

METHOD

Patients with SLE administered tacrolimus and belimumab during treatment were included in the study. Samples were analyzed for the drug retention rate, SLE flare rate, infection incidence rate, and glucocorticoid-sparing effect of the B-T combination therapy.

RESULTS

Thirty-three patients with SLE were treated with B-T combination therapy at our institution. Four patients discontinued treatment due to insufficient response or adverse events. The drug retention rate was over 90% at week 52 and approximately 80% at day 1000. Only one patient developed serious infection. The lupus low disease activity state (LLDAS) achievement ratio was 9.1% on the day of initiation and improved to 64.0% at 52 weeks after initiation. SLE flares were observed in three patients (9.1%) in the first 52 weeks after initiation, and in five patients (15.2%) throughout the study period. A glucocorticoid-reducing effect was also observed in patients treated with B-T combination therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

In most patients with SLE, B-T combination therapy is well tolerated with a good efficacy profile and glucocorticoid-reducing effect. Thus, B-T combination therapy represents a feasible option for patients with refractory lupus. Key Points • The safety and effectiveness of belimumab-calcineurin inhibitor combination therapy have not been addressed. • The drug retention rate of belimumab-tacrolimus combination therapy was over 90% at week 52 and around 80% on day 1000 • Almost none of the patients suffered from severe infection after the initiation of belimumab-tacrolimus combination therapy. • Belimumab-tacrolimus combination therapy is efficacious in suppressing lupus activity and achieving LLDAS.

Association between mental health and duty hours of postgraduate residents in Japan: a nationwide cross-sectional study

The new duty hour (DH) limit for doctors in Japan will begin in 2024, setting the maximum DHs for postgraduate residents at approximately 80 h weekly. To set appropriate limits, understanding the association between DHs and psychological health is necessary. Thus, we assessed the relationship between residents' psychological health and DHs. We conducted a cross-sectional study involving examinees of the General Medicine In-training Examination 2020. Mental health outcomes were measured dichotomously using the Patient Health Questionnaire-2 for depression and Mini-Z 2.0, for burnout, stress, and satisfaction. Weekly DHs were measured in seven categories at 10-h intervals. The prevalence ratios (PRs) between the DH categories were estimated for each outcome. Of the 6045 residents who provided data on DHs and psychological outcomes, 37.3% showed signs of depression, 21.6% experienced burn out, and 39.2% were highly stressed. In contrast, 62.3% were highly satisfied with their training. Proportions of burnout were higher among residents in Category 6 (≥ 90 and < 100 h; PR 1.36; 95% CI 1.11-1.66) and Category 7 (≥ 100 h; PR 1.36; 95% CI 1.10-1.68) compared with residents in Category 3 (≥ 60 and < 70 h; reference). The results partially support the weekly 80-h DH limit in terms of resident well-being.

Glucocorticoid discontinuation in patients with SLE with prior severe organ involvement: a single-center retrospective analysis

Objective

Long-term glucocorticoid use in SLE may have significant side effects; however, glucocorticoid discontinuation is occasionally associated with disease flare-ups. Therefore, we evaluated the risk factors for disease flares and the flare rate on glucocorticoid tapering in patients with prior severe organ involvement.

Methods

Data of patients with SLE with glucocorticoid tapering at our institution were retrospectively analysed. We divided the patients by the presence of prior severe organ involvement and compared flare rates after glucocorticoid discontinuation. Furthermore, we determined risk factors for flares after glucocorticoid discontinuation.

Results

In total, 309 patients with SLE were screened, 73 of whom met the inclusion criteria; 49 were classified as SLE with prior severe organ involvement. No significant differences were noted in the 52-week flare rate after glucocorticoid discontinuation between patients with and without prior severe organ involvement (16.7% vs 18.2%, p=1.0). Hypocomplementaemia, elevated anti-dsDNA antibody titres more than twice the upper limit of the laboratory reference range, positive anti-Smith/anti-ribonucleoprotein antibody, and use of any immunosuppressant on the day of glucocorticoid discontinuation were negatively associated with flare-free remission.

