Severe behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia successfully treated at home with a blonanserin transdermal patch: A case report

AIM

Behavioral psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) are sometimes difficult to treat due to severe psychiatric symptoms such as delusions of poisoning and violent behavior. Moreover, in cases of parental neglect, the management of these psychiatric symptoms becomes more difficult. Therefore, home-visiting doctors sometimes have to manage patients with BPSD and severe psychiatric symptoms, and a new approach is needed. In this case report, the effect of blonanserin transdermal patch on these patients is to be highlighted.

METHODS

The patient is a 91-year-old woman diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. She had severe BPSD such as delusion of robbery and violent behavior, and refused oral medications including memantine and yokukansan. Then she was treated with blonanserin transdermal patch (20 mg/day). The severity of psychiatric symptoms of BPSD was assessed over time using the Neuropsychiatric Inventory (NPI) score. Moreover, the patient's cognitive function was also assessed over time by Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE).

RESULTS

After the introduction of blonanserin patch, the patient's psychiatric symptoms were stabilized markedly, and both NPI and MMSE scores improved. The patient was able to stay at home calmly and was mentally well stabilized to the extent that she did not require hospitalization. No apparent side effects were admitted.

CONCLUSIONS

The blonanserin transdermal patch may be able to manage BPSD at home and is effective in patients who refuse oral medications. Home-visiting doctors may consider the use of blonanserin patches at home for patients with severe BPSD, manifesting as delusions of poisoning and refusing oral drugs.

Concomitant use of hydroxyzine and haloperidol did not worsen delirium in patients with cancer: A multicenter, retrospective, observational study

OBJECTIVES

There is concern that hydroxyzine exacerbates delirium, but a recent preliminary study suggested that the combination of haloperidol and hydroxyzine was effective against delirium. This study examined whether the concomitant use of hydroxyzine and haloperidol worsened delirium in patients with cancer.

METHODS

This retrospective, observational study was conducted at 2 general hospitals in Japan. The medical records of patients with cancer who received haloperidol for delirium from July to December 2020 were reviewed. The treatments for delirium included haloperidol alone or haloperidol combined with hydroxyzine. The primary outcome was the duration from the first day of haloperidol administration to the resolution of delirium, defined as its absence for 2 consecutive days. The time to delirium resolution was analyzed to compare the haloperidol group and hydroxyzine combination group using the log-rank test with the Kaplan-Meier method. Secondary outcomes were (1) the total dose of antipsychotic medications, including those other than haloperidol (measured in chlorpromazine-equivalent doses), and (2) the frequencies of detrimental incidents during delirium, specifically falls and self-removal of drip infusion lines. The unpaired t-test and Fisher's exact test were used to analyze secondary outcomes.

RESULTS

Of 497 patients who received haloperidol, 118 (23.7%) also received hydroxyzine. No significant difference in time to delirium resolution was found between the haloperidol group and the hydroxyzine combination group (log-rank test, P = 0.631). No significant difference between groups was found in either chlorpromazine-equivalent doses or the frequency of detrimental incidents.

SIGNIFICANCE OF RESULTS

This study showed that the concomitant use of hydroxyzine and haloperidol did not worsen delirium in patients with cancer.

A multi-centre, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of ramelteon for the prevention of postoperative delirium in elderly cancer patients: a study protocol for JORTC-PON2/J-SUPPORT2103/NCCH2103

Postoperative delirium is an important issue in cancer patients, affecting surgical outcomes and the quality of life. Ramelteon is a melatonin receptor agonist with high affinity for MT1 and MT2 receptors. Clinical trials and observational studies in Japan, including in surgical cancer patients, have shown efficacy of ramelteon in delirium prevention, with no serious safety concerns. However, clinical trials from the USA have reported conflicting results. A Japanese phase II study investigated the efficacy and safety of ramelteon for delirium prevention following gastrectomy in patients aged ≥75 years, with findings suggesting the feasibility of a phase III trial. The aim of this multi-centre, double-blind, randomized placebo-controlled phase III trial is to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of oral ramelteon for postoperative delirium prevention in cancer patients aged ≥65 years as advanced medical care. The trial protocol is described here.

Psychological distress among healthcare providers in oncology during the COVID-19 pandemic in Japan: The mediating role of moral distress and resilience

Objective

Even though vaccines have become widespread, there is an explosion of infection due to the emergence of new mutant strains, and support for healthcare providers' mental health is necessary. The aims of this study were to explore factors associated with the psychological distress, and to determine the degree of association between moral distress, resilience and psychological distress in order to consider intervention models for psychological distress of healthcare providers involved with cancer patients during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Method

We conducted a cross-sectional survey among healthcare providers at the National Cancer Center, Japan. Psychological distress was assessed by the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. We also assessed moral distress using the Moral Distress Thermometer and resilience using the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale 10 in April and May 2020 which was the first surge of the epidemic period.

Results

Five hundred sixty-six of 3,900 healthcare providers (14.5%) responded. Sixty-eight percent (385/566) responders were above the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale cutoff. Hierarchical regression analyses indicated that nurses, allied health professionals and office workers/engineers (odds ratio = 4.63; 95% confidence interval 1.90-11.29; p < 0.001, odds ratio = 3.88; 95% confidence interval 1.88-8.00; p < 0.001, odds ratio = 2.10; 95% confidence interval 1.06-4.18; p < 0.05) as well as healthcare providers with low resilience (odds ratio = 0.88; 95% confidence interval 0.85-0.91; p < 0.001) were at risk of psychological distress. Moral distress was not significantly associated with prevalence of psychological distress.

Conclusion

During the first surge of the pandemic, a high prevalence of psychological distress was demonstrated among cancer center healthcare providers. The study suggests that mental health care should be available to cancer care providers. Since the COVID-19 pandemic is still going on, in addition to the efforts by our facilities, we should consider interventions that promote resilience and a feasibility study of these interventions.

