Translation, transcultural adaptation into Brazilian Portuguese and concurrent validity of the rheumatoid arthritis assessment scale (RAKAS-13/Brazil)

Abstract Background Knowledge of patients about Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a necessary aspect to better approach self-management support in a patient-centered manner. The research instrument known as the Rheumatoid Arthritis Knowledge Assessment Scale (RAKAS), consisting of 13 items, is simple, reliable and reproducible, and can be applied in both clinical practice and research protocols. Objectives This study aimed to translate and culturally adapt the RAKAS vocabulary into Brazilian Portuguese and to evaluate its concurrent validity. Methods The RAKAS was translated into Brazilian Portuguese and administered to 52 elderly women with RA recruited between May 2021 and May 2022. Concurrent validity was assessed using the Spearman's correlation coefficient between RAKAS and Patient Knowledge Questionnaire (PKQ). Results The participants considered RAKAS-13/BRAZIL easy to understand and did not report any doubts in answering the final version. Concurrent validity of the RAKAS-13/BRAZIL was low compared to the PKQ (ρ = 0.283, p = 0.038). Conclusion The Brazilian Portuguese version of the RAKAS (RAKAS-13/BRASIL) proved to be a questionnaire that was easy and quick to administer to assess patient knowledge about Rheumatoid Arthritis, despite its low correlation with the PKQ in the present study.

Clinical characteristics of patients with rheumatic diseases and abnormal liver function / 中华内科杂志

Objective:To investigate the clinical characteristics of patients with rheumatic diseases and abnormal liver function, as well as determine the proportion and severity of liver function abnormalities.Methods:Cross-sectional study. Data were collected from patients registered in the Chinese Rheumatism Date Center from 2011 to 2021. The rheumatic diseases analyzed in this study were rheumatoid arthritis (RA), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), Sjogren syndrome (SS), ankylosing spondylitis (AS), and gout. Patient data, including demographic characteristics [ such as age, sex, body mass index,(BMI), and smoking history], liver function test results [including alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase(ALP), and total bilirubin], and use of anti-rheumatic immune drugs and liver-protective drugs, were collected and compared between groups with normal and abnormal liver functions. In addition, the proportions of abnormal liver function were compared between sex and age groups.Results:A total of 116 308 patients were included in this study, including 49 659 with RA, 17 597 with SLE, 9 039 with SS, 11 321 with AS, and 28 692 with gout. The lowest proportion of liver function abnormalities was observed in patients with RA[11.02% (5 470/49 659)], followed by those with SS[17.97% (1 624/9 039)] and AS [18.22% (2 063/11 321) ], whereas patients with SLE [21.14% (3 720/17 597) ] and gout [28.73% (8 242/28 692)] exhibited the highest proportion of these abnormalities. Elevated ALT, mostly classified as grade 1, was the most commonly noted liver function abnormality, whereas elevated ALP was the least common. Some patients who took liver-protective drugs had normal liver function, with the lowest percentage observed in patients with gout [7.45% (36/483) ] and ranging from 21.7% to 30.34% in patients with RA, SLE, SS, and AS. The proportion of liver function abnormalities was higher in males than in females for all disease types [RA: 13.8%(1 368/9 906) vs. 10.3%(4 102/39 753); SLE: 33.6% (479/1 424) vs. 20.0% (3 241/16 173); SS: 25.4%(111/437) vs. 17.6%(1 513/8 602); AS: 20.1%(1 629/8 119) vs. 13.6% (434/3 202); and gout: 29.3% (8 033/27 394) vs. 16.1% (209/1 298)]. In RA, SLE, and AS, the proportions of liver function abnormalities were similar across all age groups. In SS, the proportion of liver function abnormalities increased with age [<40 years: 14.9%(294/1 979); 40-59 years: 18.1%(858/4 741); ≥60 years: 20.4%(472/2 319)], whereas a reversal of this trend was observed in gout [<40 years: 34.9%(4 294/12 320); 40-59 years: 25.5%(2 905/11 398);≥60 years: 21.0%(1 042/4 971)].Conclusions:The proportions of combined liver function abnormalities in patients with rheumatologic diseases were high, and the utilization rates of liver-protective drugs were low. It is necessary to pay more attention to monitoring patients′ liver function, timely administer liver-protective drugs, and optimize liver-protective regimens during the treatment of rheumatic diseases.

Manifestaciones neurológicas en una paciente con lupus eritematoso sistémico / Neurological manifestations in a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus

El lupus eritematoso sistémico es una enfermedad inflamatoria sistémica cuyo proceso inflamatorio genera un importante número de manifestaciones clínicas articulares y extraarticulares. Entre las manifestaciones extraarticulares destaca la afectación neurológica, y el compromiso puede ser tanto a nivel del sistema nervioso central o periférico. El objetivo de la presente investigación es presentar el caso de una paciente de 56 años de edad, con diagnóstico de lupus eritematoso sistémico de 18 años de evolución quien presentó un cuadro crónico de cefalea, neuropatía periférica y miastenia gravis como manifestaciones neurológicas de la enfermedad. Con el tratamiento de ciclofosfamida y el aumento de la dosis de esteroide, en la actualidad la paciente se encuentra estable. El reporte de este caso hace hincapié en la importancia que revisten las manifestaciones neurológicas como parte de las manifestaciones extraarticulares de esta enfermedad, ya que este tipo de afección es determinante en el curso del lupus eritematoso sistémico y en la calidad de vida de los pacientes(AU)