Conclusions

Glucocorticoid discontinuation after gradual tapering can often be achieved in patients with SLE, even with prior severe organ involvement, especially when the disease is clinically and serologically stable.

Immunoglobulin G4-related coronary periarteritis: a systematic literature review with a case series

We aimed to assess the clinical and radiological characteristics of immunoglobulin G4-related coronary periarteritis through a systematic literature review and from our case series. In the systematic literature review, we assessed English language manuscripts on immunoglobulin G4-related coronary periarteritis cases. Additionally, we identified patients with immunoglobulin G4-related coronary periarteritis at St. Luke's International Hospital in Tokyo, Japan, from 2014 to 2020. We summarized patients' demographics, immunoglobulin-G and -G4 titers, site and morphological features of the coronary lesion, and other organ involvements. We identified 38 cases from the literature and four patients from our institute. Coronary lesions were detected using coronary computed tomography in 40 (95.2%) patients. Mass-like or diffuse wall-thickening lesion was the most frequently observed type in 33 (78.6%) patients. No trends at the site of the coronary arteries were identified. Overall, 32 (76.1%) patients had multiple-organ involvement, of which the most common lesion was peri-aortitis in 21 (50.0%) patients. Ten (23.8%) patients with an isolated coronary lesion had significantly lower immunoglobulin-G4 titers than those with other organ involvements (immunoglobulin-G4: 261 [161.0, 564.0] vs. 1355.0 [320.8, 2480.0] mg/dL, p = 0.033). The wall-thickening lesions responded well to immunosuppressive treatments. Mass-like or diffuse wall-thickening on coronary computed tomography is a characteristic radiographic finding of immunoglobulin G4-related coronary periarteritis, which can occur in any branch. Immunoglobulin G4-related coronary periarteritis showed similar characteristics to other organ lesions, including its relatively low serum immunoglobulin-G4 level in patients with a single-organ disease and its high responsiveness to glucocorticoids.

Characteristics of Patients with Generalized Pustular Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Abstract is missing (Short communication)

Mid-to-caudal partial hemipelvectomy with limb preservation for ischial tumor in a dog

A 10-year-old spayed female Golden Retriever was referred for hindlimb lameness. A firm mass was palpated over the right caudal pelvis. Computed tomography revealed an osteolytic bone region and an associated periosteal reaction in the ischium, including the acetabulum. The histological diagnosis was sarcoma of unknown origin. A mid-to-caudal partial hemipelvectomy was performed to remove the mass. Femoral head and neck osteotomy was performed to allow hindlimb preservation. Following surgery, the dog regained satisfactory hindlimb use over time and was alive for 821 days with no recurrence or metastatic disease. This report indicates that mid-to-caudal partial hemipelvectomy with femoral head and neck osteotomy is technically feasible and allows for tumor control with preservation of the hindlimb and its function.

A case of systemic sarcoidosis with mesangial proliferative glomerulonephritis showing predominant deposition of IgG in the mesangial region

A 37-year-old African-British man was referred to our hospital for detailed examination because of persistent fever, swelling and pain in both ankle joints, and blurred vision for two months. Inguinal lymph node biopsy showed a large number of epithelioid granulomas without necrosis. Granulomatous anterior uveitis, nephropathy, high serum angiotensin-converting enzyme activity, and high serum-soluble interleukin-2 receptor were observed, and the diagnosis of systemic sarcoidosis was made. His serum creatinine was 1.4 mg/dL and hematuria, leukocyturia, and urine protein were also seen. The renal biopsy finding was mesangial proliferative glomerulonephritis, with no findings of granuloma formation or tubular interstitial nephritis. Immunofluorescence staining showed deposition of IgG, C3, and C1q in the mesangial region. IgG3 was dominant in subclass staining. There was no monoclonality on kappa and lambda staining. Electron microscopy showed predominant deposition in the mesangial region with some subepithelial and endothelial deposition. His hematuria and leukocyturia disappeared with steroid therapy, suggesting sarcoidosis-related nephropathy. A case of systemic sarcoidosis with mesangial proliferative glomerulonephritis showing predominant deposition of IgG in the mesangial region is presented. No cases of such histological findings have been reported so far, and it is necessary to analyze further cases to clarify the pathogenic significance of the renal biopsy findings observed in this case.