Association of Antipsychotic Dose With Survival of Advanced Cancer Patients With Delirium

CONTEXT

Delirium is common in patients with advanced cancer, and antipsychotics are widely used for its management.

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to explore the association of the antipsychotic dose with survival of terminally ill cancer patients with delirium.

METHODS

A secondary analysis of a multicenter prospective observational study was conducted. We enrolled adult advanced cancer patients who developed delirium and received antipsychotics at 14 palliative care units in Japan between September 2015 and May 2016. Hazard ratios of survival after starting antipsychotics between groups with different oral chlorpromazine equivalent doses: low: <100 mg, moderate: 100-200 mg, high: ≥200 mg, were calculated with adjustment for potential confounders using Cox regression. The antipsychotic dose-specific mortality risk was estimated with smooth splines.

RESULTS

Of 453 patients enrolled, 422 patients were analyzed. The median antipsychotic dose was 92.6 mg: low-dose (N = 231), moderate-dose (122), and high-dose (69). The median survival of all patients was 11 days. Compared with the low-dose group, the high-dose group showed a significantly shorter survival (HR: 1.46, 95%CI: 1.08-1.98). Smooth splines demonstrated that HR continuously increased as the antipsychotic dose increased. In patients treated with atypical antipsychotics, the high-dose group showed a significantly shorter survival than the low-dose group (HR: 2.86), while in patients treated with typical antipsychotics, survival was not significantly different (0.99).

CONCLUSIONS

Higher doses of antipsychotics were associated with increased mortality in terminally ill cancer patients with delirium. To minimize the potential mortality risk, antipsychotics should be started at low doses and titrated carefully.

Effect of proton pump inhibitors on the development of hypomagnesemia induced by panitumumab

Panitumumab, a therapeutic agent for unresectable advanced/recurrent colorectal cancer, is a human IgG2 monoclonal antibody that binds to and inhibits the activity of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). The onset of hypomagnesemia is a known side effect of anti-EGFR inhibitors, including panitumumab, and it is thought that inhibition of reabsorption of Mg in renal tubules is one of the causes. In addition, recent reports have shown that long-term administration of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) reduces serum magnesium levels. Therefore, in this study, 102 patients who received oral PPIs treated with panitumumab were classified into a PPI combination group and a PPI non-combination group, and the effect of PPIs on the development of grade 2 or higher hypomagnesemia was investigated. The incidence of hypomagnesemia in the PPI combination group (46.9%, 15/32) was higher than that in the PPI non-combination group (25.7%, 18/70). A comparison of the backgrounds of the two groups of patients showed a significant difference in serum albumin levels. PPI administration was significantly associated with panitumumab-induced hypomagnesemia development when adjusted for known risk factors, serum albumin level, renal function, and oral magnesium oxide tablets in Cox proportional hazards regression analysis (hazard ratio 2.09; 95% confidence interval 1.03-4.22; P =0.040). These results indicate that detailed monitoring of serum magnesium levels is recommended for patients treated with panitumumab and co-administration of PPIs.

Pilot Study of Lemborexant for Insomnia in Cancer Patients with Delirium

Delirium occurs very frequently in cancer patients. Insomnia is a symptom of delirium. Lemborexant is a drug that regulates sleep–wake rhythms without causing extrapyramidal symptoms. Based on its ability to improve sleep, lemborexant is expected to have efficacy for insomnia with delirium. The purpose of this study was to determine the efficacy of lemborexant for insomnia in cancer patients with delirium. A retrospective observational study was conducted between July 2020 and February 2021. Fourteen patients (six females; mean age,69 years) were included. Lemborexant was effective in 11 of 14 (78.6%) patients. Of 14 patients, 10 had hyperactive delirium. Lemborexant might have similar efficacy for insomnia with and without delirium when compared with previous studies. The efficacy rate of lemborexant was 70% for patients with insomnia and hyperactive delirium. This study might lead to dose reductions of antipsychotic medications and fewer extrapyramidal symptoms in cancer patients with delirium.

Safety and effectiveness of antipsychotic medication for delirium in patients with advanced cancer: A large-scale multicenter prospective observational study in real-world palliative care settings

OBJECTIVE

To clarify the safety and effectiveness of antipsychotic medication for delirium in patients with advanced cancer receiving palliative care.

METHODS

This was a prospective observational study involving consecutive patients with advanced cancer and delirium receiving antipsychotics in inpatient hospices or psycho-oncology settings. Adjusted mean scores of the Delirium Rating Scale Revised-98 (DRS; range: 0-39) were calculated at baseline and Day 3 using generalized estimating equations. Adverse events over 7 days were evaluated.

RESULTS

Data from 756 patients were analyzed (Mage = 72 ± 11 years, 62% male, 48% bedridden). The adjusted mean DRS score significantly decreased after antipsychotics administration (21.5 [95% confidence interval 19.5 to 23.4] to 20.8 [18.9 to 22.8], p = 0.03, effect size [ES] = 0.02). Significant improvement was associated with age of 75 or older (ES = 0.07), better performance status (0.32), longer estimated prognosis (0.25), psycho-oncological consultation settings (0.20), hyperactive (0.14) or mix-motor subtypes (0.24) of delirium, and quetiapine administration (0.19); significant deterioration was observed in patients with "days" prognosis (0.18). Extrapyramidal symptoms (9.8%) and somnolence (8.5%) were the most prevalent adverse events.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of antipsychotics as part of comprehensive delirium management was safe and may provide some symptomatic benefits for patients with terminal illness and delirium. Along with adequate non-pharmacological interventions, judicious use of antipsychotics is still recommended.

