Depresión e inflamación: ¿Una relación más allá del azar? / Depression and inflammation: a relationship beyond random?

El tratamiento actual de la depresión mayor, una condición de alta prevalencia a nivel mundial, aún no resulta satisfactorio por las significativas tasas de falta de respuesta o de síntomas residuales. Esto, entre otras razones, ha motivado a la búsqueda de nuevos modelos de comprensión de los procesos biológicos que están a la base de esta enfermedad, con el propósito de encontrar mejores estrategias terapéuticas, al menos desde el punto de vista farmacológico. Se examinan algunas correspondencias entre los fenómenos clínicos y la articulación de los sistemas inmune, nervioso y endocrino, y se revisa algunas relaciones entre depresión y enfermedades inflamatorias sistémicas.

The current treatment of major depression, a condition of high prevalence worldwide, is still unsatisfactory due to the elevated rates of non-response or residual symptoms. This, among other reasons, has motivated the search for new models of understanding the biological processes that could better explain this disease, with the purpose of finding better therapeutic strategies, at least from the pharmacological point of view. Some correspondences between clinical phenomena and the interplay of the immune, nervous and endocrine systems are examined. Also, some relationships between depression and systemic inflammatory diseases are reviewed.

Translation to Brazilian Portuguese, cultural adaptation and psychometric properties of 8-item ArthritisSelf-Efficacy Scale (ASES-8)

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Self-efficacy refers to one's belief in one's ability to organize, perform actions and face challenges in order to achieve goals and motivation. High self-efficacy improves disease coping and adherence to treatment among patients with rheumatoid arthritis. The objective of this study was to translate, culturally adapt and test the reproducibility of the 8-item Arthritis Self-Efficacy Scale (ASES-8) questionnaire for use in Brazil. DESIGN AND SETTING: Validation study conducted in university outpatient clinics. METHODS: The questionnaire was translated into Brazilian Portuguese and then back-translated into English. The final version in Portuguese was tested on 30 patients with rheumatoid arthritis and was shown to be understandable and culturally adapted. A further 32 patients with rheumatoid arthritis were evaluated three times using the questionnaire. On the first occasion, two evaluators applied the questionnaire to check inter-evaluator reproducibility. After 15 days, one of the evaluators reassessed the patients to verify intra-evaluator reproducibility. At the first assessment, to test the construct validity of ASES-8, the Numerical Pain Scale, Health Assessment Questionnaire, Beck Depression Inventory and Short Form-36 questionnaire were also applied to all the patients. RESULTS: The inter and intra-evaluator correlation coefficients for ASES-8 were high. Cronbach's alpha was higher than 0.90 for the questionnaire, indicating excellent internal consistency. There were moderate correlations between ASES-8 and most of the instruments tested, indicating good construct validity. CONCLUSION: ASES-8 was translated and adapted to the Portuguese language for Brazil. This instrument is valid, reproducible and reliable for evaluating self-efficacy among patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

Socioeconomic and therapy factor influence on self-reported fatigue, anxiety and depression in rheumatoid arthritis patients / Influência de fatores socioeconômicos e de tratamento sobre a fadiga, ansiedade e depressão autorrelatadas em pacientes com artrite reumatoide

Abstract Introduction: Fatigue, anxiety and depression are very frequent symptoms in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Goals: In this study we evaluated the influence of socioeconomic characteristics, therapy and comorbidities on the self-reported high fatigue, anxiety and depression in patients with RA. Method: Multicenter cross-sectional study was performed in 22 health institutions in Serbia during the period from April-August 2014 in population of older RA patients. Self-reported patients health status was measured by: Fatigue Assessment Scale, Patient Health Questionnaire-9 and Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7. Treatment modalities were defined as: (1) non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and/or analgesics and/or corticosteroids; (2) synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) alone or in combination with corticosteroids and/or NSAIDs and (3) any RA treatment which includes biologic DMARDs. Results: There were significant predictors of high depression: synthetic DMARDs therapy in combination with corticosteroids and/or NSAIDs, physiotherapist self-payment, frequent taxi use, alternative treatment and employment status. The need for another person's assistance, supplemental calcium therapy and professional qualifications were the predictors of a high fatigue, whereas the age above 65 years had the protective effect on it. Anxiety was an independent high fatigue predictor. The predictors of a high anxiety were: gastroprotection with proton-pump inhibitors and patient occupation. Conclusion Socioeconomic predictors of self-reported high depression, anxiety or fatigue are different for each of the mentioned outcomes, while accompanied with the basic RA treatment they exclusively explain a high depression. The anxiety, jointed with the socioeconomic variables and supplemental therapy, is a significant fatigue predictor in RA patients.

Resumo Introdução: A fadiga, a ansiedade e a depressão são sintomas muito frequentes em pacientes com artrite reumatoide (AR). Objetivos: Neste estudo, avaliou-se a influência de características socioeconômicas, características de tratamento e comorbidades na elevação na fadiga, ansiedade e depressão autorrelatadas em pacientes com AR. Método: Este estudo transversal multicêntrico foi feito em 22 instituições de saúde na Sérvia de abril a agosto de 2014 na população de pacientes idosos com AR. O status de saúde autorrelatado dos pacientes foi medido pelos instrumentos Fatigue Assessment Scale, Patient Health Questionnaire-9 e Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7. As modalidades de tratamento foram definidas como: 1) anti-inflamatórios não esteroides (AINE) e/ou analgésicos e/ou corticosteroides; 2) fármacos antirreumáticos modificadores da doença sintéticos (DMARD) isoladamente ou em combinação com corticosteroides e/ou AINE e 3) qualquer tratamento para a AR que incluísse DMARD biológicos. Resultados: Houve preditores significativos de depressão elevada: tratamento com DMARD sintéticos em combinação com corticosteroides e/ou AINE, pagamento particular de fisioterapia, uso frequente de serviços de táxi, terapias alternativas e status ocupacional. A necessidade de assistência de outra pessoa, o tratamento suplementar com cálcio e as qualificações profissionais foram os preditores de fadiga elevada. A idade acima de 65 anos teve um efeito protetor sobre a fadiga elevada. A ansiedade foi um preditor independente de fadiga elevada. Os preditores ansiedade elevada foram: gastroproteção com inibidores da bomba de prótons e ocupação do paciente. Conclusão: Os preditores socioeconômicos de níveis elevados de depressão, ansiedade ou fadiga autorrelatadas são diferentes para cada um dos desfechos mencionados; quando acompanhados do tratamento básico para a AR, esses preditores socioeconômicos explicam exclusivamente uma depressão elevada. A ansiedade, associada às variáveis socioeconômicas e ao tratamento complementar, é um importante preditor da fadiga em pacientes com AR.

