Update of the guidelines for the pharmacological treatment of rheumatoid arthritis by the Mexican College of Rheumatology 2023.

OBJECTIVE: To develop updated guidelines for the pharmacological management of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). METHODS: A group of experts representative of different geographical regions and various medical services catering to the Mexican population with RA was formed. Questions based on Population, Intervention, Comparison, and Outcome (PICO) were developed, deemed clinically relevant. These questions were answered based on the results of a recent systematic literature review (SLR), and the evidence's validity was assessed using the GRADE system, considered a standard for these purposes. Subsequently, the expert group reached consensus on the direction and strength of recommendations through a multi-stage voting process. RESULTS: The updated guidelines for RA treatment stratify various therapeutic options, including different classes of DMARDs (conventional, biologicals, and JAK inhibitors), as well as NSAIDs, glucocorticoids, and analgesics. By consensus, it establishes the use of these in different subpopulations of interest among RA patients and addresses aspects related to vaccination, COVID-19, surgery, pregnancy and lactation, and others. CONCLUSIONS: This update of the Mexican guidelines for the pharmacological treatment of RA provides reference points for evidence-based decision-making, recommending patient participation in joint decision-making to achieve the greatest benefit for our patients. It also establishes recommendations for managing a variety of relevant conditions affecting our patients.

Self-perceived knowledge level of epidemic management in medical residents prior to the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in Mexico.

INTRODUCTION: COVID-19 was declared a pandemic in March 2020, requiring a comprehensive response from all healthcare systems, including Mexico's. As medical residents' training did not involve epidemic response, we decided to evaluate their level of training on this subject, specifically self-perceived knowledge level and capacity to respond to epidemiological crises. METHODOLOGY: Medical residents from two hospitals belonging to PEMEX (Mexico's state-owned petroleum company) were included in a cross-sectional study. All participants answered a modified version of the survey developed by the University of Lovaina's Center for Research and Education in Emergency Care. Participants were analyzed according to their relevant "clinical" or "surgical" residency tracks. Data were analyzed using through Chi-square tests, t-tests, Mann-Whitney U tests, Kruskal-Wallis tests, and Pearson and Spearman correlation coefficients with significance established at p < 0.05. RESULTS: Of a total of 94 resident participants in this study, 56.7% self-perceived themselves as being poorly prepared to confront the pandemic. Only 25.5% of the participants referred previous experience in medical responses to public health emergencies, and only 35.1% reported ever receiving education on this topic. CONCLUSIONS: Medical residents-who have been involved with caring for victims of the pandemic-are under the general perception that they are not prepared, experienced, or educated enough to respond to such a widespread massive public health emergency.

Comorbidity burden in terms of disability in patients with osteoarthritis in Mexico. The IMPACTAR registry.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the comorbidities associated with disability in patients with OA in Mexico (2013-2015). MATERIAL AND METHODS: A cross-sectional, retrospective and multicentre IMPACTAR study (n=7703) in Mexican patients (2013-2015). Comorbidities associated with disability were identified in 4971 patients diagnosed with OA from the IMPACTAR registry (n=7073). An adjusted logistic regression analysis was carried out by demographic, economic, clinical and medical variables. RESULTS: Mean age was 63 years; and 75% of the patients were women. Subjects with OA and presence of comorbidities are 42% more likely to develop disabilities than patients without associated comorbidity, considering age, sex, family income, OA diagnosis duration, and education level. The highest rate of people with disability (28.9%) was concentrated in Region 7, which corresponds to Mexico City. There are also significant differences between median family incomes, when the income of persons with disability is under $13 000 (IQR: 9000-16 000) Mexican pesos, compared to patients without disability. Almost half of the subjects (49.6%) reported having at least one comorbidity. Arterial hypertension was the risk factor with a statistically significant difference (32.8%) among those with disability (34.7%). CONCLUSIONS: Programs and interventions for OA patients should take into consideration comorbidity factors, being female, family income, and the region of residence as variables that may increase the possibility of developing an OA-associated disability.

Comorbidity burden in terms of disability in patients with osteoarthritis in Mexico. The IMPACTAR registry / Carga de comorbilidad en términos de discapacidad en pacientes con osteoartritis en México. El registro IMPACTAR

