Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on psychosocial health in rheumatic patients: A longitudinal study.

AIM: To describe the impact of the COVID-19 on the psychosocial health of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), spondyloarthritis (SpA), and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). DESIGN: Longitudinal observational study of a series of patients with rheumatic disease. METHODS: The main outcome measure was impairment of the ability to participate in social activities, as measured using the PROMIS-APS instrument Short Form-8a. We evaluated social activities in various settings and performed a multivariate analysis to study the association between worsening of social participation during the COVID-19 pandemic and implicated factors. RESULTS: One hundred and twenty-five patients had completed the prospective follow-up: 40 with AR (32%), 42 with SpA (33.6%), and 43 with SLE (34.4%). Overall, poorer mean PROMIS scores were recorded after the COVID-19 pandemic for: satisfaction with social roles (p=0.029), depression (p=0.039), and ability to participate in social activities (p=0.024). The factors associated with ability to participate in social activities after the COVID-19 pandemic were older age (ß=-0.215; p=0.012), diagnosis of SLE (ß=-0.203; p=0.015), depression (ß=-0.295; p=0.003) and satisfaction with social roles (ß=0.211; p=0.037). CONCLUSION: The ability to participate in social activities after the COVID-19 pandemic is affected in patients with rheumatic disease, especially in SLE.

The relationship between dietary inflammatory index scores and rheumatoid arthritis disease activity.

INTRODUCTION: Many patients diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) report relief of symptoms after consuming certain foods. Diet plays a vital role in rheumatoid arthritis-related inflammation regulation. This study investigates the relationship between dietary inflammation index (DII) scores and RA disease activity. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty-one RA patients were enrolled in the study. The general inflammatory index of the diet was analyzed by recording the 24-h food consumption of the patients, and the nutrients were analyzed using the Nutrition Information Systems Package Program. Dietary inflammatory indices were calculated for each patient using the patients' macro and micronutrient intake levels. RA disease activity was assessed using the Disease Activity Score-28 (DAS-28). RESULTS: The DAS-28 score was lower in the anti-inflammatory diet group compared to the pro-inflammatory diet group (p=0.163). A weak but significant relationship was found between diet inflammation index score and DAS-28 (r=0.3468, p=0.0263). The effect of the dietary inflammatory index on the DAS-28 was 12.02%. Dietary iron, vitamin C, niacin, and magnesium intakes were statistically significantly higher in the quartile group that received an anti-inflammatory diet than in the quartile group that received a pro-inflammatory diet. The intake of some micronutrients, such as iron, zinc, magnesium, and folic acid, was significantly lower than the recommended values in all RA quartile groups. CONCLUSION: Our results suggest that reducing inflammation through the diet may have a weak but significant effect in controlling disease activity in RA patients.

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.

Delphi consensus on the use of telemedicine in rheumatology: RESULTAR study.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: There is growing interest in the potential of telemedicine (TM) as an alternative to physical consultation. Although numerous studies prove the benefits of TM in rheumatology, there are no recommendations on its implementation in Spain. The aim of this study was to analyze the application of TM in rheumatology consultations in Spain. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Qualitative, cross-sectional, multicenter study with Delphi methodology in two rounds of queries. A structured ad hoc questionnaire was designed that included statements on teleconsultation, nursing teleconsultation, telecare, telerehabilitation, teleradiology, telehealth tele-education, main barriers, advantages and disadvantages of telehealth tele-education and TM in rheumatoid arthritis. The participants were rheumatology specialists practicing in Spain. RESULTS: The participating rheumatologists (N = 80) had a mean age of 42.4 (±9.0) years, with 12.6 (±8.4) years of experience. Some of the aspects of TM that obtained the greatest consensus were: TM is useful for follow-up of some patients, to help determine if a face-to-face consultation is necessary, or to assist patients with rheumatoid arthritis if they present low activity or in remission; certain patients, such as those in their first consultation or those who present digital barriers or cognitive deterioration, should be seen face-to-face; TM presents some technical and patient access barriers; TM can be useful in nursing and in continued medical education. CONCLUSIONS: TM can be beneficial for the treatment and follow-up of patients with rheumatic diseases, as well as for alleviating the face-to-face care burden in rheumatology.

Levels of sCD163 in women rheumatoid arthritis: Relationship with cardiovascular risk markers.

