Riesgo cardiovascular en pacientes con esclerosis sistémica / Cardiovascular Risk in Patients with Systemic Sclerosis

Introducción: El riesgo cardiovascular es importante en la evaluación de los pacientes con esclerosis sistémica. Objetivo: Determinar el riesgo cardiovascular en pacientes con esclerosis sistémica. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio transversal y descriptivo en pacientes protocolizados del Servicio de Reumatología, en el período de enero 2020 a enero 2022. Se recogieron variables demográficas, clínicas, y se aplicó la calculadora de riesgo cardiovascular Framingham. Resultados: Se incluyeron 105 pacientes con edad media de 48,6 ± 15,3 años, el grupo más frecuente de 50 a 59 años (36,2 por ciento), predominó el sexo femenino 92,2 por ciento el color de piel blanca (74,3 por ciento), el tiempo de evolución fue mayor a 5 años (66,7 por ciento) con una media de 10,5 ± 9,3. El valor promedio de la escala de gravedad modificada de Medsger fue 5,1 ± 2,7 y el 72,4 por ciento con afectación leve. El fenómeno de Raynaud y la fibrosis pulmonar fueron más frecuentes con un 89,5 por ciento y 55,2 por ciento. El índice de Rodnan en promedio fue de 13,1 ± 8,0 y los reactantes de fase aguda normales en la mayoría. Los factores de riesgo cardiovascular más frecuentes fueron la HTA (30,2 por ciento) y dislipidemia (19,9 por ciento). El índice de masa corporal que predominó fue de peso adecuado (54,3 por ciento). Predominó el riesgo cardiovascular bajo según score de Framingham (86 por ciento). Existieron diferencias significativas entre las medias del tiempo de evolución y el riesgo cardiovascular (10 ± 6,9 frente a 9,6 ± 8,8 frente a 16,9 ± 10,8; p = 0,032). Conclusiones: El riesgo cardiovascular en los pacientes con esclerosis sistémica fue bajo(AU)

Introduction: Cardiovascular risk is important in the evaluation of patients with systemic sclerosis. Objective: To determine the cardiovascular risk in patients with systemic sclerosis. Methods: A cross-sectional and descriptive study was carried out in protocolized patients of Rheumatology Service, from January 2020 to January 2022. Demographic and clinical variables were collected, and Framingham cardiovascular risk calculator was used. Results: One hundred five patients were included with a mean age of 48.6 ± 15.3 years, the most frequent group was 50 to 59 years (36.2percent), female sex (92.2percent) predominated, as well as white skin color (74.3percent). The evolution time was greater than 5 years (66.7percent) with a mean of 10.5 ± 9.3. The average value of modified Medsger severity scale was 5.1 ± 2.7 and 72.4percent had mild involvement. Raynaud's phenomenon and pulmonary fibrosis were more common at 89.5percent and 55.2percent. Rodnan index on average was 13.1 ± 8.0 and the acute phase reactants were normal in the majority. The most frequent cardiovascular risk factors were HBP (30.2percent) and dyslipidemia (19.9percent). The predominant body mass index was adequate weight (54.3percent). Low cardiovascular risk according to Framingham score prevailed (86percent). There were significant differences between the mean duration of evolution and cardiovascular risk (10 ± 6.9 vs. 9.6 ± 8.8 vs. 16.9 ± 10.8; p = 0.032). Conclusions: The cardiovascular risk in patients with systemic sclerosis was low(AU)

Hipertensión arterial pulmonar en pacientes con dermatomiositis juvenil y esclerosis sistémica en un centro pediátrico de tercer nivel

INTRODUCCIÓN: La hipertensión arterial pulmonar puede estar asociada secundariamente a enfermedades del tejido conectivo. Entre estas enfermedades, predominan la esclerosis sistémica y la dermatomiositis juvenil. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS: Se realizó un estudio retrospectivo, descriptivo y transversal. Se incluyeron todos los pacientes con diagnóstico de dermatomiositis juvenil y esclerosis sistémica que acudieron a nuestro hospital. Posteriormente se verificaron los niveles de presión arterial pulmonar mediante ecocardiografía. RESULTADOS: Se incluyeron 58 pacientes, de los cuales sólo 17 pacientes tuvieron ecocardiografía diagnóstica. Entre ellos, dos pacientes presentaron hipertensión arterial pulmonar. CONCLUSIÓN: La detección oportuna de la hipertensión arterial pulmonar en las enfermedades del tejido conectivo es esencial. Generalmente es asintomático. Es necesario adherirse al protocolo internacional que sugiere realizar ecocardiografía en todos los pacientes con dermatomiositis juvenil y esclerosis sistémica.

INTRODUCTION: Pulmonary arterial hypertension may be secondary associated with connective tissue diseases. Among these diseases, systemic sclerosis and juvenile dermatomyositis predominate. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective, descriptive and cross-sectional study was carried out. All patients with a diagnosis of juvenile dermatomyositis and systemic sclerosis who attended our hospital were included. Pulmonary arterial pressure levels were subsequently verified by echocardiography. RESULTS: 58 patients were included, of which only 17 patients had a diagnostic echocardiography. Among them, two patients presented pulmonary arterial hypertension. CONCLUSION: Timely detection of pulmonary arterial hypertension in connective tissue diseases is essential. It is generally asymptomatic. It is necessary to adhere to the international protocol that suggests performing echocardiography in all patients with juvenile dermatomyositis and systemic sclerosis.