Objective. To determine the comorbidities associated with disability in patients with OA in Mexico (2013–2015). Material and methods: A cross-sectional, retrospective and multicentre IMPACTAR study (n=7703) in Mexican patients (2013–2015). Comorbidities associated with disability were identified in 4971 patients diagnosed with OA from the IMPACTAR registry (n=7073). An adjusted logistic regression analysis was carried out by demographic, economic, clinical and medical variables. Results: Mean age was 63 years; and 75% of the patients were women. Subjects with OA and presence of comorbidities are 42% more likely to develop disabilities than patients without associated comorbidity, considering age, sex, family income, OA diagnosis duration, and education level. The highest rate of people with disability (28.9%) was concentrated in Region 7, which corresponds to Mexico City. There are also significant differences between median family incomes, when the income of persons with disability is under $13 000 (IQR: 9000–16 000) Mexican pesos, compared to patients without disability. Almost half of the subjects (49.6%) reported having at least one comorbidity. Arterial hypertension was the risk factor with a statistically significant difference (32.8%) among those with disability (34.7%). Conclusions: Programs and interventions for OA patients should take into consideration comorbidity factors, being female, family income, and the region of residence as variables that may increase the possibility of developing an OA-associated disability.(AU)

Objetivo: Determinar las comorbilidades asociadas a la incapacidad en pacientes con osteoartritis (OA) en México (2013-2015). Material y métodos: Estudio IMPACTAR transversal, retrospectivo y multicéntrico (n=7.703) en pacientes mejicanos (2013-2015). Se identificaron las comorbilidades asociadas a la incapacidad en 4.971 pacientes diagnosticados de OA en el registro IMPACTAR (n=7.073). Se realizó un análisis de regresión logística ajustada por variables demográfica, económica, clínica y médica. Resultados: La edad media fue de 63 años, y el 75% de los pacientes eran mujeres. Los sujetos con OA y la presencia de comorbilidades tienen un 42% mayor de probabilidad de desarrollar incapacidades que los pacientes sin comorbilidad asociada, considerando la edad, el sexo familia, los ingresos, la duración del diagnóstico de OA y el nivel educativo. La tasa poblacional con mayor tasa de incapacidad (28,9%) se concentró en la Región 7, que corresponde a Ciudad de México. También existieron diferencias significativas entre los ingresos familiares medios, cuando la renta de las personas con incapacidad se sitúa por debajo de los 13.000$ (RIC: 9.000-16.000) pesos mejicanos, en comparación con los pacientes sin incapacidad. Casi la mitad de los sujetos (49,6%) reportaron tener al menos una comorbilidad. La hipertensión arterial fue el factor de riesgo con diferencia estadísticamente significativa (32,8%) entre aquellas personas con incapacidad (34,7%). Conclusiones: Los programas e intervenciones para pacientes con OA deberían considerar los factores de comorbilidad tales como sexo femenino, ingresos familiares y región de residencia como variables que podrían incrementar la posibilidad de desarrollar una incapacidad asociada a OA.(AU)

Chronic viral hepatitis C micro-elimination program using telemedicine. The Mexican experience.

In response to the kind letter from Joaquín Cabezas et al., we agree that medical care in the COVID era has radically changed and using new mechanisms in the care of different diseases is undoubtedly now a priority to avoid contagion of both the patient and the medical staff. Although a vaccine could protect the population, there are still many questions to answer. The model we use for the care of patients with a diagnosis of hepatitis C virus (HCV) in Mexico showed great benefits, as in other studies.

El papel de los estudiantes de medicina en las pandemias / The role of medical students in pandemics

Resumen Existe la percepción general de que los estudiantes de medicina deben ayudar en caso de situaciones de desastre o en contingencias epidemiológicas; aunque es posible que no hayan sido debidamente educados para hacerlo. En últimas fechas, la participación de estudiantes es importante en actividades de capacitación de personal, triage, atención de actividades burocráticas, voluntariado; pero no son considerados como una primera línea de atención en los sitios de desastre o de manejo de pacientes. Se revisa en la literatura médica la percepción de la participación de los estudiantes de medicina en desastres y pandemias y se establecen algunas de las necesidades para su capacitación y enseñanza, para que realmente puedan convertirse en una opción en los momentos de crisis.

Abstract There is a general perception that medical students should help in case of disaster situations or epidemiological contingencies; although, they may not have been properly educated to do so. In recent dates, the participation of students is important in staff training activities, triage, care of bureaucratic activities, volunteering; but they are not considered a first line of care at disaster sites or patient management. The perception of the participation of medical students in disasters and pandemics is reviewed in the literature and some of the needs for their training and teaching are established, so that they can truly become an option in times of crisis.

