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Ornowska S, Wudarski M, Dziewięcka E, Olesińska M. Naifold capillaroscopy in mixed connective tissue disease patients. Clin Rheumatol 2024; 43:1703-1709. [PMID: 38509242 DOI: 10.1007/s10067-024-06879-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD) is a rare systemic disease characterized by overlapping features of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), systemic sclerosis (SSc), dermato-/polymyositis (DM/PM), and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Naifold capillaroscopy (NFC) is a non-invasive test for evaluating the capillaries of the nail shaft used in the diagnosis of rheumatic diseases. OBJECTIVES To determine whether there are characteristic abnormalities in NFC in MCTD patients, and whether the type of NFC lesions correlates with organ involvement in these patients. METHODS Clinical picture and NFC patterns were analyzed in 43 patients with MCTD. Capillaroscopic images were divided into scleroderma-like pattern (SD-like pattern) according to the Cutolo classification, non-specific lesions, and normal images. Relationships between the clinical aspects considered in the MCTD classification criteria and the changes in the capillaroscopic images were evaluated. RESULTS SD-like pattern was present in 20 MCTD patients (46.51%) with a predominance of the "early" pattern. Giant, branched, dilated capillaries and reduced capillary density were found more frequently in MCTD patients compared to the control group (p-values 0.0005, 0.005, 0.02, < 0.0001 respectively). There were associations found between the presence of a reduced number of vessels, avascular areas, and SD-like pattern with the presence of sclerodactyly in MCTD patients (p = 0.002, p = 0.006, p = 0.02, respectively), alongside an association between the presence of branched vessels and the subpapillary plexus with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) (p = 0.04 and p = 0.005, respectively). CONCLUSIONS MCTD patients are significantly more likely to have abnormalities upon NFC. It is worthwhile to perform capillaroscopic examination in MCTD patients. Key Points • Scleroderma-like pattern was found in more than half of the MCTD patients. • Reduced capillary density was found to be a significant predictor of the diagnosis of MCTD. • There were relationships between the presence of reduced capillary density, avascular areas, and SD-like with the presence of sclerodactyly in the MCTD patients. • There was an association between the presence of branched vessels and the visibility of the subpapillary plexus and pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH).
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylwia Ornowska
- Department of Connective Tissue Diseases, National Institute of Geriatrics, Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, ul. Spartańska 1, 02-637, Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Mariusz Wudarski
- Department of Connective Tissue Diseases, National Institute of Geriatrics, Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, ul. Spartańska 1, 02-637, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Ewa Dziewięcka
- Department of Cardiac and Vascular Diseases, Jagiellonian University Collegium Medicum, Cardiac Institute, John Paul II Hospital, Kraków, Poland
| | - Marzena Olesińska
- Department of Connective Tissue Diseases, National Institute of Geriatrics, Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, ul. Spartańska 1, 02-637, Warsaw, Poland
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Alkhowaiter S, Al Rasheed MM, Alammar N, Alotaibi A, Altuwaijri M, Alshankiti S, Omair MA, Alsahafi M. Safety of prolonged use of metoclopramide and domperidone as treatment for chronic gastrointestinal dysmotility disorders in patients with systemic sclerosis. Saudi Pharm J 2024; 32:102039. [PMID: 38558884 PMCID: PMC10981152 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsps.2024.102039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Metoclopramide and domperidone are prokinetic agents commonly used to treat gastrointestinal dysmotility disorders. This study aimed to evaluate the safety and associated side effects of prolonged-use metoclopramide and domperidone as treatment for chronic gastrointestinal dysmotility disorders in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc). Methods A quantitative observational survey was conducted by interview questionnaire in rheumatology outpatients at a tertiary teaching hospital in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The study included all patients aged 25-80 years diagnosed with SSc. All patients were on metoclopramide or domperidone for the treatment of chronic gastrointestinal dysmotility symptoms over at least 12 weeks. Results Eighteen eligible patients were included. Most study participants were diagnosed with SSc complicated by interstitial lung disease (n = 13; 72.2 %). The most frequently reported side effect that occurred while taking prokinetic drugs was shortness of breath (n = 12; 66.7 %). None of the participants reported experiencing depression, galactorrhea, or syncope. CNS side effects were reported in 5.6 %. There were no differences in side effects based on the type and dosage of prokinetic drug used. Conclusions Use of metoclopramide and domperidone for the treatment of chronic gastrointestinal dysmotility in SSc patients for 12 weeks or longer was not associated with any troublesome side effects. Further studies with more participants are needed to confirm our findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saad Alkhowaiter
- College of Medicine, Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Maha M. Al Rasheed
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nuha Alammar
- College of Medicine, Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ammar Alotaibi
- College of Medicine, Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mansour Altuwaijri
- College of Medicine, Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Suliman Alshankiti
- College of Medicine, Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Majid Alsahafi
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
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Chen X, Zhou L, Xia Y, Wong YN, He Q, Tang P, Zhang S, Liu T, Wang Z, Xu N. Superb microvascular imaging for evaluating the activity of juvenile localised scleroderma: a preliminary study. Eur Radiol 2024:10.1007/s00330-024-10738-z. [PMID: 38652159 DOI: 10.1007/s00330-024-10738-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Revised: 02/25/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate microvascular changes in juvenile localised scleroderma (JLS) lesions using superb microvascular imaging (SMI) and assess SMI's utility in evaluating disease activity. METHODS This prospective study enroled 16 children (7 males) with pathologically diagnosed JLS between January 2021 and June 2023. Lesions were assessed using Localised Scleroderma Cutaneous Assessment Tools, including the localised scleroderma skin activity index (LoSAI) and localised scleroderma skin damage index (LoSDI). Lesions with LoSAI scores > 0 were classified as active. The thickness and blood flow of the lesions and healthy skin layers of the contralateral site were evaluated using ultrasound. SMI was used to detect microvascular blood flow in the lesions and healthy skin, and the vascular index (VI) was calculated. The difference in VI between active lesions and healthy skin was correlated with LoSAI and total scores. RESULTS Of 46 lesions, 23 were active and 23 inactive. The skin thickness of the lesion was 0.094 ± 0.024 cm, and that of the healthy site was 0.108 ± 0.026 cm (p < 0.001). The VI of the active lesions and healthy skin were 7.60 (3.60, 12.80)% and 1.10 (0.50, 2.10)%, respectively (p < 0.001). The VI of the inactive lesions and the healthy skin were 0.85 (0.00, 2.20)% and 1.60 (1.00, 3.10)%, respectively (p = 0.011). VI differences between active lesions and healthy skin positively correlated with the LoSAI clinical score (r = 0.625, p = 0.001) and total score (r = 0.842, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION SMI can quantitatively detect microvascular blood flow changes in JLS skin, indicating lesion activity and severity. CLINICAL RELEVANCE STATEMENT SMI is a convenient, non-invasive, technique for detecting active JLS lesions and can provide valuable information to guide treatment options. KEY POINTS Current grading systems of juvenile localised scleroderma rely on subjective clinical information. Superb Microvascular Imaging identified that vascular indexes between active lesions and healthy skin positively correlated with clinical scores. Superb Microvascular Imaging effectively assesses microvascular blood flow, aiding juvenile localised scleroderma lesion activity evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyi Chen
- Department of Ultrasound, Shenzhen Children's Hospital of China Medical University, Shenzhen, 518000, China
| | - Luyao Zhou
- Department of Ultrasound, Shenzhen Pediatrics Institute of Shantou University Medical College, Shenzhen, 518000, China
| | - Yu Xia
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Shenzhen Pediatrics Institute of Shantou University Medical College, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yik Ning Wong
- Canon Medical Systems (China) Co. Ltd., Beijing, China
| | - Qiancheng He
- Department of Ultrasound, Shenzhen Children's Hospital of China Medical University, Shenzhen, 518000, China
| | - Pengyue Tang
- Department of Dermatology, Shenzhen Pediatrics Institute of Shantou University Medical College, Shenzhen, China
| | - Shuangshuang Zhang
- Department of Ultrasound, Shenzhen Children's Hospital of China Medical University, Shenzhen, 518000, China
| | - Tingting Liu
- Department of Ultrasound, Shenzhen Pediatrics Institute of Shantou University Medical College, Shenzhen, 518000, China
| | - Ziyi Wang
- Department of Ultrasound, Shenzhen Pediatrics Institute of Shantou University Medical College, Shenzhen, 518000, China
| | - Na Xu
- Department of Ultrasound, Shenzhen Children's Hospital of China Medical University, Shenzhen, 518000, China.
- Department of Ultrasound, Shenzhen Pediatrics Institute of Shantou University Medical College, Shenzhen, 518000, China.
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Bhatt HN, Diwan R, Estevao IL, Dong R, Smith J, Xiao C, Agarwal SK, Nurunnabi M. Cadherin-11 targeted cell-specific liposomes enabled skin fibrosis treatment by inducing apoptosis. J Control Release 2024; 370:110-123. [PMID: 38648957 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2024.04.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 04/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
Continuous and aberrant activation of myofibroblasts is the hallmark of pathological fibrosis (e.g., abnormal wound healing). The deposition of excessive extracellular matrix (ECM) components alters or increases the stiffness of tissue and primarily accounts for multiple organ dysfunctions. Among various proteins, Cadherin-11 (CDH11) has been reported to be overexpressed on myofibroblasts in fibrotic tissues. Anti-apoptotic proteins such as (B cell lymphoma-2) (BCL-2) are also upregulated on myofibroblasts. Therefore, we hypothesize that CDH11 could be a targeted domain for cell-specific drug delivery and targeted inhibition of BCL-2 to ameliorate the development of fibrosis in the skin. To prove our hypothesis, we have developed liposomes (LPS) conjugated with CDH11 neutralizing antibody (antiCDH11) to target cell surface CDH11 and loaded these LPS with a BCL-2 inhibitor, Navitoclax (NAVI), to induce apoptosis of CDH11 expressing fibroblasts. The developed LPS were evaluated for physicochemical characterization, stability, in vitro therapeutic efficacy using dermal fibroblasts, and in vivo therapeutic efficacy in bleomycin-induced skin fibrosis model in mice. The findings from in vitro and in vivo studies confirmed that selectivity of LPS was improved towards CDH11 expressing myofibroblasts, thereby improving therapeutic efficacy with no indication of adverse effects. Hence, this novel research work represents a versatile LPS strategy that exhibits promising potential for treating skin fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Himanshu N Bhatt
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX 79902, United States; Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968, United States
| | - Rimpy Diwan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX 79902, United States; Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968, United States
| | - Igor L Estevao
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Sciences, The University of Texas El Paso, TX 79968, United States; The Border Biomedical Research Center, The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968, United States
| | - Rui Dong
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, College of Sciences, University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968, United States
| | - Jennifer Smith
- Department of Medicine, Section of Immunology, Allergy and Rheumatology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, United States
| | - Chuan Xiao
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, College of Sciences, University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968, United States
| | - Sandeep K Agarwal
- Department of Medicine, Section of Immunology, Allergy and Rheumatology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, United States.
| | - Md Nurunnabi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX 79902, United States; Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968, United States; The Border Biomedical Research Center, The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968, United States.
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Elrosasy A, Abo Zeid M, Cadri S, Fahmy BM, Elzeftawy MA, Mohammed F, Ramadan A. Efficacy and safety of botulinum toxin in treating scleroderma-associated raynaud's phenomenon: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Arch Dermatol Res 2024; 316:122. [PMID: 38630277 DOI: 10.1007/s00403-024-02864-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Amr Elrosasy
- Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
- Medical research group of Egypt (MRGE), Negida Academy, Arlington, MA, US
| | | | - Shirin Cadri
- University of medicine and pharmacy Grigore T. Popa, Ia?i, Romania
| | - Belal M Fahmy
- faculty of medicine, Ain shams university, Ain shams, Egypt
| | | | | | - Alaa Ramadan
- Faculty of Medicine, South Valley University, Qena, Egypt
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Freire M, Sopeña B, González-Quintela A, Del Castillo AG, Moraga EC, Lledó-Ibañez GM, Rubio-Rivas M, Trapiella L, Argibay A, Tolosa C, Alfonso BM, Vargas-Hitos JA, Salas XP, González-Echávarri C, Chamorro AJ, Fraile IP, García AG, de la Red Bellvis G, Bello DB, Salomó AC, Jiménez Pérez de Heredia I, Marín-Ballve A, Rodríguez-Pintó I, Saez-Comet L, Ortego-Centeno N, Todolí-Parra JA, Fonollosa Pla V, Simeón-Aznar CP. Exposure to different occupational chemicals and clinical phenotype of a cohort of patients with systemic sclerosis. Autoimmun Rev 2024; 23:103542. [PMID: 38599508 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2024.103542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Mayka Freire
- Unit of Systemic Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Clínico Universitario de Santiago de Compostela, A Coruña, Spain.
| | - Bernardo Sopeña
- Unit of Systemic Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Clínico Universitario de Santiago de Compostela, A Coruña, Spain
| | - Arturo González-Quintela
- Unit of Systemic Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Clínico Universitario de Santiago de Compostela, A Coruña, Spain
| | - Alfredo Guillén Del Castillo
- Unit of Autoimmune Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitario Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Eduardo Callejas Moraga
- Unit of Autoimmune Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitario Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Gema M Lledó-Ibañez
- Department of Autoimmune Diseases. Reference Centre for Systemic Autoimmune Diseases (UEC/CSUR) of the Catalan and Spanish Health Systems-Member of ERNReCONNET, Hospital Clínic, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Manuel Rubio-Rivas
- Unit of Autoimmune Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitario de Bellvitge-IDIBELL, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Luis Trapiella
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital de Cabueñes, Gijón, Spain
| | - Ana Argibay
- Unit of Systemic Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Vigo, Spain
| | - Carles Tolosa
- Department of Internal Medicine, Corporación Sanitaria Universitaria Parc Taulí, Sabadell, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Begoña Marí Alfonso
- Department of Internal Medicine, Corporación Sanitaria Universitaria Parc Taulí, Sabadell, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Xavier Pla Salas
- Unit of Systemic Autoimmune Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Consorci Hospitalari de Vic, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Cristina González-Echávarri
- Autoimmune Diseases Research Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitario de Cruces, Baracaldo, Spain
| | - Antonio-J Chamorro
- Department of Internal Medicine, Complejo Asistencial Universitario de Salamanca, Spain
| | - Isabel Perales Fraile
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitario Infanta Sofía, Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | - David Bernal Bello
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitario de Fuenlabrada, Madrid, Spain
| | - Antoni Castro Salomó
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitari Sant Joan de Reus, Tarragona, Spain
| | | | - Adela Marín-Ballve
- Unit of Autoimmune Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Clínico Universitario Lozano Blesa, IIS Aragón, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Ignasi Rodríguez-Pintó
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitario Mútua Terrassa, Terrassa, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Luis Saez-Comet
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitario Miguel Servet, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Norberto Ortego-Centeno
- Inst Invest Biosanitaria Ibs Granada. Department of Internal Medicine, Unit of Systemic Autoimmune Diseases. Department of Medicine, Facultad de Medicina, Hospital Universitario San Cecilio, Granada, Spain
| | | | - Vicent Fonollosa Pla
- Unit of Autoimmune Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitario Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carmen Pilar Simeón-Aznar
- Unit of Autoimmune Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitario Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
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Doskaliuk B, Zimba O. Borrelia burgdorferi and autoimmune mechanisms: implications for mimicry, misdiagnosis, and mismanagement in Lyme disease and autoimmune disorders. Rheumatol Int 2024:10.1007/s00296-024-05580-x. [PMID: 38578312 DOI: 10.1007/s00296-024-05580-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
The genus Borrelia encompasses a diverse group of spirochetes transmitted primarily by ticks, with Borrelia burgdorferi causing Lyme disease, which is prevalent in North America and Europe. Borrelia's structural adaptations and ability to persist in diverse host tissues underscore its pathogenic potential. Beyond traditional infectious responses, Borrelia engages in complex interactions with the host immune system, contributing to autoimmune mechanisms such as molecular mimicry and persistent infections. This intricate interplay manifests in symptoms resembling various autoimmune diseases, including systemic lupus erythematosus, dermatomyositis, local scleroderma, and systemic sclerosis. However, these associations lack a precise explanation, emphasizing the need for further investigation. The cases of misdiagnosis between Lyme borreliosis and autoimmune diseases highlight the critical importance of accurate diagnostics and adherence to guidelines. Understanding Borrelia's impact on immune responses is pivotal for advancing diagnostics and targeted therapeutic interventions in Lyme borreliosis and its potential autoimmune implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bohdana Doskaliuk
- Department of Patophysiology, Ivano-Frankivsk National Medical University, Halytska str. 2, Ivano-Frankivsk, 76000, Ukraine.