Stress and coping strategies among allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation survivors: A qualitative study

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this qualitative study was to explore allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) survivors' perspectives of stresses and their coping strategies, in order to attain a deeper understanding of their experience.

METHODS

We conducted semi-structured interviews with 20 Japanese allo-HSCT survivors about the stresses they experienced and how they coped. We then conducted a content-driven thematic analysis of the interview results. The interview questions probed stresses and coping strategies related to allo-HSCT.

RESULTS

We identified 74 stresses across 7 domains: symptoms after transplantation, limitations in daily life, appearance changes, relationship anxieties, work impairment and financial issues, uncertainty and disappointed expectations. In addition, 21 coping strategies were identified across 3 domains: direct efforts to manage problems, adaptive attitude, and seeking and using social support.

CONCLUSION

By identifying a broad range of stressors associated with allo-HSCT, insight was gained as to the impact of allo-HSCT on survivors' lives. These results provide a foundation for the future development of resources for survivors, their significant others and clinicians. Stressors and coping strategies among allo-HSCT survivors were comprehensively characterised, which will provide useful information for patients and enable healthcare practitioners to provide better care.

SAT0010 ANTI-CD30 IMMUNOTHERAPY AMELIORATES BONE AND CARTILAGE DESTRUCTION IN EXPERIMENTAL MODEL OF RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS IN MICE

Background:

CD30 is a member of the TNF-receptor family and commonly expressed on lymphocytes of Hodgkin lymphoma and anaplastic large cell lymphoma. It has been reported that levels of soluble CD30 in serum and joint fluid is significantly elevated in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Although RA patients may develop lymphoproliferative disorders (LPD) as a result of immunosuppression by MTX or bDMARDs, safety medications after the regression of LPD for RA have not yet been established.

Objectives:

To explore the potential of CD30 targeting therapy for RA.

Methods:

(1) Immuno-histological staining of CD30 was performed for fresh synovial tissues of RA and osteoarthritis (OA). In addition, double immunofluorescence staining of CD30 with CD3, CD20, CD68, CD138 were performed on RA synovial tissue. (2) Brentuximab vedotin (BV) is an anti-CD30 antibody conjugated with monomethyl auristatin E, designed to induce apoptosis of CD30 expressing cells. A multiple myeloma cell line (RPMI8226) was used as a non-lymphoma cell line and plasma cell-like cell line. Immuno-cytological staining for CD30 was performed on RPMI8226. Cells were cultured and harvested on days 0, 1, and 3 to evaluate the effects of BV (50 μl / ml per well). Cytospin specimens were stained by May-Grunwald-Giemsa (MGG) staining for cell counting and by FIFC-terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) staining for detection of apoptosis. (3) Collagen antibody induced arthritis (CAIA) was induced in DBA/1 mice by arthritogenic cocktail of monoclonal antibodies against type II collagen. BV was administered to the treatment groups (30mg/kg and 70mg/kg n=4 each) and evaluated clinical score, histological findings and levels of SAA, IL-6, and TNFα in serum by ELISA. Student’st-test (two-tailed) was used to determine statistical significance for analysis of synovial tissues and cell line assay. Two way ANOVA with Dunnett’s post hoc analysis was used for multiple comparisons of mice model.

Results:

(1) The number of CD30-positive cells was significantly higher in RA synovial tissue than in OA synovial tissue (p<0.01) (Fig. 1). CD30-positive cells were detected around the lymphoid follicles. Double immunofluorescence showed CD30 and CD138 double-positive cells in the synovial tissue of RA, suggesting CD30 is predominantly expressed by plasma cells. (2) RPMI8226 cells expressed CD30. BV caused apoptosis of RPMI8226 cells, and the number of cells treated with BV decreased to 95% compared to controls. (3) All control mice (n=4) developed severe arthritis, and their scores reached a peak (score: 13.3) on day 10. In the mice of treatment group of 30 mg/kg, paw swelling was slightly decreased, their clinical score reached a peak (score: 9.3) on day 10. In contrast, paw swelling was significantly reduced in the 70 mg/kg treatment group. The peak of the clinical score was 4.3 on day 10 (Fig.2). Histological score evaluated synovitis with infiltration of inflammatory cells, pannus formation, and erosion of bone and cartilage. Histological score of hind paws were 3.0 ± 0.8 for the control group, 2.7 ± 1.0 for 30 mg/kg group, and 0.7 ± 1.1 for 70 mg/kg group (p<0.01), respectively. The serum levels of SAA and IL-6 of treatment group were lower than those of no treatment group (p<0.01).

Conclusion:

We showed the expression of CD30 on synovial tissue of RA and the expression of CD30 on plasma cells. In addition, the current study provides the first evidence that BV depletion of CD30-positive cells suppressed arthritis and osteochondral destruction in CAIA mice. Our results may provide an important clue for the development of an effective treatment for RA with iatrogenic immunodeficiency-related LPD.

Disclosure of Interests:

Minami Matsuhashi: None declared, Keiichiro Nishida Grant/research support from: K. Nishida has received scholarship donation from CHUGAI PHARMACEUTICAL Co., Eisai Co., Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma and AbbVie GK., Speakers bureau: K. Nishida has received speaking fees from CHUGAI PHARMACEUTICAL Co., Eli Lilly, Janssen Pharmaceutical K.K., Eisai Co. and AYUMI Pharmaceutical Corporation., Yoshihisa Nasu: None declared, Ryuichi Nakahara: None declared, Masahito Watanabe: None declared, Yoshifumi Hotta: None declared, Toshifumi Ozaki: None declared

SAT0068 THE RECENT INCIDENCE OF SURGICAL SITE INFECTION AND DELAYED WOUND HEALING AFTER ELECTIVE ORTHOPAEDIC SURGERIES FOR PATIENTS WITH RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS WHO TREATED WITH B/TSDMARDS

Background:

In Japan, Methotrexate (MTX) has been approved in 1999, the first biologic DMARD (bDAMRD) in 2003, and the Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors have been used since 2013. Although it is expected that the recent advancement of drug therapy would contribute the decrease in the incidence of orthopaedic surgeries by preventing structural damages1, 2), we are still facing a considerable number of patients who require surgical interventions3).