Porfiria cutánea tarda que simula esclerosis sistémica progresiva / Porphyria cutanea tarda mimicking progressive systemic sclerosis

Resumen Los síndromes esclerodermiformes suelen imitar muy bien una esclerosis sistémica progresiva, y es la presencia de ampollas cutáneas en áreas fotoexpuestas con hiperpigmentación los datos diferenciales para diagnosticar una porfiria. Presentamos el caso de un varón de 48 años con fotosensibilidad, fragilidad capilar, ampollas cutáneas e hiperpigmentación asociado a esclerodactilia, con pérdida cicatrizal distal de tejido en los dedos de las manos, que simuló a la perfección una esclerosis sistémica progresiva. La analítica mostró negatividad para anticuerpos antinucleares, antitopoisomerasa y anticentrómero, con valores altos de uroporfirinas en orina. El tratamiento con flebotomías e hidroxicloquina mejoró la fotosensibilidad y la fragilidad cutánea.

Abstract Sclerodermiform syndromes usually mimic progressive systemic sclerosis very well, with the presence of skin blisters in photo-exposed areas with hyperpigmentation being the differential data for diagnosing porphyria. We present the case of a 48-year old man with photosensitivity, capillary fragility, skin blisters, and hyperpigmentation associated with sclerodactyly with distal scar tissue loss on the fingers, which perfectly simulated progressive systemic sclerosis. The analysis showed negativity for antinuclear, antitopoisomerase and anticentromere antibodies, with high levels of uroporphyrins in urine. Phlebotomy and hydroxycloquine treatment improved photosensitivity and skin fragility.

Investigation of the effects of upper extremity home exercises on grip strength, range of motion, activity performance, and functionality in individuals with systemic sclerosis: a randomized controlled trial

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to investigate the effects of upper extremity home exercises on grip strength, range of motion, activity performance, and functionality in individuals with systemic sclerosis and to compare with patient education. METHODS: A total of 46 individuals with systemic sclerosis (55.52±11.54 years) were included. Individuals were randomly assigned into intervention (n=23) and control (n=23) groups. Dynamometer, goniometer, Canadian Occupational Performance Measurement, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand, Score for Assessment and Quantification of Chronic Rheumatic Affections of the Hands, and Duruoz Hand Index were used for evaluation. RESULTS: Post-treatment, in terms of delta (Δ) values, hand grip and pinch strengths (p: 0.000-0.016), active (p: 0.000-0.032) and passive (p: 0.000-0.043) total range of motions, Canadian Occupational Performance Measurement performance and satisfaction, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, Score for Assessment and Quantification of Chronic Rheumatic Affections of the Hands, and Duruoz Hand Index (p: 0.000) were in favor of the intervention group. CONCLUSION: Upper extremity home exercises increase grip strength, range of motion, activity performance, and functionality in patients with systemic sclerosis. We recommend that rehabilitation programs include not only hand exercises but also upper extremity exercises.

Caracterización en una cohorte de pacientes cubanos con esclerosis sistémica

Introducción: La esclerosis sistémica es una enfermedad autoinmune, de causa desconocida, que produce fibrosis en la piel y en algunos órganos internos junto a alteraciones vasculares. Objetivo: Caracterizar una cohorte de pacientes con esclerosis sistémica. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio observacional descriptivo transversal, en pacientes con esta entidad, atendidos en el Servicio de Reumatología del Hospital "Hermanos Ameijeiras" en el período comprendido de 2005 hasta el 2016, se incluyeron en el estudio 179 pacientes. Resultados: En los grupos estudiados el 42,45 % tenía entre 45 y 59 años, el 91,62 % eran mujeres y el 68,16 % blancos. El 59,22 % tenían una esclerosis sistémica difusa. El 52,51 % tenían neumopatía intersticial como afectación visceral. El ANA y el antiScL-70, fueron positivos en el 54,19 % y 25,70 % respectivamente. El 25,70 % de los casos falleció por complicaciones propias de la enfermedad. Conclusiones: La caracterización de la cohorte de pacientes con esclerosis sistémica arrojó que la edad de inicio de la enfermedad y el sexo fue igual que el reportado en la literatura, no así para el color de la piel. Predominó la esclerosis sistémica difusa. La afectación visceral más frecuente fue la piel seguida del daño pulmonar.

Introduction: Systemic sclerosis is an autoimmune disease of unknown cause that produces fibrosis in the skin and some internal organs together with vascular alterations. Objective: To characterize a systemic sclerosis cohort of patients. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive observational study was carried out in patients with this entity, treated at the Rheumatology Service of Hermanos Ameijeiras Hospital from 2005 to 2016. One hundred seventy nine (179) patients formed the sample. Results: In the groups studied, 42.45% were between 45 and 59 years old, 91.62% were women and 68.16% were white. 59.22% had diffuse systemic sclerosis. 52.51% had interstitial lung disease as visceral involvement. ANA and antiScL-70 were positive in 54.19% and 25.70% respectively. 25.70% of the cases died due to complications of the disease. Conclusions: The characterization of the cohort of patients with systemic sclerosis showed that the onset age of the disease and the sex were the same as those reported in the literature, but not for skin color. Diffuse systemic sclerosis predominated. The most frequent visceral involvement was the skin, followed by lung damage.