AIM: The soluble scavenger receptor differentiation antigen 163 (sCD163), a monocyte/macrophage activation marker, is related to cardiovascular mortality in the general population. This study aimed to evaluate their relationship between serum levels of sCD163 with cardiovascular risk indicators in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). METHODS: A cross-sectional study was performed on 80 women diagnosed with RA. The cardiovascular risks were determined using the lipid profile, metabolic syndrome, and QRISK3 calculator. For the assessment of RA activity, we evaluated the DAS28 with erythrocyte sedimentation rate (DAS28-ESR). The serum levels of sCD163 were determined by the ELISA method. Logistic regression models and receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve were used to assess the association and predictive value of sCD163 with cardiovascular risk in RA patients. RESULTS: Levels of sCD163 were significantly higher in RA patients with high sensitivity protein C-reactive to HDL-c ratio (CHR)≥0.121 (p=0.003), total cholesterol/HDL-c ratio>7% (p=0.004), LDL-c/HDL-c ratio>3% (p=0.035), atherogenic index of plasma>0.21 (p=0.004), cardiometabolic index (CMI)≥1.70 (p=0.005), and high DAS28-ESR (p=0.004). In multivariate analysis, levels of sCD163≥1107.3ng/mL were associated with CHR≥0.121 (OR=3.43, p=0.020), CMI≥1.70 (OR=4.25, p=0.005), total cholesterol/HDL-c ratio>7% (OR=6.63, p=0.044), as well as with DAS28-ESR>3.2 (OR=8.10, p=0.008). Moreover, levels of sCD163 predicted CHR≥0.121 (AUC=0.701), cholesterol total/HDL ratio>7% (AUC=0.764), and DAS28-ESR>3.2 (AUC=0.720). CONCLUSION: Serum levels of sCD163 could be considered a surrogate of cardiovascular risk and clinical activity in RA.

Subluxación atlantoaxial en artritis reumatoidea. Resolución por odontoidectomía endonasal endoscópica y fusión e instrumentación por abordaje posterior. Reporte de caso

La subluxación atlantoaxial es la lesión más frecuente en la columna cervical causada por la artritis reumatoidea. Se manifiesta por rigidez de nuca, dolor cervical y déficit neurológico. El diagnóstico se realiza con tomografía computarizada e imágenes de resonancia magnética. El intervalo atlanto dental anterior mayor a 5mm indica inestabilidad atlantoaxial, el intervalo atlanto dental posterior menor a 14mm advierte riesgo neurológico. Las indicaciones más frecuentes de cirugía son: dolor cervical severo, inestabilidad y síntomas de mielopatía. Cuando existe compresión medular es necesaria la descompresión cervical alta sea por vía posterior o por vía anterior (odontoidectomía endonasal versus transoral). La línea rinopalatina nos indicará la factibilidad de una odontoidectomía endonasal endoscópica (OEE). El objetivo de la presentación del presente caso es compartir nuestra experiencia con la primera odontoidectomía endonasal endoscópica realizada en nuestro país y fomentar la utilización de la técnica. La cirugía fue realizada en un paciente con cuadriparesia espástica por subluxación atlantoaxial por artritis reumatoidea y que presentó excelente evolución pos operatoria, con recuperación casi completa. La OEE es una técnica operatoria mínimamente invasiva, ideal para pacientes con múltiples comorbilidades y que ofrece de buenos a excelentes resultados.

Atlantoaxial subluxation is the most common injury to the cervical spine caused by rheumatoid arthritis. It is manifested by neck stiffness, neck pain and neurological deficit. Diagnosis is made with computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. The anterior dental atlanto interval greater than 5mm indicates atlantoaxial instability, the posterior dental atlanto interval less than 14mm warns of neurological risk. The most frequent indications for surgery are: severe neck pain, instability and symptoms of myelopathy. When there is spinal cord compression, upper cervical decompression is necessary, either via a posterior or anterior approach (endonasal versus transoral odontoidectomy). The rhinopalatine line will indicate the feasibility of an endoscopic endonasal odontoidectomy (EEO). The objective of the presentation of this case is to share our experience with the first endoscopic endonasal odontoidectomy performed in our country and to promote the use of the technique. The surgery was performed on a patient with spastic quadriparesis due to atlantoaxial subluxation due to rheumatoid arthritis and who presented excellent postoperative evolution, with almost complete recovery. EEO is a minimally invasive surgical technique, ideal for patients with multiple comorbidities and offering good to excellent results.

Cognitive dysfunction, depression and serum level of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in Egyptian patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

AIM OF THE WORK: To evaluate serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in Egyptian patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and its relation with cognitive dysfunction. PATIENTS AND METHODS: The study was carried out on 60 RA patients; 30 were active (group A) and 30 were non active (group B); and 30 controls (group C). RA disease activity was assessed via DAS28 tool, cognitive function via The Montreal Cognitive Assessment and depression via the PHQ depression scale. Serum BDNF levels were measured. RESULTS: The mean age in group A was 37.8 (±9.37) years with 83.3% females, in group B was 39.97 (±8.04) years with 86.7% females and in group C was 33.17 (±3.6) years with 93.3% females. Abnormal cognitive functions test was detected in 66.7% of group A, 66.7% of group B, and in 23.3% of group C. There was a statistically significant difference in BDNF serum level between both groups of patients (1.58±0.9ng/ml for group A, 1.81±1.17ng/ml for group B) compared with the control group (3.01±1.25ng/ml, p<0.001). There was no statistically significant difference between BDNF and both disease duration and cognitive function, also no statistically significant difference regarding cognitive function, depression, and BNDF levels in patients with and without fibromyalgia. At a cut-off value of <2ng/ml, BDNF detected RA patients with cognitive dysfunction with a sensitivity of 80%, specificity of 96.67%. CONCLUSION: BDNF can be a potential biomarker of cognitive dysfunction in RA patients.