Objectives:

To investigate the recent trends of patient’s background who underwent the orthopaedic surgery for rheumatoid arthritis, number of orthopaedic intervention, and the type of the surgery.

Methods:

We reviewed the records of 1569 patients with RA who underwent orthopedic surgeries between 2004 and 2019 in our institution. The mean age of patients was 62.8 (22-88) years-old with disease duration of 20.9 (0.5-64) years. Data of these patients such as age, disease duration, medication (Glucocorticoid; GC, MTX, b/tsDMARD), type of surgeries (total joint replacement; TJR, hand surgery, foot surgery, spine surgery, and others), and preoperative serum CRP level were collected. We analyzed the annual change of these demographic and clinical data. Then, we compared them between CRP negative (<1.5g/l) and CRP positive group. Cochran-Armitage trend test,χ square test, or unpaired T-test was performed for statistical analysis. P <0.05 was considered significant.

Results:

Among all cases, 426 cases (27.2%) were treated with b/tsDMARDs at the time of operation. MTX and GC were used in 937 cases (59.7%) and 1015 cases (64.7%), respectively. The mean age and disease duration of RA showed an increasing trend, although the CRP level was dramatically decreased during the study period. While the rate of MTX use has not changed significantly (p=0.102), the number of cases treated by b/ts DMARD increased significantly to 46.7% (p<0.001). In contrast, the rate of GC use dicreased significantly (p<0.001). Although the annual number of surgeries have not changed, the proportion of cases who performed TJR decreased dramatically (59.6% in 2011, 29.5% in 2019), and the surgeries for hand and foot increased significantly (p<0.001) (Fig 1). The annual mean preoperative CRP level also decreased from 18.8±1.95 to 4.89±0.81 (Fig2). Compared to CRP positive group (n=1,113), the patients in CRP negative group (n=446) showed significantly younger age(p<0.001), shorter disease duration (p=0.031), lower late of GC use, and a higher rate of b/tsDAMRD use. The proportion of patients who underwent TJR was significantly higher in CRP positive group (p<0.001).

Conclusion:

Along with the increasing use of b/tsDMARD, the preoperative disease control of RA, as well as the type of demanded surgeries have dramatically changed.

References:

[1] Yamanaka H, Tanaka E, Nakajima A, et al. A large observational cohort study of rheumatoid arthritis, IORRA: Providing context for today’s treatment options.Mod Rheumatol2020;30:1-6.

[2] Matsumoto T, Nishino J, Izawa N, et al. Trends in Treatment, Outcomes, and Incidence of Orthopedic Surgery in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis: An Observational Cohort Study Using the Japanese National Database of Rheumatic Diseases.J Rheumatol2017;44:1575-82.

[3] Momohara S, Tanaka S, Nakamura H, et al. Recent trends in orthopedic surgery performed in Japan for rheumatoid arthritis.Mod Rheumatol2011;21:337-42.

Disclosure of Interests:

Yoshifumi Hotta: None declared, Yoshihisa Nasu: None declared, Keiichiro Nishida Grant/research support from: K. Nishida has received scholarship donation from CHUGAI PHARMACEUTICAL Co., Eisai Co., Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma and AbbVie GK., Speakers bureau: K. Nishida has received speaking fees from CHUGAI PHARMACEUTICAL Co., Eli Lilly, Janssen Pharmaceutical K.K., Eisai Co. and AYUMI Pharmaceutical Corporation., Minami Matsuhashi: None declared, Masahito Watanabe: None declared, Ryuichi Nakahara: None declared, Toshifumi Ozaki: None declared

SAT0023 THE ROLE OF ADAM12 UPREGULATED PROLIFERATION OF SYNOVIAL MEMBRANE IN RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS

Background:

ADAM12 is a member of a disintegrin and metalloproteinase family and has been reported to participate in the development of a variety of tumors by degrading ECM and shed precursors, thus promoting cell proliferation, invasion, and metastasis1). Additionally, ADAM12 is involved in chondrocyte differentiation from osteoarthritis (OA) patients by regulation of TGFβ1-induced IGF-1 and RUNX-2 expressions2). However, there is no report on the role of ADAM12 for rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Objectives:

To investigate the expression and role of ADAM12 in the synovial tissue of RA.

Methods:

(1) The expression of ADAM12 in synovial tissues from RA (18 cases), OA (5 cases) and healthy control (HC) (3 cases) was examined by immunohistochemistry. The synovial tissues of HC were obtained during surgery of hemiarthroplasty for bone tumors. Three researchers evaluated the positive cell ratio. The samples were scored according to the percentage of positive staining: 0 points (weak positive, positive expression was less than 5%), 1 point (moderate positive, positive expression was between 5% and 50%) and 2 points (strong positive, positive expression was greater than 50%). In addition, the samples were scored according to the staining intensity: 0 points (weak intensity), 1 point (moderate intensity) and 2 points (high intensity). (2) The cultured synovial fibroblasts obtained from RA patients at the surgery (RASF) were stimulated by TNFα (1, 5, 10 ng/mL), TGFβ1 (1, 5, 10 ng/mL), PDGF-BB (1, 5, 10 ng/mL) and TNFα+TGFβ1+PDGF-BB (all 10 ng/mL), and the expression levels of ADAM12 relative mRNA was examined by real-time PCR. (3) siADAM12 was transfected in RASF, and the proliferation was examined by WST-1 assay, and the expression of ADAM12 protein was examined by western blotting.