Estado de humor na Artrite Reumatoide / Mood state in Rheumatoid Arthritis

Introdução: A Artrite Reumatoide (AR) é uma doença autoimune de caráter progressivo e incapacitante, associada a perturbações de humor. Contudo, constata-se pouca atenção aos potenciais efeitos das alterações emocionais. Objetivos: Caracterizar e comparar o estado de humor de pacientes com AR, com base no nível de atividade da doença. Métodos: Foram avaliados 80 indivíduos com AR, com 52,72 ± 15,14 anos. Para avaliação do nível de atividade de doença, foi utilizado o Disease Activity Score-28 (DAS-28). A avaliação do Estado de Humor foi realizada com a Escala de Humor Brasileira (BRAMS). Resultados: Foram observadas alterações de humor nos domínios raiva, tensão e vigor sendo que o grupo classificado em alta atividade da doença apresentou os piores quadros de humor. Conclusão: Estes dados ressaltam a importância de um tratamento multidisciplinar, visando melhora do estado de humor e da qualidade de vida desses indivíduos, conduzindo a uma melhor gestão terapêutica da AR.

Introduction: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a progressive and disabling autoimmune associated with mood disorders. However, little attention is paid to the potential effects on the emotional alterations. Objectives: To characterize and compare the mood state of patients with RA, based on the level of disease activity. Methods: 80 subjects were evaluated with RA, with 52.72 ± 15.14 years. The Disease Activity Score-28 (DAS-28) was used to assess the level of the disease activity. The evaluation of the Mood State was performed with the Brazilian Humor Scale (BRAMS). Results: Mood alterations were observed in the anger, tension and vigor domains, of which the group classified as having a high disease activity had the worst mood pictures. Conclusion: These data highlight the importance of a multidisciplinary treatment aiming to improve the mood and quality of life of these individuals, leading to a better therapeutic management of RA

Falls and their association with physical tests, functional capacity, clinical and demographic factors in patients with rheumatoid arthritis / Ocorrência de quedas e sua associação com testes físicos, capacidade funcional e aspectos clínicos e demográficos em pacientes com artrite reumatoide

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the occurrence of falls reported by rheumatoid arthritis patients and its relation to disease activity, functional capacity and physical fitness. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study constituted by a sample of 97 rheumatoid arthritis patients from the city of Marília (SP) from 2012 to 2013, were assessed for disease activity. Instruments validated for Brazilian population in order to evaluate physical and functional capacity were used. Data analysis was carried out with descriptive statistics, Spearman correlation and Chi-squared test, considering p < 0.05. Results: 88.7% were female subjects with a mean age of 56 (±11.7) years. The median duration of rheumatoid arthritis was 10 years (P25 = 6 and P75 = 17) and the mean of disease activity was 3.6 (±1.3), what was considered a moderate activity. In the last 12 months 37.1% of patients experienced at least one fall, with a total of 52 episodes, and fear of falling was reported by 74.2% of them, but this was not associated to the occurrence of a fall (χ 2 = 1.19, p = 0.27). Gender, number of medications, age, disease activity, duration of rheumatoid arthritis, functional capacity, and physical tests showed no associations with history of falls in the past year. Conclusion: It was observed that the occurrence of falls and the fear of falling are quite common in this population. The occurrence of falls in this sample of rheumatoid arthritis patients bears no relation to disease activity, functional capacity, or physical fitness tests.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar a ocorrência de quedas reportadas por pacientes com artrite reumatoide (AR) e sua associação com a atividade da doença, capacidade funcional e aptidão física. Material e métodos: Estudo transversal com uma amostra de 97 pacientes com AR em Marília (SP), entre 2012 e 2013. Foram usados instrumentos validados na população brasileira para avaliar capacidade física e funcional. Análise dos dados com estatística descritiva, correlações de Spearman e qui-quadrado, considerado p < 0,05. Resultados: Dos pacientes, 88% eram mulheres, média de 56, anos (± 11,7), duração mediana da AR de 10 anos (P25 = 6 e P75 = 17) e média da atividade da doença 3,6 (± 1,3). Nos últimos 12 meses, 37,1% tiveram pelo menos uma queda (total 52 episódios), 74,2% relataram medo de cair, porém sem associação com a ocorrência de quedas (χ2 = 1,19, p = 0,27). Sexo, quantidade de medicamentos, idade, atividade da doença, duração da AR, capacidade funcional e testes físicos não estão associados com história de queda no último ano. Conclusões: Observou-se que a ocorrência de quedas e o medo de cair é frequente nessa população. A ocorrência de quedas nessa amostra de pacientes com AR não está relacionada à atividade da doença, à capacidade funcional e a testes de aptidão física.