Cognitive dysfunction, depression and serum level of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in Egyptian patients with rheumatoid arthritis / Disfunción cognitiva, depresión y nivel sérico del factor neurotrófico derivado del cerebro (BDNF) en pacientes egipcios con artritis reumatoide

Aim of the work: To evaluate serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in Egyptian patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and its relation with cognitive dysfunction. Patients and methods: The study was carried out on 60 RA patients; 30 were active (group A) and 30 were non active (group B); and 30 controls (group C). RA disease activity was assessed via DAS28 tool, cognitive function via The Montreal Cognitive Assessment and depression via the PHQ depression scale. Serum BDNF levels were measured. Results: The mean age in group A was 37.8 (±9.37) years with 83.3% females, in group B was 39.97 (±8.04) years with 86.7% females and in group C was 33.17 (±3.6) years with 93.3% females. Abnormal cognitive functions test was detected in 66.7% of group A, 66.7% of group B, and in 23.3% of group C. There was a statistically significant difference in BDNF serum level between both groups of patients (1.58±0.9ng/ml for group A, 1.81±1.17ng/ml for group B) compared with the control group (3.01±1.25ng/ml, p<0.001). There was no statistically significant difference between BDNF and both disease duration and cognitive function, also no statistically significant difference regarding cognitive function, depression, and BNDF levels in patients with and without fibromyalgia. At a cut-off value of <2ng/ml, BDNF detected RA patients with cognitive dysfunction with a sensitivity of 80%, specificity of 96.67%. Conclusion: BDNF can be a potential biomarker of cognitive dysfunction in RA patients.(AU)

Objetivo: Evaluar el factor neurotrófico derivado del cerebro (BDNF) en suero en pacientes egipcios con artritis reumatoide (AR) y su relación con la disfunción cognitiva. Pacientes y métodos: El estudio se realizó en 60 pacientes con AR; 30 eran activos (grupo A) y 30 no activos (grupo B); y 30 controles (grupo C). La actividad de la enfermedad de AR se evaluó a través de la herramienta DAS28, la función cognitiva a través de la Evaluación Cognitiva de Montreal y la depresión a través de la escala de depresión PHQ. Se midieron los niveles de BDNF en suero. Resultados: La edad media en el grupo A fue de 37,8 (±9,37) años con 83,3% de mujeres, en el grupo B de 39,97 (±8,04) años con 86,7% de mujeres y en el grupo C de 33,17 (±3,6) años con 93,3% de mujeres. La prueba de funciones cognitivas anormales se detectó en 66,7% del grupo A, 66,7% del grupo B y 23,3% del grupo C. Hubo una diferencia estadísticamente significativa en el nivel sérico de BDNF entre ambos grupos de pacientes (1,58±0,9ng/mL para grupo A, 1,81±1,17ng/mL para el grupo B) en comparación con el grupo control (3,01±1,25ng/mL, p<0,001). No hubo diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre el BDNF y la duración de la enfermedad y la función cognitiva, tampoco hubo diferencias estadísticamente significativas con respecto a la función cognitiva, la depresión y los niveles de BDNF en pacientes con y sin fibromialgia. A un valor de corte de <2ng/mL, BDNF detectó pacientes con AR con disfunción cognitiva con una sensibilidad de 80% y una especificidad de 96,67%. Conclusión: BDNF puede ser un biomarcador potencial de disfunción cognitiva en pacientes con AR.(AU)

The impact of COVID-19 and other factors on the usage status of the biologic drug therapies for rheumatoid arthritis: A study from Vietnam.

OBJECTIVES: To describe the status of using biological Disease Modifying Anti Rheumatic Drugs (bDMARDs) to treat rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and related factors. In addition, the study determined the impact of COVID-19 on the usage of bDMARDs. METHODS: This is a cross-sectional study and included 219 RA patients over 18 years old. The Kaplan-Meier method and the log-rank test (p<0.05) were used to estimate the retention time and compare between different times. Cox regression analysis was used to determine the factors affecting the retention time of biological drugs (p<0.05). RESULTS: Out of 1967 courses of treatment, there were 149 (7.6%) drug discontinuations, 760 (38.6%) doses extensions and 64 (3.3%) drug switch. Moderate disease level and choosing tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors initially were associated with retention time of COVID-19. Drug discontinuations and dose extensions increased after COVID-19 emergence. The retention time during COVID-19 was significantly different from that of pre-COVID-19. Gender, type of first-used bDMARD, conventional synthetic DMARDs (csDMARDs) and corticoid usage status, disease activity levels were associated with retention time. CONCLUSION: The presence of COVID-19 has a significant effect on usage status of the biologic drug. Further longitudinal studies are needed to clarify the relationship between COVID-19 and drug usage as well as related factors.

Cardiovascular event in a cohort of rheumatoid arthritis patients in Castilla-La Mancha: Utility of carotid ultrasound.

