Awareness of patients receiving bisphosphonates: a cross-sectional study

Abstract The aim of this study was to evaluate the awareness of patients using bisphosphonates (BP) regarding their risks and benefits. Sixty-five patients using BP were included. Each participant completed a self-administered questionnaire consisting of 13 questions, including sociodemographic and general information on BP. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and a binomial test was used to assess patient knowledge about BP, considering a 5% significance level. Fifty-nine (90.2%) patients were unaware or had never heard of BP drugs and only 3 (4.6%) knew their indications. Only 6 patients (9.2%) said they knew about the oral complications caused by BP. Sixty-three patients (96.9%) said they were not referred to the dentist before starting BP treatment. Patients using BP do not have satisfactory knowledge regarding the risks and benefits of BP. Physicians and dentists must be prepared to inform and counsel BP users about their adverse effects and possible risk factors. Our results emphasize the importance of public policies, whether individual or collective, to be taken to increase knowledge about BP to avoid medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw.

Factors associated with hospitalizations for Covid-19 in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: data from the Reumacov Brazil registry

Abstract Background: Patients using immunosuppressive drugs may have unfavorable results after infections. However, there is a lack of information regarding COVID 19 in these patients, especially in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the risk factors associated with COVID 19 hospitalizations in patients with RA. Methods: This multicenter, prospective cohort study is within the ReumaCoV Brazil registry and included 489 patients with RA. In this context, 269 patients who tested positive for COVID 19 were compared to 220 patients who tested negative for COVID 19 (control group). All patient data were collected from the Research Electronic Data Capture database. Results: The participants were predominantly female (90.6%) with a mean age of 53 ±12 years. Of the patients with COVID 19, 54 (20.1%) required hospitalization. After multiple adjustments, the final regression model showed that heart disease (OR =4.61, 95% CI 1.06-20.02. P < 0.001) and current use of glucocorticoids (OR =20.66, 95% CI 3.09-138. P < 0.002) were the risk factors associated with hospitalization. In addition, anosmia was associated with a lower chance of hospitalization (OR =0.26; 95% CI 0.10-0.67, P < 0.005). Conclusion: Our results demonstrated that heart disease and the use of glucocorticoids were associated with a higher number of hospital admissions for COVID 19 in patients with RA. Trial registration: Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials RBR 33YTQC.

Chronic use of hydroxychloroquine did not protect against COVID-19 in a large cohort of patients with rheumatic diseases in Brazil

Abstract Background: There is a lack of information on the role of chronic use of hydroxychloroquine during the SARS-CoV-2 outbreak. Our aim was to compare the occurrence of COVID-19 between rheumatic disease patients on hydroxychloroquine with individuals from the same household not taking the drug during the first 8 weeks of community viral transmission in Brazil. Methods: This baseline cross-sectional analysis is part of a 24-week observational multi-center study involving 22 Brazilian academic outpatient centers. All information regarding COVID-19 symptoms, epidemiological, clinical, and demographic data were recorded on a specific web-based platform using telephone calls from physicians and medical students. COVID-19 was defined according to the Brazilian Ministry of Health (BMH) criteria. Mann-Whitney, Chi-square and Exact Fisher tests were used for statistical analysis and two binary Final Logistic Regression Model by Wald test were developed using a backward-stepwise method for the presence of COVID-19. Results: From March 29th to May 17st, 2020, a total of 10,443 participants were enrolled, including 5166 (53.9%) rheumatic disease patients, of whom 82.5% had systemic erythematosus lupus, 7.8% rheumatoid arthritis, 3.7% Sjögren's syndrome and 0.8% systemic sclerosis. In total, 1822 (19.1%) participants reported flu symptoms within the 30 days prior to enrollment, of which 3.1% fulfilled the BMH criteria, but with no significant difference between rheumatic disease patients (4.03%) and controls (3.25%). After adjustments for multiple confounders, the main risk factor significantly associated with a COVID-19 diagnosis was lung disease (OR 1.63; 95% CI 1.03-2.58); and for rheumatic disease patients were diagnosis of systemic sclerosis (OR 2.8; 95% CI 1.19-6.63) and glucocorticoids above 10 mg/ day (OR 2.05; 95% CI 1.31-3.19). In addition, a recent influenza vaccination had a protective effect (OR 0.674; 95% CI 0.46-0.98). Conclusion: Patients with rheumatic disease on hydroxychloroquine presented a similar occurrence of COVID-19 to household cohabitants, suggesting a lack of any protective role against SARS-CoV-2 infection. Trial registration Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials (ReBEC; RBR - 9KTWX6).

Psoriatic Arthritis Quality of Life Questionnaire: translation, cultural adaptation and validation into Brazilian Portuguese language

Abstract Introduction: Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a multifaceted inflammatory disease that can cause joint destruction and impair quality of life. The Psoriatic Arthritis Quality of Life Questionnaire (PsAQoL) was the first disease-specific tool for determining the impact of the disease on the quality of life of people with PsA. Objectives: The primary objective was to develop and validate a Brazilian Portuguese version of the PsAQoL. Methods: The UK PsAQoL was translated into Brazilian Portuguese using two translation panels. This translation then checked for face validity and construct validity with new samples of patients. Finally, a test-retest validation study was conducted with 52 patients with PsA. The survey included the Nottingham Health Profile (NHP) as a comparator instrument. Results: Internal consistency and reproducibility were both excellent for the new adaptation (0.91 and 0.90 respectively Scores on the PsAQoL were found to correlate as expected with the comparator measure and the instrument was able to detect differences in score related to perceived severity of PsA, general health status and presence of a flare. Conclusions: The Brazilian PsAQoL was found easy to understand and complete and has excellent reliability and construct validity. The new measure will be a valuable new tool for use in routine PsA practice and clinical trials.