Clinical characteristics of non-radiographic versus radiographic axial spondyloarthritis in Asia and non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis in other regions: results of the cross-sectional ASAS-COMOSPA study

Objectives

To delineate characteristics of non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis (nr-axSpA) in Asia versus non-Asian regions, and compare radiographic axSpA (r-axSpA) with nr-axSpA within Asia.

Methods

Data were collected from the Assessment of SpondyloArthritis international Society-COMOrbidities in SPondyloArthritis database. Categorising patients by region, we compared clinical characteristics between nr-axSpA from Asia vs elsewhere (Europe, the Americas and Africa). Within Asians, we additionally compared patient characteristics of those with nr-axSpA versus r-axSpA.

Results

Among 3984 SpA cases, 1094 were from Asian countries. Of 780 axSpA patients in Asia, 112 (14.4%) had nr-axSpA, less than in non-Asian countries (486/1997, 24.3%). Nr-axSpA patients in Asia were predominantly male (75.9% vs 47.1%), younger at onset (22.8 vs 27.8 years) and diagnosis (27.2 vs 34.5 years), and experienced less diagnostic delay (1.9 vs 2.9 years) compared with nr-axSpA in non-Asian countries. Nr-axSpA in Asia exhibited higher human leucocyte antigens-B27 prevalence (90.6% vs 61.9%), fewer peripheral SpA features (53.6% vs 66.3%) and similar extra-articular and comorbid disease rates compared with those with nr-axSpA in non-Asian countries. Disease activity, functional impairment and MRI sacroiliitis were less in nr-axSpA in Asia, with higher rates of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug response and less methotrexate and biological disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs use. Within Asia, r-axSpA showed higher disease activity and structural damage compared with nr-axSpA, with no differences in other features.

Conclusion

Among axSpA, lower frequency of nr-axSpA was observed in Asia. Our results offer an opportunity to better understand clinical characteristics and optimise diagnostic strategies, such as ensuring access and availability of MRI resources for accurate diagnosis of nr-axSpA in Asia.

Clinical significance of monitoring hypothyroidism in patients with autoimmune rheumatic disease: a retrospective cohort study

We evaluated whether thyroid function test (TFT) screening is warranted for patients with autoimmune rheumatic diseases (ARD) by comparing the incidence of hypothyroidism requiring treatment (HRT) in ARD patients and healthy controls (HCs). Medical records of 2307 ARD patients and 78,251 HCs for whom thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels were measured between 2004 and 2018 were retrospectively reviewed. Cumulative incidence of HRT in ARD patients and HCs was compared. HRT development was evaluated with age- and sex-adjusted Kaplan–Meier curve. Risk factors were identified with Cox proportional hazard models. HRT was significantly more common in ARD patients than in HCs (6.3% vs. 1.9%, P < 0.001). After adjusting for age, sex, and baseline TSH level, hazard ratios for HRT were significantly higher in overall ARD patients (hazard ratio [95% confidence interval] 3.99 [3.27–4.87]; P < 0.001), particularly with rheumatoid arthritis and antinuclear antibody-associated diseases in female, and antinuclear antibody-associated diseases, spondyloarthritis, and vasculitis in male patients. Baseline high TSH level, thyroid-related autoantibody positivity, high IgG, and renal impairment were significant risk factors for hypothyroidism development in ARD patients; 20% of high-risk patients developed HRT during follow-up. HRT was significantly more frequent in ARD patients. Careful TFT screening and follow-up could help detecting clinically important hypothyroidism.