Comorbidity burden in terms of disability in patients with osteoarthritis in Mexico. The IMPACTAR registry.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the comorbidities associated with disability in patients with OA in Mexico (2013-2015). MATERIAL AND METHODS: A cross-sectional, retrospective and multicentre IMPACTAR study (n=7703) in Mexican patients (2013-2015). Comorbidities associated with disability were identified in 4971 patients diagnosed with OA from the IMPACTAR registry (n=7073). An adjusted logistic regression analysis was carried out by demographic, economic, clinical and medical variables. RESULTS: Mean age was 63 years; and 75% of the patients were women. Subjects with OA and presence of comorbidities are 42% more likely to develop disabilities than patients without associated comorbidity, considering age, sex, family income, OA diagnosis duration, and education level. The highest rate of people with disability (28.9%) was concentrated in Region 7, which corresponds to Mexico City. There are also significant differences between median family incomes, when the income of persons with disability is under $13 000 (IQR: 9000-16 000) Mexican pesos, compared to patients without disability. Almost half of the subjects (49.6%) reported having at least one comorbidity. Arterial hypertension was the risk factor with a statistically significant difference (32.8%) among those with disability (34.7%). CONCLUSIONS: Programs and interventions for OA patients should take into consideration comorbidity factors, being female, family income, and the region of residence as variables that may increase the possibility of developing an OA-associated disability.

[The role of medical students in pandemics]. / El papel de los estudiantes de medicina en las pandemias.

There is a general perception that medical students should help in case of disaster situations or epidemiological contingencies; although, they may not have been properly educated to do so. In recent dates, the participation of students is important in staff training activities, triage, care of bureaucratic activities, volunteering; but they are not considered a first line of care at disaster sites or patient management. The perception of the participation of medical students in disasters and pandemics is reviewed in the literature and some of the needs for their training and teaching are established, so that they can truly become an option in times of crisis.

Evaluation of medical ethics competencies in rheumatology: local experience during national accreditation process.

INTRODUCTION: Rheumatologists are the primary healthcare professionals responsible for patients with rheumatic diseases and should acquire medical ethical competencies, such as the informed consent process (ICP). The objective clinical structured examination is a valuable tool for assessing clinical competencies. We report the performance of 90 rheumatologist trainees participating in a station designed to evaluate the ICP during the 2018 and 2019 national accreditations. METHODS: The station was validated and represented a medical encounter in which the rheumatologist informed a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus with clinically active nephritis about renal biopsy. A trained patient-actor and an evaluator were instructed to assess ICP skills (with a focus on kidney biopsy benefits, how the biopsy is done and potential complications) in obtaining formal informed consent, delivering bad news and overall communication with patients. The evaluator used a tailored checklist and form. RESULTS: Candidate performance varied with ICP content and was superior for potential benefit information (achieved by 98.9% of the candidates) but significantly reduced for potential complications (37.8%) and biopsy description (42.2%). Only 17.8% of the candidates mentioned the legal perspective of ICP. Death (as a potential complication) was omitted by the majority of the candidates (93.3%); after the patient-actor challenged candidates, only 57.1% of them gave a clear and positive answer. Evaluators frequently rated candidate communications skills as superior (≥80%), but ≥1 negative aspect was identified in 69% of the candidates. CONCLUSIONS: Ethical competencies are mandatory for professional rheumatologists. It seems necessary to include an ethics competency framework in the curriculum throughout the rheumatology residency.

Dosis acumulada de analgésicos no esteroides relacionada con úlcera péptica hemorrágica y sus complicaciones en una población mexicana / Cumulative dose of non-steroidal analgesics related to hemorrhagic peptic ulcer and complications in a Mexican population

Resumen: OBJETIVO: Evaluar la dosis acumulada ingerida de antiinflamatorios no esteroides (AINEs) en pacientes con úlcera péptica hemorrágica y sus complicaciones durante la hospitalización. MATERIAL Y MÉTODO: Estudio retrospectivo en el que de julio de 2015 a diciembre de 2017 se evaluaron dos grupos: uno con antecedente hospitalario de perforación, resangrado, reintervención endoscópica y muerte y otro sin complicaciones. Se ajustó la dosis ingerida de diferentes AINEs equivalente a 10 mg de ketorolaco; se registró el índice de Charlson, infección por H. pylori y la clasificación endoscópica de Forrest. RESULTADOS: Hubo 156 admisiones de úlcera péptica hemorrágica (edad promedio de 70 años, 53% hombres), las complicaciones ocurrieron en 53 (33.9%), la dosis promedio mensual de AINEs fue de 2121 mg (pacientes con complicaciones) vs 1970 mg (sin complicaciones; p = 0.2). La tasa de AINEs/semana de 7.1 se relacionó con perforación. A todos se les aplicó dosis de omeprazol de 40 mg cada 12 horas vía intravenosa durante la hospitalización. Las complicaciones se correlacionaron con mayor índice de Charlson. Hubo relación entre muerte, factores de riesgo de úlcera péptica por estrés (sepsis, traumatismo, etc.) y la administración de anticoagulantes. El tabaquismo y el género masculino se relacionaron con mayor resangrado. CONCLUSIONES: Existe mayor probabilidad de perforación con necesidad de cirugía, estancia hospitalaria más larga y mayor número de transfusiones con mayor dosis ingerida de AINEs.