Sensitivity and specificity of assessment instruments of quality of life in rheumatoid arthritis / Sensibilidade e especificidade dos instrumentos de avaliação da qualidade de vida na artrite reumatoide

ABSTRACT Objective: To check sensitivity and specificity of assessment instruments of QoL in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Methodology: Accuracy study in a sample consisting of patients with confirmed diagnosis of RA. QoL questionnaires QV SF-36 (Gold Standard), HAQ and NHP were applied. The Pearson correlation coefficient, ROC curve, AUC and Youden Index (J) were used to analyze the data. Results: This study enrolled 97 individuals with RA. The functional capacity estimated by SF-36 was correlated with the total score of HAQ (r = −0.666; p < 0.001; J = 0.579), while the emotional aspects of SF-36 were correlated with the emotional reactions domain of NHP (r = −0.316; p = 0.005; J = 0.341). The vitality domain of SF-36 was correlated with the level of energy of NHP (r = −0.362; p = 0.001; J = 0.302). For the evaluation of functional capacity (AUC = 0.839; p < 0.001) and physical aspect (AUC = 0.755; p < 0.001) the most accurate instrument was the HAQ. For evaluation of the impact of vitality, sleep (AUC = 0.679; p = 0.007), emotional reactions (AUC = 0.674; p = 0.009) and level of energy in QoL, the NHP (AUC = 0.633; p = 0.045) was the most specific and sensitive. In the evaluation of the emotional aspect domain, the most accurate instrument was the NHP in the “emotional reaction” score (AUC = 0.699; p = 0.003). The evaluation of pain was limited in the three instruments and SF-36 was the only one in assess of the domains of social aspects and general health status. Conclusion: For evaluation of the physical aspects in patients with RA, the HAQ is the most accurate. For evaluation of emotional aspects the NHP is the most indicated, although the SF-36 was the only one in the evaluation of general domains.

RESUMO Objetivo: Verificar a sensibilidade e a especificidade dos instrumentos de avaliação da qualidade de vida em pacientes com artrite reumatoide (AR). Metodologia: Estudo de acurácia em uma amostra de pacientes com diagnóstico confirmado de AR. Aplicaram-se os questionários de QV SF-36 (padrão ouro), HAQ e NHP. Usaram-se o coeficiente de correlação de Pearson, a curva ROC, a ASC e o índice de Youden (J) para analisar os dados. Resultados: Este estudo envolveu 97 indivíduos com AR. A capacidade funcional estimada pelo SF-36 esteve correlacionada com a pontuação total do HAQ (r = −0,666; p < 0,001; J = 0,579), enquanto o aspecto emocional do SF-36 esteve correlacionado com o domínio reação emocional do NHP (r = −0,316; p = 0,005; J = 0,341). O domínio vitalidade do SF-36 esteve correlacionado com o nível de energia do NHP (r = −0,362; p = 0,001; J = 0,302). Para a avaliação da capacidade funcional (ASC = 0,839; p < 0,001) e aspecto físico (ASC = 0,755; p < 0,001), o instrumento mais preciso foi o HAQ. Para a avaliação do impacto da vitalidade, do sono (ASC = 0,679; p = 0,007), da reação emocional (ASC = 0,674; p = 0,009) e do nível de energia na QV, o NHP (ASC = 0,633; p = 0,045) foi o instrumento mais específico e sensível. Na avaliação do domínio aspecto emocional, o instrumento mais preciso foi o NHP no domínio reação emocional (ASC = 0,699; p = 0,003). A avaliação da dor foi limitada nos três instrumentos e o SF-36 foi o único a avaliar os domínios aspecto social e estado geral de Saúde. Conclusão: Para a avaliação do aspecto físico em pacientes com AR, o HAQ é o instrumento mais preciso. Para a avaliação do aspecto emocional, o NHP é o mais indicado, embora o SF-36 seja o único a avaliar domínios gerais.

Estructura factorial y confiabilidad de la versión en español del cuestionario quality of life measure for rheumatoid arthritis scale (QOL-RA) en población colombiana / Factorial structure and reliability of the spanish version of thequality of life measure for rheumatoid arthritis (QOL-RA) incolombian population

Objetivo: Analizar la estructura factorial y la confiabilidad de la versión en español del cuestionario Quality of Life Measure for Rheumatoid Arthritis (QOL-RA) en población colombiana. Pacientes y métodos: Estudio de corte transversal, de alcance descriptivo y de tipo instrumental, con una cohorte de 124 pacientes diagnosticados con artritis reumatoide de la ciudad de Medellín, Colombia. Se realizó la aplicación del cuestionario QOLRA y el análisis estadístico posterior. Resultados: El análisis factorial denota dos factores independientes: factor físicopsicológico, y factor sociopsicológico, y un alfa de Cronbach de 0,885. Conclusiones: Los resultados muestran una alta confiabilidad y concordancia en la estructura factorial con la versión original, lo que implica adecuada validez de la prueba en población colombiana, recomendando su utilización en la población nacional con AR, y sugiriendo estudios transculturales en calidad de vida con ellos.

Objective: To analyze the factorial structure and reliability of the Spanish version of the Quality of Life Measure for Rheumatoid Arthritis (QOL-RA) in Colombian population. Patients and methods: Cross-sectional, descriptive and instrumental study, with a cohort of 124 patients diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis in Medellin, Colombia. The questionnaire application QOL-RA and the subsequent statistical analysis. Results: Factor analysis indicates two independent factors: physical psychological factor, and socio-psychological factor, and a Cronbach’s alpha of 0,885. Conclusions: The results show high reliability and factor structure in accordance with the original version, which implies adequate validity of proof in Colombian population, recommending its use in the national population with RA, and cultural studies suggesting Quality of life with them.