Results:

(1) ADAM12 positive cells were found in synovial lining cells, plasma cells, and vascular endothelial cells. ADAM12 was highly expressed in RA synovial tissues. The immunostaining scores of RA, OA, and HC were 3.9±0.01, 1.9±0.27, and 0.8±0.18, respectively. (2) Stimulation by TNFα, TGFβ1, and PDGF-BB resulted in the upregulation of the expression of ADAM12 relative mRNA in RASF, and TGFβ1 stimulation notably tended to increase the expression by about 5 to 6 times. (3) siADAM12 successfully suppressed the expression of ADAM12 protein and simultaneously suppressed the proliferation of RASF.

Conclusion:

ADAM12 might be involved in the pathogenesis of RA, promoting the cell proliferation of RASF.

References:

[1] Kyeiborg M, Albrechtsen R, Couchman J, et al., Cellular roles of ADAM12 in health and disease, Int J Biochem Cell Biol, 2008

[2] Masahiro H, Keiichiro N, Joe H, et al., Involvement of ADAM12 in Chondrocyte Differentiation by Regulation of TGF-beta1-Induced IGF-1 and RUNX-2 Expressions, Calcif Tissue Int, 2019

Disclosure of Interests:

Masahito Watanabe: None declared, Keiichiro Nishida Grant/research support from: K. Nishida has received scholarship donation from CHUGAI PHARMACEUTICAL Co., Eisai Co., Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma and AbbVie GK., Speakers bureau: K. Nishida has received speaking fees from CHUGAI PHARMACEUTICAL Co., Eli Lilly, Janssen Pharmaceutical K.K., Eisai Co. and AYUMI Pharmaceutical Corporation., Yoshihisa Nasu: None declared, Ryuichi Nakahara: None declared, Minami Matsuhashi: None declared, Yoshifumi Hotta: None declared, Toshifumi Ozaki: None declared

FRI0523 THE RECENT TREND OF ORTHOPAEDIC SURGERIES FOR RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS. AN ANALYSIS OF 1569 CASES FROM 2004 TO 2019

Background:

In Japan, Methotrexate (MTX) has been approved in 1999, the first biologic DMARD (bDAMRD) in 2003, and the Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors have been used since 2013. Although it is expected that the recent advancement of drug therapy would contribute the decrease in the incidence of orthopaedic surgeries by preventing structural damages1, 2), we are still facing a considerable number of patients who require surgical interventions3).

Objectives:

To investigate the recent trends of patient’s background who underwent the orthopaedic surgery for rheumatoid arthritis, number of orthopaedic intervention, and the type of the surgery.

Methods:

We reviewed the records of 1569 patients with RA who underwent orthopedic surgeries between 2004 and 2019 in our institution. The mean age of patients was 62.8 (22-88) years-old with disease duration of 20.9 (0.5-64) years. Data of these patients such as age, disease duration, medication (Glucocorticoid; GC, MTX, b/tsDMARD), type of surgeries (total joint replacement; TJR, hand surgery, foot surgery, spine surgery, and others), and preoperative serum CRP level were collected. We analyzed the annual change of these demographic and clinical data. Then, we compared them between CRP negative (<1.5g/l) and CRP positive group. Cochran-Armitage trend test,χ square test, or unpaired T-test was performed for statistical analysis. P <0.05 was considered significant.

Results:

Among all cases, 426 cases (27.2%) were treated with b/tsDMARDs at the time of operation. MTX and GC were used in 937 cases (59.7%) and 1015 cases (64.7%), respectively. The mean age and disease duration of RA showed an increasing trend, although the CRP level was dramatically decreased during the study period. While the rate of MTX use has not changed significantly (p=0.102), the number of cases treated by b/ts DMARD increased significantly to 46.7% (p<0.001). In contrast, the rate of GC use dicreased significantly (p<0.001). Although the annual number of surgeries have not changed, the proportion of cases who performed TJR decreased dramatically (59.6% in 2011, 29.5% in 2019), and the surgeries for hand and foot increased significantly (p<0.001) (Fig 1). The annual mean preoperative CRP level also decreased from 18.8±1.95 to 4.89±0.81 (Fig 2). Compared to CRP positive group (n=1,113), the patients in CRP negative group (n=446) showed significantly younger age(p<0.001), shorter disease duration (p=0.031), lower late of GC use, and a higher rate of b/tsDAMRD use. The proportion of patients who underwent TJR was significantly higher in CRP positive group (p<0.001).

Conclusion:

Along with the increasing use of b/tsDMARD, the preoperative disease control of RA, as well as the type of demanded surgeries have dramatically changed.

References:

[1] Yamanaka H, Tanaka E, Nakajima A, et al. A large observational cohort study of rheumatoid arthritis, IORRA: Providing context for today’s treatment options.Mod Rheumatol2020;30:1-6.

[2] Matsumoto T, Nishino J, Izawa N, et al. Trends in Treatment, Outcomes, and Incidence of Orthopedic Surgery in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis: An Observational Cohort Study Using the Japanese National Database of Rheumatic Diseases.J Rheumatol2017;44:1575-82.

[3] Momohara S, Tanaka S, Nakamura H, et al. Recent trends in orthopedic surgery performed in Japan for rheumatoid arthritis.Mod Rheumatol2011;21:337-42.

