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.

Digital repair for a patient with limited mouth opening: a case report and literature review / 口腔疾病防治

Objective@#To explore an accurate method to obtain an intraoral model of patients with specific limited mouth opening (microstomia) due to systemic scleroderma.@*Methods@#This study followed medical ethics, and informed consent has been obtained from patients. A case of Ken's Type I mandibular dentition defect scleroderma with limited mouth opening was addressed with digital technology as the leading method combined with the traditional impression method of segmental impression. Individual trays were made based on the patient's left and right mandibular dentition, and segmented molds were obtained. Simultaneously, intraoral scanning was performed to obtain the morphological data of both the soft and hard tissues of the upper and lower mandibles. After each part of the model was obtained, the mandibular model was scanned and digitally aligned to form the final denture model, and the final removable partial denture was designed and made by computer aided design/computer aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology. At the same time, combined with the literature, the diagnosis and treatment of removable partial denture in patients with limited mouth opening were retrospectively analyzed.@*Results@#The denture was well retained and achieved a good repair effect. The patients expressed satisfaction with the mastication efficiency and other functions of the denture. The findings of the literature review show that the integration of digital technology with the traditional impression method, along with computer fitting, can accurately obtain the patient's oral model and facilitate successful follow-up repairs. However, when the anterior mandibular dentition of the patient is absent, the margin of error is increased in this procedure, which deserves further exploration.@*Conclusion@#Utilizing digital technology as the leading method, combined with the traditional impression method of segmental impression, for the repair of dental defects in patients with limited mouth opening, has proven to be effective. Thus, patients report a positive medical experience with high satisfaction, indicating that this approach is worthy of clinical promotion.

Esclerodermia y alteraciones esofágicas documentadas por manometría / Scleroderma and Esophageal Alterations Documented by Manometry

Introducción: Las manifestaciones gastrointestinales y en especial la disfunción esofágica son frecuentes en pacientes con diagnóstico de esclerosis sistémica. Objetivos: Determinar los hallazgos manométricos en el esófago de pacientes con esclerosis sistémica. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo de corte transversal, en 86 pacientes con diagnóstico de esclerosis sistémica que fueron atendidos en el Servicio de Reumatología del Hospital Hermanos Ameijeiras, en el período comprendido de enero de 2020 a diciembre de 2021. Resultados: La edad media fue de 49,5 ± 15,3 años, (94,3 por ciento) en el sexo femenino. El (90,7 por ciento) tenía trastornos de la motilidad esofágica, principalmente los trastornos mayores (58,1por ciento) y el esfínter esofágico corto (62,8 por ciento). La presencia de síntomas como la regurgitación, la pirosis y la disfagia se relacionaron de forma significativa en la mayoría de los parámetros manométricos. De igual forma, el tiempo de evolución de la enfermedad (10,1 ± 9,1 frente a 5,9 ± 5,9 años), el fenómeno de Raynaud (93,9 por ciento frente a 25,0 por ciento) y la esclerosis sistémica difusa (96,2 por ciento frente a 82,4 por ciento) fueron significativamente mayores en pacientes con trastornos de la motilidad esofágica. La edad y el sexo no mostraron una asociación significativa con las alteraciones manométricas. Conclusiones: Se concluye que los pacientes con esclerosis sistémica difusa, fenómeno de Raynaud, a partir de la presencia de los síntomas y de la evolución de la enfermedad tienen una elevada probabilidad de padecer trastornos de la motilidad esofágica(AU)

Introduction: Gastrointestinal manifestations, and especially esophageal dysfunction, are common in patients diagnosed with systemic sclerosis. Objectives: To determine the manometric findings in the esophagus of patients with systemic sclerosis. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out on 86 patients with a diagnosis of systemic sclerosis who were treated in the Rheumatology Service of Hermanos Ameijeiras Hospital from January 2020 to December 2021. Results: The mean age was 49.5 ± 15.3 years, (94.3percent) in females. 90.7percent had esophageal motility disorders, mainly major disorders (58.1percent) and 62.8percent had short esophageal sphincter. The presence of symptoms such as regurgitation, heartburn and dysphagia were significantly related to most manometric parameters. Similarly, the duration of the disease (10.1 ± 9.1 versus 5.9 ± 5.9 years), Raynaud's phenomenon (93.9percent versus 25.0percent) and sclerosis diffuse systemic (96.2percent vs. 82.4percent) were significantly higher in patients with esophageal motility disorders. Age and sex did not show significant association with manometric alterations. Conclusions: It is concluded that patients with diffuse systemic sclerosis, Raynaud's phenomenon, based on the presence of symptoms, and the evolution of the disease, have high probability of suffering from esophageal motility disorders(AU)