Sintomas depressivos e de ansiedade e apoio social estão associados de modo independente à qualidade de vida específica da doença em pacientes colombianos com artrite reumatoide / Depressive and anxiety symptoms and social support are independently associated with disease-specific quality of life in Colombian patients with rheumatoid arthritis

RESUMOObjetivo:Analisar a relação entre a qualidade de vida (QV) específica da doença e fatores sociodemográficos, clínicos e psicossociais em pacientes colombianos com artrite reumatoide (AR).Métodos:Recrutaram-se 103 pacientes com AR em centros ambulatoriais de Neiva, na Colômbia. Eles responderam ao Disease Activity Scale 28 (DAS-28), QOL-RA, Escala de Autoavaliação da Depressão de Zung, Inventário de Ansiedade Traço-Estado (Idate), Interpersonal Support Evaluation List-12 (Isel-12) e Symptom Checklist-90 Revised (SCL-90R).Resultados:Escores mais baixos de QOL-RA estiveram associados a uma pior condição socioeconômica (CSE; r = 0,26, p < 0,01), maior probabilidade de usar opioides (t = -2,51, p < 0,05), maior probabilidade de doença pulmonar comórbida (t = -2,22, p < 0,05) e pontuações inferiores nas subescalas do ISEL-12 (r's = 0,41-0,31, p's < 0,001). Uma menor pontuação no QOL-RA esteve associada a escores mais elevados no DAS-28 (r = -0,28, p < 0,01), Escala Analógica Visual (EVA; r = -0,35, p < 0,001), Escala de Autoavaliação da Depressão de Zung (r = -0,72, p < 0,001), Idate-Estado (r = -0,66, p < 0,001), Idate-Traço (r = -0,70, p < 0,001), SCL-90R Índice de Gravidade Global (r = -0,50, p < 0,001), SCL-90R Total de Sintomas Positivos (r = -0,57, p < 0,001) e todas as subescalas do SCL-90R (r's = -0,54 a -0,21, p's < 0,01). Um modelo de regressão linear múltipla indicou que a CSE (B = 2,77, p < 0,05), a Escala de Autoavaliação da Depressão de Zung (B = -0,53, p < 0,001), o Idate-Estado (B = -0,26, p < 0,05) e o Isel-12 Pertencimento (B = 1,15, p < 0,01) estavam independentemente associados à pontuação no QOL-RA, mesmo quando controlados por associações significativas.Conclusões:Mais sintomas depressivos e de ansiedade estiveram independentemente associados a uma menor QV específica da doença, enquanto a percepção aumentada de ter pessoas com quem fazer atividades (pertencimento, apoio social) e CSE mais elevados estiveram independentemente associados a uma maior QV específica da doença. Os fatores psicossociais impactam na QV na AR acima e além da atividade da doença. É necessária pesquisa adicional acerca dos benefícios da avaliação psicossocial do paciente com AR e da prestação de cuidados abrangentes para melhorar a QV.

ABSTRACTObjective:To examine the relationship between disease-specific quality of life (QOL) and socio-demographic, medical, and psychosocial factors in Colombian patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA).Methods:One hundred and three RA patients recruited from ambulatory centers in Neiva, Colombia were administered the Disease Activity Scale 28 (DAS-28), QOL-RA, Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale, State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), Interpersonal Support Evaluation List-12 (ISEL-12), and Symptom Checklist-90 Revised (SCL-90R).Results:Lower QOL-RA was associated with lower socio-economic status (r = 0.26, p < 0.01), higher likelihood of using opioids (t = -2.51, p< 0.05), higher likelihood of comorbid pulmonary disease (t = -2.22, p < 0.05), and lower ISEL-12 sub-scales (r's = 0.41-0.31, p's < 0.001). Lower QOL-RA was associated with higher DAS-28 (r = -0.28, p < 0.01), Visual Analog Scale (VAS; r = -0.35, p < 0.001), Zung Depression (r = -0.72, p < 0.001), STAI-State (r = -0.66, p < 0.001), STAI-Trait (r = -0.70, p < 0.001), SCL-90R Global Severity Index (r = -0.50, p < 0.001), SCL-90R Positive Symptom Total (r = -0.57, p < 0.001), and all SCL-90R sub-scales (r's = -0.54 to -0.21, p's < 0.01). A multivariate linear regression model indicated that SES (B = 2.77, p < 0.05), Zung Depression (B = -0.53, p < 0.001), STAI-State (B = -0.26, p < 0.05), and ISEL-12 Belonging (B = 1.15, p< 0.01) were independently associated with QOL-RA, controlling for significant associations.Conclusions:More depressive and anxiety symptoms were independently associated with lower disease-specific QOL, while higher perceptions of having people to do activities with (belonging social support) and higher SES were independently associated with higher disease-specific quality of life. Psychosocial factors impact QOL in RA above and beyond disease activity. Additional research into the benefits of psychosocial assessment of RA patients and provision of comprehensive care to improve QOL is warranted.

