Thyroid abnormality in patients with psoriasis: prevalence and association with severity

Abstract Background: Psoriasis is associated with several comorbidities and its association with thyroid abnormality has been hypothesized. Objective: To assess the prevalence of thyroid abnormality in Brazilian patients with psoriasis and to analyze its association with severity, presence of psoriatic arthritis and immunobiological treatment. Additionally, to compare results with literature as a control. Methods: In this observational study, clinical and laboratory data of patients followed from January 2018 to December 2019 were analyzed. Thyroid abnormality was assessed through the current history of thyroid disease and laboratory tests - thyrotropin (TSH), free thyroxine (FT4), antithyroid peroxidase (anti-TPO) and antithyroglobulin (anti-TG) antibodies. Patients were classified according to psoriasis severity - Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI), presence of psoriatic arthritis, and current treatment. Subsequently, the results were compared with a control group selected from the literature review. Results: Of the 250 included patients, 161 were eligible. The prevalence of thyroid abnormality was 28.57% and of hypothyroidism, 14.91%. The mean age was 55 years and the median PASI was 2.2. There was no association between thyroid abnormality and PASI (p = 0.8), presence of psoriatic arthritis (p = 0.87), or use of immunobiological therapy (p = 0.13). The literature control group included 6,227 patients and there was a statistically significant difference for the hypothyroidism variable (p < 0.0001).

Síndrome de Kartagener y artritis reumatoide. Reporte de caso / Kartagener Syndrome and Rheumatoid Arthritis. Case Report

Presentación del caso. Se trata de una mujer de 26 años de edad, en seguimiento por la especialidad de reumatología desde los 17 años, cuando consultó con historia de un año de evolución de síndrome poliarticular de grandes y pequeñas articulaciones, aditivo, simétrico acompañado de fatiga, rigidez matutina mayor de una hora. Se reportó además factor reumatoide positivo. La radiografía de ambas manos presentó erosiones, que confirmó el diagnóstico de artritis reumatoide. Adicionalmente, la paciente tenía el antecedente de procesos sinobronquiales a repetición desde su infancia. En la evaluación médica se identificó dolor en los senos paranasales, dextrocardia y bronquiectasias, confirmados por los estudios de imágenes, que permitió concluir en el diagnóstico de síndrome de Kartagener. Intervención terapéutica. La paciente presentaba actividad clínica severa de la artritis reumatoide, se inició el tratamiento con metotrexato 10 mg vía oral un día a la semana, prednisona 5 mg al día y ácido fólico 5 mg a la semana y citas periódicas, controlando los datos de actividad y efectos adversos de los medicamentos, con pruebas hepáticas, hemograma y transaminasas. La especialidad de neumología recomendó la inclusión de la paciente en un programa de rehabilitación respiratoria, así como el uso de azitromicina 500 mg cada día por tres días en los períodos de agudización. Evolución clínica. El tratamiento logró mantener una actividad leve de la artritis reumatoide y sin exacerbación de los síntomas respiratorios

Case presentation. A 26-year-old woman, under follow-up by the rheumatology specialty since she was 17 years old, when she consulted with a history of one year of evolution of polyarticular disease of large and small joints, additive, symmetrical, accompanied by fatigue and morning stiffness for more than one hour. Positive rheumatoid factor was also reported. Additionally, the patient had a history of repeated sinobronchial processes since childhood. Medical examination revealed sinus pain in the paranasal sinuses, dextrocardia, and bronchiectasis, confirmed by imaging studies, which led to the diagnosis of Kartagener's syndrome. Treatment. The patient presented the severe clinical activity of rheumatoid arthritis. The treatment was started with methotrexate 10 mg orally one day a week, prednisone 5 mg a day, and folic acid 5 mg a week and periodic appointments, controlling the activity data and adverse effects of the drugs, with liver tests, hemogram, and transaminases. The pneumology department recommended the inclusion of the patient in a respiratory rehabilitation program as well as the use of azithromycin 500 mg every day for three days during periods of exacerbation. Outcome. The treatment was successful in maintaining a mild activity of the rheumatoid arthritis and without exacerbation of respiratory symptoms

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.

Systemic and local antiinflammatory effect of magnesium chloride in experimental arthritis

Abstract Objective Despite some knowledge gaps in scientific evidence, MgCl2 is largely used for pain relief in musculoskeletal diseases. Mg salts were shown to provide analgesia postoperatively in orthopedic surgery and low Mg levels were linked to arthritis development and severity. We determined the anti-inflammatory activity of MgCl2 in an acute arthritis model. Methods Mice received 0.1 mg/25μL Zymosan (Zy) or saline into the knees. Joint pain was evaluated using von Frey test; cell influx, and interleukin (IL)-1 level were assessed in joint lavage at 6 h. Synovia were excised for histopathology and analysis of immunoexpression of nuclear factor kappa B (NFκB) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α. Groups (n = 6/group) received either 90 mg/kg MgCl2/100 μL or saline per os (systemic) or 500 μg/25 μL MgCl2 or saline intra-articularly (i.a.) 30 min prior to Zy. Results MgCl2 given either systemically or locally significantly reduced cell influx (p = 0.0012 and p = 0.0269, respectively), pain (p = 0.0005 and p = 0.0038, respectively), and intra-articular IL-1 level (p = 0.0391), as compared to saline. Systemic MgCl2 significantly decreased NFκB (p < 0.05) immmunoexpression, as compared to saline. Conclusion MgCl2 given systemically or locally displayed anti-inflammatory activity in a severe acute arthritis model reducing cell influx, pain, and cytokine release. MgCl2 operates at least partially via inhibiting NFκB activation. This is the first in vivo demonstration that MgCl2 decreases cytokine release in arthritis, prompting reduction of inflammation and pain relief.

