1
|
Assaraf M, Chevet B, Wendling D, Philippe P, Cailliau E, Roux C, Dieude P, Ottaviani S, Avouac J, Delacour M, Houvenagel E, Sellam J, Cortet B, Henry J, Flipo RM, Devauchelle-Pensec V. Efficacy and management of tocilizumab in polymyalgia rheumatica: results of a multicentre retrospective observational study. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2024; 63:2065-2073. [PMID: 37603729 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/kead426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The efficacy of anti-IL-6 receptors such as tocilizumab (TCZ) was demonstrated in patients with PMR in two recent randomized controlled trials. The objective of this multicentre retrospective study was to assess the efficacy of TCZ in PMR patients requiring glucocorticoid (GC)-sparing treatment, as well as different strategies for TCZ withdrawal. METHODS We conducted a multicentre study in French tertiary healthcare departments for patients with PMR. PMR patients receiving off-label TCZ between 2015 and 2022 were included. The primary endpoint was the proportion of patients tapering to GCs ≤5 mg/day 6 months after the first TCZ infusion. The secondary endpoints were the proportion in whom GC was discontinued during follow-up, and the proportion of patients in whom TCZ was discontinued. RESULTS Fifty-three PMR patients were included. Thirty-one patients suffered from active PMR despite conventional synthetic DMARDs. GCs were ≤5 mg/day in 77% of the patients (95% CI 36-89) at 6 months, and in 97% of the patients at 12 months. Six and 12 months after the first TCZ infusion, the proportions of GC-free patients were 22.5% (95% CI 12.7-37.8) and 58.3% (95% CI 43.2-74.1), respectively. Among TCZ withdrawal strategies, TCZ infusion spacing and TCZ dose reduction were more successful (success in 87% and 79% of attempts, respectively) than TCZ discontinuation (success in 52% of attempts; P = 0.012 and P = 0.039, respectively). CONCLUSION In GC-dependent PMR patients, treatment with TCZ led to a drastic decrease in GC dose and remission of PMR. TCZ dose reduction or TCZ infusion spacing are good options to consider in TCZ withdrawal.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Morgane Assaraf
- Rheumatology Department, ULR 4490, Université de Lille, Lille University Hospital, Lille, France
| | - Baptiste Chevet
- Rheumatology Department and Centre de Référence de Maladies Auto-Immunes Rares de l'Adulte (CERAINO), CHU de Brest, Brest, France
- LBAI UMR 1227, Université de Brest, Inserm, CHU de Brest, Brest, France
| | - Daniel Wendling
- Rheumatology Department, CHU Besançon, EA 4266 Université de Franche-Comté, Besançon, France
| | - Peggy Philippe
- Rheumatology Department, ULR 4490, Université de Lille, Lille University Hospital, Lille, France
| | | | - Christian Roux
- Rheumatology Department, CNRS, INSERM, iBV, Université Cote d'Azur, CHU Nice, Nice, France
| | | | | | - Jérôme Avouac
- Rheumatology Department, Hôpital Cochin, AP-HP, Centre-Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | | | | | - Jérémie Sellam
- Rheumatology Department, Hôpital Saint-Antoine, AP-HP, INSERM UMRS_938, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
| | - Bernard Cortet
- Rheumatology Department, ULR 4490, Université de Lille, Lille University Hospital, Lille, France
| | - Julien Henry
- Rheumatology Department, AP-HP, Université Paris Saclay, Hôpital Bicêtre, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - René-Marc Flipo
- Rheumatology Department, ULR 4490, Université de Lille, Lille University Hospital, Lille, France
| | - Valérie Devauchelle-Pensec
- Rheumatology Department and Centre de Référence de Maladies Auto-Immunes Rares de l'Adulte (CERAINO), CHU de Brest, Brest, France
- LBAI UMR 1227, Université de Brest, Inserm, CHU de Brest, Brest, France
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Tanaka Y, Tanaka S, Fukasawa T, Inokuchi S, Uenaka H, Kimura T, Takahashi T, Kato N. Glucocorticoid treatment and clinical outcomes in patients with polymyalgia rheumatica: A cohort study using routinely collected health data. Joint Bone Spine 2024; 91:105680. [PMID: 38143016 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbspin.2023.105680] [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: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We aimed to describe the following in patients with polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR): (1) real-world glucocorticoid (GC) therapy, (2) improvement in inflammatory parameters associated with disease activity (C-reactive protein [CRP] level and erythrocyte sedimentation rate [ESR]), and (3) incidence of GC-related adverse events (AEs). METHODS A cohort study was conducted using a Japanese electronic medical records database. We included newly diagnosed PMR patients aged≥50years with baseline CRP levels≥10mg/L and/or ESR>30mm/h and an initial GC dose of≥5mg/day. The outcomes were GC dose, inflammatory parameters, and GC-related AEs. RESULTS A total of 373 PMR patients (mean age, 77.3 years) were analyzed. The median initial