Sub-oclusión intestinal y desnutrición severa en esclerosis sistémica sin esclerodermia

La esclerosis sistémica sin escleroderma es una forma no común de compromiso sistémico de esta enfermedad, con ausencia de manifestaciones cutáneas. Presentamos el caso de una mujer de 71 años con índice de masa corporal (IMC) en 16,9 kg/m2, con historia de hipotiroidismo y estreñimiento crónico, quien acude a emergencia por dolor y distensión abdominal, asociado a náuseas. Se realizó una tomografía abdomino-pélvica encontrándose cámara gástrica colapsada, asas intestinales con algunos segmentos distendidos, con signos de fecalización de asa delgada. La colonoscopía describió dolicocolon severo. Se observaron placas induradas en codo derecho y en ambos glúteos. Los exámenes auxiliares: ANA 1/640 patrón centromérico, anticuerpos anticentrómero = 227 U/mL (valor normal - VN: 0-25), Anti SCL-70 = 1,9 U/mL (VN 0-25) y anti RNP = 0,1 U/mL (VN 0-25). La capilaroscopía de borde ungueal a 200x mostró megacapilares. El diagnóstico clínico fue esclerosis sistémica sin esclerodermia. Se inició tratamiento con dieta rica en fibra y nutrición parenteral por 1 semana. La evolución de la paciente fue favorable.

Systemic sclerosis sine Scleroderma is an uncommon form of systemic compromise of this disease, in the abscense of cutaneous manifestations. We present the case of a 71 years-old woman, body mass index (BMI) in 16.9 kg/m2, with history of hypothyroidism and chronic constipation, who goes to the emergency with pain, abdominal bloating, and nausea. An abdominopelvic tomography was made, reporting a collapse of the gastric chamber, some segments of intestinal loops distended with signs of fecalization in the small intestine. A colonoscopy described severe dolicocolon. We observed indurated plaques in left elbow and in both buttocks. Lab tests: ANA 1/640 with anticentromeric pattern, anticentromere antibodies = 227 U/mL (0-25), Anti-SCL-70 = 1.9 U/mL (0-25), anti-RNP = 0.1 U/mL (0-25). Peri-ungueal cappilaroscopy 200x showed mega capillaries. Clinical diagnosis was systemic sclerosis sine scleroderma. We initiated treatment with a high-fiber diet and parenteral nutrition for a week. The patient evolution was favorable.

Atrofodermia Idiopática de Pasini y Pierini, un abordaje inusual / Idiopathic atrophoderma of Pasini and Pierini, an unusual approach

La atrofodermia idiopática de Pasini y Pierini es una entidad poco frecuente y de etiología aún no esclarecida, se presenta con una frecuencia hasta seis veces mayor en mujeres que en hombres y una posible asociación con la esclerodermia localizada (morfea). Paciente femenina de 30 años, quien consultó por una lesión asintomática de dos años de evolución en el glúteo izquierdo. En el examen físico se evidenció una placa ovalada, deprimida y acrómica en su centro, que mide cinco por diez centímetros. La paciente había sido tratada previamente con múltiples terapias tópicas sin obtener mejoría clínica. Se realizó la biopsia de piel que demostraba cambios mínimos en epidermis, homogenización y adelgazamiento de colágeno sin afección de anexos. Se hizo correlación con los hallazgos clínicos y se decidió iniciar tratamiento con esteroides intralesionales de alta potencia (acetónido de triamcinolona). Posterior a la administración de dos aplicaciones del medicamento, con cuatro semanas de diferencia entre ellas, se evidenció la resolución completa de la dermatosis. Un mes después de la última dosis la paciente no mostró recidivas

diopathic atrophoderma of Pasini and Pierini is a rare entity of unclear etiology, occurring as much as six times more frequently in women than in men, with a possible association with localized scleroderma (morphea). It is about a 30 years old woman who consulted with an asymptomatic lesion of two years of evolution on the left gluteal region. Physical examination revealed an oval plaque, depressed and acromic in its center, measuring five by ten centimeters. A 30 years old female patient who consulted about an asymptomatic lesion of two years of evolution on the left gluteal region. Physical examination revealed an oval plaque, depressed and acromic in its center, measuring five by ten centimeters. The patient was previously treated with multiple topical therapies without clinical improvement.Skin biopsy showed minimal changes in the epidermis, homogenization, and thinning of the collagen without adnexal involvement. After a correlation was made with the clinical findings, starting treatment with high-potency intralesional steroids (triamcinolone acetonide) was recommended. After administering two applications of the drug, four weeks apart, the complete resolution of the dermatosis was evidenced. One month after the last dose, the patient showed no recurrence