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the cumulative dose of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in patients with hemorrhagic peptic ulcer and their complications along hospitalization. MATERIAL AND METHOD: A retrospective study done from July 2015 to December 2017 including two groups: one with a hospitalization history of perforation, rebleeding, endoscopic reintervention and death, another group without complications. We registered doses of different NSAIDs according to 10 mg of ketorolac, Charlson index, H. pylori infection and endoscopic Forrest classification. RESULTS: There were 156 admissions of hemorrhagic peptic ulcer with the administration of NSAIDs (average age 70 years, 53% men), complications occurred in 53 (33.9%). The average monthly dose of NSAID in the cases was 2121 mg vs 1970 mg in controls. The NSAID/week rate of 7.1 was associated with perforation. Charlson index correlated with complications. Death and physiological stress related with the administration of anticoagulants. Smoking and the male gender related to higher rebleeding. CONCLUSIONS: The higher the NSAID/weekly rate, the higher the probability of perforation with the need for surgery, longer hospital stay and increased number of transfusions.

Systematic review and meta-analysis of the efficacy and safety of leflunomide and methotrexate in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis / Revisión sistemática y metaanálisis de la eficacia y la seguridad de leflunomida y metotrexato en el tratamiento de la artritis reumatoide

Objective: To assess the efficacy and side effects of methotrexate and leflunomide in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) as the first disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD). Methods: We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical studies that included patients who took methotrexate, leflunomide, placebo or another DMARD for RA treatment. A systematic review yielded 1971 articles from databases; once completely reviewed, 73 trials that completed inclusion criteria were selected. In structured workshops for discussion and assessment of each article, 6 could be meta-analyzed for the primary and secondary outcomes: achievement of American College of Rheumatology (ACR) 20 and its core set components; and change of serum C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, Health Assessment Questionnaire Disability Index (HAQ-Di), liver enzyme aspartate transaminase/alanine transaminase ratio, new gastrointestinal (GI) side effects and infections. Results: A total of 1984 patients were included: 986 took leflunomide and 998 methotrexate. The probability of achieving ACR 20 had an odds ratio (OR) of 0.88 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.74, 1.06) with a trend toward favoring methotrexate; reduction of the swollen joint count was greater for methotrexate: mean difference=0.82 (95%CI 0.24, 1.39); tender joint count, physician global assessment, HAQ-Di, and serum CRP levels revealed no significant difference between groups. Increased liver enzymes were more frequent in the leflunomide group, OR=0.38 (95%CI 0.27, 0.53), and new GI complaints were more common with methotrexate (OR=1.44; 95%CI 1.17, 1.79). There was no difference in the incidence of non-severe infections. Conclusion: Leflunomide used as the first DMARD in RA seemed to be as efficacious as methotrexate; only the reduction of swollen joint count was more marked for methotrexate. Leflunomide was linked to a greater increase in liver enzymes, but there were fewer GI complaints

Objetivo: Evaluar la eficacia y los efectos secundarios del metotrexato o la leflunomida en pacientes con AR como primer fármaco modificador de la enfermedad (FAME). Métodos: Se realizó una revisión sistemática y metaanálisis de estudios clínicos que incluyeron a pacientes que tomaron metotrexato, leflunomida, placebo u otro FAME para el tratamiento de la AR. Después de una revisión sistemática, se encontraron 1.971 artículos, una vez revisados completamente, se seleccionaron 73 ensayos que completaron los criterios de inclusión. En talleres estructurados para el debate y la evaluación de cada artículo, 6 pudieron ser metaanalizados para los resultados primarios y secundarios: logro de ACR 20 y sus componentes básicos, así como el cambio de los niveles séricos de PCR, HAQ-DI, enzimas hepáticas AST/ALT, nuevos efectos secundarios gastrointestinales (GI) e infecciones. Resultados: Se incluyó a un total de 1.984 pacientes, 986 tomaron leflunomida y 998 metotrexato. La probabilidad de alcanzar ACR 20 reveló una OR 0,88 (IC del 95%: 0,74; 1,06) con una tendencia a favorecer el metotrexato; la reducción del recuento de articulaciones inflamadas fue mayor para metotrexato: diferencia de medias (MD)=0,82 (IC del 95%: 0,24, 1,39); el recuento de articulaciones sensibles, la evaluación global de médicos, el HAQ-DI, y los niveles séricos de PCR no revelaron diferencias entre los grupos. El aumento de las enzimas hepáticas fue más frecuente en el grupo con leflunomida, OR=0,38 (IC del 95%: 0,27, 0,53) y las nuevas quejas GI fueron más frecuentes en el metotrexato, OR=1,44 (IC del 95% 1,17, 1,79). No hubo diferencias en la incidencia de infecciones no graves. Conclusión: La leflunomida utilizada como el primer FAME en la AR parece ser tan eficaz como el metotrexato; solo la reducción de las articulaciones inflamadas fue mayor para el metotrexato. La leflunomida está relacionada con una mayor elevación de las enzimas hepáticas, pero presenta menos molestias GI