Long-Term Persistence of Serum-Specific Anti-Chikungunya IgM Antibody - A Case Series of Brazilian Patients

Abstract The persistence of serum-specific anti-chikungunya IgM antibodies (CHIKV-IgM) can vary after chikungunya fever (CHIK) infection. However, the factors related to its production are not yet known. We described a case series drawn up from data collected from 57 patients between 12 and 36 months after the acute phase of CHIK infection in Northeastern Brazil. CHIKV-IgM was detectable in 7/57 (12.3%) patients after 28.3 months of infection. No frequency differences in chronic musculoskeletal manifestations and underlying conditions were detected between patients with or without CHIKV-IgM. CHIKV-IgM was detected for up to 35 months in Brazilian patients after CHIK infection.

Evaluation of quality of life, functionality and disability in patients with systemic sclerosis in a university hospital / Avaliação da qualidade de vida, funcionalidade e deficiência em pacientes com esclerose sistêmica em um hospital universitário

INTRODUCTION: Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by progressive fibrosis of the skin and internal organs that promotes high morbidity and mortality. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the functionality, disability and quality of life of patients with systemic sclerosis and to compare the clinical forms of the disease. METHODS: Cross-sectional, descriptive and analytical study performed at the Rheumatology Clinic of the Hospital das Clínicas of the Federal University of Pernambuco (HC-UFPE) from August 2018 to April 2019. The non-probabilistic, convenience sample consisted of 60 patients diagnosed with systemic sclerosis (SSc), followed at the Rheumatology outpatient clinic of the Hospital das Clínicas, Federal University of Pernambuco. To evaluate the outcomes, the following instruments were used: Cochin Hand Functional Scale (CHFS) for hand function; 12-Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-12) for quality of life; and Scleroderma Health Assessment Questionnaire (SHAQ) for functionality and disability. RESULTS: The mean results for CHFS, SHAQ, SF-12 Physical Component Summary and SF-12 Mental Component Summary were 14.5 (6.0-29.75), 1.01±0.56, 35.04±8.09, 40.94±10.56, respectively. There were no significant differences in CHFS outcomes between patients with diffuse and limited forms of SSc, SHAQ and the mental component of SF-12. However, in the physical component of SF-12, a better score was found in patients with the diffuse form of the disease (p=0.04). CONCLUSION: Patients with SSc present an important impairment of hand function, quality of life and functional capacity, and those with limited cutaneous form present worse scores of the physical component in the evaluation of quality of life.

INTRODUÇÃO: A esclerose sistêmica (ES) é uma doença autoimune crônica que se caracteriza por fibrose progressiva da pele e órgãos internos, promovendo grande morbimortalidade. OBJETIVO: Avaliar a funcionalidade, incapacidade e qualidade de vida em pacientes com esclerose sistêmica e comparar as formas clínicas da doença. MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal, descritivo e analítico, realizado na Clínica de Reumatologia do Hospital das Clínicas da Universidade Federal de Pernambuco (HC-UFPE), de agosto de 2018 a abril de 2019. A amostra não probabilística do tipo conveniência foi composta por 60 pacientes com diagnóstico de ES, acompanhados no ambulatório de Reumatologia do Hospital das Clínicas da Universidade Federal de Pernambuco. Para avaliar os resultados, foram utilizados os seguintes instrumentos: Escala Funcional da Mão de Cochin (CHFS) para função da mão; 12-Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-12) para qualidade de vida; Questionário de Avaliação de Saúde da Esclerodermia (SHAQ) para funcionalidade e incapacidade. RESULTADOS: Os resultados médios para CHFS, SHAQ, SF-12 componente físico e SF-12 componente mental foram 14,5 (6,0-29,75), 1,01±0,56; 35,04±8,09; 40,94±10,56, respectivamente. Não houve diferenças significativas nos resultados do CHFS entre pacientes com formas difusas e limitadas de ES, SHAQ e o componente mental do SF-12. No entanto, no componente físico do SF-12, foi encontrado melhor escore dos pacientes com a forma difusa da doença (p=0,04). CONCLUSÃO: Pacientes com ES apresentam comprometimento importante da função da mão, qualidade de vida e capacidade funcional, e aqueles com forma cutânea limitada apresentam piores escores do componente físico na avaliação da qualidade de vida.

Update on the treatment of musculoskeletal manifestations in chikungunya fever: a guideline

Abstract Since the emergence of the chikungunya virus in Brazil in 2014, more than 700,000 cases have been reported throughout the country, corresponding to one-third of all cases reported in the Americas. In addition to its high attack rates, resulting in hundreds of thousands of cases, the disease has high chronicity rates with persistent joint manifestations for more than 3 months, which can spread to more than half of the patients affected in the acute phase. Pain associated with musculoskeletal manifestations, often disabling, has an effect on patients' quality of life at different stages of the disease. Currently, the challenge faced by specialists is identifying the best therapy to be instituted for symptom relief despite the limited number of published intervention studies. In 2016, a multidisciplinary group published pharmacological treatment protocols for pain in patients with chikungunya, which was incorporated into the guidelines for clinical management of the Brazilian Ministry of Health in 2017; in that same year, a consensus was published by the Brazilian Society of Rheumatology about diagnosis and treatment. After 5 years of experience with chikungunya epidemics, in 2019, specialists involved in the protocols of the Brazilian Society of Rheumatology and Brazilian Ministry of Health prepared an update with the main objective of developing flowcharts for the therapeutic approach of musculoskeletal manifestations in adult patients to enable specialists at different levels of healthcare to spread and apply this guideline in a systematic and simplified manner.

