Duration of inactive disease while off disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs seems to influence flare rates in juvenile idiopathic arthritis: an observational retrospective study.

BACKGROUND: many Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) patients reach inactivity while medicated, but there are no guidelines to determine the moment or method for discontinuing medications. We present the flare rates and remission and possible influencing factors after therapy discontinuation in children with JIA. METHODS: data was collected from charts of JIA patients (n=70) in remission on medication, who had their drugs withdrawn. RESULTS: Seventy patients fulfilled inclusion criteria and were included for analysis. The mean time of inactive disease on medication until tapering or withdrawal was 15.6±6.7 months; 45 (64.3%) patients remained in remission and 25 (35.7%) flared. There was no difference between groups regarding sex, age, JIA subtype, disease duration, time in remission on medication and scheme of therapy withdrawal. Patients who fulfilled Wallace criteria for remission off medication had lower flare rates than those who did not achieve 12 months of remission after the medication withdrawal (p<0.0001). Patients who used biologic DMARDs plus synthetic DMARDs appeared to flare more (77.8% vs 29.5% respectively, p=0.008) and presented shorter periods of inactivity off medication (15.3±24.7 vs 32.3 ± 31.7 months respectively, p=0.049) compared to those who used only synthetic DMARDs. CONCLUSION: It is possible that gradual drug tapering is not necessary for JIA patients, but caution must be exerted in those patients using biologic DMARDs, weighing carefully the decision to withdraw medication, due to their higher flare rates and shorter times of inactive disease after the medication withdrawal.

Translation and validation of the Transition Readiness Assessment Questionnaire (TRAQ) / Tradução e validação do Questionário de Avaliação do Preparo para a Transição (TRAQ)

Abstract Objective: To translate and validate the Brazilian Portuguese version of the Transition Readiness Assessment Questionnaire in a population of adolescents and young adults with chronic rheumatologic disorders. This questionnaire evaluates the patient's readiness for making the transition from the pediatric health service to adult care. Methods: The four-phase methodology for the translation and validation of generic questionnaires was followed, including translation, back-translation, pilot testing and clinical validation of the final tool. The confirmatory factor analysis was used for clinical validation and the Cronbach's alpha coefficient was used to assess the overall internal consistency of the final tool. Results: A total of 150 patients with a mean age of 17.0 years (SD = 2.2 years, range 14-21 years) were enrolled for the final tool validation. Of those, 71 patients had juvenile systemic lupus erythematosus (47.3%), 64 had juvenile idiopathic arthritis (42.7%), and 15 had juvenile dermatomyositis (10%). During the confirmatory factor analysis, the dimension "Talking with providers" consisting of two questions, was considered as not fitting the translated questionnaire due to a very high ceiling effect and was therefore excluded. All other translated items favorably contributed to the overall consistency of the final tool; removing that dimension did not result in a substantial increase in Cronbach's alpha, which was 0.776. Conclusions: The Brazilian Portuguese version of the Transition Readiness Assessment Questionnaire was validated in a population of transitional patients with chronic rheumatologic disorders, after one dimension from the original questionnaire was excluded. It is a non-specific disease questionnaire; thus, it can be used to evaluate the transition readiness of Brazilian patients with other chronic diseases.

Resumo Objetivo: Traduzir para o português brasileiro e validar o Questionário de Avaliação do Preparo para a Transição em uma população de adolescentes e adultos jovens com doenças reumáticas crônicas. Este questionário avalia o preparo do paciente para realizar a transição do serviço de saúde pediátrico para a assistência ao adulto. Métodos: Seguimos a metodologia de quatro etapas para a tradução e validação de questionários genéricos que inclui tradução, retrotradução, teste piloto e validação clínica do instrumento final. Utilizamos Análise Fatorial Confirmatória e Coeficiente Alfa de Cronbach para testar a validade do instrumento e sua consistência interna. Resultados: Responderam ao questionário traduzido e adaptado 150 pacientes. A média de idade foi de 17,0 anos (DP = 2,2 anos, variação 14-21 anos). Tinham o diagnóstico de lúpus eritematoso sistêmico juvenil 71 pacientes (47,3%), 64 (42,7%) artrite idiopática juvenil e 15 (10%) dermatomiosite juvenil. Durante a análise fatorial confirmatória, a dimensão "Falando com a Equipe Médica" contendo duas questões teve que ser removida devido à presença de expressivo efeito teto. Todas as outras questões restantes contribuíram favoravelmente para aumentar a consistência interna do questionário, obteve-se um Coeficiente Alfa de Cronbach de 0,776. Conclusões: O Questionário de Avaliação do Preparo para a Transição na sua versão em português brasileiro pode ser validado em uma população de pacientes com doenças reumáticas crônicas em transição, com a exclusão de uma dimensão do questionário original. Por ser um questionário não específico para doenças reumáticas, poderá ser utilizado para avaliar o preparo para a transição de outros pacientes brasileiros com doenças crônicas.

