1
|
Elnaquip E, Makki M, Mansour M, Moshrif A. Clinical and ultrasonographic evaluation of efficacy and safety of intralesional injection of autologous platelet-rich plasma in morphea: A comparative case series. JOURNAL OF SCLERODERMA AND RELATED DISORDERS 2024; 9:162-168. [PMID: 38910599 PMCID: PMC11188844 DOI: 10.1177/23971983231222664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/25/2024]
Abstract
Objective To evaluate the efficacy and safety of platelet-rich plasma to restore skin changes in morphea by ultrasound and Localized Scleroderma Cutaneous Assessment Tool. Methods Nine morphea patients (21 lesions) were diagnosed clinically and by histopathology. Intradermal platelet-rich plasma was injected into morphea lesion once weekly for 12 sessions. The disease severity and damage were evaluated at baseline, after the last session (3 months later), and at 6 months follow-up using the LoSCAT and a high-resolution ultrasound. The healthy corresponding side was considered as a control. Results The Localized Scleroderma Cutaneous Assessment Tool score showed a significant improvement starting from 13 ± 7.28 up to 7.33 ± 6.82 after the therapeutic endpoint, reaching to 6.44 ± 7.09 after 6 months of follow-up with p value = 0.008 and 0.014, respectively. There was a significant positive correlation between the duration of the lesion and the improvement assessed by the ultrasound, with p value = 0.01. Regarding adverse effects, all patients reported having pain during platelet-rich plasma injection; transient edema of the face was reported by four patients (45%), and only two patients showed transient erythema. Conclusion Autologous platelet-rich plasma is a safe technique with great aesthetic outcomes for filling up the contour defects and correcting both hyper and hypopigmentation, in addition to softening the indurated lesions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Esraa Elnaquip
- Dermatology, Andrology & STIs Department, Ras Eltin General Hospital, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Mahmoud Makki
- Dermatology, Andrology & STIs Department, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Mofreh Mansour
- Dermatology, Andrology & STIs Department, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Abdelhfeez Moshrif
- Rheumatology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University, Assiut, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Chen X, Zhou L, Xia Y, Wong YN, He Q, Tang P, Zhang S, Liu T, Wang Z, Xu N. Superb microvascular imaging for evaluating the activity of juvenile localised scleroderma: a preliminary study. Eur Radiol 2024:10.1007/s00330-024-10738-z. [PMID: 38652159 DOI: 10.1007/s00330-024-10738-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Revised: 02/25/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate microvascular changes in juvenile localised scleroderma (JLS) lesions using superb microvascular imaging (SMI) and assess SMI's utility in evaluating disease activity. METHODS This prospective study enroled 16 children (7 males) with pathologically diagnosed JLS between January 2021 and June 2023. Lesions were assessed using Localised Scleroderma Cutaneous Assessment Tools, including the localised scleroderma skin activity index (LoSAI) and localised scleroderma skin damage index (LoSDI). Lesions with LoSAI scores > 0 were classified as active. The thickness and blood flow of the lesions and healthy skin layers of the contralateral site were evaluated using ultrasound. SMI was used to detect microvascular blood flow in the lesions and healthy skin, and the vascular index (VI) was calculated. The difference in VI between active lesions and healthy skin was correlated with LoSAI and total scores. RESULTS Of 46 lesions, 23 were active and 23 inactive. The skin thickness of the lesion was 0.094 ± 0.024 cm, and that of the healthy site was 0.108 ± 0.026 cm (p < 0.001). The VI of the active lesions and healthy skin were 7.60 (3.60, 12.80)% and 1.10 (0.50, 2.10)%, respectively (p < 0.001). The VI of the inactive lesions and the healthy skin were 0.85 (0.00, 2.20)% and 1.60 (1.00, 3.10)%, respectively (p = 0.011). VI differences between active lesions and healthy skin positively correlated with the LoSAI clinical score (r = 0.625, p = 0.001) and total score (r = 0.842, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION SMI can quantitatively detect microvascular blood flow changes in JLS skin, indicating lesion activity and severity. CLINICAL RELEVANCE STATEMENT SMI is a convenient, non-invasive, technique for detecting active JLS lesions and can provide valuable information to guide treatment options. KEY POINTS Current grading systems of juvenile localised scleroderma rely on subjective clinical information. Superb Microvascular Imaging identified that vascular indexes between active lesions and healthy skin positively correlated with clinical scores. Superb Microvascular Imaging effectively assesses microvascular blood flow, aiding juvenile localised scleroderma lesion activity evaluation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyi Chen
- Department of Ultrasound, Shenzhen Children's Hospital of China Medical University, Shenzhen, 518000, China
| | - Luyao Zhou
- Department of Ultrasound, Shenzhen Pediatrics Institute of Shantou University Medical College, Shenzhen, 518000, China
| | - Yu Xia
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Shenzhen Pediatrics Institute of Shantou University Medical College, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yik Ning Wong
- Canon Medical Systems (China) Co. Ltd., Beijing, China
| | - Qiancheng He
- Department of Ultrasound, Shenzhen Children's Hospital of China Medical University, Shenzhen, 518000, China
| | - Pengyue Tang
- Department of Dermatology, Shenzhen Pediatrics Institute of Shantou University Medical College, Shenzhen, China
| | - Shuangshuang Zhang
- Department of Ultrasound, Shenzhen Children's Hospital of China Medical University, Shenzhen, 518000, China
| | - Tingting Liu
- Department of Ultrasound, Shenzhen Pediatrics Institute of Shantou University Medical College, Shenzhen, 518000, China
| | - Ziyi Wang
- Department of Ultrasound, Shenzhen Pediatrics Institute of Shantou University Medical College, Shenzhen, 518000, China
| | - Na Xu
- Department of Ultrasound, Shenzhen Children's Hospital of China Medical University, Shenzhen, 518000, China.
- Department of Ultrasound, Shenzhen Pediatrics Institute of Shantou University Medical College, Shenzhen, 518000, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Sanchez-Espino LF, Luca N, Pope E, Laxer RM, Knight AM, Sibbald C. Systematic Review of Health-Related Quality of Life Impact in Juvenile Localized Scleroderma. Arthritis Care Res (Hoboken) 2024; 76:340-349. [PMID: 37750181 DOI: 10.1002/acr.25243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The prevalence and types of psychosocial complications of juvenile localized scleroderma (JLS), also known as morphea, an inflammatory and sclerosing disease involving the skin, fascia, muscle, and bone, are poorly understood. METHODS We performed a systematic review of literature published between 2000 and 2020 in PubMed, EMBASE, the Cochrane Skin Group Specialized Register, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature using the search terms "scleroderma, localized," "Morphea," "anxiety," "depression," "resilience," "social stigma," "quality of life," "mood," or "stress" and limited the search to pediatric patients and English language. Patient demographics, characteristics of JLS, and comorbidities were extracted. The outcomes included measures of health-related quality of life (HRQoL), psychosocial functioning, evaluation of self-perception, and the treatment burden of the study population. The protocol was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42021257124). Thematic synthesis generated descriptive analysis. RESULTS Thirteen studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria: three retrospective cohort studies, two prospective cohort studies, and eight cross-sectional studies. A total of 690 pediatric patients with JLS were included (n = 484 with linear scleroderma). Six studies used the Children's Dermatology Life Quality Index, reporting little to no effect on HRQoL. One study used the Health-Related Quality of Life in Children and Adolescents Questionnaire and did not find differences between children with JLS or atopic dermatitis and healthy controls. One study used a self-perception questionnaire that showed normal self-worth of patients with JLS. Two studies used focus groups, both reporting elevated levels of stress, decreased self-worth, "feeling different," and bullying/teasing in patients with JLS. These emotions were associated with skin symptoms (pain, itch, and tightness), physical limitations, and treatment burden. CONCLUSION Overall, quantitative studies did not report a statistically significant impairment in HRQoL in JLS. However, qualitative studies (focus groups) reported significant psychosocial impacts related to JLS. There is a need to develop a JLS-specific tool for the HRQoL evaluation of this population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Nadia Luca
- Alberta Children's Hospital and University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Elena Pope
- The Hospital for Sick Children and University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ronald M Laxer
- The Hospital for Sick Children and University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andrea M Knight
- The Hospital for Sick Children and University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Cathryn Sibbald
- The Hospital for Sick Children and University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Akbaş A, Kılınç F, Hayran Y. A Comparison of Clinical, Demographic and Treatment Characteristics of Pediatric-Onset and Adult-Onset Patients Diagnosed With Localized Scleroderma. Dermatol Pract Concept 2024; 14:dpc.1401a23. [PMID: 38364378 PMCID: PMC10868915 DOI: 10.5826/dpc.1401a23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/15/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Morphea localized scleroderma (LS) is a rare skin disease with unknown pathogenesis, which causes sclerosis of the dermis and subcutaneous tissue. OBJECTIVES It was aimed to compare the characteristics of patients with pediatric and adult-onset morphea. METHODS A retrospective analysis was performed on the records of 183 adult morphea patients. The demographics, clinical and laboratory characteristics, and treatment options of the patients were recorded. Adult patients with morphea over the age of 18 were divided into two groups according to the age of onset and compared. RESULTS Twenty-two percent (N = 41) of the patients had pediatric-onset morphea (POLS) and 77.6% (n=142) had adult-onset morphea (AOLS). While POLS had a higher head-neck involvement, AOLS had a higher breast involvement (P < 0.001 and P = 0.043). Patients with linear morphea were younger, and more frequently had at least one laboratory anomaly (P = 0.016 versus 0.024). Anti-dsDNA positivity and low hemoglobin (Hb) were observed more frequently in patients with breast involvement. Patients with inguinal involvement, on the other hand, had lower Hb and a higher rate of diabetes, and those patients were older (P = 0.042, 0.040, and 0.012, respectively). CONCLUSIONS Clinical characteristics and accompanying laboratory anomalies of the patients with morphea depend on the age of onset, involvement areas and the types of morphea, having such data readily available should guide the holistic approach for, and the monitoring process of, the disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ayşe Akbaş
- Ankara City Hospital, Dermatology, Ankara, Turkey
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
5
|
Bağlan E, Kızıldağ Z, Çağlayan Ş, Çakmak F, Yener GO, Özdel S, Öztürk K, Makay B, Çakan M, Ayaz NA, Sözeri B, Ünsal ŞE, Bülbül M. Remission rates and risk factors for relapse in pediatric morphea: a multicenter retrospective study of Pediatric Rheumatology Academy (PeRA)-Research Group (RG). Clin Rheumatol 2023; 42:2855-2860. [PMID: 37378874 DOI: 10.1007/s10067-023-06677-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Revised: 05/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
AIM Morphea, also known as localized scleroderma, is an immune-mediated disease and the most common form of scleroderma in children. It is a localized sclerosing disease of the skin, but can also involve such adjacent tissues as the fascia, muscle, bone, and underlying tissues. This multicenter study aimed to evaluate Turkish pediatric morphea patients, regarding demographics, treatments, and response to treatment. MATERIALS AND METHODS The study was performed by the Pediatric Rheumatology Academy and included pediatric morphea patients from 6 Turkish pediatric rheumatology centers who were followed up for ≥6 months. Demographic, clinical, and laboratory findings and treatment modalities were analyzed. The patients were divided into 3 groups according to treatment response, as follows: group 1: topical treatment response, group 2: methotrexate response, and group 3: methotrexate resistance. Clinical findings were compared between the 3 groups. RESULTS The study included 76 patients, of which 53 (69.7%) were female. Mean age at diagnosis of morphea was 9.7 ± 4.3 years and mean duration of follow-up was 3.2 ± 2.9 years. Linear morphea was the most common form, accounting for 43.4% (n = 33) of the patients. Extracutaneous features were noted in 17 patients (22.4%) and anti-nuclear antibody positivity was noted in 32 (42.1%). In all, 14.4% of the patients received topical treatment only, whereas 86.6% received both topical and systemic treatment. The methotrexate response rate was 76.9% in the patients that received systemic immunosuppressive therapy. The overall relapse rate while under treatment was 19.7%. CONCLUSION In this study, most of the pediatric morphea patients responded well to methotrexate. Bilateral lesions were more common in the methotrexate-resistant group. Multiple involvement, and bilateral lesions, were more common in relapsed patients than in non-relapsed patients. Key points • Most of the pediatric morphea patients respond well to MTX. • Multiple involvement, and bilateral involvement, were more common in relapsed patients than in non-relapsed patients. • Presence of extracutaneous findings in patients increased relapse rate 5.7 times.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Esra Bağlan
- Department of Pediatric Rheumatology, Dr. Sami Ulus Gynecology Obstetrics and Child Health and Diseases Training and Research Hospital, 06080, Ankara, Turkey.