Disclosure of Interests:

Yoshifumi Hotta: None declared, Yoshihisa Nasu: None declared, Keiichiro Nishida Grant/research support from: K. Nishida has received scholarship donation from CHUGAI PHARMACEUTICAL Co., Eisai Co., Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma and AbbVie GK., Speakers bureau: K. Nishida has received speaking fees from CHUGAI PHARMACEUTICAL Co., Eli Lilly, Janssen Pharmaceutical K.K., Eisai Co. and AYUMI Pharmaceutical Corporation., Minami Matsuhashi: None declared, Masahito Watanabe: None declared, Ryuichi Nakahara: None declared, Toshifumi Ozaki: None declared

AB0216 POWER DOPPLER SCORE IS USEFUL TO PREDICT JOINT DESTRUCTION OF HAND AND WRIST JOINT IN RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS PATIENTS

Background:

Several studies demonstrated that total power Doppler (PD) signal can predict radiographic progression as a change in total van der Heijde-modified total Sharp score (mTSS) in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients. However, in some studies, radiographic progression was observed in a different joint compared with the site of a positive PD signal at baseline in many cases.

Objectives:

The aim of this study was to identify the clinical factor of RA patients in association with radiographic progression of hands and wrists and to investigate which joint showed radiographic progression in RA patients. We focused on the correlation of the site of a positive PD signal and the site of radiographic progression.

Methods:

We examined retrospectively of 70 RA patients (67 women, three men) who underwent ultrasonography (US) examination at 32 regions on bilateral hands and wrists from 2014 to 2016. Radiographs of the hands were taken at baseline and at least one year after US (mean, 19.9 months), and radiographic progression was assessed using mTSS system. We performed multivariate logistic regression analysis to investigate the association between baseline factors and radiographic progression. The relationships between radiographic progression of the individual joint and total/each joint PD score were assessed by ROC analysis and Fisher’s exact test.

Results:

Nineteen patients (37.3%) experienced progression of mTSS of hands and wrists. DAS28-CRP (P=0.02) and total PD score (P=0.01) were associated with radiographic progression, and total PD score was significantly associated with radiographic progression (OR 1.22; 95% CI 1.04-1.36; P=0.006) by multivariate logistic regression analysis (Table 1).

Table 1.

Association between the demographic and clinical findings at baseline and radiographic progression over 12 months

a.univariate analysisNo radiographicprogression(n = 51)Radiographicprogression(n = 19)P-valueAge, years63.4 ± 12.758.1 ± 10.60.61Duration of RA, years24.4 ± 13.620.0 ± 5.00.28Usage of Bio, %42.240.40.57Amount of MTX, mg/week4.8 ± 3.34.5 ± 4.30.77Amount of PSL, mg1.5 ± 2.11.8 ± 2.20.73DAS28-CRP2.5 ± 0.72.9 ± 0.60.02*CRP, mg/dl0.4 ± 0.50.7 ± 0.70.10Total PD score2.4 ± 3.36.6 ± 6.10.01*b.multivariate analysisodds ratio95% CIP-valueDAS28-CRP1.630.72 - 3.710.238Total PD score1.191.04 - 1.360.010*

Predictive performance of total PD score was good for radiographic progression of MCP joint (AUC-ROC 0.91) and wrist joint (AUC-ROC 0.85), although poor for PIP joint (AUC-ROC 0.57).

PD score of wrist joint, MCP joint, and PIP joint were significantly associated with radiographic progression of each joint (P<0.01). The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of wrist joint PD score were 100%, 57.0%, 8.0%, and 100%, MCP joint PD score were 85.7%, 90.5%, 8.0%, 99.8%, and 8.3%, and PIP joint PD score were 30.0%, 97.2%, 13.6%, and 99.0%, respectively.

Conclusion:

Total PD score of hands and wrists was a strong predictor of radiographic progression, especially in MCP and wrist joint. Evaluation of PD signal in individual joint is a clinically useful method to predict radiographic progression of the same joint, however there are some differences in sensitivity and specificity.

References:

[1]Brown AK, et al. Arthritis & Rheumatism. 2008;58:2958-2967.

[2]McQueen F, et al. Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases. 2011;70:241-244.

Disclosure of Interests:

Shunji Okita: None declared, Ryuichi Nakahara: None declared, Minami Matsuhashi: None declared, Masahito Watanabe: None declared, Yoshihisa Nasu: None declared, Keiichiro Nishida Grant/research support from: K. Nishida has received scholarship donation from CHUGAI PHARMACEUTICAL Co., Eisai Co., Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma and AbbVie GK., Speakers bureau: K. Nishida has received speaking fees from CHUGAI PHARMACEUTICAL Co., Eli Lilly, Janssen Pharmaceutical K.K., Eisai Co. and AYUMI Pharmaceutical Corporation., Toshifumi Ozaki: None declared

FRI0580 DISCORDANCE BETWEEN OBJECTIVE ELBOW ASSESSMENT AND PATIENTS REPORTED OUTCOMES (PROS) AFTER TOTAL ELBOW ARTHROPLASTY IN PATIENTS WITH RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS

Background:

Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) have become widespread in daily clinical evaluation in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). However, there are few reports for the relationship or discordance between the subjective assessment by the physician and the objective assessment by the patient with RA in surgical treatment.

Objectives:

We examined the relationship or discordance about the PROs in patients with RA who underwent total elbow arthroplasty (TEA).

Methods:

We retrospectively identified 53 elbows of 48 patients with RA who underwent TEA at Okayama University Hospital, collected from January 2012 to December 2016.

We collected clinical data for the grip strength, range of motion, the Mayo Elbow Performance Scale (MEPS) as objective assessments, and the Patient-Related Elbow Evaluation (PREE), Disability of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) Japanese version and Hand20 as subjective assessments.

For statistical analysis, we performed t-tests for pre- and post-operative physical findings and subjective evaluations, and Spearman rank correlation to examine the relationship between objective and subjective assessments.

Results:

The mean age of the patients at the time of arthroplasty was 63 years, the average disease duration was 23 years, and the average postoperative observation period was 32 months. The average DAS28-CRP was 3.01, and biological uses were 18 cases.