Patients with longstanding psoriatic arthritis can achieve DAPSA remission or low disease activity and it correlates to better functional outcomes: results from a Latin-American real-life cohort

Abstract Background Patients with psoriatic arthritis (PsA) experience reduced physical function and impaired quality of life. Better patient-reported functional outcomes are found when lower disease activity is achieved. Objectives To evaluate the variation of physical function by HAQ-DI over time in PsA patients treated with standard therapy in a real-life setting: to verify predictors of achieving a minimum clinically important difference (MCID) in function by HAQ-DI (ΔHAQ-DI ≤ − 0.35) and to measure the impact of achieving REM/LDA on long-term function by HAQ-DI. Methods This is a longitudinal analysis of a real-life retrospective cohort. Data from PsA patients with at least 4 years of follow-up in the PsA clinic from 2011 to 2019 were extracted from electronic medical records. The variations of physical function by HAQ-DI and disease activity by DAPSA over time were calculated. A multivariate hierarchical regression model was applied to verify predictors of MCID in HAQ-DI. A comparison of HAQ-DI variation between patients with DAPSA REM, LDA, moderate and high disease activity was made using the generalized estimating equation model (GEE), adjusted by Bonferroni test. The Spearman correlation method was applied to verify the correlation of ΔDAPSA and ΔHAQ-DI over time. Statistical analysis was performed in SPSS program version 21.0. Results Seventy-three patients were included in the analysis. Physical function measured by HAQ-DI was determined by PsA disease activity measured by DAPSA (p < 0.000). A moderate and statistically significant correlation between ΔDAPSA and ΔHAQ-DI was observed (rs = 0.60; p < 0.001). Only patients in DAPSA REM demonstrated a constant decline in HAQ-DI scores during the follow-up. White ethnicity and older age at baseline were predictors for not achieving MCID in HAQ-DI [RR 0.33 (0.16-0.6795% CI p = 0.002) and RR 0.96 (0.93-0.9895% CI p < 0.000), respectively, while higher scores of HAQ-DI at baseline were predictors of achieving MCID [RR 1.71 (1.12-2.6095%CI p = 0.013)]. Conclusion In PsA, patients who maintained DAPSA REM/LDA over time had better long-term functional outcomes. Higher HAQ-DI scores at baseline, non-white ethnicity and younger age were predictors for achieving a clinical meaningful improvement of HAQ-DI.

Comparison between 200 mg generic celecoxib hard capsules and Celebra®: bioequivalence study in healthy male and female subjects under fasting conditions after a single dose / Comparação entre celecoxibe genérico de 200 mg em cápsulas duras e Celebra®: estudo de bioequivalência em indivíduos saudáveis do sexo masculino e feminino, em jejum, após uma dose única

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The objective of this study was to assess the bioequivalence between two 200 mg celecoxib hard capsule formulations administered to healthy male and female participants under fasting conditions with the aim of providing an alternative pharmaceutical product to the reference drug, Celebra®. METHODS: A randomized, open label, single dose, 2x2 crossover trial was conducted with 60 adult healthy subjects under fasting conditions comparing single doses of two celecoxib hard capsules formulation. Pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated following the determination of drugs concentrations in human plasma using a validated liquid chromatography with a tandem mass spectrometer detector method (LC-MS/MS). RESULTS: Statistical analysis provided geometric mean of test/reference ratio, confidence intervals, intra-subject variation coefficient and power of the test to the pharmacokinetic parameters Cmax, AUC0-t, and AUC0-∞. Confidence intervals for the geometric mean (90% CI) of the test/reference drugs for celecoxib were 98.26 to 122.75% for Cmax, 100.27% to 110.78% for AUC0-t, and 96.87% to 110.29% for AUC0-∞. The power of the test found was 95.09% for Cmax, 100.00% for AUC0-t, and 99.99% for AUC0-∞. CONCLUSION: The formulations met the Brazilian standards for interchangeability, as the confidence intervals for Cmax and AUC0-t ratios are within the range of 80% to 125%, thus meeting the requirements of the legislation during market registration. The researched product was approved by the regulatory authorities and became a commercially competitive option to the reference product for the Brazilian population.

RESUMO JUSTIFICATIVA E OBJETIVOS: O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a bioequivalência entre duas formulações de cápsulas duras de celecoxibe de 200 mg administradas a participantes saudáveis do sexo masculino e feminino em condições de jejum com o objetivo de fornecer um produto farmacêutico alternativo ao fármaco de referência, Celebra®. MÉTODOS: Estudo randomizado, aberto, de dose única e cruzado 2x2. Foi conduzido com 60 indivíduos adultos saudáveis em condições de jejum, comparando doses únicas de duas formulações de cápsulas duras de celecoxibe. Os parâmetros farmacocinéticos foram calculados após a determinação das concentrações dos fármacos no plasma humano usando uma cromatografia líquida validada com um método detector de espectrômetro de massa em tandem (LC-MS/MS). RESULTADOS: A análise estatística forneceu a média geométrica da razão teste/referência, os intervalos de confiança, o coeficiente de variação intra-sujeito e o poder do teste para os parâmetros farmacocinéticos Cmáx, AUC0-t e AUC0-∞. Os intervalos de confiança para a média geométrica (IC 90%) dos fármacos teste/referência para o celecoxibe foram 98,26 a 122,75% para Cmáx, 100,27% a 110,78% para AUC0-t e 96,87% a 110,29% para AUC0-∞. O poder do teste encontrado foi de 95,09% para Cmáx, 100,00% para AUC0-t e 99,99% para AUC0-∞. CONCLUSÃO: As formulações atenderam aos padrões brasileiros de intercambialidade, pois os intervalos de confiança para as razões Cmáx e AUC0-t estão dentro da faixa de 80% a 125%, atendendo, assim, às exigências da legislação para o registro no mercado. O produto pesquisado foi aprovado pelas autoridades regulatórias e tornou-se uma opção comercialmente competitiva ao produto de referência para a população brasileira.