Composición corporal en una serie de pacientes con esclerosis sistémica

Introducción: La esclerosis sistémica es una enfermedad de etiología desconocida crónica, caracterizada por fibrosis tisular, disfunción vascular y autoinmunidad. Entre otros síntomas, las alteraciones gastrointestinales son responsables del riesgo de malnutrición. De manera que la evaluación de la composición corporal es fundamental. Objetivo: Caracterizar la composición corporal de los pacientes con esclerosis sistémica. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo y transversal de pacientes que se atienden en la consulta protocolizada del Servicio de Reumatología del Hospital "Hermanos Ameijeiras". La muestra quedó conformada por 90 pacientes con diagnóstico confirmado de esclerosis sistémica, atendidos entre los años de 2019 y 2021. Resultados: Dentro de las manifestaciones clínicas, predominó en estos pacientes la forma difusa. Se observó que a mayor tiempo de la evolución se presentaban más alteraciones gastrointestinales y úlceras digitales. Más de la mitad de los pacientes tenían sobrepeso u obesidad y se encontraron valores altos y muy altos de grasa corporal. A mayor índice de masa corporal, mayores valores de grasa corporal, grasa visceral y menor masa magra. Los pacientes con bajo índice de masa corporal tenían una tendencia significativa a presentar alteraciones gastrointestinales y no se evidenciaron diferencias en los porcentajes de grasa visceral ni de grasa corporal sin embargo, el porciento de la masa magra fue significativamente inferior. Conclusiones: Se caracterizó la identificación temprana y detallada de esta enfermedad para disminuir la mortalidad y mejorar el pronóstico de estos pacientes, mediante el análisis de la composición corporal.

Introduction: Systemic sclerosis is a chronic disease of unknown etiology, characterized by tissue fibrosis, vascular dysfunction and autoimmunity. Among other symptoms, gastrointestinal disturbances are responsible for the risk of malnutrition. In this sense, the evaluation of body composition is fundamental. Objective: To characterize the body composition of patients with systemic sclerosis. Methods: A descriptive and cross-sectional study was carried out in patients assisted in the protocolized consultation of the Rheumatology Service of Hospital Hermanos Ameijeiras. The sample was made up of 90 patients with confirmed diagnosis of systemic sclerosis who were treated from 2019 to 2021. Results: Diffuse form predominated in these patients as the clinical manifestations. It was observed that the longer the evolution, the more gastrointestinal alterations and digital ulcers were presented. More than half of the patients were overweight or obese, as high and very high values of body fat were found. The higher the body mass index, the higher the values of body fat, visceral fat and lower lean mass. Patients with low body mass index had significant tendency to present gastrointestinal alterations and no differences were found in the percentages of visceral fat or body fat. However, the percentage of lean mass was significantly lower. Conclusions: The early and detailed identification of this disease was characterized to reduce mortality and improve the prognosis of these patients through the analysis of body composition.

Esclerosis sistémica sine esclerodermia en una mujer con anticuerois antinucleares centroméricos, afectación pulmonar y digestiva: reporte de caso

Las entidadessineson poco comunes en reumatología. En la esclerosis sistémica progresiva, hay una variante de la forma cutánea limitada llamada esclerosis sistémicasineesclerodermia, cuya característica central es la falta de afectación cutánea, pero compromiso visceral presente. La positividad a los anticuerpos antitopoisomerasa o anticentromérico confirman el diagnóstico. El caso de este estudio es una mujer de 63 años con enfermedad intersticial pulmonar, afectación del tránsito intestinal y fenómeno de Raynaud, con ANA a títulos elevados con patrón centromérico y positividad para anticuerpos antitopoisomerasa. Ante un paciente con fenómeno de Raynaud, afectación visceral y ANA elevado, se le debe pedir anticuerpos específicos para diagnóstico de esclerosis sistémica en su variedadsine.

Sine entities are rare in rheumatology. In progressive systemic sclerosis there is a variant of the limited cutaneous form called systemic sclerosis sine scleroderma, whose central feature is the lack of skin involvement, but visceral involvement is present. Positive anti-topoisomerase or anti-centromere antibodies confirm the diagnosis. We present the case of a 63-year-old woman with interstitial lung disease, intestinal transit involvement and Raynaud's phenomenon, with high titers of ANA with a centromeric pattern and positivity for anti-topoisomerase antibodies. When faced with a patient with Raynaud's phenomenon, visceral involvement and elevated ANA, specific antibodies should be requested for the diagnosis of systemic sclerosis in its sine variety.

Severe Pulmonary Hypertension Secondary to Concomitant Mitral Stenosis with Veno-occlusive Disease in the Context of Systemic Sclerosis: Importance of Careful and Comprehensive Assessment

Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH) is a clinical syndrome consisting of physiologic/ hemodynamic criteria that are a consequence of several etiologies. Confirmation of pulmonary hypertension is based on right heart catheterization. Pulmonary hypertension is a devastating condition that can lead to considerable morbidity and premature mortality. In the last few decades, significant advancement in the pharmacotherapy of pulmonary hypertension has resulted from better understanding of the complex pathogenesis and pathophysiology of this dreaded disease. Despite these accomplishments, pharmacotherapy of pulmonary hypertension is still far from perfect, and the mortality in this modern treatment era is still unacceptably high. We report a complex clinical presentation characterized by severe pulmonary hypertension secondary to concomitant mitral stenosis with veno-occlusive disease in the context of systemic sclerosis. Our case highlights the importance of a systematic and comprehensive diagnostic approach to avoid missing an underlying pathology.