Esclerodermia. Manifestaciones bucomaxilofaciales, prevención y atención odontológica. Revisión narrativa / Scleroderma. Oral and maxillofacial manifestations, prevention and dental care. Narrative review

Resumen La esclerodermia pertenece a un grupo de enfermedades autoinmunes del tejido conectivo que produce inflamación, disfunción vascular y fibrosis excesiva del tejido de soporte de la piel y los órganos viscerales. A nivel bucal se presentan afecciones como la xerostomía y la microstomía, así como caries y enfermedad periodontal por dificultades en el control de la placa bacteriana. Su tratamiento odontológico requiere un manejo integral, que comprenda las patologías bucales presentes y los síntomas permanentes característicos de la enfermedad. Si bien es una patología muy infrecuente en la práctica general, es necesario enfatizar la importancia de que el odontólogo cumpla un rol multidisciplinario en el tratamiento de estos pacientes. Esta revisión narrativa tiene por objetivo describir las manifestaciones bucomaxilofaciales y el manejo odontológico del paciente con esclerodermia.

Abstract Scleroderma belongs to a group of autoimmune connective tissue diseases that causes inflammation, vascular dysfunction and excessive fibrosis of the supporting skin tissue and visceral organs. In the mouth, conditions such as xerostomia and microstomy are evident, as well as caries and periodontal disease due to difficulty in bacterial plaque control. Its dental treatment requires an integral management, which includes the oral pathologies present and the characteristic permanent symptoms of the disease. Although this pathology is not very common in the general practice, it is necessary to emphasize the importance of the dentist playing a multidisciplinary role in the treatment of these patients. This narrative review aims to describe the oral and maxillofacial manifestations and the dental management of patients with scleroderma.

Morfea en edad pediátrica / Morphea in childhood

La morfea es una rara enfermedad fibrosante de piel y tejidos subyacentes que aparece a cualquier edad, con más frecuencia en mujeres. Es de etiología autoinmune, benigna, con remisión espontánea o recidivante crónica; y se caracteriza por la aparición de áreas de piel esclerosadas, únicas o múltiples, redondeadas o lineales, asintomáticas, de evolución crónica y sin afección sistémica. Se presentó un paciente en edad pediátrica con esta enfermedad, cuya clínica, examen diagnóstico e histología fueron compatibles con la enfermedad de morfea lineal que, a pesar del retraso en su diagnóstico una vez iniciado el tratamiento inmunosupresor presentó una evolución favorable, simultáneamente se le realizó fisioterapia.

Morphea is a rare fibrosing disease of the skin and underlying tissues which is more common in women and can appear at any age. It is an autoimmune and benign disease with spontaneous remission or chronic relapsing course; it is characterized by the appearance of single or multiple, rounded or linear, asymptomatic, chronically evolving sclerosed skin areas without systemic involvement. We present a female pediatric patient with this disease, whose symptoms, diagnostic examination and histology were compatible with linear morphea that, despite the delay in its diagnosis, she had a favorable evolution once immunosuppressive treatment was started, and physiotherapy was simultaneously performed.

Real-world nailfold videocapillaroscopy in a referral centre in north-western Colombia: A real-life cohort

Introduction: Nailfold videocapillaroscopy is a non-invasive tool for the assessment of peripheral microcirculation, the main indication is the study of Raynaud's phenomenon, poorly standardized outside of this context. There is no clear information in real-life about the rea-sons for referral, the presence of clinical findings of autoimmune diseases, the frequency of patterns of autoantibodies, and specific capillaroscopic findings. Objective: The purpose of this survey is to describe the sociodemographic, clinical, paraclinical, and angioscopy findings of a cohort of subjects referred to a capillaroscopy service in North-western Colombia. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted, from 2015 to 2018. Categorical variables were expressed in frequency and percentage and quantitative variables in mean and standard deviation or median with interquartile range, depending on the distribution of the data. Results: A total of 318 capillaroscopies were performed for the first time. The main referral reason was Raynaud's phenomenon (n = 134; 42.1%). The most frequent baseline capillaroscopic pattern found was normal (n = 123; 38.7%). Of the 12 capillaroscopies that presented a non-specific pattern at a 6-month follow-up, only one (8.3%) progressed to a scleroderma pattern. In the subjects with systemic sclerosis, the most frequent clinical finding was sclerodactyly (n = 34; 37.8%), and 42/44 individuals (95.4%) had positive antinuclear antibodies; the most frequent pattern was centromere (n = 27; 64.3%) Conclusions: In a real-world setting, the main referral reason for capillaroscopy was Raynaud's phenomenon; more than a third of the subjects had normal capillaroscopic findings. Sclerodactyly was the most frequent clinical finding in patients with scleroderma capillaroscopic pattern.