Papel de Hospital Universitário na rede de atenção reumatológica / Role of University Hospital in the rheumatological care network

RESUMO Os objetivos deste artigo são descrever e analisar o papel de um Hospital Universitário na Rede de Atenção à Saúde para pacientes reumatológicos no estado de Pernambuco. Realizou-se estudo transversal com abordagem qualitativa e quantitativa. Foram entrevistados informantes-chave da Secretaria Estadual de Saúde e do Hospital das Clínicas da Universidade Federal de Pernambuco. Dados secundários foram extraídos do Cadastro Nacional de Estabelecimentos de Saúde. Em 2016, foram atendidos 4.530 usuários com Doenças Reumatológicas no hospital, média de idade de 52 anos, maioria mulheres (79%), oriundos de 164 municípios pernambucanos com concentração na 1ª região de saúde. A entrada dos pacientes é regulada, havendo protocolo de acesso para avaliar perfil e indicar subespecialidade de atendimento em reumatologia. Existe protocolo único no hospital e são garantidos exames laboratoriais e alguns por imagem; há infusão de imunossupressores no serviço, quando indicada clinicamente. Como fragilidades, apontam-se alto absenteísmo e dificuldades em compartilhar cuidado com a atenção básica, apesar da alta responsável adotada. O Hospital Universitário analisado parece cumprir sua missão institucional e funcionalidade, dando resolutividade aos casos pelos quais se torna responsável e preenchendo, muitas vezes, as lacunas assistenciais da média complexidade do Sistema Único de Saúde.

ABSTRACT The objectives of this paper was to describe and analyze the role of a University Hospital in the Health Care Network for rheumatological patients of Pernambuco state. A transversal study with qualitative and quantitative approach was carried out. Key-informants from the Health State Secretary and Clinical Hospital of the Federal University of Pernambuco were interviewed. Secondary data were extracted from the National Registry of Health Establishments. In 2016, 4.530 patients with Rheumatologic Diseases were treated at the hospital, mean age of 52 years old, mostly women (79%), from 164 municipalities in Pernambuco with concentration in the 1st health region. Patients' admission is regulated, with an access protocol to evaluate profile and indicate subspecialty of care in rheumatology. There is a single protocol in the hospital and laboratory and some imaging tests are assured; there is infusion of immunosuppressants in the service, when clinically indicated. As weaknesses, high absenteeism and difficulties in sharing care with primary care are pointed out, despite the high responsibility adopted. The University Hospital analyzed seems to fulfill its institutional mission and functionality, giving resolution to the cases for which it becomes responsible and filling, often, the assistance gaps of the average complexity of the Unified Health System.

Recommendations of the Brazilian Society of Rheumatology for diagnosis and treatment of Chikungunya fever. Part 1 - Diagnosis and special situations / Recomendações da Sociedade Brasileira de Reumatologia para diagnóstico e tratamento da febre chikungunya. Parte 1 - Diagnóstico e situações especiais

Abstract Chikungunya fever has become a relevant public health problem in countries where epidemics occur. Until 2013, only imported cases occurred in the Americas, but in October of that year, the first cases were reported in Saint Marin island in the Caribbean. The first autochthonous cases were confirmed in Brazil in September 2014; until epidemiological week 37 of 2016, 236,287 probable cases of infection with Chikungunya virus had been registered, 116,523 of which had serological confirmation. Environmental changes caused by humans, disorderly urban growth and an ever-increasing number of international travelers were described as the factors responsible for the emergence of large-scale epidemics. Clinically characterized by fever and joint pain in the acute stage, approximately half of patients progress to the chronic stage (beyond 3 months), which is accompanied by persistent and disabling pain. The aim of the present study was to formulate recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of Chikungunya fever in Brazil. A literature review was performed in the MEDLINE, SciELO and PubMed databases to ground the decisions for recommendations. The degree of concordance among experts was established through the Delphi method, involving 2 in-person meetings and several online voting rounds. In total, 25 recommendations were formulated and divided into 3 thematic groups: (1) clinical, laboratory and imaging diagnosis; (2) special situations; and (3) treatment. The first 2 themes are presented in part 1, and treatment is presented in part 2.

Resumo A febre chikungunya tem se tornado um importante problema de saúde pública nos países onde ocorrem as epidemias. Até 2013, as Américas haviam registrado apenas casos importados quando, em outubro desse mesmo ano, foram notificados os primeiros casos na Ilha de Saint Martin, no Caribe. No Brasil, os primeiros relatos autóctones foram confirmados em setembro de 2014 e até a semana epidemiológica 37 de 2016 já haviam sido registrados 236.287 casos prováveis de infecção pelo chikungunya vírus (CHIKV), 116.523 confirmados sorologicamente. As mudanças ambientais causadas pelo homem, o crescimento urbano desordenado e o número cada vez maior de viagens internacionais têm sido apontados como os fatores responsáveis pela reemergência de epidemias em grande escala. Caracterizada clinicamente por febre e dor articular na fase aguda, em cerca de metade dos casos existe evolução para a fase crônica (além de três meses), com dor persistente e incapacitante. O objetivo deste trabalho foi elaborar recomendações para diagnóstico e tratamento da febre chikungunya no Brasil. Para isso, foi feita revisão da literatura nas bases de dados Medline, SciELO e PubMed, para dar apoio às decisões tomadas para definir as recomendações. Para a definição do grau de concordância foi feita uma metodologia Delphi, em duas reuniões presenciais e várias rodadas de votação on line. Foram geradas 25 recomendações, divididas em três grupos temáticos: (1) diagnóstico clínico, laboratorial e por imagem; (2) situações especiais e (3) tratamento. Na primeira parte estão os dois primeiros temas e o tratamento na segunda.

Recommendations of the Brazilian Society of Rheumatology for the diagnosis and treatment of chikungunya fever. Part 2 - Treatment / Recomendações da Sociedade Brasileira de Reumatologia para diagnóstico e tratamento da febre chikungunya. Parte 2 - Tratamento

Abstract Chikungunya fever has become an important public health problem in countries where epidemics occur because half of the cases progress to chronic, persistent and debilitating arthritis. Literature data on specific therapies at the various phases of arthropathy caused by chikungunya virus (CHIKV) infection are limited, lacking quality randomized trials assessing the efficacies of different therapies. There are a few studies on the treatment of musculoskeletal manifestations of chikungunya fever, but these studies have important methodological limitations. The data currently available preclude conclusions favorable or contrary to specific therapies, or an adequate comparison between the different drugs used. The objective of this study was to develop recommendations for the treatment of chikungunya fever in Brazil. A literature review was performed via evidence-based selection of articles in the databases Medline, SciELO, PubMed and Embase and conference proceedings abstracts, in addition to expert opinions to support decision-making in defining recommendations. The Delphi method was used to define the degrees of agreement in 2 face-to-face meetings and several online voting rounds. This study is part 2 of the Recommendations of the Brazilian Society of Rheumatology (Sociedade Brasileira de Reumatologia - SBR) for the Diagnosis and Treatment of chikungunya fever and specifically addresses treatment.