Autoimmune hepatitis and systemic sclerosis A rare overlap

Autoimmune hepatitis concomitant with other immune-mediated diseases is an increasingly recognized condition which is difficult to diagnose. We present the case of a 42-year-old woman with no significant medical history who consulted due to progressive growth of an abdominal mass in the right hypochondriac region and associated constitutional syndrome. The physical exam showed hepatomegaly, calcinosis and salt-and-pepper depigmentation of the skin, and Raynaud's phenomenon in the hands. Paraclinical tests reported elevated transaminases and IgM immunoglobulin, as well as positive antinuclear antibodies (ANAs) and smooth muscle antibodies (SMAs), along with imaging signs of portal hypertension. A liver biopsy was compatible with autoimmune hepatitis, and treatment was begun with corticosteroids, with an adequate response. Systemic sclerosis is one of the autoimmune diseases which can present in a patient with autoimmune hepatitis. Suspecting, diagnosing and following up these diseases in this type of patients is key in their comprehensive management. (Acta Med Colomb 2022; 48. DOI:https://doi.org/10.36104/amc.2023.2609).

El péptido Pro-BNP como predictor de daño cardíaco en pacientes con esclerosis sistémica / Pro-BNP Peptide as a Predictor of Cardiac Damage in Systemic Sclerosis Patients

Introducción: La esclerosis sistémica es una enfermedad crónica del tejido conectivo de carácter autoinmune, de causa desconocida, que produce exceso de colágeno provocando fibrosis en la piel, con afectación de órganos internos. Los anticuerpos frecuentes son: antitopoisomerasa 1 y anticentrómero. Las formas clínicas son la cutánea difusa y cutánea limitada. La prevalencia de la afectación cardíaca varía entre un 8-28 por ciento y en fases tardías la presencia de signos y síntomas cardiovasculares es de mal pronóstico y una de las principales causas de mortalidad. Objetivo: Determinar la asociación entre afectación cardíaca y las formas clínicas, el pro-péptido natriurético cerebral N-terminal (NT-proBNP) y los autoanticuerpos en la esclerosis sistémica. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo transversal de un universo de 140 pacientes, la muestra fue de 54 pacientes. Se le realizó ecocardiograma, niveles de NT-proBNP, anti-scl 70, anticentrómero y determinación de formas clínicas a todos los pacientes que cumplieron criterios de inclusión y que fueron atendidos en el Hospital: Hermanos Ameijeiras Habana-Cuba, entre julio de 2016 a diciembre de 2017. Resultados: La edad media fue 51,76 ± 12,82. Sexo femenino en un 96,3 por ciento. El 72,2 por ciento era piel blanca. La afectación cardíaca de la EScd fue de 77,5 por ciento, hormona NT-proBNP tuvo niveles elevados en un 55,0 por ciento. Los anti-scl-70 estuvieron negativos en el 70 por ciento (n = 28) de los pacientes con afectación cardíaca. El anti-centrómero estuvo negativo en el 95,0 por ciento (n = 38). Conclusiones: Se determinó que la afectación cardíaca en pacientes con esclerosis sistémica, es independiente de las formas clínicas y de la presencia de autoanticuerpos. Los pacientes que tuvieron los niveles séricos de NT-proBNP elevados presentaron afectación cardíaca(AU)

Introduction: Systemic sclerosis is a chronic autoimmune connective tissue disease of unknown cause, which produces excess collagen causing fibrosis in the skin, affecting internal organs. Common antibodies are antitopoisomerase 1 and anticentromere. The clinical forms are diffuse cutaneous and limited cutaneous. The prevalence of cardiac involvement varies between 8-28percent and in late stages the presence of cardiovascular signs and symptoms have poor prognosis and one of the main causes of mortality. Objective: To determine the association between cardiac involvement and clinical forms, N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) and autoantibodies in SSc. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study of a universe of 140 patients was carried out. Fifty four patients made up the sample. An echocardiogram, NT-proBNP, Anti-scl 70, anticentromere levels and determination of clinical forms were performed on all patients who met the inclusion criteria and who were treated at Hermanos Ameijeiras hospital in Havana, Cuba, from July 2016 to December 2017. Results: The mean age was 51.76 ± 12.82. Female sex accounted 96.3percent. 72.2percent were white skinned. Cardiac involvement of EScd was 77.5percent, NT-proBNP hormone had high levels in 55.0percent. Anti-scl-70 were negative in 70percent (n=28) of patients with cardiac involvement. Anti-centromere (ACT) was negative in 95.0percent (n=38). Conclusions: Cardiac involvement in patients with SS is independent of the clinical forms and the presence of autoantibodies. Patients with elevated NT-proBNP serum levels had cardiac involvement(AU)

Caracterización de la enfermedad pulmonar intersticial en los pacientes con esclerosis sistémica

