Severe restrictive lung disease in systemic sclerosis

2023 American College of Rheumatology (ACR)/American College of Chest Physicians (CHEST) Guideline for the Screening and Monitoring of Interstitial Lung Disease in People with Systemic Autoimmune Rheumatic Diseases

OBJECTIVE

We provide evidence-based recommendations regarding screening for interstitial lung disease (ILD) and the monitoring for ILD progression in people with systemic autoimmune rheumatic diseases (SARDs), specifically rheumatoid arthritis, systemic sclerosis, idiopathic inflammatory myopathies, mixed connective tissue disease, and Sjögren disease.

METHODS

We developed clinically relevant population, intervention, comparator, and outcomes questions related to screening and monitoring for ILD in patients with SARDs. A systematic literature review was performed, and the available evidence was rated using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation methodology. A Voting Panel of interdisciplinary clinician experts and patients achieved consensus on the direction and strength of each recommendation.

RESULTS

Fifteen recommendations were developed. For screening people with these SARDs at risk for ILD, we conditionally recommend pulmonary function tests (PFTs) and high-resolution computed tomography of the chest (HRCT chest); conditionally recommend against screening with 6-minute walk test distance (6MWD), chest radiography, ambulatory desaturation testing, or bronchoscopy; and strongly recommend against screening with surgical lung biopsy. We conditionally recommend monitoring ILD with PFTs, HRCT chest, and ambulatory desaturation testing and conditionally recommend against monitoring with 6MWD, chest radiography, or bronchoscopy. We provide guidance on ILD risk factors and suggestions on frequency of testing to evaluate for the development of ILD in people with SARDs.

CONCLUSION

This clinical practice guideline presents the first recommendations endorsed by the American College of Rheumatology and American College of Chest Physicians for the screening and monitoring of ILD in people with SARDs.

2023 American College of Rheumatology (ACR)/American College of Chest Physicians (CHEST) Guideline for the Screening and Monitoring of Interstitial Lung Disease in People with Systemic Autoimmune Rheumatic Diseases

OBJECTIVE

We provide evidence-based recommendations regarding screening for interstitial lung disease (ILD) and the monitoring for ILD progression in people with systemic autoimmune rheumatic diseases (SARDs), specifically rheumatoid arthritis, systemic sclerosis, idiopathic inflammatory myopathies, mixed connective tissue disease, and Sjögren disease.

METHODS

We developed clinically relevant population, intervention, comparator, and outcomes questions related to screening and monitoring for ILD in patients with SARDs. A systematic literature review was performed, and the available evidence was rated using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation methodology. A Voting Panel of interdisciplinary clinician experts and patients achieved consensus on the direction and strength of each recommendation.

RESULTS

Fifteen recommendations were developed. For screening people with these SARDs at risk for ILD, we conditionally recommend pulmonary function tests (PFTs) and high-resolution computed tomography of the chest (HRCT chest); conditionally recommend against screening with 6-minute walk test distance (6MWD), chest radiography, ambulatory desaturation testing, or bronchoscopy; and strongly recommend against screening with surgical lung biopsy. We conditionally recommend monitoring ILD with PFTs, HRCT chest, and ambulatory desaturation testing and conditionally recommend against monitoring with 6MWD, chest radiography, or bronchoscopy. We provide guidance on ILD risk factors and suggestions on frequency of testing to evaluate for the development of ILD in people with SARDs.

CONCLUSION

This clinical practice guideline presents the first recommendations endorsed by the American College of Rheumatology and American College of Chest Physicians for the screening and monitoring of ILD in people with SARDs.

Progressive pulmonary fibrosis and its impact on survival in systemic sclerosis-related interstitial lung disease

OBJECTIVE

To describe the frequency of progressive pulmonary fibrosis (PPF) in an incident cohort of systemic sclerosis (SSc)-related interstitial lung disease (ILD) and its impact on survival.

METHODS

Incident ILD was defined as the new development of characteristic fibrotic changes on chest HRCT scan. PPF was defined as per the 2022 American Thoracic Society. Determinants of PPF were identified using generalised estimating equations. Impact on survival was analysed using accelerated failure time regression modelling.

RESULTS

Of our incident SSc-ILD cases, 38.8% (n = 180) experienced PPF within a 12-month period after ILD diagnosis. Determinants of PPF included older age (OR 1.02, 95%CI 1.00-1.03, P = 0.011), dcSSc (OR 1.54, 95% CI 1.06-2.25, P = 0.024) and SSc-specific antibodies (anticentomere antibody OR 0.51, 95%CI 0.29-0.91, P = 0.021 and anti-Scl-70 antibody OR 1.46, 95%CI 1.01-2.09, P = 0.043). Raised CRP was numerically associated with PPF but did not reach statistical significance (OR 1.29, 95%CI 0.99-1.68, P = 0.064) nor did GORD or dysphagia (OR 1.18, 95%CI 0.57-2.42, P = 0.658 and OR 1.17, 95%CI 0.57-2.40, P = 0.664, respectively). The presence of PPF significantly impacted survival in SSc-ILD (hazard ratio 2.66, 95%CI 1.59-4.41, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

PPF occurred in a third of our incident SSc-ILD cohort; however, its occurrence was significantly associated with mortality indicating an at-risk group who may be suitable for earlier introduction of immunosuppressive and/or antifibrotic therapy.

The Value of Ultrasound for Detecting and Following Subclinical Interstitial Lung Disease in Systemic Sclerosis

BACKGROUND

Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is a complication in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc). Accurate strategies to identify its presence in early phases are essential. We conducted the study aiming to determine the validity of ultrasound (US) in detecting subclinical ILD in SSc, and to ascertain its potential in determining the disease progression.

METHODS

133 patients without respiratory symptoms and 133 healthy controls were included. Borg scale, Rodnan skin score (RSS), auscultation, chest radiographs, and respiratory function tests (RFT) were performed. A rheumatologist performed the lung US. High-resolution CT (HRCT) was also performed. The patients were followed every 12 weeks for 48 weeks.

RESULTS

A total of 79 of 133 patients (59.4%) showed US signs of ILD in contrast to healthy controls (4.8%) (p = 0.0001). Anti-centromere antibodies (p = 0.005) and RSS (p = 0.004) showed an association with ILD. A positive correlation was demonstrated between the US and HRCT findings (p = 0.001). The sensitivity and specificity of US in detecting ILD were 91.2% and 88.6%, respectively. In the follow-up, a total of 30 patients out of 79 (37.9%) who demonstrated US signs of ILD at baseline, showed changes in the ILD score by US.

CONCLUSIONS

US showed a high prevalence of subclinical ILD in SSc patients. It proved to be a valid, reliable, and feasible tool to detect ILD in SSc and to monitor disease progression.

Managing Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension With Cardiopulmonary Comorbidities

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and pulmonary hypertension associated with left-sided heart and lung diseases are most commonly easily discriminated and treated accordingly. With the changing epidemiology of PAH, however, a growing proportion of patients at the time of diagnosis present with comorbidities of varying severity. In addition to classical PAH, two distinct phenotypes have emerged: a heart failure with preserved ejection fraction-like phenotype and a lung phenotype. Importantly, the evidence supporting the currently proposed treatment algorithm for PAH has been generated mainly from PAH trials in which patients with cardiopulmonary comorbidities have been underrepresented or excluded. As a consequence, the best therapeutic approach for patients with common PAH with cardiopulmonary comorbidities remains largely unknown and requires further investigation. The present article reviews the relevant literature on the topic and describes the authors' views on the current therapeutic approach for these patients.

Absence of interstitial lung disease at initial visit may predict a favorable outcome for Japanese patients with systemic sclerosis with anti-topoisomerase I antibody

Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is recognized a prognostic factor and leading cause of death in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc). The aim of the present study is to clarify factors at an initial visit that are associated with the deterioration of ILD in SSc patients with anti-topoisomerase I (anti-topo I) antibodies. This was a single-center, retrospective, observational study. Fifty-three consecutive SSc patients with anti-topo I antibodies were included in this study. Of the 53 patients, 43 had ILD at their initial visit, whereas 10 did not. We examined the clinical and immunological factors at an initial visit that were associated with the deterioration of ILD. The deterioration of ILD was defined as the administration of intravenous cyclophosphamide (IVCY) therapy. In this cohort, 45 (85%) patients had ILD at the time of the final observation, and only two who did not have ILD at their initial visit developed ILD during the follow-up period. Until the final observation, 26 (49%) patients received IVCY therapy for the progression of ILD. The age at onset, disease duration, SSc subtype, and skin score were similar between patients with and those without IVCY therapy. Approximately 60% (26 of 43) of patients with ILD at their initial visit received IVCY therapy. On the other hand, none of the 10 patients without ILD at their initial visit received IVCY therapy. Our multivariate analyses using Cox proportional hazards regression model revealed that the presence of ILD at an initial visit was an independent factor associated with the introduction of IVCY therapy (odds ratio, 2.8e+7 [95% confidence interval, 1.8e+17-uncalculated], p = 0.0048). Although anti-topo I antibodies are strongly associated with ILD, it was unlikely for SSc patients with anti-topo I antibodies to receive IVCY therapy when they did not have ILD at an initial visit.