Resumo A febre chikungunya tem se tornado um importante problema de saúde pública nos países onde ocorrem as epidemias, visto que metade dos casos evolui com artrite crônica, persistente e incapacitante. Os dados na literatura sobre terapêuticas específicas nas diversas fases da artropatia ocasionada pela infecção pelo vírus chikungunya (CHIKV) são limitados, não existem estudos randomizados de qualidade que avaliem a eficácia das diferentes terapias. Há algumas poucas publicações sobre o tratamento das manifestações musculoesqueléticas da febre chikungunya, porém com importantes limitações metodológicas. Os dados atualmente disponíveis não permitem conclusões favoráveis ou contrárias a terapêuticas específicas, bem como uma adequada avaliação quanto à superioridade entre as diferentes medicações empregadas. O objetivo deste trabalho foi elaborar recomendações para o tratamento da febre chikungunya no Brasil. Foi feita uma revisão da literatura com seleção de artigos baseados em evidência, nas bases de dados Medline, SciELO, PubMed e Embase e de resumos de anais de congressos, além da opinião dos especialistas para dar apoio às decisões tomadas para definir as recomendações. Para a definição do grau de concordância foi feita uma metodologia Delphi, em duas reuniões presenciais e várias rodadas de votação on line. Este artigo refere-se à parte 2 das Recomendações da Sociedade Brasileira de Reumatologia para Diagnóstico e Tratamento da Febre Chikungunya, que trata especificamente do tratamento.

High frequency of asymptomatic hyperparathyroidism in patients with fibromyalgia: random association or misdiagnosis? / Frequência elevada de hiperparatireoidismo assintomático em pacientes com fibromialgia: associação ao acaso ou erro diagnóstico?

ABSTRACT Fibromyalgia (FM) and hyperparathyroidism may present similar symptoms (musculoskeletal pain, cognitive disorders, insomnia, depression and anxiety), causing diagnostic confusion. Objectives: To determine the frequency of asymptomatic hyperparathyroidism in a sample of patients with FM and to evaluate the association of laboratory abnormalities to clinical symptoms. Methods: Cross-sectional study with 100 women with FM and 57 healthy women (comparison group). Parathyroid hormone (PTH), calcium and albumin levels were accessed, as well as symptoms in the FM group. Results: In FM group, mean serum calcium (9.6 ± 0.98 mg/dL) and PTH (57.06 ± 68.98 pg/mL) values were considered normal, although PTH levels had been significantly higher than in the comparison group (37.12 ± 19.02 pg/mL; p = 0.001). Hypercalcemic hyperparathyroidism was diagnosed in 6% of patients with FM, and 17% of these women exhibited only high levels of PTH, featuring a normocalcemic hyperparathyroidism, with higher frequencies than those expected for their age. There was no significant association between hyperparathyroidism and FM symptoms, except for epigastric pain, which was more frequent in the group of patients concomitantly with both diseases (p = 0.012). Conclusions: A high frequency of hyperparathyroidism was noted in women with FM versus the general population. Normocalcemic hyperparathyroidism was also more frequent in patients with FM. Longitudinal studies with greater number of patients are needed to assess whether this is an association by chance only, if the increased serum levels of PTH are part of FM pathophysiology, or even if these would not be cases of FM, but of hyperparathyroidism.

RESUMO A fibromialgia (FM) e o hiperparatireoidismo podem apresentar sintomas semelhantes (dores osteomusculares, distúrbios cognitivos, insônia, depressão e ansiedade) e causar confusão diagnóstica. Objetivos: Determinar a frequência de hiperparatireoidismo assintomático em uma amostra de pacientes com FM e avaliar a associação das alterações laboratoriais com a sintomatologia. Metodologia: Estudo transversal com 100 mulheres portadoras de FM e 57 mulheres saudáveis (grupo de comparação). Foram pesquisados os níveis de paratormônio (PTH), cálcio e albumina, além da pesquisa de sintomas no grupo com FM. Resultados: No grupo com FM, os valores médios de cálcio sérico (9,6 ± 0,98 mg/dL) e de PTH (57,06 ± 68,98pg/mL) foram considerados normais, embora os níveis de PTH tivessem sido significativamente maiores do que no grupo de comparação (37,12 ± 19,02 pg/mL; p = 0,001). O hiperparatireoidismo hipercalcêmico foi diagnosticado em 6% das pacientes com FM e 17% delas apresentaram apenas PTH elevado, o que caracterizou o hiperparatireoidismo normocalcêmico, frequências maiores do que esperada para a faixa etária. Não houve associação significativa entre hiperparatireoidismo e sintomas da FM, com exceção da epigastralgia, que foi mais frequente no grupo de pacientes com as duas doenças concomitantes (p = 0,012). Conclusões: Houve frequência elevada de hiperparatireoidismo em portadoras de FM quanto à população geral. Hiperparatireoidismo normocalcêmico também foi mais frequente em pacientes com FM. Estudos longitudinais e com maior número de pacientes são necessários para avaliar se trata-se apenas de uma associação ao acaso, se as elevações séricas do PTH fazem parte da fisiopatologia da FM ou, ainda, se não seriam casos de FM, e sim de hiperparatireoidismo.