Introducción: La videocapilaroscopia del lecho ungular es una herramienta no invasiva para la evaluación de la microcirculación periférica; la indicación principal es el estudio del fenómeno de Raynaud. Luego de una revisión de la literatura, no hay información clara sobre los motivos de remisión, presencia de hallazgos clínicos de enfermedades autoinmunes, frecuencia de patrones de autoanticuerpos y hallazgos capilaroscópicos específicos. Objetivo: Describir los hallazgos sociodemográficos, clínicos, paraclínicos y capilaroscópicos de sujetos remitidos a un servicio de capilaroscopia en el noroccidente colombiano. Métodos: Estudio retrospectivo de 2015 a 2018. Las variables categóricas se expresaron en frecuencias absolutas y porcentajes, y las variables cuantitativas en media y desviación estándar o mediana con rango intercuartílico, dependiendo de la distribución de los datos. Resultados: Se realizaron 318 capilaroscopias por primera vez. El principal motivo de remisión fue el fenómeno de Raynaud (n = 134; 42,1%). El patrón capilaroscópico basal más frecuente fue el normal (n = 123; 38,7%). De las 12 capilaroscopias que presentaron un patrón no específico en un seguimiento de seis meses, solo una (8,3%) progresó a un patrón de esclerodermia. En los sujetos con esclerosis sistémica, el hallazgo clínico más frecuente fue la esclerodactilia (n = 34; 37,8%), y 42/44 individuos (95,4%) tenían anticuerpos antinucleares positivos; el patrón más frecuente fue el centromérico (n = 27; 64,3%). Conclusiones: La razón principal de remisión para realizar una capilaroscopia fue el fenómeno de Raynaud; más de un tercio de los sujetos tenían hallazgos capilaroscópicos normales. La esclerodactilia fue el hallazgo clínico más frecuente en pacientes con patrón capilaroscópico de esclerodermia.

Cardiovascular disease risk prediction in scleroderma

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: Cardiovascular disease risk prediction in scleroderma is important. In this study of scleroderma patients, the aim was to investigate the relationship between cardiac myosin-binding protein-C, sensitive troponin T, and trimethylamine N-oxide and cardiovascular disease risk with the Systematic COronary Risk Evaluation 2 model of the European Society of Cardiology. METHODS: Systematic COronary Risk Evaluation 2 risk groups of 38 healthy controls and 52 women with scleroderma were evaluated. Cardiac myosin-binding protein-C, sensitive troponin T, and trimethylamine N-oxide levels were analyzed with commercial ELISA kits. RESULTS: In scleroderma patients, cardiac myosin-binding protein-C and trimethylamine N-oxide levels were higher than healthy controls but sensitive troponin T was not (p<0.001, p<0.001, and p=0.274, respectively). Out of 52 patients, 36 (69.2%) were at low risk, and the other 16 (30.8%) patients were at high-moderate risk with the Systematic COronary Risk Evaluation 2 model. At the optimal cutoff values, trimethylamine N-oxide could discriminate high-moderate risk with sensitivity 76%, specificity 86% and cardiac myosin-binding protein-C with sensitivity 75%, specificity 83%. Patients with high trimethylamine N-oxide levels (≥10.28 ng/mL) could predict high-moderate- Systematic COronary Risk Evaluation 2 risk 15 times higher than those with low trimethylamine N-oxide (<10.28 ng/mL) levels (odds ratio [OR]: 15.00, 95%CI 3.585-62.765, p<0.001). Similarly, high cardiac myosin-binding protein-C (≥8.29 ng/mL) levels could predict significantly higher Systematic COronary Risk Evaluation 2 risk than low cardiac myosin-binding protein-C (<8.29 ng/mL) levels (OR: 11.00, 95%CI 2.786-43.430). CONCLUSION: Noninvasive cardiovascular disease risk prediction indicators in scleroderma, cardiac myosin-binding protein-C, and trimethylamine N-oxide could be recommended to distinguish between high-moderate risk and low risk with the Systematic COronary Risk Evaluation 2 model.