Effect of Dioscorea villosa extract and the phytoestrogen diosgenin on ovariectomized mice with zymosan-induced arthritis

Abstract Humans are exposed to natural compounds such as phytoestrogens primarily through diet and supplements. These compounds promote health by alleviating the symptoms and illnesses associated with menopause and arthritis. Diosgenin (DSG) occurs naturally in plants such as Dioscorea villosa (DV) and binds to estrogen receptors, so it may have similar effects to this hormone, including against arthritis. Thus, we investigated the effect of chronic treatment with dry extract of DV and its phytoestrogen DSG on ovariectomized mice with arthritis. We found that dry extract of Dioscorea villosa (DV) contains the phytoestrogen diosgenin (DSG) in its composition. Furthermore, arthritic mice treated with DV and DSG showed reduced neutrophil accumulation in the articular cartilage. Also, the dry extract of DV administered orally (v.o) did not alter the leukocyte count in the joints or promote changes in the reproductive tract. However, DSG altered these parameters, with possible beneficial effects by reducing symptoms related to reproductive aging. Thus, oral treatment with dry extract of DV and subcutaneous (s.c) treatment with DSG showed promise by acting against inflammation caused by arthritis and reducing symptoms in the reproductive tract due to menopause.

Prevalence of positive tuberculin skin test in a Brazilian sample of rheumatoid arthritis and spondylarthritis patients

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: Patients with rheumatic diseases have an increased risk of infections, especially tuberculosis. In this study, we aimed to recognize the positivity rate of tuberculosis skin test in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and spondyloarthritis and the characteristics of the patients with positive results. METHODS: Retrospective study of tuberculosis skin test results in patients followed from 2004 to 2021 in a single rheumatology unit. Data related to clinical and epidemiological features, along with treatment information referring to the period in which the tuberculosis skin test was performed, were collected from patients' charts. RESULTS: A total of 723 tests were identified (448 tests in 269 rheumatoid arthritis patients and 275 in 174 spondyloarthritis patients). In the rheumatoid arthritis sample, 31/275 (11.5%) individuals had positive tests, and in the spondyloarthritis, 38/174 (21.8%) had positive tests. In the rheumatoid arthritis sample, patients with positive tuberculosis skin tests used a higher dose of methotrexate than those with negative results (median of 25 mg/week versus median of 20 mg/week respectively; p=0.02). In the spondyloarthritis sample, tuberculosis skin test positivity was associated with alcohol ingestion (13.1% versus 2.9% in users and non-users respectively; p=0.02) and sulfasalazine use (15.7% of positivity in users versus 5% in non-users; p=0.01). CONCLUSION: The tuberculosis skin test-positive prevalence in rheumatoid arthritis was lower than in the spondyloarthritis sample. Patients with rheumatoid arthritis using a higher dosage of methotrexate or with spondyloarthritis using sulfasalazine had more frequency of tuberculosis skin test positivity and should be carefully followed by the attending physician in order to avoid the appearance of full-blown tuberculosis.

Comparative effectiveness of abatacept versus TNF inhibitors in rheumatoid arthritis patients who are ACPA and shared epitope positive

Abstract Background The HLA-DRB1 shared epitope (SE) is a risk factor for the development of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and the production of anti-citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPAs) in RA patients. Our objective was to examine the real-world effectiveness of abatacept versus tumor necrosis factor inhibitors (TNFi) in patients with RA who were SE and anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibody (anti-CCP3) positive. Methods Abatacept or TNFi initiators who were SE + and anti-CCP3+ (> 20 U/mL) at or prior to treatment and had moderate or high CDAI score (> 10) at initiation were identified. The primary outcome was mean change in CDAI score over six months. Analyses were conducted in propensity score (PS)-trimmed and -matched populations overall and a biologic-experienced subgroup. Mixed-effects models were used. Results In the overall PS-trimmed (abatacept, n = 170; TNFi, n = 157) and PS-matched cohorts (abatacept, n = 111; TNFi, n = 111), there were numerically greater improvements in mean change in CDAI between abatacept and TNFi but were not statistically significant. Similar trends were seen for biologic-experienced patients, except that statistical significance was reached for mean change in CDAI in the PS-trimmed cohort (abatacept, 12.22 [95% confidence interval (95%CI) 10.13 to 14.31]; TNFi, 9.28 [95%CI 7.08 to 11.48]; p = 0.045). Conclusion In this real world cohort, there were numerical improvements in efficacy outcomes with abatacept over TNFi in patients with RA who were SE + and ACPA+, similar to results from a clinical trial population The only statistically significant finding after adjusting for covariates was greater improvement in CDAI with abatacept versus TNFi in the bio-experienced PS-trimmed cohort. .

Clinical significance of long non-coding RNA NORAD in rheumatoid arthritis

Abstract Background Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that may cause joint deformities and seriously affect the normal life of the patients. In order to enable patients to receive timely attention and treatment, this study developed new diagnostic markers by exploring the expression and molecular mechanism of the long non-coding RNA NORAD (NORAD) in RA. Methods Participants including 77 RA patients and 52 healthy persons were enrolled, and the corresponding clinical data and serum samples were obtained. The NORAD and miR-204-5p expression were detected by real-time fluorescence quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). The content of inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, TNF-α) were determined through enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Luciferase activity reporter assay demonstrated the association between NORAD and miR-204-5p. In addition, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to evaluate the diagnostic efficacy of NORAD, and Pearson's correlation analysis was applied for the correlation analysis. Results NORAD was enriched in RA serum with high diagnostic value. Simultaneously, IL-6 and TNF-α levels were also upregulated (P < 0.001). The C-reactive protein (CRP), rheumatoid factor (RF), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibody (Anti-CCP) levels in RA patients were generally elevated (P < 0.001). NORAD was positively correlated with the levels of clinical indicators and inflammatory factors (P < 0.0001). Mechanistically, NORAD may affect the progression of RA by targeting and negatively regulating miR-204-5p. Conclusions There is a correlation between NORAD and the processes of RA, and NORAD has the potential to predict and diagnose the occurrence of RA.