| | - Zehra Kızıldağ
- Department of Pediatric Rheumatology, Dokuz Eylül University Medical School, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Şengül Çağlayan
- Department of Pediatric Rheumatology, Umraniye Research and Training Hospital, University of Health Science, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Figen Çakmak
- Department of Pediatric Rheumatology, Istanbul University Medical School, Istanbul, Turkey
| | | | - Semanur Özdel
- Department of Pediatric Rheumatology, Dr. Sami Ulus Gynecology Obstetrics and Child Health and Diseases Training and Research Hospital, 06080, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Kübra Öztürk
- Department of Pediatric Rheumatology, Göztepe Research and Training Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Balahan Makay
- Department of Pediatric Rheumatology, Dokuz Eylül University Medical School, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Mustafa Çakan
- Department of Pediatric Rheumatology, Umraniye Research and Training Hospital, University of Health Science, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Nuray Aktay Ayaz
- Department of Pediatric Rheumatology, Istanbul University Medical School, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Betül Sözeri
- Department of Pediatric Rheumatology, Umraniye Research and Training Hospital, University of Health Science, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Şevket Erbil Ünsal
- Department of Pediatric Rheumatology, Dokuz Eylül University Medical School, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Bülbül
- Department of Pediatric Rheumatology, Dr. Sami Ulus Gynecology Obstetrics and Child Health and Diseases Training and Research Hospital, 06080, Ankara, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Petty AJ, Emge DA, Blanchard SK, Selim MA, Scoggins K, Liu B, Green CL, Cardones AR. Pilot, open-label, single-arm clinical trial evaluating the efficacy of topical crisaborole for steroid refractory morphea. J Am Acad Dermatol 2023; 89:390-392. [PMID: 37054813 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaad.2023.03.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2021] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/25/2023] [Indexed: 04/15/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Amy J Petty
- Department of Dermatology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Drew A Emge
- Department of Dermatology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | | | - Maria Angelica Selim
- Division of Dermatopathology, Department of Pathology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Kim Scoggins
- Department of Dermatology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Beiyu Liu
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Cynthia L Green
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Adela R Cardones
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Kansas, Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Fan W, Obiakor B, Jacobson R, Haemel A, Gandelman J. Clinical and therapeutic course in head variants of linear morphea in adults: a retrospective review. Arch Dermatol Res 2022; 315:1161-1170. [DOI: 10.1007/s00403-022-02478-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
AbstractParry Romberg Syndrome (PRS) and en coup de sabre (ECDS) are head variants of linear morphea with functional and structural implications. This study describes the clinical course, autoimmune co-morbidities, complications, and treatment of adults with PRS/ECDS at a tertiary referral center. We retrospectively reviewed the records of all 34 adult patients with PRS/ECDS identified through billing code search and seen by dermatologists at our institution between 2015 and 2021. Eight patients (23.5%) had ECDS, 8 (23.5%) had PRS, and 18 (52.9%) had overlap. Twenty-six patients (76.5%) reported ocular, oral, and/or neurologic symptoms, and 8 (23.5%) had concomitant autoimmune/inflammatory conditions. Sixteen patients (47.1%) had a skin biopsy, and 25 (73.5%) had imaging. Forty-six MRIs were obtained, of which 6 (13.0%) reported intracranial findings and 25 (54.3%) reported disease-related connective tissue damage. Twenty-four patients (70.6%) underwent systemic treatment during their disease course per available clinical records. Seventeen patients (70.8%) had improved or stable disease upon treatment completion, with an average duration of 22.2 months. Ten patients (41.7%) reported recurrence of disease following the treatment course. To address changes to facial contour, 6 patients (17.6%) opted for procedural treatments. One patient (16.7%) experienced morphea reactivation following a filler injection performed off-immunosuppression. Compared to findings in children, our study suggests adults with PRS/ECDS are more likely to have oral and ocular complications but experience less severe neurologic symptoms. While systemic treatments appear beneficial in most adult patients with PRS/ECDS, disease may recur following discontinuation.
Collapse
|
8
|
Tognetti L, Marrocco C, Carraro A, Guerrini G, Mariotti GI, Cinotti E, Rubegni P. Clinical and laboratory characterization of patients with localized scleroderma and response to UVA-1 phototherapy: In vivo and in vitro skin models. PHOTODERMATOLOGY, PHOTOIMMUNOLOGY & PHOTOMEDICINE 2022; 38:531-540. [PMID: 35324032 PMCID: PMC9790552 DOI: 10.1111/phpp.12786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Revised: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE Localized scleroderma (LS) is a rare disease leading to progressive hardening and induration of the skin and subcutaneous tissues. LS is responsive to UVA-1 phototherapy, though its exact mechanism of action dermal fibrosis is yet to be fully elucidated. We aimed to investigate the molecular changes induced by UVA-1 rays in human primary fibroblasts cultures. METHODS A total of 16 LS patients were treated with medium-dose UVA-1 phototherapy. At baseline, during and after therapy, Localized Scleroderma Assessment Tool, Dermatology Life Quality Index and lesions' staging and mapping were performed along with high-frequency ultrasound (HFUS) examination for dermal thickness assessment. Gene expression analysis for 23 mRNA transcripts, in vitro UVA-1 irradiation and viability tests were realized on lesional fibroblasts' primary cultures, before and 3 months after therapy. RESULTS The dermal thickness, the LoSCAT and the DLQI progressively decreased starting from the last phototherapy session up to the 6 and 9 month follow-ups (-57% and -60%, respectively). Molecular gene analysis (rt-PCR) revealed that UVA-1 phototherapy exerts multiple effects: the activation of specific anti-fibrotic pathways (e.g., overexpression of CTHRC1 and metalloproteases 1, 2, 7, 8, 9, 12, suppression of TIMP-1), the downregulation of peculiar pro-fibrotic pathways (e.g., downregulation of TGF-ß, TGF-ßrII, Grb2, SMAD 2/3, TNRSF12A, CTGF) through a significant overexpression of IL-1ß; the stabilization of collagen synthesis acting on genes COL1A1, COL3A1, COL8A1, COL10A1, COL12A1. CONCLUSION UVA-1 phototherapy adds significant benefits in local tissue remodeling, rebalancing the alteration between pro-fibrotic and anti-fibrotic pathways; these changes can be well monitored by HFUS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Linda Tognetti
- Dermatology Unit and Skin Bank Unit, Department of Clinical Surgical and Neuro‐sciencesUniversity of SienaSienaItaly
| | - Camilla Marrocco
- Dermatology Unit and Skin Bank Unit, Department of Clinical Surgical and Neuro‐sciencesUniversity of SienaSienaItaly
| | - Andrea Carraro
- Dermatology Unit and Skin Bank Unit, Department of Clinical Surgical and Neuro‐sciencesUniversity of SienaSienaItaly
| | - Giuditta Guerrini
- Laboratory of Molecular Microbiology and Biotechnology, Department of Medical BiotechnologiesUniversity of SienaSienaItaly
| | - GIancarlo Mariotti
- Dermatology Unit and Skin Bank Unit, Department of Clinical Surgical and Neuro‐sciencesUniversity of SienaSienaItaly
| | - Elisa Cinotti
- Dermatology Unit and Skin Bank Unit, Department of Clinical Surgical and Neuro‐sciencesUniversity of SienaSienaItaly
| | - Pietro Rubegni
- Dermatology Unit and Skin Bank Unit, Department of Clinical Surgical and Neuro‐sciencesUniversity of SienaSienaItaly
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Zhu JL, Paniagua RT, Chen HW, Florez-Pollack S, Kunzler E, Teske N, Rainwater YB, Li QZ, Hosler GA, Li W, Ramirez DMO, Monson NL, Jacobe HT. Autoantigen microarrays reveal myelin basic protein autoantibodies in morphea. J Transl Med 2022; 20:41. [PMID: 35073943 PMCID: PMC8785566 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-022-03246-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Morphea is an autoimmune, sclerosing skin disorder. Despite the recent emphasis on immune dysregulation in morphea, the role of autoantibodies in morphea pathogenesis or utility as biomarkers are poorly defined. METHODS Autoantigen microarray was used to profile autoantibodies from the serum of participants from the Morphea in Adults and Children (MAC) cohort. Clinical and demographic features of morphea patients with myelin basic protein (MBP) autoantibodies were compared to those without. MBP immunohistochemistry staining was subsequently performed in morphea skin to assess for perineural inflammation in areas of staining. Immunofluorescence staining on mouse brain tissue was also performed using patient sera and mouse anti-myelin basic protein antibody to confirm the presence of MBP antibodies in patient sera. RESULTS Myelin basic protein autoantibodies were found in greater frequency in morphea (n = 50, 71.4%) compared to systemic sclerosis (n = 2, 6.7%) and healthy controls (n = 7, 20%). Patients with MBP antibodies reported pain at higher frequencies. Morphea skin biopsies, highlighted by immunohistochemistry, demonstrated increased perineural inflammation in areas of MBP expression. Immunofluorescence staining revealed an increased fluorescence signal in myelinated areas of mouse brain tissue (i.e. axons) when incubated with sera from MBP antibody-positive morphea patients compared to sera from MBP antibody-negative morphea patients. Epitope mapping revealed target epitopes for MBP autoantibodies in morphea are distinct from those reported in MS, and included fragments 11-30, 41-60, 51-70, and 91-110. CONCLUSIONS A molecular classification of morphea based on distinct autoantibody biosignatures may be used to differentially classify morphea. We have identified anti-MBP as a potential antibody associated with morphea due to its increased expression in morphea compared to healthy controls and systemic sclerosis patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jane L Zhu
- Department of Dermatology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd., Dallas, TX, 75390-9069, USA
| | - Ricardo T Paniagua
- Department of Dermatology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd., Dallas, TX, 75390-9069, USA
| | - Henry W Chen
- Department of Dermatology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd., Dallas, TX, 75390-9069, USA
| | - Stephanie Florez-Pollack
- Department of Dermatology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd., Dallas, TX, 75390-9069, USA
| | - Elaine Kunzler
- Department of Dermatology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd., Dallas, TX, 75390-9069, USA
| | - Noelle Teske
- Department of Dermatology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd., Dallas, TX, 75390-9069, USA
| | - Yevgeniya Byekova Rainwater
- Department of Dermatology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd., Dallas, TX, 75390-9069, USA
- ProPath, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Quan-Zhen Li
- Department of Immunology and Microarray Core Facility, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Gregory A Hosler
- Department of Dermatology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd., Dallas, TX, 75390-9069, USA
- ProPath, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Wenhao Li
- Department of Neurology and Neurotherapeutics, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Denise M O Ramirez
- Department of Neurology and Neurotherapeutics, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Nancy L Monson
- Department of Neurology and Neurotherapeutics, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Heidi T Jacobe
- Department of Dermatology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd., Dallas, TX, 75390-9069, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Li SC, Higgins GC, Chen M, Torok KS, Rabinovich CE, Stewart K, Laxer RM, Pope E, Haines KA, Punaro M, O'Neil KM. Extracutaneous involvement is common and associated with prolonged disease activity and greater impact in juvenile localized scleroderma. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2021; 60:5724-5733. [PMID: 33711155 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keab238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2020] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to evaluate factors associated with extracutaneous involvement (ECI) in juvenile localized scleroderma (jLS). METHODS A prospective, multicentre, 6-month observational study was performed. The data collected included disease features, global assessments, and subject symptoms. Bivariate and linear multilevel regression analyses were performed. RESULTS A total of 86 jLS subjects (80% female, 80% Caucasian), median age of disease onset 7.7 years, were evaluated. Most had linear scleroderma or mixed morphea. Of the 86 subjects, 49 (57%) had 125 extracutaneous problems {median 2 [interquartile range (IQR) 1, 3] per subject} from nine organ systems. Most of these subjects had multiple musculoskeletal problems. ECI was associated with more extensive cutaneous involvement, higher number of symptoms, family history of autoimmunity, and ANA and RF positivity. Subjects with ECI had higher scores for physician global assessment of damage (PGA-D), and parental global assessment of disease impact, but not baseline physician global assessment of disease activity (PGA-A). Although subjects with ECI received more MTX and glucocorticoid treatment, they had a slower reduction in PGA-A scores and symptoms over time, suggesting a poorer response to treatment. In logistic regression modelling, female sex had the largest effect on parental impact scores. CONCLUSION ECI occurred in the majority of subjects with jLS, and was associated with more medication use, longer treatment duration, higher PGA-D scores, and higher parental assessment of disease impact. Our findings suggest that jLS subjects with ECI have greater overall disease burden, both cutaneous and extracutaneous, and poorer response to treatment. More study of the treatment needs of this population is warranted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Suzanne C Li