| | - Olena Zimba
- Department of Clinical Rheumatology and Immunology, University Hospital in Krakow, Kraków, Poland
- National Institute of Geriatrics, Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, Warsaw, Poland
- Department of Internal Medicine N2, Danylo Halytsky Lviv National Medical University, Lviv, Ukraine
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Chapman LS, Alcacer-Pitarch B, Pauling JD, Flurey CA, Redmond AC, Richards P, Herrick AL, Merkel PA, Proudman S, Menz HB, Helliwell PS, Hannan MT, Domsic RT, Saketkoo LA, Shea B, Siddle HJ. Patients' perspectives on systemic sclerosis-related Raynaud's phenomenon in the feet: A qualitative study from the OMERACT Foot and Ankle Working Group. Semin Arthritis Rheum 2024; 65:152372. [PMID: 38325052 DOI: 10.1016/j.semarthrit.2024.152372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore, from patients' perspectives, the symptoms and impact of Raynaud's phenomenon (RP) on the feet of patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc-RP), and to identify which foot-related domains are important to patients. METHODS Forty participants (34 women) with SSc-RP took part in one of six focus groups held in the United Kingdom or United States. Participants were purposively sampled to ensure diversity in disease type, duration, and ethnicity. The topic guide included questions on RP impact, self-management, and treatment expectations. Qualitative content analysis was employed to identify key concepts in the data relating to foot-specific symptoms and their impact. Themes were organized by corresponding domains of potential importance. RESULTS Twenty-eight participants (70 %) reported experiencing RP in their feet. Five themes were identified corresponding to domains of potential importance: temperature changes, pain, cramping and stiffness, numbness, and color changes. These issues negatively affected participants' lives, impairing walking, driving, and socializing, and causing issues with footwear and hosiery. CONCLUSIONS This large qualitative study exploring the experiences of patients with SSc-RP in the feet identified several key domains of high importance to patients. SSc-RP is common in the feet, presents in several patterns, and impacts multiple aspects of patients' lives. These findings indicate where future foot-specific interventions for RP could be targeted. Findings from this study improve understanding of what domains are important to patients with SSc-RP affecting the feet and will contribute to the development of a core outcome set for foot and ankle disorders in rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara S Chapman
- Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | | | - John D Pauling
- Royal National Hospital for Rheumatic Diseases, Royal United Hospitals Bath, Bath, UK; University of Bath, UK
| | - Caroline A Flurey
- School of Social Sciences, College of Health, Science and Society, University of the West of England, Bristol, UK
| | - Anthony C Redmond
- Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK; National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Leeds Biomedical Research Centre, Leeds, UK
| | | | - Ariane L Herrick
- Centre for Musculoskeletal Research, The University of Manchester, Northern Care Alliance NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Peter A Merkel
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Division of Clinical Epidemiology, Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology, and Informatics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Susanna Proudman
- Discipline of Medicine, University of Adelaide and Rheumatology Unit, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Hylton B Menz
- School of Allied Health, Human Services and Sport, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Philip S Helliwell
- Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Marian T Hannan
- Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research, Hebrew SeniorLife, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Robyn T Domsic
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | | | - Beverley Shea
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Heidi J Siddle
- Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK.
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Rubio-Rivas M, Pestaña-Fernández M. Prevalence of the limited vs. extensive scleroderma-related interstitial lung disease at the time of diagnosis of SSc-ILD based on Goh et al. criteria. Systematic review and meta-analysis. Rev Clin Esp 2024; 224:189-196. [PMID: 38387499 DOI: 10.1016/j.rceng.2024.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Goh et al. proposed in 2008 a classificatory algorithm of limited or extensive SSc-ILD. The prevalence of both at the time of diagnosis of SSc-ILD is not known with exactitude. METHODS The review was undertaken by means of MEDLINE and SCOPUS from 2008 to 2023 and using the terms: "systemic", "scleroderma" or "interstitial lung disease" [MesH]. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale was used for the qualifying assessment for observational studies and the Jadad scale for clinical trials. The inverse variance-weighted method was performed. RESULTS Twenty-seven studies were initially included in the systematic review and meta-analysis (SRMA). Of these, 17 studies had no overlapping data. They reported data from 2,149 patients, 1,369 (81.2%) were female. The mean age was 52.4 (SD 6.6) years. 45.2% of the patients had the diffuse subtype and 54.8% had the limited or sine scleroderma subtype. A total of 38.7% of the patients showed positive antitopoisomerase antibodies (ATA) and 14.2% positive anticentromere antibodies (ACA). The mean percentage of forced vital capacity (FVC) at baseline was 80.5% (SD 6.9) and of diffusing capacity of the lungs for carbon monoxide (DLco) was 59.1% (SD 9.6). Twelve studies presented SSc-ILD extension data adjusted for PFTs and were included in the meta-analysis. The 10 observational cohort studies were analyzed separately. The overall percentage of limited extension was estimated at 63.5% (95%CI 55.3-73; p < 0.001) using the random-effects model. Heterogeneity between studies (I2) was 9.8% (95%CI 0-68.2%) with the random-effects model. Extensive pulmonary involvement was estimated at 34.3% (95%CI 26-45.4; p < 0.001). Heterogeneity between studies (I2) was 0% (95%CI 0-61.6%) with the random-effects model. CONCLUSION The overall percentage of limited SSc-ILD at the time of diagnosis of SSc-ILD was estimated at 63.5% and extensive at 34.3%.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Rubio-Rivas
- Department of Internal Medicine, Bellvitge University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Melani Pestaña-Fernández
- Department of Internal Medicine, Moisés Broggi Hospital, Esplugues de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain.
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Neyer MA, Henry RS, Carrier ME, Kwakkenbos L, Virgili-Gervais G, Wojeck RK, Wurz A, Gietzen A, Gottesman K, Guillot G, Lawrie-Jones A, Mayes MD, Mouthon L, Nielson WR, Richard M, Sauvé M, Harel D, Malcarne VL, Bartlett SJ, Benedetti A, Thombs BD. The association of resilience and positive mental health in systemic sclerosis: A Scleroderma Patient-centered Intervention Network (SPIN) cohort cross-sectional study. J Psychosom Res 2024; 179:111648. [PMID: 38507968 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2024.111648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE A previous study using Scleroderma Patient-centered Intervention Network (SPIN) Cohort data identified five classes of people with systemic sclerosis (also known as scleroderma) based on patient-reported somatic (fatigue, pain, sleep) and mental health (anxiety, depression) symptoms and compared indicators of disease severity between classes. Across four classes ("low", "normal", "high", "very high"), there were progressively worse somatic and mental health outcomes and greater disease severity. The fifth ("high/low") class, however, was characterized by high disease severity, fatigue, pain, and sleep but low mental health symptoms. We evaluated resilience across classes and compared resilience between classes. METHODS Cross-sectional study. SPIN Cohort participants completed the 10-item Connor-Davidson-Resilience Scale (CD-RISC) and PROMIS v2.0 domains between August 2022 and January 2023. We used latent profile modeling to identify five classes as in the previous study and multiple linear regression to compare resilience levels across classes, controlling for sociodemographic and disease variables. RESULTS Mean CD-RISC score (N = 1054 participants) was 27.7 (standard deviation = 7.3). Resilience decreased progressively across "low" to "normal" to "high" to "very high" classes (mean 4.7 points per step). Based on multiple regression, the "high/low" class exhibited higher resilience scores than the "high" class (6.0 points, 95% confidence interval [CI] 4.9 to 7.1 points; standardized mean difference = 0.83, 95% CI 0.67 to 0.98). CONCLUSIONS People with worse disease severity and patient-reported outcomes reported substantially lower resilience, except a class of people with high disease severity, fatigue, pain, and sleep disturbance but positive mental health and high resilience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marieke A Neyer
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
| | - Richard S Henry
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
| | - Marie-Eve Carrier
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Linda Kwakkenbos
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University, Nijmegen, the Netherlands; Department of IQ Healthcare, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands; Department of Psychiatry, Centre for Mindfulness, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | | | | | - Amanda Wurz
- School of Kinesiology, University of the Fraser Valley, Chilliwack, Canada.
| | - Amy Gietzen
- National Scleroderma Foundation, Tri-State Chapter, Binghamton, NY, USA
| | | | | | - Amanda Lawrie-Jones
- Scleroderma Australia, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Scleroderma Victoria, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Maureen D Mayes
- University of Texas McGovern School of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.
| | - Luc Mouthon
- Service de Médecine Interne, Centre de Référence Maladies Autoimmunes Systémiques Rares d'Ile de France, Hôpital Cochin, Paris, France; Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris-Centre, Hôpital Cochin, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France.
| | - Warren R Nielson
- Department of Psychology, Western University, and Lawson Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Maureen Sauvé
- Scleroderma Society of Ontario, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada; Scleroderma Canada, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Vanessa L Malcarne
- Department of Psychology, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, USA; San Diego State University/University of California, San Diego Joint Doctoral Program in Clinical Psychology, San Diego, CA, USA.
| | - Susan J Bartlett
- Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
| | - Andrea Benedetti
- Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics, and Occupational Health, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Respiratory Epidemiology and Clinical Research Unit, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
| | - Brett D Thombs
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics, and Occupational Health, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Department of Psychology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Biomedical Ethics Unit, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
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11
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Elkjær AL, Næser EU, Aaen KT, Hovgaard HL, Juhl-Olsen P, Bendstrup E, Søndergaard K. Validity and reliability of measurement of peripheral oxygen saturation during the 6-Minute Walk Test in patients with systemic sclerosis. Rheumatol Int 2024; 44:611-620. [PMID: 38340159 PMCID: PMC10914912 DOI: 10.1007/s00296-024-05532-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
Peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO2) using the fingers may have important limitations due to Raynaud's phenomenon and sclerodactyly in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc). Sensors located at more central body positions may be more accurate as these as less prone to Raynaud attacks. To determine the validity and reliability of the SpO2 measured at the finger, forehead, and earlobe during the 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT). Eighty two patients with SSc had an arterial line placed while performing the 6MWT. Peripheral oxygen saturation was simultaneously measured by finger, forehead, and earlobe sensors and compared to the arterial oxygen saturation (SaO2) measured before and after the 6MWT. 40 patients repeated the 6MWT one week later to determine re-test reliability. We used Bland-Altman plots to display the agreement between SpO2 and SaO2. The intraclass correlation coefficient for repeated measurement of minimum SpO2 was calculated. The mean difference between SpO2 and SaO2 after the 6MWT was - 3% (SD: ± 5), 0% (SD: ± 2), and 1% (SD: ± 2) for the finger, forehead, and earlobe, respectively. The minimum SpO2 measured at the finger demonstrated the poorest re-test reliability: The ICC (95% CI) showed good agreement using the ear and forehead probe (ICCear = 0.89 [95% CI 0.80; 0.94]; ICCforehead = 0.77 [95% CI 0.60; 0.87]), while a modest reliability was found using the finger probe (ICCfinger = 0.65 95% CI [0.43; 0.80]). SpO2 should be measured using either the earlobe or forehead during the 6MWT in patients with SSc. Clinical Trials.Gov (NCT04650659).
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Lynggaard Elkjær
- The Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens, Boulevard 59, 8200, Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Esben Uggerby Næser
- The Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens, Boulevard 59, 8200, Aarhus N, Denmark.
- The Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 91, 8200, Aarhus N, Denmark.
| | - Katja Thorup Aaen
- The Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens, Boulevard 59, 8200, Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Henrik Lynge Hovgaard
- The Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens, Boulevard 99, 8200, Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Peter Juhl-Olsen
- The Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens, Boulevard 99, 8200, Aarhus N, Denmark
- The Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 91, 8200, Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Elisabeth Bendstrup
- The Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 91, 8200, Aarhus N, Denmark
- The Department of Respiratory Diseases and Allergy, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens, Boulevard 99, 8200, Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Klaus Søndergaard
- The Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens, Boulevard 59, 8200, Aarhus N, Denmark
- The Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 91, 8200, Aarhus N, Denmark
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12
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Ün EŞ, Pekel G, Tasci M, Bahar A, Pekel E, Cetin EN, Subasi M, Cobankara V. Thickness of anterior sclera and corneal layers in systemic sclerosis. Int Ophthalmol 2024; 44:137. [PMID: 38489070 DOI: 10.1007/s10792-024-03013-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/29/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the thickness of anterior sclera and corneal layers in patients with systemic sclerosis. METHODS The present cross-sectional study included 41 patients with systemic sclerosis and 41 age- and gender-matched healthy controls. The study and control groups were compared in terms of the thickness of anterior sclera, corneal epithelium, Bowman's layer, corneal stroma, and Descemet's membrane-endothelium complex. The thickness measurements were obtained using the anterior segment module of spectral-domain optical coherence tomography. RESULTS The thickness of anterior sclera, corneal epithelium, Bowman's layer, and Descemet's membrane-endothelium complex were similar in the patients with systemic sclerosis and healthy controls (P > 0.05). Total corneal thickness at the apex was 511.1 ± 33.5 µm in the systemic sclerosis group and 528.4 ± 29.5 µm in the control group (P = 0.015). The corneal stroma was thinner in the systemic sclerosis patients compared to the healthy controls (P = 0.02). CONCLUSIONS The corneal stroma was thinner in the patients with systemic sclerosis compared to that of healthy controls, while the thickness of the anterior sclera was similar in both groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emine Şeker Ün
- Ophthalmology Department, Pamukkale University, 20070, Denizli, Turkey.