Connective tissue disease-associated interstitial lung disease / Doença pulmonar intersticial associada a doença do tecido conjuntivo

ABSTRACT Connective tissue disease-associated interstitial lung disease (CTD-ILD) represents a group of systemic autoimmune disorders characterized by immune-mediated organ dysfunction. Systemic sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, idiopathic inflammatory myositis, and Sjögren's syndrome are the most common CTDs that present with pulmonary involvement, as well as with interstitial pneumonia with autoimmune features. The frequency of CTD-ILD varies according to the type of CTD, but the overall incidence is 15%, causing an important impact on morbidity and mortality. The decision of which CTD patient should be investigated for ILD is unclear for many CTDs. Besides that, the clinical spectrum can range from asymptomatic findings on imaging to respiratory failure and death. A significant proportion of patients will present with a more severe and progressive disease, and, for those, immunosuppression with corticosteroids and cytotoxic medications are the mainstay of pharmacological treatment. In this review, we summarized the approach to diagnosis and treatment of CTD-ILD, highlighting recent advances in therapeutics for the various forms of CTD.

RESUMO Doença pulmonar intersticial associada à doença do tecido conjuntivo (DPI-DTC) representa um grupo de distúrbios autoimunes sistêmicos caracterizados por disfunção de órgãos imunomediada. Esclerose sistêmica, artrite reumatoide, miosite inflamatória idiopática e síndrome de Sjögren são as DTC mais comuns que apresentam acometimento pulmonar, bem como pneumonia intersticial com achados autoimunes. A frequência de DPI-DTC varia de acordo com o tipo de DTC, mas a incidência total é de 15%, causando um impacto importante na morbidade e mortalidade. A decisão sobre qual paciente com DTC deve ser investigado para DPI não é clara para muitas DTC. Além disso, o espectro clínico pode variar desde achados assintomáticos em exames de imagem até insuficiência respiratória e morte. Parte significativa dos pacientes apresentará doença mais grave e progressiva, e, para esses pacientes, imunossupressão com corticosteroides e medicamentos citotóxicos são a base do tratamento farmacológico. Nesta revisão, resumimos a abordagem do diagnóstico e tratamento de DPI-DTC, destacando os recentes avanços na terapêutica para as diversas formas de DTC.

Vacunación contra el SARS-CoV-2 en pacientes paraguayos con artritis reumatoide

Introducción: La vacunación en poblaciones expuestas a mayor riesgo de enfermedad grave y muerte consecuentes a la infección por SARS-CoV-2, ha generado un gran impacto en la salud pública mundial. Indudablemente, el beneficio ha sido evidenciado mayormente en personas con comorbilidades crónicas, donde la artritis reumatoide (AR) juega un rol importante. Objetivo: Analizar la vacunación contra Sars-CoV-2 en pacientes paraguayos con AR, durante la pandemia COVID-19. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio multicéntrico, en el que se analizó transversalmente a una cohorte de pacientes con AR, durante el periodo de octubre a diciembre del año 2022. Para el estudio se registraron variables clínico-epidemiológicas y relacionadas con la vacunación (i.e. acceso a la vacunación, tipo, número de dosis). Se realizó un análisis descriptivo de las variables con el software R-4.3.2. Resultados: Se incluyeron 568 pacientes, 84,1% eran mujeres, con un promedio de edad de 55,5±13,9 años. El 88,7% (504) pacientes, recibieron al menos una dosis de vacuna contra SARS-CoV-2. 85% (483) recibieron dos dosis, mientras que el 60,9% (344) pacientes recibieron el primer refuerzo, y 21,2% el segundo refuerzo. Conclusiones: En esta serie de pacientes paraguayos con AR el porcentaje de vacunación contra SARS-CoV-2 fue más elevado que el registrado en la población general del país. Esto podría estar relacionado con la prioridad de esta población para acceder a las vacunas y a la insistencia de sus médicos en completar el esquema de vacunación.

Introduction: Vaccination in populations exposed to increased risk of severe disease and death consequent to SARS-CoV-2 infection has generated a major impact on global Public Health. Certainly, the benefit has been evidenced mostly in people with chronic comorbidities, where rheumatoid arthritis (RA) plays an important role. Objective: To analyze vaccination against Sars-CoV-2 in paraguayan patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) during the COVID19 pandemic. Methods: A multicenter study was carried out, in which a cohort of patients with RA was analyzed cross-sectionally, during the period from October to December 2022. For the study, clinical-epidemiological and vaccination-related variables were recorded (i.e. access to vaccination, type, number of doses). A descriptive analysis of the variables was carried out with the R-4.3.2 software. Results: 568 patients were included, 84.1% were female, with an average age of 55.5±13.9 years. 88.7% (504) patients received at least one dose of SARS-CoV-2 vaccine, 85% (483) received two doses, while 60.9% (344) patients received the first booster, and 21.2% the second booster. Conclusions: In this series of Paraguayan patients with RA the percentage of vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 was higher than that registered in the general population of the country. This could be related to the priority of this population to access vaccines and the insistence of their physicians to complete the vaccination schedule.