- Department of Pediatrics, Joseph M. Sanzari Children's Hospital, Hackensack University Medical Center, Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, Hackensack, NJ
| | - Gloria C Higgins
- Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University and Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH
| | - Mallory Chen
- Department of Psychology, Williams College, Williamstown, MA
| | - Kathryn S Torok
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Pittsburgh Clinical and Translational Science Institute, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
| | | | - Katie Stewart
- Department of Pediatrics, Texas Scottish Rite Hospital, Dallas, TX, USA
| | | | - Elena Pope
- Department of Pediatrics, The University of Toronto, The Hospital for Sick Kids, Toronto, Canada
| | - Kathleen A Haines
- Department of Pediatrics, Joseph M. Sanzari Children's Hospital, Hackensack University Medical Center, Hackensack, NJ, USA
| | - Marilynn Punaro
- Department of Pediatrics, Texas Scottish Rite Hospital, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Kathleen M O'Neil
- Department of Pediatrics, University School of Medicine, Riley Hospital for Children at Indiana University Health, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
11
|
Desai Y, Jaki T, Beresford MW, Burnett T, Eleftheriou D, Jacobe H, Leone V, Li S, Mozgunov P, Ramanan AV, Torok KS, Anderson ME, Anton J, Avcin T, Felton J, Foeldvari I, Laguda B, McErlane F, Shaw L, Zulian F, Pain CE. Prior elicitation of the efficacy and tolerability of Methotrexate and Mycophenolate Mofetil in Juvenile Localised Scleroderma. AMRC OPEN RESEARCH 2021; 3:20. [PMID: 38708070 PMCID: PMC11064983 DOI: 10.12688/amrcopenres.13008.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
Background Evidence is lacking for safe and effective treatments for juvenile localised scleroderma (JLS). Methotrexate (MTX) is commonly used first line and mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) second line, despite a limited evidence base. A head to head trial of these two medications would provide data on relative efficacy and tolerability. However, a frequentist approach is difficult to deliver in JLS, because of the numbers needed to sufficiently power a trial. A Bayesian approach could be considered. Methods An international consensus meeting was convened including an elicitation exercise where opinion was sought on the relative efficacy and tolerability of MTX compared to MMF to produce prior distributions for a future Bayesian trial. Secondary aims were to achieve consensus agreement on critical aspects of a future trial. Results An international group of 12 clinical experts participated. Opinion suggested superior efficacy and tolerability of MMF compared to MTX; where most likely value of efficacy of MMF was 0.70 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.34-0.90) and of MTX was 0.68 (95% CI 0.41-0.8). The most likely value of tolerability of MMF was 0.77 (95% CI 0.3-0.94) and of MTX was 0.62 (95% CI 0.32-0.84). The wider CI for MMF highlights that experts were less sure about relative efficacy and tolerability of MMF compared to MTX. Despite using a Bayesian approach, power calculations still produced a total sample size of 240 participants, reflecting the uncertainty amongst experts about the performance of MMF. Conclusions Key factors have been defined regarding the design of a future Bayesian approach clinical trial including elicitation of prior opinion of the efficacy and tolerability of MTX and MMF in JLS. Combining further efficacy data on MTX and MMF with prior opinion could potentially reduce the pre-trial uncertainty so that, when combined with smaller trial sample sizes a compelling evidence base is available.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yasin Desai
- MPS Research Unit, Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Lancaster University, Lancaster, LA1 4YF, UK
| | - Thomas Jaki
- MPS Research Unit, Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Lancaster University, Lancaster, LA1 4YF, UK
- MRC Biostatistics Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 0SR, UK
| | - Michael W Beresford
- Department of Paediatric Rheumatology, Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, L12 2AP, UK
- Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, L69 3BX, UK
| | - Thomas Burnett
- MPS Research Unit, Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Lancaster University, Lancaster, LA1 4YF, UK
| | - Despina Eleftheriou
- University College London Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, WC1N 1EH, UK
- Department of Paediatric Rheumatology, Great Ormond St Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, WC1N 3JH, UK
| | - Heidi Jacobe
- UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Valentina Leone
- Paediatric Rheumatology Department, Leeds Children Hospital (Leeds Teaching Hospitals) and University of Leeds, Leeds, LS1 3EX, UK
| | - Suzanne Li
- Department of Pediatrics, Joseph M. Sanzari Children’s Hospital, Hackensack University Medical Center & Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, Hackensack, New Jersey, NJ 07601, USA
| | - Pavel Mozgunov
- MPS Research Unit, Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Lancaster University, Lancaster, LA1 4YF, UK
| | - Athimalaipet V Ramanan
- University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust & Translational Health Sciences, Bristol, BS1 3NU, UK
| | - Kathryn S Torok
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
| | - Marina E Anderson
- Department of Rheumatology, Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, L9 7AL, UK
- Lancaster Medical School, Lancaster University, Lancaster, LA1 4YF, UK
| | - Jordi Anton
- Pediatric Rheumatology, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Barcelona, 08007, UK
| | - Tadej Avcin
- Department of Allergology, Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Children's Hospital, University Medical Centre, Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Jessie Felton
- Department of Dermatology, Brighton and Sussex University Hospitals & Royal Alexandra Children’s Hospital, Brighton, BN2 1DH, UK
| | - Ivan Foeldvari
- Hamburg Centre for Pediatric and Adolescence Rheumatology, Hamburg, 22081 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Bisola Laguda
- Department of Paediatric Dermatology, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London, SW10 9NH, UK
| | - Flora McErlane
- Department of Paediatric Rheumatology, Great North Children's Hospital, Newcastle, NE1 4LP, UK
| | - Lindsay Shaw
- Department of Paediatric Rheumatology, Great Ormond St Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, WC1N 3JH, UK
- University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust & Translational Health Sciences, Bristol, BS1 3NU, UK
| | - Francesco Zulian
- Department of Woman's and Child's Health, University of Padova, Padua, 35122 Padua, Italy
| | - Clare E Pain
- Department of Paediatric Rheumatology, Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, L12 2AP, UK
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Sink JR, Chiu YE. Pediatric morphea state-of-the-art literature review: Reframing morphea as a systemic disease. Pediatr Dermatol 2021; 38:1020-1031. [PMID: 34272748 DOI: 10.1111/pde.14688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Pediatric morphea is an inflammatory, fibrosing dermatologic disorder. Although morphea may be localized to the skin and subcutaneous tissues, differentiating it from systemic sclerosis, there is increasing evidence that morphea is a manifestation of a systemic inflammatory process, with the potential to involve many organ systems. Given the potential risk for irreversible sequelae, pediatric morphea should be treated early and aggressively. Long-term disease monitoring is essential.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jacquelyn R Sink
- Department of Dermatology, Northwestern Medicine Regional Medical Group, Winfield, IL, USA
| | - Yvonne E Chiu
- Departments of Dermatology (Section of Pediatric Dermatology) and Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Li SC, O'Neil KM, Higgins GC. Morbidity and Disability in Juvenile Localized Scleroderma: The Case for Early Recognition and Systemic Immunosuppressive Treatment. J Pediatr 2021; 234:245-256.e2. [PMID: 33548257 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2021.01.068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2020] [Revised: 12/29/2020] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Suzanne C Li
- Joseph M. Sanzari Children's Hospital, Hackensack University Medical Center, Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, Hackensack, NJ.
| | - Kathleen M O'Neil
- Indiana University School of Medicine, Riley Hospital for Children at Indiana University Health, Indianapolis, IN
| | - Gloria C Higgins
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Rheumatology, The Ohio State University and Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Schutt C, Mirizio E, Salgado C, Reyes-Mugica M, Wang X, Chen W, Grunwaldt L, Schollaert KL, Torok KS. Transcriptomic Evaluation of Juvenile Localized Scleroderma Skin With Histologic and Clinical Correlation. Arthritis Rheumatol 2021; 73:1921-1930. [PMID: 33844442 DOI: 10.1002/art.41758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2020] [Accepted: 04/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Juvenile localized scleroderma (LS) is an autoimmune disease of the skin whose pathogenesis is not well understood due to the rarity of the disease. This study was undertaken to determine the skin transcriptome in skin biopsy tissue from children with juvenile LS compared to pediatric healthy controls, with identification of significant molecular targets using RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq). In this study, differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were assessed for correlations with histopathologic and clinical features in children with juvenile LS, and were used to group the children into distinct genetic clusters based on immunophenotype. METHODS RNA-Seq was performed on sections of paraffin-embedded skin tissue obtained from 28 children with juvenile LS and 10 pediatric healthy controls. RNA-Seq was carried out using an Illumina HTS TruSeq RNA Access library prep kit, with data aligned using STAR and data analysis using a DESeq2 platform. A standardized histologic scoring system was used to score skin sections for the severity of inflammation and levels of collagen deposition. Histologic scoring was completed by 2 pathologists who were blinded with regard to the status of each sample. Spearman's rank correlation coefficients were used to assess significant correlations between DEG expression profiles and skin histologic findings in patients with juvenile LS. RESULTS We identified 589 significant DEGs in children with juvenile LS as compared to healthy controls. Hierarchical clustering was used to demonstrate 3 distinct juvenile LS immunophenotype clusters. The histologic scores of skin inflammation (based on numbers and categories of inflammatory cell infiltrates) were significantly correlated with the expression levels of HLA-DPB1, HLA-DQA2, HLA-DRA, and STAT1 genes (rs > 0.5, P < 0.01). Collagen thickness correlated with the expression levels of collagen organization genes as well as with genes found to be correlated with the severity of inflammation, including genes for major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I, MHC class II, and interferon-γ signaling. CONCLUSION Among children with juvenile LS, 3 distinct genetic signatures, or clusters, were identified. In one cluster, inflammation-related pathways were up-regulated, corresponding to the histologic skin inflammation score. In the second cluster, fibrosis-related pathways were up-regulated. In the third cluster, gene expression in the skin corresponded to the patterns seen in healthy controls. Up-regulation of HLA class II genes was observed within the first cluster (characterized by predominant inflammation), a feature that has also been observed in the peripheral blood of patients with morphea and in the skin of patients with systemic sclerosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christina Schutt
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and University of Rochester MedicalCenter and Golisano Children's Hospital, Rochester, New York
| | | | - Claudia Salgado
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Miguel Reyes-Mugica
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Xinjun Wang
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Wei Chen
- University of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Lorelei Grunwaldt
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | | | - Kathryn S Torok
- University of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Familial localized scleroderma with paediatric onset: a review. Postepy Dermatol Alergol 2021; 38:193-197. [PMID: 36751536 PMCID: PMC9880783 DOI: 10.5114/ada.2021.106195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2020] [Accepted: 04/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Localized scleroderma is an inflammatory disease causing sclerosis of the skin. The aetiology and pathogenesis of localized scleroderma remain unclear. Localized scleroderma is considered a genetically driven disease. It is not well understood if genetic factors or environmental exposure individually can cause its development or if their interaction is needed to trigger the disease. Some authors postulate that familial clustering is evidence of a hereditary disease. Familial localized scleroderma has been rarely reported and is a case worth studying. We present the review of literature on this subject with 3 additional cases of familial localized scleroderma with paediatric onset.