The effect of concomitant hand osteoarthritis on pain and disease activity in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

INTRODUCTION: Pain is a core complaint among rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients, and persistent pain requires treatment adjustments according to current strategies. We aimed to quantify the impact of hand osteoarthritis (OA) on health status and residual pain in patients with RA. METHODS: This cross-sectional survey compared RA patients with and without osteoarthritis of the hand. The main outcome was pain intensity. Other measurements included disease activity scores (the Disease Activity Score 28-joints; the Simplified Disease Activity Index, SDAI; the Clinical Disease Activity Index, CDAI), functional disability and self-reported quality of life, and the proportion of patients with residual pain (Patient Acceptable Symptom State, PASS). RESULTS: Eighty-one patients were analyzed, including 39 with RA and OA and 42 with RA only. The patients were mainly women (94%), with a median disease duration of 13 years. This group also reported a higher intensity of pain (visual analogue scale, VAS 70 mm vs. 30 mm; p = 0.003), higher disease activity (3.89 vs. 2.88; p = 0.001), and greater functional disability irrespective of treatment and comorbidities. A strong correlation (r2 = 0.69; p < 0.001) between pain and disease activity was observed, although no differences in pain were observed between groups according to disease activity categories. Patients with RA and OA had a higher proportion of residual pain (59% vs. 29%; p = 0.006) even in the absence of clinical inflammation. CONCLUSION: The coexistence of RA and hand OA is associated with distorted disease activity measurements in RA. Osteoarthritis contributes to persistent pain and greater disability in patients with RA.

Las habilidades de comunicación de los aspirantes a la certificación en Reumatología se asocian con su desempeño en el examen clínico objetivo estructurado / Communication skills in candidates for accreditation in rheumatology are correlated with candidate's performance in the objective structured clinical examination

Introducción: El Consejo Mexicano de Reumatología certifica anualmente reumatólogos mediante una prueba teórica y un examen clínico objetivo estructurado (ECOE). Desde el año 2015, se evalúan las habilidades de comunicación (HC) de los candidatos. Los objetivos fueron comparar las HC evaluadas por el paciente (HCP) y por el médico (HCM) y correlacionarlas con el desempeño de los candidatos en el ECOE. Material y métodos: Durante los años 2015, 2016 y 2017, se evaluaron las HC en las estaciones dinámicas, mediante una escala de Likert aplicada a 8 áreas. Pacientes y evaluadores fueron entrenados cada año para calificar a los aspirantes, lo cual se realizó el día del ECOE, de manera ciega, por ambos. Se calcularon coeficientes de correlación de Pearson. Resultados: En general, a lo largo de los 3años, los candidatos obtuvieron puntajes altos en las HC. Los pacientes puntuaron mejor a los candidatos que los evaluadores médicos. Las HCP y las HCM correlacionaron entre sí (de leve a moderado) en la mayoría de las estaciones. El puntaje de las HC de cada candidato correlacionó con su desempeño en la estación correspondiente; se encontraron mejores correlaciones con las HCP. El promedio de las HC de cada candidato correlacionó con el desempeño global en el ECOE, pero no así con la prueba teórica (salvo en el año 2017, cuando hubo una correlación baja). Conclusiones: Las HC evaluadas durante un examen de certificación en Reumatología correlacionan con el desempeño de cada candidato en cada estación y en el ECOE global

Background: The Mexican Accreditation Council for Rheumatology annually certifies trainees in Rheumatology using a multiple-choice test and an objective structured clinical examination (OSCE). Since 2015, candidate's communication skills (CS) have been rated by both patients and by physician examiners and correlated with results on the OSCE. This study compared the CS from candidates to annual accreditation in Rheumatology as rated by patients and by physician examiners, and assessed whether these correlated with candidate's performance in the OSCE. Material and methods: From 2015 to 2017, 8areas of CS were evaluated using a Likert scale, in each OSCE station that involved a patient. Both patient and physician evaluators were trained annually and their evaluations were performed blindly. The associations were calculated using the Pearson correlation coefficient. Results: In general, candidates were given high CS scores; the scores from patients of the candidate's CS were better than those of physician examiners; within the majority of the stations, both scores were found to correlate moderately. In addition, the scoring of CS correlated with trainee performance at the corresponding OSCE station. Interestingly, better correlations were found when the skills were rated by the patients compared to physician scores. The average CS score was correlated with the overall OSCE performance for each trainee, but not with the multiple-choice test, except in the 2017 accreditation process, when a weak correlation was found. Conclusions: CS assessed during a national accreditation process correlated with the candidate's performance at the station level and with the overall OSCE