Crosstalk between the JAK2 and TGF-β1 signaling pathways in scleroderma-related interstitial lung disease targeted by baricitinib

Abstract Background and objective Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an immune-mediated rheumatic disease characterized by fibrosis and vascular lesions. Interstitial lung disease is an early complication of SSc and the main cause of death from SSc. Although baricitinib shows good efficacy in a variety of connective tissue diseases, its role in systemic sclerosis-related interstitial lung disease (SSc-ILD) is unclear. The objective of our study was to explore the effect and mechanism of baricitinib in SSc-ILD. Methods We explored crosstalk between the JAK2 and TGF-β1 pathways. In vivo experiments, SSc-ILD mice model were constructed by subcutaneous injection of PBS or bleomycin (7.5 mg/kg) and intragastric administration of 0.5% CMC-Na or baricitinib (5 mg/kg) once every two days. We used ELISA, qRT-PCR, western blot and immunofluorescence staining to evaluate the degree of fibrosis. In vitro experiments, we used TGF-β1 and baricitinib to stimulate human fetal lung fibroblasts (HFLs) and assessed protein expression by western blot. Results The vivo experiments showed that baricitinib notably alleviated skin and lung fibrosis, decreased the concentration of pro-inflammatory factors and increased those of the anti-inflammatory factors. Baricitinib affected the expression of TGF-β1 and TβRI/II inhibitiing JAK2. In the vitro experiments, following the culture of HFLs with baricitinib or a STAT3 inhibitor for 48 h, the expression levels of TβRI/II decreased. Conversely, with successful inhibition of TGF-β receptors in HFLs, JAK2 protein expression decreased. Conclusions Baricitinib attenuated bleomycin-induced skin and lung fibrosis in SSc-ILD mice model by targeting JAK2 and regulating of the crosstalk between the JAK2 and TGF-β1 signaling pathways.

Enxertos compostos de gordura para correção de distrofia facial em caso de esclerodermia localizada / Composite fat grafts for correcting facial dystrophy in a case of localized scleroderma

A esclerodermia localizada (morfeia linear) é uma doença rara que causa distrofia e assimetria faciais em mulheres jovens. É relatado o caso de uma paciente de 20 anos que foi tratada com enxertos compostos de gordura. Após a coleta do lipoaspirado de gordura subcutânea profunda, a microgordura e a nanogordura não filtrada foram processadas separadamente para formar enxertos compostos de gordura. Estes foram meticulosamente transplantados em camadas, para reconstruir o subcutaneo da face da paciente. Após um ano, observou-se boa pega de gordura com correção bem-sucedida da assimetria e restabelecimento do equilíbrio facial.

Localized scleroderma (linear morphea) is a rare disease that causes facial dystrophy and asymmetry in young women. We report the case of a 20-year-old female patient who was treated with novel composite fat grafts. After extracting lipoaspirate from deep subcutaneous fat, the microfat and the unfiltered nanofat were processed separately, and amalgamated, obtaining composite fat grafts. These were meticulously transplanted layer by layer to rebuild the subcutaneous tissue of the patient's face. After one year, a good volume of fat retention was observed with successful correction of asymmetry and restoration of facial balance.

Screening tool development for hand surgery referrals in systemic sclerosis

Abstract Background Systemic Sclerosis (SSc) patients may need hand surgery. Objective To develop a screening tool for rheumatologists to identify potential candidates with systemic sclerosis for hand surgery, optimizing referrals. Methods A pilot cross-sectional study from January 2015 to December 2016. Sample size: 51 participants. Inclusion criteria: ≥ 18 years old, meeting the 2013 American College of Rheumatology/European League Against Rheumatism (ACR/EULAR) classification criteria for SSc and hand impairment. Data collected: age, sex, race, disease duration, SSc subtypes, vasodilator use, skin thickness, finger stiffness, presence of Digital Ulcers (DU) and/or calcinosis, presence of Raynaud's Phenomenon (RP) attacks, health status and disability, disease status, pain intensity and functional status of the hands. Data were analyzed by a multivariate logistic regression model. Results Fulfillment of surgical criteria: 68.8%. The surgical group had higher scores on the HAQ-DI (1.39 vs. 0.96, p =0.032) and CHFS (25.0 vs. 12.0, p =0.005) questionnaires, and a higher frequency of DU (91.43% vs. 18.75%, p <0.0010), calcinosis (60.0% vs. 0.0%, p <0.001), use of vasodilators (100.0% vs. 75.0%, p =0.007) and digital stiffness (28.57% vs. 0.0%, p =0.017). The presence of DU increased the chance of surgical indication by 46.2 times (ORIC 95% = 8.23 to 259.49). The statistical model showed good accuracy (86.3%, p <0.001), sensitivity (91.4%), and specificity (81.2%). Conclusion The presence of DU in SSc could be used as a screening feature for early identification and referral of potential candidates for hand surgery.