Systemic lupus erythematosus is a systemic inflammatory disease whose inflammatory process generates a significant number of articular and extra-articular clinical manifestations. Within the extra-articular manifestations, neurological involvement stands out, among others, the commitment can be both at the level of the central or peripheral nervous system. The objective of the present investigation is to present the case of a 56-year-old patient, diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus of 18 years of evolution and who has presented chronic symptoms of headache, peripheral neuropathy and myasthenia gravis as neurological manifestations of the illness. The report of this case is considered important to publicize the importance of neurological manifestations as part of the extra-articular manifestations of this disease; this type of condition is decisive in the course of the disease and in the quality of life of patients(AU)

Esclerodermia localizada en escolar de 10 años / Localized scleroderma in a 10-year-old schoolgirl

Dentro del grupo de enfermedades reumáticas la esclerodermia es una de las de menor frecuencia de presentación, por lo que muchos autores la consideran una enfermedad rara. Aunque afecta predominantemente a pacientes adultos, en ocasiones se presenta en edades pediátricas y sus formas localizadas son las manifestaciones más frecuentes a estas edades. El objetivo del presente reporte es presentar el caso de una escolar de 10 años de edad, con un cuadro de lesión en la piel de 3 años de evolución a la cual se le diagnostica, mediante las características clínicas y los resultados de estudios anatomopatológicos una esclerodermia localizada profunda. En la actualidad la paciente se mantiene en régimen de seguimiento multidisciplinario. Este reporte de caso es importante para compartir con la comunidad médica los elementos básicos relacionados con el diagnóstico y tratamiento de esta enfermedad, como alternativa a la reducción de las complicaciones que genera(AU)

Within the group of rheumatic diseases, scleroderma is one of those with the lowest frequency of presentation; being considered a rare disease by many authors. Although it has a predominance of affectation in adult patients, it sometimes occurs in pediatric ages, its localized forms being the most frequent forms of presentation. The objective of this report is to present the case of a 10-year-old schoolgirl, with a 3-year history of skin lesions, which was diagnosed, through clinical characteristics and results of pathological studies, as deep localized scleroderma. The case report is considered important to share with the medical community the basic elements related to the diagnosis and treatment of this disease, as an alternative to reducing the complications it generates(AU)

Actividad del sistema inmune en pacientes reumáticos

Las enfermedades reumáticas son un grupo de afecciones, la mayoría de ellas con afectación inmunológica y compromiso sistémico, que generan distintos grados de discapacidad funcional y disminución de la percepción de calidad de vida de los pacientes que las padecen. Constituyen una de las primeras causas de discapacidad, de invalidez temporal y definitiva, de afectación laboral y se sitúan dentro de los 10 primeros motivos de consultas en el primer nivel de atención de salud. Los pacientes con este tipo de enfermedad han sido considerados como pacientes inmunodeprimidos lo cual no se corresponde directamente con los mecanismos de producción de la gran mayoría de las enfermedades reumáticas. En el presente reporte se abordan los mitos y realidades que engloban a las enfermedades reumáticas y la supuesta inmunosupresión que generan, desde la perspectiva etiopatogénica. El esclarecimiento de estos elementos es indispensable para poder enfrentar adecuadamente, desde el punto de vista terapéutico y de autocuidado a los pacientes con enfermedades reumáticas. Se concluye, que con base en los elementos etiopatogénicos de las enfermedades reumáticas y el análisis de la expresión de la respuesta inmunológica normal y en pacientes reumáticos, estos no pueden ser considerados como personas inmunodeprimidas. La prescripción de inmunosupresores se realiza con la finalidad de restaurar la respuesta inmunológica normal.

Rheumatic diseases are a group of conditions, most of them with immunological affectation and systemic compromise, which generate different degrees of functional disability and decrease in the perception of quality of life of the patients who suffer from them. They constitute one of the main causes of disability, of temporary and definitive invalidity, of labor affectation and are among the first 10 reasons for consultations in the first level of health care. Patients with this type of disease have been considered immunocompromised, which does not correspond directly to the mechanisms of production of the vast majority of rheumatic diseases. This report addresses the myths and realities that encompass rheumatic diseases and the supposed immunosuppression they generate, from the etiopathogenic perspective of this group of diseases. The clarification of these elements is essential to be able to deal adequately, from the therapeutic and self-care point of view, with patients with rheumatic diseases. It is concluded that, based on the etiopathogenic elements of rheumatic diseases and the analysis of the expression of the normal immune response and in rheumatic patients, these cannot be considered as immunosuppressed people. The prescription of immunosuppressants is made in order to restore the normal immune response.

Aspectos clínico-epidemiológicos de la osteoartritis en el Hospital Provincial de Zaire, Angola

Introducción: La osteoartritis es una enfermedad articular crónica degenerativa con componente inflamatorio caracterizado por degeneración y pérdida progresiva del cartílago hialino y hueso subcondral y daño del tejido sinovial. Objetivo: Describir los aspectos clínicos y epidemiológicos de los pacientes con diagnóstico de osteoartritis en el Hospital Provincial de Zaire en la República de Angola, en el período comprendido entre septiembre de 2021 a septiembre de 2022. Método: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo, de cohorte longitudinal, con datos del Departamento de Ortopedia y Traumatología de dicha institución. El universo estuvo constituido por 489 pacientes, la muestra del estudio quedó conformada por n꓿167. Se realizaron pruebas de correlación bivariable con el análisis del coeficiente de correlación de Pearson. Resultados: El grupo etario predominante fue de 61 a 70 años (28,7 %), con predominio del sexo femenino (58,1 %), con un tiempo de evolución mayor a 5 años (35,9 %), la articulación mayormente afectada fue la rodilla con 62 pacientes. Se demostró que existe una correlación positiva considerable entre el tiempo de evolución de la enfermedad y el grado de discapacidad, mediante valor del coeficiente de Pearson (0,407), resultado que muestra significación estadística. Conclusiones: La osteoartritis es una enfermedad degenerativa de etiología variada que se presenta en edades tempranas, con mayor frecuencia en el sexo femenino asociada a la articulación de la rodilla, existiendo correlación entre el tiempo de evolución con el grado de discapacidad que produce.