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) has a mortality rate 1,3 to 3 times higher than the general population, with cardiovascular mortality accounting for 40-50% of cases. Currently, cardiovascular disease is considered an extraarticular manifestation of RA (OR: 1,5-4,0). Ultrasound measurement of the intima-media thickness (IMT) of the common carotid artery and the presence of atherosclerotic plaques (AP) is a non-invasive method and a surrogate marker of subclinical arteriosclerosis. OBJECTIVE: To determine if subclinical arteriosclerosis findings through carotid ultrasound can serve as a good predictor of cardiovascular events (CVE) development in a cohort of RA patients over a 10-year period. METHODOLOGY: A cohort of RA patients seen in the Rheumatology outpatient clinic of a hospital in Castilla La Mancha in 2013 was evaluated. A prospective evaluation for the development of CVE over the following 10 years was conducted, and its correlation with previous ultrasound findings of IMT and AP was analyzed. RESULTS: Eight (24%) patients experienced a CVE. Three (9%) had heart failure, three (9%) had a stroke, and two (6%) experienced acute myocardial infarction. RA patients who developed a CVE had a higher IMT (0,97 +/- 0.08 mm) compared to the RA patients without CV complications (0,74 +/- 0.15 mm) (p = 0,003). The presence of IMT ≥ 0.9 mm and AP had a relative risk of 12,25 (p = 0,012) and 18,66 (p = 0,003), respectively, for the development of a CVE. CONCLUSIONS: Carotid ultrasound in RA patients may allow for early detection of subclinical atherosclerosis before the development of CVE, with IMT ≥ 0.9 mm being the most closely associated finding with CVE, unaffected by age.

Pseudoseptic arthritis as a complication of intra-articular infiltration of hyaluronic acid in a patient with rheumatoid arthritis.

Pseudoseptic arthritis is a rare complication of hyaluronic acid (HA) injections that often is difficult to differentiate from septic arthritis. Patients present acute pain, swelling and joint effusion normally around 24h after the second or third HA infiltration. We describe a female patient with seropositive rheumatoid arthritis and flare-ups of knee arthritis with pseudoseptic features in the past, who develops pseudoseptic arthritis of the knee following her first injection of hyaluronic acid.

Elderly-onset rheumatoid arthritis receives less aggressive therapies than young-onset rheumatoid arthritis in an Argentinian cohort.

OBJECTIVES: When rheumatoid arthritis (RA) starts after the age of 60 it is called elderly-onset rheumatoid arthritis (EORA) and when it starts earlier, young-onset rheumatoid arthritis. (YORA). There are few Latin American studies that compared both groups. The objective of the study was to evaluate differences in the clinical characteristics, evolution and treatment among patients with RA with onset before or after 60 years of age. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Observational study of patients with RA attended consecutively in four centers in Argentina. Sociodemographic data, comorbidities, clinical manifestations at diagnosis, presence of rheumatoid factor and/or anti-CCP (cyclic citrullinated peptide) and treatments received were collected. At the last visit, swollen and tender joints, assessment of disease activity by the patient and physician, the presence of radiographic erosions, and functional status using the HAQ-DI were recorded. RESULTS: 51 patients from each group were analyzed. The EORA group had a significantly higher proportion of smokers (58.8% vs. 35.3%, p = 0.029), cardiovascular history (54.9% vs. 21.6%, p = 0.001), abrupt onset (49% vs. 29.4%, p = 0.034) or with symptoms similar to PMR (19.6% vs. 0%, p = 0.001). Lower methotrexate doses were used in the EORA group: 19 mg (15-25) vs. 21.9 mg (20-25) (p = 0.0036) and more frequently did not receive bDMARDs or tsDMARDs. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS: The benefits of intensive treatment in patients with RA have been described. In this study, the use of DMARDs in the EORA group was less intensive, suggesting that advanced age constitutes a barrier in the therapeutic choice.

The impact of COVID-19 and other factors on the usage status of the biologic drug therapies for rheumatoid arthritis: A study from Vietnam / El impacto de COVID-19 y otros factores en el estado de uso de las terapias farmacológicas biológicas para la artritis reumatoide: un estudio de Vietnam

Objectives: To describe the status of using biological Disease Modifying Anti Rheumatic Drugs (bDMARDs) to treat rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and related factors. In addition, the study determined the impact of COVID-19 on the usage of bDMARDs. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study and included 219 RA patients over 18 years old. The Kaplan–Meier method and the log-rank test (p<0.05) were used to estimate the retention time and compare between different times. Cox regression analysis was used to determine the factors affecting the retention time of biological drugs (p<0.05). Results: Out of 1967 courses of treatment, there were 149 (7.6%) drug discontinuations, 760 (38.6%) doses extensions and 64 (3.3%) drug switch. Moderate disease level and choosing tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors initially were associated with retention time of COVID-19. Drug discontinuations and dose extensions increased after COVID-19 emergence. The retention time during COVID-19 was significantly different from that of pre-COVID-19. Gender, type of first-used bDMARD, conventional synthetic DMARDs (csDMARDs) and corticoid usage status, disease activity levels were associated with retention time. Conclusion: The presence of COVID-19 has a significant effect on usage status of the biologic drug. Further longitudinal studies are needed to clarify the relationship between COVID-19 and drug usage as well as related factors.(AU)