Collapse
|
16
|
Biologic disease modifying antirheumatic drugs and Janus kinase inhibitors in paediatric rheumatology - what we know and what we do not know from randomized controlled trials. Pediatr Rheumatol Online J 2021; 19:46. [PMID: 33766063 PMCID: PMC7995584 DOI: 10.1186/s12969-021-00514-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2020] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Biologic disease modifying antirheumatic drugs (bDMARDs) and Janus Kinase (JAK) inhibitors are prescribed in adult and paediatric rheumatology. Due to age-dependent changes, disease course, and pharmacokinetic processes paediatric patients with inflammatory rheumatic diseases (PiRD) differ from adult rheumatology patients. METHODS A systematic literature search for randomized clinical trials (RCTs) in PiRD treated with bDMARDs/JAK inhibitors was conducted on Medline, clinicaltrials.gov , clinicaltrialsregister.eu and conference abstracts as of July 2020. RCTs were included if (i) patients were aged ≤20 years, (ii) patients had a predefined rheumatic diagnosis and (iii) RCT reported predefined outcomes. Selected studies were excluded in case of (i) observational or single arm study or (ii) sample size ≤5 patients. Study characteristics were extracted. RESULTS Out of 608 screened references, 65 references were selected, reporting 35 unique RCTs. All 35 RCTs reported efficacy while 34/3 provided safety outcomes and 16/35 provided pharmacokinetic data. The most common investigated treatments were TNF inhibitors (60%), IL-1 inhibitors (17%) and IL-6 inhibitors (9%). No RCTs with published results were identified for baricitinib, brodalumab, certolizumab pegol, guselkumab, risankizumab, rituximab, sarilumab, secukinumab, tildrakizumab, or upadacitinib. In patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) 25/35 RCTs were conducted. The remaining 10 RCTs were performed in non-JIA patients including plaque psoriasis, Kawasaki Disease, systemic lupus erythematosus and non-infectious uveitis. In JIA-RCTs, the control arm was mainly placebo and the concomitant treatments were either methotrexate, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) or corticosteroids. Non-JIA patients mostly received NSAID. There are ongoing trials investigating abatacept, adalimumab, baricitinib, brodalumab, certolizumab pegol, etanercept, guselkumab, infliximab, risankizumab, secukinumab, tofacitinib and tildrakizumab. CONCLUSION Despite the FDA Modernization Act and support of major paediatric rheumatology networks, such as the Pediatric Rheumatology Collaborative Study Group (PRCSG) and the Paediatric Rheumatology International Trials Organization (PRINTO), which resulted in drug approval for PiRD indications, there are limited RCTs in PiRD patients. As therapy response is influenced by age-dependent changes, pharmacokinetic processes and disease course it is important to consider developmental changes in bDMARDs/JAK inhibitor use in PiRD patients. As such it is critical to collaborate and conduct international RCTs to appropriately investigate and characterize efficacy, safety and pharmacokinetics of bDMARDs/JAK inhibitors in paediatric rheumatology.
Collapse
|
17
|
Abbas L, Joseph A, Kunzler E, Jacobe HT. Morphea: progress to date and the road ahead. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2021; 9:437. [PMID: 33842658 PMCID: PMC8033330 DOI: 10.21037/atm-20-6222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Morphea is a rare autoimmune condition causing inflammation and sclerosis of the skin and underlying soft tissue. It is characterized by periods of activity (inflammation admixed with fibrosis), ultimately resulting in permanent damage (pigment change and tissue loss). Damage resulting from unchecked activity can lead to devastating, permanent cosmetic and functional sequelae including hair loss; cutaneous, soft tissue and bony atrophy; joint contractures; and growth restriction of the affected body site in children. This makes the early identification of activity and initiation of appropriate treatment crucial to limiting damage in morphea. To this end, recent investigative work has focused on validation of clinical, biomarker, imaging, and histologic outcomes aimed at accurately quantifying activity and damage. Despite promising results, further work is needed to better validate these measures before they can be used in the clinic and research settings. Although there has been recent approval of less toxic, targeted therapies for many inflammatory skin conditions, none have been systematically investigated in morphea. The mainstays of treatment for active morphea are corticosteroids and methotrexate. These are often limited by substantial toxicity. The paucity of new treatments for morphea is the result of a lack of studies examining its pathogenesis, with many reviews extrapolating from research in systemic sclerosis. Recent studies have demonstrated the role of dysregulated immune and fibrotic pathways in the pathogenesis of morphea, particularly interferon (IFN) gamma related pathways. Active morphea lesions have been found to display an inflammatory morphea signature with CXCR3 receptor ligands, as well as a distinct fibrotic signature reflecting fibroblast activation and collagen production. CXCL9 and 10 have been associated with increased measures of disease activity. While immune dysfunction is thought to play the primary role in morphea pathogenesis, there are other factors that may also contribute, including genetic predisposition, environmental factors, and vascular dysregulation. There remains an essential need for further research to elucidate the pathogenesis of morphea and the mode of action of dysregulated upstream and downstream immune and fibrotic pathways. These studies will allow for the discovery of novel biomarkers and targets for therapeutic development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laila Abbas
- Department of Dermatology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Adrienne Joseph
- Department of Dermatology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Elaine Kunzler
- Department of Dermatology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Heidi T Jacobe
- Department of Dermatology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Glaser D, Torok KS. Evaluation and Treatment of Pediatric Localized Scleroderma: Pearls and Updates. CURRENT TREATMENT OPTIONS IN RHEUMATOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s40674-021-00170-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
|
19
|
Saracino AM, George C, Nihtyanova SI, Denton CP. Comparing paediatric- and adult-onset linear morphoea in a large tertiary-referral scleroderma centre. JOURNAL OF SCLERODERMA AND RELATED DISORDERS 2021; 6:102-108. [DOI: 10.1177/2397198320925684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2019] [Accepted: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background: Linear morphoea is a severe morphoea subtype associated with extracutaneous manifestations, potentially permanent disfigurement and functional impairment. Linear morphoea is more prevalent in paediatric patients, and knowledge of disease in adults is limited. The objective of this study was to compare paediatric- and adult-onset linear morphoea, in an exclusively adult population. Methodology: This was a retrospective cohort study of adult patients with linear morphoea seen over a 3-year period at a single-site adult tertiary-referral Connective Tissue Disease centre. Clinical markers of disease severity and course, including anatomical distribution, extracutaneous manifestations, cutaneous symptoms, associated autoimmunity, inflammatory blood parameters, Dermatology Life Quality Index scores, treatment requirements and modified Localised Scleroderma Activity Tool were assessed and compared in paediatric- and adult-onset linear morphoea. Results: Of 298 patients with morphoea seen during the study period, 135 had linear morphoea and 133 were included in the study. Most were female (78.9%), the mean age was 36.5 years and almost half (43.6%) had adult-onset disease. Disease was similarly severe between groups with regard to anatomical distribution, cutaneous symptoms (n = 89, 66.9%), extracutaneous manifestations (n = 76, 57.1%), antinuclear antibody–positivity (n = 40, 40.4%), raised erythrocyte sedimentation rate (n = 27, 25.0%) and associated autoimmune diagnoses (n = 15, 11.3%). Prescribed treatments were similar between groups; 73.7% receiving methotrexate and almost one-third (32.3%) requiring more than one steroid-sparing agent. Those with paediatric-onset had more disease-related damage, with a mean modified Localised Scleroderma Skin Damage Index score of 19.5 (95% confidence interval: 17.0–22.0) versus 8.1 (95% confidence interval: 4.4–11.8; p < 0.001). Significantly more patients with adult-onset linear morphoea had quiescent disease (p = 0.0332), and even after correcting for disease duration, paediatric-onset patients still had 2.6 times greater odds of active disease (odds ratio = 2.59, 95% confidence interval: 0.9–7.6; p = 0.083). Conclusion: Linear morphoea in adults can be a severe disease with extracutaneous, autoimmune and systemic features. Adults with paediatric-onset disease appear to have more severe cumulative damage, greater functional impairment and ongoing disease activity. This patient subgroup may require particularly close monitoring and more aggressive therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amanda M Saracino
- Centre for Rheumatology and Connective Tissue Diseases, Division of Medicine, University College London, London, UK
| | - Christina George
- Department of Dermatology, Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Svetlana I Nihtyanova
- Centre for Rheumatology and Connective Tissue Diseases, Division of Medicine, University College London, London, UK
| | - Christopher P Denton
- Centre for Rheumatology and Connective Tissue Diseases, Division of Medicine, University College London, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Mirizio E, Liu C, Yan Q, Waltermire J, Mandel R, Schollaert KL, Konnikova L, Wang X, Chen W, Torok KS. Genetic Signatures From RNA Sequencing of Pediatric Localized Scleroderma Skin. Front Pediatr 2021; 9:669116. [PMID: 34164359 PMCID: PMC8215272 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2021.669116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to explore the skin transcriptional profile in pediatric localized scleroderma (LS) to provide a better understanding of the altered immune and fibrotic pathways promoting disease. LS is a progressive disease of the skin and underlying tissue that causes significant functional disability and disfigurement, especially in developing children. RNA sequencing (RNAseq) technology allows for improved understanding of relevant cellular expression through transcriptome analysis of phases during LS disease progression (more active/inflammatory vs. inactive/fibrotic) and also permits the use of RNA extracted from existing paraffin-embedded skin tissue, which is important in pediatrics. A strong correlation was observed between the comparison of genes expressed between fresh (RNAlater) and paraffinized skin in healthy and LS subjects, supporting the use of paraffinized tissue. LS gene signatures compared to healthy controls showed a distinct expression of an inflammatory response gene signature (IRGS) composed of IFNγ-, IFNα-, and TNFα-associated genes. GSEA© enrichment analysis showed that the IRGS, including interferon-inducible chemokines such as CXCL9, CXCL10, CXCL11, and IFNγ itself, was more highly expressed in LS patients with more inflammatory lesions. The use of paraffinized skin for sequencing was proven to be an effective substitute for fresh skin by comparing gene expression profiles. The prevalence of the IFNγ signature in the lesion biopsies of active LS patients indicates that these genes reflect clinical activity parameters and may be the promoters of early, inflammatory disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emily Mirizio
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Christopher Liu
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Qi Yan
- Division of Pediatric Pulmonary Medicine, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Julia Waltermire
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Roosha Mandel
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Kaila L Schollaert
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Liza Konnikova
- Division of Neonatal Medicine, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Xinjun Wang
- Division of Pediatric Pulmonary Medicine, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Wei Chen
- Division of Pediatric Pulmonary Medicine, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Kathryn S Torok
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States.,Clinical and Translational Science Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
O'Brien JC, Nymeyer H, Green A, Jacobe HT. Changes in Disease Activity and Damage Over Time in Patients With Morphea. JAMA Dermatol 2020; 156:513-520. [PMID: 32236501 PMCID: PMC7113826 DOI: 10.1001/jamadermatol.2020.0034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Importance Prospective studies of the disease course in patients with morphea are lacking, particularly those comparing adults and children. Objective To investigate the disease course in patients with morphea treated with standard-of-care therapy using validated clinical outcome measures. Design, Setting, and Participants Prospective cohort study of 130 adults and children from the Morphea in Adults and Children cohort with at least 2 years of clinical follow-up and Localized Scleroderma Cutaneous Assessment Tool scores recorded at each study visit. Study patients were seen at a tertiary referral center (UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas) from November 1, 2008, through April 1, 2016. The dates of analysis were May 2016 through July 2019. Exposures All patients received standard-of-care therapy. Main Outcomes and Measures Patterns in disease activity and recurrence were examined. The time to recurrence of morphea disease activity from the first visit with inactive disease was assessed using survival analysis with the log-rank test to compare differences between morphea subtypes. Results In total, 130 adults and children (663 study visits) were included in this study. The mean (SD) age of patients was 34.4 (23.8) years, and 101 of 130 (78%) were female. The mean (SD) follow-up was 4.3 (1.7) years. Fifty patients had at least 5 years of follow-up. Most patients were white individuals (96 of 130 [74%]) and had linear subtype (72 of 130 [55%]) or generalized subtype (40 of 130 [31%]). Overall, 13 of 30 (43%) with generalized subtype had recurrence of disease activity compared with 14 of 66 (21%) with linear subtype (hazard ratio, 3.28; 95% CI, 1.38-7.79). The median (interquartile range) time to first recurrence of disease activity after initial resolution of disease activity was 1.1 (0.8-1.9) years for generalized subtype and 2.3 (1.0-3.3) years for linear subtype. Of the 50 patients followed up for at least 5 years, 18 (36%) had recurrence of disease activity. Conclusions and Relevance Disease activity appeared to improve in most patients with morphea over 6 to 12 months using previously published treatment plans, underscoring their effectiveness. Sclerosis improved more slowly (over 2-5 years), often after discontinuation of treatment, but atrophy increased slightly as sclerosis subsided. Standard-of-care therapy appears to improve disease activity, which allows sclerosis to improve, and provides relative stability of other features of disease damage. A substantial number of patients, particularly those with generalized subtype, have a relapsing-remitting course over many years. Patients with morphea should be monitored for recurrent disease activity over extended periods.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jack C O'Brien