Introduction: Osteoarthritis is a chronic degenerative joint disease, with an inflammatory component included, its characterized by degeneration and progressive loss of hyaline cartilage and subchondral bone and also for synovial tissue damage. Objective: To describe the clinical and epidemiological aspects of patients diagnosed with osteoarthritis at the Provincial Hospital of Zaire in the Republic of Angola, from September 2021 to September 2022. Method: A descriptive, longitudinal cohort study was carried out using the data gathered from the Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology of the institution. The universe consisted of 489 patients and the study sample consisted of n꓿167. Bivariate correlation tests were performed using the Pearson's correlation coefficient analysis. Results: The predominant age group was 61 to 70 years old (28.7%), with women sex as predominant (58.1%), with an evolution time of more than 5 years (35.9%), and the knee was the most affected joint (observed in 62 patients). A considerable positive correlation between the time of the disease evolution and the degree of disability was demonstrated using the Pearson's coefficient value (0.407), value that shows a great statistical significance. Conclusions: Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease of varied etiology that occurs at early ages, more frequently in the female sex associated with the knee joint, and there is a correlation between the time of evolution and the degree of disability produces by the disease.

Introdução: A osteoartrite é uma doença articular degenerativa crônica com componente inflamatório caracterizada por degeneração e perda progressiva da cartilagem hialina e lesão do osso subcondral e tecido sinovial. Objetivo: Descrever os aspectos clínicos e epidemiológicos dos pacientes diagnosticados com osteoartrite no Hospital Provincial do Zaire na República de Angola, no período de setembro de 2021 a setembro de 2022. Método: Foi realizado um estudo descritivo, de coorte, longitudinal, com dados do Departamento de Ortopedia e Traumatologia da referida instituição. O universo foi composto por 489 pacientes, a amostra do estudo foi composta por n꓿167. Os testes de correlação bivariada foram realizados por meio da análise do coeficiente de correlação de Pearson. Resultados: A faixa etária predominante foi de 61 a 70 anos (28,7%), com predominância do sexo feminino (58,1%), com tempo de evolução superior a 5 anos (35,9%), a articulação mais acometida foi o joelho com 62 pacientes. Foi demonstrado que existe uma correlação positiva considerável entre o tempo de evolução da doença e o grau de incapacidade, através do valor do coeficiente de Pearson (0,407), resultado que apresenta significância estatística. Conclusões: A osteoartrite é uma doença degenerativa de etiologia variada que ocorre em idade precoce, mais frequentemente no sexo feminino associada à articulação do joelho, havendo correlação entre o tempo de evolução com o grau de incapacidade que produz.

Frecuencia de comorbilidades en pacientes con artritis psoriásica y evaluación de la adherencia de los médicos a las recomendaciones de tratamiento de las Guías GRAPPA 2015 / Frequency of comorbidities in patients with psoriatic arthritis and evaluation of the adherence of physicians to the treatment recommendations of the GRAPPA 2015 Guidelines

Introducción: los pacientes con artritis psoriásica (APs) presentan más comorbilidades. Las guías del Group for Research and Assessment of Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis (GRAPPA) establecen lineamientos para los tratamientos de acuerdo a ellas. Objetivos: describir la prevalencia de comorbilidades en pacientes con APs según el Rheumatic Disease Comorbidity Index (RDCI), analizar el efecto sobre la enfermedad y estudiar la adherencia a las guías GRAPPA. Materiales y métodos: estudio observacional. Se incluyeron pacientes con APs de la cohorte RAPSODIA. Se reportaron características sociodemográficas y clínicas. Las comorbilidades se valoraron por RDCI. Se estudiaron variables asociadas a RDCI ≥1 mediante análisis multivariado. Se analizó el cumplimiento de las recomendaciones de tratamiento en relación a las comorbilidades según las guías GRAPPA. Resultados: se incluyeron 170 pacientes. El 67,6% presentó al menos una comorbilidad (RDCI ≥1); estos eran de mayor edad (X 57,3±12,7 años vs. 48,2±13,2 años; p<0,0001), presentaban más sobrepeso u obesidad (84,3% vs. 67,3%; p=0,011) y peor calidad de vida (PsAQoL X 7,6±6,6 vs. 5,2±6; p=0,025). El análisis multivariado evidenció asociación de la edad y el uso de antiinflamatorios no esteroideos (AINEs) con RDCI ≥1. Contrariamente a las recomendaciones de GRAPPA, el 70% de los pacientes con cardiopatía utilizaba AINEs, y la mitad de aquellos con enfermedades hepáticas o renales tomaba AINEs o metotrexato. Conclusiones: la prevalencia de comorbilidades en los pacientes con APs es alta. En algunos casos no se cumplían las recomendaciones de tratamiento en relación a las comorbilidades.