Objetivos: Describir el estado del uso de fármacos antirreumáticos modificadores de la enfermedad biológica (bDMARD) para tratar la artritis reumatoide (AR) y los factores relacionados. Además, el estudio determinó el impacto de COVID-19 en el uso de bDMARD. Métodos: Este es un estudio transversal que incluyó a 219 pacientes con AR mayores de 18 años. El método Kaplan-Meier y la prueba Log-rank (p<0,05) se usaron para estimar el tiempo de retención y compararlo entre diferentes tiempos. El análisis de regresión de Cox se utilizó para determinar los factores que afectan el tiempo de retención de los medicamentos biológicos (p<0,05). Resultados: De 1.967 cursos de tratamiento, hubo 149 (7,6%) interrupciones del fármaco, 760 (38,6%) extensiones de dosis y 64 (3,3%) cambios de fármaco. Nivel de enfermedad moderado y elección del factor de necrosis tumoral (TNF) inhibidores inicialmente se asociaron con el tiempo de retención de COVID-19. Las discontinuaciones de los medicamentos y las extensiones de las dosis aumentaron después de la aparición de COVID-19. El tiempo de retención durante COVID-19 fue significativamente diferente del pre-COVID-19. Género, tipo de bDMARD de primer uso, convencional DMARD sintéticos (csDMARDs) y el estado de uso de corticoides, los niveles de actividad de la enfermedad se asociaron con el tiempo de retención. Conclusión: La presencia de COVID-19 tiene un efecto significativo en el estado de uso del medicamento biológico. Se necesitan más estudios longitudinales para aclarar la relación entre COVID-19 y el uso de fármacos, así como los factores relacionados.(AU)

La artritis reumatoide de inicio en el anciano recibe terapias menos agresivas que la artritis reumatoide de inicio en el adulto en una cohorte argentina / Elderly-onset rheumatoid arthritis receives less aggressive therapies than young-onset rheumatoid arthritis in an Argentinian cohort

Antecedentes y objetivo: Cuando la artritis reumatoide (AR) comienza después de los 60años se denomina artritis reumatoide de inicio en el anciano, y cuando se inicia antes, artritis reumatoide de inicio en el adulto. Son escasos los estudios latinoamericanos que compararon ambos grupos. El objetivo del estudio fue evaluar diferencias en las características clínicas, en la evolución y en la elección terapéutica entre los pacientes con AR de inicio antes o después de los 60años. Materiales y métodos: Estudio observacional de pacientes con AR atendidos en forma consecutiva en cuatro centros de Argentina. Se recolectaron datos sociodemográficos, comorbilidades, manifestaciones clínicas al diagnóstico, presencia de factor reumatoide y/o anti-proteínas cíclicas citrulinadas (PCC) y tratamientos recibidos. En la última visita se registraron las articulaciones tumefactas o dolorosas, la evaluación de la actividad de la enfermedad por el paciente y por el médico, la presencia de erosiones radiográficas y el estado funcional mediante el HAQ-DI. Resultados: Se analizaron 51 pacientes de cada grupo. El grupo de AR del anciano tuvo significativamente mayor proporción de fumadores (58,8% vs 35,3%, p=0,029), de antecedentes cardiovasculares (54,9% vs 21,6%, p=0,001), de inicio abrupto (49% vs 29,4%, p=0,034) o con síntomas similares a la PMR (19,6% vs 0%, p=0,001), menores dosis de metotrexato: 19mg (15-25) vs 21,9mg (20-25) (p=0,0036) y con mayor frecuencia no recibieron FAMEb o FAMEsd. Discusión y conclusiones: Se han descrito los beneficios del tratamiento intensivo en pacientes con AR. En este trabajo, el empleo de FAME en el grupo de AR de inicio en el anciano fue menos intensivo, sugiriendo que la edad avanzada constituye una barrera en la elección terapéutica.(AU)

Objectives: When rheumatoid arthritis (RA) starts after the age of 60 it is called elderly-onset rheumatoid arthritis (EORA) and when it starts earlier, young-onset rheumatoid arthritis (YORA). There are few Latin American studies that compared both groups. The objective of the study was to evaluate differences in the clinical characteristics, evolution and treatment among patients with RA with onset before or after 60years of age. Materials and methods: Observational study of patients with RA attended consecutively in four centers in Argentina. Sociodemographic data, comorbidities, clinical manifestations at diagnosis, presence of rheumatoid factor and/or anti-CCP (cyclic citrullinated peptide) and treatments received were collected. At the last visit, swollen and tender joints, assessment of disease activity by the patient and physician, the presence of radiographic erosions, and functional status using the HAQ-DI were recorded. Results: Fifty-one patients from each group were analyzed. The EORA group had a significantly higher proportion of smokers (58.8% vs. 35.3%, P=.029), cardiovascular history (54.9% vs. 21.6%, P=.001), abrupt onset (49% vs. 29.4%, P=.034) or with symptoms similar to PMR (19.6% vs. 0%, P=.001). Lower methotrexate doses were used in the EORA group: 19mg (15-25) vs. 21.9mg (20-25) (P=.0036) and more frequently did not receive bDMARDs or tsDMARDs. Discussion and conclusions: The benefits of intensive treatment in patients with RA have been described. In this study, the use of DMARDs in the EORA group was less intensive, suggesting that advanced age constitutes a barrier in the therapeutic choice.(AU)