| | - Gökhan Pekel
- Ophthalmology Department, Pamukkale University, 20070, Denizli, Turkey
| | - Murat Tasci
- Rheumatology Division, İzzet Baysal Training and Research Hospital, Bolu, Turkey
| | | | - Evre Pekel
- Denizli State Hospital, Eye Clinic, Denizli, Turkey
| | - Ebru Nevin Cetin
- Ophthalmology Department, Pamukkale University, 20070, Denizli, Turkey
| | - Mustafa Subasi
- Ophthalmology Department, Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Veli Cobankara
- Rheumatology Division, Pamukkale University, Denizli, Turkey
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13
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Morrisroe K, Hansen D, Stevens W, Ross L, Sahhar J, Ngian GS, Hill C, Host L, Walker J, Proudman S, Nikpour M. Predictors and prognosis of pulmonary hypertension complicating interstitial lung disease in systemic sclerosis. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2024:keae166. [PMID: 38471118 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keae166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Revised: 01/21/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify those with concurrent pulmonary hypertension (PH) and interstitial lung disease (ILD) in systemic sclerosis (SSc) and determine their disease severity, therapeutic approach, and survival. METHODS Consecutive SSc patients enrolled in the Australian Scleroderma Cohort Study (ASCS) who were diagnosed on right heart catherisation with pulmonary hypertension were included. Logistic regression was used to determine the associations of ILD with PH hemodynamic parameters and therapeutic approach. Kaplan-Meier survival curves were used to estimate survival. RESULTS Of 1,883 SSc patients, 164 (8.7%) developed incident PH over a median follow up of 4.3 (1.7-7.9) years. Of these, 43.9% had concurrent ILD at PH diagnosis (PH-ILD) and 56.1% had Group 1 PAH. Extensive ILD was present at PH diagnosis in 40.3%. Despite these distinct PH cohorts, a similar frequency of each PH cohort was treated with vasodilatory therapy at PH diagnosis, regardless of the presence or severity of ILD. The majority (87.5%) of those with extensive ILD and PH received upfront vasodilatory therapy at PH diagnosis with no difference in its tolerability or therapy cessation compared with Group 1 PAH. Although vasodilator therapy was not associated with a survival advantage in those with extensive ILD, its use was associated with an improvement in symptoms, physical function, and quality of life (QoL). CONCLUSION Despite vasodilator therapy, survival in SSc-PH is poor, with the presence of concurrent ILD associated with worse survival. Although vasodilator therapy commenced at PH diagnosis does not portray an improved survival in PH with extensive ILD, it appears well tolerated and may improve symptoms, physical function, and QoL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen Morrisroe
- Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne at St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Rheumatology St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Dylan Hansen
- Department of Rheumatology St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Wendy Stevens
- Department of Rheumatology St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Laura Ross
- Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne at St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Rheumatology St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Joanne Sahhar
- Department of Medicine, Monash University, Clayton and Monash Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Gene-Siew Ngian
- Department of Medicine, Monash University, Clayton and Monash Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Catherine Hill
- Rheumatology Unit, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, SA Australia
- Rheumatology Unit, The Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Woodville, SA 5011, Australia
- Discipline of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Lauren Host
- Department of Rheumatology, Royal Perth Hospital, Perth, Australia
| | - Jennifer Walker
- Rheumatology Unit, Flinders Medical Centre, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Susanna Proudman
- Rheumatology Unit, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, SA Australia
- Discipline of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Mandana Nikpour
- Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne at St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Rheumatology St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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14
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Channick R, Chin KM, McLaughlin VV, Lammi MR, Zamanian RT, Turricchia S, Ong R, Mitchell L, Kim NH. Macitentan in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension Associated with Connective Tissue Disease (CTD-PAH): Real-World Evidence from the Combined OPUS/OrPHeUS Dataset. Cardiol Ther 2024:10.1007/s40119-024-00361-w. [PMID: 38451426 DOI: 10.1007/s40119-024-00361-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Data on real-world clinical practice and outcomes of patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension associated with connective tissue disease (CTD-PAH) are scarce. The OPUS/OrPHeUS studies enrolled patients newly initiating macitentan, including those with CTD-PAH. This analysis describes patient characteristics, treatment patterns, outcomes, and safety profiles of patients with CTD-PAH newly initiating macitentan in the US using the OPUS/OrPHeUS combined dataset. METHODS OPUS was a prospective, US, multicenter, long-term, observational drug registry (April 2014-June 2020). OrPHeUS was a retrospective, US, multicenter medical chart review (October 2013-March 2017). The characteristics, treatment patterns, safety, and outcomes during macitentan treatment of patients with CTD-PAH and its subgroups systemic sclerosis (SSc-PAH), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE-PAH), and mixed CTD (MCTD-PAH) were descriptively compared to patients with idiopathic/heritable PAH (I/HPAH). RESULTS The combined OPUS/OrPHeUS population included 2498 patients with I/HPAH and 1192 patients with CTD-PAH (708 SSc-PAH; 159 SLE-PAH; 124 MCTD-PAH, and 201 other CTD-PAH etiologies). At macitentan initiation for patients with I/HPAH and CTD-PAH, respectively: 61.2 and 69.3% were in World Health Organization functional class (WHO FC) III/IV; median 6-min walk distance was 289 and 279 m; and 58.1 and 65.2% received macitentan as combination therapy. During follow-up, for patients with I/HPAH and CTD-PAH, respectively: median duration of macitentan exposure observed was 14.0 and 15.8 months; 79.0 and 83.0% experienced an adverse event; Kaplan-Meier estimates (95% confidence limits [CL]) of patients free from all-cause hospitalization at 1 year were 60.3% (58.1, 62.4) and 59.3% (56.1, 62.3); and Kaplan-Meier estimates (95% CL) of survival at 1 year were 90.5% (89.1, 91.7) and 90.6% (88.6, 92.3). CONCLUSIONS Macitentan was used in clinical practice in patients with CTD-PAH and its subgroups, including as combination therapy. The safety and tolerability profile of macitentan in patients with CTD-PAH was comparable to that of patients with I/HPAH. TRIAL REGISTRATION OPsumit® Users Registry (OPUS): NCT02126943; Opsumit® Historical Users cohort (OrPHeUS): NCT03197688; www. CLINICALTRIALS gov Graphical abstract available for this article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Channick
- David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, UCLA, 37-131 CHS, 10833 Le Conte Ave, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | - Stefano Turricchia
- Actelion Pharmaceuticals Ltd, a Johnson & Johnson Company, Global Medical Affairs, Allschwil, Switzerland
| | - Rose Ong
- Actelion Pharmaceuticals Ltd, a Johnson & Johnson Company, Global Epidemiology, Allschwil, Switzerland
| | - Lada Mitchell
- Actelion Pharmaceuticals Ltd, a Johnson & Johnson Company, Statistics & Decision Sciences-Medical Affairs and Established Products, Allschwil, Switzerland
| | - Nick H Kim
- University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
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15
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Faber AM, Krieg T, Hunzelmann N. [Systemic sclerosis]. Dermatologie (Heidelb) 2024; 75:181-196. [PMID: 38366245 DOI: 10.1007/s00105-024-05298-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a very heterogeneous, chronic, rare, but socioeconomically important disease with a severe disease course and severe impairment of the quality of life of affected patients. OBJECTIVES Overview of the current state of research on the pathogenesis, diagnosis and therapy of SSc. METHODS A literature search was performed. RESULTS The pathogenesis of SSc is not fully understood. ACR/EULAR criteria allow the diagnosis of early forms of SSc. Classification into limited cutaneous SSc and diffuse cutaneous SSc is of prognostic and therapeutic relevance. New organ-specific treatment options for SSc have led to improved quality of life and prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- A-M Faber
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Dermatologie und Venerologie, Universität zu Köln, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937, Köln, Deutschland.
| | - T Krieg
- Translational Matrix Biology, Medizinische Fakultät, Universität zu Köln, Köln, Deutschland
| | - N Hunzelmann
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Dermatologie und Venerologie, Universität zu Köln, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937, Köln, Deutschland
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16
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Stronati G, Guerra F, Benfaremo D, Dichiara C, Paolini F, Bastianoni G, Brugiatelli L, Alfieri M, Compagnucci P, Dello Russo A, Moroncini G. Speckle-tracking global longitudinal strain predicts death and cardiovascular events in patients with systemic sclerosis. Eur Heart J Open 2024; 4:oeae023. [PMID: 38645408 PMCID: PMC11032194 DOI: 10.1093/ehjopen/oeae023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Revised: 03/03/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024]
Abstract
Aims Albeit often asymptomatic, heart involvement in systemic sclerosis (SSc) represents a negative prognostic factor, accounting for nearly one-fourth of all deaths. Global longitudinal strain (GLS) is accurate in detecting heart involvement in patients with SSc and no overt cardiac disease and allows early detection and longitudinal monitoring, but its association with clinical endpoints has not been tested so far. The primary outcome was the association between left and right GLS and mortality for all causes. The secondary outcome was the association between left and right GLS and hospitalizations. Methods and results A prospective longitudinal study enrolling all consecutive patients with SSc without structural heart disease or previous cardiovascular event.A total of 164 patients were enrolled, of whom 19 (11.5%) died during follow-up and 48 (29.3%) were hospitalized. Both left (LV) and right ventricle (RV) GLS at enrolment were independently associated with an increased risk of death for all causes and hospitalizations. Patients with biventricular GLS impairment, respectively, had a 4.2-, 4.9-, and 13.9-fold increased risk of death when compared with patients with only LV, only RV, or no impairment (P < 0.001). The incidence of hospitalization in patients with biventricular GLS impairment was nearly four times higher when compared with patients with only LV or only RV impairment, and nine times higher when compared with normal biventricular GLS (P < 0.001). Conclusion Biventricular GLS is associated with an increased risk of death and hospitalization in patients with SSc during a median of 3-year follow-up, acting as a reliable and accurate prognostic tool in everyday practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Stronati
- Cardiology and Arrhythmology Clinic, Marche Polytechnic University, Marche University Hospital, Via Conca 71, Ancona 60126, Italy
| | - Federico Guerra
- Cardiology and Arrhythmology Clinic, Marche Polytechnic University, Marche University Hospital, Via Conca 71, Ancona 60126, Italy
| | - Devis Benfaremo
- Clinica Medica, Marche Polytechnic University, Marche University Hospital, Via Conca 71, Ancona 60126, Italy
| | - Cristina Dichiara
- Internal Medicine Residency Programme, Marche Polytechnic University, Via Conca 71, Ancona 60126, Italy
| | - Federico Paolini
- Cardiology and Arrhythmology Clinic, Marche Polytechnic University, Marche University Hospital, Via Conca 71, Ancona 60126, Italy
| | - Gianmarco Bastianoni
- Cardiology and Arrhythmology Clinic, Marche Polytechnic University, Marche University Hospital, Via Conca 71, Ancona 60126, Italy
| | - Leonardo Brugiatelli
- Cardiology and Arrhythmology Clinic, Marche Polytechnic University, Marche University Hospital, Via Conca 71, Ancona 60126, Italy
| | - Michele Alfieri
- Cardiology and Arrhythmology Clinic, Marche Polytechnic University, Marche University Hospital, Via Conca 71, Ancona 60126, Italy
| | - Paolo Compagnucci
- Cardiology and Arrhythmology Clinic, Marche Polytechnic University, Marche University Hospital, Via Conca 71, Ancona 60126, Italy
| | - Antonio Dello Russo
- Cardiology and Arrhythmology Clinic, Marche Polytechnic University, Marche University Hospital, Via Conca 71, Ancona 60126, Italy
| | - Gianluca Moroncini
- Clinica Medica, Marche Polytechnic University, Marche University Hospital, Via Conca 71, Ancona 60126, Italy
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Choi AK, Rapoport CS, Kwakkenbos L, Carrier ME, Gottesman K, Roesch SC, Harel D, Thombs BD, Malcarne VL. Measurement equivalence of the English and French versions of the self-efficacy to manage chronic disease scale: a Scleroderma Patient-Centered Intervention Network (SPIN) study. Qual Life Res 2024; 33:843-851. [PMID: 38191792 DOI: 10.1007/s11136-023-03571-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE The Self-Efficacy to Manage Chronic Disease (SEMCD) scale is widely used, including in systemic sclerosis (SSc). The SEMCD has been validated in SSc, but the metric equivalence of the English and French versions has not been assessed (i.e., whether psychometric properties are equivalent across English and French). METHODS Participants were adults from the Scleroderma Patient-Centered Intervention Network (SPIN) Cohort (N = 2159) who completed baseline measures in English (n = 1473) or French (n = 686) between May 2014 to July 2020. Analyses assessed internal consistency reliability via Cronbach's alpha and McDonald's omega, convergent validity via Pearson's correlations, structural validity via confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), and differential item functioning via the Multiple-Indicator Multiple-Cause (MIMIC) model. RESULTS Internal consistency reliability was high in English (α = .93, ω = .93) and French (α = .92, ω = .93). All correlations between the SEMCD and measures of health outcomes were moderate to large, statistically significant, and in the hypothesized direction in both languages. The CFA demonstrated that the one-factor model of self-efficacy, overall, fit reasonably well (CFI = .96, TLI = .93, SRMR = .03, RMSEA = .14). Standardized factor loadings were large (.76 to .88). Three items displayed statistically significant uniform DIF and all six displayed nonuniform DIF; all DIF was of minimal magnitude. Comparison of unadjusted and DIF-adjusted models indicated that DIF did not meaningfully impact total score (ICC = 0.999, r = 0.999). CONCLUSION Scores from English- and French-speaking adults with SSc can be combined for analysis or compared.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alyssa K Choi
- San Diego State University/University of California San Diego, 6363 Alvarado Court, Suite 103, San Diego, CA, 92120-4913, USA
| | - Chelsea S Rapoport
- San Diego State University/University of California San Diego, 6363 Alvarado Court, Suite 103, San Diego, CA, 92120-4913, USA
| | - Linda Kwakkenbos
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Radboud University Behavioural Science Institute, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Marie-Eve Carrier
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | | | - Scott C Roesch
- San Diego State University/University of California San Diego, 6363 Alvarado Court, Suite 103, San Diego, CA, 92120-4913, USA
- Department of Psychology, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Daphna Harel
- Department of Applied Statistics, Social Science, and Humanities, New York University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Brett D Thombs
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Vanessa L Malcarne
- San Diego State University/University of California San Diego, 6363 Alvarado Court, Suite 103, San Diego, CA, 92120-4913, USA.
- Department of Psychology, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, USA.
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Bandini G, Alunno A, Oliveira Pinheiro F, Campochiaro C, Galetti I, Matucci Cerinic P, Ruaro B, Moggi Pignone A, Bellando Randone S, Dagna L, Matucci Cerinic M, McMahan ZH, Hughes M. A multi-national survey to identify clinicians' perspectives concerning Proton Pump inhibitors in patients with systemic sclerosis. Semin Arthritis Rheum 2024; 67:152419. [PMID: 38430623 DOI: 10.1016/j.semarthrit.2024.152419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) are widely used in SSc for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). However, there is little evidence to support their empirical use and long-term safety has been questioned. Our objective was to better describe clinicians' attitudes toward PPIs prescription and use in SSc patients. METHODS Clinicians involved in the care of SSc patients were invited through international physician networks and social media to participate in an online survey. RESULTS Responses from 227 clinicians from 36 countries were evaluable. The majority 'agreed' (41.4 %) or 'strongly agreed' (45.4 %) that GERD is a major cause of morbidity in SSc. Lifestyle modifications are seldom (16 %) considered effective. Only half 'agreed' (43 %) or 'strongly agreed' (11 %) there is solid evidence supporting PPIs efficacy in SSc. The most common reasons for PPIs prescription were symptomatic GERD unresponsive to lifestyle modification (95 %), objective evidence of GERD (82 %), and hoarseness or respiratory symptoms (71 %). There are variable concerns about PPIs long-term safety in SSc. The three highest (mean) reasons (0-10, here 10 is 'very concerned') were: small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (5.5), osteoporosis (5.4), and drug interactions (5.2). There are significant differences in attitudes towards surgery for refractory GERD, and concerns about potential complications. PPIs may have a putative role for disease modification (e.g., ILD and calcinosis), and the role of immunosuppression is uncertain for GI (gastrointestinal) disease in SSc. CONCLUSION PPIs are frequently prescribed in SSc. Side effects are a recognized concern, especially regarding long-term therapy. There is significant variation in attitudes towards surgical intervention. Future research and practical treatment recommendation for PPIs in SSc are urgently needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Bandini
- University of Florence, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Division of Internal Medicine, AOUC, Firenze, Italy
| | - Alessia Alunno
- University of L'Aquila, Department of Clinical Medicine, Life, Health, and Environmental Sciences, Internal Medicine and Nephrology Division, ASL1 Avezzano-Sulmona-L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | | | - Corrado Campochiaro
- IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Unit of Immunology, Rheumatology, Allergy and Rare diseases (UnIRAR), Milan, Italy
| | - Ilaria Galetti
- FESCA (Federation of European Scleroderma Associations) Belgium, GILS (Gruppo Italiano, Lotta alla Sclerodermia), Italy
| | - Pietro Matucci Cerinic
- University of Udine, Division of Surgery and Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Udine, Italy
| | - Barbara Ruaro
- Pulmonology Unit, Department of Medical Surgical and Health Sciences, University Hospital of Cattinara, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Alberto Moggi Pignone
- University of Florence, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Division of Internal Medicine, AOUC, Firenze, Italy
| | - Silvia Bellando Randone
- University of Florence, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Firenze, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Dagna
- IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Unit of Immunology, Rheumatology, Allergy and Rare diseases (UnIRAR), Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Matucci Cerinic
- IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Unit of Immunology, Rheumatology, Allergy and Rare diseases (UnIRAR), Milan, Italy; University of Florence, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Firenze, Italy
| | - Zsuzsanna H McMahan
- University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Michael Hughes
- Northern Care Alliance NHS Foundation Trust, Salford Care Organisation, Salford, UK; Division of Musculoskeletal and Dermatological Sciences, The University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK.