Systemic sclerosis and risk of bronchiectasis: a nationwide longitudinal cohort study

BACKGROUND

The association between systemic sclerosis and the development of bronchiectasis is unclear. This study aimed to compare the risk of bronchiectasis between individuals with systemic sclerosis and those without using a nationwide longitudinal dataset.

METHODS

Using the Korean National Health Insurance Service dataset between 2010 and 2017, we identified 4845 individuals aged ≥ 20 years with systemic sclerosis and 24,225 without systemic sclerosis who were matched 1:5 by age and sex. They were followed up until the date of a bronchiectasis diagnosis, death, or December 31, 2019, whichever came first.

RESULTS

During a median follow-up period of 6.0 (interquartile range, 3.2-8.7) years, 5.3% of the systemic sclerosis cohort and 1.9% of the matched cohort developed bronchiectasis, with incidence rates of 9.99 and 3.23 per 1000 person-years, respectively. Even after adjusting for potential confounders, the risk of incident bronchiectasis was significantly higher in the systemic sclerosis cohort than in the matched cohort (adjusted hazard ratio 2.63, 95% confidence interval 2.22-3.12). A subgroup analysis of individuals with systemic sclerosis revealed that the risk of incident bronchiectasis was notably higher in younger individuals aged 20-39 years (P for interaction = 0.048) and in those without other coexisting connective tissue diseases (P for interaction = 0.006) than in their counterparts.

CONCLUSIONS

The risk of incident bronchiectasis is higher in individuals with systemic sclerosis than those without. Bronchiectasis should be considered one of the pulmonary manifestations related to systemic sclerosis.

Anti-Ro52 positivity is associated with progressive interstitial lung disease in systemic sclerosis-an exploratory study

BACKGROUND

Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is the most common cause of death in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc). Prognostic biomarkers are needed to identify SSc-ILD patients at risk for progressive pulmonary fibrosis. This study investigates autoantibodies measured in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid and in serum in reference to the clinical disease course of SSc-ILD.

METHODS

Fifteen patients with new onset SSc-ILD underwent bronchoscopy. Autoantibody levels were analyzed using addressable laser bead immunoassay from BAL fluid and the serum. In a separate longitudinal cohort of 43 patients with early SSc-ILD, autoantibodies in serum were measured at baseline and pulmonary function tests were performed at least 2 times over the course of at least 2 or more years. Linear mixed effect models were created to investigate the relationship between specific autoantibodies and progression of SSc-ILD. Finally, lung tissue from healthy controls and from subjects with SSc was analyzed for the presence of the Ro52 antigen using immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

Among SSc-ILD patients who were positive for anti-Ro52 (N = 5), 3 (60%) had enrichment of anti-Ro52 in BAL fluid at a ratio exceeding 50x. In the longitudinal cohort, 10/43 patients (23%) were anti-Ro52 positive and 16/43 (37%) were anti-scl-70 positive. Presence of anti-Scl-70 was associated with a lower vital capacity (VC) at baseline (-12.6% predicted VC [%pVC]; 95%CI: -25.0, -0.29; p = 0.045), but was not significantly associated with loss of lung function over time (-1.07%pVC/year; 95%CI: -2.86, 0.71; p = 0.230). The presence of anti-Ro52 was significantly associated with the loss of lung function over time (-2.41%pVC/year; 95% CI: -4.28, -0.54; p = 0.013). Rate of loss of lung function increased linearly with increasing anti-Ro52 antibody levels (-0.03%pVC per arbitrary units/mL and year; 95%CI: -0.05, -0.02; p < 0.001). Immunohistochemical staining localized the Ro52 antigen to alveolar M2 macrophages in peripheral lung tissue both in subjects with and without SSc.

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests that antibodies targeting Ro52 are enriched in the lungs of patients with new-onset SSc-ILD, linking Ro52 autoimmunity to the pulmonary pathology of SSc. Clinical and immunohistochemical data corroborates these findings and suggest that anti-Ro52 may serve as a potential biomarker of progressive SSc-ILD.

Risk factors for lung function decline in systemic sclerosis-associated interstitial lung disease in a large single-centre cohort

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to identify risk factors of percent predicted forced vital capacity (ppFVC) decline in patients with SSc-associated interstitial lung disease (SSc-ILD).

METHODS

We identified 484 patients with SSc who had HRCT Chest, of which 312 with ILD. Those with serial pulmonary function tests were included in a longitudinal analysis (n = 184). Linear mixed effect models were fitted to assess the decline in ppFVC over time, and to explore the effect of demographics and baseline characteristics on ppFVC decline.

RESULTS

The majority of SSc-ILD patients were female (76.3%) and 51.3% had diffuse cutaneous subset. The mean (s.d.) age was 53.6 (12.7) years, median disease duration since first non-RP symptoms was 2.6 years, and 48.4% of the patients had ILD extent >20% on HRCT. In the univariate analysis, longer disease duration (>2.37 years), ILD extent >20%, and anti-topoisomerase I (ATA) positivity were significantly associated with ppFVC decline. In the multivariate analysis, the only statistically significant variable associated with ppFVC decline was ATA positivity. The overall group's mean decline in ppFVC was -0.28% (P-value 0.029), with -0.13% (n = 163) in those who were alive and -8.28% (P-value 0.0002 for the change in ppFVC trajectory) in patients who died within 2 years.

CONCLUSION

Our study confirms that ppFVC is a marker of survival in SSc-ILD, supporting its use for risk stratification to identify patients who may benefit from earlier interventions and treatment. Our study also supports the role of ATA positivity as a predictive marker for ppFVC decline in this population.

Systemic sclerosis associated interstitial lung disease: a conceptual framework for subclinical, clinical and progressive disease

OBJECTIVES

To establish a framework by which experts define disease subsets in systemic sclerosis associated interstitial lung disease (SSc-ILD).

METHODS

A conceptual framework for subclinical, clinical and progressive ILD was provided to 83 experts, asking them to use the framework and classify actual SSc-ILD patients. Each patient profile was designed to be classified by at least four experts in terms of severity and risk of progression at baseline; progression was based on 1-year follow-up data. A consensus was reached if ≥75% of experts agreed. Experts provided information on which items were important in determining classification.

RESULTS

Forty-four experts (53%) completed the survey. Consensus was achieved on the dimensions of severity (75%, 60 of 80 profiles), risk of progression (71%, 57 of 80 profiles) and progressive ILD (60%, 24 of 40 profiles). For profiles achieving consensus, most were classified as clinical ILD (92%), low risk (54%) and stable (71%). Severity and disease progression overlapped in terms of framework items that were most influential in classifying patients (forced vital capacity, extent of lung involvement on high resolution chest CT [HRCT]); risk of progression was influenced primarily by disease duration.

CONCLUSIONS

Using our proposed conceptual framework, international experts were able to achieve a consensus on classifying SSc-ILD patients along the dimensions of disease severity, risk of progression and progression over time. Experts rely on similar items when classifying disease severity and progression: a combination of spirometry and gas exchange and quantitative HRCT.

Long-term Outcomes After Rituximab Treatment for Patients With Systemic Sclerosis: Follow-up of the DESIRES Trial With a Focus on Serum Immunoglobulin Levels

Importance

Rituximab is emerging as a promising therapeutic option for systemic sclerosis (SSc), but its long-term outcomes and response markers are unknown.

Objective

To evaluate the long-term outcomes after rituximab treatment for SSc and identify potential response markers.

Design, Setting, and Participants

In this single-center cohort study, patients with SSc who continued to receive rituximab after the DESIRES trial were analyzed with a median follow-up of 96 weeks. Among the 43 patients who completed the DESIRES trial, 31 continued to receive rituximab, of which 29 with complete data were included in this study.

Exposures

Rituximab treatment.

Main Outcomes and Measures

A post hoc analysis of the clinical and laboratory data.

Results

In 29 patients with SSc (27 female [93%]; median [IQR] age, 48 [35-45] years), significant improvement in modified Rodnan skin score (MRSS) and percentage of predicted forced vital capacity (FVC%) were observed after 1 (median [IQR] change in MRSS, -7 [-8.5 to -4]; P < .001) and 3 (median [IQR] change in FVC% predicted, 1.85 [0.13-5.68]; P < .001) courses of rituximab, respectively, both of which were sustained during follow-up. High responders (MRSS improvement of ≥9; n = 16) experienced a greater decrease in serum levels of IgG (median [IQR] change in IgG, -125 [-207 to -83] vs 7 [-120 to 43]; P = .008) and IgA (median [IQR] change in IgA, -45 [-96 to -32] vs -11 [-20 to 3]; P < .001) compared with low responders (MRSS improvement of ≤8; n = 13). In particular, decrease in serum IgA levels significantly correlated with the improvement in MRSS (r = 0.64; P < .001). At the last follow-up, low IgM, low IgA, and low IgG was observed in 7, 1, and 1 patient, respectively, of which low IgM was associated with greater improvement in FVC% predicted (median [IQR] change in FVC% predicted, 7.2 [3.8-8.9] vs 3.6 [1.4-6.2]; P = .003).