- Department of Dermatology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Hugh Nymeyer
- Department of Dermatology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Allison Green
- Department of Dermatology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Heidi T Jacobe
- Department of Dermatology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Pérez M, Zuccaro J, Mohanta A, Tijerin M, Laxer R, Pope E, Doria AS. Feasibility of Using Elastography Ultrasound in Pediatric Localized Scleroderma (Morphea). ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE & BIOLOGY 2020; 46:3218-3227. [PMID: 32951932 DOI: 10.1016/j.ultrasmedbio.2020.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2019] [Revised: 08/04/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Assessment and monitoring of inflammation and tissue damage is crucial in localized scleroderma (LS), but validated diagnostic tools are lacking. We aimed to determine the feasibility of using acoustic radiation force imaging ultrasound elastography in the assessment of pediatric-onset LS lesions. Conventional ultrasound and shear-wave elastography (SWE) imaging were used to characterize changes in pre-assigned LS lesions in 13 prospectively recruited participants. Contralateral sites were used as controls. Mean SWE values were compared. LS lesions were significantly stiffer than control sites in the dermis and the hypodermis using both parametric and non-parametric tests, before and after skin-thickness normalization. We show that SWE imaging is a feasible way to discriminate between normal skin and LS lesions in the pediatric population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Pérez
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Medical Imaging, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Jennifer Zuccaro
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Institute of Medical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Arun Mohanta
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Marta Tijerin
- Radiology Department, Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias, Oviedo, Spain
| | - Ronald Laxer
- Division of Rheumatology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Section of Dermatology, Division of Pediatric Medicine, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Research Institute, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Elena Pope
- Section of Dermatology, Division of Pediatric Medicine, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Research Institute, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Pediatrics, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andrea S Doria
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Medical Imaging, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Research Institute, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Clinical characteristics and histopathologic changes of morphea: A single-center, retrospective study of 137 patients. J Am Acad Dermatol 2020; 85:105-113. [PMID: 33188871 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaad.2020.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2020] [Revised: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The clinicopathologic correlations and prognostic risk factors for refractory disease in morphea (localized scleroderma) are poorly described. OBJECTIVE To investigate the association between clinical characteristics and histopathologic features of morphea and identify risk factors for refractory disease. METHODS We retrospectively reviewed the clinical and histopathologic features, treatment regimens, and clinical responses for 137 patients with biopsy-proven morphea from January 2008 to May 2019. Multivariate analysis was conducted to identify factors associated with poor treatment response. RESULTS We detected associations between the pattern and degree of sclerosis and the anatomic site of the lesion, as well as between severe inflammation and concomitant autoimmune disease. Additionally, both bottom-heavy sclerosis and increased inflammation were associated with functional limitations/clinical symptoms. Based on our multivariate analysis, we found that increased risk of poor treatment response was correlated with tissue eosinophils and basal pigmentation. LIMITATIONS This was a single-center retrospective study. CONCLUSION Skin biopsy samples could show specific features of morphea, including eosinophil infiltration and basal pigmentation, which may indicate the need for aggressive treatment and frequent monitoring.
Collapse
|
24
|
Mirizio E, Tabib T, Wang X, Chen W, Liu C, Lafyatis R, Jacobe H, Torok KS. Single-cell transcriptome conservation in a comparative analysis of fresh and cryopreserved human skin tissue: pilot in localized scleroderma. Arthritis Res Ther 2020; 22:263. [PMID: 33168063 PMCID: PMC7654179 DOI: 10.1186/s13075-020-02343-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 10/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The purpose of this study was to assess variability in cell composition and cell-specific gene expression in the skin of patients with localized scleroderma (LS) utilizing CryoStor® CS10 in comparison to RPMI to produce adequate preservation of tissue samples and cell types of interest for use in large-scale multi-institutional collaborations studying localized scleroderma and other skin disorders. Methods We performed single-cell RNA sequencing on paired skin biopsy specimens from 3 patients with LS. Each patient with one sample cryopreserved in CryoStor® CS10 and one fresh in RPMI media using 10× Genomics sequencing. Results Levels of cell viability and yield were comparable between CryoStor® CS10 (frozen) and RPMI (fresh) preserved cells. Furthermore, gene expression between preservation methods was collectively significantly correlated and conserved across all 18 identified cell cluster populations. Conclusion Comparable cell population and transcript expression yields between CryoStor® CS10 and RPMI preserved cells support the utilization of cryopreserved skin tissue in single-cell analysis. This suggests that employing standardized cryopreservation protocols for the skin tissue will help facilitate multi-site collaborations looking to identify mechanisms of disease in disorders characterized by cutaneous pathology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emily Mirizio
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Tracy Tabib
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Xinjun Wang
- Division of Pediatric Pulmonary Medicine, UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Wei Chen
- Division of Pediatric Pulmonary Medicine, UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Christopher Liu
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Robert Lafyatis
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Heidi Jacobe
- Department of Dermatology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Kathryn S Torok
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA. .,Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA. .,University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh Faculty Pavilion, 3rd floor, Office 3117 4401 Penn Avenue, PA, 15237, Pittsburgh, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Virdi A, Patrizi A, Cambiaghi S, Diociaiuti A, El Hachem M, Schena D, Bassi A, Bonamonte D, Brazzelli V, Belloni Fortina A, Pepe P, DI Lernia V, Neri I. A retrospective study on clinical subtypes and management of morphea in 10 Italian Dermatological Units. Ital J Dermatol Venerol 2020; 156:446-454. [PMID: 33070566 DOI: 10.23736/s2784-8671.20.06632-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are still few dermatological studies on morphea. We evaluated the epidemiological and clinical features and management of pediatric morphea, reporting dermatologists experience. METHODS A multicenter retrospective observational study was carried out on the epidemiological and clinical features and management of the disease between 01/01/2009 and 01/10/2014 in 10 Italian Dermatological Units. RESULTS We collected the data of 69 children affected by: circumscribed morphea (39.1%); linear morphea of trunk and limbs (14.5%); en coupe de sabre morphea (ECDS) (14.5%); progressive facial hemiatrophy (8.7%); generalized form (18.8%); mixed morphea (4.4%). The mean age at onset was 6.86±3.21 years, mainly between 2 and 8 years, but is statistically significantly lower for ECDS (4.5±3.03). Localizations were: head/neck (30.4%), limbs (26.1%), trunk (14.5%), 2 or more sites (29%), most often the trunk plus limbs. Extracutaneous manifestations were observed in 26.1% patients. 10 patients presented a second autoimmune disorder. Treatments were topical in 26.1% cases and systemic (alone or associated with topical treatments) in 68.1%. CONCLUSIONS There was a lack of uniformity in the management of patients and an increasing awareness of dermatologists on the use of systemic therapies, in particular of methotrexate, which is no longer exclusive to rheumatologists. Methotrexate causes stabilization and improvement of the clinical signs, but topical creams are still considered adjuvant or maintenance therapies during/after the use of systemic drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Annalucia Virdi
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, S. Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy -
| | - Annalisa Patrizi
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, S. Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Stefano Cambiaghi
- Unit of Pediatric Dermatology, Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Maggiore Polyclinic Hospital, IRCCS Ca' Granda Foundation, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Andrea Diociaiuti
- Dermatology Unit, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - May El Hachem
- Dermatology Unit, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Donatella Schena
- Section of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Andrea Bassi
- Unit of Pediatric Dermatology Service, Anna Meyer Pediatric Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Domenico Bonamonte
- Section of Dermatology, Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Valeria Brazzelli
- Department of Clinical-Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Science, Institute of Dermatology, IRCCS San Matteo Polyclinic Foundation, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Anna Belloni Fortina
- Unit of Pediatric Dermatology, Department of Medicine, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Patrizia Pepe
- Unit of Dermatology, Surgical, Medical and Dental Sciences, Department of Morphological Sciences Related to Transplant, Oncology and Regenerative Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Vito DI Lernia
- Unit of Dermatology, Arcispedale S. Maria Nuova IRCCS, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Iria Neri
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, S. Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Morris MS, Matcuk G, DeClerk BK, Arkfeld D, Stevanovic M. Linear Morphea With Inflammatory Myositis. J Hand Surg Am 2020; 45:782.e1-782.e5. [PMID: 31801651 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhsa.2019.10.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2019] [Accepted: 10/07/2019] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Morphea is an autoimmune disorder characterized by sclerosis and inflammation of the skin and soft tissues. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to minimize morbidity such as joint contracture. In this report, we present the case of a 19-year-old man with linear morphea with inflammatory myositis who presented to our clinic 1 year after symptom onset with severe elbow flexion contracture. Through reviewing this rare disorder, it is hoped that early diagnosis will lead to better outcomes in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Daniel Arkfeld
- Department of Rheumatology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA
| | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Quality of Life in Patients with Morphea: A Cross-Sectional Study and a Review of the Current Literature. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 2020:9186274. [PMID: 32258158 PMCID: PMC7094194 DOI: 10.1155/2020/9186274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2019] [Revised: 02/26/2020] [Accepted: 03/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Objective The aim of the study was to evaluate QoL in patients suffering from morphea. Material and Methods. Sixty-five patients with morphea were recruited into this cross-sectional, prospective parallel study. QoL among adult patients was assessed with the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) and Euro-QoL-5D questionnaire; patients aged <17 years used the Children's Dermatology Life Quality Index (CDLQI). The severity of morphea was assessed using the Localized Scleroderma Cutaneous Assessment Tool. The results of QoL and its association with disease severity were compared between patients with various morphea subtypes. Results The mean DLQI scoring was 3.8 ± 4.1 points and the CDLQI was 2.3 ± 3.0. The mean value of Visual Analogue Scale thermometer (EQ VAS) was 66.9 ± 17.5 points. The disease activity of morphea based on mLoSSI correlated significantly with QoL impairment according to the DLQI (R = 0.41, p = 0.001). No significant correlation was observed between morphea-induced damage and QoL (p = 0.99). Conclusions Evaluation of QoL in patients with morphea is still challenging due to lack of good assessment tools dedicated specifically for morphea patients. In general, QoL in morphea patients is significantly correlated with the disease activity, but not with disease-induced skin damage.