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Sandri G, Spinella A, Sartini S, Caselgrandi F, Schiavi M, Bettelli V, Gherardini F, Amati G, Lumetti F, Mascia MT, Secchi O, Giuggioli D. Assessing hand grasp in patients with systemic sclerosis using the 16-grasp test: Preliminary results from a multidisciplinary study group. J Hand Ther 2024:S0894-1130(23)00140-0. [PMID: 38342637 DOI: 10.1016/j.jht.2023.09.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 02/13/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Reports on hand dysfunction and rehabilitation in SSc are quite scarce in the literature and mainly focus on functional assessment tools, such as the Duruoz Hand Index and the HAMIS test for evaluating hand mobility by simulating specific grasps with nine different objects. PURPOSE OF THE STUDY This study aimed to provide an adequate assessment methodology for hand grasp dysfunctions in patients suffering from systemic sclerosis (SSc) through the 16-grasp test. STUDY DESIGN Case-control study. METHODS Ninety-seven consecutive SSc patients were recruited at our Scleroderma Unit, where a 16-grasp test was performed by all patients and supervised by an experienced hand therapist. Sixteen different patterns of grasp have been divided into power grasps and precision pinch and two more modalities: static and dynamic prehension evaluation on scale from 0 to 4. We also compared previous evaluations on 19 of patients recruited. RESULTS The majority of SSc patients (84 females and 13 males; mean age 56.0±12.0 years; mean disease duration 8.0±6.0 years) displayed grasp dysfunctions; in particular 48% and 54% reported slight difficulty in the right and left grasps respectively, 6% medium difficulty in both hands, and only 3% and 1% experienced severe difficulty respectively, while 31.5% had no issues in either hand. Our results showed that the limited cutaneous subset (lcSSc) scored a lower deficit for either grasp compared to diffuse form (dcSSc). No statistically significant differences in total grasp deficit had been noticed when comparing patients having a disease duration < 5 years or longer. In the retrospective study on 19 of these patients, 8 out of 10 lcSSc patients showed no significant changes, while in 2 out of 10, slight improvements were observed in both hands. However, in the dcSSc group, 4 out of 9 worsened bilaterally while the grasp scores for 5 of them remained unchanged. CONCLUSION Our study reported hand involvement in both lcSSc and dcSSc forms, more significantly in dcSSc patients. This test is intended to be a more objective means of assessing grasp alterations linked to scleroderma hand deformities. Furthermore, thanks to its intuitiveness, the test may be useful for engineers designing personalized ergonomic assistive devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gilda Sandri
- Scleroderma Unit, Rheumatology Unit, University Hospital of Modena, Policlinico of Modena, Modena, Italy; Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences of Children and Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.
| | - Amelia Spinella
- Scleroderma Unit, Rheumatology Unit, University Hospital of Modena, Policlinico of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Silvana Sartini
- Head of IOR-Argenta Rehabilitation Unit, IRCCS Rizzoli Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Francesco Caselgrandi
- Hand Rehabilitation Unit, University Hospital of Modena, Policlinico of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Margherita Schiavi
- Department of Health Professions, Azienda USL - IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Valentina Bettelli
- Rehabilitation Medicine, University Hospital of Modena, Baggiovara, Modena, Italy
| | - Francesco Gherardini
- Department of Engineering "Enzo Ferrari", University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Gabriele Amati
- Scleroderma Unit, Rheumatology Unit, University Hospital of Modena, Policlinico of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Federica Lumetti
- Scleroderma Unit, Rheumatology Unit, University Hospital of Modena, Policlinico of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Maria Terasa Mascia
- Scleroderma Unit, Rheumatology Unit, University Hospital of Modena, Policlinico of Modena, Modena, Italy; Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences of Children and Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Ottavio Secchi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences of Children and Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Dilia Giuggioli
- Scleroderma Unit, Rheumatology Unit, University Hospital of Modena, Policlinico of Modena, Modena, Italy; Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences of Children and Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
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Yu Y, Liang C, Tang Q, Shi Y, Shen L. Characteristics of n6-methyladenosine (m6A) regulators and role of FTO/TNC in scleroderma. Gene 2024; 894:147989. [PMID: 37972699 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2023.147989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND m6A regulators have important roles in a variety of autoimmune diseases, but their potential function in scleroderma, a refractory connective tissue disease, remains unclear. Tenascin C (TNC) is known to be a factor promoting collagen deposition in the development of scleroderma, but the regulatory relationship between TNC and m6A regulators is unknown. METHODS We extracted GSE33463 data consisting of forty-one healthy controls and sixty-one patients with scleroderma, and we analyzed the expression levels of twenty-one m6A regulators as well as the associations between them. In addition, we obtained random forest (RF) and nomogram models to predict the likehood of scleroderma. Next, we categorized the m6Aclusters and geneclusters by consensus clustering, and we performed an immune cell infiltration analysis for each cluster. Finally, we injected adenoviruses into a bleomycin (BLM)-induced mouse model of scleroderma, which was used to overexpress FTO and TNC. We assess the extent of skin fibrosis in the mice samples using pathology stains and measuring their hydroxyproline content and collagen mRNA. RESULTS We initially identified fourteen differentially expressed m6A regulators (WTAP, RBM15, CBLL1, FTO, ALKBH5, YTHDC1, YTHDC2, YTHDF1, YTHDF2, YTHDF3, RBMX, HNRNPC, IGFBP1 and IGFBP2). We found ALKBH5 to be positively associated with CBLL1 and RBM15, and FTO to be negatively associated with WTAP. In addition, we identified four m6A regulators (CBLL1, IGFBP1, YTHDF2 and IGFBP2) using a RF model, and we designed a nomogram model with those variables that proved reliable according to the calibration curve and clinical impact curve. We found that the m6Acluster A was correlated with Type 1 T helper cell infiltration and the genecluster A was correlated with regulatory T cell infiltration. Finally, we showed that FTO overexpression downregulated the m6A and mRNA levels of TNC, and alleviated skin fibrosis in the mouse model of scleroderma. Thus, our overexpression experiments provide preliminary evidence suggesting that TNC is an adverse factor in scleroderma. CONCLUSION Our approach might be useful as a new and accurate scleroderma diagnosis method. Moreover, our results suggested that FTO/TNC might be a novel scleroderma therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Yu
- Department of Dermatology, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chen Liang
- Department of Dermatology, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qinyu Tang
- Department of Dermatology, The Affiliated Changzhou Second People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou, China
| | - Yuling Shi
- Department of Dermatology, Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China; Institute of Psoriasis, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Liangliang Shen
- Department of Dermatology, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China.
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Akatay EA, Bayraktar D, Otman E, Ustun O, Kurut Aysin I, Sarac DC, Atalay B, Ramazanoglu I, Tekin I, Kurum T, Gucenmez S, Ozmen M, Akar S. Investigating performance-based hand functions in patients with systemic sclerosis. Z Rheumatol 2024; 83:183-190. [PMID: 36074183 DOI: 10.1007/s00393-022-01267-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a connective tissue disorder characterized by collagen deposits in various organs. Skin involvement is one of the most common symptoms and along with vascular damage, may deteriorate hand functions. However, the status of hand functions has generally been investigated using patient-reported measures in patients with SSc. The aim of the present study was to investigate performance-based hand functions in patients with SSc using the Sollerman Hand Function Test (SHFT). METHODS A total of 39 patients with SSc (33 females) were included in the study. Twenty-four patients were classified as limited cutaneous SSc (lcSSc), while 15 patients were classified as diffuse cutaneous SSc (dcSSc). Hand-related physical characteristics were evaluated using the Modified Hand Mobility in Scleroderma Test, grip strength, and pinch strengths. The Duruoz Hand Index (Cochin Hand Functional Disability Scale), Disability of Arm, Shoulder, and Hand Questionnaire, Health Assessment Questionnaire, and Scleroderma Health Assessment Questionnaire were used as patient-reported measures. Performance-based hand functions were evaluated using SHFT. RESULTS No significant differences were observed between lcSSc and dcSSc subtypes regarding performance-based and patient-reported hand functions (p > 0.05). SHFT scores significantly correlated with hand-related physical characteristics and patient-reported hand functions (p < 0.05). The highest correlation was determined between SHFT and the Duruoz Hand Index (rho: -0.652, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION According to our results, performance-based hand functions seem not to be affected by disease subtype. Performance-based hand functions may partially be captured by the patient-reported outcomes, especially the Duruoz Hand Index, in patients with SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emre Alp Akatay
- Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Institute of Health Sciences, Izmir Katip Celebi University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Deniz Bayraktar
- Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health Sciences, Izmir Katip Celebi University, Izmir, Turkey.
| | - Eda Otman
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Izmir Katip Celebi University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Oguz Ustun
- Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Institute of Health Sciences, Izmir Katip Celebi University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Idil Kurut Aysin
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Izmir Katip Celebi University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Devrim Can Sarac
- Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health Sciences, Izmir Katip Celebi University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Busranur Atalay
- Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health Sciences, Izmir Katip Celebi University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Irem Ramazanoglu
- Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health Sciences, Izmir Katip Celebi University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Ilyas Tekin
- Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health Sciences, Izmir Katip Celebi University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Tugba Kurum
- Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health Sciences, Izmir Katip Celebi University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Sercan Gucenmez
- Rheumatology Clinic, Ataturk Training and Research Hospital, Izmir Katip Celebi University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Mustafa Ozmen
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Izmir Katip Celebi University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Servet Akar
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Izmir Katip Celebi University, Izmir, Turkey
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Joyce E, Wigley FM, Hummers LK, Paik JJ. Myositis mimics in scleroderma: A case series of neuromuscular diseases that can co-exist in scleroderma. J Scleroderma Relat Disord 2024; 9:NP12-NP15. [PMID: 38333529 PMCID: PMC10848932 DOI: 10.1177/23971983231197442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
We present a case series of four patients with systemic sclerosis and skeletal myopathy. While idiopathic inflammatory myopathies, or myositis, are thought to be the most common type of muscle disease seen in systemic sclerosis, we highlight four cases where unique clinical findings and careful assessment ruled out myositis mimics. Key diagnostic tools that can be helpful for clinicians to diagnose a neuromuscular disease are also detailed in this report.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Joyce
- Department of Community Health, School of Arts and Sciences, Tufts University, Medford, MA, USA
| | - Fredrick M Wigley
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Laura K Hummers
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Julie J Paik
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Abstract
E. Carwile LeRoy, M.D. was a pioneer in the study of systemic sclerosis (SSc, scleroderma). His early medical training was strongly influenced by notable clinical investigators including Dr Kenneth Brinkhous, Dr Charles Christian and Dr Albert Sjoerdsma. Dr LeRoy is remembered for his seminal observations on the over-production of collagen by scleroderma fibroblasts and for his vascular hypothesis on the pathogenesis of scleroderma. The Division of Rheumatology & Immunology at the Medical University of South Carolina, established by Dr LeRoy, is world renowned for its clinical and translational studies of scleroderma and has produced many of the leaders in the international scleroderma community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard M Silver
- Division of Rheumatology & Immunology, Medical University of South Carolina, 96 Jonathan Lucas Street, Suite 822, Charleston, SC 29425, USA.
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24
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Silver RM. Paul Klee's progressive dyspnea: A series of historical and clinical vignettes, part V. J Scleroderma Relat Disord 2024; 9:3-6. [PMID: 38333527 PMCID: PMC10848924 DOI: 10.1177/23971983231213140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/22/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
Paul Klee (1879-1940), the 20th-century Swiss-German artist, suffered and died from complications of systemic sclerosis (SSc, scleroderma). This is the fifth in a series of clinical and historical vignettes wherein Klee's cardiopulmonary symptoms are described with an emphasis on how progressive dyspnea impacted Klee's life.
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Cosedis Enevoldsen F, Therkildsen J, Klose-Jensen R, Lynggaard Elkjær A, Uggerby Næser E, Klicman RF, Thorup Aaen K, Søndergaard KH, Hauge EM. High-resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography for the assessment of acro-osteolysis and calcinosis in patients with systemic sclerosis. Joint Bone Spine 2024; 91:105699. [PMID: 38309517 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbspin.2024.105699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/05/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assist the development of future treatments in systemic sclerosis (SSc), the development of reliable outcome measures is pivotal. We aimed to evaluate the use of high-resolution peripheral quantitative CT (HR-pQCT) for visualization and gradation of acro-osteolysis (AO) and calcinosis compared to conventional hand radiographs (CR) in patients with SSc. METHODS HR-pQCT scans of the 2nd to 4th fingers, CR, nail fold capillaroscopy, and a clinical examination were conducted. Images were reviewed for the presence and degree of AO and calcinosis according to semiquantitative grading scales. RESULTS Forty patients were included. Fourteen had AO according to CR, whereas HR-pQCT revealed AO in 18 patients. The sensitivity and specificity of classifying patients as having AO by HR-pQCT when CR was used as reference were 93% (95% CI: 66-99%) and 80% (95% CI: 59-93%), respectively. By CR and with HR-pQCT as reference, the sensitivity and specificity were 72% (95% CI: 47-90%) and 95% (95% CI: 76-99%). Patients with AO had more or larger calcifications than patients without AO according to the proposed HR-pQCT grading system, with a median grade of 2 (IQR: 1-3) versus 0 (IQR: 0-1) (P<0.01). Grade 3 changes were observed exclusively in patients with AO (n=6/14, 42.9%). Assessment of AO and calcinosis by HR-pQCT demonstrated moderate to excellent test-retest reliability. CONCLUSION HR-pQCT allowed precise and reliable classification and grading of acro-osteolysis and acral calcinosis. The modality could prove helpful for detecting and monitoring these lesions as well as facilitating early diagnosis and guide treatment of these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frederik Cosedis Enevoldsen
- Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, 8200 Aarhus N, Central Denmark Region, Denmark.