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study, rituximab treatment was associated with significantly improved skin and lung fibrosis in SSc in a long-term follow-up. Decrease in serum immunoglobulins was associated with greater clinical response.

[Consensus guideline on the interdisciplinary diagnosis of interstitial lung diseases]

The evaluation of a patient with interstitial lung disease (ILD) includes assessment of clinical, radiological, and often histopathological data. As there were no specific recommendations to guide the evaluation of patients under the suspicion of an ILD within the German practice landscape, this position statement from an interdisciplinary panel of ILD experts provides guidance related to the diagnostic modalities which should be used in the evaluation of ILD. This includes clinical assessment rheumatological evaluation, radiological examinations, histopathologic sampling and the need for a final discussion in a multidisciplinary team.

Damage Trajectories in Systemic Sclerosis Using Group-Based Trajectory Modeling

OBJECTIVE

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disease characterized by progressive organ damage, which can be measured using the Scleroderma Clinical Trials Consortium Damage Index (SCTC-DI). We aimed to identify whether distinct trajectories of damage accrual exist and to determine which variables are associated with different trajectory groups.

METHODS

Incident cases of SSc (<2 years) were identified in the Australian Scleroderma Interest Group and Canadian Scleroderma Research Group prospective registries. Group-based trajectory modeling was used to identify SCTC-DI trajectories over the cohort's first 5 annual visits. Baseline variables associated with trajectory membership in a univariate analysis were examined in multivariable models.

RESULTS

A total of 410 patients were included. Three trajectory groups were identified: low (54.6%), medium (36.2%), and high (10.3%) damage. Patients with faster damage accrual had higher baseline SCTC-DI scores. Older age (odds ratio [OR] 1.57 [95% confidence interval (95% CI) 1.18-2.10]), male sex (OR 2.55 [95% CI 1.10-5.88]), diffuse disease (OR 6.7 [95% CI 2.57-17.48]), tendon friction rubs (OR 5.4 [95% CI 1.86-15.66]), and elevated C-reactive protein level (OR 1.98 [95% CI 1.49-2.63]) increased the odds of being in the high-damage group versus the reference (low damage), whereas White ethnicity (OR 0.31 [95% CI 0.12-0.75]) and anticentromere antibodies (OR 0.24 [95% CI 0.07-0.77]) decreased the odds.

CONCLUSION

We identified 3 trajectories of damage accrual in a combined incident SSc cohort. Several characteristics increased the odds of belonging to worse trajectories. These findings may be helpful in recognizing patients in whom early aggressive treatment is necessary.

Assessing dyspnea-related kinesiophobia in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc): validity and reliability of Turkish Breathlessness Beliefs Questionnaire for SSc

INTRODUCTION/OBJECTIVE

The respiratory system is often affected by systemic sclerosis (SSc), a connective tissue disease characterized by fibrosis, vasculopathy, and inflammation. As a result, especially exertional dyspnea may occur in SSc patients. Evaluation of attitudes towards dyspnea is important in terms of preventing negative consequences such as kinesiophobia. However, no validated tool is available for assessing dyspnea-related kinesiophobia for patients with SSc. The aim of the present study was to perform the Turkish validation of the Breathlessness Beliefs Questionnaire for SSc (BBQ-SSc), which was adapted from the Tampa Kinesiophobia Scale, and to investigate its relationships with physical and clinical characteristics.

METHOD

Fifty patients with SSc (47 females) were included in the study. The patients were evaluated regarding pulmonary function tests, respiratory muscle strength, patient-reported dyspnea, quality of life related to respiratory problems, mood, and fatigue. The patients were re-evaluated 1 week later for the test-retest reliability of the BBQ-SSc.

RESULTS

Internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha: 0.862) and test-retest validity (ICC: 0.831; 95% CI: 0.702-0.907) of the 12-item Turkish BBQ-SSc were found to be good. Principal component analysis confirmed the two-dimensional structure of the questionnaire. The scores of the questionnaire were associated with duration of illness, patient-reported dyspnea, quality of life related to respiratory problems, mood, and fatigue (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

According to our results, the 12-item Turkish BBQ-SSc is a reliable and valid tool to assess dyspnea-related kinesiophobia in SSc patients. Key Points • There are no structured tools available for assessing dyspnea-related kinesiophobia in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc) • The 12-item Turkish Breathlessness Beliefs Questionnaire for SSc (BBQ-SSc) is a reliable and valid tool to assess dyspnea-related kinesiophobia in SSc patients.

Effect of nintedanib in patients with systemic sclerosis-associated interstitial lung disease and risk factors for rapid progression

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the rate of decline in forced vital capacity (FVC), and the effect of nintedanib on the rate of decline in FVC, in subjects with systemic sclerosis-associated interstitial lung disease (SSc-ILD) who had risk factors for rapid decline in FVC.

METHODS

The SENSCIS trial enrolled subjects with SSc and fibrotic ILD of ≥10% extent on high-resolution CT. The rate of decline in FVC over 52 weeks was analysed in all subjects and in those with early SSc (<18 months since first non-Raynaud symptom), elevated inflammatory markers (C reactive protein ≥6 mg/L and/or platelets ≥330×10⁹/L) or significant skin fibrosis (modified Rodnan skin score (mRSS) 15-40 or mRSS ≥18) at baseline.

RESULTS

In the placebo group, the rate of decline in FVC was numerically greater in subjects with <18 months since first non-Raynaud symptom (-167.8 mL/year), elevated inflammatory markers (-100.7 mL/year), mRSS 15-40 (-121.7 mL/year) or mRSS ≥18 (-131.7 mL/year) than in all subjects (-93.3 mL/year). Nintedanib reduced the rate of FVC decline across subgroups, with a numerically greater effect in patients with these risk factors for rapid FVC decline.

CONCLUSION

In the SENSCIS trial, subjects with SSc-ILD who had early SSc, elevated inflammatory markers or extensive skin fibrosis had a more rapid decline in FVC over 52 weeks than the overall trial population. Nintedanib had a numerically greater effect in patients with these risk factors for rapid ILD progression.

Scleromyositis: A distinct novel entity within the systemic sclerosis and autoimmune myositis spectrum. Implications for care and pathogenesis

Systemic sclerosis and autoimmune myositis are both associated with decreased quality of life and increased mortality. Their prognosis and management largely depend on the disease subgroups. Indeed, systemic sclerosis is a heterogeneous disease, the two predominant forms of the disease being limited and diffuse scleroderma. Autoimmune myositis is also a heterogeneous group of myopathies that classically encompass necrotizing myopathy, antisynthetase syndrome, dermatomyositis and inclusion body myositis. Recent data revealed that an additional disease subset, denominated "scleromyositis", should be recognized within both the systemic sclerosis and the autoimmune myositis spectrum. We performed an in-depth review of the literature with the aim of better delineating scleromyositis. Our review highlights that this concept is supported by recent clinical, serological and histopathological findings that have important implications for patient management and understanding of the disease pathophysiology. As compared with other subsets of systemic sclerosis and autoimmune myositis, scleromyositis patients can present with a characteristic pattern of muscle involvement (i.e. distribution of muscle weakness) along with multisystemic involvement, and some of these extra-muscular complications are associated with poor prognosis. Several autoantibodies have been specifically associated with scleromyositis, but they are not currently integrated in diagnostic and classification criteria for systemic sclerosis and autoimmune myositis. Finally, striking vasculopathic lesions at muscle biopsy have been shown to be hallmarks of scleromyositis, providing a strong anatomopathological substratum for the concept of scleromyositis. These findings bring new insights into the pathogenesis of scleromyositis and help to diagnose this condition, in patients with subtle SSc features and/or no autoantibodies (i.e. "seronegative" scleromyositis). No guidelines are available for the management of these patients, but recent data are showing the way towards a new therapeutic approach dedicated to these patients.

Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation for Systemic Sclerosis-A Review

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune, multi-organ, connective tissue disease associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Conventional immunosuppressive therapies demonstrate limited efficacy. Autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HCT) is more efficacious but carries associated risks, including treatment-related mortality. Here, we review HCT as a treatment for SSc, its efficacy and toxicity in comparison to conventional therapies, and the proposed mechanisms of action. Furthermore, we discuss the importance of and recent developments in patient selection. Finally, we highlight the knowledge gaps and future work required to further improve patient outcomes.