Introduction: comorbidities are common in patients with psoriatic arthritis (PsA). The GRAPPA (Group for Research and Assessment of Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis) guidelines strengthen the choice of treatments according to them. Objetives: to describe the prevalence of comorbidities in patients with psoriatic arthritis according to Rheumatic Disease Comorbidity Index (RDCI) and to analyze the influence of them on disease activity, functional capacity and quality life and to assess adherence to GRAPPA 2015 treatment recommendations according to the presence of comorbidities. Materials and methods: adult patients with PsA (CASPAR criteria) from the RAPSODIA cohort were included. Sociodemographic and clinical characteristics, disease activity and current treatment were recorded. Comorbidities were assessed by the RDCI. Variables associated with RDCI≥1 were studied by multivariate analysis. Adherence to treatment recommendations in relation to the reported comorbidities was analyzed according to the 2015 GRAPPA guidelines. Results: a total of 170 patients were included. Patients with RDCI ≥1 were reported by 67.6%. These patients were older (57±13 years vs 48±13 years, p<0.0001), had a higher frequency of overweight or obesity (84.3% vs 67.3%, p=0.011), and had a poorer quality of life (PsAQoL 7.6±6.6 vs 5.2±6, p=0.025). The multivariate analysis showed an association between age and the use of NSAIDs with RDCI≥1. Contrary to GRAPPA recommendations, 70% of patients with heart disease were using NSAIDs. Moreover, about half of those with hepatic or kidney disease took NSAIDs or methotrexate. Conclusions: most patients with PsA presented at least one comorbidity. GRAPPA recommendations were not followed in a considerable number of patients.

Tofo gotoso gigante en presentación inusual / Giant gouty tophi in unusual presentation

La gota es una enfermedad reumática inflamatoria que se debe al depósito de cristales de urato monosódico en las articulaciones. En su evolución clínica se distingues dos formas: la fase aguda caracterizada por un proceso inflamatorio monoarticular agudo de gran sensibilidad, y la fase crónica o de mantenimiento, cuyo elemento fundamental es la acumulación de cristales de urato monosódico llamados tofos gotosos. Estos se presentan con mayor frecuencia en el dorso de los dedos, a nivel articular y en el pabellón auricular. Se presenta el caso de un paciente masculino, de 47 años, con diagnóstico de gota de 5 años de evolución y con tratamiento irregular. Este paciente presentó tofos gotosos en localizaciones infrecuentes que limitaron su capacidad funcional. Este caso demuestra la necesidad de un diagnóstico oportuno y una adecuada adherencia al tratamiento, por lo que se considera importante para la comunidad médica, especialmente los profesionales de la salud que atienden a pacientes con artropatía gotosa(AU)´

Gout is a rheumatic, inflammatory disease that is generated by the deposition of monosodium urate crystals at the joint level. Two forms can be distinguished in its clinical evolution: the acute phase characterized by an acute monoarticular inflammatory process of great sensitivity, and the chronic or maintenance phase where the fundamental element is the presence of accumulations of monosodium urate crystals called gouty tophi. These occur more frequently on the back of the fingers, at the joint level and in the auricle. This paper presents the case of a 47-year-old male patient, diagnosed with gout for 5 years and with irregular treatment, who presented gouty tophi in infrequent locations that limit the patient's functional capacity. The case is presented considering it important for the medical community; especially health professionals caring for patients with gouty arthropathy(AU)´

Salud bucal en pacientes con enfermedades reumáticas / Oral health in patients with rheumatic diseases

Introducción: La salud bucal es uno de los factores que pueden influir negativamente en el control de las enfermedades reumáticas; los procesos inflamatorios e infecciosos constituyen las principales alteraciones de la salud bucal en estos pacientes. Objetivo: Evaluar la salud bucal de los pacientes con enfermedades reumáticas. Métodos: Se realizó una investigación básica, no experimental y descriptiva de un universo de 136 pacientes con enfermedades reumáticas atendidos en el Hospital General Andino de Chimborazo durante el periodo diciembre de 2021 a abril de 2022. A cada uno de ellos se le realizó un examen bucal general para identificar las alteraciones de la salud bucal presentes en cada caso. Se estudiaron las variables características generales de los pacientes (edad, sexo, enfermedad reumática y tiempo de evolución de la enfermedad) y la variable salud bucal (presencia de afecciones bucales, tipo de afección bucal, frecuencia de asistencia a controles odontológicos y nivel de salud bucal). Resultados: Promedio de edad de 51,23 años, predominio de pacientes femeninas (78,68 por ciento), con diagnóstico de artritis reumatoide (77,20 por ciento) y tiempo de evolución de la enfermedad reumática inferior a 5 años (44,12 por ciento). El 72,80 por ciento de los pacientes presentó al menos una enfermedad bucal. La adentia parcial o total (61,62 por ciento) y la presencia de caries dentales (52,52 por ciento) fueron las de mayor frecuencia. El 30,88 por ciento de los pacientes solo acudió a control odontológico ante la presencia de dolor y en el 71,32 por ciento se consideró la salud bucal como inadecuada. Conclusiones: Se identificó un elevado porcentaje de pacientes con enfermedad reumática y al menos una afección bucal. Existió predominio de pacientes que solo acuden a consulta odontológica ante la presencia de una urgencia o emergencia. La salud bucal de los pacientes es inadecuada(AU)

Introduction: Oral health has been identified as one of the factors that can negatively influence the control of chronic diseases such as rheumatic diseases; Inflammatory and infectious processes constitute the main alterations of oral health in patients with this type of disease. Objective: To evaluate the oral health of patients with rheumatic diseases treated at the Hospital General Andino de Chimborazo. Methods: A basic, non-experimental and descriptive research was carried out with a universe of 169 patients with rheumatic diseases treated at the Andean General Hospital of Chimborazo during the period December 2021 - April 2022. The sample was made up of 136 patients who met the inclusion criteria defined for the research. Each of them underwent a general oral examination to identify the oral health alterations present in each case. Results: Average age of 51.23 years, predominance of female patients (78.68 percent), diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis (77.20 percent) and evolution time of rheumatic disease less than 5 years (44.12 percent). 72.80 percent of the patients presented at least one oral disease. Partial or total adentia (61.62 percent) and the presence of dental caries (52.52 percent) were the most frequently identified. 30.88 percent of patients only go to dental control in the presence of pain and in 71.32 percent oral health was considered inadequate. Conclusions: A high percentage of patients with rheumatic disease who presented at least one oral condition was identified. There was a predominance of patients who only attend a dental consultation in the presence of an urgency or emergency. The oral health of the patients is inadequate(AU)