Systematic review and meta-analysis of the efficacy and safety of leflunomide and methotrexate in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the efficacy and side effects of methotrexate and leflunomide in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) as the first disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD). METHODS: We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical studies that included patients who took methotrexate, leflunomide, placebo or another DMARD for RA treatment. A systematic review yielded 1971 articles from databases; once completely reviewed, 73 trials that completed inclusion criteria were selected. In structured workshops for discussion and assessment of each article, 6 could be meta-analyzed for the primary and secondary outcomes: achievement of American College of Rheumatology (ACR) 20 and its core set components; and change of serum C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, Health Assessment Questionnaire Disability Index (HAQ-Di), liver enzyme aspartate transaminase/alanine transaminase ratio, new gastrointestinal (GI) side effects and infections. RESULTS: A total of 1984 patients were included: 986 took leflunomide and 998 methotrexate. The probability of achieving ACR 20 had an odds ratio (OR) of 0.88 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.74, 1.06) with a trend toward favoring methotrexate; reduction of the swollen joint count was greater for methotrexate: mean difference=0.82 (95%CI 0.24, 1.39); tender joint count, physician global assessment, HAQ-Di, and serum CRP levels revealed no significant difference between groups. Increased liver enzymes were more frequent in the leflunomide group, OR=0.38 (95%CI 0.27, 0.53), and new GI complaints were more common with methotrexate (OR=1.44; 95%CI 1.17, 1.79). There was no difference in the incidence of non-severe infections. CONCLUSION: Leflunomide used as the first DMARD in RA seemed to be as efficacious as methotrexate; only the reduction of swollen joint count was more marked for methotrexate. Leflunomide was linked to a greater increase in liver enzymes, but there were fewer GI complaints.

Communication skills in candidates for accreditation in rheumatology are correlated with candidate's performance in the objective structured clinical examination. / Las habilidades de comunicación de los aspirantes a la certificación en Reumatología se asocian con su desempeño en el examen clínico objetivo estructurado.

BACKGROUND: The Mexican Accreditation Council for Rheumatology annually certifies trainees in Rheumatology using a multiple-choice test and an objective structured clinical examination (OSCE). Since 2015, candidate's communication skills (CS) have been rated by both patients and by physician examiners and correlated with results on the OSCE. This study compared the CS from candidates to annual accreditation in Rheumatology as rated by patients and by physician examiners, and assessed whether these correlated with candidate's performance in the OSCE. MATERIAL AND METHODS: From 2015 to 2017, 8areas of CS were evaluated using a Likert scale, in each OSCE station that involved a patient. Both patient and physician evaluators were trained annually and their evaluations were performed blindly. The associations were calculated using the Pearson correlation coefficient. RESULTS: In general, candidates were given high CS scores; the scores from patients of the candidate's CS were better than those of physician examiners; within the majority of the stations, both scores were found to correlate moderately. In addition, the scoring of CS correlated with trainee performance at the corresponding OSCE station. Interestingly, better correlations were found when the skills were rated by the patients compared to physician scores. The average CS score was correlated with the overall OSCE performance for each trainee, but not with the multiple-choice test, except in the 2017 accreditation process, when a weak correlation was found. CONCLUSIONS: CS assessed during a national accreditation process correlated with the candidate's performance at the station level and with the overall OSCE.

Reunión multidisciplinaria de expertos para el diagnóstico y tratamiento de la osteoartritis. Actualización basada en evidencias / Multidisciplinary meeting of experts for diagnosis and treatment of osteoarthritis. Up-to-date based on evidence

Resumen La osteoartritis es una enfermedad articular crónica degenerativa, es la afección articular observada con más frecuencia en la población adulta y una de las principales causas de discapacidad en todo el mundo, por lo que es de importancia el diagnóstico y tratamiento en las fases tempranas de la enfermedad. En la actualidad los nuevos tratamientos, además de aliviar el dolor, pueden disminuir la limitación funcional y modificar el curso de la enfermedad. El objetivo de este artículo es actualizar la evidencia acerca del diagnóstico y de las nuevas formas de tratamiento de la osteoartritis, así como evaluar los cambios en la evidencia que ha habido en relación con la guía anterior. Para la elaboración de la guía motivo de esta reunión, se contó con la participación de especialistas en Medicina Interna, Reumatología, Ortopedia y Rehabilitación física, un bibliotecario y un experto en metodología; se realizó una búsqueda extensa en PubMed y en otros sitios web especializados. Se estableció una serie de recomendaciones y niveles de evidencia basados en la bibliografía consultada. Se concluye que la osteoartritis es una enfermead compleja que implica múltiples factores de riesgo, por lo que es importante tomar en cuenta que el tratamiento es multidisciplinario y consta de un enfoque no farmacológico y uno farmacológico; sin embargo, es necesario crear una cultura preventiva de la osteoartritis en los médicos tratantes, en la que se eduque y se dé información al paciente para evitar que la enfermedad progrese.