The range of motion of the elbow joint and the grip strength was significantly improved postoperatively. All outcome assessments improved significantly except for HAQ (see table1).

There was significantly correlated PREE with DASH, Hand20, and MEPS preoperatively. Postoperative PREE showed a significant and robust correlation in postoperative DASH, Hand20, whereas not associated with postoperative MEPS (see table2).

To investigate the discordance between PREE and MEPS after TEA, we focused on changes in each item of PREE. Pain- and reach-related items improved postoperatively. But, it was difficult to improve in items affected by hand and finger functions, such as “tie shoelaces.”

To explore the effects of finger and hand functions on postoperative assessments, we performed multiple regression analyses. Both preoperative grip strength (unstandardized coefficient [Β] =-0.07; 95%CI -0.148 to -0.006, t value=-2.18, P=0.03) and preoperative Hand20 (B = 0.27, 95%CI 0.029 - 0.518, t=2.25, p=0.02) were significant predictors of postoperative PREE.

Conclusion:

Surprisingly, the PROs of patients and the surgeon’s evaluations correlated well before surgery but resulted in discordance after TEA. We improved elbow functions by TEA, but since rheumatoid arthritis was a polyarticular disorder, improvement of a single joint function did not improve utterly subjective assessment in patients with RA. We found that the upper limb functions after TEA were significantly affected by preoperative finger and hand function. A rheumatologist should consider the dysfunctions of finger and hand when planning for elbow surgery in patients with RA.

Table 1.

Pre- and postoperative range of motion of elbow and forearm, grip strength, and measurement

CharacteristicPreoperativePostoperativeP valueElbow flexion, degree116 ± 19134 ± 9< 0.001- extension-34 ± 21-25 ± 160.005- total arc82 ± 32109 ± 19< 0.001Grip power, mmHg106 ± 66130 ± 740.007DASH50.5 ± 20.535.8 ± 25.4< 0.001Hand2060.4 ± 19.138.9 ± 29.6< 0.001PREE55.6 ± 18.818.5 ± 17.1< 0.001- pain29.7 ± 11.36.5 ± 7.9< 0.001- function25.9 ± 11.512.0 ± 11.9< 0.001- specific function56.9 ± 25.525.4 ± 25.3< 0.001- usual function20.8 ± 11.310.5 ± 11.3< 0.001HAQ-DI1.06 ± 0.701.07 ± 0.800.607MEPS51.3 ± 16.697.9 ± 3.6< 0.001Table 2.

Spearman’s correlation coefficients for pre- and postoperative PREE score*

QuestionnairePreoperative Correlation estimateP valuePostoperative Correlation estimateP valueDASH0.56< 0.00010.84< 0.0001Hand200.58< 0.00010.84< 0.0001MEPS- 0.39< 0.01-0.27N.S.

Disclosure of Interests:

ryozo harada: None declared, Keiichiro Nishida Grant/research support from: K. Nishida has received scholarship donation from CHUGAI PHARMACEUTICAL Co., Eisai Co., Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma and AbbVie GK., Speakers bureau: K. Nishida has received speaking fees from CHUGAI PHARMACEUTICAL Co., Eli Lilly, Janssen Pharmaceutical K.K., Eisai Co. and AYUMI Pharmaceutical Corporation., Yoshihisa Nasu: None declared, Ryuichi Nakahara: None declared

Venous thromboembolisms and rheology in ovarian cancer patients after postoperative adjuvant paclitaxel and carboplatin therapy

In ovarian cancer patients, chemotherapy can be an independent risk factor for the development of thromboembolic complications, such as venous thromboembolism (VTE). The factors and their values that lead to the development of VTE are remaining unknown in patients undergoing chemotherapy with paclitaxel and carboplatin. This study investigated serial rheological parameters (D-dimer, red blood cell count, hematocrit, and plasma viscosity) for VTE that developed following chemotherapy for ovarian cancer. Forty-eight ovarian cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy were enrolled in this study. A significant difference in the mean values of plasma viscosity and hematocrit was observed between the VTE group (n = 5) and the non-VTE group (n = 43) (P < 0.10). Univariate and multiple regression analyses by stepwise selection identified plasma viscosity as the independent variable associated with VTE development. The VTE incidence was the same as in previous reports. The results support the contention that plasma viscosity could be an index for development of VTE in ovarian cancer after chemotherapy.

Current Pharmacotherapy Does Not Improve Severity of Hypoactive Delirium in Patients with Advanced Cancer: Pharmacological Audit Study of Safety and Efficacy in Real World (Phase-R)

BACKGROUND

Pharmacotherapy is generally recommended to treat patients with delirium. We sought to describe the current practice, effectiveness, and adverse effects of pharmacotherapy for hypoactive delirium in patients with advanced cancer, and to explore predictors of the deterioration of delirium symptoms after starting pharmacotherapy.

SUBJECTS, MATERIALS, AND METHODS

We included data of patients with advanced cancer who were diagnosed with hypoactive delirium and received pharmacotherapy for treatment of delirium. This was a pharmacovigilance study characterized by prospective registries and systematic data-recording using internet technology, conducted among 38 palliative care teams and/or units. The severity of delirium and other outcomes were assessed using established measures at days 0 (T0), 3 (T1), and 7 (T2).

RESULTS

Available data were obtained from 218 patients. The most frequently used agent was haloperidol (37%). A total of 67 and 42 patients (31% and 19%) had died or discontinued pharmacotherapy by T1 and T2, respectively. Delirium symptoms deteriorated between T0 and T1, but this trend did not reach statistical significance. The most prevalent adverse event was sedation (9%). Delirium severity worsened after starting pharmacotherapy in 121 patients (56%) at T1. In patients whose death was expected within a few days and those with delirium caused by organ failure, symptoms of delirium were significantly more likely to deteriorate after starting pharmacotherapy.