Evento cardiovascular en una cohorte de pacientes con artritis reumatoide en Castilla-La Mancha, utilidad de la ecografía carotídea / Cardiovascular event in a cohort of rheumatoid arthritis patients in Castilla-La Mancha: Utility of carotid ultrasound

La artritis reumatoide (AR) presenta una mortalidad de 1,3-3 veces superior a la población general donde destaca la mortalidad de origen cardiovascular con un 40-50%. Actualmente se considera la enfermedad cardiovascular como una manifestación extraarticular de la AR, siendo un factor de riesgo independiente de los tradicionales, con un riesgo elevado de enfermedad cardiovascular (OR: 1,5-4,0). La medición ecográfica del grosor íntimo medial (GIM) de la arteria carótida común y la presencia de placas ateromatosas es un método no invasivo y marcador subrogado de arterioesclerosis subclínica. Objetivo: Establecer si los hallazgos de arterioesclerosis subclínica por ecografía carotídea pueden ser un buen predictor del desarrollo de eventos cardiovasculares (ECV) en una cohorte de pacientes con AR a 10 años. Metodología: Se evaluó una cohorte de pacientes con AR atendidos en consulta externa de Reumatología de una hospital de Castilla-La Mancha durante el año 2013. Se realizó una evaluación para el desarrollo de ECV a los 10 años siguientes de comenzado el estudio y se analizó su correlación con los hallazgos ecográficos previos de GIM y placas ateromatosas. Resultados: Ocho (24%) pacientes presentaron un ECV. Tres (9%), episodio de fallo cardiaco; 3 (9%) accidente cerebrovascular y 2 (6%) episodio de infarto agudo al miocardio. Los pacientes con AR que desarrollaron un ECV habían presentado un GIM mayor (0,97±0,08mm) en comparación con los pacientes con AR que no tuvieron complicaciones cardiovasculares (0,74±0,15mm) (p=0,003). La presencia de un GIM≥0,9mm y placas ateromatosas representó un riesgo relativo de 12,25 (p=0,012) y 18,66 (p=0,003), respectivamente, para el desarrollo de un ECV. Conclusiones: La ecografía carotídea en pacientes con AR nos podría permitir la detección precoz de aterosclerosis subclínica antes del desarrollo de ECV, siendo fundamentalmente el GIM≥0,9mm el hallazgo más asociado a ECV y no influenciado por la edad.(AU)

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) has a mortality rate 1.3–3 times higher than the general population, with cardiovascular mortality accounting for 40%–50% of cases. Currently, cardiovascular disease is considered an extra-articular manifestation of RA (OR: 1.5–4.0). Ultrasound measurement of the intima-media thickness (IMT) of the common carotid artery and the presence of atherosclerotic plaques is a non-invasive method and a surrogate marker of subclinical arteriosclerosis. Objective: To determine if subclinical arteriosclerosis findings through carotid ultrasound can serve as a good predictor of cardiovascular events (CVE) development in a cohort of RA patients over a 10-year period. Methodology: A cohort of RA patients seen in the rheumatology outpatient clinic of a hospital in Castilla-La Mancha in 2013 was evaluated. A prospective evaluation for the development of CVE over the following 10 years was conducted, and its correlation with previous ultrasound findings of IMT and atherosclerotic plaques was analyzed. Results: Eight (24%) patients experienced a CVE. Three (9%) had heart failure, three (9%) had a stroke, and two (6%) experienced acute myocardial infarction. RA patients who developed a CVE had a higher IMT (0.97±0.08mm) compared to the RA patients without cardiovascular complications (0.74±0.15mm) (P=.003). The presence of IMT≥0.9mm and atherosclerotic plaques had a relative risk of 12.25 (P=.012) and 18.66 (P=.003), respectively, for the development of a CVE. Conclusions: Carotid ultrasound in RA patients may allow for early detection of subclinical atherosclerosis before the development of CVE, with IMT≥0.9mm being the most closely associated finding with CVE, unaffected by age.(AU)

Artritis pseudoséptica como complicación de infiltración intraarticular de ácido hialurónico en una paciente con artritis reumatoide / Pseudoseptic arthritis as a complication of intra-articular infiltration of hyaluronic acid in a patient with rheumatoid arthritis

La artritis pseudoséptica es una complicación infrecuente de las inyecciones intraarticulares de ácido hialurónico que puede ser difícil de diferenciar de la artritis séptica. Los pacientes presentan dolor agudo y derrame articular, alrededor de 24 h después de la segunda o tercera infiltración. Presentamos el caso de una paciente con artritis reumatoide seropositiva y brotes previos de artritis pseudosépticas de rodilla que ha desarrollado una artritis de rodilla de características similares después de su primera inyección de ácido hialurónico.(AU)

Pseudoseptic arthritis is a rare complication of hyaluronic acid injections that often is difficult to differentiate from septic arthritis. Patients present acute pain, swelling and joint effusion normally around 24h after the second or third infiltration. We describe a female patient with seropositive rheumatoid arthritis and flare-ups of knee arthritis with pseudoseptic features in the past, who develops pseudoseptic arthritis of the knee following her first injection of hyaluronic acid.(AU)

Clinical features of patients with hands arthralgia referred from primary care physicians to rheumatologists: A cohort study.