| | - Josephine Therkildsen
- Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, 8200 Aarhus N, Central Denmark Region, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, 8200 Aarhus N, Central Denmark Region, Denmark
| | - Rasmus Klose-Jensen
- Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, 8200 Aarhus N, Central Denmark Region, Denmark
| | - Amanda Lynggaard Elkjær
- Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, 8200 Aarhus N, Central Denmark Region, Denmark
| | - Esben Uggerby Næser
- Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, 8200 Aarhus N, Central Denmark Region, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, 8200 Aarhus N, Central Denmark Region, Denmark
| | - Rikke Fuglsang Klicman
- Department of Radiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, 8200 Aarhus N, Central Denmark Region, Denmark
| | - Katja Thorup Aaen
- Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, 8200 Aarhus N, Central Denmark Region, Denmark
| | - Klaus Henrik Søndergaard
- Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, 8200 Aarhus N, Central Denmark Region, Denmark
| | - Ellen-Margrethe Hauge
- Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, 8200 Aarhus N, Central Denmark Region, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, 8200 Aarhus N, Central Denmark Region, Denmark
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Hui M, Wang X, Zhou J, Zhang L, Duan X, Li M, Wang Q, Zhao J, Hou Y, Xu D, Zeng X. Systemic sclerosis patients with negative antinuclear antibodies have distinctive clinical manifestations: a multicenter CRDC cohort in China. Z Rheumatol 2024; 83:160-166. [PMID: 35852599 DOI: 10.1007/s00393-022-01242-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The presence of circulating antinuclear antibodies (ANAs) is a hallmark of immune dysregulation in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc). OBJECTIVE A variety of ANAs are associated with unique sets of disease manifestations and are widely used in clinical practice in SSc. This study aimed to investigate the clinical features of SSc patients negative for ANAs in a Chinese Rheumatism Data Center (CRDC) multicenter cohort in China. METHODS Patients were prospectively recruited between April 2008 and June 2019 from 154 clinical centers nationwide, and all cases fulfilled the 2013 ACR/EULAR classification criteria for systemic sclerosis. Results for antinuclear antibodies were intensively collected. Demographic, clinical, and laboratory data were compared between ANA-positive SSc patients and those negative for ANAs. RESULTS Antinuclear antibodies were detected in 2129 of 2809 patients enrolled in the study; 4.2% of patients were negative. There were more males among ANA-negative SSc patients (29/60 vs. 294/1746, p < 0.001). The incidence of certain critical organ involvement, including gastroesophageal reflux (5.6% vs. 18.5%, p = 0.002), interstitial lung disease (65.2% vs. 77.9%, p = 0.015), and pulmonary arterial hypertension (11.5% vs. 29.0%, p = 0.006) was significantly lower in ANA-negative patients than in ANA-positive patients. The proportion of abnormal erythrocyte sedimentation rate (32.4% vs. 47.6%, p = 0.013) and IgG elevation (14.3% vs. 37.0%, p = 0.003), an indicator of disease activity, was significantly lower in ANA-negative patients than in ANA-positive patients. CONCLUSION Antinuclear antibodies are strongly associated with the clinical manifestations of systemic sclerosis, with ANA-negative SSc patients tending to exhibit relatively milder disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Hui
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Ministry of Education, No. 1 Shuaifuyuan, Dongcheng District, 100730, Beijing, China
| | - Xianbin Wang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, the Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, 20 Yuhuangding East Road, Zhifu District, 264000, Yantai, Shandong, China
| | - Jiaxin Zhou
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Ministry of Education, No. 1 Shuaifuyuan, Dongcheng District, 100730, Beijing, China
| | - Liyun Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology, ShanXi Bethune Hospital, ShanXi Academy of Medical Sciences, 030000, Shanxi, China
| | - Xinwang Duan
- Department of Rheumatology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Mengtao Li
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Ministry of Education, No. 1 Shuaifuyuan, Dongcheng District, 100730, Beijing, China
| | - Qian Wang
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Ministry of Education, No. 1 Shuaifuyuan, Dongcheng District, 100730, Beijing, China
| | - Jiuliang Zhao
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Ministry of Education, No. 1 Shuaifuyuan, Dongcheng District, 100730, Beijing, China
| | - Yong Hou
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Ministry of Education, No. 1 Shuaifuyuan, Dongcheng District, 100730, Beijing, China
| | - Dong Xu
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Ministry of Education, No. 1 Shuaifuyuan, Dongcheng District, 100730, Beijing, China.
| | - Xiaofeng Zeng
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Ministry of Education, No. 1 Shuaifuyuan, Dongcheng District, 100730, Beijing, China.
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Wurz A, Ellis K, Nordlund J, Carrier ME, Cook V, Gietzen A, Adams C, Nassar EL, Rice DB, Fortune C, Guillot G, Mieszczak T, Richard M, Sauve M, Thombs BD. Researcher and patient experiences of co-presenting research to people living with systemic sclerosis at a patient conference: content analysis of interviews. Res Involv Engagem 2024; 10:13. [PMID: 38281049 PMCID: PMC10822162 DOI: 10.1186/s40900-024-00546-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 01/29/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patient engagement in research is important to ensure research questions address problems important to patients, that research is designed in a way that can effectively answer those questions, and that findings are applicable, relevant, and credible. Yet, patients are rarely involved in the dissemination stage of research. This study explored one way to engage patients in dissemination, through co-presenting research. METHODS Semi-structured, one-on-one, audio-recorded interviews were conducted with researchers and patients who co-presented research at one patient conference (the 2022 Canadian National Scleroderma Conference) in Canada. A pragmatic orientation was adopted, and following verbatim transcription, data were analyzed using conventional content analysis. RESULTS Of 8 researchers who were paired with 7 patients, 5 researchers (mean age = 28 years, SD = 3.6 years) and 5 patients (mean age = 45 years, SD = 14.2 years) participated. Researcher and patient perspectives about their experiences co-presenting and how to improve the experience were captured across 4 main categories: (1) Reasons for accepting the invitation to co-present; (2) Degree that co-presenting expectations were met; (3) The process of co-presenting; and (4) Lessons learned: recommendations for co-presenting. CONCLUSIONS Findings from this study suggest that the co-presenting experience was a rewarding and enjoyable way to tailor research dissemination to patients. We identified a patient-centred approach and meaningful and prolonged patient engagement as essential elements underlying co-presenting success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Wurz
- School of Kinesiology, University of the Fraser Valley, 45190 Caen Ave, Chilliwack, BC, V2R 0N3, Canada.
- Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.
| | - Kelsey Ellis
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Julia Nordlund
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Marie-Eve Carrier
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Vanessa Cook
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Amy Gietzen
- National Scleroderma Foundation, Tri-State Chapter, New York, USA
| | - Claire Adams
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Elsa-Lynn Nassar
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Psychology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Danielle B Rice
- Mood Disorders Treatment and Research Centre, St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | | | | | - Tracy Mieszczak
- Rochester Scleroderma Support Group, National Scleroderma Foundation, New York, USA
| | | | - Maureen Sauve
- Scleroderma Society of Ontario, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Brett D Thombs
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Psychology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics, and Occupational Health, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Biomedical Ethics Unit, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
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Campochiaro C, Allanore Y, Braun-Moscovici Y, Matucci-Cerinic M, Balbir-Gurman A. Is cyclophosphamide still the gold standard in early severe rapidly progressive systemic sclerosis? Autoimmun Rev 2024; 23:103439. [PMID: 37690478 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2023.103439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
Cyclophosphamide (CYC) has been a gold standard of treatment for severe progressive Systemic Sclerosis (SSc), especially in patients with concomitant interstitial lung disease (ILD). This approach was based on results of several interventional studies, including randomized control trials, which mainly addressed SSc-ILD as a primary end point and skin involvement as a second one. The use of CYC is time-limited due to significant adverse events. More recently, other immunosuppressive and biological agents showed efficacy but better safety profile in patients with SSc and SSc-ILD. With regards to other end-points, post-hoc analyses, systematic reviews and metalysis showed that CYC had limited influence on patients' quality of life, event-free survival and mortality. Comprehensive patient's stratification according to a molecular, cellular and phenotypic pattern may help in choosing of personalized medicine with more ambitious treatment effect and should be the future direction. According to the above available data and even if scientific evidence may be missing, experts' opinion has changed the attitude to CYC as an anchor drug in the management of severe SSc. Indeed, CYC has been pushed to the second and even third treatment option after mycophenolate mofetil, tocilizumab or rituximab. This position became obvious during debate on this topic at CORA meeting 2023.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corrado Campochiaro
- IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Unit of Immunology, Rheumatology, Allergy and Rare Diseases; Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Yannick Allanore
- Service de Rhumatologie, Hôpital Cochin, Université de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Yolanda Braun-Moscovici
- Rheumatology Institute, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel; The Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion, Haifa, Israel
| | - Marco Matucci-Cerinic
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Rheumatology, Univercity of Florence, Italy; Unit of Immunology, Rheumatology, Allergy and Rare Diseases; Vita-Salute San Raffaele Univercity, Milan, Italy
| | - Alexandra Balbir-Gurman
- Rheumatology Institute, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel; The Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion, Haifa, Israel.
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von Mühlenbrock C, Madrid AM, Defilippi C, Defilippi C, Soto L. Diffuse Gastrointestinal Motor Compromise in Patients with Scleroderma: Utility of Minimally Invasive Techniques. Dig Dis Sci 2024; 69:191-199. [PMID: 37982941 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-023-08151-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Scleroderma is a systemic inflammatory disorder that can compromise the gastrointestinal tract in up to 90% of patients. AIM The purpose of this work is to characterize esophageal, gastric, and intestinal compromise in patients with scleroderma by means of minimally invasive methods and its association with symptoms and severity of their rheumatological condition. METHODS Patients with systemic sclerosis were recruited according to the criteria of the American College of Rheumatology. The study of digestive involvement was carried out on four consecutive days: esophageal manometry was performed on the first day, intestinal manometry on the second day, surface electrogastrography on the third, and hydrogen breath test on the fourth. The Mann-Whitney test was used for quantitative variables and the chi-squared test for categorical variables (p < 0.05). RESULTS A total of 30 patients were included, with an average age of 52.7 years and 93% women. Average disease evolution duration was 6.5 years, 70% with limited variety. Rodnan averaged 12 points, being higher in the diffuse variety. The main symptom was heartburn, followed by abdominal distension, with no differences between subtypes except for diffuse nausea; 80% had intestinal manometric compromise, 76% esophageal manometric compromise, and 30% electrogastrographic compromise. Bacterial overgrowth was evidenced in two-thirds (66%) of the patients, and 23% of the patients had simultaneous esophageal, gastric, and intestinal involvement, which correlated with greater skin involvement but not with gastrointestinal symptoms. CONCLUSIONS Gastrointestinal involvement in patients with scleroderma is frequent and is observed regardless of the symptoms and clinical characteristics of the latter, except for skin involvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian von Mühlenbrock
- Functional Digestive Diseases and Motility Laboratory, Gastroenterology Section, Hospital Clinico Universidad de Chile, Dr. Carlos Lorca 999, Independencia, Santiago, Chile.
- Internal Medicine Department, Gastroenterology Section, Universidad de los Andes, Av San Carlos de Apoquindo 2200, Las Condes, Santiago de Chile, Chile.
| | - Ana María Madrid
- Functional Digestive Diseases and Motility Laboratory, Gastroenterology Section, Hospital Clinico Universidad de Chile, Dr. Carlos Lorca 999, Independencia, Santiago, Chile
| | - Claudia Defilippi
- Functional Digestive Diseases and Motility Laboratory, Gastroenterology Section, Hospital Clinico Universidad de Chile, Dr. Carlos Lorca 999, Independencia, Santiago, Chile
| | - Carlos Defilippi
- Functional Digestive Diseases and Motility Laboratory, Gastroenterology Section, Hospital Clinico Universidad de Chile, Dr. Carlos Lorca 999, Independencia, Santiago, Chile
| | - Lilian Soto
- Rheumatology Section, Department of Medicine, Hospital Clinico Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
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Pennington Z, Fogelson JL, Krauss WE. Bone but not Bone: Systemic Calcinosis Presenting as Lumbar Facet Pseudohypertrophy with Neurogenic Claudication. World Neurosurg 2023; 180:10-12. [PMID: 37689355 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2023.09.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2023] [Revised: 09/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/11/2023]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis affects 14-21 per million persons annually and can present with calcinosis-deposition in the skin and subcutaneous tissues. In rare circumstances, paraspinal depositions are also seen, which can cause neural element compression requiring surgical intervention. Here we present the case of a 61-year-old woman with systemic sclerosis on goal-directed therapy who presented with neurogenic pseudoclaudication and imaging suggesting severe joint hypertrophy. The case illustrates that calcinosis in scleroderma can cause facet joint pseudohypertrophy that is difficult to distinguish from true hypertrophy on imaging. Such pseudohypertrophy is often refractory to medical therapy, necessitating surgical intervention. Last, owing to the fluid nature of the calcinotic fluid, decompression is often easier than would be expected based on preoperative imaging alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zach Pennington
- Department of Neurosurgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA.
| | | | - William E Krauss
- Department of Neurosurgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
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Campochiaro C, Suliman YA, Hughes M, Schoones JW, Giuggioli D, Moinzadeh P, Baron M, Chung L, Ross L, Maltez N, Allanore Y, Denton CP, Distler O, Frech T, Furst DE, Khanna D, Krieg T, Kuwana M, Matucci-Cerinic M, Pope J, Alunno A. Non-surgical local treatments of digital ulcers in systemic sclerosis: a systematic literature review. Semin Arthritis Rheum 2023; 63:152267. [PMID: 37778090 DOI: 10.1016/j.semarthrit.2023.152267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Digital ulcers (DUs) are difficult to treat in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc) and systemic (i.e., pharmacological) therapy is currently considered the 'standard of care'. Our aim was to examine the safety and efficacy of local, non-surgical treatment for SSc-DUs. METHODS A systematic literature review (SLR) of original research articles up to August, 29 2022 was performed according to the PICO framework. References were independently screened by two reviewers and risk of bias was assed using validated tools. Due to study heterogeneity narrative summaries are used to present data. RESULTS Among 899 retrieved references, 14 articles were included (2 randomised trials (RTs), and 12 observational (OBS) studies). The most frequently studied procedure (5 studies) was botulin A toxin (hand or single finger) injection with a reported healing rate (HR) of 71%-100%. Amniotic and hydrocolloid membranes were examined in one study each and associated with a good HR. Tadalafil 2% cream was studied in a single study with a reduction in the number of DUs. Vitamin E gel was associated with a reduction in ulcer healing time. Low-level light therapy, hydrodissection and corticosteroid injection, extracorporeal shock wave (ESW) and photobiomodulation were evaluated in a single study each and showed a positive trend. Dimethyl sulfoxide was associated with significant local toxicity. CONCLUSIONS A range of non-surgical, local treatments for SSc-DUs have been explored and showed efficacy to some extent. We have identified methodological flaws that should be avoided in the design of future studies to explore locally-acting treatments for SSc-DUs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corrado Campochiaro
- Unit of Immunology, Rheumatology, Allergy and Rare Diseases (UnIRAR), IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University.
| | | | - Michael Hughes
- Division of Musculoskeletal and Dermatological Sciences, The University of Manchester, Northern Care Alliance NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester
| | - Jan W Schoones
- Directorate of Research Policy (formerly Walaeus Library), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | | | | | - Murray Baron
- Jewish General Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Lorinda Chung
- Stanford University School of Medicine and Palo Alto VA Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Laura Ross
- The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | | | | | | | | | - Tracy Frech
- University of Utah, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | | | | | - Thomas Krieg
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | | | | | - Janet Pope
- Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Alessia Alunno
- Department of Life, Health & Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila and Internal Medicine and Nephrology Unit and Department of Medicine, ASL Avezzano-Sulmona-L'Aquila, San Salvatore Hospital, L'Aquila, Italy
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Derbel K, Ben Saad H. Why 43.5% of Brazilian women with systemic sclerosis have an abnormal 6-min walk distance? The implication of parity. Clin Biomech (Bristol, Avon) 2023; 110:106133. [PMID: 37918297 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiomech.2023.106133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Khansa Derbel
- University of Sousse, Faculty of Medicine of Sousse, Farhat HACHED Hospital, Sousse, Research Laboratory «heart failure, LR12SP09", Sousse, Tunisia
| | - Helmi Ben Saad
- University of Sousse, Faculty of Medicine of Sousse, Farhat HACHED Hospital, Sousse, Research Laboratory «heart failure, LR12SP09", Sousse, Tunisia.