Translation and validation of the Transition Readiness Assessment Questionnaire (TRAQ).

OBJECTIVE: To translate and validate the Brazilian Portuguese version of the Transition Readiness Assessment Questionnaire in a population of adolescents and young adults with chronic rheumatologic disorders. This questionnaire evaluates the patient's readiness for making the transition from the pediatric health service to adult care. METHODS: The four-phase methodology for the translation and validation of generic questionnaires was followed, including translation, back-translation, pilot testing and clinical validation of the final tool. The confirmatory factor analysis was used for clinical validation and the Cronbach's alpha coefficient was used to assess the overall internal consistency of the final tool. RESULTS: A total of 150 patients with a mean age of 17.0 years (SD=2.2 years, range 14-21 years) were enrolled for the final tool validation. Of those, 71 patients had juvenile systemic lupus erythematosus (47.3%), 64 had juvenile idiopathic arthritis (42.7%), and 15 had juvenile dermatomyositis (10%). During the confirmatory factor analysis, the dimension "Talking with providers" consisting of two questions, was considered as not fitting the translated questionnaire due to a very high ceiling effect and was therefore excluded. All other translated items favorably contributed to the overall consistency of the final tool; removing that dimension did not result in a substantial increase in Cronbach's alpha, which was 0.776. CONCLUSIONS: The Brazilian Portuguese version of the Transition Readiness Assessment Questionnaire was validated in a population of transitional patients with chronic rheumatologic disorders, after one dimension from the original questionnaire was excluded. It is a non-specific disease questionnaire; thus, it can be used to evaluate the transition readiness of Brazilian patients with other chronic diseases.

Lipid profile among girls with systemic lupus erythematosus.

The aim of the study was to describe biomarkers of lipid metabolism associated with increased cardiovascular risk and their correlation with disease variables and markers of inflammation in adolescent females with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). This cross-sectional controlled study evaluated 33 adolescent females with juvenile SLE and 33 healthy controls. Anthropometric data, SLE disease activity index (SLEDAI), medications, proteinuria, ultra-sensitive C-reactive protein (us-CRP), lipid profile (total cholesterol, LDL-c, HDL-c and triglycerides), apolipoproteins A and B (Apo A-I and B), paraoxonase, and myeloperoxidase were evaluated. Median age of the patients and the median disease duration were 16.7 years and 54 months, respectively. SLEDAI scores above 4 were observed in 11 (33.3 %) patients. Moreover, 12 (36.4 %) patients were overweight, and 5 (15.2 %) had low height for age ratios. Dyslipidemia was observed in 13 (39.4 %) patients and in 7 (21.2 %) controls with a decrease in HDL-c concentrations in SLE patients even after adjustment for their nutritional status. In the group with SLE, us-CRP concentrations were inversely correlated with LDL-c/ApoB ratio (p = 0.031). After multivariate regression analysis, the SLE group showed lower concentration of Apo A-I and a decreased LDL-c/ApoB ratio. SLE adolescent females with low disease activity, with preserved kidney function and on low dose of corticosteroids, regardless of nutritional status and food intake, have proatherogenic lipid biomarkers, which may contribute to an increased atherosclerotic risk.

Guidelines for the management and treatment of periodic fever syndromes familial Mediterranean fever.

OBJECTIVE: To establish guidelines based on scientific evidence for the management of familial Mediterranean fever. DESCRIPTION OF THE EVIDENCE COLLECTION METHOD: The Guideline was prepared from 5 clinical questions that were structured through PICO (Patient, Intervention or indicator, Comparison and Outcome), to search key primary scientific information databases. After defining the potential studies to support the recommendations, these were graduated considering their strength of evidence and grade of recommendation. RESULTS: 10,341 articles were retrieved and evaluated by title and abstract; from these, 46 articles were selected to support the recommendations. RECOMMENDATIONS: 1. The diagnosis of FMF is based on clinical manifestations, characterized by recurrent febrile episodes associated with abdominal pain, chest or arthritis of large joints. 2. FMF is a genetic disease presenting an autosomal recessive trait, caused by mutation in the MEFV gene. 3. Laboratory tests are not specific, demonstrating high serum levels of inflammatory proteins in the acute phase of the disease, but also often showing high levels even between attacks. SAA serum levels may be especially useful in monitoring the effectiveness of treatment. 4. The therapy of choice is colchicine; this drug has proven its effectiveness in preventing acute inflammatory episodes and progression toward amyloidosis in adults. 5. Based on the available information, the use of biological drugs appears to be an alternative for patients with FMF who do not respond or are intolerant to therapy with colchicine.

Guidelines for the management and treatment of periodic fever syndromes: Cryopyrin-associated periodic syndromes (cryopyrinopathies - CAPS).