Study the Relationship of MDCT Staging in Disease Extent with the Systemic Sclerosis Disease Parameters

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

The highest incidence of death in systemic sclerosis due to pulmonary disease raises the need for early detection and treatment. The study aim is the assessment of interstitial pulmonary disease by Multi Detector High Resolution CT (MDCT) and finds its relationship with the other disease parameters and the Pulmonary Function tests (PFT).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A prospective cross-sectional study was performed in Assiut University Hospitals from May 2018 to January 2020 and included 62 consecutive SSc female patients. Demographic, clinical, Laboratory, PFT and MDCT assessment were conducted for all participants.

RESULTS

The coarseness of fibrosis was 8.32 (range 0.0-17), the average proportion of ground-glass opacification was 28.3% (range, 0.0%-75%). Honey-comb pattern was seen in (52.5%). Mean Extent of disease was 46.25±3.7 (range 5-81). Restrictive deficit found in 42 patients. Significant relation was found between the extent of disease and the percentage predicted FVC (r=0.373, p 0.018) and FEV1/FVC (r=0.593, p 0.000) and coarseness of fibrosis and proportion of ground glass opacification correlated inversely with VC (r=-0.385, p=0.014, r=-0.376, p=0.017 respectively), Rayanud's phenomena, modified Rodnan Skin Score and Medsger's general are positively correlated with MDCT disease extent.

CONCLUSION

Scoring of systemic sclerosis (SSc) related interstitial lung disease (SSc-ILD) could be applicable as one of the important tools for disease assessment.

Sexual Dimorphism in Interstitial Lung Disease

Interstitial lung diseases (ILD) are a group of heterogeneous progressive pulmonary disorders, characterised by tissue remodelling and/or fibrotic scarring of the lung parenchyma. ILD patients experience lung function decline with progressive symptoms, poor response to treatment, reduced quality of life and high mortality. ILD can be idiopathic or associated with systemic or connective tissue diseases (CTD) but idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is the most common form. While IPF has a male predominance, women are affected more greatly by CTD and therefore associated ILDs. The mechanisms behind biological sex differences in these progressive lung diseases remain unclear. However, differences in environmental exposures, variable expression of X-chromosome related inflammatory genes and sex hormones play a role. Here, we will outline sex-related differences in the incidence, progression and mechanisms of action of these diseases and discuss existing and novel cellular and pre-clinical studies. Furthermore, we will highlight how sex-differences are not adequately considered in pre-clinical disease models, how gender bias exists in clinical diagnosis and how women are underrepresented in clinical trials. Future action on these observations will hopefully shed light on the role of biological sex in disease development, identify potential targets for intervention and increase female participant numbers in clinical trials.

Pulmonary Manifestations in Rheumatological Diseases

Pulmonary involvement complicates the various aspects of care in patients suffering from autoimmune disorders. The epidemiological data generated over the last 10 to 15 years have improved the overall understanding of the risk factors and pathophysiological mechanisms involved in pulmonary involvement in rheumatological conditions. Recent advances in genetics have provided superior insight into the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases and the underlying pulmonary involvement. This review article provides a concise overview of the four most common rheumatological conditions associated with pulmonary involvement: systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), dermatomyositis/polymyositis, rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and systemic sclerosis (SSc). The clinical, epidemiological, and genetic aspects of these diseases are summarized in this article with particular emphasis on the characteristic patterns of pulmonary involvement in radiological imaging and various treatment options for each of these autoimmune diseases and their lung manifestations.

Treatment approach to connective tissue disease-associated interstitial lung disease

Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is a common manifestation in connective tissue diseases (CTD), such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA), systemic sclerosis (SSc), and inflammatory myositis (IM). ILD is associated with significant morbidity and mortality in nearly all CTD highlighting the critical need for effective treatment strategies in this patient population. In this review, we will summarize the approach to treatment when there is concern for CTD-ILD and highlight recent advancements in therapeutics within various forms of CTD-ILD.

Impact of lung function and baseline clinical characteristics on patient-reported outcome measures in systemic sclerosis-associated interstitial lung disease

OBJECTIVE

The SENSCIS® trial demonstrated a significant reduction of lung function decline in patients with SSc-associated interstitial lung disease (SSc-ILD) treated with nintedanib, but no significant effect on health-related quality of life (HRQoL). To assess whether SSc/SSc-ILD severity and large changes in lung function correlate with HRQoL, a post-hoc analysis of SENSCIS®, aggregating treatment arms, was undertaken.

METHODS

Patient-reported outcome (PRO) measures [St. George's Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ), Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy (FACIT)-Dyspnoea, and HAQ-Disability Index (HAQ-DI), incorporating the Scleroderma HAQ visual analogue scale (SHAQ VAS)] at baseline and week 52 were assessed for associations to SSc-ILD severity.

RESULTS

At baseline and at week 52, forced vital capacity (FVC) <70% predicted was associated with worse PRO measure scores compared with FVC ≥70% predicted [week 52: SGRQ 45.1 vs 34.0 (P < 0.0001); FACIT-Dyspnoea 48.9 vs 44.5 (P < 0.0001); HAQ-DI 0.7 vs 0.6 (P < 0.0228); SHAQ VAS breathing problems 3.6 vs 2.6 (P < 0.0001)]. Patients with diffuse cutaneous SSc and other characteristics associated with SSc-ILD severity had worse PRO measure scores. Patients requiring oxygen or with >30% fibrosis on high-resolution computed tomography at baseline demonstrated worse PRO measure scores at week 52. After 1 year, patients with a major (>10%) improvement/worsening in FVC demonstrated corresponding improvement/worsening in SGRQ and other PRO measures, significant for the SGRQ symptom domain (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Severe SSc-ILD and major deteriorations in lung function have important impacts on HRQoL. Treatments that slow lung function decline and prevent severe SSc-ILD are important to preserve HRQoL.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

clinicaltrials.gov, www.clinicaltrials.gov, NCT02597933.

Current advances in the treatment of systemic sclerosis

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare, systemic autoimmune disease of unknown etiology. Among the systemic rheumatic diseases, SSc carries the highest mortality, in part due to the historical lack of disease modifying therapies. Recently, landmark randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have been conducted that have illustrated the heterogeneous nature of SSc and furthered our understanding of the key inflammatory and fibrotic pathways involved in SSc pathogenesis. Although SSc affects various organ systems, RCTs have focused on investigating treatments for diffuse cutaneous sclerosis (dcSSc) and interstitial lung disease (ILD). While recent RCTs for dcSSc have failed to demonstrate a treatment benefit, the outcomes of two RCTs led to the approval of two novel therapies for SSc-ILD: nintedanib and tocilizumab. This review summarizes the salient outcome data from recent SSc trials within a practical clinical framework and points out gaps in knowledge that may help inform the design of future SSc studies.

Clinical characteristics associated with small airways disease in systemic sclerosis

Objective:

Pulmonary manifestations of systemic sclerosis are a major cause of morbidity and mortality. Small airways disease can cause dyspnea and pulmonary function test abnormalities. We aimed to determine the prevalence of small airways disease and describe the characteristics associated with small airways disease in a cohort of systemic sclerosis patients.

Methods:

We performed a retrospective cohort study of adults with systemic sclerosis who met American College of Rheumatology/European League Against Rheumatism 2013 classification criteria and were evaluated at our institution between November 2000 and November 2015. Patients with prior lung transplantation were excluded. Small airways disease was defined as the presence of one or more of the following: airway-centered fibrosis on surgical lung biopsy, forced expiratory volume at 25–75% ⩽ 50% on pulmonary function tests, and/or high-resolution computed tomography scan of the chest with bronchiolitis, mosaic attenuation, or air trapping on expiratory views. The primary outcome was small airways disease diagnosis. We performed multivariable logistic regression to determine the association of clinical variables with small airways disease.

Results:

One-hundred thirty-six systemic sclerosis patients were included; 55 (40%) had small airways disease. Compared to those without small airways disease, a significantly greater proportion of those with small airways disease had interstitial lung disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, pulmonary hypertension, and gastroesophageal reflux disease. On multivariable analysis, pulmonary hypertension (odds ratio = 2.91, 95% confidence interval = 1.11–7.65, p-value = 0.03), gastroesophageal reflux disease (odds ratio = 2.70, 95% confidence interval = 1.08–6.79, p-value = 0.034), and anti-topoisomerase I (anti-Scl-70) antibody positivity (odds ratio = 0.42, 95% confidence interval = 0.19–0.93, p-value = 0.033) were associated with diagnosis of small airways disease.

Conclusion:

Small airways disease is prevalent among systemic sclerosis patients; those with pulmonary hypertension or gastroesophageal reflux disease may have a higher risk of small airways disease.