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Takao M, Oishi A, Shimizu T, Kuwatsuka Y, Kitaoka T. Paracentral acute middle maculopathy in systemic sclerosis and subsequent branch retinal artery occlusion. Am J Ophthalmol Case Rep 2023; 32:101955. [PMID: 38020208 PMCID: PMC10663736 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajoc.2023.101955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose We report a case of systemic sclerosis-associated paracentral acute middle maculopathy (PAMM) in a young woman who subsequently developed branch retinal artery occlusion. Observations A 22-year-old woman presented with a paracentral scotoma. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) revealed bilateral paracentral acute middle maculopathy. Upon systemic examination, she was diagnosed with systemic sclerosis (SSc). She subsequently developed branch retinal artery occlusion despite vasodilator medications. After the prescription of aspirin, she did not experience a new event for one year. Conclusion and importance This case illustrates that SSc may affect the retinal vascular system and vision and cause PAMM. The optimal prophylaxis for patients with recurrent retinal events should be investigated in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miki Takao
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki, Japan
- Department of Ophthalmology, National Hospital Organization Nagasaki Medical Center, Omura, Japan
| | - Akio Oishi
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Toshimasa Shimizu
- Department of Immunology and Rheumatology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Yutaka Kuwatsuka
- Department of Dermatology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Takashi Kitaoka
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki, Japan
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Suliman YA, Campochiaro C, Hughes M, Schoones JW, Giuggioli D, Moinzadeh P, Baron M, Chung L, Ross L, Maltez N, Allanore Y, Denton CP, Distler O, Frech T, Furst DE, Khanna D, Krieg T, Kuwana M, Matucci-Cerinic M, Pope J, Alunno A. Surgical management of digital ulcers in systemic sclerosis: A systematic literature review. Semin Arthritis Rheum 2023; 63:152266. [PMID: 37826898 DOI: 10.1016/j.semarthrit.2023.152266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2023] [Revised: 09/02/2023] [Accepted: 09/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is a strong rationale to develop locally-acting surgical treatments for digital ulcers (DUs) in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc). Our aim was to examine the safety and efficacy of local surgical management for SSc-DU. METHODS A systematic literature review was carried out until to August 2022 using 7 different databases. Original research studies concerning adult patients with SSc-DUs, and local surgical treatments were analysed using the PICO framework. We included randomized controlled trials, prospective/retrospective studies, and case series (minimum of 3 patients) References were independently screened by two reviewers including assessment of the risk of bias using validated tools. RESULTS Out of 899, 13eligible articles were included. Autologous fat (adipose tissue AT) grafting was the surgical modality most identified (7 studies, 1 randomized controlled double blinded trial and 6 prospective open-label single arm studies). The healing rate (HR) with autologous fat grafting (4 studies) was 66-100 %. Three studies reported autologous adipose-derived stromal vascular fraction grafting: HR of 32-60 %. Bone marrow derived cell transplantation in a single study showed 100 % healing rate over 4-24 weeks. Surgical sympathectomy was examined in 3 studies, prospective without comparator with a median healing rate of 81 %. Two surgical studies (of direct microsurgical revascularisation and microsurgical arteriolysis) showed 100 % healing of ulcers, with no complications. CONCLUSION Several surgical approaches for SSc-DUs have demonstrated some degree of safety and effectiveness for DU healing. However, there are significant methodological issues. Future studies are warranted to rigorously investigate surgical interventions for SSc-DUs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yossra A Suliman
- Rheumatology and Rehabilitation Dept, Assiut University Hospital, Assiut, Egypt.
| | - Corrado Campochiaro
- IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Vita-Salute San Raffaele Università, Milan, Italy
| | - Michael Hughes
- Division of Musculoskeletal and Dermatological Sciences, The University of Manchester, Northern Care Alliance NHS Foundation Trust, Salford Care alliance, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Jan W Schoones
- Directorate of Research Policy (formerly Walaeus Library), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | | | - Pia Moinzadeh
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, University Hospital of Cologne, Germany
| | - Murray Baron
- Jewish General Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Lorinda Chung
- Stanford University School of Medicine and Palo Alto VA Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Laura Ross
- The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | | | | | | | | | - Tracy Frech
- University of Utah, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Daniel E Furst
- University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | | | - Thomas Krieg
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | | | | | - Janet Pope
- Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Alessia Alunno
- Department of Life, Health & Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila and Internal Medicine and Nephrology Unit and Department of Medicine, ASL Avezzano-Sulmona-L'Aquila, San Salvatore Hospital, L'Aquila, Italy
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Gauffenic A, Ratsimbazafy V, Ostertag A, Linglart A, Bourrat E, Leroy C, Lioté F, Latourte A, Richette P, Ea HK, Guigonis V. Effectiveness of topical sodium thiosulfate for ectopic calcifications and ossifications. Results of the CATSS-O study. Semin Arthritis Rheum 2023; 63:152306. [PMID: 37976811 DOI: 10.1016/j.semarthrit.2023.152306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Ectopic calcifications (ECs) and heterotopic ossifications (HOs) form in non-mineralized tissues, most often in subcutaneous and muscular areas. Local and systemic complications can cause severe disability. Systemic administration of sodium thiosulfate (STS) gives promising results but is difficult to use in clinical practice. OBJECTIVE Evaluation of the efficacy and safety of topical STS in ECs and HOs. METHODS Retrospective analysis of the CATSS-O registry that included patients receiving topical STS 25 % prepared by the pharmacy of Limoges hospital during 2014-2020. The efficacy of STS was assessed by imaging (radiography or CT) after at least 6 months' treatment. RESULTS Among 126 patients who received STS 25 %, 35 had complete clinical and radiographic data for analysis (28 with ECs and 7 with HOs; 18 children [mean age 8.9 years, range 1.5-16], 17 adults [mean age 52.4 years, range 24-90]). Calcifications or ossifications were due to dermatomyositis (8 children, 6 adults), systemic scleroderma (6 adults) or pseudo-hypoparathyroidism 1A (7 children). They were single (37.1 %) or multiple (62.9 %). Treated regions were in the lower limbs (31.4 %), upper limbs (37.1 %) or both (28.6 %) and the axial region (2.9 %). Topical STS was clinically effective in 9/28 (32.1 %) patients with ECs and 2/7 (28.6 %) children with HOs. Three patients experienced complete disappearance of their calcifications. Response for ECs was better in children than adults (54.5% vs 17.6 %, p = 0.035). Topical STS was well tolerated. CONCLUSION Local STS seems effective for ossifications, particularly pediatric calcifications or ossifications. Randomized and experimental studies are needed to confirm this observation and to identify the underlying mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan Gauffenic
- Inserm UMR 1132 Bioscar, Université Paris Cité, F-75010 Paris, France; Service de Rhumatologie, Centre Viggo Petersen, Hôpital Lariboisière, APHP.Nord, F-75010 Paris, France
| | - Voa Ratsimbazafy
- University of Limoges, EpiMaCT Epidemiology of chronic diseases in tropical zone, Institute of Epidemiology and Tropical Neurology, OmegaHealth, Limoges, France; Inserm, U1094, EpiMaCT-Epidemiology of chronic diseases in tropical zone, Limoges, France; IRD, U270, EpiMaCT-Epidemiology of chronic diseases in tropical zone, Limoges, France; CHU Limoges, Department of Pharmacy, Limoges, France
| | - Agnès Ostertag
- Inserm UMR 1132 Bioscar, Université Paris Cité, F-75010 Paris, France
| | - Agnès Linglart
- INSERM-U1185, Paris Sud Paris-Saclay University, 75005 Paris, France; APHP, Reference Center for Rare Disorders of the Calcium and Phosphate Metabolism, Network OSCAR and 'Platform of Expertise Paris Sud for Rare Diseases, 75005 Paris, France; APHP, Endocrinology and Diabetes for Children, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Emmanuelle Bourrat
- Department of Dermatology, Reference Center for Genodermatoses and Rare Skin Diseases (MAGEC), Paris, France
| | - Charles Leroy
- Inserm UMR 1132 Bioscar, Université Paris Cité, F-75010 Paris, France
| | - Frédéric Lioté
- Inserm UMR 1132 Bioscar, Université Paris Cité, F-75010 Paris, France; Service de Rhumatologie, Centre Viggo Petersen, Hôpital Lariboisière, APHP.Nord, F-75010 Paris, France
| | - Augustin Latourte
- Inserm UMR 1132 Bioscar, Université Paris Cité, F-75010 Paris, France; Service de Rhumatologie, Centre Viggo Petersen, Hôpital Lariboisière, APHP.Nord, F-75010 Paris, France
| | - Pascal Richette
- Inserm UMR 1132 Bioscar, Université Paris Cité, F-75010 Paris, France; Service de Rhumatologie, Centre Viggo Petersen, Hôpital Lariboisière, APHP.Nord, F-75010 Paris, France
| | - Hang Korng Ea
- Inserm UMR 1132 Bioscar, Université Paris Cité, F-75010 Paris, France; Service de Rhumatologie, Centre Viggo Petersen, Hôpital Lariboisière, APHP.Nord, F-75010 Paris, France.
| | - Vincent Guigonis
- Service de Pédiatrie, CHU de Limoges, Limoges, France; CIC 1435, CHU de Limoges, Limoges, France; UMR CNRS 7276, Limoges, France
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Ferri C, Raimondo V, Giuggioli D, Gragnani L, Lorini S, Dagna L, Bosello SL, Foti R, Riccieri V, Guiducci S, Cuomo G, Tavoni A, De Angelis R, Cacciapaglia F, Zanatta E, Cozzi F, Murdaca G, Cavazzana I, Romeo N, Codullo V, Pellegrini R, Varcasia G, De Santis M, Selmi C, Abignano G, Caminiti M, L'Andolina M, Olivo D, Lubrano E, Spinella A, Lumetti F, De Luca G, Ruscitti P, Urraro T, Visentini M, Bellando-Randone S, Visalli E, Testa D, Sciascia G, Masini F, Pellegrino G, Saccon F, Balestri E, Elia G, Ferrari SM, Tonutti A, Dall’Ara F, Pagano Mariano G, Pettiti G, Zanframundo G, Brittelli R, Aiello V, Dal Bosco Y, Foti R, Di Cola I, Scorpiniti D, Fusaro E, Ferrari T, Gigliotti P, Campochiaro C, Francioso F, Iandoli C, Caira V, Zignego AL, D'Angelo S, Franceschini F, Matucci-Cerinic M, Giacomelli R, Doria A, Santini SA, Fallahi P, Iannone F, Antonelli A. Impact of COVID-19 and vaccination campaign on 1,755 systemic sclerosis patients during first three years of pandemic. Possible risks for individuals with impaired immunoreactivity to vaccine, ongoing immunomodulating treatments, and disease-related lung involvement during the next pandemic phase. J Transl Autoimmun 2023; 7:100212. [PMID: 37854035 PMCID: PMC10580042 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtauto.2023.100212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The impact of COVID-19 pandemic represents a serious challenge for 'frail' patients' populations with inflammatory autoimmune systemic diseases such as systemic sclerosis (SSc). We investigated the prevalence and severity of COVID-19, as well the effects of COVID-19 vaccination campaign in a large series of SSc patients followed for the entire period (first 38 months) of pandemic. Patients and method This prospective survey study included 1755 unselected SSc patients (186 M, 1,569F; mean age 58.7 ± 13.4SD years, mean disease duration 8.8 ± 7.3SD years) recruited in part by telephone survey at 37 referral centers from February 2020 to April 2023. The following parameters were carefully evaluated: i. demographic, clinical, serological, and therapeutical features; ii. prevalence and severity of COVID-19; and iii. safety, immunogenicity, and efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines. Results The prevalence of COVID-19 recorded during the whole pandemic was significantly higher compared to Italian general population (47.3 % vs 43.3 %, p < 0.000), as well the COVID-19-related mortality (1.91 % vs 0.72 %, p < 0.001). As regards the putative prognostic factors of worse outcome, COVID-19 positive patients with SSc-related interstitial lung involvement showed significantly higher percentage of COVID-19-related hospitalization compared to those without (5.85 % vs 1.73 %; p < 0.0001), as well as of mortality rate (2.01 % vs 0.4 %; p = 0.002). Over half of patients (56.3 %) received the first two plus one booster dose of vaccine; while a fourth dose was administered to 35.6 %, and only few of them (1.99 %) had five or more doses of vaccine. Of note, an impaired seroconversion was recorded in 25.6 % of individuals after the first 2 doses of vaccine, and in 8.4 % of patients also after the booster dose. Furthermore, the absence of T-cell immunoreactivity was observed in 3/7 patients tested by QuantiFERON® SARSCoV-2 Starter Set (Qiagen). The efficacy of vaccines, evaluated by comparing the COVID-19-related death rate recorded during pre- and post-vaccination pandemic periods, revealed a quite stable outcome in SSc patients (death rate from 2.54 % to 1.76 %; p = ns), despite the significant drop of mortality observed in the Italian general population (from 2.95 % to 0.29 %; p < 0.0001). Conclusions An increased COVID-19 prevalence and mortality rate was recorded in SSc patients; moreover, the efficacy of vaccines in term of improved outcomes was less evident in SSc compared to Italian general population. This discrepancy might be explained by concomitant adverse prognostic factors: increased rate of non-responders to vaccine in SSc series, low percentage of individuals with four or more doses of vaccine, ongoing immunomodulating treatments, disease-related interstitial lung disease, and/or reduced preventive measures in the second half of pandemic. A careful monitoring of response to COVID-19 vaccines together with adequate preventive/therapeutical strategies are highly recommendable in the near course of pandemic in this frail patients' population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clodoveo Ferri
- Rheumatology Unit, University of Modena & RE., School of Medicine, Modena, Italy
- Rheumatology Clinic ‘Madonna Dello Scoglio’ Cotronei, Crotone, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Raimondo
- Rheumatology Clinic ‘Madonna Dello Scoglio’ Cotronei, Crotone, Italy
| | - Dilia Giuggioli
- Rheumatology Unit, University of Modena & RE., School of Medicine, Modena, Italy
| | - Laura Gragnani
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Italy
| | - Serena Lorini
- MASVE Interdepartmental Hepatology Center, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Center for Research and Innovation CRIA-MASVE, AOU Careggi, Florence, Italy
| | | | - Silvia Laura Bosello
- Division of Rheumatology, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Roma, Italy
| | - Rosario Foti
- AOU Policlinico Vittorio Emanuele, Catania, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | - Rossella De Angelis
- Rheumatology Clinic, Department of Clinical & Molecular Sciences, Marche Polytechnic University, Ancona, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Giuseppe Murdaca
- Ospedale Policlinico S. Martino-University of Genova, Genova, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Maria De Santis
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Milan, Italy
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Carlo Selmi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Milan, Italy
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Maurizio Caminiti
- UOD Reumatologia- Grande Ospedale Metropolitano, Reggio Calabria, Italy
| | - Massimo L'Andolina
- Rheumatology Outpatient Clinic, ASP- Vibo Valentia-Tropea Hospital, Italy
| | - Domenico Olivo
- Rheumatology Outpatient Clinic, San Giovanni di Dio Hospital, Crotone, Italy
| | - Ennio Lubrano
- Rheumatology, Università Del Molise, Campobasso, Italy
| | - Amelia Spinella
- Rheumatology Unit, University of Modena & RE., School of Medicine, Modena, Italy
| | - Federica Lumetti
- Rheumatology Unit, University of Modena & RE., School of Medicine, Modena, Italy
| | | | - Piero Ruscitti
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Biotechnological & Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Teresa Urraro
- Rheumatology Unit, "M. Scarlato" Hospital, Scafati, Italy
| | - Marcella Visentini
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | - Davide Testa
- Clinical Immunology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | - Eugenia Balestri
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Area, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Giusy Elia
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Area, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Silvia Martina Ferrari
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, School of Medicine, Pisa, Italy
| | - Antonio Tonutti
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Milan, Italy
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesca Dall’Ara
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatric Service (UONPIA) Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | - Vincenzo Aiello
- Rheumatology Clinic ‘Madonna Dello Scoglio’ Cotronei, Crotone, Italy
| | | | - Roberta Foti
- AOU Policlinico Vittorio Emanuele, Catania, Italy
| | - Ilenia Di Cola
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Biotechnological & Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | | | - Enrico Fusaro
- Rheumatology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Città Della Salute e Della Scienza, Torino, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Francesca Francioso
- Rheumatology Clinic, Department of Clinical & Molecular Sciences, Marche Polytechnic University, Ancona, Italy
| | - Carlo Iandoli
- University of Campania, Luigi Vanvitelli, Napoli, Italy
| | - Virginia Caira
- U.O.S. Reumatologia, Ospedale Castrovillari, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Anna Linda Zignego
- MASVE Interdepartmental Hepatology Center, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Center for Research and Innovation CRIA-MASVE, AOU Careggi, Florence, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Roberto Giacomelli