OBJECTIVE: To establish guidelines based on cientific evidences for the management of cryopyrin associated periodic syndromes. DESCRIPTION OF THE EVIDENCE COLLECTION METHOD: The Guideline was prepared from 4 clinical questions that were structured through PICO (Patient, Intervention or indicator, Comparison and Outcome), to search in key primary scientific information databases. After defining the potential studies to support the recommendations, these were graduated considering their strength of evidence and grade of recommendation. RESULTS: 1215 articles were retrieved and evaluated by title and abstract; from these, 42 articles were selected to support the recommendations. RECOMMENDATIONS: 1. The diagnosis of CAPS is based on clinical history and clinical manifestations, and later confirmed by genetic study. CAPS may manifest itself in three phenotypes: FCAS (mild form), MWS (intermediate form) and CINCA (severe form). Neurological, ophthalmic, otorhinolaryngological and radiological assessments may be highly valuable in distinguishing between syndromes; 2. The genetic diagnosis with NLRP3 gene analysis must be conducted in suspected cases of CAPS, i.e., individuals presenting before 20 years of age, recurrent episodes of inflammation expressed by a mild fever and urticaria; 3. Laboratory abnormalities include leukocytosis and elevated serum levels of inflammatory proteins; and 4. Targeted therapies directed against interleukin-1 lead to rapid remission of symptoms in most patients. However, there are important limitations on the long-term safety. None of the three anti-IL-1ß inhibitors prevents progression of bone lesions.

Guidelines for the management and treatment of periodic fever syndromes: periodic fever, aphthous stomatitis, pharyngitis and adenitis syndrome.

OBJECTIVE: To establish guidelines based on scientific evidence for the management of periodic fever, aphthous stomatitis, pharyngitis and adenitis (PFAPA) syndrome. DESCRIPTION OF THE EVIDENCE COLLECTION METHOD: The Guideline was prepared from 5 clinical questions that were structured through PICO (Patient, Intervention or indicator, Comparison and Outcome), to search in key primary scientific information databases. After defining the potential studies to support the recommendations, these were graduated considering their strength of evidence and grade of recommendation. RESULTS: 806 articles were retrieved and evaluated by title and abstract; from these, 32 articles were selected to support the recommendations. RECOMMENDATIONS: 1. PFAPA is a diagnosis of exclusion established on clinical grounds, and one must suspect of this problem in children with recurrent and periodic febrile episodes of unknown origin, or with recurrent tonsillitis interspersed with asymptomatic periods, especially in children in good general condition and with preservation of weight and height development. 2. Laboratory findings are nonspecific. Additional tests do not reveal pathognomonic changes. 3. The evidence supporting an indication for surgical treatment (tonsillectomy with or without adenoidectomy), is based on two non-blinded randomized clinical trials with small numbers of patients. 4. The use of prednisone at the onset of fever in patients with PFAPA proved to be an effective strategy. There is still need for more qualified evidence to support its use in patients with PFAPA. 5. Despite promising results obtained in studies with IL-1ß inhibitors, such studies are limited to a few case reports.

Diretrizes de conduta e tratamento de síndromes febris periódicas associadas a febre familiar do Mediterrâneo / Guidelines for the management and treatment of periodic fever syndromes familial Mediterranean fever

Resumo Objetivo: Estabelecer diretrizes baseadas em evidências científicas para manejo da febre familiar do Mediterrâneo (FFM). Descrição do método de coleta de evidência: A diretriz foi elaborada a partir de 5 questões clínicas que foram estruturadas por meio do PICO (Paciente, Intervenção ou Indicador, Comparação e Outcome), com busca nas principais bases primárias de informação científica. Após definir os estudos potenciais para sustento das recomendações, esses foram graduados pela força da evidência e pelo grau de recomendação. Resultados: Foram recuperados, e avaliados pelo título e resumo, 10.341 trabalhos e selecionados 46 artigos para sustentar as recomendações. Recomendações: 1. O diagnóstico da FFM é baseado nas manifestações clínicas, caracterizadas por episódios febris recorrentes associados a dor abdominal, torácica ou artrite de grandes articulações; 2. A FFM é uma doença genética que apresenta traço autossômico recessivo ocasionada por mutação no gene MEFV; 3. Exames laboratoriais são inespecíficos e demonstram níveis séricos elevados de proteínas inflamatórias na fase aguda da doença, mas também, com frequência, níveis elevados mesmo entre os ataques. Níveis séricos de SAA podem ser especialmente úteis no monitoramento da eficácia do tratamento; 4. A colchicina é a terapia de escolha e demonstrou eficácia na prevenção dos episódios inflamatórios agudos e progressão para amiloidose em adultos; 5. Com base na informação disponível, o uso de medicamentos biológicos parece ser opção para pacientes com FFM que não respondem ou que são intolerantes à terapia com colchicina.