Análise da associação da fadiga com variáveis clínicas e psicológicas em uma série de 371 pacientes brasileiros com artrite reumatoide / Analysis of the association of fatigue with clinical and psychological variables in a series of 371 Brazilian patients with rheumatoid arthritis

Objetivos: A fadiga é um sintoma altamente subjetivo e extremamente comum em pacientes com artrite reumatoide, embora seja difícil de caracterizar e definir. O objetivo desse estudo foi avaliar a fadiga em uma coorte de pacientes brasileiros e analisar a relação entre fadiga e variáveis específicas da doença. Métodos: Foram prospectivamente investigados 371 pacientes brasileiros diagnosticados com artrite reumatoide, de acordo com os critérios de classificação do Colégio Americano de Reumatologia de 1987. Dados demográficos, clínicos e laboratoriais foram obtidos dos registros clínicos. Foram registrados o número de articulações dolorosas, índice de massa corporal, duração da doença, qualidade de vida, capacidade funcional, ansiedade e depressão. A fadiga foi avaliada com o uso da subescala específica da escala Fatigue Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy (FACIT-FATIGUE). Resultados: O escore mediano para fadiga foi 42 (10), negativamente correlacionado com a capacidade funcional (-0,507; p < 0,001), ansiedade e depressão (-0,542 e -0,545; p < 0,001, respectivamente) e predominantemente com o domínio físico do questionário Short Form-36 para qualidade de vida (SF-36P: 0,584; p < 0,001). Não houve correlação entre os escores e a velocidade de sedimentação das hemácias (-0,118; p <0,05), proteína C reativa (-0,089; p < 0,05), atividade da doença (-0,250;p < 0,001) ou número de articulações dolorosas (-0,135; p < 0,01). Para todas as medidas foi aplicado um intervalo de confiança de 95%. Conclusões: Nesta série de pacientes brasileiros com artrite reumatoide, sugerimos um novo significado para as queixas de fadiga como um parâmetro independente não relacionado com o número de articulações ...

Objectives: Fatigue is a highly subjective and extremely common symptom in patients with rheumatoid arthritis although it is difficult to characterize and define. The aim of this study was to assess fatigue in a cohort of Brazilian patients, and to analyze the relationship between fatigue and disease-specific variables. Methods: 371 Brazilian patients diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis according to the 1987 American College of Rheumatology classification criteria were prospectively investigated. Demographic, clinical and laboratorial data were obtained from hospitals records. The number of painful joints, bone mass index, disease duration, quality of life, functional capacity, anxiety and depression were recorded. Fatigue was evaluated using the subscale of Fatigue Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy (FACIT-FATIGUE scale). Results: The median fatigue score was 42.0 (10.0), negatively correlated with functional capacity (-0.507; P < 0.001), anxiety and depression (-0.542 and -0.545; P < 0.001 respectively), and predominantly with physical domain of Short Form 36-item quality of life questionnaire (SF-36P: 0.584; P < 0.001). The scores were not associated with the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (-0.118; P < 0.05), C-reactive protein (-0.089; P < 0.05), disease activity (-0.250; P < 0.001) or the number of painful joints (-0.135; P < 0.01). Confidence interval of 95% was applied for all measures. Conclusions: In this series of Brazilian patients with rheumatoid arthritis, we suggest a new significance for fatigue complains as an independent parameter not related with number of painful joints, disease or inflammatory activity scores. Psychological and functional impairments appear to be more related to fatigue. Additional studies and inclusion of standard measures for monitoring fatigue complains are required. .

Caracterização funcional de idosos com artrite reumatóide / Functional characterization of elderly with rheumatoid arthritis

A artrite reumatóide (AR) é uma das principais causas de incapacidades em idosos, pois suas deformidades geram dificuldades para as atividades cotidianas. Assim, fazem-se necessários estudos que avaliem em que medida ela interfere na capacidade funcional e como essa população minimiza seus efeitos. Com este propósito, foi conduzido estudo em um Hospital Escola da Cidade de São Paulo, em 2008 para caracterização funcional de idosos com esse problema. Participaram da pesquisa 12 pessoas com AR, com pelo menos sessenta anos, que deambulavam, apresentavam comprometimento de mão e punho e estavam em seguimento clínico com reumatologista. Utilizou-se o Mini-Exame do Estado Mental (Folstein, 1975) para inclusão no estudo. Para a caracterização sócio-demográfica e funcional foram utilizados os seguintes instrumentos: Classificação de Idosos quanto à Capacidade para o Autocuidado (Almeida, 2003), Escala Numérica Verbal (Andrade et al, 2006), goniômetro e dinamômetro computadorizados. Os resultados apontam para o comprometimento da capacidade funcional e escassez de respostas de enfrentamento a esta condição. Os participantes apontaram dificuldades para em média 5,6 atividades, sendo que 100% possuía dificuldades físicas para duas ou mais atividades. Em média houve redução da força de preensão palmar e pinça, e da amplitude de movimento. Práticas de autocuidado foram adotadas para somente 36,7% do total de suas atividades diárias. Considerando-se a cronicidade da AR e o próprio envelhecimento, a tendência é que este quadro piore. Dessa forma, evidencia-se a necessidade de serviços de saúde que tenham infraestrutura para manter ou melhorar a capacidade funcional de idosos, visando sua independência e participação social.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is one of the major causes of incapacity among elderly people because its deformities makes daily activities more difficult. Studies to evaluate how much this pathology interferes in functional capacity and elderly deal with it are necessary. For this purpose, a study was taken in a School Hospital in São Paulo, in 2008, to characterize functionally elderly of this problem. Twelve people with RA joined the survey, they were 60 years old or older, walkers, with impairment in hand and wrist and following with rheumatologist. The Mini-Mental Test (FOLSTEIN et al., 1975) was applied as inclusion criteria. The evaluation protocols used for functional, demographic and social issues were: Elderly Classification of capacity for self care (ALMEIDA, 2003), Verbal numerical scale (ANDRADE; PEREIRA e SOUZA, 2006), computerized goniometer and dynamometer. The results show functional capacity impairmentsand lack of answers to overcome this condition. The participants named difficulty in average for 5,6 activities, being that 100% showed physical incapacity during performing 2 or more activities. In average, there were reduction of pinch and grip strength, and range of motion of the hands. Self care strategies were related to only 36,7% of the total daily activities. Once RA is a chronic disease and aging is a continuous process, the tendency is that the difficulties during daily activities will increase among the years. So, health care providers need to have framework to keep or improve functional capacity of elderly, to enhance they’re independency and social participation.