Systemic scleroderma: imaging findings of diagnosis and clinical management of temporomandibular joint disorders / Esclerodermia sistêmica: diagnóstico por achados imaginológicos e manejo clínico das disfunções temporomandibulares

Scleroderma, an autoimmune disease, directly affects the production of collagen in the connective tissue. In its systemic form, the disease causes oral manifestations such as: limited mouth opening, xerostomia, periodontal disease, thickening of the periodontal ligament and bone resorption of the mandible. This case report aims to draw attention to the difficulties encountered in providing dental care to patients with scleroderma and also to highlight the imaging findings, with emphasis on the temporomandibular joints, which are of interest to dentists about the disease. In the present case, the patient presented bilateral condylar erosion, in addition to disc displacement without reduction. Due to the systemic condition of the patient, it was decided to make an individualized occlusal splint. The limitation of mouth opening is a limiting factor for the manufacture of prostheses and plates, which is why partial prostheses are indicated and are easily removed by the patient. The decisions taken have a great impact on the health and quality of life of patients in these conditions, so there is a need for multidisciplinary involvement in order to arrive at the best treatment plan. After five years of using the stabilizing plate overnight, the patient reports greater comfort and muscle relaxation upon waking up (AU)

Esclerodermia, uma doença autoimune, afeta diretamente a produção de colágeno do tecido conjuntivo. Na forma sistêmica, a doença causa manifestações bucais, como: limitação de abertura bucal, xerostomia, doença periodontal, espessamento do ligamento periodontal e reabsorção da mandíbula. Este relato de caso tem por objetivo chamar atenção para as dificuldades encontradas ao promover atendimento odontológico para pacientes com esclerodermia e também destacar os achados imaginológicos, com ênfase na articulação temporomandibular, que são da doença e de interessa ao cirurgião-dentista. No presente caso, a paciente apresentava erosão condilar bilateral, com deslocamento de disco sem redução. Devido à condição sistêmica da paciente, foi decidido confeccionar uma placa oclusal individualizada. A limitação de abertura bucal é um fator limitante para confecção de próteses e placas, por isso próteses parciais são indicadas, além de serem de fácil remoção pelo paciente. As decisões tomadas tem grande impacto na saúde e qualidade de vida de pacientes nessas condições, deste modo é necessário uma equipe multidisciplinar envolvidas para chegar no melhor plano de tratamento. Após cinco anos fazendo uso da placa estabilizadora durante a noite, a paciente relata maior conforto e relaxamento muscular ao acordar (AU)

The proportion of Th17 cells in patients with systemic sclerosis: a Meta-analysis / 中华风湿病学杂志

Objective:To clarify peripheral Th17 level in SSc patients and its correlation with disease.Methods:Chinese databases CNKI, CBM, Wanfang and VIP, and English databases PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, Cochrane Library and Science Direct were searched to collect a case-control study on the content of Th17 cells in peripheral blood of patients with SSc. The papers published when the database was first developed in 25 February 2021. Meta-analysis was conducted using Stata 12.0 software, and I2 and Egger tests were used to evaluate the heterogeneity and publication bias between studies. Results:A total of 26 case-controls were included in the study, including 1 160 patients with SSc and 778 healthy controls. Overall, the percentage of Th17 cells in SSc patients was higher than in healthy controls [SMD(95% CI)=1.85 (1.33, 2.38), P<0.001], which was most significant in IL-17 +Th17 concentration [SMD(95% CI)=1.88 (1.28, 2.48), P<0.001]. As for disease activity, the proportion of Th17 cells in active SSc patients was much higher than those of patients in remission [SMD(95% CI)=1.92 (1.12, 2.71), P<0.001]. SSc patients had a reduced Th17 level after receiving DMARDs treatment [SMD(95% CI)=-0.74 (-1.05, -0.42), P=0.029]. Conclusion:The number of Th17 cells increase significantly in the peripheral blood of patients with SSc, and is related to disease activity. DMARDs can be used to treat this disease by downregulating Th17 levels.