- Clinical and Research Section of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Campus Bio-Medico, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Doria
- Rheumatology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Stefano Angelo Santini
- Department of Basic, Clinical, Intensive and Perioperative Biotechnological Sciences, Catholic University School of Medicine, Rome, Italy
- Synlab Lazio, Roma, Italy
| | - Poupak Fallahi
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Alessandro Antonelli
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Area, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - for the COVID-19 & ASD Italian Study Group
- Rheumatology Unit, University of Modena & RE., School of Medicine, Modena, Italy
- Rheumatology Clinic ‘Madonna Dello Scoglio’ Cotronei, Crotone, Italy
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Italy
- MASVE Interdepartmental Hepatology Center, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Center for Research and Innovation CRIA-MASVE, AOU Careggi, Florence, Italy
- Department of Ospedale S. Raffaele, Milano, Italy
- Division of Rheumatology, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Roma, Italy
- AOU Policlinico Vittorio Emanuele, Catania, Italy
- Rheumatology, Sapienza-University of Rome, Roma, Italy
- Rheumatology, University of Florence, Italy
- University of Campania, Luigi Vanvitelli, Napoli, Italy
- Clinical Immunology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
- Rheumatology Clinic, Department of Clinical & Molecular Sciences, Marche Polytechnic University, Ancona, Italy
- UO Reumatologia - DETO, Università di Bari, Bari, Italy
- Rheumatology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
- Ospedale "Villa Salus", Mestre, Italy
- Ospedale Policlinico S. Martino-University of Genova, Genova, Italy
- Rheumatology, Spedali Civili di Brescia, Brescia, Italy
- ASO S. Croce e Carle, Cuneo, Italy
- Rheumatology, Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
- U.O.C. Medicina Interna 'M.Valentini" P.O, Annunziata, Cosenza, Italy
- U.O.S. Reumatologia, Ospedale Castrovillari, Cosenza, Italy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Milan, Italy
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy
- AOR San Carlo di Potenza, Potenza, Italy
- UOD Reumatologia- Grande Ospedale Metropolitano, Reggio Calabria, Italy
- Rheumatology Outpatient Clinic, ASP- Vibo Valentia-Tropea Hospital, Italy
- Rheumatology Outpatient Clinic, San Giovanni di Dio Hospital, Crotone, Italy
- Rheumatology, Università Del Molise, Campobasso, Italy
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Biotechnological & Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
- Rheumatology Unit, "M. Scarlato" Hospital, Scafati, Italy
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Area, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, School of Medicine, Pisa, Italy
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatric Service (UONPIA) Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Rheumatology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Città Della Salute e Della Scienza, Torino, Italy
- U.O.T. Specialistica Ambulatoriale ASP 201, Cosenza, Italy
- Clinical and Research Section of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Campus Bio-Medico, Rome, Italy
- Department of Basic, Clinical, Intensive and Perioperative Biotechnological Sciences, Catholic University School of Medicine, Rome, Italy
- Synlab Lazio, Roma, Italy
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Jimenez SA, Piera-Velazquez S. Cellular Transdifferentiation: A Crucial Mechanism of Fibrosis in Systemic Sclerosis. Curr Rheumatol Rev 2023; 20:CRR-EPUB-135847. [PMID: 37921216 DOI: 10.2174/0115733971261932231025045400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
Systemic Sclerosis (SSc) is a systemic autoimmune disease of unknown etiology with a highly complex pathogenesis that despite extensive investigation is not completely understood. The clinical and pathologic manifestations of the disease result from three distinct processes: 1) Severe and frequently progressive tissue fibrosis causing exaggerated and deleterious accumulation of interstitial collagens and other extracellular matrix molecules in the skin and various internal organs; 2) extensive fibroproliferative vascular lesions affecting small arteries and arterioles causing tissue ischemic alterations; and 3) cellular and humoral immunity abnormalities with the production of numerous autoantibodies, some with very high specificity for SSc. The fibrotic process in SSc is one of the main causes of disability and high mortality of the disease. Owing to its essentially universal presence and the severity of its clinical effects, the mechanisms involved in the development and progression of tissue fibrosis have been extensively investigated, however, despite intensive investigation, the precise molecular mechanisms have not been fully elucidated. Several recent studies have suggested that cellular transdifferentiation resulting in the phenotypic conversion of various cell types into activated myofibroblasts may be one important mechanism. Here, we review the potential role that cellular transdifferentiation may play in the development of severe and often progressive tissue fibrosis in SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio A Jimenez
- Jefferson Institute of Molecular Medicine and Scleroderma Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia 19107, USA
| | - Sonsoles Piera-Velazquez
- Jefferson Institute of Molecular Medicine and Scleroderma Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia 19107, USA
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Tirelli F, Giraudo C, Soliani M, Calabrese F, Martini G, Gisondi P, Meneghel A, Zulian F. Connective tissue nevus misdiagnosed as juvenile localized scleroderma. Pediatr Rheumatol Online J 2023; 21:125. [PMID: 37848914 PMCID: PMC10583392 DOI: 10.1186/s12969-023-00913-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Connective tissue nevi (CTN) are congenital hamartomas caused by excessive proliferation of dermis components. In children, CTN can mimic juvenile localized scleroderma (JLS), an immune mediated skin disorder that requires aggressive immunosuppression. OBJECTIVES Aim of our study was to describe a series of pediatric patients with CTN misdiagnosed as JLS and the discerning characteristics between the two conditions. METHODS Retrospective analysis of children referred to our Center during the last two decades for JLS who received a final diagnosis of CTN. Clinical, laboratory, histopathological and instrumental data (MRI and thermography) were collected and compared with those with JLS. RESULTS Seventeen patients with mean age at onset 4.6 years entered the study. All came to our Center with a certain diagnosis of JLS (n = 15) or suspected JLS (n = 2). The indurated skin lesions were flat and resembled either circumscribed morphea or pansclerotic morphea. In 14 patients (82.4%) they were mainly localized at the lower limbs and in three (17.6%) at the upper limbs. No patient had laboratory inflammatory changes or positive autoantibodies. Skin biopsies confirmed the diagnosis of CTN: non-familial collagenoma in eleven (64.7%), mixed CTN in four (23.5%) and familial CTN in two (11.8%). Mean age at final diagnosis was 9.5 years, with a mean diagnostic delay of 4.8 years (range 1-15 years). Sixteen patients underwent musculoskeletal MRI that was normal in all except two who showed muscle perifascial enhancement. Thermography was normal in all patients. At our first evaluation, eleven patients (64.7%) were on systemic treatment (methotrexate 11, corticosteroids 7, biologics 2), three (17.6%) on topical corticosteroids and three untreated. CONCLUSIONS CTN can be misdiagnosed as JLS and therefore aggressively treated with prolonged and inappropriate immunosuppression. The absence of inflammatory appearance of the skin lesions, normal instrumental and laboratory findings and the accurate evaluation of skin biopsy are crucial to address the right diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Tirelli
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Woman and Child Health, University Hospital of Padova, Via Giustiniani 3, Padova, 35128, Italy
| | - C Giraudo
- Radiology Institute, Unit of Advanced Clinical and Translational Imaging, Department of Medicine-DIMED, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - M Soliani
- Pediatric Unit, ASST Cremona, Cremona, Italy
| | - F Calabrese
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - G Martini
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Woman and Child Health, University Hospital of Padova, Via Giustiniani 3, Padova, 35128, Italy
| | - P Gisondi
- Department of Medicine, Section of Dermatology and Venereology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - A Meneghel
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Woman and Child Health, University Hospital of Padova, Via Giustiniani 3, Padova, 35128, Italy
| | - Francesco Zulian
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Woman and Child Health, University Hospital of Padova, Via Giustiniani 3, Padova, 35128, Italy.
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Sanchez NG, Rebollo Domínguez N, Martínez Luna E, Villaseñor Ovies P. Nodular (keloidal) scleroderma. Reumatol Clin (Engl Ed) 2023; 19:463-464. [PMID: 37805259 DOI: 10.1016/j.reumae.2023.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/09/2023]
Abstract
Keloidal or nodular scleroderma (NS) is a variant of localized scleroderma (LS) frequently seen in patients with limited or diffuse systemic sclerosis (SSc). It presents as raised, firm plaques or nodules with extensive dermal fibrosis and hyalinized collagen bundles. We present a patient with SSc who presented with this rare entity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Gabriela Sanchez
- Digital Pathology Laboratory, Instituto Tecnológico y de Estudios Superiores De Monterrey Campus Ciudad de México, Mexico
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Sleiman AG, Vallette N, Milto AJ, Revelt N, Scaife SL, Thuppal SV. The effect of autoimmune skin disorders on post-operative outcomes following arthroplasty. Surgeon 2023; 21:e292-e300. [PMID: 37028955 DOI: 10.1016/j.surge.2023.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/09/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The impact of autoimmune skin disorders on post-operative outcomes after TJA is conflicting and studies are limited by small sample sizes. The purpose of this study is to analyze a range of common autoimmune skin disorders and identify whether an increased risk of post-operative complication exists after total joint arthroplasty. METHODS Data was collected from NIS database for patients diagnosed with autoimmune skin disorder (psoriasis, lupus, scleroderma, atopic dermatitis) and who underwent total hip arthroplasty (THA), total knee arthroplasty (TKA), or other TJA (shoulder elbow, wrist, ankle) between 2016 and 2019. Demographic, social, and comorbidity data was collected. Multivariate regression analyses were performed to assess the independent influence of autoimmune skin disorder on each post-operative outcome including implant infection, transfusion, revision, length of stay, cost, and mortality. RESULTS Among 55,755 patients with autoimmune skin disease who underwent TJA, psoriasis was associated with increased risk of periprosthetic joint infection following THA (odds ratio 2.44 [1.89-3.15]) and increased risk of transfusion following TKA (odds ratio 1.33 [1.076-1.64]). Similar analyses were performed for systemic lupus erythematosus, atopic dermatitis, and scleroderma, however no statistically significant associations were observed in any of the six collected post-operative outcomes. CONCLUSION This study suggests psoriasis is an independent risk factor for poorer post-operative outcomes following total joint arthroplasty, however similar risk was not observed for other autoimmune skin disorders such as lupus, atopic dermatitis, or scleroderma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony G Sleiman
- Division of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation, Department of Surgery, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL P.O. Box 19679, Springfield, IL, 62794, USA; Center for Clinical Research, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, 201 E. Madison St., Springfield, IL, 62702, USA
| | - Noah Vallette
- Division of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation, Department of Surgery, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL P.O. Box 19679, Springfield, IL, 62794, USA
| | - Anthony J Milto
- Division of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation, Department of Surgery, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL P.O. Box 19679, Springfield, IL, 62794, USA
| | - Nicolas Revelt
- Division of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation, Department of Surgery, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL P.O. Box 19679, Springfield, IL, 62794, USA
| | - Steven L Scaife
- Center for Clinical Research, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, 201 E. Madison St., Springfield, IL, 62702, USA
| | - Sowmyanarayanan V Thuppal
- Division of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation, Department of Surgery, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL P.O. Box 19679, Springfield, IL, 62794, USA; Center for Clinical Research, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, 201 E. Madison St., Springfield, IL, 62702, USA.
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Dziedzic R, Wójcik K, Olchawa M, Sarna T, Pięta J, Jakieła B, Padjas A, Korona A, Zaręba L, Potaczek DP, Kosałka-Węgiel J, Jurczyszyn A, Bazan-Socha S. Increased oxidative stress response in circulating blood of systemic sclerosis patients - relation to disease characteristics and inflammatory blood biomarkers. Semin Arthritis Rheum 2023; 62:152228. [PMID: 37429138 DOI: 10.1016/j.semarthrit.2023.152228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare connective tissue disorder of unknown etiology characterized by organ fibrosis and microcirculation dysfunction. Emerging evidence suggests that SSc is related to increased oxidative stress, which contributes to further tissue and vascular damage. METHODS Oxidative stress response in the peripheral blood was assessed in patients with SSc (n = 55) and well-matched controls (n = 44) using real-time monitoring of protein hydroperoxide (HP) formation by the coumarin boronic acid (CBA) assay. We also analyzed the relationship between HP generation and SSc clinics, systemic inflammation, and cellular fibronectin, an emerging biomarker of endothelial damage. RESULTS SSc was characterized by a significantly faster (2-fold) fluorescent product generation in the CBA assay and higher cumulative HP formation (3-fold) compared to controls (p<0.001, both). The dynamics of HP generation were not associated with the form of the disease (diffuse vs. limited SSc), current immunosuppressive therapy use, presence of abnormal nailfold capillaries, and autoantibody profile. Still, it was enhanced in patients with more severe illness and certain clinical manifestations (i.e., pulmonary hypertension, digital ulcers, and cyclophosphamide treatment) and in smokers (current or past). Higher serum CRP, blood eosinophil count, and cellular fibronectin with lower hemoglobin levels were independent determinants of increased HP formation. CONCLUSIONS Our data indicate a pro-oxidant imbalance in SSc, likely related to systemic inflammation and endothelial injury. However, extensive prospective studies are needed to verify whether it is also associated with clinical disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Radosław Dziedzic
- Jagiellonian University Medical College, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Jakubowskiego 2, 30-688 Krakow, Poland; Jagiellonian University Medical College, Doctoral School of Medical and Health Sciences, Łazarza 16, 31-530 Krakow, Poland
| | - Krzysztof Wójcik
- Jagiellonian University Medical College, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Jakubowskiego 2, 30-688 Krakow, Poland
| | - Magdalena Olchawa
- Department of Biophysics, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 7, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
| | - Tadeusz Sarna
- Department of Biophysics, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 7, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
| | - Jakub Pięta
- Institute of Applied Radiation Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Lodz University of Technology, Żeromskiego 116, 90-924 Lodz, Poland
| | - Bogdan Jakieła
- Jagiellonian University Medical College, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Jakubowskiego 2, 30-688 Krakow, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Padjas
- Jagiellonian University Medical College, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Jakubowskiego 2, 30-688 Krakow, Poland
| | - Anna Korona
- Jagiellonian University Medical College, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Jakubowskiego 2, 30-688 Krakow, Poland
| | - Lech Zaręba
- College of Natural Sciences, Institute of Computer Science, University of Rzeszow, Pigonia 1, 35-310 Rzeszow, Poland
| | - Daniel P Potaczek
- Translational Inflammation Research Division & Core Facility for Single Cell Multiomics, Philipps-University Marburg, Karl-von-Frisch-Straße 2, 35043 Marburg, Germany; Center for Infection and Genomics of the Lung (CIGL), Universities of Giessen and Marburg Lung Center (UGMLC), Aulweg 132, 35392 Gießen, Germany; Bioscientia MVZ Labor Mittelhessen GmbH, Rudolf-Diesel-Straße 4, 35394 Gießen, Germany
| | - Joanna Kosałka-Węgiel
- Jagiellonian University Medical College, Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Jakubowskiego 2, 30-688 Krakow, Poland
| | - Artur Jurczyszyn
- Plasma Cell Dyscrasias Center, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Department of Hematology, Faculty of Medicine, Kopernika 17, 31-501 Kraków, Poland
| | - Stanisława Bazan-Socha
- Jagiellonian University Medical College, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Jakubowskiego 2, 30-688 Krakow, Poland.
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Kou X, Yang H, Ma G, Luo W. Scleroderma complicated by dry gangrene of the middle, ring and little finger ends of the right hand: A case report. Asian J Surg 2023; 46:4405-4406. [PMID: 37142501 DOI: 10.1016/j.asjsur.2023.04.081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Xianshuai Kou
- The First Clinical Medical College of Gansu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, 730000, China
| | - Hao Yang
- Department of Orthopedics, Gansu Provincial Hospital, Lanzhou, 730000, China
| | - Guifu Ma
- Department of Orthopedics, Gansu Provincial Hospital, Lanzhou, 730000, China
| | - Wenyuan Luo
- Department of Orthopedics, Gansu Provincial Hospital, Lanzhou, 730000, China.