Thoracic Involvement in Systemic Autoimmune Rheumatic Diseases: Pathogenesis and Management

Thoracic involvement is one of the main determinants of morbidity and mortality in patients with autoimmune rheumatic diseases (ARDs), with different prevalence and manifestations according to the underlying disease. Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is the most common pulmonary complication, particularly in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc), idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIMs) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Other thoracic manifestations include pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), mostly in patients with SSc, airway disease, mainly in RA, and pleural involvement, which is common in systemic lupus erythematosus and RA, but rare in other ARDs.In this review, we summarize and critically discuss the current knowledge on thoracic involvement in ARDs, with emphasis on disease pathogenesis and management. Immunosuppression is the mainstay of therapy, particularly for ARDs-ILD, but it should be reserved to patients with clinically significant disease or at risk of progressive disease. Therefore, a thorough, multidisciplinary assessment to determine disease activity and degree of impairment is required to optimize patient management. Nevertheless, the management of thoracic involvement-particularly ILD-is challenging due to the heterogeneity of disease pathogenesis, the variety of patterns of interstitial pneumonia and the paucity of randomized controlled clinical trials of pharmacological intervention. Further studies are needed to better understand the pathogenesis of these conditions, which in turn is instrumental to the development of more efficacious therapies.

Mortality in Systemic Sclerosis-Associated Interstitial Lung Disease in Brazil: A Real-Life, Long-Term Follow-up Observational Study

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to identify risk factors associated with mortality in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc), particularly those with interstitial lung disease (ILD), over a long-term follow-up in a large Brazilian SSc cohort.

METHODS

We conducted a medical records review study of 380 scleroderma patients from 1982 to 2019. Systemic sclerosis ILD was considered in those with evidence of ILD on chest high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT). Causes of death were determined.

RESULTS

Among the 380 SSc patients, SSc-ILD on chest HRCT was observed in 227 patients (59.7%). Seventy-two patients (18.9%) died during a mean follow-up of 7.2 years since the SSc diagnosis; among them, 57 (79.2%) had SSc-ILD, compared with 15 (20.8%) without SSc-ILD (p < 0.001). Of the 72 deaths, 51.4% were considered related to SSc, and ILD was the leading cause of death. The overall survival rates at 5, 10, and 15 years were 87.9%, 81.5%, and 74.9%, respectively. Kaplan-Meier analysis showed a significantly worse prognosis among patients with SSc-ILD than among those without ILD (p < 0.001). Among patients with SSc-ILD, disease duration of less than 4 years (p < 0.001), forced vital capacity <80% at baseline (p = 0.017), and pulmonary systolic arterial pressure ≥40 mm Hg on echocardiography (p < 0.001) were significantly associated with mortality by multivariate analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

In Brazilian SSc patients, the presence of ILD was associated with a worse prognosis. The higher mortality among SSc-ILD patients, especially those with a shorter disease duration and forced vital capacity <80%, highlights the need for early screening and closer monitoring before irreversible lung function deterioration occurs.

Dyspnoea and cough in patients with systemic sclerosis-associated interstitial lung disease in the SENSCIS trial

Objective

The aim of these analyses was to investigate the rate of decline in forced vital capacity (FVC) in patients with SSc-associated interstitial lung disease (SSc-ILD) with and without cough or dyspnoea in the SENSCIS trial.

Methods

Patients in the SENSCIS trial were randomized to receive nintedanib or placebo. Subgroups with and without cough or dyspnoea at baseline were defined by responses to the St George’s Respiratory Questionnaire.

Results

At baseline, 114/575 patients (19.8%) did not have cough and 172/574 patients (30.0%) did not have dyspnoea. In the placebo group, the rate of FVC decline over 52 weeks was similar in patients with and without cough (−95.6 and −83.4 mL/year, respectively) or dyspnoea (−95.8 and −87.7 mL/year, respectively). The effect of nintedanib vs placebo on reducing the rate of FVC decline was numerically more pronounced in patients without than with cough [difference: 74.4 (95% CI −11.1, 159.8) vs 31.5 (−11.1, 74.1)] and without than with dyspnoea [79.8 (9.8, 149.7) vs 25.7 (−19.9, 71.3)], but interaction P-values did not indicate heterogeneity in the treatment effect between these subgroups (P = 0.38 and P = 0.20, respectively).

Conclusion

In the placebo group of the SENSCIS trial, the rate of FVC decline was similar irrespective of the presence of cough or dyspnoea at baseline. The effect of nintedanib on reducing the rate of FVC decline was numerically more pronounced in patients without than with cough or dyspnoea at baseline, but no statistically significant heterogeneity was observed between the subgroups.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, https://clinicaltrials.gov, NCT02597933.

Baseline characteristics of systemic sclerosis patients with restrictive lung disease in a multi-center US-based longitudinal registry

AIM

Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is the leading cause of disease-related death in systemic sclerosis (SSc). Here, we assess baseline characteristics of SSc subjects with and without restrictive lung disease (RLD) in a multi-center, US-based registry.

METHODS

SSc patients within 5 years of disease onset were enrolled in the Collaborative National Quality and Efficacy Registry (CONQUER), a multi-center US-based registry of SSc study participants (age ≥ 18 years) enrolled at 13 expert centers. All subjects met 2013 American College of Rheumatology / European League Against Rheumatism criteria. Subjects with a pulmonary function test (PFT) at baseline before April 1, 2020 were included. High-resolution computed tomography scan of the chest was not available to characterize ILD for all subjects. RLD was defined as forced vital capacity (FVC) <80% or total lung capacity (TLC) <80% predicted.

RESULTS

There were 160 (45%) SSc subjects characterized as having RLD. There was no significant difference in age, gender or disease duration. RLD subjects had a mean disease duration from date of first non-Raynaud's symptom of 2.6 years and a mean FVC% predicted of 67% at baseline. In multivariable analysis, non-White race, higher physician global health assessment and modified Medical Research Council (mMRC) dyspnea scores, were independently associated with RLD. In the subgroup of RLD subjects with ILD, ILD had a negative correlation with RNA polymerase III antibody.

CONCLUSION

CONQUER is the largest, multi-center, prospective cohort of early SSc patients in the US. Non-White race was independently associated with RLD. In addition, 45% of CONQUER subjects already had RLD, highlighting the importance of screening for SSc-ILD at initial diagnosis.

Outcomes in patients with systemic sclerosis undergoing early versus delayed intervention with potential disease-modifying therapies

OBJECTIVE

To examine whether early therapeutic intervention, compared with delayed intervention, is beneficial for patients with early systemic sclerosis (SSc).

METHODS

This is a single-center, retrospective cohort study of SSc patients who received cyclophosphamide, mycophenolate mofetil, methotrexate, or tocilizumab for diffuse cutaneous SSc (dcSSc) or interstitial lung disease (ILD) within 6 years after disease onset. The patients were divided into early and delayed intervention groups based on the disease duration of ≤ 18 and >18 months at treatment introduction, respectively. Clinical worsening was defined as the development of any original or revised ACR Composite Response Index in Systemic Sclerosis (CRISS) step 1 event or progressive fibrosing ILD (PF-ILD).

RESULTS

There was no difference in baseline characteristics between the early (n = 25) and delayed (n = 21) intervention groups except forced vital capacity (FVC), which was better in the early vs delayed intervention groups. The early intervention group less frequently had stable pulmonary function over one year than did the late intervention group (odds ratio 0.087, 95% confidence interval 0.0079-0.51, p = 0.003). The active disease was significantly decreased from 79% to 42% in the early intervention group (p = 0.007), but the change in the delayed intervention group was not statistically significant (68% to 42%, p = 0.11). Cumulative rates free from clinical worsening events defined by revised ACR-CRISS and PF-ILD were significantly higher in the early vs delayed intervention groups (p = 0.03 and 0.003, respectively).

CONCLUSION

A therapeutic "window of opportunity" might exist in SSc patients.

Outcome measurement instrument selection for lung physiology in systemic sclerosis associated interstitial lung disease: A systematic review using the OMERACT filter 2.1 process

OBJECTIVE

The Outcome Measures in Rheumatology (OMERACT) is a research organization focused on improving health care outcomes for patients with autoimmune and musculoskeletal diseases. The Connective Tissue Disease-Interstitial Lung Disease (CTD-ILD) Working Group on Lung Physiology is a group within OMERACT charged with identifying outcome measures that should be implemented in studies of patients with CTD-ILD. The OMERACT Filter 2.1 is an evidence-based algorithm used to identify outcome measures that are truthful, feasible, and able to discriminate between groups of interest. Our objective was to summate evidence (published literature, key opinion leader input, patient perspectives) that would influence the CTD-ILD Working Group's vote to accept or reject the use of two measures of lung physiology, the forced vital capacity (FVC) and the diffusion capacity of carbon monoxide (DLco) for use in randomized controlled trials (RTCs) and longitudinal observational studies (LOSs) involving patients with systemic sclerosis associated ILD (SSc-ILD).