Factores que influyen en el bienestar psicológico de pacientes con artritis reumatoide / Factors influencing in psychological wellbeing of patients with rheumatoid arthritis

Introducción: los pacientes con artritis reumatoide pueden tener afectado su bienestar psicológico. Objetivos: evaluar el bienestar psicológico de pacientes con artritis reumatoide y conocer variables asociadas a su deterioro. Métodos: se realizó un estudio observacional descriptivo, de corte transversal, que incluyó 180 pacientes de la consulta de protocolo de artritis reumatoide atendidos desde junio de 2006 hasta mayo de 2008. Se obtuvieron datos demográficos, clínicos y de laboratorio. Se evaluó índice de actividad, capacidad funcional y bienestar psicológico y se determinaron las asociaciones existentes entre ellos. Resultados: el bienestar psicológico estuvo más afectado en pacientes mayores de 60 años, sexo femenino y nivel de escolaridad primario; las variables más afectadas fueron la satisfacción sexual y la laboral. El tiempo de evolución mayor de 10 años mostró diferencias en la satisfacción laboral (p=0,027) y la satisfacción sexual (p=0,043). El grado de actividad de la enfermedad y la positividad del factor reumatoide no se asociaron con el bienestar psicológico. La capacidad funcional se correlacionó de forma negativa con casi todas las variables del bienestar psicológico y se asoció significativamente en varios de los aspectos, tanto por la satisfacción como por el componente afectivo y el índice general del bienestar. Conclusiones: el bienestar psicológico en pacientes con artritis reumatoide se encuentra afectado y se asocia de forma significativa con el grado de discapacidad funcional...

Introduction: the patients presenting with rheumatoid arthritis may to be involved its psychological wellbeing. Objectives: to assess the psychological wellbeing of patients presenting with rheumatoid arthritis and to know the variables associated with its deterioration. Methods: a cross-sectional, descriptive and observational study was conducted including 180 patients from the protocol consultation of rheumatoid arthritis seen from June, 2006 to May, 2008. The demographic, clinical and of laboratory data were obtained. The activity, functional ability and psychological wellbeing were assessed determining the associations among them. Results: the psychological wellbeing was more involved in patients aged over 60, the female sex and the primary schooling level, the more involved variables were the sexual satisfaction and the working one. The greatest course time above 10 years showed differences in working satisfaction (p=0,027) and the sexual one (p=0,043). The disease activity degree and the positive rheumatoid factor were not associated with the psychological wellbeing. The functional ability was negatively correlated with almost all variables of psychological wellbeing and was significantly associated in some features, as much as the satisfaction as the emotional component and the general rate of wellbeing. Conclusions: the psychological wellbeing in patients presenting with rheumatoid arthritis is involved and it is significantly associated with the functional inability degree...

Depressive symptoms in rheumatoid arthritis / Sintomas depressivos em pacientes com artrite reumatoide

OBJECTIVE: To determine the prevalence of depressive and anxiety symptoms in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (a chronic inflammatory disease) in comparison to a control group with osteoarthritis (a chronic non-inflammatory degenerative disease) and to identify the sociodemographic and clinical variables associated with depressive symptoms in these patients. METHOD: Sixty-two rheumatoid arthritis patients and 60 osteoarthritis patients participated in the study. Sociodemographic and clinical data were collected and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and the Disability Index of the Health Assessment Questionnaire were applied. RESULTS: The prevalence of depressive symptoms was of 53.2 percent in rheumatoid arthritis and 28.3 percent in osteoarthritis (p = 0.005). The prevalence of anxiety symptoms was of 48.4 percent in rheumatoid arthritis and 50.0 percent in osteoarthritis (p = 0.859). The mean (and standard deviation) scores in the Disability Index of the Health Assessment Questionnaire were 1.4 (0.8) in rheumatoid arthritis and 1.4 (0.6) in osteoarthritis (p = 0.864). Rheumatoid arthritis patients with depressive symptoms had lower education and higher disease activity and functional disability. CONCLUSION: Although these two rheumatic diseases are similar in terms of the pain and functional disability that they cause, a significantly higher prevalence of depressive symptoms was found in rheumatoid arthritis patients. This difference might be explained by the hypothesis of a neuroimmunobiological mechanism related to cytokines in inflammatory diseases, which has been considered as a candidate to the development of depressive symptoms.

OBJETIVO: Determinar a prevalência de sintomas depressivos e ansiosos na artrite reumatóide (doença inflamatória crônica) em comparação com um grupo controle com osteoartrite (doença crônico-degenerativa não inflamatória). Identificar variáveis sociodemográficas e clínicas associadas a sintomas depressivos nesses pacientes. MÉTODO: Participaram do estudo 62 pacientes com artrite reumatóide e 60 pacientes com osteoartrite. Foram coletados dados sociodemográficos e clínicos e foram aplicadas as escalas Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale e Disability Index of the Health Assessment Questionnaire. RESULTADOS: A prevalência dos sintomas depressivos foi 53,2 por cento na artrite reumatóide e 28,3 por cento na osteoartrite (p = 0,005). A prevalência dos sintomas ansiosos foi 48,4 por cento na artrite reumatóide e 50,0 por cento na osteoartrite (p = 0,859). Os valores médios (desvio padrão) de Disability Index of the Health Assessment Questionnaire foram 1,4 (0,8) na artrite reumatóide e 1,4 (0,6) na osteoartrite (p = 0,864). Pacientes com artrite reumatóide e sintomas depressivos apresentaram menor nível educacional e maiores níveis de atividade da doença e incapacidade funcional. CONCLUSÃO: Embora ambas as doenças reumatológicas sejam similares em termos de dor e incapacidade funcional, uma prevalência significativamente maior de sintomas depressivos na artrite reumatóide foi encontrada. Essa diferença poderia ser explicada por meio da hipótese de um mecanismo neuroimunobiológico relacionado às citocinas nas doenças inflamatórias, o qual vem sendo considerado candidato para o desenvolvimento de sintomas depressivos.