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Civi Karaaslan T, Tarakci E, Keles O, Aslan Keles Y, Ugurlu S. Comparison of telerehabilitation methods for patients with systemic sclerosis in the COVID-19 Era: A randomized controlled study. J Hand Ther 2023; 36:751-769. [PMID: 37574373 DOI: 10.1016/j.jht.2023.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Revised: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN This was a single-blinded randomized clinical trial. INTRODUCTION Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune connective tissue disease that progresses with fibrosis. Patients with SSc need to be protected against epidemic diseases and provided for in terms of rehabilitation needs. PURPOSE OF THE STUDY To compare the effects of real-time telerehabilitation (RTT) and asynchronous telerehabilitation (AT) on individuals with SSc. METHODS Forty-two participants with SSc with a mean age of 44.17 ± 11.05 years were included in the study. The patients were randomly divided into three groups, RTT (n = 16), AT (n = 16), and control (n = 16) groups. A structured rehabilitation program was performed in real-time (RTT group) and asynchronously (AT group) for 40 minutes per day, in three sessions per week for 8 weeks. The participants' finger and wrist joint range of motion (ROM), upper extremity functions, grip strength, superficial sense of touch, activities of daily living (ADL), and general health status were assessed at baseline and after treatment. RESULTS After 8 weeks, there were improvements in finger ROM (effect size [ES] = 0.23 to 0.60), wrist ROM (ES = 0.45 to 0.83), upper extremity functions (ES = 0.61 to 1.00), and ADL parameters (ES = 0.74) in the RTT group (p < 0.05). Also, there were improvements in finger ROM (ES = 0.16 to 0.45) and hand functions (ES = 0.54 to 0.55) in the AT group (p < 0.05). The RTT and AT groups had better hand functions and finger ROM than the control group in (p < 0.05). In addition, the RTT group had better wrist ROM than the control group (p = 0.008). RTT was superior to AT only in lateral pinch strength (p = 0.025). DISCUSSION Experimental groups achieved a statistically significant change in ROM, upper extremity functions and ADL over time in concordance with prior investigations. Changes in grip strength, superficial sense of touch, and general health status scores differed from previous investigations and the between-group comparison was not statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS Both RTT and AT may be effective in individuals with SSc, and RTT has additional benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tugba Civi Karaaslan
- Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health Sciences, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul, Turkey.
| | - Ela Tarakci
- Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health Sciences, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ozal Keles
- Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health Sciences, Bitlis Eren University, Bitlis, Turkey
| | - Yasemin Aslan Keles
- Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Institute of Graduate Studies, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul, Turkey; Department of Therapy and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy Program, Vocational School, Biruni University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Serdal Ugurlu
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Cerrahpasa Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul, Turkey
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Sagonas I, Daoussis D. Treatment of digital ulcers in systemic sclerosis: recent developments and future perspectives. Clin Rheumatol 2023; 42:2589-2599. [PMID: 36847929 PMCID: PMC10497679 DOI: 10.1007/s10067-023-06511-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 01/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/01/2023]
Abstract
Digital ulcers (DUs) comprise the main manifestation of vasculopathy and are a major cause of disability in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc). A literature search in Web of Science, PubMed and Directory of Open Access Journals was performed in December 2022 to identify articles published in the last decade regarding the management of DUs. Prostacyclin analogues, endothelin antagonists and phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitors have shown promising results both as a stand-alone treatment and in combination for the treatment of existing and prevention of new DUs. Moreover, autologous fat grafting and botulinum toxin injections, although not readily available, can be of use in recalcitrant cases. Many investigational treatments with promising results could pave the way for a paradigm shift in the treatment of DUs in the future. Despite these recent advances, challenges remain. Better-designed trials are of paramount importance to optimise DU treatment in the years to come. Key Points • DUs are a major cause of pain and reduced quality of life in patients with SSc. • Prostacyclin analogues and endothelin antagonists have shown promising results both as a stand-alone treatment and in combination for the treatment of existing and prevention of new DUs. • In the future, a combination of more powerful vasodilatory drugs, perhaps in conjunction with topical approaches, may improve outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis Sagonas
- Rheumazentrum Ruhrgebiet, Ruhr-University Bochum, Herne, Germany
| | - Dimitrios Daoussis
- Department of Rheumatology, Patras University Hospital, University of Patras Medical School, Patras, Greece.
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45
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Basyal B, Ullah W, Derk CT. Pericardial effusions and cardiac tamponade in hospitalized systemic sclerosis patients: analysis of the national inpatient sample. BMC Rheumatol 2023; 7:34. [PMID: 37759292 PMCID: PMC10537065 DOI: 10.1186/s41927-023-00360-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Clinically significant pericardial effusions and cardiac tamponade in systemic sclerosis (SSc) patients is uncommon and the factors that contribute to progression of pericardial involvement in SSc patients have not been well established. METHODS A review of the national inpatient sample database was performed looking SSc related hospitalizations between 2002 and 2019. Data was collected on patients with pericardial effusions and cardiac tamponade and analyzed to identify and describe patient characteristics and comorbidities. RESULTS Out of a total of 523,410 SSc hospitalizations, with an overall inpatient mortality rate of 4.7% (24,764 patients), pericardial effusion was identified in 3.1% of all hospitalizations (16,141 patients) out of which 0.2% (838 patients) had a diagnosis of cardiac tamponade. Patients with pericardial effusion were significantly more likely to have pulmonary circulatory disease (p = < 0.0001), congestive heart failure (p = < 0.0001) end stage renal disease (p = < 0.0001), diabetes (p = 0.015), and hypothyroidism (p = 0.025). Patients with cardiac tamponade were significantly more likely to have a history of coronary artery bypass graft surgery (p = 0.001) or atrial fibrillation (p = < 0.0001). Hospitalized patients with cardiac tamponade had a significantly increased mortality rate of 17.7% compared to 8.8% in patients with pericardial effusions without a tamponade physiology, with an odds ratio of 2.3 (1.97-2.86), p = < 0.0001. CONCLUSION Pericardial effusion and tamponade are associated with increased morbidity and mortality in SSc patients. Further studies are required to explore the role of patient comorbidities and characteristics in development into pericardial effusions or tamponade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bikash Basyal
- Department of Medicine, Jefferson Abington Hospital, Abington, PA, USA
| | - Waqas Ullah
- Division of Cardiology, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Chris T Derk
- Division of Rheumatology, University of Pennsylvania, 5th Floor White Bldg 3400 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
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Maidman SD, Birjiniuk J, Donnino R, Basu A, Belmont HM, Goldberg RI, Kadosh BS. Rapidly Progressive Primary Scleroderma Cardiomyopathy in a Young Adult Characterized by Multimodality Imaging. CASE (Phila) 2023; 7:349-353. [PMID: 37791122 PMCID: PMC10542747 DOI: 10.1016/j.case.2023.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
•Scleroderma-related heart disease is usually secondary to lung disease or PH. •Scleroderma rarely causes systolic HF in young patients or those without CAD. •A multimodality strategy should be used to characterize scleroderma cardiomyopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel D. Maidman
- Leon H. Charney Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Joav Birjiniuk
- Department of Surgery, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Robert Donnino
- Leon H. Charney Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York
- Department of Radiology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York
- Division of Cardiology, Veteran Affairs NY Harbor Medical Center, Manhattan Campus, New York, New York
| | - Atreyee Basu
- Department of Pathology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York
| | - H. Michael Belmont
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Randal I. Goldberg
- Leon H. Charney Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Bernard S. Kadosh
- Leon H. Charney Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York
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Vakhshoorzadeh J, Lui JK, Sangani RA, Trojanowski MA, Bujor AM, LaValley MP, Klings ES. Emphysema and interstitial lung disease in systemic sclerosis-related pulmonary hypertension. Respir Med 2023; 216:107333. [PMID: 37336329 PMCID: PMC10666733 DOI: 10.1016/j.rmed.2023.107333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Justin K Lui
- Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA; The Pulmonary Center, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ruchika A Sangani
- Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA; The Pulmonary Center, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Marcin A Trojanowski
- Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA; Arthritis and Autoimmune Diseases Research Center, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Andreea M Bujor
- Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA; Arthritis and Autoimmune Diseases Research Center, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Michael P LaValley
- Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA; Arthritis and Autoimmune Diseases Research Center, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Biostatistics, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Elizabeth S Klings
- Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA; The Pulmonary Center, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
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Reyes-Jiménez E, Ramírez-Hernández AA, Santos-Álvarez JC, Velázquez-Enríquez JM, González-García K, Carrasco-Torres G, Villa-Treviño S, Baltiérrez-Hoyos R, Vásquez-Garzón VR. Coadministration of 3'5-dimaleamylbenzoic acid and quercetin decrease pulmonary fibrosis in a systemic sclerosis model. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 122:110664. [PMID: 37481854 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.110664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disease characterized by microvascular compromise and fibrosis. Pulmonary fibrosis, a prominent pulmonary complication in SSc, results in impaired lung function due to excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix components. This study aimed to investigate the effects of coadministration of 3'5-dimaleamylbenzoic acid (AD) and quercetin (Q) on key events in the development and maintenance of pulmonary fibrosis in a bleomycin (BLM)-induced SSc mouse model. The model was induced in CD1 mice through BLM administration using osmotic mini pumps. Subsequently, mice were treated with AD (6 mg/kg) plus Q (10 mg/kg) and sacrificed at 21 and 28 days post BLM administration. Histopathological analysis was performed by hematoxylin and eosin staining and Masson's trichrome staining. Immunohistochemistry was used to determine the expression of proliferation, proinflammatory, profibrotic and oxidative stress markers. The coadministration of AD and Q during the fibrotic phase of the BLM-induced SSc model led to attenuated histological alterations and pulmonary fibrosis, reflected in the recovery of alveolar spaces (30 %, p < 0.01) and decreased collagen deposits (50 %, p < 0.001). This effect was achieved by decreasing the expression of the proliferative markers cyclin D1 (87 %, p < 0.0001) and PCNA (43 %, p < 0.0001), inflammatory markers COX-2 (71 %, p < 0.0001) and iNOS (84 %, p < 0.0001), profibrotic markers α-SMA (80 %, p < 0.0001) and TGF-β (81 %, p < 0.0001) and the lipid peroxidation marker 4-HNE (43 %, p < 0.01). The antifibrotic effect of this combined therapy is associated with the regulation of proliferation, inflammation and oxidative stress, mechanisms involved in the development and progression of the fibrotic process. Our novel therapeutic strategy is the first approach to propose the use of the combination of prooxidant and antioxidant compounds as a potential strategy for SSc-associated pulmonary fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edilburga Reyes-Jiménez
- Laboratorio de Fibrosis y Cáncer, Facultad de Medicina y Cirugía, Universidad Autónoma "Benito Juárez" de Oaxaca, Oaxaca, Mexico
| | - Alma Aurora Ramírez-Hernández
- Laboratorio de Fibrosis y Cáncer, Facultad de Medicina y Cirugía, Universidad Autónoma "Benito Juárez" de Oaxaca, Oaxaca, Mexico
| | - Jovito Cesar Santos-Álvarez
- Laboratorio de Fibrosis y Cáncer, Facultad de Medicina y Cirugía, Universidad Autónoma "Benito Juárez" de Oaxaca, Oaxaca, Mexico
| | - Juan Manuel Velázquez-Enríquez
- Laboratorio de Fibrosis y Cáncer, Facultad de Medicina y Cirugía, Universidad Autónoma "Benito Juárez" de Oaxaca, Oaxaca, Mexico
| | - Karina González-García
- Laboratorio de Fibrosis y Cáncer, Facultad de Medicina y Cirugía, Universidad Autónoma "Benito Juárez" de Oaxaca, Oaxaca, Mexico
| | - Gabriela Carrasco-Torres
- Centro de Investigación en Ciencias Aplicadas y Tecnología Avanzada, Unidad Morelos, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Morelos, Mexico
| | - Saúl Villa-Treviño
- Departamento de Biología Celular, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Rafael Baltiérrez-Hoyos
- Laboratorio de Fibrosis y Cáncer, Facultad de Medicina y Cirugía, Universidad Autónoma "Benito Juárez" de Oaxaca, Oaxaca, Mexico; CONAHCYT-Facultad de Medicina y Cirugía, Universidad Autónoma "Benito Juárez" de Oaxaca, Oaxaca, Mexico
| | - Verónica Rocío Vásquez-Garzón
- Laboratorio de Fibrosis y Cáncer, Facultad de Medicina y Cirugía, Universidad Autónoma "Benito Juárez" de Oaxaca, Oaxaca, Mexico; CONAHCYT-Facultad de Medicina y Cirugía, Universidad Autónoma "Benito Juárez" de Oaxaca, Oaxaca, Mexico.
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Karim M, Boikess RS, Schwartz RA, Cohen PJ. Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO): a solvent that may solve selected cutaneous clinical challenges. Arch Dermatol Res 2023; 315:1465-1472. [PMID: 36459193 DOI: 10.1007/s00403-022-02494-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) is a clear, odorless liquid, inexpensively produced as a by-product of the wood pulp industry. DMSO's unique chemical properties allow for its broad applications in a wide variety of cutaneous challenges. Widely available in the USA as a solvent, DMSO is FDA-approved only for the treatment of interstitial cystitis and for use as a preservative for organ transplant. DMSO readily penetrates and diffuses through biological membranes. At low concentrations, DMSO exhibits anti-inflammatory, analgesic, diuretic, vasodilator, anti-platelet aggregation, radio-protective, and muscle-relaxing properties. DMSO is also a vigorous scavenger of hydroxyl free radicals, which may explain its observed beneficial effects on skin rejuvenation and recovery from thermal injury. DMSO has a relatively low level of toxicity. DMSO has shown promise in the off-label treatment of basal cell carcinoma, pressure ulcers, scleroderma, herpes simplex, cutaneous fungal infections, and amyloidosis. The potential of DMSO to serve as an independent or adjuvant topical treatment for these conditions is explored in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Karim
- Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, Nutley, NJ, USA
| | - Robert S Boikess
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Rutgers University New Brunswick, 123 Bevier Rd, Piscataway, NJ, 08854, USA
| | - Robert A Schwartz
- Dermatology, Rutgers-New Jersey Medical School, 185 South, Orange Avenue, Newark, NJ, 07103-2714, USA.
| | - Philip J Cohen
- Dermatology, Rutgers-New Jersey Medical School, 185 South, Orange Avenue, Newark, NJ, 07103-2714, USA
- Dermatology, VA New Jersey Health Care System, East Orange, NJ, USA
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50
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Young A, Rudy B, Volkmann ER. Living with Systemic Sclerosis: A Patient and Physician Perspective. Rheumatol Ther 2023; 10:785-792. [PMID: 37173569 PMCID: PMC10326232 DOI: 10.1007/s40744-023-00555-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The fears associated with being diagnosed with a disease unfamiliar to many, systemic sclerosis, is described by a patient living with systemic sclerosis. The patient, a coauthor, also describes the challenges of being a young person diagnosed with a chronic and, at times, debilitating disease. Despite initially being told that she had 6 months to live, she has embraced life and has become a fierce advocate for others living with systemic sclerosis. The physician perspective is provided by two rheumatologists who specialize in systemic sclerosis and work at a scleroderma center of excellence. This section details the current challenges in diagnosing systemic sclerosis early and the dangers of a delayed diagnosis. It also reviews the importance of multi-disciplinary specialty centers in the care of patients with systemic sclerosis as well as empowering patients through education.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arissa Young
- University of California, Los Angeles, 200 Medical Plaza Suite 365-C, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | | | - Elizabeth R Volkmann
- University of California, Los Angeles, 200 Medical Plaza Suite 365-C, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA.
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