Evidence for Introgressive Hybridization between Native Dolly Varden (Salvelinus curilus (syn. Salvelinus malma)) and Introduced Brook Trout (Salvelinus fontinalis) in the Nishibetsu River of Hokkaido, Japan

Hybridization is one of the negative outcomes for the introduction of non-native species, which can lead to rapid displacement and genetic extinction of native species. Salmonid fishes have been widely introduced outside of their native ranges for food supply and recreational fishing. Here, we investigate the occurrence of introgressive hybridization among native Dolly Varden (Salvelinus curilus (syn. Salvelinus malma)), white-spotted charr (Salvelinus leucomaenis), and introduced brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis), in streams of the Nishibetsu River, Hokkaido, Japan. Microsatellite DNA analysis detected five hybrids between native Dolly Varden and introduced brook trout. This is the first evidence for hybridization between native Dolly Varden and introduced brook trout, while the latter has been known to hybridize with many other salmonids. Furthermore, incongruence between mitochondrial DNA and microsatellite DNA analyses suggested introgression among the three Salvelinus species. Further studies to estimate the hybrid fitness are necessary to understand how hybridization among the three species affects the native species.

AB0763 IGG4-RELATED CORONARY PERIARTERITIS: SYSTEMATIC LITERATURE REVIEW WITH OUR CASE SERIES

Background:

Coronary periarteritis is one of the clinical manifestations of IgG4-related disease. It can cause serious conditions such as angina and ruptured aneurysms. Therefore, it is important to recognize the clinical and radiological characteristics, which was little known.

Objectives:

We report four patients with IgG4-related coronary periarteritis with a systematic literature review.

Methods:

We identified four patients with IgG4-related coronary periarteritis at the St. Luke’s International Hospital in Tokyo, Japan from 2014 to 2020. A systematic literature review was conducted for English articles on IgG4-related coronary periarteritis cases with a full text or abstract available. We summarized patient demographics, IgG and IgG4 titers, the site and morphological type of coronary lesion, and other organ involvements.

Results:

Our 4 cases and 38 cases identified by the literature review were assessed. Coronary artery lesions were detected by a coronary CT in all but two cases. Wall thickening was the most common type of the lesion. Moreover, there were 32 (76.1%) patients with other organ involvements. The commonest other lesion was peri-aortitis in 21 (50.0%) patients. In cases with peri-aortitis, IgG and IgG4 titers were significantly higher than those without peri-aortitis (IgG4; 1540 [705.0, 2570.0] vs 246.0 [160.0, 536.3]; p = 0.001, IgG; 3596.5 [2838.3, 4260.0] vs 1779.0 [1288.3, 1992.8]; p =0.040). In addition, 15 (71.4%) patients of them had three or more IgG4 related organ involvements.

Conclusion:

Coronary CT was a useful imaging modality for the diagnosis of IgG4-related coronary periarteritis, and wall thickening was the most common lesion. Moreover, about half cases coexisted with peri-aortitis. Peri-aortitis and other organ involvements should be screened in those with higher IgG and IgG4.

Table 1.

Characteristics of our cases and the literature review cases.

RCA: right coronary artery, LAD: left anterior descending artery, LCx: left circumflex artery

Disclosure of Interests:

None declared

POS0975 CLINICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF NONRADIOGRAPHIC AXIAL SPONDYLOARTHRITIS IN ASIAN COUNTRIES COMPARED TO OTHER REGIONS: RESULTS OF THE INTERNATIONAL CROSS-SECTIONAL ASAS-COMOSPA STUDY

Background:

Clinical characteristics of nonradiographic axial spondyloarthritis (nr-ax-SpA) are highly variable across patients, and may potentially vary across patient populations, particularly due to differing distributions of human leukocyte antigens (HLA) and other genetic factors. The majority of nr-ax-SpA studies have been conducted in Europe, the United States, and small studies are reported from Asia [1].

Objectives:

To delineate clinical characteristics of patients with nr-ax-SpA in Asian countries in comparison to other areas of the world.

Methods:

Utilizing the ASAS-COMOSPA data, an international cross-sectional observational study of SpA patients, we analyzed information on demographics, disease characteristics, comorbidities, and risk factors. Patients were classified by region: Asia (China, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, and Taiwan), and non-Asian countries (Europe, Americas, and Africa); patient characteristics, including diagnosis and treatment, were compared.