O questionário SF-6D Brasil: modelos de construção e aplicações em economia da saúde / The SF-6D Brazil: construction models and applications in health economics

OBJETIVO: Comparar as medidas de preferência derivadas do SF-36 a partir das duas versões brasileiras do questionário Short-Form 6 Dimensions - Brasil (SF-6D Brasil). MÉTODOS: Estudo observacional e transversal. Foram aplicados os instrumentos de avaliação de qualidade de vida: HAQ, SF-36, EQ-5D e SF-6D (versão de 1998 e 2002). Estatísticas descritivas e coeficientes de correlação foram usados para a análise dos dados. RESULTADOS: Foram avaliados 200 pacientes portadores de artrite reumatoide, com média de idade de 49,22 anos, tempo medido de doença de 11,16 anos e HAQ médio de 1,02. As preferências mensuradas pelas duas versões do SF-6D e pelo EQ-5D apresentaram correlações significativas entre si com coeficientes de Pearson variando de 0,59 a 0,88 (p<0,01). CONCLUSÃO: A versão mais atual do SF-6D, baseada no modelo de 2002, apresenta-se válida quando comparada com a versão inicialmente validada para o Brasil e representa uma opção de questionário para a avaliação de preferências em análises econômicas realizadas em nosso meio.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the preference measurements of the SF-36, derived from two Brazilian versions of the questionnaire Short Form 6 Dimensions - Brazil (SF-6D Brazil). METHODS: Cross-sectional study. We applied the tools to assess quality of life: HAQ, SF-36, EQ-5D and SF-6D (version 1998 and 2002). Descriptive statistics and correlation coefficients were used for data analysis. RESULTS: We studied 200 patients with rheumatoid arthritis, with a mean age of 49.22 years, 11.16 years of disease and mean HAQ 1.02. Preferences measured by the two versions of the SF-6D and the EQ-5D showed significant correlations between each other, with Pearson coefficients ranging from 0.59 to 0.88 (p <0.01). CONCLUSION: The latest version of the SF-6D based on the model 2002 is presented as a valid measurement when compared to the originally validated questionnaire in Brazil and represents an option for assessing preferences for economic analyses conducted in this country.

Rheumatoid Arthritis: Phenomenology, Personality Profile, Stress and their Inter-Relationship.

The purpose of this study was to study the psychiatric morbidity of Rheumatoid Arthritis and to look for an association between disease parameters and personality dimensions of Rheumatoid Arthritis patients. Methods: 40 patients were selected from Rheumatoid Clinic of P.B.M.Hospital,Bikaner as per Association of Rheumatoid Arthritis (A.R.A.) revised criteria. The ICD-10 Module of International Personality Disorder Examination (IPDE),Social And Occupational Functioning Assessment Scale (SOFAS),Hamilton’s Rating Scale for depression(HAM-D),Presumptive Stressful Life Events Scale(PSLE) were administered to these patients .Bivariate statistical methods were used to find association between illness variables and psychological dimensions. Group differences were analyzed by students T-test and ANOVA. Results: Rheumatoid Arthritis patients with psychiatric morbidity showed higher R.A. severity (p<0.02), swan neck and valgus deformity (p< 0.05), more number of joints involved (p<0.01), smaller joints (metacarpo-phalangeal and inter-phalangeal) involvement (p<0.05), presence of C - reactive protein in blood samples (p<0.01). Majority of patients who had personality psychopathology also reported stress in preceding one year period. Personality level psychopathology either alone or in combination is present in 17 patients that is 42.5 % of the sample. Patients with single personality trait psychopathology were better in comparison to severe personality psychopathology in terms of number of joints involved, joint deformities, social and occupational functioning and psychiatric morbidity. Conclusion: Preliminary findings suggest that the severity of Rheumatoid Articles correlates with psychiatric morbidity.

Dissociative Disorder in Rheumatoid Arthritis –A Case Report.

A rare association of dissociative disorder with rheumatoid arthritis is described.

Effects of depression and anxiety on quality of life of patients with rheumatoid arthritis, knee osteoarthritis and fibromyalgia syndrome / Efectos de la depresión y la ansiedad sobre la calidad de los pacientes con artritis reumatoide, osteoartritis de la rodilla y síndrome de fibromialgia

OBJECTIVE: To measure the effects of depression and anxiety on quality of life (QoL) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), knee osteoarthritis (OA) and fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS). METHODS: One hundred and fifty-four patients with RA, knee OA, and FMS who presented to the physical medicine and rehabilitation department were studied. For evaluation of the patients, Beck depression scale, Beck anxiety scale, and Short Form-36 were used. RESULTS: Twenty-two per cent of patients (n = 34) were diagnosed with of RA, 52.6% (n = 81) knee OA and 25.3% (n = 39) FMS. Except for the subscales, of physical and emotional role, there were statistically significant differences among diagnostic groups in the rest of the SF-36 subscales. In the physical functioning subscale, the highest score was obtained in the fibromyalgia group and the lowest in the RA group (p < 0.001). However, in the bodily pain subscale, the lowest score was recorded in the fibromyalgia group (p = 0.019). In all diagnostic groups, the scores of SF-36 subscales were significantly low in patients who scored above the threshold value of Beck depression scale (p < 0. 001). A strong negative correlation was detected between scores of Beck anxiety scale and the scores of all SF36 subscales in patients with RA and knee OA. On the other hand, in patients with FMS, anxiety scores correlated negatively with only physical and somatic function scores of SF-36. CONCLUSION: Quality of life is significantly low in patients with RA, knee OA and FMS, whose depression and/or anxiety scores are high. Therefore, these patients should be managed using a multidisciplinary approach including psychiatric support.