Tratamiento de las manifestaciones articulares en fase crónica de la fiebre chikungunya

La fiebre Chikungunya es causada por un arbovirus ARN perteneciente a la familia Togaviridae del género alphavirus, llamado "virus del chikungunya", este virus tiene como vector el Aedes aegypti y el Aedes albopictus. En su fase aguda la enfermedad se manifiesta por fiebre, artritis o artralgias severas, mialgias, cefalea, fotofobia, linfadenopatías y brotes cutáneos, los síntomas pueden progresar a una fase subaguda hasta crónica, donde persisten las manifestaciones articulares y la fatiga. Se realizó una revisión sistemática en las bases de PubMed, Cochrane, Dovepress y SciELO, utilizando las palabras claves: chikungunya y chikunguña, cruzadas con las palabras: artritis crónica y tratamiento. Se incluyeron en el estudio un total de 16 artículos, 6 artículos de revisión, 4 artículos originales, 2 ensayos clínicos, 2 reportes de caso, 1 revisión sistemática y 1 carta al editor. Entre las opciones farmacológicas, el metotrexato es el fármaco más estudiado y compite con los efectos de los AINE. Como terapias no farmacológicas se encuentran la fisioterapia y la terapia física, utilizados como complementos a la terapia farmacológica. El uso de terapias caseras, incluso la homeopatía, también podrían agregarse, atendiendo principalmente el factor psíquico y cultural de los pacientes.

Chikungunya fever is caused by an RNA arbovirus belonging to the Togaviridae family of the alphavirus genus, called "chikungunya virus", this virus is vectored by Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus. In its acute phase, the disease is manifested by fever, arthritis or severe arthralgia, myalgia, headache, photophobia, lymphadenopathy and skin rashes. The symptoms can progress to a subacute to chronic phase, where joint manifestations and fatigue persist. A bibliographic search was carried out in the PubMed, Cochrane, Dovepress and SciELO databases, using the keywords: chikungunya and chikunguña, crossed with the words: chronic arthritis and treatment. A total of 16 articles were included: 6 review articles, 1 systematic review, 4 original articles, 2 clinical trials, 1 letter to Editor letter and 2 case reports. Among the pharmacological options, methotrexate is the most studied drug and competes with the effects of NSAIDs. Non-pharmacological therapies are physiotherapy and physical therapy, used as complements to pharmacological therapy. The use of home therapies, including homeopathy, could also be added, mainly addressing the psychological and cultural factors of the patients.

Estudio de factores clínicos y epidemiológicos en pacientes con diagnóstico de artritis reumatoidea

Fundamento: la artritis reumatoidea es una enfermedad autoinmunitaria crónica que produce daño articular crónico e irreversible que conlleva al deterioro de la calidad de vida y discapacidad permanente con prevalencia mundial de entre 1,0 y 1,5 %. Objetivo: identificar las principales características clínico-epidemiológicas de pacientes con artritis reumatoidea en el Policlínico Docente Área Este de Camagüey. Métodos: se realizó un estudio descriptivo, de serie de casos, realizado en el Policlínico Docente Área Este de Camagüey. Del universo de 108 pacientes fue seleccionada una muestra de 102, una vez aplicados los criterios de elección. Se estudiaron las variables: grupo etáreo, sexo, color de la piel, años de diagnóstico, signos y síntomas clínicos, factores de riesgo; así como complicaciones presentadas. Para el procesamiento de los datos se empleó SPSS y se expresaron en valores absolutos y porcentajes. Resultados: predominó el grupo etáreo de 60 años y más (45,0 %), las mujeres (75,5 %), pacientes de color de piel blanca (66,7 %), con artritis reumatoidea de 16-20 años de evolución (22,5 %), vasculitis (25,5 %) y dolor (94,1 %) dentro de los principales signos y síntomas, mientras el consumo de café (69,6 %) y el sexo femenino se encontraron dentro los factores de riesgo modificables y no modificables. La osteoporosis fue la más notable de las complicaciones presentadas (69,6 %). Conclusiones: en la serie estudiada sobresalió el sexo femenino, la edad avanzada, el dolor como síntoma principal, así como la osteoporosis dentro de las complicaciones presentadas.

Foundation: rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease that produces chronic and irreversible joint damage that leads to deterioration in quality of life and permanent disability with a worldwide prevalence of between 1.0 and 1.5 %. Objective: to identify the main clinical-epidemiological characteristics of patients with rheumatoid arthritis in the Eastern Area Teaching Polyclinic of Camagüey. Methods: a descriptive case series study was carried out at the Eastern Area Teaching Polyclinic of Camagüey. From the universe of 108 patients, a sample of 102 was selected, once the selection criteria were applied. The variables were studied: age group, sex, skin color, years of diagnosis, clinical signs and symptoms, risk factors; as well as complications presented. SPSS was used to process the data and they were expressed in absolute values ​​and percentages. Results: the age group of 60 years and older predominated (45.0 %), women (75.5 %), patients of white skin color (66.7 %), with rheumatoid arthritis of 16-20 years of evolution (22.5 %), vasculitis (25.5 %) and pain (94.1 %) among the main signs and symptoms, while coffee consumption (69.6 %) and female sex were found among the risk factors. modifiable and non-modifiable risk. Osteoporosis was the most notable of the complications presented (69.6 %). Conclusions: in the series studied, female sex, advanced age, pain as the main symptom, as well as osteoporosis stood out among the complications presented.