Abstract Objective: To establish guidelines based on scientific evidence for the management of familial Mediterranean fever. Description of the evidence collection method: The Guideline was prepared from 5 clinical questions that were structured through PICO (Patient, Intervention or indicator, Comparison and Outcome), to search in key primary scientific information databases. After defining the potential studies to support the recommendations, these were graduated considering their strength of evidence and grade of recommendation. Results: 10,341 articles were retrieved and evaluated by title and abstract; from these, 46 articles were selected to support the recommendations. Recommendations: 1. The diagnosis of FMF is based on clinical manifestations, characterized by recurrent febrile episodes associated with abdominal pain, chest or arthritis of large joints; 2. FMF is a genetic disease presenting an autosomal recessive trait, caused by mutation in the MEFV gene; 3. Laboratory tests are not specific, demonstrating high serum levels of inflammatory proteins in the acute phase of the disease, but also often showing high levels even between attacks. SAA serum levels may be especially useful in monitoring the effectiveness of treatment; 4. The therapy of choice is colchicine; this drug has proven effectiveness in preventing acute inflammatory episodes and progression towards amyloidosis in adults; 5. Based on the available information, the use of biological drugs appears to be an alternative for patients with FMF who do not respond or are intolerant to therapy with colchicine.

Diretrizes de conduta e tratamento de síndromes febris periódicas associadas à criopirina (criopirinopatias – CAPS) / Guidelines for the management and treatment of periodic fever syndromes

Resumo Objetivo: Estabelecer diretrizes baseadas em evidências científicas para manejo das síndromes periódicas associadas à criopirina (criopirinopatias – Caps). Descrição do método de coleta de evidência: A diretriz foi elaborada a partir de quatro questões clínicas que foram estruturadas por meio do PICO (Paciente, Intervenção ou Indicador, Comparação e Outcome), com busca nas principais bases primárias de informação científica. Após definir os estudos potenciais para sustento das recomendações, esses foram graduados pela força da evidência e pelo grau de recomendação. Resultado: Foram recuperados, e avaliados pelo título e resumo, 1.215 artigos e selecionados 42 trabalhos para sustentar as recomendações. Recomendações: 1. O diagnóstico de Caps é baseado na anamnese e nas manifestações clínicas e posteriormente confirmado por estudo genético. Pode se manifestar sob três fenótipos: FCAS (forma leve), MWS (forma intermediária) e Cinca (forma grave). Avaliações neurológica, oftalmológica, otorrinolaringológica e radiológica podem ser de grande valia na distinção entre as síndromes; 2. O diagnóstico genético com análise do gene NLRP3 deve ser conduzido nos casos suspeitos de Caps, isto é, indivíduos que apresentam, antes dos 20 anos, episódios recorrentes de inflamação expressa por urticária e febre moderada; 3. As alterações laboratoriais incluem leucocitose e elevação nos níveis séricos de proteínas inflamatórias; 4. Terapias alvo dirigidas contra a interleucina 1 levam a rápida remissão dos sintomas na maioria dos pacientes. Contudo, existem limitações importantes em relação à segurança em longo prazo. Nenhuma das três medicações anti-IL1β evita progressão das lesões ósseas.

Abstract Objective: To establish guidelines based on cientific evidences for the management of cryopyrin associated periodic syndromes. Description of the evidence collection method: The Guideline was prepared from 4 clinical questions that were structured through PICO (Patient, Intervention or indicator, Comparison and Outcome), to search in key primary scientific information databases. After defining the potential studies to support the recommendations, these were graduated considering their strength of evidence and grade of recommendation. Results: 1215 articles were retrieved and evaluated by title and abstract; from these, 42 articles were selected to support the recommendations. Recommendations: 1. The diagnosis of CAPS is based on clinical history and clinical manifestations, and later confirmed by genetic study. CAPS may manifest itself in three phenotypes: FCAS (mild form), MWS (intermediate form) and CINCA (severe form). Neurological, ophthalmic, otorhinolaryngological and radiological assessments may be highly valuable in distinguishing between syndromes; 2. The genetic diagnosis with NLRP3 gene analysis must be conducted in suspected cases of CAPS, i.e., individuals presenting before 20 years of age, recurrent episodes of inflammation expressed by a mild fever and urticaria; 3. Laboratory abnormalities include leukocytosis and elevated serum levels of inflammatory proteins; and 4. Targeted therapies directed against interleukin-1 lead to rapid remission of symptoms in most patients. However, there are important limitations on the long-term safety. None of the three anti-IL-1β inhibitors prevents progression of bone lesions.