PURPOSE: Early referral of patients with suspicious of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) has an impact on prognosis. Our study aimed to evaluate the clinical characteristics of patients with hands arthralgia who were referred from primary care physicians (PCP) to the rheumatologist. METHODS: A descriptive, observational, prospective cohort study was performed. We included patients who visited a PCP for the first time for hands arthralgia. Demographics and the European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology criteria for arthralgia suspicious for progression to RA plus seven complementary questions, the time to referral, the pressure needed to provoke pain with an automatic squeeze test machine in the metacarpophalangeal joints of both hands, and the diagnoses established at the last review of medical charts from patients on follow-up were documented. The primary outcome was the referral to a rheumatologist. RESULTS: A total of 109 patients were included. The mean age was 49.9 years, 81.6% were women. 30.3% were referred to the rheumatologist. The time to referral was a median of 38 days. The main clinical characteristics associated with referral to the rheumatologist were the "most severe symptoms are present after midnight" (OR=6.29) and the "difficulty with making a fist" (OR=3.67). An isolated "positive squeeze test of metacarpophalangeal joints" was not associated with a referral to the rheumatologist. CONCLUSIONS: Among patients with hands arthralgia who attended PCP, those with most severe symptoms after midnight and difficulty making a fist were more likely to be referred to the rheumatology clinic. Isolated positive squeeze tests are not a parameter for referral, it should only be performed if arthralgia is clinically suspected.

Clinical features of patients with hands arthralgia referred from primary care physicians to rheumatologists: A cohort study / Características clínicas de los pacientes con artralgia de manos que son referidos a la clínica de reumatología por médicos de atención primaria: un estudio de cohorte

Purpose: Early referral of patients with suspicious of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) has an impact on prognosis. Our study aimed to evaluate the clinical characteristics of patients with hands arthralgia who were referred from primary care physicians (PCP) to the rheumatologist.Methods: A descriptive, observational, prospective cohort study was performed. We included patients who visited a PCP for the first time for hands arthralgia. Demographics and the European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology criteria for arthralgia suspicious for progression to RA plus seven complementary questions, the time to referral, the pressure needed to provoke pain with an automatic squeeze test machine in the metacarpophalangeal joints of both hands, and the diagnoses established at the last review of medical charts from patients on follow-up were documented. The primary outcome was the referral to a rheumatologist. Results: A total of 109 patients were included. The mean age was 49.9 years, 81.6% were women. 30.3% were referred to the rheumatologist. The time to referral was a median of 38 days. The main clinical characteristics associated with referral to the rheumatologist were the “most severe symptoms are present after midnight” (OR=6.29) and the “difficulty with making a fist” (OR=3.67). An isolated “positive squeeze test of metacarpophalangeal joints” was not associated with a referral to the rheumatologist. Conclusions: Among patients with hands arthralgia who attended PCP, those with most severe symptoms after midnight and difficulty making a fist were more likely to be referred to the rheumatology clinic. Isolated positive squeeze tests are not a parameter for referral, it should only be performed if arthralgia is clinically suspected.(AU)

Objetivo: Derivar tempranamente a los pacientes con sospecha de artritis reumatoide (AR) tiene un impacto en su pronóstico. Nuestro estudio tuvo como objetivo evaluar las características clínicas de los pacientes con artralgia de manos que fueron remitidos desde médicos de atención primaria (MAP) al reumatólogo. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio de cohorte descriptivo, observacional, y prospectivo. Incluimos pacientes que acudieron con un MAP por artralgia de manos. Se documentaron criterios demográficos y de la European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR) para artralgia con sospecha de progresión a AR más siete preguntas complementarias, el tiempo de derivación, la presión necesaria para provocar dolor con una máquina automática que comprime las articulaciones metacarpofalángicas, y los diagnósticos establecidos en la última revisión documentados en los expedientes médicos de los pacientes en seguimiento. El resultado principal fue la referencia al reumatólogo. Resultados: Un total de 109 pacientes fueron incluidos. El promedio de edad fue de 49,9 años, 81,6% fueron mujeres, 30,3% fueron referidos al reumatólogo. El tiempo de derivación al reumatólogo tuvo una mediana de 38 días. Las principales características clínicas asociadas con lo anterior fueron: «síntomas más severos presentes después de la medianoche» (OR=6,29) y «dificultad para hacer un puño» (OR=3,67). Una «prueba de compresión positiva de las articulaciones metacarpofalángicas» aislada no se asoció con una derivación al reumatólogo. Conclusión: Entre los pacientes que acudieron con MAP por artralgia de manos, aquellos con síntomas más severos después de la medianoche y que refirieron dificultad para realizar un puño fueron más frecuentemente referidos a una clínica de reumatología. Sin embargo, una prueba de compresión aislada no fue útil para la derivación temprana.(AU)

Early appearance of radiolucent lines around total knee arthroplasty in rheumatoid arthritis patients. How does it impact the aseptic failure rate and functional outcomes at 13 years of follow-up? / [Artículo traducido] Aparición temprana de líneas radiolúcidas alrededor de la artroplastia total de rodilla en pacientes con artritis reumatoide. ¿Cuál es su impacto en la tasa de fracaso aséptico y los resultados funcionales a los 13 años de seguimiento?