METHODS

Patient Research Partners (those afflicted with SSc-ILD) and the CTD-ILD Working Group on Lung Physiology were polled to assess their opinion on the FVC and DLco in terms of feasibility; the CTD-ILD Working Group was also queried on these instruments' face and content validity. We then conducted a systematic literature review to identify articles in the SSc-ILD population that assessed the following measurement properties of FVC and DLco: (1) construct validity, (2) test-retest reliability, (3) longitudinal construct validity, (4) clinical trial discrimination/sensitivity to detect change in clinical trials, and (5) thresholds of meaning. Results were summarized in a Summary of Measurement Properties (SOMP) table for each instrument. OMERACT CTD-ILD Working Group members discussed and voted on the strength of evidence supporting these two instruments and voted to endorse, provisionally endorse, or not endorse either instrument.

RESULTS

Forty Patient Research Partners reported these two measures are feasible (are not an unnecessary burden or represent an infeasible longitudinal assessment of their disease). A majority of the 18 CTD-ILD Working Group members voted that both the FVC and DLco are feasible and have face and content validity. The systematic literature review returned 1,447 non-duplicated articles, of which 177 met eligibility for full text review. Forty-eight studies (13 RCTs, 35 LOSs) were included in the qualitative analysis. The FVC SOMP table revealed high quality, consistent data with evidence of good performance for all five measurement properties, suggesting requisite published evidence to proceed with endorsement. The DLco SOMP table showed a lack of data to support test-retest reliability and inadequate evidence to support clinical trial discrimination. There was unanimous agreement (15 [100%]) among voting CTD-ILD Working Group members to endorse the FVC as an instrument for lung physiology in RCTs and LOSs in SSc-ILD. Based on currently available evidence, DLco did not meet the OMERACT criteria and is not recommended for use in RCTs to represent lung physiology of SSc-ILD. The OMERACT Technical Advisory Group agreed with these decisions.

CONCLUSION

The OMERACT Filter 2.1 was successfully applied to the domain of lung physiology in patients with SSc-ILD. The FVC was endorsed for use in RCTs and LOSs based on the Working Group's vote; DLco was not endorsed.

High-Resolution Computed Tomography: Lights and Shadows in Improving Care for SSc-ILD Patients

The diagnosis and classification of systemic sclerosis-associated interstitial lung disease (SSc-ILD) is essential to improve the prognosis of systemic sclerosis (SSc) patients. The risk-stratification of disease severity and follow-up requires a multidisciplinary approach, integrating high-resolution computed tomography (HRTC) of the lung, pulmonary function tests (PFT), along with clinical and symptomatic evaluations. The use of HRCT in detecting SSc-ILD is not so much based on a definitive validation, but rather reflects the widespread clinician recognition of dissatisfaction with other modalities. However, due to the heterogeneity of SSc-ILD and the potential absence of symptoms in early or mild disease, it is prudent to consider as many parameters as possible in the assessment and monitoring of newly diagnosed patients. An early diagnosis meets the primary goal, i.e., the prevention of disease progression. The current first line treatment regimens are mainly centered on immunosuppressive therapy. This review assesses the role HRCT plays in optimizing care and improving clinical outcomes in SSc-ILD patients.

2020 guide for the diagnosis and treatment of interstitial lung disease associated with connective tissue disease

The prognosis of patients with connective tissue disease (CTD) has improved significantly in recent years, but interstitial lung disease (ILD) associated with connective tissue disease (CTD-ILD) remains a refractory condition, which is a leading cause of mortality. Because it is an important prognostic factor, many observational and interventional studies have been conducted to date. However, CTD is a heterogeneous group of conditions, which makes the clinical course, treatment responses, and prognosis of CTD-ILD extremely diverse. To summarize the current understanding and unsolved questions, the Japanese Respiratory Society and the Japan College of Rheumatology collaborated to publish the world's first guide focusing on CTD-ILD, based on the evidence and expert consensus of pulmonologists and rheumatologists, along with radiologists, pathologists, and dermatologists. The task force members proposed a total of 27 items, including 7 for general topics, 9 for disease-specific topics, 3 for complications, 4 for pharmacologic treatments, and 4 for non-pharmacologic therapies, with teams of 2-4 authors and reviewers for each item to prepare a consensus statement based on a systematic literature review. Subsequently, public opinions were collected from members of both societies, and a critical review was conducted by external reviewers. Finally, the task force finalized the guide upon discussion and consensus generation. This guide is expected to contribute to the standardization of CTD-ILD medical care and is also useful as a tool for promoting future research by clarifying unresolved issues.

[Treatment of lung fibrosis in systemic rheumatic diseases (new treatment)]

An interstitial lung disease represents a relevant organ manifestation in many systemic rheumatic diseases (connective tissue disease-interstitial lung disease, CTD-ILD). In 10% of the cases pulmonary fibrosis even results in an underlying systemic disease. The CTD-ILDs are frequently associated with a poor prognosis. Therefore, it is important to test patients with systemic rheumatic diseases timely and regularly for the presence of an ILD. Treatment decisions should be made together with pneumologists and rheumatologists, particularly with respect to the initiation of a specific treatment. Treatment is based on randomized studies only in a few cases and can mostly be derived from case control studies. For systemic sclerosis-associated ILD (SSc-ILD) antifibrotic treatment with nintedanib has also now been approved in addition to an immunosuppressive treatment. For other CTD-ILDs an antifibrotic treatment should be discussed in an interdisciplinary approach depending on the underlying disease corresponding to a progressively fibrosing ILD.

Efficacy and safety of biological drugs in interstitial lung disease associated with connective tissue diseases

INTRODUCTION

Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is one of the most important manifestations of connective tissue diseases (CTD) due to its association with high morbidity and mortality.

AREAS COVERED

Literature review focused on the evidence on efficacy and safety of biological therapy.

EXPERT OPINION

Rituximab (RTX) is the most studied drug, though tocilizumab (TCZ) has methodologically more robust evidence, whereas abatacept (ABA) has only anecdotal reports. RTX studies suggest a clinically relevant effect on lung function and fibrosis in refractory to conventional treatment patients, with a good safety profile. Its multi-level efficacy in systemic sclerosis and the potentially more favorable response of anti-synthetase syndrome, especially when administered early in acute-onset or exacerbated ILD stand out over current standard of care, pending the availability of randomized controlled clinical trials. The significant and clinically meaningful benefit found in lung function and fibrosis with TCZ in faSScinate and focuSSced trials represents a change with respect to the usual practice, reinforcing the importance of treatment in early subclinical or clinical SSc-ILD patients with risk factors for ILD progression. This evidence has led to the inclusion of both RTX and TCZ in the expert-based therapeutic algorithms or recommendations for CTD-ILD management.

Interstitial lung disease pathology in systemic sclerosis

Interstitial lung disease is a relatively frequent manifestation of systemic sclerosis with approximately one-third of patients developing clinical restrictive lung disease. Fibrotic nonspecific interstitial pneumonia is the most common cause of diffuse parenchymal lung disease in patients with systemic sclerosis-associated interstitial lung disease (SSc-ILD), followed by usual interstitial pneumonia (UIP). Radiographic pleuroparenchymal fibroelastosis-like changes may accompany other forms of interstitial lung disease, most commonly UIP. In an appropriate clinical setting with supportive high-resolution computed tomography findings, lung biopsy is not needed to confirm the presence of interstitial lung disease and surgical lung biopsies are often reserved for atypical presentations. In this review, we discuss the histological findings that define the most common patterns of SSc-ILD and outline other findings sometimes encountered in lung biopsies obtained from systemic sclerosis patients, including pulmonary vascular changes, aspiration, chronic pleuritis, and diffuse alveolar damage.

Tocilizumab Prevents Progression of Early Systemic Sclerosis-Associated Interstitial Lung Disease

OBJECTIVE

Tocilizumab (TCZ) has demonstrated lung function preservation in 2 randomized controlled trials in early systemic sclerosis (SSc). This effect has yet to be characterized in terms of radiographically evident quantitative lung involvement. We undertook this study to assess the impact of TCZ on lung function preservation in a post hoc analysis, stratifying treatment arms according to the degree of lung involvement.

METHODS

The focuSSced trial was a phase III randomized placebo-controlled trial of TCZ in patients with SSc and progressive skin disease. Participants underwent baseline and serial spirometry along with high-resolution chest computed tomography at baseline and at week 48. Quantitative interstitial lung disease (QILD) and fibrosis scores were assessed by computer software. We classified QILD into the following categories of lung involvement: mild (>5-10%), moderate (>10-20%), and severe (>20%).