Introducción: La esclerosis sistémica es una enfermedad autoinmune crónica, caracterizada por vasculopatía, activación del sistema inmune y aumento de depósitos de matriz extracelular. En los últimos años, el compromiso pulmonar ha cobrado gran importancia, ha pasado a ser la primera causa de muerte en estos pacientes. La afección pulmonar puede ocurrir como hipertensión o enfermedad pulmonar intersticial. La meta del tratamiento es detener el deterioro de la función pulmonar. Objetivo: Caracterizar las manifestaciones clínicas, imagenológicas y la función respiratoria en pacientes con esclerosis sistémica y enfermedad pulmonar intersticial. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio observacional, descriptivo de corte transversal en el período comprendido entre diciembre de 2018 y diciembre de 2019. En el Servicio de Reumatología para caracterizar la enfermedad pulmonar intersticial en pacientes con esclerosis sistémica. El universo estuvo constituido por 168 pacientes, diagnosticados con esa enfermedad y la muestra se conformó por 55 pacientes que cumplieron los criterios de inclusión establecidos. Resultados: La enfermedad pulmonar intersticial fue más frecuente en pacientes mayores de 40 años, del sexo femenino, piel mestiza, predominó la forma clínica difusa, el síntoma más frecuente fue la disnea de esfuerzo, la mayoría tuvo ANA positivo y el patrón tomográfico en panal de abejas. La capacidad vital forzada estaba disminuida con mayor frecuencia, se asoció a un comportamiento autoinmune positivo para anti-ScL-70. Conclusiones: Se caracterizó las manifestaciones clínicas y radiográficas de la enfermedad pulmonar intersticial fueron comprobadas por la utilidad de la tomografía computarizada y la espirometría para identificar la presencia de fibrosis pulmonar.

Introduction: Systemic sclerosis is a chronic autoimmune disease, characterized by vasculopathy, activation of the immune system and increased extracellular matrix deposits. In recent years, lung involvement has gained great importance, it has become the first cause of death in these patients. Lung involvement can occur as hypertension or interstitial lung disease. The goal of treatment is to stop the decline in lung function. Objective: To characterize the clinical and imaging manifestations and respiratory function in patients with systemic sclerosis and interstitial lung disease. Methods: An observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study was carried out from December 2018 to December 2019 in the rheumatology service to characterize interstitial lung disease in patients with systemic sclerosis. The universe consisted of 168 patients diagnosed with this disease and the sample was made up of 55 patients who met the established inclusion criteria. Results: Interstitial lung disease was more frequent in patients older than 40 years, female, mixed-race skin color, the diffuse clinical form predominated, the most frequent symptom was exertional dyspnea, the majority had positive ANA and the pattern honeycomb tomography. Forced vital capacity was more frequently decreased, associated with positive autoimmune behavior for Anti-ScL-70. Conclusions: The radiographic and clinical manifestations of PID were verified by the usefulness of computed tomography and spirometry to identify the presence of pulmonary fibrosis.

Clinical Profile of Sharp Syndrome: Is it rare in India?

Background: In 1972, Dr Sharp and colleagues described a new connective tissue disease, characterized by overlapping features of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), systemic sclerosis (SSc), and polymyositis/ dermatomyositis (PM/DM) and by the presence of antibodies against the U1 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein autoantigen (U1 snRNP). This condition was termed mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD) and proposed as a distinct disease. Later, after observing the clinical evolution of MCTD patients, Sharp himself agreed that the original concept of MCTD had to be modified and that Internal organs were at risk for serious complications; patients were not always steroid responsive; prognosis was not always benign. Materials and methods: Patients in the age group of 15-50 years diagnosed to have connective tissue diseases were included. 8 patients in the age group of 15-50 admitted in Medicine department were taken and they were evaluated for the clinical profile of sharp syndrome by thorough clinical examination, routine laboratory tests and special investigations depending on the clinical profile. Results: 8 patients with connective tissue disease attending the medicine OPD were studied. Of these 8 patients were female patients. The median age of onset was 36 years, 8 patients met criteria by sharp and Alarcon-Segovia. The clinical features of patients at presentation are Raynaud抯 phenomena, Puffy fingers, esophagus dysmotility, skin rash, interstitial lung disease, arthritis, pulmonary hypertension, myositis, anemia. Conclusion: SHARP syndrome is a rare condition, as evidenced by the small series of cases reported to date. Diagnosis is based on clinical and paraclinical criteria. The evolution can be interspersed with various complications that can affect the short, medium and long-term prognosis

Calidad de vida en pacientes con esclerosis sistémica en confinamiento por pandemia de COVID-19 en Argentina / Quality of life in patients with systemic sclerosis in confinement due to the COVID-19 pandemic in Argentina

Introducción: los pacientes con enfermedades reumáticas tienen una calidad de vida significativamente deteriorada. La pandemia por COVID-19 tuvo un notable impacto sobre la población y los sistemas de salud de todo el mundo. Objetivos: en este trabajo nos proponemos conocer el impacto de la pandemia en la calidad de vida de los pacientes con esclerosis sistémica (ES) y cómo fue el acceso a la atención médica. Materiales y métodos: mediante encuestas anónimas y digitales a pacientes durante julio y agosto de 2020 se evaluó la calidad de vida utilizando el cuestionario de calidad de vida de la esclerosis sistémica (SScQoL). Además, se realizaron preguntas para evaluar el acceso al sistema de salud durante ese período. Resultados: se encuestaron 300 pacientes con ES. La mediana de afectación de la calidad de vida según el cuestionario utilizado fue de 17 (9,25-22) y el dolor fue el dominio más afectado. El 29,33% no hizo los controles médicos. El 74,33% refirió haber tenido estudios médicos pendientes al inicio de la cuarentena y solo el 25% pudo realizarlos. Conclusiones: los pacientes con ES presentaron compromiso de la calidad de vida durante la pandemia y mostraron dificultades en el acceso al sistema de salud.