INTRODUCTION: Aseptic total knee arthroplasty (TKA) failure has been associated with radiolucent lines. This study aimed to determine the impact of the early appearance of radiolucent lines (linear images of 1, 2, or > 2mm at the cement-bone interface) around the TKA on prosthetic survival and functional outcomes in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients during a 2-20 years follow-up. METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed a consecutive series of RA patients treated with TKA between 2000 and 2011. We comparatively analyzed patients with and without radiolucent lines around implants. Clinical outcomes were assessed with the knee society score (KSS) collected before surgery, at years 2, 5, and 10, and at the last postoperative follow-up. The knee society roentgenographic evaluation system was used to analyze the impact of radiolucent lines around the implants at 1, 2, 5, and more than ten years of follow-up. The reoperation and prosthetic survival rates were calculated at the end of the follow-up. RESULTS: The study series included 72 TKAs with a median follow-up of 13.2 years (range: 4.0-21.0), of which 16 (22.2%) had radiolucent lines. We did not observe aseptic failure, and prosthetic survival at the end of the study was 94.4% (n=68). The KSS improved significantly (p<0.001) between preoperative values at 2, 5, and 10 years and the end of follow-up, with no differences between patients with and without radiolucent lines. CONCLUSIONS: Our study demonstrates that the early appearance of radiolucent lines around a TKA in RA patients does not significantly impact prosthetic survival or long-term functional outcomes at 13 years of follow-up.

CXCL10 as a biomarker of interstitial lung disease in patients with rheumatoid arthritis / CXCL10 como biomarcador de enfermedad pulmonar intersticial en pacientes con artritis reumatoide

Introduction: Pulmonary involvement is a frequent and serious rheumatoid arthritis (RA) manifestation that affects 60%–80% of patients. CXCL10 is an inflammatory chemokine that regulates different biological responses, such as chemotaxis, angiogenesis, and inflammation. Aim: This study aimed to identify the role of CXCL10 as a peripheral blood marker of RA-ILD and its correlation with disease activity. Patients and methods: This cross-sectional study included 73 patients with RA (33 with ILD and 40 without ILD). Pulmonary function tests and high-resolution computed tomography were performed. Blood samples were taken for complete blood count and blood chemistry analysis, and human interferon-inducible protein 10 (IP-10/CXCL10) level. Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (version 22) was used for all statistical calculations. Results: The serum CXCL10 level and patient age (r=.393, p=.024), disease duration (r=.756, p<0.001), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (r=.516, p=.002), C-reactive protein (r=.539, p=.001), and rheumatoid factor (r=.663, p<.001) revealed a significant positive correlation. Furthermore, the Modified Health Assessment Questionnaire (r=−.418, p=.015) revealed a significant negative correlation. Patients with RA-ILD show significantly higher CXCL10 than those without ILD (p<.001). Conclusion: CXCL10 is a useful RA disease activity biomarker and is an RA-ILD-sensitive biomarker, also CXCL10 is a significant predictor for development of RA-ILD.(AU)

Introducción: La afección pulmonar es una manifestación frecuente y grave de la artritis reumatoide (AR) que afecta al 60-80% de los pacientes. CXCL10 es una quimiocina inflamatoria que regula diferentes respuestas biológicas, como la quimiotaxis, la angiogénesis y la inflamación. Propósito: Este estudio tuvo como objetivo identificar el papel de CXCL10 como marcador en sangre periférica de RA-ILD y su correlación con la actividad de la enfermedad. Pacientes y métodos: Estudio transversal que incluyó a 73 pacientes con AR (33 con EPI y 40 sin EPI). Se realizaron pruebas de función pulmonar y tomografía computarizada de alta resolución. Se tomaron muestras de sangre para hemograma completo y análisis de química sanguínea y el nivel de proteína 10 inducible por interferón humano (IP-10/CXCL10). Se utilizó el paquete estadístico para las ciencias sociales (versión 22) para todos los cálculos estadísticos. Resultados: El nivel sérico de CXCL10 y la edad del paciente (r=0,393, p=0,024), la duración de la enfermedad (r=0,756, p<0,001), la velocidad de sedimentación globular (r=0,516, p=0,002), la proteína C reactiva (r=0,539, p=0,001) y el factor reumatoide (r=0,663, p<0,001) revelaron una correlación positiva significativa. Además, el Cuestionario de Evaluación de la Salud Modificado (r=−0,418, p=0,015) reveló una correlación negativa significativa. Los pacientes con RA-ILD muestran un CXCL10 significativamente mayor que aquellos sin ILD (p<0,001). Conclusión: CXCL10 es un biomarcador útil de la actividad de la enfermedad de AR y es un biomarcador sensible a AR-ILD, también CXCL10 es un predictor significativo para el desarrollo de AR-ILD.(AU)