Actividad y discapacidad en pacientes cubanos con artritis reumatoide como factores que influyen en la sexualidad

Introducción: La artritis reumatoide es una enfermedad autoinmune de carácter inflamatorio y crónico. La afectación en la esfera sexual es frecuente, compromete a ambos sexos y se relaciona con factores como el dolor, la discapacidad y el consumo de medicamentos. Esta afectación no ha sido suficientemente abordada en la literatura a pesar de su prevalencia, y en Cuba no se han reportado hasta el momento estudios relacionados sobre este tema de investigación. Objetivo: Determinar el impacto de la artritis reumatoide en la sexualidad y su relación en la actividad y la discapacidad. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio monocéntrico, transversal, descriptivo. Se incluyeron los pacientes con un diagnóstico de artritis reumatoide en el período comprendido de septiembre de 2019 a junio de 2021. Se utilizó el cuestionario Qualisex para evaluar el impacto de la artritis reumatoide en la sexualidad. Resultados: En el estudio doscientos veintiséis pacientes fueron incluidos, la media de edad fue de 53,38 años (DE ± 12,22) el 82,7 % fueron mujeres. Al responder el autocuestionario Qualisex el 73,9 % de los sujetos presentaron afectación en la sexualidad. No se estableció una relación significativa entre la afectación en la esfera sexual y el tiempo de evolución. A diferencia de los niveles altos de actividad y discapacidad. Conclusiones: En la población estudiada se presentó afectación en la sexualidad, no obstante, esta no se relacionó con el tiempo de evolución de la artritis reumatoide. Se encontró asociación entre la actividad de la enfermedad y la capacidad funcional con la afectación en la esfera sexual.

Introduction: Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic, inflammatory autoimmune disease. Disorders in the sexual sphere is frequent, it affects both sexes and it is related to factors such as pain, disability and medication consumption. This condition has not been sufficiently addressed in the literature despite its prevalence and in Cuba no studies related to the topic under study have been reported to date. Objective: To determine the impact of rheumatoid arthritis on sexuality and its relationship with activity and disability. Methods: A monocentric, cross-sectional and descriptive study was carried out on patients with a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis, from September 2019 to June 2021. The Qualisex questionnaire was used to evaluate the impact of rheumatoid arthritis on sexuality. Results: Two hundred twenty-six patients were included, the mean age was 53.38 years (SD ± 12.22) and 82.7% were women. When answering the Qualisex self-questionnaire, 73.9% of the subjects had effects in their sexuality. No significant relationship was established between the involvement in the sexual sphere and the time of evolution. Conclusions: The impact on sexuality in the studied population was not related to the duration of rheumatoid arthritis. On the other hand, an association was found between disease activity and functional capacity with effects in the sexual sphere.

Tasa de publicaciones de trabajos presentados sobre artritis reumatoidea en congresos de Reumatología / Publication rates of papers on rheumatoid arthritis submitted to Congresses of Rheumatology

Resumen Introducción: se publica una minoría de todos los trabajos presentados en los Congresos Argentinos de Reumatología (CAR). Objetivos: analizar los temas de estudio (TDE) de los trabajos sobre artritis reumatoidea (AR) presentados en los CAR y su tasa de publicación. Materiales y métodos: se analizaron todos los resúmenes sobre AR, como motivo primario de estudio, presentados en los CAR entre 2008 y 2017. Se agruparon según TDE, y se determinaron los TDE repetidos definidos como, al menos, dos estudios similares presentados sobre el mismo tema. Se determinó la tasa de publicación, el número de estudios similares por TDE, el número de centros participantes y el número de pacientes estudiados. Resultados: sobre 346 trabajos presentados, 51 (14,7%) fueron publicados. Se publicaron 14 (11,9%) de los 118 estudios sobre TDE repetidos versus 37 (16,2%) del resto de los TDE (p=0,4). Los trabajos sobre TDE repetidos no incluyeron más pacientes ni involucraron a un número mayor de centros. Se encontraron 13 TDE repetidos con al menos tres estudios similares y ningún estudio publicado. Conclusiones: solo una minoría de los trabajos sobre AR se publicó. Un tercio de los trabajos presentados en los CAR correspondió a TDE repetidos, que no mejoraron la tasa de publicación.

Abstract Introduction: only a few articles submitted to the Argentine Congress of Rheumatology (ACOR) are published. Objectives: to analyse the topics of study (TOS) and the publication rate of articles on rheumatoid arthritis (RA) submitted to the ACOR. Materials and methods: every abstract submitted to the ACOR between 2008 and 2017, whose primary research subject was RA, was analyzed and sorted according to TOS. Repeated TOS, defined as at least two similar studies on the same topic, were identified. The publication rate and the number of similar studies according to TOS, participating centers, and patients were determined. Results: out of 346 articles submitted, 51 (14.7%) were published. Fourteen (11.9%) of the 118 studies on repeated TOS were published vs. 37 (16.2%) of the rest of the TOS (p: 0.4). The articles on repeated TOS neither included more patients nor involved a higher number of centers. Thirteen repeated TOS with at least three similar studies, but no published articles were identified. Conclusions: only a few articles on RA were published. One third of the studies submitted to the ACOR are repeated TOS, a fact that does not improve the publication rate.