Introduction: patients with rheumatic diseases have a significantly impaired quality of life. The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the population and health systems around the world. Objectives: to analyze the impact of the pandemic on the quality of life and access to medical care of patients with systemic sclerosis (SS). Materials and methods: through anonymous and digital surveys of patients during July and August 2020, quality of life was assessed using the Systemic Sclerosis Quality of Life Questionnaire (SScQoL). In addition, questions were asked to assess access to the health system during that period. Results: 300 patients with SS were surveyed. The median quality of life affectation according to the questionnaire used was 17 (9.25-22), with pain being the most affected domain. Twenty-nine percent did not attend their medical appointments, 74.33% reported having pending medical studies at the beginning of the quarantine, and only 25% could carry them out. Conclusions: patients with SS presented compromised quality of life during the pandemic and showed difficulties in accessing the health system.

Research progress in plasmacytoid dendritic cells in systemic sclerosis / 中华微生物学和免疫学杂志

Plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) are a unique subset of dendritic cells that can rapidly produce large amounts of type Ⅰ interferon after activation. They are critical in antiviral immunity and involved in the initiation and development of many autoimmune diseases. Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disease characterized by immune dysregulation, vasculopathy and progressive fibrosis of the skin and internal organs. Recent studies have found that pDCs are involved in the pathogenesis of SSc. Inhibiting the function of pDCs can effectively prevent inflammation and fibrosis in SSc, highlighting the role of pDCs in the pathogenesis of SSc. Therefore, an in-depth understanding of pDCs and their role in the pathogenesis of SSc is important for the development of pDCs and their mediators as therapeutic targets for SSc.

Genome-wide DNA methylation and transcriptome expression profiles of peripheral blood mononuclear cells in patients with systemic sclerosis with interstitial lung disease / 中南大学学报(医学版)

OBJECTIVES@#This study aims to investigate the genome-wide DNA methylation and transcriptome expression profiles of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc) with interstitial lung disease (ILD), and to analyze the effects of DNA methylation on Wnt/β-catenin and chemokine signaling pathways.@*METHODS@#PBMCs were collected from 19 patients with SSc (SSc group) and 18 healthy persons (control group). Among SSc patients, there were 10 patients with ILD (SSc with ILD subgroup) and 9 patients without ILD (SSc without ILD subgroup). The genome-wide DNA methylation and gene expression level were analyzed by using Illumina 450K methylation chip and Illumina HT-12 v4.0 gene expression profiling chip. The effect of DNA methylation on Wnt/β-catenin and chemokine signal pathways was investigated.@*RESULTS@#Genome-wide DNA methylation analysis identified 71 hypermethylated CpG sites and 98 hypomethylated CpG sites in the SSc with ILD subgroup compared with the SSc without ILD subgroup. Transcriptome analysis distinguished 164 upregulated genes and 191 downregulated genes in the SSc with ILD subgroup as compared with the SSc without ILD subgroup. In PBMCs of the SSc group, 35 genes in Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway were hypomethylated, while frizzled-1 (FZD1), mitogen-activated protein kinase 9 (MAPK9), mothers against DPP homolog 2 (SMAD2), transcription factor 7-like 2 (TCF7L2), and wingless-type MMTV integration site family, member 5B (WNT5B) mRNA expressions were upregulated as compared with the control group (all P<0.05). Compared with the SSc without ILD subgroup, the mRNA expressions of dickkopf homolog 2 (DKK2), FZD1, MAPK9 were upregulated in the SSc with ILD subgroup, but the differences were not statistically significant (all P>0.05). In PBMCs of the SSc group, 38 genes in chemokine signaling pathway were hypomethylated, while β-arrestin 1 (ARRB1), C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 10 (CXCL10), C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 16 (CXCL16), FGR, and neutrophil cytosolic factor 1C (NCF1C) mRNA expressions were upregulated as compared with the control group (all P<0.05). Compared with the SSc without ILD subgroup, the mRNA expressions of ARRB1, CXCL10, CXCL16 were upregulated in the SSc with ILD subgroup, but the differences were not statistically significant (all P>0.05).@*CONCLUSIONS@#There are differences in DNA methylation and transcriptome profiles between SSc with ILD and SSc without ILD. The expression levels of multiple genes in Wnt/β- catenin and chemokine signaling pathways are upregulated, which might be associatea with the pathogenesis of SSc.

Microparticles: potential new contributors to the pathogenesis of systemic sclerosis?

Abstract Background Microparticles (MPs) are membrane-derived vesicles released from cells undergoing activation or apoptosis with diverse proinflammatory and prothrombotic activities, that have been implicated in the pathogenesis of systemic sclerosis (SSc). We aimed to evaluate the plasma levels of platelet-derived microparticles (PMPs), endothelial cell-derived microparticles (EMPs), and monocyte-derived microparticles (MMPs) in SSc patients, and the association between MPs and the clinical features of SSc. Methods In this cross-sectional study, 70 patients with SSc and 35 age- and sex-matched healthy controls were evaluated. Clinical and nailfold capillaroscopy (NFC) data were obtained from all patients. Plasma levels of PMPs (CD42+/31+), EMPs (CD105+), and MMPs (CD14+) were quantified by flow cytometry. Results Patients were mainly females (90%), with a mean age of 48.9 years old. PMP, EMP, and MMP levels were significantly increased in SSc patients compared to controls (79.2% ± 17.3% vs. 71.0% ± 19.8%, p = 0.033; 43.5% ± 8.7% vs. 37.8% ± 10.4%, p = 0.004; and 3.5% ± 1.3% vs. 1.1% ± 0.5%, p < 0.0001, respectively). PMP levels were significantly higher in patients with positive anti-topoisomerase-I antibodies (p = 0.030) and in patients with a disease duration > 3 years (p = 0.038). EMP levels were lower in patients with a higher modified Rodnan skin score (p = 0.015), and in those with an avascular score > 1.5 in NFC (p = 0.042). Conclusion The increased levels of PMPs, EMPs and MMPs in scleroderma patients might indicate a possible role for these agents in the pathogenesis of this challenging disease.