Collapse
|
28
|
Associations between Disease Activity/Severity and Damage and Health-Related Quality of Life in Adult Patients with Localized Scleroderma-A Comparison of LoSCAT and Visual Analogue Scales. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9030756. [PMID: 32168819 PMCID: PMC7141310 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9030756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2020] [Revised: 03/07/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Localized scleroderma (LoS) is a chronic fibrosing disorder of the skin and, less commonly, subcutaneous tissues. As the disease causes subjective symptoms, cosmetic defects, and, at times, functional disability, subjects with LoS experience deterioration of their health-related quality of life (HRQoL). The influence of disease activity/severity and damage status on HRQoL measures in patients with LoS is scarcely known. Physician-reported measures (modified LoS skin severity index, LoS skin damage index, physician global assessments of the disease activity/severity and damage) and patient-derived measures (patient global assessments of the disease activity/severity and damage) were obtained in adult LoS patients. Their HRQoL was measured with Skindex-29 and Short Form-36. The patients’ assessments of disease activity/severity and damage in LoS differed from the assessments by the physicians. The patients’ predominant concerns centered on LoS-related damage, whereas the physicians’ concerns focused on features of disease activity. Visual analogue scales bore some relation to the HRQoL, and they seem to be important in a holistic approach to the patient and should not be omitted in LoS evaluation.
Collapse
|
29
|
Zigler C, Ardalan K, Hernandez A, Caliendo A, Magee K, Terry M, Mann C, Torok K. Exploring the impact of paediatric localized scleroderma on health‐related quality of life: focus groups with youth and caregivers. Br J Dermatol 2020; 183:692-701. [DOI: 10.1111/bjd.18879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- C.K. Zigler
- Center for Health Measurement Department of Population Health Sciences Duke University School of Medicine Durham NC USA
| | - K. Ardalan
- Division of Rheumatology Departments of Pediatrics and Medical Social Sciences Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago/Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine Chicago IL USA
| | - A. Hernandez
- Center for Health Measurement Department of Population Health Sciences Duke University School of Medicine Durham NC USA
| | - A.E. Caliendo
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine Chicago IL USA
| | - K.E. Magee
- Department of Psychological Sciences Case Western Reserve University Cleveland OH USA
| | - M.A. Terry
- Behavioral and Community Health Services Public Health University of Pittsburgh Pittsburgh PA USA
| | - C.M. Mann
- Center for Health Measurement Department of Population Health Sciences Duke University School of Medicine Durham NC USA
| | - K.S. Torok
- Division of Rheumatology Department of Pediatrics Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC Pittsburgh PA USA
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Zigler CK, Ardalan K, Lane S, Schollaert KL, Torok KS. A novel patient-reported outcome for paediatric localized scleroderma: a qualitative assessment of content validity. Br J Dermatol 2020; 182:625-635. [PMID: 31498874 PMCID: PMC7050359 DOI: 10.1111/bjd.18512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/31/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND According to current standards, no existing patient-reported outcome (PRO) measures have high-quality validity evidence for use with individuals diagnosed with paediatric localized scleroderma (LS). This severely hinders patient-centred LS-focused research, including much needed clinical trials. OBJECTIVES To develop a valid health-related quality of life measure for individuals with paediatric LS and to qualitatively evaluate its content validity using a patient-centred approach. METHODS Previously collected qualitative data from youth with LS and their caregivers was used to develop items. The resulting item set was administered in a clinical setting to participants aged 8-18 years old. Cognitive interviews were used to evaluate time to survey completion, readability/understanding of the items, appropriateness of the recall period and construct representation. RESULTS Seventeen children and adolescents with LS participated in the study. Interviews supported readability, understanding of the items and appropriateness of the recall period in individuals > 10 years old. Revisions were made to simplify the instructions and to be more inclusive of different subtypes of LS. Three items were added to improve content representation. CONCLUSIONS Content validity was supported by the patient-centred development process of the outcome measure and via direct feedback from individuals with LS and their families. Although an important first step, the resulting PRO, termed the Localized Scleroderma Quality of Life Instrument, should be further evaluated in a larger sample before being implemented. What's already known about this topic? No current health-related quality of life (HRQoL) measures have been created using direct input from children and adolescents with localized scleroderma (LS). When compared with qualitative reports of HRQoL impact in youth with all LS subtypes, no existing patient-reported outcome (PRO) measures have appropriate content validity for individuals with paediatric LS. What does this study add? This study proposes a novel LS-specific PRO and is the first qualitative assessment of content validity for any PRO measure in this population. Results from cognitive interviews with children and adolescents support the content validity of the newly developed item set and its ability to capture HRQoL impact in a clinical context. What are the clinical implications of this work? Incorporating a content-valid PRO of HRQoL impact into clinical practice would allow for the valid, ongoing capture of patient experience in LS. Although content validity is an important and necessary step in the process of evaluating validity, items within this novel measure will undergo additional psychometric evaluation before implementation in research and clinical settings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C K Zigler
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, U.S.A
| | - K Ardalan
- Division of Rheumatology, Departments of Paediatrics and Medical Social Sciences, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, U.S.A
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, U.S.A
| | - S Lane
- School of Education and 5School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, U.S.A
| | | | - K S Torok
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Paediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC, Pittsburgh, PA, U.S.A
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Do N, Ringold S, Sullivan E, Brandling-Bennett H. A retrospective study: Impact of consensus treatment plans on systemic therapy of pediatric morphea. Pediatr Dermatol 2020; 37:278-283. [PMID: 31967352 DOI: 10.1111/pde.14074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Morphea is an inflammatory and fibrosing condition that affects the skin and subcutaneous structures. Morphea is managed by dermatologists, rheumatologists, or both. Prior studies have suggested there is significant variability in approach to treatment. In 2012, the Childhood Arthritis and Rheumatology Research Alliance (CARRA) published consensus treatment plans (CTPs) for pediatric morphea to develop more standardized treatment plans for patients requiring systemic therapy. We aimed to assess whether the publication of CTPs has impacted care of patients with morphea at our institution. METHODS Data were collected via a retrospective review of medical records of 61 pediatric patients diagnosed with morphea at Seattle Children's Hospital (SCH) from January 1, 2005, to December 12,2017. RESULTS Prior to the publication of CTPs, 2 out of 24 patients (8.3%) were treated with a regimen that matched a subsequent CTP. After publication of CTPs, 29 out of 37 patients (78.4%) were treated with a regimen that matched a CTP (P < 0.001). A subanalysis was performed to assess the number of patients who needed second- or third-line therapies. Of those who followed a CTP therapy plan (n = 26), 3 patients (11.5%) needed a second-line therapy compared with 11 patients (44%) in the no-CTP followed group (n = 25), (P = 0.012). CONCLUSIONS The publication of CTPs led to a significant change in treatment approach for patients with morphea requiring systemic therapy at SCH. Patients treated with one of the treatment plans recommended by the CTPs were less likely to need second-line systemic therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ngan Do
- University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington
| | - Sarah Ringold
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Rheumatology, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, Washington
| | - Erin Sullivan
- Children's Core for Biomedical Statistics, Center for Clinical and Translational Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, Washington
| | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Li SC, Torok KS, Rabinovich CE, Dedeoglu F, Becker ML, Ferguson PJ, Hong SD, Ibarra MF, Stewart K, Pope E, Higgins GC, Laxer RM, Mason T, Fuhlbrigge RC, Andrews T. Initial Results from a Pilot Comparative Effectiveness Study of 3 Methotrexate-based Consensus Treatment Plans for Juvenile Localized Scleroderma. J Rheumatol 2019; 47:1242-1252. [DOI: 10.3899/jrheum.190311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Objective.To perform a comparative effectiveness feasibility study in juvenile localized scleroderma (LS), using standardized treatment regimens (consensus treatment plans; CTP).Methods.A prospective, multicenter 1-year pilot observational cohort study was performed by Childhood Arthritis and Rheumatology Research Alliance (CARRA) LS workgroup members. Patients with active, moderate to severe juvenile LS were treated with one of 3 CTP: methotrexate alone, or in combination with intravenous (30 mg/kg/dose for 3 mos) or oral corticosteroids (2 mg/kg/day tapered by 48 weeks).Results.Fifty patients, with demographics typical for juvenile LS, were enrolled, and 44 (88%) completed the study. Most had extracutaneous involvement. Patients improved in all 3 CTP, with > 75% having a major or moderate level of improvement compared to baseline. Damage accrued in some patients. Major deviations from prescribed regimen resulted from medication intolerance (n = 6; 14%) or treatment failure (n = 11; 25%); failures occurred in all 3 CTP. Significant responses to treatment were demonstrated by LS skin scoring measures and overall physician assessments, with differences in response level identified in some patient subsets. Response differences were associated with baseline disease activity level, LS subtype, skin disease extent, and extracutaneous involvement.Conclusion.This study demonstrates the feasibility of conducting juvenile LS comparative effectiveness studies. The CTP were found to be safe, effective, and tolerable. Our assessments performed well. Because damage is common and may progress despite effective control of activity, we recommend initial treatment efficacy be evaluated primarily by activity measures. Potential confounders for response were identified that warrant further study.