Consecuencias de la artritis reumatoide en la articulación temporomandibular y su manejo odontológico / Consequences of rheumatoid arthritis in the temporomandibular joint and its dental management

Introducción: la artritis reumatoide es parte del grupo de las enfermedades autoinmunes con incidencia considerable sobre la población. Se caracteriza por la afección de las articulaciones del cuerpo que la padece; en mayor frecuencia se encuentra afectada la articulación temporomandibular por el complejo articular que ésta presenta; entre los signos y síntomas que comúnmente podemos encontrar en pacientes con este tipo de enfermedad son los chasquidos o ruidos articulares, dolor orofacial, pérdida o imposibilidad del movimiento de la mandíbula y cambios anatómicos localizados en el área de la articulación temporomandibular. Objetivo: describir las consecuencias que desencadena la artritis reumatoide sobre la articulación temporomandibular y cómo es para el odontólogo el manejo de estos pacientes en consulta, evaluar los tratamientos para cada caso sobre un correcto diagnóstico. Material y métodos: se realizó una revisión bibliográfica de artículos recientes sobre el tema, utilizando buscadores como SciELO, Elsevier y PubMed, siendo 30 las fuentes seleccionadas con idiomas en inglés y español. Resultados: esta enfermedad autoinmune se caracteriza por afectar múltiples articulaciones del cuerpo humano simétrica y bilateralmente incluyendo la articulación temporomandibular (ATM), lo cual conlleva al riesgo de desarrollar trastornos temporomandibulares (TTM). Es importante conocer los métodos para realizar un correcto diagnóstico oportuno de la ATM del paciente con artritis reumatoide (AR) con la finalidad de ofrecer un tratamiento conservador. Conclusión: los trastornos temporomandibulares desencadenantes de la artritis reumatoide son afecciones que se deben considerar para el buen manejo del paciente con este padecimiento, comprender y respaldar un diagnóstico clínico es de vital importancia para dar al paciente un tratamiento adecuado dependiendo el grado de complejidad en la que cada individuo se encuentra; conocer el manejo adecuado y encaminar al paciente a una mejor calidad de vida es clave en la consulta odontológica del día a día (AU)

Introduction: rheumatoid arthritis is part of the group of autoimmune diseases with considerable incidence in the population. It is characterized by the affection of the joints of the body that suffers from it; most frequently the temporomandibular joint is affected due to the articular complex that it presents; among the signs and symptoms that we can commonly find in patients with this type of disease are joint clicks or noises, orofacial pain, loss or impossibility of jaw movement and anatomical changes located in the temporomandibular joint area. Objective: to describe the consequences that rheumatoid arthritis triggers on the temporomandibular joint and how it is for the dentist to manage these patients in consultation, to evaluate the treatments for each case on a correct diagnosis. Material and methods: a bibliographic review of recent articles on the subject was carried out, using search engines such as SciELO, Elsevier and PubMed, with 30 sources selected in English and Spanish. Results: this autoimmune disease is characterized by affecting multiple joints of the human body symmetrical and bilaterally including the TMJ which leads to the risk of developing TMD. It is important to know the methods to make a correct diagnosis of the TMJ of the patient with RA in order to offer a conservative treatment. Conclusions: the temporomandibular disorders that trigger rheumatoid arthritis are conditions that should be considered for the proper management of the patient with this condition, understanding and supporting a clinical diagnosis is of vital importance to give the patient an adequate treatment depending on the degree of complexity in which each individual is; knowing the proper management and directing the patient to a better quality of life is key in the day-to-day dental practice (AU)

Factores de riesgo cardiovascular en pacientes con artritis psoriásica / Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Patients with Psoriatic Arthritis

Introducción: La presencia de factores de riesgo cardiovascular agrava el pronóstico de los pacientes con artritis psoriásica. Objetivo: Determinar los factores de riesgo cardiovascular en pacientes con diagnóstico de artritis psoriásica. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo de corte transversal, en el Servicio de Reumatología del Hospital Hermanos Ameijeiras, en el período de enero de 2021 a abril de 2022. Se recogieron variables demográficas, clínicas y hemoquímicas relacionadas con la enfermedad, así como el score de riesgo de Framingham y la evaluación de aterosclerosis carotídea subclínica. Resultados: Se incluyeron 89 pacientes con edad media de 56,3 ± 11,8 años, 69,7 por ciento del sexo femenino 48,3 por ciento con evolución mayor de 10 años y 77,5 por ciento con afectación periférica. La actividad de la enfermedad por el índice ASDAS fue alta (55,1 por ciento) igual que por BASDAI (68,5 por ciento). Los factores de riesgo cardiovascular más frecuentes fueron: dislipidemia (61,8 por ciento), obesidad (59,6 por ciento) hipertensión arterial (50,6 por ciento). La obesidad, la diabetes y la hipertensión arterial fueron mayores en pacientes con elevada actividad de la enfermedad. La aterosclerosis carotídea fue mayor en pacientes con tabaquismo, diabetes y dislipidemia. El 39,3 por ciento presentó grosor íntima media aumentado, y el 27,0 por ciento con presencia de placa carotídea. En pacientes con aterosclerosis carotídea el 25,7 por ciento fue considerado como riesgo bajo por Framingham. Conclusiones: Los factores de riesgo cardiovascular se presentaron con una frecuencia elevada, asociado a la aterosclerosis subclínica, a la actividad inflamatoria y a una subestimación de riesgo por la escala de Framingham(AU)

Introduction: The presence of cardiovascular risk factors aggravates the prognosis of patients with psoriatic arthritis. Objective: To determine cardiovascular risk factors in patients diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out at the Rheumatology Service of Hermanos Ameijeiras Hospital from January 2021 to April 2022. Demographic, clinical, and hemochemical variables related to the disease were collected, as well as Framingham risk score and he evaluation of subclinical carotid atherosclerosis. Results: Eighty nine patients with mean age of 56.3 ± 11.8 years were included, 69.7percent female, 48.3percent with evolution older than 10 years and 77.5percent with peripheral involvement. Disease activity by ASDAS index was high (55.1percent), the same as by BASDAI (68.5percent). The most frequent cardiovascular risk factors were dyslipidemia (61.8percent), obesity (59.6percent) and arterial hypertension (50.6percent). Obesity, diabetes and arterial hypertension were higher in patients with high disease activity. Carotid atherosclerosis was higher in patients with smoking habits, diabetes, and dyslipidemia. 39.3percent showed increased intima media thickness and 27.0% had carotid plaque. In patients with carotid atherosclerosis, 25.7percent were considered low risk by Framingham. Conclusions: Cardiovascular risk factors occurred with high frequency, associated with subclinical atherosclerosis, inflammatory activity and underestimation of risk by the Framingham scale(AU)