Systemic sclerosis in a patient with Turner syndrome: A case report and a review of associated autoimmune diseases

Turner's syndrome (TS) is one of the most common sex chromosome disorders caused by numeric or structural abnormalities of the X chromosome. A case of TS and Systemic Sclerosis (SSc) is reported, along with a summary of all associated TS/autoimmune diseases described in English literature from 1948 to 2020, using a search in MEDLINE (Pubmed). A 32-year-old woman affected by TS was seen due to inflammatory arthralgia in small joints and dysphagia, as well as a two-year history of Raynaud's phenomenon and puffy hands. Biohumoural laboratory tests and severity scales revealed changes that allowed us to diagnose SSc. This case report emphasises the role played by sex hormones and chromosomal abnormalities in the pathogenesis of autoimmune disorders, and to our knowledge, this is the only case described in literature of a TS patient who developed SSc.

El síndrome de Turner (TS) es uno de los trastornos cromosómicos sexuales más comunes causados por anomalías numéricas o estructurales del cromosoma X. En este documento informamos de un caso de TS y esclerosis sistémica (SSc) y resumimos toda la asociación de TS/enfermedades autoinmunes descrita en la literatura inglesa de 1948 a 2020, encontrada buscando en MEDLINE (PubMed). Una mujer de 32 arios afectada por TS acudió a nuestra observación debido a la artralgia inflamatoria en pequenas articulaciones y disfagia y 2 anos de historia del fenómeno de Raynaud y las manos hinchadas. El laboratorio biohumoral y las pruebas instrumentales revelaron alteraciones que nos permitieron diagnosticar SSc. Nuestro informe de caso hace hincapié en el papel desempefíado por las hormonas sexuales y las anomalías cromosómicas en la patogénesis del trastorno autoinmune; y hasta nuestro conocimiento, este es el único caso descrito en la literatura de un paciente TS que desarrolló SSc.

Taller de concordancia en la evaluación de imágenes capilaroscópicas / Reliability of nailfold videocapillaroscopy workshop

Introducción: la capilaroscopia es un método no invasivo que permite observar la microvasculatura en el área periungueal. Los resultados informados pueden ser altamente variables entre distintos observadores. A lo largo del tiempo surgieron métodos cuantitativos y semicuantitativos para mejorar la reproducibilidad. Objetivos: conocer el nivel de acuerdo intra e interobservador al informar los diferentes patrones capilaroscópicos en individuos con diferente nivel de entrenamiento. Materiales y métodos: estudio de corte transversal. Participaron médicos reumatólogos especialistas y en formación que habían realizado previamente un curso virtual de capacitación en capilaroscopia. Recibieron 40 imágenes capilaroscópicas proyectadas en una presentación de PowerPoint y debían responder a través de un cuestionario digital. Se evaluó la concordancia de respuestas intra e interobservador. Resultados: se encontró un alto nivel de concordancia global con un kappa 0,66 IC 95% (0,63-0,70) p<0,0000. También en otros grupos como reumatólogos en formación: kappa 0,65 IC 95% (0,60-0,71) p=0,0000, y médicos reumatólogos: kappa 0,67 IC 95% (0,62-0,72) p=0,0000. Conclusiones: el nivel de concordancia encontrado fue globalmente alto, independientemente del nivel de entrenamiento de los profesionales, y de ser o no reumatólogo. La concordancia fue superior cuando se comparó a quienes tenían más de 4 años de experiencia en la realización de videocapilaroscopia.

Introduction: videoapillaroscopy is a non-invasive method that allows the observation of the microvasculature in the periungual area. Reported results can be highly variable between different observers. Over time, quantitative and semi-quantitative methods emerged to improve reproducibility. Objetives: to know the level of intra and interobserver agreement when reporting the different capillaroscopic patterns in individuals with different levels of training. Materials and methods: cross section study. Specialist rheumatologists and those in training who had previously completed a virtual capillaroscopy training course participated. They received 40 capillaroscopic images projected in a PowerPoint presentation and had to issue their response through a digital questionnaire. Concordance of intra and interobserver responses was evaluated. Results: a high level of global agreement was found with a kappa 0.66 CI 95% (0.63-0.70) p<0.0000, also in other groups such as rheumatologists in training: kappa 0.65 CI 95% (0.60-0.71) p=0.0000, physicians rheumatologists: kappa 0.67 95% CI (0.62-0.72) p=0.0000. Conclusions: the level of agreement found was globally high, regardless of the level of training of the professionals, and whether or not they were a rheumatologist. Concordance was higher when compared to those who had more than 4 years of experience performing videocapillaroscopy.