Síndrome de Guillain-Barré como forma de presentación de lupus eritematoso sistémico en paciente masculino / Guillain Barré Syndrome as a form of presentation of systemic lupus erythematosus in a male patient

El lupus eritematoso sistémico es una enfermedad reumática, autoinmune, inflamatoria, sistémica y crónica que se caracteriza por afectar principalmente pacientes femeninas en edad fértil. Su mecanismo patogénico se centra en la presencia de un proceso inflamatorio crónico que es el responsable de las manifestaciones clínicas y complicaciones de la enfermedad. Las manifestaciones clínicas se subdividen en articulares y extraarticulares. Entre estas últimas la afectación neurológica cobra especial atención tanto por su frecuencia de presentación elevada como por la gravedad de estas. El síndrome de Guillain-Barré es una enfermedad autoinmune, que puede aparecer como complicación del lupus eritematoso sistémico y se caracteriza por parálisis motora y otros síntomas y signos neurológicos. El objetivo del presente trabajo es reportar el caso de un paciente masculino, de 27 años de edad, que comienza con manifestaciones neuropáticas y se llega a diagnosticar un síndrome de Guillain-Barré que constituyó la forma de presentación del lupus eritematoso sistémico. Por ser una forma de presentación poco común, se considera importante su reporte para conocimiento de la comunidad médica(AU)

Systemic lupus erythematosus is a rheumatic, autoimmune, inflammatory, systemic and chronic disease that is characterized by mainly affecting female patients of childbearing age. Its etiopathogenic mechanism focuses on the presence of a chronic inflammatory process that is responsible for the clinical manifestations and complications of the disease. Clinical manifestations are subdivided into articular and extra-articular. Within the latter, neurological involvement receives special attention both due to its high frequency of presentation and its severity. Guillain-Barré syndrome is an autoimmune disease that can appear as a complication of lupus erythematosus and is characterized by motor paralysis and other neurological signs and symptoms. The objective of this paper is to report the case of a 27-year-old male patient who began with neuropathic manifestations and was diagnosed with Guillain-Barré syndrome, which was the presentation of systemic lupus erythematosus. Because it is an uncommon form of presentation, its report is considered important for the knowledge of the medical community(AU)

Utilidad de la proteína C reactiva en el posoperatorio inmediato de un paciente reumático con apendicitis aguda / Usefulness of C-reactive protein in the immediate postoperative period of rheumatic patients with acute appendicitis

Las enfermedades reumáticas son un grupo de afecciones que se caracterizan por la presencia de manifestaciones y complicaciones sistémicas derivadas del proceso inflamatorio mantenido. Los reactantes de fase aguda, como es el caso de la proteína C reactiva constituyen un marcador de actividad de la enfermedad. Sin embargo, su utilidad se magnifica en los pacientes reumáticos que tienen que ser sometidos a una intervención quirúrgica, circunstancia en la que se tornan un marcador eficiente que muestra la magnitud del proceso inflamatorio. Se presenta el caso de una paciente femenina de 53 años edad, con diagnóstico de artritis reumatoide y síndrome de Sjögren secundario, que tuvo que ser sometida a intervención quirúrgica por diagnóstico de apendicitis aguda. Se realizó seguimiento clínico y de laboratorio utilizando la proteína C reactiva como marcador de elección para monitorear la intensidad del proceso inflamatorio resultante de la intervención quirúrgica y de los efectos de esta en la actividad clínica de las enfermedades reumáticas de base. Después del tratamiento quirúrgico y medicamentoso, la paciente fue dada de alta hospitalaria sin manifestaciones articulares, digestivas ni alteraciones de los exámenes de laboratorio(AU)

Rheumatic diseases are a group of conditions characterized by the presence of systemic manifestations and complications derived from the sustained inflammatory process. Acute phase reactants, such as C-reactive protein, constitute a marker of disease activity. However, its usefulness is magnified in those rheumatic patients who have to undergo surgery, being an efficient marker that shows the magnitude of the inflammatory process. We present the case of a 53-year-old female patient diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis and secondary Sjögren's syndrome who had to undergo surgery due to a diagnosis of acute appendicitis. Clinical and laboratory follow-up was performed using C-reactive protein as the marker of choice to monitor the intensity of the inflammatory process resulting from the surgical intervention and its effects on the clinical activity of underlying rheumatic diseases(AU)

Gravedad de colecistitis aguda en paciente lúpica con COVID-19 / Severity of acute cholecystitis in a lupus patient with COVID-19

Las enfermedades reumáticas constituyen un grupo de afecciones cuyo mecanismo patogénico se enfoca en la persistencia de un proceso inflamatorio que origina manifestaciones articulares y sistémicas. Aunque no es frecuente, en ocasiones el proceso inflamatorio genera complicaciones graves que requieren intervención quirúrgica como es el caso de la colecistitis aguda. Se presenta el caso de una paciente femenina de 36 años de edad, con diagnóstico de lupus eritematoso sistémico de 5 años de evolución que ingresa con COVID-19 y a los 6 días de hospitalización comienza con un cuadro franco de abdomen agudo que requirió intervención quirúrgica de urgencia. Se presenta el cuadro por la coexistencia de la enfermedad reumática, la infección por COVID-19 y el evento agudo secundario al proceso inflamatorio que causan ambas afecciones(AU)