Diretrizes de conduta e tratamento de síndromes febris periódicas: síndrome de febre periódica, estomatite aftosa, faringite e adenite / Guidelines for the management and treatment of periodic fever syndromes: periodic fever, aphthous stomatitis, pharyngitis and adenitis syndrome

Resumo Objetivo: Estabelecer diretrizes baseadas em evidências científicas para manejo da síndrome de febre periódica, estomatite aftosa, faringite e adenite (PFAPA). Descrição do método de coleta de evidência: A Diretriz foi elaborada a partir de cinco questões clínicas que foram estruturadas por meio do Pico (Paciente, Intervenção ou Indicador, Comparação e Outcome), com busca nas principais bases primárias de informação científica. Após definir os estudos potenciais para sustento das recomendações, esses foram graduados pela força da evidência e pelo grau de recomendação. Resultados: Foram recuperados e avaliados pelo título e resumo 806 trabalhos e selecionados 32 artigos, para sustentar as recomendações. Recomendações: 1. O diagnóstico da PFAPA é clínico e de exclusão, deve a suspeita ser considerada em crianças que apresentam episódios febris de origem indeterminada recorrentes e periódicos ou amidalites de repetição, intercalados com períodos assintomáticos, sobretudo em crianças em bom estado geral e com desenvolvimento pondero-estatural mantido; 2. Os achados laboratoriais são inespecíficos. Não existem alterações patognomônicas nos exames complementares; 3. A evidência que sustenta a indicação do tratamento cirúrgico (tonsilectomia com ou sem adenoidectomia) é baseada em dois ensaios clínicos randomizados não cegos que incluíram pequeno número de pacientes; 4. O uso de prednisona no início do quadro febril em pacientes com PFAPA mostrou ser eficaz. Melhores evidências ainda são necessárias para apoiar seu uso na PFAPA; 5. Apesar de os resultados obtidos de estudos com inibidores de IL-1ß serem promissores, esses são limitados a poucos relatos de casos.

Abstract Objective: To establish guidelines based on scientific evidence for the management of periodic fever, aphthous stomatitis, pharyngitis and adenitis (PFAPA) syndrome. Description of the evidence collection method: The Guideline was prepared from 5 clinical questions that were structured through PICO (Patient, Intervention or indicator, Comparison and Outcome), to search in key primary scientific information databases. After defining the potential studies to support the recommendations, these were graduated considering their strength of evidence and grade of recommendation. Results: 806 articles were retrieved and evaluated by title and abstract; from these, 32 articles were selected to support the recommendations. Recommendations: 1. PFAPA is a diagnosis of exclusion established on clinical grounds, and one must suspect of this problem in children with recurrent and periodic febrile episodes of unknown origin, or with recurrent tonsillitis interspersed with asymptomatic periods, especially in children in good general condition and with preservation of weight and height development. 2. Laboratory findings are nonspecific. Additional tests do not reveal pathognomonic changes. 3. The evidence supporting an indication for surgical treatment (tonsillectomy with or without adenoidectomy), is based on two non-blinded randomized clinical trials with small numbers of patients. 4. The use of prednisone at the onset of fever in patients with PFAPA proved to be an effective strategy. There is still need for more qualified evidence to support its use in patients with PFAPA. 5. Despite promising results obtained in studies with IL-1β inhibitors, such studies are limited to a few case reports.

Are temporomandibular joint signs and symptoms associated with magnetic resonance imaging findings in juvenile idiopathic arthritis patients? A longitudinal study.

The aims of this longitudinal study were to perform a comprehensive clinical evaluation of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and to investigate the association between the clinical and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings in the TMJs of patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). Seventy-five patients with JIA participated in this study. All patients underwent a rheumatological examination performed by a paediatric rheumatologist, a TMJ examination performed by a single dentist and an MRI with contrast of the TMJs. These examinations were scheduled on the same date. The patients were examined again 1 year later. Twenty-eight (37.3 %) patients reported symptoms at the first evaluation and 11 (14.7 %) patients at the second evaluation. In relation to signs, 35 (46.7 %) of the patients presented at least one sign at the first evaluation and 29 (38.7 %) at the second. Intense contrast enhancement of TMJ was significantly associated with disease activity (p < 0.001) at the first evaluation and a trend to significance was observed at the second (p = 0.056), with poly/systemic subtypes (p = 0.028 and p = 0.049, respectively), with restricted mouth opening capacity (p = 0.013 and p = 0.001, respectively), with the presence of erosions at both evaluations (p = 0.0001 and p < 0.0001, respectively) and with altered condylar shape at the second evaluation (p = 0.0005). TMJ involvement is highly prevalent in JIA patients, with asymptomatic children presenting severe structural alterations of the TMJ. The TMJ should always be evaluated in JIA patients, even in the absence of signs and symptoms.

Clinical features of childhood granulomatosis with polyangiitis (wegener's granulomatosis).