Características clínico-epidemiológicas de los pacientes con esclerosis sistémica / Clinical-epidemiological characteristics of patients with systemic sclerosis

Introducción: La esclerosis sistémica es una enfermedad rara de la cual existe información limitada en el Centro de Referencia de Enfermedades Reumáticas de la Habana. Objetivo: Describir las características clínico-epidemiológicas de los pacientes atendidos con este diagnóstico en el período comprendido entre noviembre del año 2017 a marzo del año 2019. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio observacional descriptivo, transversal en 73 pacientes. Se evaluaron variables sociodemográficas como la edad, sexo, color de la piel, nivel educacional y ocupación, variables clínicas como forma de presentación y tiempo de diagnóstico de la enfermedad, manifestaciones clínicas, las comorbilidades asociadas y el tratamiento. Resultados: El 57,5 por ciento presentó la forma difusa de la enfermedad y el 48,8 por ciento tenían más de 10 años de diagnóstico. La afectación digestiva en el 94,5 por ciento, la osteomioarticular en el 89,0 por ciento y las cardiovasculares en el 87,7 por ciento fueron las más representadas por órganos y sistemas. Conclusiones: Predominó la forma difusa de la enfermedad, los enfermos con más de 10 años de diagnóstico y la afectación cutánea, digestiva y osteomioarticulares. La HTA seguida de la fibromialgia fueron las comorbilidades más identificadas. Los anti cálcicos, IECA, esteroides y el Metotrexate fueron los fármacos más utilizados en el tratamiento(AU)

Introduction: Systemic sclerosis is a rare disease for which there is limited information in the Reference Center for Rheumatic Diseases of Havana. Objective: To describe the clinical-epidemiological characteristics of the patients treated with this diagnosis in the period from November 2017 to March 2019. Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional observational study was carried out in 73 patients. Sociodemographic variables such as age, sex, skin color, educational level and occupation, clinical variables such as form of presentation and time of diagnosis of the disease, clinical manifestations, associated comorbidities and treatment were evaluated. Results: 57.5 percent presented the diffuse form of the disease and 48.8 percent had more than 10 years of diagnosis. Digestive involvement in 94.5 percent, osteomyoarticular disease in 89.0 percent, and cardiovascular disease in 87.7 percent were the most represented by organs and systems. Conclusions: The diffuse form of the disease predominated, patients with more than 10 years of diagnosis and skin, digestive and osteomyoarticular involvement. HT followed by fibromyalgia were the most identified comorbidities. Anti-calcium, ACEI, steroids and Methotrexate were the drugs most used in treatment(AU)

Vacunación contra SARS-CoV-2 en pacientes con esclerosis sistémica en Argentina: preferencias, acceso y adherencia al plan de vacunación / Vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 in patients with systemic sclerosis in Argentina: preferences, access and adherence to the vaccination plan

Introducción: en pacientes con enfermedades reumatológicas autoinmunes se recomienda la aplicación sistemática y secuencial de una serie de vacunas para la prevención de enfermedades transmisibles. El objetivo de este estudio fue estimar la proporción de pacientes con esclerosis sistémica (ES) que recibieron vacunación contra el coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2). Materiales y métodos: se envió una encuesta anónima por correo electrónico o contacto por WhatsApp desde mayo a septiembre de 2021, con preguntas para evaluar la adherencia al esquema de vacunación recomendado en pacientes con enfermedades reumatológicas, así como temores, preferencias y adherencia al esquema de vacunación contra el SARS-CoV-2. Resultados: se incluyeron 295 pacientes con ES. El 68,81% estaba vacunado contra el SARS-CoV-2 con al menos una dosis, de los cuales el 48,7% tenía dos dosis. El 84,75% refirió conversar con su médico sobre su esquema de vacunación general. Solo el 5,4% tenía las cuatro vacunas. El 93,56% manifestó voluntad de vacunarse contra el SARS-CoV-2; el 56,27% prefirió la vacuna Sputnik V. El 7,46% manifestó su voluntad de no vacunarse. Los factores que influyeron en la adherencia a la vacunación, con mayor frecuencia, fueron el miedo a contraer la infección por SARS-CoV-2 (86,1%) y las reacciones adversas (23,05%). Conclusiones: destacamos el hecho de que solo 6 meses después de que se dispusiera la vacunación contra el SARS-CoV-2, la mitad de los pacientes con ES tenía el esquema recomendado completo.

Introduction: in patients with autoimmune rheumatic diseases, the systematic and sequential application of a series of vaccines is recommended for the prevention of communicable diseases. The objective was to estimate the proportion of patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc) who received vaccination against coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2). Materials and methods: since may to september 2021, an anonymous survey was sent by email or messaging app, containing questions to assess adherence to the recommended vaccination schedule in patients with rheumatic diseases, as well as fears, preferences and adherence to vaccination schedule against SARS-CoV-2. Results: 295 patients with SSc were included. 68.81% were vaccinated for SARS-CoV-2 with at least one dose, 48.7% of this group had two doses. 84.75% reported talking to their doctor about their general vaccination schedule. Only 5.4% had all four vaccines. 93.56% expressed willingness to be vaccinated against SARS-CoV-2, 56.27% preferred the Sputnik V vaccine. 7.46% expressed their willingness to not be vaccinated. The factors that most frequently influenced adherence to vaccination were fear of contracting SARS-CoV-2 infection (86.1%) and adverse reactions (23.05%). Conclusions: we highlight the fact that only 6 months after vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 became available, half of the patients with SSc had the full recommended schedule.