CONCLUSION

Current pharmacotherapy for hypoactive delirium in patients with advanced cancer is not recommended, especially in those whose death is expected within a few days and in those with delirium caused by organ failure.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

Delirium is common among patients with advanced cancer, and hypoactive delirium is the dominant motor subtype in the palliative care setting. Pharmacotherapy is recommended and regularly used to treat delirium. This article describes the effectiveness and adverse effects of pharmacotherapy for hypoactive delirium in patients with advanced cancer. The findings of this study do not support the use of pharmacotherapy for treatment of hypoactive delirium in the palliative care setting. Pharmacotherapy should especially be avoided in patients whose death is expected within a few days and in those with delirium caused by organ failure.

Electronic Cigarette Use and Smoking Abstinence in Japan: A Cross-Sectional Study of Quitting Methods

The benefit of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) in smoking cessation remains controversial. Recently, e-cigarettes have been gaining popularity in Japan, without evidence of efficacy on quitting cigarettes. We conducted an online survey to collect information on tobacco use, difficulties in smoking cessation, socio-demographic factors, and health-related factors in Japan. Among the total participants (n = 9055), 798 eligible persons aged 20-69 years who smoked within the previous five years were analyzed to assess the relationship between the outcome of smoking cessation and quitting methods used, including e-cigarettes, smoking cessation therapy, and unassisted. E-cigarette use was negatively associated with smoking cessation (odds ratio (OR) = 0.632; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.414-0.964) after adjusting for gender, age, health-related factors, and other quitting methods. Conversely, smoking cessation therapy (i.e., varenicline) was significantly associated with smoking cessation (OR = 1.885; 95% CI = 1.018-3.492) in the same model. For effective smoking cessation, e-cigarette use appears to have low efficacy among smokers in Japan. Allowing for the fact that this study is limited by its cross-sectional design, follow-up studies are needed to assess the prospective association between e-cigarette use and smoking cessation.

A dosimetric comparison of RapidArc and IMRT with hypofractionated simultaneous integrated boost to the prostate for treatment of prostate cancer

OBJECTIVE

To compare the dosimetric results and treatment delivery efficiency among RapidArc® (Varian Medical Systems, Palo Alto, CA), 7-field intensity-modulated radiotherapy (7-f IMRT) and 9-field IMRT (9-f IMRT) with hypofractionated simultaneous integrated boost to the prostate.

METHODS

RapidArc, 7-f IMRT and 9-f IMRT plans were created for 21 consecutive patients treated for high-risk prostate cancer using the Eclipse™ treatment planning system (Varian Medical Systems). All plans were designed to deliver 70.0 Gy in 28 fractions to the prostate planning target volume (PTV) while simultaneously delivering 50.4 Gy in 28 fractions to the pelvic nodal PTV. Target coverage and sparing of organs at risk (OARs) were compared across techniques. The total number of monitor units (MUs) and the treatment time were used to assess treatment delivery efficiency.

RESULTS

RapidArc resulted in slightly superior conformity and homogeneity of prostate PTV, whereas all plans were comparable with respect to dose to the nodal PTV. Although OARs sparing for RapidArc and 7-f IMRT plans were almost equivalent, 9-f IMRT achieved better sparing of the rectum and bladder than RapidArc and 7-f IMRT. RapidArc provided the highest treatment delivery efficiency with the lowest MUs and shortest treatment time.

CONCLUSION

RapidArc resulted in similar OAR sparing to 7-f IMRT, whereas 9-f IMRT provided the best OAR sparing. Treatment delivery efficiency is significantly higher for RapidArc.

ADVANCES IN KNOWLEDGE

This study validated the feasibility and limitations of RapidArc in the treatment of high-risk prostate cancer with complex pelvic target volumes.

[Merits and surgical procedure for conducting transmanubrial osteomuscular sparing approach for lung cancer invading the anterior part of the thoracic inlet]

The surgical technique to achieve complete resection for superior sulcus tumor invading major anatomical sites including the subclavian vessels is challenging. The anterior transcervical-thoracic approach applied by Dartevelle and colleagues provides excellent exposure of the subclavian vessels. Grunenwald and associates have improved on this approach to preserve the clavicle and sternoclavicular joint. This paper describes the merits of this approach and details how to perform this surgical procedure.

Intra-arterial chemoradiotherapy for locally advanced oral cavity cancer: analysis of therapeutic results in 134 cases

The objective of this study was to investigate the therapeutic results of arterial injection therapy via the superficial temporal artery for 134 cases of stages III and IV (M0) oral cavity cancer retrospectively, and to clarify the prognostic factors. We administered intra-arterial chemoradiotherapy by continuous infusion of carboplatin in 65 cases from January 1993 to July 2002. Systemic chemotherapy was performed on 26 cases at the same time. We administered intra-arterial chemoradiotherapy by cisplatin with sodium thiosulphate in 69 cases from October 2002 to December 2006. Systemic chemotherapy was performed on 48 cases at the same time. The 3-year local control rate was 68.6% (T2-3: 77.9%; T4: 51.3%), and the 3-year survival rate was 53.9% (stage III: 62.9%; stage IV: 45.3%). Regarding the results of multivariate analysis of survival rates, age (<65), selective intra-arterial infusion, and the use of cisplatin as an agent for intra-arterial infusion were significant factors. The therapeutic results of intra-arterial chemoradiotherapy via the superficial temporal artery were not inferior to the results of surgery. In particular, the results of arterial injection therapy by cisplatin with sodium thiosulphate were excellent, so we believe that it will be a new therapy for advanced oral cavity cancer.