BACKGROUND: Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA), formerly known as Wegener's granulomatosis (WG), belongs to the group of ANCA-associated necrotizing vasculitides. This study describes the clinical picture of the disease in a large cohort of GPA paediatric patients. Children with age at diagnosis ≤ 18 years, fulfilling the EULAR/PRINTO/PRES GPA/WG classification criteria were extracted from the PRINTO vasculitis database. The clinical signs/symptoms and laboratory features were analysed before or at the time of diagnosis and at least 3 months thereafter and compared with other paediatric and adult case series (>50 patients) derived from the literature. FINDINGS: The 56 children with GPA/WG were predominantly females (68%) and Caucasians (82%) with a median age at disease onset of 11.7 years, and a median delay in diagnosis of 4.2 months. The most frequent organ systems involved before/at the time of diagnosis were ears, nose, throat (91%), constitutional (malaise, fever, weight loss) (89%), respiratory (79%), mucosa and skin (64%), musculoskeletal (59%), and eye (35%), 67% were ANCA-PR3 positive, while haematuria/proteinuria was present in > 50% of the children. In adult series, the frequency of female involvement ranged from 29% to 50% with lower frequencies of constitutional (fever, weight loss), ears, nose, throat (oral/nasal ulceration, otitis/aural discharge), respiratory (tracheal/endobronchial stenosis/obstruction), laboratory involvement and higher frequency of conductive hearing loss than in this paediatric series. CONCLUSIONS: Paediatric patients compared to adults with GPA/WG have similar pattern of clinical manifestations but different frequencies of organ involvement.

Importance of adherence in the outcome of juvenile idiopathic arthritis.

Medical treatment of juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) has advanced in the last decade, and improved prognosis is a reality in daily clinical practice. Despite this improvement in the quality of treatment, the outcome can still be compromised by modifiable factors, including delayed referral to a specialist, delayed drug treatment, poor adherence to treatment, and early interruption of drug treatment. In this review we discuss the most relevant aspects related to adherence to treatment in JIA, with emphasis on: factors that affect adherence to treatment; effect of poor adherence to treatment on JIA prognosis; when to suspect and how to assess poor adherence to treatment; and strategies to promote adherence to treatment, with an emphasis on information-reinforcement education. Besides presenting the findings of other authors, we also try to report our experience of this subject, which is still a challenge for health professionals.

Laser Doppler imaging for assessment of microcirculation in juvenile systemic sclerosis.

OBJECTIVES: The objectives of this study were to evaluate the dynamic behaviour of digital skin microvascular blood flow before and after cold stimulation using laser Doppler imaging (LDI) in children and adolescents with RP secondary to juvenile systemic sclerosis (JSS), primary RP (PRP) and healthy controls and to compare functional abnormalities measured by LDI with structural microvascular abnormalities evaluated by nailfold capillaroscopy (NFC). METHODS: Five JSS patients, five children and adolescents with PRP and five healthy controls matched for gender and age were included. All subjects had NFC performed. Finger blood flow (FBF) was measured using the LDI system (Moor Instruments) at baseline and after cold stimulus (CS). RESULTS: There were a decreased number of capillaries, a greater number of enlarged capillaries and a higher deletion score in JSS patients compared with controls and patients with PRP. The mean baseline FBF was significantly lower in JSS patients compared with controls. There was no difference between the mean baseline FBF in JSS patients compared with patients with PRP. There was a significant decrease in FBF 1 min after CS in all groups followed by blood flow recovery at 20 min after CS in comparison with basal FBF values in controls, but not in JSS and PRP patients. CONCLUSION: In JSS patients, LDI showed a lower FBF before and after CS compared with healthy controls and may be an objective and sensitive method for the measurement of digital skin blood flow in RP children.

Quality of life in patients with sickle cell disease.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the quality of life in children and adolescents with sickle cell disease attending a blood reference center, and to assess the quality of life of their relatives. METHODS: Cross-sectional study that included 100 patients with sickle cell disease, which were divided into three subgroups according to age: 5 to 7 (n=18), 8 to 12 (n=32), and 13 to 18 years-old (n=50), and their parents. The Control Group included 50 healthy children and adolescents from a public local school, also divided into the same three age subgroups and their caregivers. The Pediatric Quality of life Inventory (PedsQL), version 4.0, was applied in both groups. The generic questionnaire Medical Outcomes Study 36 - Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36) was applied to the relatives. The answers were linearly transformed into a score and compared by non-parametric tests. RESULTS: The PedsQL scores of patients were significantly lower than those obtained in the Control Group (p<0.0001) in all studied areas (physical, emotional, social skills, and school activities). Similarly, SF-36 scores applied to the patients' parents were lower than those obtained in the Control Group in all studied aspects (p<0.0001). CONCLUSIONS: Sickle cell disease affects the quality of life of children, adolescents, and their families. Patients sense restrictions in the emotional, social, family and physical aspects, among others.