Rheumatic diseases constitute a group of conditions whose etiopathogenic mechanism focuses on the persistence of an inflammatory process that generates joint and systemic manifestations. Although it is not frequent, sometimes the inflammatory process generates serious complications that require surgical intervention, as is the case with acute cholecystitis. The case of a 36-year-old female patient is presented, with a diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus of 5 years of evolution who was admitted due to symptoms compatible with COVID-19 and after 6 days of hospitalization she began with a clear picture of acute abdomen that required emergency surgical intervention. The picture is presented due to the coexistence of rheumatic disease, COVID-19 infection and the acute event secondary to the inflammatory process that both conditions generate(AU)

Afectación articular en adolescente con artritis idiopática juvenil / Joint involvement in an adolescent with juvenile idiopathic arthritis

La artritis idiopática juvenil es una enfermedad inflamatoria sistémica y crónica que se caracteriza por el daño articular y la presencia de manifestaciones extraarticulares que afectan distintos órganos y sistemas de órganos del cuerpo humano. Como enfermedad tiene varias formas clínicas de presentación que se corresponden con posibles enfermedades en la edad adulta. El objetivo de la presente investigación es presentar el caso de un adolescente de 14 años de edad con historia de cuadro inflamatorio poliarticular de más de 3 años de duración con deformidad articular en ambas rodillas, lo cual es poco frecuente y que es expresión del proceso inflamatorio mantenido. Después del tratamiento fue dado de alta con una mejoría notable de los rangos de movimiento articular. En la actualidad evoluciona satisfactoriamente y lleva alrededor de un año en seguimiento en consulta externa sin exacerbaciones de la actividad clínica de la enfermedad. Se considera importante el reporte del caso para concientizar a la comunidad médica en relación con el diagnóstico precoz de esta enfermedad para minimizar el riesgo de aparición de complicaciones articulares y sistémicas(AU)

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis is a systemic and chronic inflammatory disease characterized by joint involvement and the presence of extra-articular manifestations that occur in different organs and organ systems of the human body. As a disease, it includes a series of clinical forms of presentation that correspond to possible diseases in adulthood. The objective of this research is to present the case of a 14-year-old adolescent with a history of polyarticular inflammatory symptoms lasting more than three years with the presence of rare joint deformity in both knees, which is an expression of the sustained inflammatory process. The case report is considered important to raise awareness in the medical community regarding the early diagnosis of this disease to minimize the risk of the appearance of joint and systemic complications(AU)

Punción lumbar en pacientes con espondilitis anquilosante, precauciones y sugerencias / Lumbar puncture in patients with ankylosing spondylitis, precautions and suggestions

Las espondiloartropatías son un grupo de enfermedades reumáticas que se caracterizan por la presencia de un proceso inflamatorio crónico y mantenido. Entre sus manifestaciones clínicas y complicaciones se incluye la toma de la columna vertebral donde existe una calcificación de los ligamentos vertebrales que limita considerablemente la movilidad de los distintos segmentos de la columna vertebral. Los cambios anatomofuncionales que se generan en estos segmentos traen consigo dificultades a la hora de realizar procedimientos como la punción lumbar. La presente investigación tiene como objetivo describir las precauciones, sugerencias y recomendaciones para realizar la punción lumbar con fines diagnósticos o terapéuticos. Los principales resultados se enfocan en la idenficación y socialización de precauciones y sugerencias a tener en cuenta a la hora de realizar una punción lumbar en pacientes con espondilitis anquilosante(AU)

Spondyloarthropathies are a group of rheumatic diseases characterized by the presence of a chronic and sustained inflammatory process. Among its clinical manifestations and complications, the seizure of the spine is included where there is calcification of the vertebral ligaments that considerably limits the mobility of the different segments of the spine. The anatomical and functional changes that are generated in these segments bring with them difficulties when performing procedures such as lumbar puncture. This research aims to describe the precautions, suggestions and recommendations to perform lumbar puncture for diagnostic and/or therapeutic purposes. The main results focus on the identification and socialization of precautions and suggestions to take into account when performing a lumbar puncture in patients with ankylosing spondylitis(AU)

Artritis reumática juvenil idiopática: características y criterios diagnósticos / Idiopathic juvenile rheumatic arthritis: characteristics y diagnostic criteria

RESUMEN La artritis idiopática juvenil es la enfermedad reumática crónica más común en la infancia y es de causa desconocida. La artritis idiopática juvenil abarca varios subgrupos diferentes y se presenta predominantemente con artritis periférica. Se han descrito siete tipos de artritis idiopática juvenil que se distinguen por sus signos y síntomas, la cantidad de articulaciones afectadas, los resultados de las pruebas de laboratorio y los antecedentes familiares. El objetivo de este trabajo es revisar las principales características de la enfermedad y los criterios para el diagnóstico de la enfermedad reumática crónica más común en la infancia.

ABSTRACT Juvenile idiopathic arthritis is the most common chronic rheumatic disease in childhood and is of unknown etiology. Juvenile idiopathic arthritis encompasses several different subgroups and presents predominantly with peripheral arthritis. Seven types of juvenile idiopathic arthritis have been described, distinguished by their signs and symptoms, the number of joints affected, laboratory test results, and family history. The objective of this work is to review the main characteristics of the disease, the diagnosis criteria for the most common chronic rheumatic disease in childhood.