RESULTS

Of 210 participants recruited for the trial, 136 patients (65%) had ILD. The majority of these patients (77%) had moderate-to-severe involvement (defined as >10% lung involvement). The TCZ arm demonstrated preservation of forced vital capacity percent predicted (FVC%) over 48 weeks (least squares mean change in FVC% = -0.1) compared to placebo (-6.3%). For mild, moderate, and severe QILD, the mean ± SD change in FVC% in the TCZ arm at 48 weeks were -4.1 ± 2.5% (n = 11), 0.7 ± 1.9% (n =19), and 2.1 ± 1.6% (n = 26), respectively, and in the placebo group were -10.0 ± 2.6% (n = 11), -5.7 ± 1.6% (n = 26), and -6.7 ± 2.0% (n = 16), respectively. Similar treatment-related preservation findings were seen independent of fibrosis severity.

CONCLUSION

TCZ in early SSc-associated ILD with progressive skin disease stabilized FVC% over 48 weeks, independent of the extent of radiographically evident QILD.

Study the Relationship of MDCT Staging in Disease Extent with the Systemic Sclerosis Disease Parameters

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

The highest incidence of death in systemic sclerosis due to pulmonary disease raises the need for early detection and treatment. The study aim is the assessment of interstitial pulmonary disease by Multi Detector High Resolution CT (MDCT) and finds its relationship with the other disease parameters and the Pulmonary Function tests (PFT).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A prospective cross-sectional study was performed in Assiut University Hospitals from May 2018 to January 2020 and included 62 consecutive SSc female patients. Demographic, clinical, Laboratory, PFT and MDCT assessment were conducted for all participants.

RESULTS

The coarseness of fibrosis was 8.32 (range 0.0-17), the average proportion of ground-glass opacification was 28.3% (range, 0.0%-75%). Honey-comb pattern was seen in (52.5%). Mean Extent of disease was 46.25±3.7 (range 5-81). Restrictive deficit found in 42 patients. Significant relation was found between the extent of disease and the percentage predicted FVC (r=0.373, p 0.018) and FEV1/FVC (r=0.593, p 0.000) and coarseness of fibrosis and proportion of ground glass opacification correlated inversely with VC (r=-0.385, p=0.014, r=-0.376, p=0.017 respectively), Rayanud's phenomena, modified Rodnan Skin Score and Medsger's general are positively correlated with MDCT disease extent.

CONCLUSION

Scoring of systemic sclerosis (SSc) related interstitial lung disease (SSc-ILD) could be applicable as one of the important tools for disease assessment.

Cytokines Involved in the Pathogenesis of SSc and Problems in the Development of Anti-Cytokine Therapy

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a connective tissue disease of unknown etiology. SSc causes damage to the skin and various organs including the lungs, heart, and digestive tract, but the extent of the damage varies from patient to patient. The pathology of SSc includes ischemia, inflammation, and fibrosis, but the degree of progression varies from case to case. Many cytokines have been reported to be involved in the pathogenesis of SSc: interleukin-6 is associated with inflammation and transforming growth factor-β and interleukin-13 are associated with fibrosis. Therapeutic methods to control these cytokines have been proposed; however, which cytokines have a dominant role in SSc might differ depending on the extent of visceral lesions and the stage of disease progression. Therefore, it is necessary to consider the disease state of the patient to be targeted and the type of evaluation method when an anti-cytokine therapy is conducted. Here, we review the pathology of SSc and potential cytokine targets, especially interleukin-6, as well as the use of anti-cytokine therapy for SSc.

The Relationship between Pulmonary Damage and Peripheral Vascular Manifestations in Systemic Sclerosis Patients

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disease, characterized by the presence of generalized vasculopathy and tissue fibrosis. Collagen vascular disorder in SSc is due to fibroblast and endothelial cell dysfunctions. This leads to collagen overproduction, vascular impairment and immune system abnormalities and, in the last stage, multi-organ damage. Thus, to avoid organ damage, which has a poor prognosis, all patients should be carefully evaluated and followed. This is particularly important in the initial disease phase, so as to facilitate early identification of any organ involvement and to allow for appropriate therapy. Pulmonary disease in SSc mainly involves interstitial lung disease (ILD) and pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). High-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) and pulmonary function tests (PFT) have been proposed to monitor parenchymal damage. Although transthoracic echocardiography is the most commonly used screening tool for PAH in SSc patients, definitive diagnosis necessitates confirmation by right heart catheterization (RHC). Moreover, some studies have demonstrated that nailfold videocapillaroscopy (NVC) provides an accurate evaluation of the microvascular damage in SSc and is able to predict internal organ involvement, such as lung impairment. This review provides an overview of the correlation between lung damage and microvascular involvement in SSc patients.

Natural variability in the disease course of SSc-ILD: implications for treatment

Interstitial lung disease (ILD) affects approximately 50% of patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc) and is the leading cause of death in SSc. Our objective was to gain insight into the progression of SSc-associated ILD (SSc-ILD). Using data from longitudinal clinical trials and observational studies, we assessed definitions and patterns of progression, risk factors for progression, and implications for treatment. SSc-ILD progression was commonly defined as exceeding specific thresholds of lung function worsening and/or increasing radiographic involvement. One definition used in several studies is decline in forced vital capacity (FVC) of ≥10%, or ≥5-10% plus a decline in diffusing capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide ≥15%. Based on these criteria, 20-30% of patients in observational cohorts develop progressive ILD, starting early in the disease course and progressing at a highly variable rate.Risk factors such as age, FVC, extent of fibrosis and presence of anti-topoisomerase I antibodies can help predict progression of SSc-ILD, though composite risk scores may offer greater predictive power. Whilst the variability of the disease course in SSc-ILD makes risk stratification of patients challenging, the decision to initiate, change or stop treatment should be based on a combination of the current disease state and the speed of progression.

Pharmacological Interventions for Pulmonary Involvement in Rheumatic Diseases

Among the diverse forms of lung involvement, interstitial lung disease (ILD) and pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) are two important conditions in patients with rheumatic diseases that are associated with significant morbidity and mortality. The management of ILD and PAH is challenging because the current treatment often provides only limited patient survival benefits. Such challenges derive from their common pathogenic mechanisms, where not only the inflammatory processes of immune cells but also the fibrotic and proliferative processes of nonimmune cells play critical roles in disease progression, making immunosuppressive therapy less effective. Recently, updated treatment strategies adopting targeted agents have been introduced with promising results in clinical trials for ILD ad PAH. This review discusses the epidemiologic features of ILD and PAH among patients with rheumatic diseases (rheumatoid arthritis, myositis, and systemic sclerosis) and the state-of-the-art treatment options, focusing on targeted agents including biologics, antifibrotic agents, and vasodilatory drugs.

68Ga-FAPI-04 PET-CT for molecular assessment of fibroblast activation and risk evaluation in systemic sclerosis-associated interstitial lung disease: a single-centre, pilot study

BACKGROUND

Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is the most common cause of death in systemic sclerosis. To date, the progression of systemic sclerosis-associated ILD is judged by the accrual of lung damage on CT and pulmonary function tests. However, diagnostic tools to assess disease activity are not available. Here, we tested the hypothesis that quantification of fibroblast activation by PET-CT using a 68Ga-labelled selective inhibitor of prolyl endopeptidase FAP (68Ga-FAPI-04) would correlate with ILD activity and disease progression in patients with systemic sclerosis-associated ILD.

METHODS

Between Sept 10, 2018, and April 8, 2020, 21 patients with systemic sclerosis-associated ILD confirmed by high-resolution CT (HRCT) within 12 months of inclusion and with onset of systemic sclerosis-associated ILD within 5 years or signs of progressive ILD and 21 controls without ILD were consecutively enrolled. All participants underwent 68Ga-FAPI-04 PET-CT imaging and standard-of-care procedures, including HRCT and pulmonary function tests at baseline. Patients with systemic sclerosis-associated ILD were followed for 6 months with HRCT and pulmonary function tests. We compared baseline 68Ga-FAPI-04 PET-CT uptake with standard diagnostic tools and predictors of ILD progression. The association of 68Ga-FAPI-04 uptake with changes in forced vital capacity was analysed using mixed-effects models. Follow-up 68Ga-FAPI-04 PET-CT scans were obtained in a subset of patients treated with nintedanib (follow-up between 6-10 months) to assess change over time.