Qualidade de vida em portadores de doença falciforme / Quality of life in patients with sickle cell disease / Calidad de vida en portadores de enfermedad falciforme

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a qualidade de vida relacionada à saúde de crianças e adolescentes com doença falciforme assistidas em um hemocentro de referência e mensurar a qualidade de vida relacionada à saúde dos respectivos familiares. MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal e seccional com 100 pacientes portadores de doença falciforme, divididos em três subgrupos conforme a faixa etária: de 5 a 7 (n=18), de 8 a 12 (n=32) e de 13 a 18 anos (n=50) e com seus respectivos pais. O Grupo Controle foi composto por 50 crianças e adolescentes saudáveis de uma escola pública local, também divididos nos três subgrupos de idade e seus respectivos cuidadores. Foi aplicado o questionário genérico "Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory" (PedsQL), versão 4.0, em ambos os grupos. Aos familiares foi aplicado o questionário genérico Medical Outcomes Study 36 - Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36). As respostas obtidas foram linearmente transformadas em um escore e comparadas com o auxílio de testes não paramétricos. RESULTADOS: Os escores dos pacientes no PedsQL foram inferiores àqueles do Grupo Controle (p<0,0001) nos aspectos estudados (capacidades física, emocional, social e atividade escolar). Da mesma forma, os escores do SF-36 aplicados aos pais dos pacientes foram mais baixos que os de pais do Grupo Controle em todos os aspectos estudados (p<0,0001). CONCLUSÕES: A doença falciforme compromete a qualidade de vida das crianças, dos adolescentes e de suas respectivas famílias. Os pacientes percebem restrições nos aspectos emocional, social, familiar e físico, dentre outros.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the quality of life in children and adolescents with sickle cell disease attending a blood reference center, and to assess the quality of life of their relatives. METHODS: Cross-sectional study that included 100 patients with sickle cell disease, which were divided into three subgroups according to age: 5 to 7 (n=18), 8 to 12 (n=32), and 13 to 18 years-old (n=50), and their parents. The Control Group included 50 healthy children and adolescents from a public local school, also divided into the same three age subgroups and their caregivers. The Pediatric Quality of life Inventory (PedsQL), version 4.0, was applied in both groups. The generic questionnaire Medical Outcomes Study 36 - Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36) was applied to the relatives. The answers were linearly transformed into a score and compared by non-parametric tests. RESULTS: The PedsQL scores of patients were significantly lower than those obtained in the Control Group (p<0.0001) in all studied areas (physical, emotional, social skills, and school activities). Similarly, SF-36 scores applied to the patients' parents were lower than those obtained in the Control Group in all studied aspects (p<0.0001). CONCLUSIONS: Sickle cell disease affects the quality of life of children, adolescents, and their families. Patients sense restrictions in the emotional, social, family and physical aspects, among others.

OBJETIVO: Evaluar la calidad de vida relacionada a la salud en niños y adolescentes con enfermedad falciforme asistidas en un servicio de hemoterapia de referencia y medir la calidad de vida relacionada a la salud de los respectivos familiares. MÉTODOS: Estudio transversal y seccional en 100 pacientes portadores de enfermedad falciforme, divididos en tres subgrupos conforme a la franja de edad: de 5 a 7 (n=18), de 8 a 12 (n=32) y de 13 a 18 (n=50) años con sus respectivos padres. El Grupo Control fue compuesto por 50 niños y adolescentes sanos de una escuela pública local, también divididos en los mismos tres subgrupos de edad y sus respectivos cuidadores. Se aplicó el cuestionario genérico «Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory¼ (PedsQL), versión 4.0, a ambos grupos. A los familiares se aplicó el cuestionario genérico Medical Outcomes Study 36 - Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36). Las respuestas obtenidas fueron linealmente transformadas en un escore y comparadas con la ayuda de pruebas no paramétricas. RESULTADOS: Los escores de los pacientes en el PedsQL fueron inferiores a aquellos del Grupo Control (p<0,0001) en los aspectos estudiados (capacidades física, emocional, social y actividad escolar). Del mismo modo, los escores del SF-36 aplicados a los padres de los pacientes fueron más bajos que los de padres del Grupo Control en todos los aspectos estudiados (p<0,0001). CONCLUSIONES: La enfermedad falciforme compromete la calidad de vida de los niños, de los adolescentes y de sus respectivas familias. Los pacientes perciben restricciones en los aspectos emocional, social, familiar y físico, entre otros.

Prevalence of juvenile idiopathic arthritis in children aged 6 to 12 years in Embu das Artes, state of Sao Paulo, Brazil.

The aim of the study was to study the prevalence of juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) in school children in the city of Embu das Artes in São Paulo State. 2880 school children from seven public schools, aged between 6 and 12 years, were evaluated (clinical findings) by a pediatric rheumatologist. A board certified Pediatric Rheumatologist evaluated the subjects with suspected inflammatory arthropathy. Children with higher suspicion were referred to a specialized service. One hundred and forty-one children have presented abnormalities on examination of musculoskeletal system, with isolated pain on palpation the most common finding in the first evaluation (60.9%), with improvement in almost all cases in the second examination. Most of the abnormalities were related to recent injuries or congenital malformations. Six children have clinical findings suggestive of chronic arthropathy and were referred to a specialized pediatric rheumatology clinic. Of these, a 12 year-old girl fulfilled the criteria for JIA. The other diagnoses were aseptic necrosis of the hip (P = 1) of and post-trauma synovitis (P = 4). The prevalence of JIA in children aged between 6 and 12 years was 1/2.880 (or 0.34/1.000).