ZHANG Lei's Experience in Treating Scleroderma from “Extraordinary Pathogens Entering Collaterals” / 中医杂志

@#This paper summarized professor ZHANG Lei′s experience in treating scleroderma from “extraordinary pathogens entering collaterals”. The basic pathogenesis of scleroderma is “extraordinary pathogens entering the collaterals”， and extraordinary pathogens can be divided into external and internal categories. External extraordinary pathogens are mostly exogenous wind， cold and damp pathogens， and the pathogenesis is wind， cold and damp invading skin stria and retaining collaterals. Most of the endogenous extraordinary pathogens are turbid phlegm and blood stasis， and the pathogenesis is endogenous phlegm and stasis leaving the channels and overflowing the collaterals， and blocking the collaterals. Blocked by extraordinary pathogens for a long time， the long illness will lead to deficiency and develop into a syndrome of collaterals excess and channels deficiency. Therefore， professor ZHANG creats Tengluo Beverage （藤络饮） as the basic formula to unblock collaterals and dispel pathogens， and recommends to add or subtract it according to the different syndrome and pathogenic characteristics of the edema stage， sclerosis stage， and atrophy stage. In the edema stage， it is advised to expel wind， remove dampness and unblock the collaterals， while in the sclerosis stage， the method of dissolving phlegm， expelling stasis and unblocking collaterals should be used； in the atrophic stage， it is suggested to differentiate the deficiency of qi， blood， yin and yang， and eliminate extraordinary pathogens on the basis of reinforcing healthy qi .

ZHANG Lei's Experience in Treating Scleroderma from “Extraordinary Pathogens Entering Collaterals” / 中医杂志

This paper summarized professor ZHANG Lei′s experience in treating scleroderma from “extraordinary pathogens entering collaterals”. The basic pathogenesis of scleroderma is “extraordinary pathogens entering the collaterals”， and extraordinary pathogens can be divided into external and internal categories. External extraordinary pathogens are mostly exogenous wind， cold and damp pathogens， and the pathogenesis is wind， cold and damp invading skin stria and retaining collaterals. Most of the endogenous extraordinary pathogens are turbid phlegm and blood stasis， and the pathogenesis is endogenous phlegm and stasis leaving the channels and overflowing the collaterals， and blocking the collaterals. Blocked by extraordinary pathogens for a long time， the long illness will lead to deficiency and develop into a syndrome of collaterals excess and channels deficiency. Therefore， professor ZHANG creats Tengluo Beverage （藤络饮） as the basic formula to unblock collaterals and dispel pathogens， and recommends to add or subtract it according to the different syndrome and pathogenic characteristics of the edema stage， sclerosis stage， and atrophy stage. In the edema stage， it is advised to expel wind， remove dampness and unblock the collaterals， while in the sclerosis stage， the method of dissolving phlegm， expelling stasis and unblocking collaterals should be used； in the atrophic stage， it is suggested to differentiate the deficiency of qi， blood， yin and yang， and eliminate extraordinary pathogens on the basis of reinforcing healthy qi .

Atrofodermia de Pasini-Pierini, presentación de dos casos clínicos / Atrophoderma of Pasini and Pierini. Presentation of two clinical cases / Atrofodermia de Pasini-Pierini, apresentação de dois casos clínicos

La atrofodermia de Pasini-Pierini es una enfermedad rara con menos de 100 reportes de casos en la literatura, más frecuente en mujeres, predominando en la segunda o tercera década de la vida. Genera una atrofia a nivel dérmico, presentándose como una placa única o múltiple, de bordes bien definidos con un desnivel en profundidad. La causa es desconocida, se ha relacionado con infecciones por Borrelia Burgdorferi. En cuanto a los tratamientos disponibles, no existe un tratamiento comprobado de primera línea, se indica en algunos casos doxiciclina por periodos prolongados. Se presentan dos casos clínicos de la atrofodermia de Pasini-Pierini y se revisan las características de dicha entidad.

Summary: Atrophoderma of Pasini and Pierini is a rare disease, there being under 100 cases reported in literature. It is more frequent in women, and mainly occurs in their twenties or thirties. This condition results in dermal atrophy, and it may present as single or multiple plaques, with well-defined borders by differences in depth. The cause is unknown, although it has been related to Borrelia Burgdorferi infections. As to available therapies, there is no first line clinically proven treatment, although in some cases doxycycline is indicated for long periods. The study presents two clinical cases of atrophoderma of Pasini and Pierini and reviews the main characteristics of this condition.