Results:

Among 3984 SpA patients included in the study, 1094 were from centers in Asian countries, and 2890 from other regions. 112/780 (14.4%) of axial SpA patients in Asian countries were nr-ax-SpA, substantially less than in other countries (486/1997, 24.3%). Nr-ax-SpA patients in Asian countries compared to nr-ax-SpA in other countries were more likely male (75.9 vs 47.1%), have onset (22.8 vs 27.8 years) and diagnosis (27.2 vs 34.5 years) at younger age, and experience less diagnostic delay (1.88 vs 2.92 years) (Table 1). Nr-ax-SpA patients in Asian countries have higher prevalence of positive HLA-B27 (90.6% vs 61.9%) and fewer peripheral signs such as arthritis, enthesitis, or dactylitis (53.6% vs 66.3%) but have similar rate of extra-articular manifestations (psoriasis, IBD, or uveitis) and co-morbidities. Disease activity, functional impairment, and inflammation on MRI were less in nr-ax-SpA patients in Asian countries. NSAIDs response was higher and use of methotrexate and b-DMARDs were lower among nr-ax-SpA in Asian countries.

Conclusion:

Among axial SpA patients, substantially lower frequency of nr-ax-SpA was observed in Asian countries compared to other regions of the world. Nr-ax-SpA patients in Asian countries were predominantly male, and had younger disease onset with higher HLA-B27 positivity rate and less peripheral signs, and better response to NSAIDs. These results offer an opportunity to improve both early diagnosis and treatment of nr-ax-SpA patients in Asian countries.

Table 1.

Characteristics of nonradiographic axial SpA in Asia versus non-Asian regions

VariablesAsianon-Asian regionsp valueN112486Age at disease diagnosis, yrs27.2 [21.1, 39.6]34.5 [27.7, 41.7]<0.001Diagnostic delay, yrs1.88 [0.27, 5.56]2.92 [0.59, 9.58]0.011Male (%)85 (75.9)229 (47.1)<0.001Sacroiliitis on MRI among tested (%)49 (67.1)341 (82.2)0.005HLA B27 positivity among measured (%)96 (90.6)273 (61.9)<0.001Inflammatory Back Pain (%)107 (95.5)478 (98.4)0.076Arthritis, enthesitis, or dactylitis (%)60 (53.6)322 (66.3)0.016Psoriasis (%)12 (10.7)82 (16.9)0.142Uveitis (%)20 (17.9)81 (16.7)0.870Inflammatory bowel disease (%)5 (4.5)27 (5.6)0.817Elevated CRP (%)37 (33.0)213 (43.8)0.048Physician global assessment (0-10)2.0 [1.0, 5.0]2.0 [1.0, 4.0]0.741Patient global assessment (0-10)3.0 [1.0, 6.0]4.0 [2.0, 6.0]0.012ASDAS-CRP1.40 [0.95, 2.08]1.97 [1.21, 2.78]<0.001BASFI0.8 [0.05, 2.65]2.9 [0.8, 5.6]<0.001Good response to NSAIDs (%)80 (71.4)272 (56.0)0.004Methotrexate use (%)18 (16.1)134 (27.6)0.016Biological DMARDs use (%)27 (24.1)191 (39.3)0.004

References:

[1]López-Medina C, Ramiro S, van der Heijde D, et al. Characteristics and burden of disease in patients with radiographic and non-radiographic axial Spondyloarthritis: a comparison by systematic literature review and meta-analysis. RMD Open. 2019 Nov 21;5(2): e001108.

Acknowledgements:

This study was conducted under the umbrella of the International Society for Spondyloarthritis Assessment (ASAS) and COMOSPA study was supported by unrestricted grants from Pfizer, AbbVie and UCB.