Collapse
|
33
|
Teske N, Jacobe H. Using the Localized Scleroderma Cutaneous Assessment Tool (Lo
SCAT
) to classify morphoea by severity and identify clinically significant change. Br J Dermatol 2019; 182:398-404. [PMID: 31049928 DOI: 10.1111/bjd.18097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Validated scoring measures in morphoea can facilitate clinical trials. OBJECTIVES To ascertain the clinical significance of scores on the Localized Scleroderma Cutaneous Assessment Tool (LoSCAT) and identify the change in scores correlated with clinically meaningful change. METHODS A prospective study of 120 participants from the Morphea in Adults and Children (MAC) cohort was undertaken. Physician's subjective assessments of severity and of improvement were completed at each visit. Receiver operating characteristic analysis determined LoSCAT scores corresponding with mild, moderate and severe disease, and absolute and percentage changes in scores corresponding with improved or worsened disease activity or damage. RESULTS Mild, moderate and severe activity corresponded with LoSCAT activity index (LoSAI) scores of 0-4, 5-12 and 13 and over, and with Physician's Global Assessment of activity (PGA-A) scores of 0-10, 11-30 and 31 and over. Mild, moderate and severe damage corresponded with LoSCAT damage index (LoSDI) scores of 0-10, 11-15 and 16 and over, and with PGA of damage (PGA-D) scores of 0-18, 19-30 and 31 and over. Improved activity was best indicated by LoSAI decrease of at least 2 points or 27·5%, or PGA-A decrease of at least 6 points. Improved damage was best indicated by LoSDI score decrease of at least 2 points. Worsening activity was best indicated by LoSAI increase of at least 2 points or 19·5%, or PGA-A increase of at least 4 points. Worsening damage was best indicated by LoSDI increase of at least 25·5%. CONCLUSIONS The LoSCAT can be used to classify patients with morphoea by disease severity, and identify clinically significant improvement in activity. What's already known about this topic? The Localized Scleroderma Cutaneous Assessment Tool (LoSCAT) is a clinical tool that separately quantifies disease activity and damage in morphoea, and prior studies have demonstrated validity and reliability. What does this study add? The LoSCAT can be used to classify patients with morphoea by disease severity into mild, moderate and severe groups, and to identify clinically significant improvement in disease activity in patients with morphoea. The LoSCAT may be limited in its ability to detect clinically significant changes in disease damage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- N.M. Teske
- Department of Dermatology University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center Dallas TX U.S.A
| | - H.T. Jacobe
- Department of Dermatology University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center Dallas TX U.S.A
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Linear scleroderma is the most common subtype of localized scleroderma (LoS) in children. It can be associated with extracutaneous manifestations and long-term sequelae. Thus, appropriate diagnosis and management are key to improve the prognosis. In this review, we summarize the most relevant recent publications for the diagnosis, evaluation of disease activity and adequate management of patients with linear scleroderma. RECENT FINDINGS There are specific clinical features that indicate activity in LoS; dermoscopy and Wood's lamp may be useful. Summarizing, scoring methods seem to provide the most adequate assessment of LoS; but several biomarkers that correlate with activity have been studied: E-selectin and IL-2 receptor, CD34+ dermal dendritic cells and Th/Th1 immunophenotype with decreased T helper (Th2), T regulatory (Tregs), B and natural killer (NK) cells. Recent studies propose hydroxychloroquine monotherapy and tocilizumab as potential therapeutic options. SUMMARY Clinical evaluation, both physical exam and history, is the most important aspect in diagnosing and assessing activity of linear scleroderma. Clinical scoring methods may be most useful for evaluation of activity; eventually, other biomarkers could be relevant in clinical practice. For most patients with linear scleroderma, the first choice of treatment is methotrexate, but physical therapy, plastic surgery and/or orthopedic management are key to improve residual limitations and quality of life. VIDEO ABSTRACT: http://links.lww.com/MOP/A35.
Collapse
|
35
|
Khatri S, Torok KS, Mirizio E, Liu C, Astakhova K. Autoantibodies in Morphea: An Update. Front Immunol 2019; 10:1487. [PMID: 31354701 PMCID: PMC6634257 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.01487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2019] [Accepted: 06/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Skin autoimmune conditions belong to a larger group of connective tissue diseases and primarily affect the skin, but might also involve underlying tissues, such as fat tissue, muscle, and bone. Autoimmune antibodies (autoantibodies) play a role in autoimmune skin diseases, such as localized scleroderma also termed morphea, and systemic scleroderma, also called systemic sclerosis (SSc). The detailed studies on the biological role of autoantibodies in autoimmune skin diseases are limited. This results in a few available tools for effective diagnosis and management of autoimmune skin diseases. This review aims to provide an update on the detection and most recent research on autoantibodies in morphea. Several recent studies have indicated the association of autoantibody profiles with disease subtypes, damage extent, and relapse potential, opening up exciting new possibilities for personalized disease management. We discuss the role of existing autoantibody tests in morphea management and the most recent studies on morphea pathogenesis. We also provide an update on novel autoantibody biomarkers for the diagnosis and study of morphea.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sangita Khatri
- Department of Chemistry, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Kathryn S. Torok
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Emily Mirizio
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Christopher Liu
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Kira Astakhova
- Department of Chemistry, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Torok KS, Li SC, Jacobe HM, Taber SF, Stevens AM, Zulian F, Lu TT. Immunopathogenesis of Pediatric Localized Scleroderma. Front Immunol 2019; 10:908. [PMID: 31114575 PMCID: PMC6503092 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.00908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2019] [Accepted: 04/09/2019] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Localized scleroderma (LS) is a complex disease characterized by a mixture of inflammation and fibrosis of the skin that, especially in the pediatric population, also affects extracutaneous tissues ranging from muscle to the central nervous system. Although developmental origins have been hypothesized, evidence points to LS as a systemic autoimmune disorder, as there is a strong correlation to family history of autoimmune disease, the presence of shared HLA types with rheumatoid arthritis, high frequency of auto-antibodies, and elevated circulating chemokines and cytokines associated with T-helper cell, IFNγ, and other inflammatory pathways. This inflammatory phenotype of the peripheral blood is reflected in the skin via microarray, RNA Sequencing and tissue staining. Research is underway to identify the key players in the pathogenesis of LS, but close approximation of inflammatory lymphocytic and macrophage infiltrate with collagen and fibroblasts deposition supports the notion that LS is a disease of inflammatory driven fibrosis. The immune system is dynamic and undergoes changes during childhood, and we speculate on how the unique features of the immune system in childhood could potentially contribute to some of the differences in LS between children and adults. Interestingly, the immune phenotype in pediatric LS resembles to some extent the healthy adult cellular phenotype, possibly supporting accelerated maturation of the immune system in LS. We discuss future directions in better understanding the pathophysiology of and how to better treat pediatric LS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn S. Torok
- Division of Pediatric Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Childrens's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Suzanne C. Li
- Division of Pediatric Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Hackensack University Medical Center, Hackensack, NJ, United States
- Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine at Seton Hall University, Clifton, NJ, United States
| | - Heidi M. Jacobe
- Department of Dermatology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Sarah F. Taber
- Division of Pediatric Rheumatology, Department of Rheumatology, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY, United States
- Department of Pediatrics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Anne M. Stevens
- Division of Pediatric Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
- Seattle Children's Research Institute, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Francesco Zulian
- Pediatric Rheumatology Unit, Department of Woman's and Child's Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Theresa T. Lu
- Division of Pediatric Rheumatology, Department of Rheumatology, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY, United States
- HSS Research Institute, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY, United States
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Kunzler E, Florez-Pollack S, Teske N, O'Brien J, Prasad S, Jacobe H. Linear morphea: Clinical characteristics, disease course, and treatment of the Morphea in Adults and Children cohort. J Am Acad Dermatol 2019; 80:1664-1670.e1. [PMID: 31005342 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaad.2019.01.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2018] [Revised: 12/05/2018] [Accepted: 01/21/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prospective, longitudinal studies examining the features of linear morphea are limited. OBJECTIVE To utilize the Morphea in Adults and Children cohort to determine clinical characteristics, impact on life quality, and disease course of linear morphea in a prospective, longitudinal manner. METHODS Characteristics of linear morphea versus other subtypes were compared in a cross-sectional manner. Next, linear morphea participants were examined in depth over a 3-year period. RESULTS Linear morphea was the most common morphea subtype (50.1%, 291/581) in the cohort. Deep involvement was more common in linear (64.3%, 187/291) than other morphea subtypes. Linear morphea participants with deep involvement were more likely to have a limitation in range of motion (28.6%, 55/192) than those without (11.1%, 11/99, P < .001). Adult-onset disease occurred in 32.6% (95/291) of those with linear morphea. Frequency of deep involvement was similar between pediatric (66.8%, 131/196) and adult-onset linear morphea (58.9%, 56/95, P = .19). Quality of life and disease activity scores improved over time, while damage stabilized with treatment. LIMITATIONS Results of the study are associative, and the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center is a tertiary referral center. CONCLUSION A substantial number of linear morphea patients have adult-onset disease. In all age groups, linear morphea with deep involvement was associated with functional limitations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elaine Kunzler
- Department of Dermatology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas; Northeast Ohio Medical University, Rootstown, Ohio
| | | | - Noelle Teske
- Department of Dermatology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Jack O'Brien
- Department of Dermatology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Smriti Prasad
- Department of Dermatology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Heidi Jacobe
- Department of Dermatology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
|
39
|
Li SC, Li X, Pope E, Stewart K, Higgins GC, Rabinovich CE, O’Neil KM, Haines KA, Laxer RM, Punaro M, Jacobe H, Andrews T, Wittkowski K, Nyirenda T, Foeldvari I, Torok KS. New Features for Measuring Disease Activity in Pediatric Localized Scleroderma. J Rheumatol 2018; 45:1680-1688. [DOI: 10.3899/jrheum.171381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/25/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Objective.To identify clinical features that define disease activity in pediatric localized scleroderma (LS), and determine their specificity and importance.Methods.We conducted a multicenter prospective study of patients with active and inactive LS skin lesions. A standardized evaluation of a single designated study lesion per subject was performed at 3 visits. We evaluated the pattern and correlation between assessed features and physician’s global assessments of activity (PGA-A).Results.Ninety of 103 subjects had evaluable data; 66 had active and 24 inactive disease. Subjects had similar age of onset, sex, and disease patterns. Linear scleroderma was the most common subtype. Features specific for active disease included erythema, violaceous color, tactile warmth, abnormal skin texture, and disease extension. Scores for these variables changed over time and correlated with PGA-A of the lesion. Active and inactive lesions could not be distinguished by the presence or level of skin thickening, either of lesion edge or center. However, in active lesions, skin thickening scores did correlate with PGA–A scores. Regression analysis identified the combination of erythema, disease extension, violaceous color, skin thickening, and abnormal texture as predictive of PGA-A at study entry. Damage features were common irrespective of activity status.Conclusion.We identified variables strongly associated with disease activity, expanding upon those used in current measures, and determined their relative importance in physician activity scoring. Skin thickening was found to lack specificity for disease activity. These results will help guide development of a sensitive, responsive activity tool to improve care of patients with LS.