Abstract Osteoarthritis, a chronic degenerative joint disease, is the joint condition most frequently observed in the adult population; is one of the leading causes of disability worldwide. Therefore, it is important the diagnosis and treatment in the early stages of the disease. Currently new therapies, in addition to relieving pain, can reduce functional limitation and modify the course of the disease. The objective of this article is to update the evidence on diagnosis and new forms of osteoarthritis treatment, as well as to evaluate the changes in the evidence that has been in relation to the previous guide. For the elaboration of the guide, there was participation of specialists (Internal Medicine, Rheumatology, Orthopedics and Physical Rehabilitation), a librarian and an expert in methodology; an extensive search was carried out in PubMed and other specialized websites. A series of recommendations and levels of evidence were established based on the bibliography consulted. Concluding that osteoarthritis is a complex pathology involving multiple risk factors, it is important to consider that the treatment is multidisciplinary and consists of a non-pharmacological approach and a pharmacological treatment; however, it is necessary to create a preventive culture on osteoarthritis in treating doctors, in which the patient is educated and given information to prevent the disease from progressing.

The method used to set the pass mark in an objective structured clinical examination defines the performance of candidates for certification as rheumatologists. / El método para establecer el punto de corte en el examen clínico objetivo estructurado define el desempeño de los candidatos a la certificación como reumatólogo.

BACKGROUND: The Mexican Accreditation Council for Rheumatology certifies trainees (TR) on an annual basis using both a multiple-choice question (MCQ) test and an objective structured clinical examination (OSCE). For 2013 and 2014, the OSCE pass mark (PM) was set by criterion referencing as ≥6 (CPM), whereas overall rating of borderline performance method (BPM) was added for 2015 and 2016 accreditations. We compared OSCE TR performance according to CPM and BPM, and examined whether correlations between MCQ and OSCE were affected by PM. METHODS: Forty-three (2015) and 37 (2016) candidates underwent both tests. Altogether, OSCE were integrated by 15 validated stations; one evaluator per station scored TR performance according to a station-tailored check-list and a Likert scale (fail, borderline, above range) of overall performance. A composite OSCE score was derived for each candidate. Appropriate statistics were used. RESULTS: Mean (±standard derivation [SD]) MCQ test scores were 6.6±0.6 (2015) and 6.4±0.6 (2016) with 5 candidates receiving a failing score each year. Mean (±SD) OSCE scores were 7.4±0.6 (2015) and 7.3±0.6 (2016); no candidate received a failing CPM score in either 2015 or 2016 OSCE, although 21 (49%) and 19 (51%) TR, respectively, received a failing BPM score (calculated as 7.3 and 7.4, respectively). Stations for BPM ranged from 4.5 to 9.5; overall, candidates showed better performance in CPM. In all, MCQ correlated with composite OSCE, r=0.67 (2015) and r=0.53 (2016); P≤.001. Trainees with a passing BPM score in OSCE had higher MCQ scores than those with a failing score. CONCLUSIONS: Overall, OSCE-PM selection impacted candidates' performance but had a limited affect on correlation between clinical and practical examinations.

[Locally administered ropivacaine vs. standard analgesia for laparoscopic cholecystectomy]. / Ropivacaína local contra analgesia estándar en colecistectomía laparoscópica.

BACKGROUND: It is unknown which analgesic modality gives better results after a laparoscopic cholecystectomy. The aim of this study was to compare the analgesic efficacy of ropivacaine for local use against that of intravenous dipyrone in laparoscopic cholecystectomy. METHODS: A non-inferiority randomized clinical trial. Fifty patients with laparoscopic cholecystectomy were included into two separate groups. INTERVENTION: 0.75 % ropivacaine infiltrated at the trocar insertion sites and in the gallbladder fossa compared with intravenous dipyrone. MEASUREMENTS: The primary outcome was pain, which was assessed using the visual analog scale during the first 24 hours. Secondary outcomes were the presence of adverse effects, and the need for analgesic rescue with tramadol. RESULTS: The visual analog scale average for pain at the conclusion of the surgery was 3.8 in the ropivacaine vs. 3.56 in the dipyrone groups, while at 6, 12 and 24 hours the values were 2.64, 1.92 and 1.28, respectively, for ropivacaine versus 2.6, 1.88 and 1.2, respectively, for dipyrone. No adverse effects were observed in either group, and the two groups exhibited similar needs for analgesic rescue with tramadol. CONCLUSIONS: Infiltration of 0.75 % ropivacaine at the trocar insertion sites and the gallbladder exhibits analgesia similar to IV dipyrone during the first 24 hours post-laparoscopic cholecystectomy without adverse effects.