Disclosure of Interests:

Keisuke Ono: None declared, Mitsumasa Kishimoto Speakers bureau: AbbVie, Amgen-Astellas BioPharma, Asahi-Kasei Pharma, Astellas, Ayumi Pharma, BMS, Chugai, Daiichi-Sankyo, Eisai, Eli Lilly, Gilead, Janssen, Kyowa Kirin, Novartis, Ono Pharma, Pfizer, Tanabe-Mitsubishi, Teijin Pharma, and UCB Pharma, Consultant of: AbbVie, Amgen-Astellas BioPharma, Asahi-Kasei Pharma, Astellas, Ayumi Pharma, BMS, Chugai, Daiichi-Sankyo, Eisai, Eli Lilly, Gilead, Janssen, Kyowa Kirin, Novartis, Ono Pharma, Pfizer, Tanabe-Mitsubishi, Teijin Pharma, and UCB Pharma, Sho Fukui: None declared, Satoshi Kawaai: None declared, Gautam A. Deshpande: None declared, Kazuki Yoshida Consultant of: OM1, Inc., Grant/research support from: Corrona, LLC, Naomi Ichikawa: None declared, Yuko Kaneko Speakers bureau: AbbVie, Astellas, Ayumi, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Chugai, Eisai, Eli Lilly, Hisamitsu, Jansen, Kissei, Pfizer, Sanofi, Takeda, Tanabe-Mitsubishi, and UCB, Taku Kawasaki: None declared, Kazuo Matsui: None declared, Mitsuhiro Morita: None declared, Kurisu Tada: None declared, Naoho Takizawa: None declared, Naoto Tamura: None declared, Atsuo Taniguchi: None declared, Yoshinori Taniguchi: None declared, Shigeyoshi Tsuji: None declared, Shigeto Kobayashi: None declared, Masato Okada: None declared, Clementina López-Medina: None declared, Anna Moltó Consultant of: AbbVie, Pfizer, MSD, Novartis, Gilead, Lilly and UCB, Grant/research support from: AbbVie, Pfizer, MSD, Novartis, Gilead, Lilly and UCB, Désirée van der Heijde Consultant of: AbbVie, Amgen, Astellas, AstraZeneca, Bayer, BMS, Boehringer Ingelheim, Celgene, Cyxone, Daiichi, Eisai, Eli-Lilly, Galapagos, Gilead, Glaxo-Smith-Kline, Janssen, Merck, Novartis, Pfizer, Regeneron, Roche, Sanofi, Takeda, UCB Pharma, Employee of: Imaging Rheumatology bv. (Director), Maxime Dougados: None declared, Yoshinori Komagata: None declared, Tetsuya Tomita: None declared, Shinya Kaname: None declared.

Risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes in Japanese systemic lupus erythematosus patients with prior severe organ manifestations: A single-center retrospective analysis

BACKGROUND

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) increases the incidence of adverse pregnancy outcomes (APOs). Nevertheless, most of the data on SLE pregnancies were derived from database studies in which details of the pregnancies were unavailable, and no consensus exists on the risk of APO in patients with prior severe organ manifestations.

METHODS

SLE patients followed by rheumatologists and gynecologists throughout pregnancy at our institute were retrospectively identified, and their data between April 2003 and December 2020 were reviewed from electronic records. We assigned patients based on the presence of prior severe organ manifestation (renal/neurological manifestation, prior treatment with methylprednisolone pulse therapy/prednisolone 1 mg/kg/day/biological or cytotoxic therapy) and compared the incidence of overall and serious APO (maternal death, pregnancy loss, preterm birth <32 weeks, birthweight <1500 g, Apgar score <7 at 5 min and birth defect).

RESULTS

This study included 34 pregnancies in 32 patients; 23 pregnancies in 22 patients were classified as SLE with prior severe organ manifestation. There was no statistical difference in the incidence of overall APO between the two groups (52.2% vs 45.5%, P = 1). Among patients with prior severe organ manifestation, 17.4% had serious APO. A detailed electronic health record search revealed specific causes of APO in all pregnancies with serious APO, except the presence of prior severe organ manifestation.

CONCLUSION

The incidence of overall APO in SLE patients was not affected by prior severe organ manifestation. Although the incidence of serious APOs increased in patients with previous severe organ manifestation, there were other risk factors for poor pregnancy outcomes besides prior lupus severity. Therefore, proper management by rheumatologists and gynecologists may enable patients with prior severe organ manifestation to safely deliver healthy babies.