Collapse
|
40
|
Abstract
Scleroderma is a rare disease that has two main forms: localized scleroderma (LS) and systemic sclerosis (SSc). Both are chronic diseases, can present in different patterns (subtypes), and are associated with extracutaneous involvement in pediatric patients. Morbidity and mortality is much worse for juvenile SSc with patients at risk for life-threatening lung, heart, and other visceral organ fibrosis and vasculopathy. Mortality is extremely rare in juvenile LS, but morbidity is common, with patients at risk for severe disfigurement and functional impairment. Scleroderma treatment is directed towards controlling inflammation and managing specific problems. Early diagnosis can greatly improve outcome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Suzanne C Li
- Department of Pediatrics, Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine at Seton Hall University, 30 Prospect Avenue, Hackensack, NJ 07601, USA; Division of Pediatric Rheumatology, Joseph M. Sanzari Children's Hospital, Hackensack University Medical Center, 30 Prospect Avenue, Hackensack, NJ 07601, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Martini G, Fadanelli G, Agazzi A, Vittadello F, Meneghel A, Zulian F. Disease course and long-term outcome of juvenile localized scleroderma: Experience from a single pediatric rheumatology Centre and literature review. Autoimmun Rev 2018; 17:727-734. [DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2018.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2018] [Accepted: 02/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
|
42
|
|
43
|
Tollefson MM, Chiu YE, Brandling-Bennett HA, Pope E. Discordance of pediatric morphea treatment by pediatric dermatologists. Pediatr Dermatol 2018; 35:47-54. [PMID: 29165838 DOI: 10.1111/pde.13281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES Studies describing treatment efficacy in pediatric morphea are lacking. Subspecialists have reached no consensus on how to optimally treat pediatric morphea. The objective of the current study was to describe the most common treatment practices of pediatric dermatologists worldwide who care for children with morphea. METHODS A survey regarding topical treatment practices of pediatric morphea, with representative case-based scenarios, was distributed to pediatric dermatologists and results were tallied. RESULTS The survey response rate was 13.4%, with 110 respondents in the final analysis. The majority of respondents agreed on red violaceous rim (99%), increased local warmth (75%), raised borders (69%), and dermal thickening (64%) as signs of disease activity. Respondents had less agreement on sclerotic lesions (41%), scaling (43%), dyspigmentation (19%), and atrophy (13%) as signs of disease activity. Ninety-two percent of respondents used primary therapy or monotherapy with topical medications, including 45% in linear morphea of the limbs and 37% in linear morphea of the head or neck. High-potency topical corticosteroids were most commonly used (80%), although respondents did not agree on specific regimens. Sixteen different treatment regimens were selected as first-line therapy for one case scenario of active disease. CONCLUSION The survey found large variation in how pediatric dermatologists treat pediatric morphea. Consensus treatment guidelines developed by pediatric dermatologists and pediatric rheumatologists are urgently needed regarding the efficacy of therapies for pediatric morphea. Prospective studies of treatment efficacy in pediatric morphea are urgently needed as well.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Megha M Tollefson
- Departments of Dermatology and Pediatrics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Yvonne E Chiu
- Section of Pediatric Dermatology, Departments of Dermatology and Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Heather A Brandling-Bennett
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Pediatrics, Seattle Children's Hospital, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Elena Pope
- Section of Dermatology, Department of Pediatrics, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, USA
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Chu H, Lee JW, Lee YI, Kim DY. Delayed Treatment of Generalized Morphea due to Misdiagnosis as Vitiligo at an Oriental Medical Clinic. Ann Dermatol 2017; 29:649-650. [PMID: 28966531 PMCID: PMC5597668 DOI: 10.5021/ad.2017.29.5.649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2016] [Revised: 06/29/2016] [Accepted: 09/23/2016] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Howard Chu
- Department of Dermatology, Severance Hospital, Cutaneous Biology Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jae Won Lee
- Department of Dermatology, Severance Hospital, Cutaneous Biology Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Young In Lee
- Department of Dermatology, Severance Hospital, Cutaneous Biology Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Do Young Kim
- Department of Dermatology, Severance Hospital, Cutaneous Biology Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Nowak-Göttl U, Clausnizer H, Kowalski D, Limperger V, Krümpel A, Shneyder M, Reinke S, Rocke A, Juhl D, Steppat D, Krause M. Health-related quality of life in children, adolescents and adults with hereditary and acquired bleeding disorders. Blood Cells Mol Dis 2017; 67:96-101. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bcmd.2016.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2016] [Accepted: 11/11/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
|
46
|
Abstract
Morphea, also known as localized scleroderma, encompasses a group of idiopathic sclerotic skin diseases. The spectrum ranges from relatively mild phenotypes, which generally cause few problems besides local discomfort and visible disfigurement, to subtypes with severe complications such as joint contractures and limb length discrepancies. Eosinophilic fasciitis (EF, Shulman syndrome) is often regarded as belonging to the severe end of the morphea spectrum. The exact driving mechanisms behind morphea and EF pathogenesis remain to be elucidated. However, extensive extracellular matrix formation and autoimmune dysfunction are thought to be key pathogenic processes. Likewise, these processes are considered essential in systemic sclerosis (SSc) pathogenesis. In addition, similarities in clinical presentation between morphea and SSc have led to many theories about their relatedness. Importantly, morphea may be differentiated from SSc based on absence of sclerodactyly, Raynaud’s phenomenon, and nailfold capillary changes. The diagnosis of morphea is often based on characteristic clinical findings. Histopathological evaluation of skin biopsies and laboratory tests are not necessary in the majority of morphea cases. However, full-thickness skin biopsies, containing fascia and muscle tissue, are required for the diagnosis of EF. Monitoring of disease activity and damage, especially of subcutaneous involvement, is one of the most challenging aspects of morphea care. Therefore, data harmonization is crucial for optimizing standard care and for comparability of study results. Recently, the localized scleroderma cutaneous assessment tool (LoSCAT) has been developed and validated for morphea. The LoSCAT is currently the most widely reported outcome measure for morphea. Care providers should take disease subtype, degree of activity, depth of involvement, and quality-of-life impairments into account when initiating treatment. In most patients with circumscribed superficial subtypes, treatment with topical therapies suffices. In more widespread disease, UVA1 phototherapy or systemic treatment with methotrexate (MTX), with or without a systemic corticosteroid combination, should be initiated. Disappointingly, few alternatives for MTX have been described and additional research is still needed to optimize treatment for these debilitating conditions. In this review, we present a state-of-the-art flow chart that guides care providers in the treatment of morphea and EF.
Collapse
|
47
|
Lis-Święty A, Skrzypek-Salamon A, Ranosz-Janicka I, Brzezińska-Wcisło L. Localized scleroderma: clinical and epidemiological features with emphasis on adulthood- versus childhood-onset disease differences. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2017; 31:1595-1603. [DOI: 10.1111/jdv.14197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2017] [Accepted: 02/21/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- A. Lis-Święty
- Department of Dermatology; School of Medicine in Katowice; Medical University of Silesia; Katowice Poland
| | - A. Skrzypek-Salamon
- Department of Dermatology; School of Medicine in Katowice; Medical University of Silesia; Katowice Poland
| | - I. Ranosz-Janicka
- Department of Dermatology; School of Medicine in Katowice; Medical University of Silesia; Katowice Poland
| | - L. Brzezińska-Wcisło
- Department of Dermatology; School of Medicine in Katowice; Medical University of Silesia; Katowice Poland
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Musculoskeletal MRI findings of juvenile localized scleroderma. Pediatr Radiol 2017; 47:442-449. [PMID: 28091699 DOI: 10.1007/s00247-016-3765-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2016] [Revised: 10/17/2016] [Accepted: 12/06/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Juvenile localized scleroderma comprises a group of autoimmune conditions often characterized clinically by an area of skin hardening. In addition to superficial changes in the skin and subcutaneous tissues, juvenile localized scleroderma may involve the deep soft tissues, bones and joints, possibly resulting in functional impairment and pain in addition to cosmetic changes. OBJECTIVE There is literature documenting the spectrum of findings for deep involvement of localized scleroderma (fascia, muscles, tendons, bones and joints) in adults, but there is limited literature for the condition in children. We aimed to document the spectrum of musculoskeletal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings of both superficial and deep juvenile localized scleroderma involvement in children and to evaluate the utility of various MRI sequences for detecting those findings. MATERIALS AND METHODS Two radiologists retrospectively evaluated 20 MRI studies of the extremities in 14 children with juvenile localized scleroderma. Each imaging sequence was also given a subjective score of 0 (not useful), 1 (somewhat useful) or 2 (most useful for detecting the findings). RESULTS Deep tissue involvement was detected in 65% of the imaged extremities. Fascial thickening and enhancement were seen in 50% of imaged extremities. Axial T1, axial T1 fat-suppressed (FS) contrast-enhanced and axial fluid-sensitive sequences were rated most useful. CONCLUSION Fascial thickening and enhancement were the most commonly encountered deep tissue findings in extremity MRIs of children with juvenile localized scleroderma. Because abnormalities of the skin, subcutaneous tissues and fascia tend to run longitudinally in an affected limb, axial T1, axial fluid-sensitive and axial T1-FS contrast-enhanced sequences should be included in the imaging protocol.
Collapse
|
49
|
[Facial linear scleroderma associated with neurological abnormalities relating to microangiopathy]. Ann Dermatol Venereol 2016; 143:831-835. [PMID: 27663385 DOI: 10.1016/j.annder.2016.02.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2015] [Revised: 01/25/2016] [Accepted: 02/19/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Linear scleroderma is a fibrotic disease affecting the skin and sometimes the deeper tissues. We describe a case of scleroderma associated with neurological anomalies not previously reported in the literature. PATIENTS AND METHODS A 16-year-old male patient presented in 2009 for hemifacial linear scleroderma. Treatment with methotrexate for 14 months resulted in stabilization of the disease. In 2013, we noted worsening of the patient's skin lesions as well as homolateral ptosis. Head MRI revealed unilateral hemispherical signal abnormalities with T2 hypersignal in the basal gangliaand punctate foci of T2* hyposignal corresponding to microbleeds. In 2014 and 2015, the patient presented three brief episodes of right hemicorpus paresthesia (with temporary aphasia followed by headache during the first episode). The head MRI showed worsening of the anomalies, suggesting progressing cerebral microangiopathy. DISCUSSION Clinicians may not always be familiar with the neurological abnormalities associated with localized facial scleroderma even if such abnormalities are not uncommon (their exact prevalence is unknown). Clinical signs vary but, in most cases, the radiological features are calcifications and hyperintense foci of white matter lesions in T2. As far as we are aware, there have been no reports to date of microbleeding as observed in our patient. The worsening with time of these neurological anomalies of unknown origin does not appear to be correlated with the dermatological lesions. It is important for dermatologists be aware of these complications of facial linear scleroderma.
Collapse
|
50
|
Lis-Święty A, Janicka I, Skrzypek-Salamon A, Brzezińska-Wcisło L. A systematic review of tools for determining activity of localized scleroderma in paediatric and adult patients. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2016; 31:30-37. [PMID: 27401109 DOI: 10.1111/jdv.13790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2016] [Accepted: 04/26/2016] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Localized scleroderma (LoS) is a rare inflammatory skin disorder that affects the dermis and sometimes subcutaneous tissues. LoS can have very long periods of quiescence followed by reactivation, but the progression or activity of the disease is difficult to measure. To review the measuring tools used for the evaluation of LoS activity, to choose the most appropriate technique to facilitate progress towards properly assessing the disease, a systematic review of the literature was carried out using the PubMed MEDLINE. Sixty-three studies describing groups of children, adults or both were reviewed and included in the analysis. Case reports were excluded. The analysed papers were published between June 1986 and February 2016. Data were extracted with a focus on instruments measuring the clinical signs of LoS, health-related quality of life (HRQoL), laboratory tests and imaging techniques. Perusal of the literature confirmed that clinical characteristics of the lesions were used to identify activity and scoring systems that focused on a series of signs, and were initially validated in cases of childhood-onset disease; however, there were no data concerning the adult-onset form of the disease. Adult patients with LoS scored lower on HDLQI than those with paediatric-onset LoS. No validated biological markers were available as correlative laboratory parameters of LoS activity. For infrared thermography, ultrasound and other imaging techniques, the features of active lesions were described, but were only useful with appropriate clinical correlation. Measuring tools have not been prospectively validated yet. Summarizing, scoring methods seem to provide the most adequate assessment of LoS and deserve to be further investigated. Combined imaging techniques create optimal conditions for the proper interpretation of the temperature at the skin surface, as well as the structure and vascularity of LoS lesions. Additional scores, musculoskeletal or neuroimaging techniques and laboratory parameters are needed for the specific disease subtypes to monitor extracutaneous manifestations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Lis-Święty
- School of Medicine in Katowice, Chair and Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - I Janicka
- School of Medicine in Katowice, Chair and Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - A Skrzypek-Salamon
- School of Medicine in Katowice, Chair and Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - L Brzezińska-Wcisło
- School of Medicine in Katowice, Chair and Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| |
Collapse
|