Cytokine measurements in Brazilian postmenopausal osteoporosis patients reveal high levels of IL-8 / Dosagem de citocinas em pacientes brasileiras com osteoporose pós-menopausa revela altos níveis de IL-8

AIMS: Osteoporosis is a common disease that affects mostly women and has been associated with the immune system. The aims of this study were to evaluate the serum levels of inflammatory cytokines in women with postmenopausal osteoporosis and to investigate their relationship with clinical and laboratory parameters. METHODS: This study recruited patients with postmenopausal osteoporosis (osteoporosis group) and non-osteoporotic postmenopausal women (control group) matched for age. All patients and controls had their bone mineral density measured for the diagnosis of osteoporosis and answered a clinical questionnaire. Blood samples were collected for cytokine measurements. Cytokines IFN-γ, IL-1ß, IL-6, IL-8, IL-9, IL-10, IL-17A, IL-22, IL-27, IL-29, IL-35, and TNF-α were measured by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. RESULTS: Twenty-nine out of the 52 (55.8%) postmenopausal osteoporosis patients showed high levels of IL-8, while no patients from the control group (n=21) showed IL-8 values above the detection limit (p<0.0001). Higher levels of IFN-γ and IL-35 were associated with the control group, with p values of 0.0053 and 0.0214, respectively. In the osteoporosis group, IFN-γ was correlated with longer duration of smoking (p=0.003), IFN-γ and IL-6 were correlated with higher age at menarche (p=0.0454 and p=0.0380), IL-22 was correlated with duration of menopause (p=0.0289) and IL-9 with calcium intake (p=0.019). The other cytokines showed no association or correlation with clinical parameters. CONCLUSIONS: IL-8 was elevated in the serum of patients with postmenopausal osteoporosis, perhaps because it may trigger osteoclast activation and bone wear in osteoporosis. Higher levels of IFN-γ, IL-6, IL-9, IL-22, IL-27, and IL-35 were also associated with the osteoporosis group patients and showed significant correlation with clinical parameters in postmenopausal osteoporosis.

OBJETIVOS: A osteoporose é uma doença comum, que afeta principalmente as mulheres e tem sido associada com o sistema imune. Este estudo objetivou avaliar níveis séricos de citocinas inflamatórias em mulheres pós-menopáusicas com osteoporose, assim como investigar as suas relações com parâmetros clínicos e laboratoriais. MÉTODOS: Este estudo recrutou pacientes com osteoporose pós-menopausa e voluntárias sem a doença, pareadas por idade. Todas as pacientes do grupo com osteoporose e as integrantes do grupo controle passaram pelo exame de mensuração de densidade óssea para diagnosticar a doença e todas responderam a um questionário clínico. Amostras de sangue foram coletadas para as dosagens séricas. As citocinas IFN-γ, IL-1ß, IL-6, IL-8, IL-9, IL-10, IL-17A, IL-22, IL-27, IL-29, IL-35 e TNF-α foram dosadas por ensaio imunoenzimático. RESULTADOS: Vinte e nove entre as 52 (55,8%) pacientes com osteoporose pós-menopausa mostraram altos níveis de IL-8, enquanto nenhuma integrante do grupo controle teve valores de IL-8 acima do nível de detecção do kit (p<0,0001). Altos níveis de IFN-γ and IL-35 foram associados ao grupo controle, com valores de p de 0,0053 and 0,0214 respectivamente. No grupo osteoporose, IFN-γ mostrou correlação com o tempo de duração do tabagismo (p=0,003). IFN-γ e IL-6 foram correlacionadas com a idade de ocorrência da menarca (p=0,0454 e p=0,0380). A citocina IL-22 correlacionou-se com a duração da menopausa (p=0,0289), e a IL-9 com a ingestão de mais cálcio na dieta (p=0,019). As outras citocinas dosadas não mostraram associações ou correlações com os parâmetros clínicos. CONCLUSÕES: A IL-8 mostrou-se elevada no soro das pacientes com osteoporose pós-menopausa, talvez por atuar como um gatilho para a ativação dos osteoclastos e desgaste ósseo que ocorre na osteoporose. Níveis mais altos de IFN-γ, IL-6, IL-9, IL-22, IL-27 e IL-35 também estiveram presentes no soro das pacientes do grupo osteoporose e mostraram associações significativas com os parâmetros clínicos na osteoporose pós-menopausa.

Avaliação de dor e qualidade de vida de pacientes com fibromialgia / Evaluation of pain and quality of life of fibromyalgia patients

RESUMO JUSTIFICATIVA E OBJETIVOS: Sabe-se que a fibromialgia é uma síndrome musculoesquelética caracterizada por dor crônica e generalizada. Considerando que a dor é um sintoma que traz implicações diretas na vida dos pacientes acometidos, o objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a dor e a qualidade de vida de pacientes com fibromialgia para melhor compreender a correlação entre essas variáveis. MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal com 45 mulheres, com idade entre 30 e 55 anos, em tratamento estável no último mês que antecedeu a seleção, sendo excluídas as que estavam em tratamento fisioterapêutico, faziam uso de recursos auxiliares da marcha e/ ou tinham doenças reumatológicas autoimunes ou relevantes comorbidades sem controle. A avaliação foi realizada através de ficha de entrevista, Questionário de Impacto da Fibromialgia, Índice de Dor Generalizada e escala analógica visual. Os dados foram analisados através dos testes de Correlação de Pearson e t de Student, aceitando-se níveis de significância estatística acima de 95%. RESULTADOS: foram observados elevados valores no Questionário de Impacto da Fibromialgia, Índice de Dor Generalizada e escala analógica visual além de uma correlação linear entre os índices de dor e qualidade de vida. CONCLUSÃO: A dor está associada à diminuição da qualidade de vida de fibromiálgicos.

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: It is known that fibromyalgia is a musculoskeletal syndrome characterized by chronic and widespread pain. Considering that pain has direct implications on affected patients' lives, this study aimed at evaluating pain and quality of life of fibromyalgia patients to better understand the correlation between such variables. METHODS: Cross-sectional study with 45 females aged between 30 and 55 years, in stable treatment in the month previous to selection, being excluded those under physiotherapeutic treatment, using walking aids and/or with autoimmune rheumatologic diseases or relevant uncontrolled comorbidities. Patients were evaluated with interview records, Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire, Widespread Pain Index and visual analog scale. Data were analyzed by Pearson Correlation and Student t tests, with statistical significance above 95%. RESULTS: There have been high scores in Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire, Widespread Pain Index and visual analog scale, in addition to linear correlation between pain scores and quality of life. CONCLUSION: Pain is associated to impaired quality of life of fibromyalgia patients.