Assessment of nutritional status and eating disorders in female adolescents with fibromyalgia.

PURPOSE: To assess eating disorders, nutritional status, body composition, and food intake in adolescents presenting with fibromyalgia. METHODS: In a cross-sectional study, we evaluated the nutritional status (z score of body mass index [ZBMI]), waist circumference, body fat percentage by bioelectrical impedance analysis, symptoms of disordered eating, and possible eating disorders (Kids' Eating Disorders Survey [KEDS]) of 23 female adolescents with fibromyalgia and 23 matched healthy control subjects. RESULTS: Median age for both groups was 15 years. In the fibromyalgia group, the median time for diagnosis was 13.5 months. We did not observe a statistically significant difference between the control and fibromyalgia groups in relation to ZBMI, fat mass percentage, food intake, and symptoms of disordered eating (KEDS). In the fibromyalgia group, there was a significant correlation between fat mass percentage and the total KEDS score (r = .587, p = .003); the same correlation was observed for ZBMI (r = .0778, p < .001). CONCLUSIONS: This study verified an absence of nutritional and eating disorders in adolescents recently diagnosed with fibromyalgia that, in addition to the correlation between adiposity indexes and KEDS total score, emphasizes the importance of nutritional and body composition assessment, allowing an early and adequate nutritional intervention.

Sleep, stress, neurocognitive profile and health-related quality of life in adolescents with idiopathic musculoskeletal pain.

OBJECTIVES: The aims of this study were to measure levels of sleep, stress, and depression, as well as health-related quality of life, and to assess the neurocognitive profiles in a sample of adolescents with idiopathic musculoskeletal pain. METHODS: Nineteen adolescents with idiopathic musculoskeletal pain and 20 age-matched healthy control subjects were evaluated regarding their levels of sleep and stress, as well as quality of life, and underwent neurocognitive testing. RESULTS: The sample groups consisted predominantly of females (84%), and the socioeconomic status did not differ between the two groups. In addition, the occurrence of depressive symptoms was similar between the two groups; specifically, 26% of the idiopathic musculoskeletal pain patients and 30% of the control subjects had scores indicative of depression. Teenagers in the group with idiopathic musculoskeletal pain reported poorer quality of life and sleep scores than those in the control group. Regarding stress, patients had worse scores than the control group; whereas 79% of the adolescents with idiopathic musculoskeletal pain met the criteria for a diagnosis of stress, only 35% of the adolescents in the control group met the criteria. In both groups, we observed scores that classified adolescents as being in the resistance phase (intermediate) and exhaustion phase (pathological) of distress. However, the idiopathic musculoskeletal pain group more frequently reported symptomatic complaints of physical and emotional distress. The neurocognitive assessment showed no significant impairments in either group. CONCLUSION: Adolescents with idiopathic musculoskeletal pain did not exhibit cognitive impairments. However, adolescents with idiopathic musculoskeletal pain did experience intermediate to advanced psychological distress and lower health-related quality of life, which may increase their risk of cognitive dysfunction in the future.

Sleep, stress, neurocognitive profile and healthrelated quality of life in adolescents with idiopathic musculoskeletal pain

OBJECTIVES: The aims of this study were to measure levels of sleep, stress, and depression, as well as health-related quality of life, and to assess the neurocognitive profiles in a sample of adolescents with idiopathic musculoskeletal pain. METHODS: Nineteen adolescents with idiopathic musculoskeletal pain and 20 age-matched healthy control subjects were evaluated regarding their levels of sleep and stress, as well as quality of life, and underwent neurocognitive testing. RESULTS: The sample groups consisted predominantly of females (84%), and the socioeconomic status did not differ between the two groups. In addition, the occurrence of depressive symptoms was similar between the two groups; specifically, 26% of the idiopathic musculoskeletal pain patients and 30% of the control subjects had scores indicative of depression. Teenagers in the group with idiopathic musculoskeletal pain reported poorer quality of life and sleep scores than those in the control group. Regarding stress, patients had worse scores than the control group; whereas 79% of the adolescents with idiopathic musculoskeletal pain met the criteria for a diagnosis of stress, only 35% of the adolescents in the control group met the criteria. In both groups, we observed scores that classified adolescents as being in the resistance phase (intermediate) and exhaustion phase (pathological) of distress. However, the idiopathic musculoskeletal pain group more frequently reported symptomatic complaints of physical and emotional distress. The neurocognitive assessment showed no significant impairments in either group. CONCLUSION: Adolescents with idiopathic musculoskeletal pain did not exhibit cognitive impairments. However, adolescents with idiopathic musculoskeletal pain did experience intermediate to advanced psychological distress and lower health-related quality of life, which may increase their risk of cognitive dysfunction in the future.