Actividad física y estado nutricional en pacientes reumáticos durante la pandemia de COVID-19 / Physical activity and nutritional status in rheumatic patients during the COVID-19 pandemic

RESUMEN Introducción: El control de las enfermedades reumáticas constituye un reto para los profesionales de la salud. Existen diversos factores que pueden influir en su control, el estado nutricional y la realización de actividades físicas sistemáticamente son algunos de ellos. Objetivo: Evaluar el comportamiento del estado nutricional y la práctica de actividades físicas en pacientes con enfermedades reumáticas durante la pandemia de COVID-19. Métodos: Investigación básica, no experimental, descriptiva y transversal que incluyó como población de estudio una cohorte de 63 pacientes con diagnóstico de enfermedades reumáticas según criterios del Colegio Americano de Reumatología. Se identificaron las características generales de los pacientes, la determinación del estado nutricional y la actividad física, y se utilizó la prueba de correlación de Sperman para identificar la posible relación existente entre las variables de estudio. Resultados: El promedio de edad fue de 53,36 años, con predominio de pacientes femeninas (82,54 %), con artritis reumatoide (53,97 %) y adherentes farmacológicos (96,82 %). Después de terminado el confinamiento existió aumento de pacientes con sobrepeso (41,27 %) y obesidad (9,52 %). Se encontró disminución de la frecuencia de realización de actividades físicas, con predominio de pacientes que realizan actividades físicas menos de tres veces por semana; el 14,28 % refiere que nunca hace ejercicios. Conclusiones: Se identificó que durante el periodo de confinamiento por la COVID-19 existieron variaciones negativas del estado nutricional y de la frecuencia de realización de actividades físicas de los pacientes con ER que pudiera estar relacionado con la actividad clínica de este tipo de enfermedades.

ABSTRACT Introduction: The control of rheumatic diseases constitutes a challenge for health professionals. There are multiple factors that can influence its control, nutritional status and systematic physical activity are some of them. Objective: To evaluate the behavior of the nutritional status and the practice of physical activities in patients with rheumatic diseases during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: Basic, non-experimental, descriptive and cross-sectional research that included as a study population a cohort of 63 patients diagnosed with rheumatic diseases according to the criteria of the American College of Rheumatology. The general characteristics of the patients, the rheumatic diseases included in the research, the main digestive manifestations identified, and the Sperman correlation test was used to identify the possible relationship between the study variables. Results: Mean age of 53.36 years, with a predominance of female patients (82.54%), with rheumatoid arthritis (53.97%) and pharmacological adherents (96.82%). After the confinement was over, there was an increase in overweight (41.27%) and obese (9.52%) patients. A decrease in the frequency of physical activities was found with a predominance of patients who perform physical activities less than 3 times a week; 14.28% report that they never exercise. Conclusions: It was identified that during the period of confinement by COVID-19 there were negative variations in the nutritional status and frequency of physical activities of patients with RD that could be related to the clinical activity of this type of disease.

Manifestaciones digestivas en el curso de enfermedades reumáticas, estudio de 5 años / Digestive manifestations in the course of rheumatic diseases, 5-year study

RESUMEN Introducción: Las enfermedades reumáticas son un grupo de alrededor de 250 afecciones que afectan fundamentalmente el sistema osteomioarticular, aunque la mayoría tiene un carácter sistémico. En el caso del sistema digestivo el compromiso puede estar causado por el propio proceso inflamatorio de la enfermedad o secundario a la afectación que causa los distintos grupos farmacológicos usados contra las enfermedades reumáticas. Objetivo: Caracterizar el compromiso digestivo de una cohorte de paciente con enfermedades reumáticas durante un periodo de estudio de 5 años. Métodos: Investigación básica, no experimental, descriptiva y longitudinal que incluyó como población de estudio una cohorte de 109 pacientes con diagnóstico de enfermedades reumáticas según criterios del Colegio Americano de Reumatología. Se identificaron las características generales de los pacientes, de las enfermedades reumáticas incluidas en la investigación y las principales manifestaciones digestivas identificadas. Resultado: Promedio de edad de 57,83 años, predominio de pacientes femeninas (71,56 %), procedencia urbana (55,05 %) y con diagnóstico de artritis reumatoide (50,46 %). El 90,82 % de los pacientes refirió haber utilizado glucocorticoides. El 94,49 % de los pacientes presentó algún tipo de manifestación extraarticular digestiva. La gastritis (36,89 %), úlcera péptica (25,24 %), reflujo gastroesofágico (18,45 %) y sequedad bucal (15,53 %) fueron las de mayor frecuencia de presentación. Conclusiones: Las manifestaciones digestivas constituyen una expresión extraarticular frecuente en el curso de las enfermedades reumáticas. Su origen pude estar supeditado a la patogenia de la enfermedad o a los eventos adversos de los grupos farmacológicos utilizados en los esquemas terapéuticos de las enfermedades reumáticas. Los glucocorticoides fueron el grupo farmacológico más usado. Algunas manifestaciones digestivas puede llegar a poner en peligro la vida de los pacientes.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Rheumatic diseases are a group of around 250 conditions that mainly affect the osteomyoarticular system, but most of them have a systemic nature, which is why they affect different organs and organ systems. In the case of the digestive system, the compromise may be caused by the inflammatory process of the disease itself or secondary to the affectation generated by the different pharmacological groups that are used to control rheumatic diseases. Objective: To characterize the digestive compromise of a cohort of patients with rheumatic diseases during a study period of 5 years. Methods: Basic, non-experimental, descriptive, correlational and longitudinal research that included as a study population a cohort of 109 patients diagnosed with rheumatic diseases according to the criteria of the American College of Rheumatology. The general characteristics of the patients, the rheumatic diseases included in the research, the main digestive manifestations identified were identified. Result: Average age of 57.83 years, predominance of female patients (71.56%), urban origin (55.05%) and with a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis (50.46%). 90.82% of the patients reported having used glucocorticoids. 94.49% of the patients presented some type of extra-articular digestive manifestation. Gastritis (36.89%), peptic ulcer (25.24%), gastroesophageal reflux (18.45%) and dry mouth (15.53%) were the ones with the highest frequency of presentation. Conclusions: Digestive manifestations are a frequent extra-articular expression in the course of rheumatic diseases. Its origin may be subject to the etiopathogenic mechanisms of the disease or to the adverse events of the pharmacological groups used in the therapeutic regimens for rheumatic diseases. Glucocorticoids were the most frequently used pharmacological group in the therapeutic regimens for rheumatic diseases. The presence of some digestive manifestations endanger the lives of patients.