OBJETIVO: Medir los efectos de la depresión y la ansiedad sobre la calidad de vida (CdV) en pacientes con artritis reumatoide (AR), osteoartritis de la rodilla (OA) y síndrome de fibromialgia (SFM). MÉTODOS: Se estudiaron ciento cincuenta y cuatro pacientes con RA, OA de la rodilla, y, que acudieron al departamento de medicina física y rehabilitación. Para la evaluación de los pacientes se utilizaron la escala de depresión de Beck, la escala de ansiedad de Beck, y el cuestionario de salud SF-3. RESULTADOS: Al veintidós por ciento de los pacientes (n = 34) se les diagnosticó RA, al 52.6% (n = 81) OA de la rodilla, y al 25.3% (n = 39) SFM. Excepto para las subescalas del rol físico y emocional, hubo diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre los grupos diagnósticos en el resto de las subescalas del cuestionario SF-36. En la subescala del funcionamiento físico, la puntuación más alta se obtuvo en el grupo de fibromialgia y la más baja en el de RA (p < 0.001). Sin embargo, en la subescala de dolor corporal, la puntuación más baja se registró en el grupo de fibromialgia (p = 0.019). En todos los grupos diagnósticos, las puntuaciones de las subescalas del cuestionario fueron significativamente más bajas en los pacientes que obtuvieron puntos por encima del valor umbral de la escala de depresión de Beck (p < 0.001). Una fuerte correlación negativa fue detectada entre las puntuaciones de la escala de ansiedad de Beck y las puntuaciones de todas las subescalas del cuestionario SF-36 en pacientes con RA y OA de la rodilla. Por otro lado, en pacientes con SF, las puntuaciones de ansiedad tuvieron una correlación negativa con solo puntuaciones de función física y somática de SF-36. CONCLUSIÓN: La calidad de vida es significativamente mas baja en pacientes con RAD, OA de la rodilla y SFM, cuyas puntuaciones de depresión y/o ansiedad son elevadas. Por lo tanto, estos pacientes deben de ser tratados haciendo uso de enfoques multidisciplinarios, incluyendo apoyo...

Nivel de conocimiento de los pacientes con artritis reumatoide acerca de su enfermedad y tratamiento / Knowledge about their disease and treatment among patients with rheumatoid arthritis

Background:The transfer of information in the physician-patient relationship is important, especially in chronic diseases such as Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), since it influences the perception and behavior that the patient has about his or her illness. Aim: To evaluate the level of knowledge and concern of their illness and treatment and their relationship with functional disability, perception of the pain and global assessment of disease activity, in patients with RA. Patients and Methods: Cross sectional study of 104 patients (mean age 56 years, 100 women) with RA. Demographic and clinical variables were registered. The knowledge about their illness and requirement of further information and concern about aspects of the illness and treatment, were assessed. Physical functioning was measured using the Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ). A visual analogue (VAS) and Likert scales were used for a global assessment of disease activity. Results: Sixty percent of patients had only primary school studies. The median evolution of the illness was 14 years. Ninety eight percent knew their diagnosis and 91 percent required further information. There was a high degree of concern about the disease and treatment. The average HAQ score was 0.9. There was a statistically significant relationship between HAQ score and pain VAS (r =0.41, p <0.01). There was a moderate agreement between the global assessment of disease activity made by patients and physicians (Kappa =0.499; p =0.000). Conclusions: Even though patients with RA are informed about their disease, they require further information. Their highest concern is about the functional consequences of RA and they perceive a higher activity of the disease than their treating physicians.

Efectividad de una Intervención Educativa en Pacientes con Artritis Reumatoide. Hospital Universidad del Norte. Barranquilla. Abril-Mayo de 2005 / Effectiveness of an education program in patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis

Objetivos: determinar la efectividad de una intervención en pacientes con Artritis Reumatoide que asisten a la consulta externa del Hospital Universidad del Norte (HUN) de la ciudad de Barranquilla. Materiales y Métodos: estudio cuasi experimental de antes -después, que consistió en el diseño, aplicación y evaluación de una intervención educativa. La población objeto de estudio fue de diecinueve pacientes que asistían a la consulta reumatológica del HUN y cumplieron con los criterios de inclusión y exclusión. La intervención tuvo una duración total de nueve horas y en ella se manejaron aspectos relevantes sobre la enfermedad, haciendo énfasis en el automanejo. La información fue recolectada antes de la intervención y después de esta, mediante la aplicación de test autodiligenciados destinados a evaluar cada una de las variables de estudio, tales como: conocimiento acerca de la enfermedad, calidad de vida, dolor, estado general de salud y categorizó la población por variables sociodemográficas y características de la enfermedad. Resultados: el 89,5 por ciento de los pacientes eran mujeres, con una media de edad de 53,1 1 años más o menos 18,21. La duración de la artritis fue de 4,68 años más o menos 3,36. Se encontró asociación significativa entre la intervención educativa y mejoría en el conocimiento acerca de la enfermedad (p = 0,00), función física (p = 0,05) y rol físico (p = 0,018). No se encontró asociación significativa entre la intervención y la mejoría del dolor, estado general de salud y estado funcional de la persona. Conclusiones: la educación mejora el conocimiento acerca de la enfermedad, la función física...