Hipogamaglobulinemia e rituximabe: relato de casos / Hypogammaglobulinemia and rituximab: case reports

Secondary immunodeficiency can result from neoplasms, infections, or immunosuppressive therapy. Rituximab (RTX) is an anti-CD20 antibody that depletes B lymphocytes and can induce symptomatic hypogammaglobulinemia. We report 3 cases of symptomatic hypogammaglobulinemia associated with the use of RTX. In patient 1 with rheumatoid arthritis, RTX induced low levels of immunoglobulins and recurrent airway infections. RTX discontinuation led to a normalization of the humoral immune response. Patients 2 and 3, treated with RTX for non-Hodgkin lymphoma and systemic lupus erythematosus, respectively, developed persistent secondary hypogammaglobulinemia requiring immunoglobulin replacement therapy for years. After RTX discontinuation, patients may experience rapid recovery of humoral function or remain with low serum immunoglobulin levels for extended periods. With the increasing use of therapies targeting components of the immune system, a high degree of clinical suspicion for the development of secondary immunodeficiency may minimize the morbidity and mortality associated with these therapies.

As imunodeficiências secundárias podem ser uma consequência de neoplasias, infecções ou tratamentos imunossupressores. O rituximabe (RTX) é um anticorpo anti-CD20 que depleta os linfócitos B e pode induzir uma hipogamaglobulinemia sintomática. Aqui, relatamos três casos de hipogamaglobulinemia sintomática associada ao uso de RTX. Na primeira paciente com artrite reumatoide, o RTX induziu a baixos níveis de imunoglobulinas associadas a infecções de vias aéreas de repetição. Após a suspensão do RTX, houve normalização da resposta imune humoral. Os outros dois casos, com o uso de RTX para tratamento de linfoma não-Hodgkin e lúpus eritematoso sistêmico, respectivamente, as pacientes evoluíram com hipogamaglobulinemia secundária persistente, com necessidade de reposição de imunoglobulina por vários anos. Pacientes tratados com RTX podem apresentar, após a sua suspensão, uma recuperação rápida da função humoral ou permanecerem com baixos níveis séricos de imunoglobulinas por longos períodos. Com o crescente uso dos tratamentos direcionados para componentes do sistema imunológico, um alto grau de suspeição clínica para o aparecimento de imunodeficiências secundárias pode minimizar a morbimortalidade associada a estes tratamentos.

Estudio de los pacientes con monoartritis aguda en un hospital de tercer nivel / Acute monoarthritis in a third level hospital

Resumen Introducción: La monoartritis aguda (MA) represen ta una causa relevante de morbilidad que requiere de atención médica oportuna: El estudio del líquido sino vial constituye un elemento clave para su diagnóstico. El objetivo del estudio fue determinar la frecuencia y características clínicas-analíticas de los episodios de MA y bursitis agudas valoradas en un hospital durante un período de 6 años. Métodos: Estudio analítico retrospectivo de corte transversal en un hospital de Córdoba, Argentina. Se identificaron todos los episodios de monoartritis y bur sitis agudas que ocurrieron en pacientes de ≥18 años entre 2012 y 2017. Se excluyeron los cuadros de MA en embarazadas y las monoartritis crónicas. Resultados: Se incluyeron 180 episodios de MA y 12 de bursitis aguda. Entre las MA, 120 (66.7%) ocurrieron en hombres, la edad promedio fue 62.1±16.9 años. La principal causa de MA fue séptica, identificándose 70 (36%) casos, seguida la secundaria a microcristales con 54 episodios (28%) que correspondieron 27 (14%) a MA por gota y 27 (14%) a MA por depósitos de pirofosfato de calcio dihidratado (CPPD). Se identificaron cristales de urato monosódico en 26 (14.3%) pacientes, CPPD en 28 (15.6%) y de colesterol en 1 (0.6%). Discusión: La principal causa de MA fue séptica, seguida de la secundaria a microcristales (gota y secun daria a CPPD). La principal articulación afectada fue la rodilla, seguida del hombro. El análisis del líquido sino vial fue un elemento clave a la hora de poder realizar el diagnóstico diferencial entre las distintas causas de monoartritis aguda y bursitis.

Abstract Introduction: Acute monoarthritis (AM) represents a relevant cause of morbidity that requires prompt medical care. The study of synovial fluid becomes re levant to allow a rapid diagnostic approach. The main objective of the study was to determine the frequency and clinical-analytical characteristics of episodes of AM and acute bursitis evaluated in a hospital during a period of 6 years. Methods: Cross-sectional retrospective analytical study in a hospital at Córdoba, Argentina. All episodes of acute monoarthritis and bursitis that occurred in patients aged 18 years or older between 2012 and 2017 were included. AM in pregnant women and chronic monoarthritis were excluded. Results: One hundred and eighty episodes of AM and 12 of acute bursitis were included. Among the AM, 120 (66.7%) occurred in male patients and the average age was 62.1±16.9 years. The main cause of AM was septic, identifying 70 (36%) cases, followed by microcrystalline AM identify 54 (28%) cases, which corresponded to gout and calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate (CPPD) with 27 (14%) cases each one. Monosodium urate crystals were identified in 26 (14.3%) patients, CPPD in 28 (15.6%) and cholesterol in 1 (0.6%). Discussion: The main cause of AM was septic arthri tis, followed by microcrystalline AM (gout and secondary to CPPD). The main affected joint was the knee, followed by the shoulder. Synovial fluid analysis was a key ele ment when making the differential diagnosis between the different causes of acute monoarthritis and bursitis.