Recent research on tofacitinib in the treatment of pediatric rheumatic diseases / 中国当代儿科杂志

Tofacitinib is a Janus kinase inhibitor and can block the Janus kinase-signal transducer and activator of transcription signal transduction pathway and reduce the production and release of a variety of cytokines. It has great potential in the treatment of various rheumatic diseases with a rapid onset of action and can reduce corticosteroid dependence and related adverse events. The therapeutic effect of tofacitinib in adult patients has been confirmed, and it has been increasingly used in pediatric patients in recent years. This article reviews the clinical application of tofacitinib in the treatment of pediatric autoimmune diseases.

Application of intravenous immunoglobulin G in children with rheumatic diseases / 中华实用儿科临床杂志

The indications for the application of intravenous immunoglobulin G (IVIG) mainly include the replacement therapy of antibody deficiency diseases and immunomodulatory therapy with a high dose of IVIG.IVIG is extensively used in children with rheumatic diseases due to its immunomodulatory effects.However, most of them are " off-label drugs". In the treatment of pediatric rheumatic diseases, IVIG can benefit Kawasaki disease and primary immune thrombocytopenia, and may be beneficial in treating Sj?gren′s syndrome, dermatomyositis and systemic lupus erythematosus.However, for the patients with Stevens-Johnson syndrome, antineutrophil cyctoplasmic antibody (ANCA) asso-ciated vasculitis and systemic scleroderma, there is not much chance to obtain benefits.In the treatment of rheumatic diseases in children, the application of IVIG needs to be further standardized.

Follow-up and prognosis analysis of rheumatic disease complicated with pulmonary arterial hypertension in children / 中华实用儿科临床杂志

Objective:To explore the clinical features, follow-up characteristics and prognosis of rheumatic disease complicated with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) in children, and to provide support for its clinical diagnosis and treatment.Methods:A retrospective analysis was conducted on the data of rheumatic 24 patients complicated with PAH hospitalized in the Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Children′s Hospital Affiliated to the Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Jiangxi Children′s Hospital, Department of Pediatrics Ⅰ, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University and Department of Pediatrics, the Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University from January 2013 to June 2022.The rheumatic patients complicated with PAH were followed up by telephone on June 30, 2022, and their clinical symptoms, treatment, follow-up, and prognosis data were collected.According to different treatment methods, the patients were divided into different clinical subgroups. The change of PAH was analyzed. The t-test was used for comparison between groups. P<0.05 was statistically significant. Results:A total of 24 cases were enrolled, with 7 males and 17 females.The average onset age of PAH was (10.97±3.79) years old.The median duration of PAH was 6.00 (32.20) months.The average pulmonary artery pressure was (51.71±17.66) mmHg(1 mmHg=0.133 kPa). There were 9 cases of systemic lupus erythematosus, 5 cases of Takayasu′s arteritis, 3 cases of juvenile dermatomyositis, 3 cases of undifferentiated connective tissue disease, 2 cases of systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis, 1 case of Behcet′s disease, and 1 case of Kawasaki disease.Among 24 cases, the common symptoms were fever (14 cases), fatigue (10 cases) and dyspnea (7 cases). Of the 24 cases, 10 cases were complicated with hydropericardium, 9 cases with valve regurgitation, and 5 cases with decreased systolic and/or diastolic function.Lung changes were observed in 17 cases.Eleven cases were tested for B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP), and the BNP levels were all elevated in them (11 cases), with a median BNP of 3 073 (10 645) ng/L.After the first occurrence of PAH, 12 cases were treated with Methylprednisolone therapy, 10 cases received Cyclophosphamide therapy, and 2 cases who were both systemic lupus erythematosus, underwent blood purification.In the treatment of PAH, 11 cases were treated with pulmonary artery pressure reduction, and 7 of the 11 cases took PAH-targeted drugs.The mean decrease of the average pulmonary artery pressure in children receiving the targeted therapy[(44.80±24.08) mmHg] was significant higher than that in children not receiving the targeted therapy [(16.15±17.25) mmHg] ( t=2.661, P=0.016). Twenty children were reexamined and/or followed up, and the average course of PAH at the telephone follow-up was (36.29±26.67) months.The pulmonary arterial hypertension in 6 cases completely recovered, with median recovery time of 8.00 (13.47) months, but 2 of them died after the complete recovery.The pulmonary arterial hypertension improved in 11 children, 1 of whom died and the remaining children were in stable condition.The pulmonary arterial hypertension worsened in 2 children, 1 of them improved previously but aggravated recently, and the other child did not monitor pulmonary artery pressure and died during telephone follow-up. Conclusions:Rheumatic diseases complicated with PAH are rare and most often diagnosed in severe rheumatic children.It can lead to death, and is commonly accompanied by notably elevated BNP levels.The patients who have early PAH detection, intensive treatment of the primary disease, symptomatic and targeted pulmonary artery pressure reduction show a better prognosis.