Intake of antioxidants in patients with rheumatoid arthritis / Consumo de antioxidantes em portadores de artrite reumatoide

Objective: to investigate dietary intake of antioxidants in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Methods: this is a cross-sectional case series study with 53 women accompanied at the Rheumatology Outpatient Clinic, Hospital das Clínicas/UFPE, from January to October 2012. Demographic and anthropometric parameters (weight, height, body mass index, weight change) were collected by means of a form. The assessment of food consumption was conducted using a semi-quantitative food frequency survey, analyzed according to a food composition table. Database construction and statistical analysis were performed using Excel and SPSS version 18.0, using chi-squared test, Anova, and Student’s t-test, at a confidence level of 5%. Results: the sample was composed of 53 women with a mean age of 54.51 ± 4.24 years and BMI of 25.97 ± 5.94 kg/m². In the sociodemographic variables, statistically significant differences in origin, occupation, and income were observed. Daily consumption showed significance for vitamins A, C, and zinc. In adults, vitamins A and C were in accordance with recommendations, while in the elderly a low intake of vitamin E and selenium was observed. The relation between vitamin E and origin was significant. Conclusion: the sample was composed of 53 women with a mean age of 54.51 ± 4.24 years and BMI of 25.97 ± 5.94 kg/m². In the sociodemographic variables, statistically significant differences in origin, occupation, and income were observed. Daily consumption showed significance for vitamins A, C, and zinc. In adults, vitamins A and C were in accordance with recommendations, while in the elderly a low intake of vitamin E and selenium was observed. The relation between vitamin E and origin was significant. .

Objectivo: investigar o consumo alimentar de antioxidantes em pacientes portadores de artrite reumatoide. Métodos: estudo transversal do tipo série de casos com 53 mulheres acompanhadas no Ambulatório de Reumatologia do Hospital das Clínicas da Universidade Federal de Pernambuco (HC-UFPE), de janeiro a outubro de 2012. Por meio de formulário, foram coletados parâmetros sociodemográficos e antropométricos (peso, estatura, índice de massa corpórea [IMC], alteração ponderal). A avaliação do consumo alimentar foi realizada por questionário de frequência alimentar semiquantitativo, analisado por tabela de composição de alimentos. A construção do banco de dados e a análise estatística foram realizadas por Excel e SPSS versão 18.0, com aplicação de testes Qui-quadrado, Anova e t-Student, com nível de confiança de 5%. Resultados: demonstrou-se que os pacientes apresentaram baixo consumo de vitaminas A, C e zinco. Portanto, ressalta-se a importância de maior consumo de alimentos fontes em antioxidantes, a fim de contribuir para a prevenção da lesão articular e a perda da função reumática, melhorando a qualidade de vida do paciente. Conclusão: demonstrou-se que os pacientes apresentaram baixo consumo de vitaminas A, C e zinco. Portanto, ressalta-se a importância de maior consumo de alimentos fontes em antioxidantes, a fim de contribuir para a prevenção da lesão articular e a perda da função reumática, melhorando a qualidade de vida do paciente. .

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor agonists (PPARs): a promising prospect in the treatment of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis / Os receptores ativados pelo proliferador de peroxissoma (PPAR): uma perspectiva promissora na conducao da psoriase e artrite psoriasica

Psoriasis is a polygenic, inflammatory and progressive disease, characterized by an abnormal differentiation and hyperproliferation of keratinocytes, associated with impaired immunologic activation and systemic disorders, while psoriatic arthritis is a chronic inflammatory articular disease. Pathophysiology of psoriasis comprises a dysfunction of the immune system cells with an interactive network between cells and cytokines supporting the initiation and perpetuation of disease and leading to inflammation of skin, enthesis and joints. Recent studies have shown an important role of systemic inflammation in the development of atherosclerosis. Corroborating these findings, patients with severe Psoriasis have marked incidence of psoriatic arthritis, cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, dyslipidemia, obesity and diabetes mellitus, showing an increased risk for acute myocardial infarction, which suggests that the condition is not restricted to the skin. Nuclear receptors are ligand-dependent transcription factors, whose activation affects genes that control vital processes. Among them the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor is responsible for establishing the relationship between lipids, metabolic diseases and innate immunity. In the skin, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors have an important effect in keratinocyte homeostasis, suggesting a role in diseases such as psoriasis. The peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors agonists represent a relevant source of research in the treatment of skin conditions, however more clinical studies are needed to define the potential response of these drugs in patients with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis.

A psoríase é uma doença poligênica, inflamatória, progressiva e recorrente, caracterizada por um ciclo evolutivo acelerado dos queratinócitos, associado à ativação imune desordenada e a alterações sistêmicas correlacionadas, sendo a artrite psoriásica o comprometimento articular inflamatório crônico que pode ocorrer em pacientes com a doença cutânea. Na inflamação autoimune, uma rede interativa entre células e citocinas suporta o início e a perpetuação da doença. A fisiopatologia da psoríase e da artrite psoriásica compreende uma disfunção das células do sistema imune e da rede de citocinas, levando à inflamação de pele, enteses e articulações. Estudos recentes têm demonstrado um papel importante da inflamação sistêmica no desenvolvimento da aterosclerose. Corroborando esses achados, pacientes portadores de psoríase grave apresentam marcada incidência de artrite psoriásica, doença cardiovascular, hipertensão arterial sistêmica, dislipidemia, obesidade e diabetes mellitus, evidenciando um risco aumentado para infarto agudo do miocárdio e sugerindo que a doença não se restringe à pele. Os receptores nucleares são fatores de transcrição ligante-dependente cuja ativação afeta genes controladores de processos vitais. Entre eles, destacam-se os receptores ativados pelo proliferador de peroxissoma, responsáveis por estabelecer a relação entre os lipídios, doenças metabólicas e imunidade inata. Na pele, os receptores ativados pelo proliferador de peroxissoma têm ação importante na homeostase dos ceratinócitos, exibindo uma função pró-diferenciação, antiproliferativa e imunomoduladora, sugerindo um papel relevante ...