Introducción: se desconoce qué modalidad analgésica brinda mejores resultados después de una colecistectomía laparoscópica. El objetivo de este estudio consistió en valuar la eficacia analgésica de la ropivacaína usada localmente contra la dipirona por vía intravenosa en colecistectomía laparoscópica. Métodos: ensayo clínico al azar, de no inferioridad, en 50 pacientes con colecistectomía laparoscópica para comparar el uso de ropivacaína al 0.75 % infiltrada en el lugar de inserción de los trócares y en la fosa vesicular frente a dipirona por vía intravenosa. El desenlace primario fue dolor evaluado mediante escala visual análoga (EVA) en las primeras 24 horas. Resultados: el promedio de las EVA de dolor al término de la cirugía fue de 3.8 frente a 3.56 en el grupo de ropivacaína o de dipirona, mientras que a las 6, 12 y 24 horas fueron 2.64 frente a 2.6, 1.92 frente a 1.88 y 1.28 frente a 1.2, respectivamente. No hubo efectos adversos en ningún grupo y la necesidad de rescates analgésicos con tramadol fue similar entre ambos grupos. Conclusiones: la ropivacaína al 0.75 % infiltrada en el lugar de inserción de los trócares y la fosa vesicular muestra una analgesia similar a la dipirona por vía intravenosa en las primeras 24 horas después de una colecistectomía laparoscópica, sin efectos adversos.

Performance of an objective structured clinical examination in a national certification process of trainees in rheumatology.

OBJECTIVE: To assess reliability and validity of the objectively-structured clinical examination (OSCE) applied in postgraduate certification processes by the Mexican Board of Rheumatology. METHOD: Thirty-two (2013) and 38 (2014) Rheumatology trainees (RTs) underwent an OSCE consisting of 12 and 15 stations respectively, scored according to a validated check-list, as well as 300-multiple-choice 300 question examination (MCQ). Previously, 3 certified rheumatologists underwent a pilot-OSCE. A composite OSCE score was obtained for each participant and its performance examined. RESULTS: In 2013, OSCE mean score was 7.1±0.6 with none RT receiving a failing score while the MCQ score was 6.5±0.6 and 7 (21.9%) RTs receiving a failing (< 6) score. In 2014, the OSCE score was 6.7±0.6, with 3 (7.9%) RTs receiving a failing score (2 of them also failed MCQ) while the MCQ score was 6.4±0.5 and 7 (18.5%) RTs were disqualified (2 of them also failed OSCE). A significant correlation between the MCQ and the OSCE scores was observed in the 2013 (r=0.44; P=0.006). Certified rheumatologists performed better than RTs at both OSCE. Overall, 86% of RTs obtaining an OSCE passing score also obtained a MCQ passing score, while this was only 67% (P=.02) among those who obtained an OSCE failing score. Nine stations were applied at both consecutive years. Their performance was similar in both certification processes, with correlation coefficients ranging from 0.81 to 0.95 (P≤0.01). CONCLUSION: The OSCE is a valid and reliable tool to assess the Rheumatology clinical skills in RTs.

Cost-minimization study comparing annual infusion of zoledronic acid or weekly oral alendronate in women with low bone mineral density.

Cost-minimization study to assess the annual direct costs of 2 antiresorptive strategies in postmenopausal women with low bone mineral densities (BMDs). Patients were randomly assigned to receive 70 mg of oral weekly alendronate or a 1-time 5mg of intravenous zoledronic acid. All medical and nonmedical direct costs were recorded for 1 yr. Student's t-test or the Chi-squared test was used. A total of 101 postmenopausal women were enrolled with a mean age of 58.3 ± 7.6 yr and a postmenopausal period of 13.5 ± 8.3 yr. A total of 50 patients completed 1 yr of alendronate and 51 patients received zoledronic acid. At baseline, no differences were seen between the 2 groups in anthropometric measures, comorbidities, and bone mineral density. The costs for medical attention for low bone mass were $81,532 (US Dollars) for the alendronate group and $69,251 for the zoledronic acid group; the cost per patient was $1631 in the alendronate group vs $1358 in the zoledronic acid group (p<0.0001). Therefore, zoledronic acid treatment provided an annual savings of 15% of the direct costs compared with oral alendronate treatment. Moreover, there was a significant increase in lumbar spine T-scores in the zoledronic acid group when compared with the alendronate group. Annual zoledronic acid infusion as an antiresorptive treatment in women with low BMD provides significant monetary savings when compared with weekly alendronate therapy for 1 yr. Zoledronic acid infusion is also linked to higher increase in BMD and compliance.