FINDINGS

68Ga-FAPI-04 accumulated in fibrotic areas of the lungs in patients with systemic sclerosis-associated ILD compared with controls, with a median standardised uptake value (SUV) mean over the whole lung of 0·80 (IQR 0·60-2·10) in the systemic sclerosis-ILD group and 0·50 (0·40-0·50) in the control group (p<0·0001) and a mean whole lung maximal SUV of 4·40 (range 3·05-5·20) in the systemic sclerosis-ILD group compared with 0·70 (0·65-0·70) in the control group (p<0·0001). Whole-lung FAPI metabolic active volume (wlFAPI-MAV) and whole-lung total lesion FAPI (wlTL-FAPI) were not measurable in control participants, because no 68Ga-FAPI-04 uptake above background level was observed. In the systemic sclerosis-ILD group the median wlFAPI-MAV was 254·00 cm3 (IQR 163·40-442·30), and the median wlTL-FAPI was 183·60 cm3 (98·04-960·70). 68Ga-FAPI-04 uptake was higher in patients with extensive disease, with previous ILD progression, or high EUSTAR activity scores than in those with with limited disease, previously stable ILD, or low EUSTAR activity scores. Increased 68Ga-FAPI-04 uptake at baseline was associated with progression of ILD independently of extent of involvement on HRCT scan and the forced vital capacity at baseline. In consecutive 68Ga-FAPI-04 PET-CTs, changes in 68Ga-FAPI-04 uptake was concordant with the observed response to the fibroblast-targeting antifibrotic drug nintedanib.

INTERPRETATION

Our study presents the first in-human evidence that fibroblast activation correlates with fibrotic activity and disease progression in the lungs of patients with systemic sclerosis-associated ILD and that 68Ga-FAPI-04 PET-CT might improve risk assessment of systemic sclerosis-associated ILD.

FUNDING

German Research Foundation, Erlangen Anschubs-und Nachwuchsfinanzierung, Interdisziplinäres Zentrum für Klinische Forschung Erlangen, Bundesministerium für Bildung und Forschung, Deutsche Stiftung Systemische Sklerose, Wilhelm-Sander-Foundation, Else-Kröner-Fresenius-Foundation, European Research Council, Ernst-Jung-Foundation, and Clinician Scientist Program Erlangen.

The Treatment of Lung Involvement in Systemic Sclerosis

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) patients are often affected by interstitial lung disease (ILD) and, although there have been recent treatment advances, it remains the leading cause of death among SSc, with a 10-year mortality up to 40%. African Americans and subjects with diffuse cutaneous SSc or anti-topoisomerase 1 antibodies are most commonly affected. Currently, early ILD diagnosis can be made, and it is pivotal to improve the prognosis. The diagnostic mainstay test for SSc-ILD is high-resolution computed tomography for the morphology and pulmonary function tests for the functional aspects. Treatment planning and intensity are guided by the disease severity and risk of progression. Traditionally, therapy has depended on combinations of immunosuppressants, particularly cyclophosphamide and mycophenolate mofetil, which can be supplemented by targeted biological and antifibrotic therapies. Benefits have been observed in trials on hematopoietic autologous stem cell transplantation for patients with progressive SSc, whilst lung transplantation is reserved for refractory SSc-ILD cases. Herein, recent advances in SSc-ILD treatment will be explored.

Progressive interstitial lung disease in patients with systemic sclerosis-associated interstitial lung disease in the EUSTAR database

OBJECTIVES

To identify overall disease course, progression patterns and risk factors predictive for progressive interstitial lung disease (ILD) in patients with systemic sclerosis-associated ILD (SSc-ILD), using data from the European Scleroderma Trials And Research (EUSTAR) database over long-term follow-up.

METHODS

Eligible patients with SSc-ILD were registered in the EUSTAR database and had measurements of forced vital capacity (FVC) at baseline and after 12±3 months. Long-term progressive ILD and progression patterns were assessed in patients with multiple FVC measurements. Potential predictors of ILD progression were analysed using multivariable mixed-effect models.

RESULTS

826 patients with SSc-ILD were included. Over 12±3 months, 219 (27%) showed progressive ILD: either moderate (FVC decline 5% to 10%) or significant (FVC decline >10%). A total of 535 (65%) patients had multiple FVC measurements available over mean 5-year follow-up. In each 12-month period, 23% to 27% of SSc-ILD patients showed progressive ILD, but only a minority of patients showed progression in consecutive periods. Most patients with progressive ILD (58%) had a pattern of slow lung function decline, with more periods of stability/improvement than decline, whereas only 8% showed rapid, continuously declining FVC; 178 (33%) experienced no episode of FVC decline. The strongest predictive factors for FVC decline over 5 years were male sex, higher modified Rodnan skin score and reflux/dysphagia symptoms.

CONCLUSION

SSc-ILD shows a heterogeneous and variable disease course, and thus monitoring all patients closely is important. Novel treatment concepts, with treatment initiation before FVC decline occurs, should aim for prevention of progression to avoid irreversible organ damage.

A 3-Year Observational Study of Patients with Progressive Systemic Sclerosis Treated with an Intensified B Lymphocyte Depletion Protocol: Clinical and Immunological Response

BACKGROUND

B-cells have been suggested to play a role in the pathogenesis of systemic sclerosis (SSc), representing, therefore, a potential therapeutic target.

OBJECTIVES

We aimed at investigating the 36-month outcomes of 20 SSc patients who underwent an intensified B-depletion therapy (IBCDT) scheme, including both Rituximab (RTX) and cyclophosphamide (CYC).

METHODS

Data from 20 severe patients (18 females and 2 males, mean age 66.7 ± 11.0 years) with diffuse SSc (anti-topoisomerase I antibody in 95%) patients with multiorgan involvement including interstitial lung disease (ILD) treated with an IBCDT were prospectively collected. IBCDT comprehended: RTX 375 mg/m2 administered for four weekly doses (on days 1, 8, 15, and 22), followed by two additional doses after 30 and 60 days, in addition to two administrations of 10 mg/kg of intravenous CYC plus three methylprednisolone pulses (15 mg/kg) and subsequently followed by oral prednisone rapidly tapered to low minimum dosage of 5 mg daily. In addition, 10 patients with more severe functional respiratory impairment at baseline were also treated with RTX 500 mg every 4 months during the first year and two times a year during the second and the third year.

RESULTS

After 36 months of follow-up, we recorded significant amelioration in N-terminal-pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) levels (mean 385.4 ± 517 pg/mL at baseline to 279 ± 543 after 36 months). In addition, a significant radiological improvement of ILD in 20% of patients (4/20) and a radiological stabilization with no sign of progression of interstitial involvement in 13/20 (65%) were documented. A total of 3 out of 20 (15%) patients experienced a worsening of the ILD. No patient showed further decrease in functional respiratory parameters, including forced vital capacity, forced expiratory volume in one second, and mean values of diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide Moreover, no patient showed any change in the ejection fraction and pulmonary artery pressure when comparing values at baseline and after 24 and 36 months of observation. No severe infection, renal flare, RTX-related side effects were observed. No patient died.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings support that the IBCDT was well tolerated and might be a promising therapeutic option for the management of SSc, especially in those subjects with multiorgan involvement that includes ILD.

Diagnosis and management of connective tissue disease-associated interstitial lung disease in Australia and New Zealand: A position statement from the Thoracic Society of Australia and New Zealand

Pulmonary complications in CTD are common and can involve the interstitium, airways, pleura and pulmonary vasculature. ILD can occur in all CTD (CTD-ILD), and may vary from limited, non-progressive lung involvement, to fulminant, life-threatening disease. Given the potential for major adverse outcomes in CTD-ILD, accurate diagnosis, assessment and careful consideration of therapeutic intervention are a priority. Limited data are available to guide management decisions in CTD-ILD. Autoimmune-mediated pulmonary inflammation is considered a key pathobiological pathway in these disorders, and immunosuppressive therapy is generally regarded the cornerstone of treatment for severe and/or progressive CTD-ILD. However, the natural history of CTD-ILD in individual patients can be difficult to predict, and deciding who to treat, when and with what agent can be challenging. Establishing realistic therapeutic goals from both the patient and clinician perspective requires considerable expertise. The document aims to provide a framework for clinicians to aid in the assessment and management of ILD in the major CTD. A suggested approach to diagnosis and monitoring of CTD-ILD and, where available, evidence-based, disease-specific approaches to treatment have been provided.

An update on the pharmacotherapeutic options and treatment strategies for systemic sclerosis

INTRODUCTION

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a multi-dimensional connective tissue disease of unknown etiology. Given the immense clinical complexity of SSc, the treatment of this condition is not standardized and considerable heterogeneity exists in SSc management approaches. The purpose of this article is to highlight novel therapeutic strategies and new medications under development for the treatment of systemic sclerosis (SSc).

AREAS COVERED

Herein, the authors focus primarily on recently completed clinical trials and phase 3 and 4 clinical trials of therapeutic agents that show promise in SSc. This review is organized by the clinical complications that occur in SSc, for which novel treatment strategies are under study.

EXPERT OPINION

Combining therapies to address the individual manifestations of SSc is a cornerstone to the comprehensive management of this condition. Therapeutic strategies must take into account the organs involved, the level of disease activity in each area, and the disease stage. Controlling the complex biological network, progressive vasculopathy and fibrosis, as well as manifestations of end-organ dysfunction are all critical considerations when determining the best treatment approach for SSc.