Hydroxychloroquine decreases Th17-related cytokines in systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis patients

OBJECTIVES: Hydroxychloroquine is an antimalarial agent that has been used in systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis treatment for many years. Recently, novel mechanisms of action have been proposed, thereby broadening the therapeutic perspective of this medication. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the immunomodulatory activity of hydroxychloroquine in T helper 17 (Th17) cytokines in healthy individuals and patients. METHODS: Eighteen female patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (mean age 39.0±12.9 years) and 13 female patients with rheumatoid arthritis (mean age 51.5±7.7 years) were recruited from Universidade Federal de Pernambuco-Brazil. The patients were included after fulfilling four classification criteria for systemic lupus erythematosus or rheumatoid arthritis from the American College of Rheumatology. After being stimulated with phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate and ionomycin in the absence or presence of different concentrations of hydroxychloroquine, the interleukin 6, 17 and 22 levels were quantified with an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in culture supernatants of peripheral blood mononuclear cells from healthy individuals and patients. RESULTS: We demonstrated that in peripheral blood mononuclear cells from healthy volunteers and in systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis patients, there was a significant reduction in the IL-6, IL-17 and IL-22 supernatant levels after adding hydroxychloroquine. CONCLUSIONS Our in vitro results demonstrated that hydroxychloroquine inhibits IL-6, IL-17 and IL-22 production and contributes to a better understanding of the mechanism of action of this medication. .

Níveis séricos de 25-hidroxivitamina D3 e sua associação com parâmetros clínicos e laboratoriais em pacientes com lúpus eritematoso sistêmico / 25-Hydroxyivitamin D3 levels in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus and its association with clinical parameters and laboratory tests

INTRODUÇÃO: O papel imunorregulatório da vitamina D tem sido alvo de um crescente número de estudos em pacientes com lúpus eritematoso sistêmico (LES). Objetivos: Determinar os níveis séricos de 25-hidroxivitamina D3 [25(OH)D] em pacientes com LES e verificar a associação da insuficiência/deficiência de 25(OH)D com parâmetros clínicos e laboratoriais. MÉTODOS:Estudo de corte transversal, prospectivo, realizado no ambulatório de LES do Serviço de Reumatologia do Hospital das Clínicas da Universidade Federal de Pernambuco. Foram incluídos 78 pacientes portadores de LES e 64 voluntários (grupo de comparação) pareados por gênero e idade. RESULTADOS: Constatou-se insuficiência/deficiência de 25(OH)D em 45 (57,7 por cento) pacientes com LES e em 25 (39 por cento) indivíduos do grupo de comparação. Os níveis séricos médios de 25(OH)D foram 29,3 ng/mL (6,1-55,2 ng/mL) nos pacientes com LES e 33,12 ng/mL (15,9-63,8 ng/mL) no grupo de comparação; essa diferença é considerada estatisticamente significante (P = 0,041). Não houve diferença estatisticamente significante entre as médias de idade dos dois grupos. Não houve associação estatisticamente significante entre insuficiência/deficiência de 25(OH)D e tempo de diagnóstico, atividade de doença (SLEDAI > 6), fadiga, uso de corticosteroides e de antimaláricos e anti-DNA. CONCLUSÕES:Foi constatada alta prevalência de insuficiência/deficiência de 25(OH)D nos pacientes com LES (57,7 por cento), com diferença estatisticamente significante em relação ao grupo de comparação. Não evidenciamos associação de insuficiência/deficiência de vitamina D com as variáveis clínicas e laboratoriais estudadas. Os autores enfatizam a importância da determinação dos níveis séricos de 25(OH)D em todos os pacientes com LES, independente de onde residam e do tempo de diagnóstico da doença.

INTRODUCTION: The immunoregulatory role of vitamin D has been the object of a growing number of studies in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). OBJECTIVES: To determine the serum levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 [25(OH) D] in patients with SLE, and to assess the association of 25(OH)D insufficiency/deficiency with clinical parameters and laboratory tests. METHODS: Cross-sectional, prospective study performed at the SLE Clinic, Department of Rheumatology, Hospital das Clínicas, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco with convenience sampling, including 78 patients with SLE and 64 volunteers (comparison group), matched by gender and age. RESULTS: Insufficiency/deficiency of 25(OH)D was found in 45 (57.7 percent) patients with SLE and 25 (39 percent) individuals in the comparison group. The mean serum levels of 25(OH)D were 29.3 ng/mL (6.1-55.2 ng/mL) in patients with SLE and 33.12 ng/mL (15.9-63.8 ng/mL) in the comparison group, and this difference was statistically significant (P = 0.041). No statistically significant difference was observed between the mean ages of both groups. No statistically significant association was observed between 25(OH)D insufficiency/deficiency and the following: time to diagnosis; disease activity (SLEDAI > 6); fatigue; use of corticosteroids and antimalarials; and anti-DNA. CONCLUSIONS: High prevalence of 25(OH)D insufficiency/deficiency was found in patients with SLE (57.7 percent), with statistically significant difference as compared with the comparison group. No association of vitamin D insufficiency/deficiency was observed with the clinical variables and laboratory tests studied. The authors emphasize the importance of determining 25(OH)D serum levels in all patients with SLE, regardless of where they live and time to disease diagnosis.