A atrofodermia de Pasini-Pierini é uma doença rara com menos de 100 casos relatados na literatura; é mais frequente em mulheres, predominando na segunda ou terceira década de vida. Gera atrofia em nível dérmico, apresentando-se como placa única ou múltipla, com bordas bem definidas e depressão em relação à pele adjacente. A causa é desconhecida e tem sido associada a infecções por Borrelia burgdorferi. Em relação aos tratamentos disponíveis, não há tratamento comprovado de primeira linha, sendo a doxiciclina indicada por longos períodos em alguns casos. Apresentam-se dois casos clínicos de atrofodermia de Pasini-Pierini e faz-se uma revisão das características desta entidade.

Cyclophosphamide Pulse Therapy in the Treatment of Systemic Sclerosis Associated Interstitial Lung Disease: An Observational Study

Introduction: Scleroderma is a multisystem autoimmune connective tissue disease with approximately 90% of patients having lung involvement. It is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in scleroderma. There is no effective treatment once there is lung involvement in the form of fibrosis. Study setting: Conducted in a tertiary care center between January 2017 and December 2019. Aim: To evaluate the efficacy of intravenous cyclophosphamide in patients with scleroderma-associated interstitial lung disease (ILD). Study population: Symptomatic patient with scleroderma with high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT)-proven non-specific interstitial pneumonia (NSIP)-pattern ILD. Methodology: Patients received 12 cycles of cyclophosphamide at a dose of 10 mg/kg every 4 weeks. Patients were followed up for 1 year after treatment completion. A six-minute walk test (6MWT) and spirometry were done at baseline and then every 6 months up to 2 years. Diffusing capacity of lung for carbon monoxide (DLCO) was done at baseline and then yearly for up to 2 years. Results: A total of 38 patients completed the study. The majority of patients had diffuse cutaneous type of systemic sclerosis. Throughout the study period, there was a gradual worsening of dyspnea as measured by the Modified Medical Research Council (mMRC) scale. Mean forced vital capacity (FVC) improved with 1 year of treatment, but later steadily decreased during follow-up. Similarly, DLCO also improved during 1-year treatment, but the improvement was not sustained during follow-up. There was a statistically significant improvement in 6MWD at the end of 6 months. This was followed by a gradual fall in 6MWD during follow-up. The only adverse event noted was persistent leukopenia in one patient. Conclusion: Intravenous pulse cyclophosphamide therapy in patients with scleroderma-associated ILD is associated with stabilization of pulmonary function during the treatment period, but not maintained during follow-up.

Simpatectomía de la arteria radial y ulnar en contexto de úlcera digital secundaria a esclerosis sistémica cutánea localizada / Radial and ulnar artery sympathectomy in the context of digital ulcer secondary to localized cutaneous systemic sclerosis

SPeripheral sympathectomy is a procedure which has shown high rates of decreasing ischemic pain, recover functionality and wound healing, preventing the progression of the disease and further complications. We present a female patient with severe Raynaud´s phenomenon secondary to localized cutaneous systemic sclerosis complicated who presented digital ulcer treated with a sympathectomy of the radial and ulnar artery at the wrist level, undergoing post-operative follow-up.

Intravenous infusion of mesenchymal stem cells for refractory systemic sclerosis management: TWo-year follow-up

Systemic sclerosis is an autoimmune disease whose etiology remains unknown. Some patients prove refractory and require other therapies. Recently, the use of mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) for the treatment of disease refractory to conventional treatments has been considered. We present a case of refractory systemic sclerosis; Wharton's jelly mesenchymal stem cell was given in response. Decrease in perioral wrinkles, reduced telangiectasia and decrease in modified Rodnan skin score were observed two years later. A decrease in brain natriuretic peptide and improved pulmonary function were also found. And improvement of pulmonary fibrosis on high resolution tomography and capillaroscopy changes. In conclusion, MSC infusion seems to be effective and safe treatment of refractory scleroderma

La esclerosis sistémica es una enfermedad autoinmune de etiología desconocida y difícil manejo. Algunos casos que se tornan refractarios requieren terapias alternativas, como las células madre mesenquimales (MSC). Presentamos un caso de esclerosis sistémica refractaria que se llevó a terapia con MSC de gelatina de Wharton. Tras dos años, se observó ∗ Corresponding disminución en arrugas peribucales, aumento en apertura bucal, reducción de telangiectasias y en Rodnan modificado. También hubo disminución del péptido natriurético cerebral y mejora de pruebas de función pulmonar desde los seis meses de seguimiento, con mejoría en fibrosis pulmonar en tomografía de alta resolución y cambios en la capilaroscopia. En conclusión, el tratamiento con infusión de MSC parece efectivo y seguro en esclerosis sistémica refractaria.