Caquexia reumatoide - como diagnosticar / Rheumatoid cachexia - how to diagnose

A caquexia reumatoide é caracterizada pela perda involuntária de massa magra, predominantemente de músculo-esquelético, que ocorre também em vísceras e sistema imune, com massa gorda estável ou pouco elevada, e com pequena ou nenhuma perda de peso. Constitui uma condição pouco reconhecida na prática clínica e, nos casos severos, com importante perda de peso, há aumento da morbidade, com mortalidade prematura, embora a perda de massa muscular com um índice de massa corpórea normal também esteja associada com uma resposta clínica insatisfatória. A causa é multifatorial, incluindo a produção acentuada de citocinas, entre elas o TNF-alfa, e diminuição da atividade física. A composição corporal pode ser analisada utilizando as medidas antropométricas, densitometria de corpo total e outras técnicas, mas os resultados devem ser interpretados com cautela. Atualmente, a ressonância magnética tem sido estudada como importante exame para definir, com mais confiança, a massa muscular e a distribuição de gordura corporal. A caquexia apresenta pouca resposta à dieta de forma isolada, mas treinamento de resistência progressivo e terapia com antifator de necrose tumoral a são medidas que prometem melhorar esta manifestação extra-articular incapacitante da artrite reumatoide.

A importância dos níveis de vitamina D nas doenças autoimunes: [revisão] / The importance of vitamin D levels in autoimmune diseases: [review]

Além do seu papel na homeostase do cálcio, acredita-se que a forma ativa da vitamina D apresenta efeitos imunomoduladores sobre as células do sistema imunológico, sobretudo linfócitos T, bem como na produção e na ação de diversas citocinas. A interação da vitamina D com o sistema imunológico vem sendo alvo de um número crescente de publicações nos últimos anos. Estudos atuais têm relacionado a deficiência de vitamina D com várias doenças autoimunes, como diabetes mellitus insulino-dependente (DMID), esclerose múltipla (EM), doença inflamatória intestinal (DII), lúpus eritematoso sistêmico (LES) e artrite reumatoide (AR). O artigo faz uma revisão da fisiologia e do papel imunomodulador da vitamina D, enfatizando sua participação nas doenças reumatológicas, como o lúpus e a artrite reumatoide.

In addition to its role in calcium homeostasis, it is believed that the active form of vitamin D has immunomodulatory effects on cells of the immune system, particularly T lymphocytes, as well as on the production and action of several cytokines. The interaction of vitamin D with the immune system has been the target of a growing number of publications in recent years. Current studies have linked the deficiency of vitamin D with different autoimmune diseases, including insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM), multiple sclerosis (MS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). This article reviews the physiology and immunomodulatory role of vitamin D, emphasizing its involvement in rheumatic diseases such as SLE and RA.

Resposta atenuada ao PPD no diagnóstico de infecção tuberculosa latente em pacientes com artrite reumatoide / Attenuated response to PPD in the diagnosis of latent tuberculosis infection in patients with rheumatoid arthritis

INTRODUÇÃO: A utilização dos anti-TNF's na prática reumatológica tornou obrigatória a identificação de casos de infecção tuberculosa latente (ITBL) antes do início do tratamento, utilizando o PPD, RX de tórax e história de contato com tuberculose. Os pacientes com artrite reumatoide (AR) apresentam uma anormalidade da função celular imune, caracterizada por diminuição da responsividade de células mononucleares periféricas (linfócitos T Reg), o que acarreta prejuízo para a hipersensibilidade cutânea tardia, o que é fundamental para o reconhecimento de antígenos, como é o caso do PPD. OBJETIVOS: Avaliar a resposta ao PPD em pacientes com AR, comparado com pessoas saudáveis em uma área endêmica de tuberculose, como é o estado de Pernambuco. METODOLOGIA: Foram estudados 96 pacientes, 48 com AR e 48 indivíduos saudáveis, sendo a maioria do sexo feminino; foi realizada a inoculação de 0,1 mL do PPD RT-23, por via intradérmica e leitura da induração 72 horas após. RESULTADOS: No grupo AR o tempo médio de diagnóstico foi de 10,2 anos, a dose média de metotrexate foi de 15,5 mg/semana, dose média de prednisona foi de 12,7 mg/dia e a atividade média da doença medida pelo CDAI foi 30,4. Houve maior positividade do PPD no grupo de comparação (33,3 por cento) quando comparado com o grupo AR (14,6 por cento), com diferença estatisticamente significante (p = 0,034). CONCLUSÕES: Os autores alertam para o fraco desempenho do PPD para diagnóstico de ITBL em pacientes com AR e da necessidade de se fazer uma triagem ainda mais cuidadosa antes do início do tratamento com anti-TNF.

INTRODUCTION: With the introduction of Tumor Necrosis Factor Inhibitors (anti-TNFs) into rheumatological practice, it has become obligatory to identify cases of latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) prior to the start of treatment, using PPD, chest radiography and clinical history of tuberculosis contact. Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) have an abnormality of the cellular immune function, characterized by decreasing responsiveness of peripheral mononuclear cells (T Reg lymphocytes), leading to a loss in delayed hypersensitivity, which is fundamental for the recognition of antigens, such as PPD. OBJECTIVES: The purpose of our study was to evaluate the response to PPD in patients with RA, compared with healthy people, in an area where tuberculosis is endemic, as is the state of Pernambuco. METHODOLOGY: We studied 96 patients, 48 with RA and 48 healthy subjects, most of them females. All patients were given an interdermic injection of 0.1 mL PPD RT-23. The reading of the PPD result was carried out 72 hours after application, by way of palpation of maximum transverse diameter of induration, and the result was expressed in millimeters. RESULTS: In the RA group, the average time of diagnosis was 10.2 years, the average dosage of methotrexate was 15.5 mg / week, the average dosage of prednisone 12.7 mg / day and the average activity of the disease, measured using CDAI, was 30.4. In the healthy subjects group there was a greater number of positive PPD results (33.3 percent) when compared with the results for the RA group (14.6 percent), with a statistically significant difference (p = 0.034). CONCLUSION: The performance of PPB in LTBI diagnosis is poor in patients with RA. These results suggest that more careful screening needs to be undertaken before treatment with an anti-TNF drug.