GC dose was 15.0mg/day, which gradually decreased to 3.5mg/day by week 52. The median cumulative GC dose at week 52 was 2455.0mg. The median CRP level on day 0 was 64.3mg/L, which decreased during weeks 4-52 (1.4-3.2mg/L). At week 52, 39.0% of patients had a CRP level>3.0mg/L. The cumulative incidence of GC-related AEs at week 52 was 49.0% for osteoporosis, 30.2% for diabetes, 14.9% for hypertension, 12.2% for peptic ulcer, 11.3% for dyslipidemia, 2.9% for glaucoma, and 4.3% for serious infection. The incidence of osteoporosis and diabetes increased with the GC dose. CONCLUSION The incidence of GC-related AEs was associated with the GC dose in PMR patients. Further research is required to identify treatment strategies that can effectively control PMR disease activity while minimizing GC use.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yoshiya Tanaka
- First Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Japan, 1-1 Iseigaoka, Yahatanishi-ku, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka, 807-8555 Japan
| | - Shinichi Tanaka
- Medical Affairs Department, Asahi Kasei Pharma Corporation, 1-1-2 Yurakucho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 100-0006 Japan
| | - Toshiki Fukasawa
- Research and Analytics Department, Real World Data Co., Ltd., Shiseido Kyoto Bld.4F, 480, Aburanokojidori Kizuyabashi-sagaru Kitafudondocho Shimogyo-ku kyoto-shi, Kyoto, 600-8233 Japan
| | - Shoichiro Inokuchi
- Research and Analytics Department, Real World Data Co., Ltd., Shiseido Kyoto Bld.4F, 480, Aburanokojidori Kizuyabashi-sagaru Kitafudondocho Shimogyo-ku kyoto-shi, Kyoto, 600-8233 Japan
| | - Hidetoshi Uenaka
- Research and Analytics Department, Real World Data Co., Ltd., Shiseido Kyoto Bld.4F, 480, Aburanokojidori Kizuyabashi-sagaru Kitafudondocho Shimogyo-ku kyoto-shi, Kyoto, 600-8233 Japan
| | - Takeshi Kimura
- Research and Analytics Department, Real World Data Co., Ltd., Shiseido Kyoto Bld.4F, 480, Aburanokojidori Kizuyabashi-sagaru Kitafudondocho Shimogyo-ku kyoto-shi, Kyoto, 600-8233 Japan
| | - Toshiya Takahashi
- Medical Affairs Department, Asahi Kasei Pharma Corporation, 1-1-2 Yurakucho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 100-0006 Japan; Specialty Care Medical, Sanofi K.K., 3-20-2, Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 163-1488 Japan
| | - Naoto Kato
- Medical Affairs Department, Asahi Kasei Pharma Corporation, 1-1-2 Yurakucho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 100-0006 Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Florescu MM, Bobircă F, Florescu A, Pădureanu V, Bobircă A, Ciurea PL, Criveanu C, Florescu LM, Muşetescu AE. Polymyalgia rheumatica: An update (Review). Exp Ther Med 2023; 26:543. [PMID: 37928511 PMCID: PMC10623218 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2023.12242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) is a chronic inflammatory disease which affects the connective vascular tissue, characterized by pain accompanied by morning stiffness, predominantly of the neck muscles, hip and shoulder girdle. Usually, patients with this disease are >50 years of age and biological inflammatory syndrome is present with an increase in both the erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein levels, aspects similar to giant cell arteritis. The aim of the present review was to depict the current pathogenic hypothesis, diagnostic and treatment approach for patients with PMR, and novelties since the development of the currently used 2012 European League Against Rheumatism and American College of Rheumatology provisional classification criteria. PMR is a prevalent disease that can occasionally prove difficult to diagnose and treat. Possibly, the most abundant type of evidence and data revealed over the past decade have been acquired through musculoskeletal imaging, with implications in diagnosis, disease monitoring and relapse, prognosis and changes with treatment. Further research on pathophysiology is required to gain a deeper understanding of the underlying processes, which will serve as the foundation for future personalized treatments. In addition, there is an increasing demand for improved diagnostic techniques, which should include a further development of various imaging modalities, in order to provide accurate diagnosis and appropriate therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mirela Marinela Florescu
- Department of Pathology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Florin Bobircă
- Department of General Surgery, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Dr I. Cantacuzino Clinical Hospital, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Alesandra Florescu
- Department of Rheumatology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Vlad Pădureanu
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Anca Bobircă
- Department of Rheumatology and Internal Medicine, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Paulina Lucia Ciurea
- Department of Rheumatology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Cristina Criveanu
- Department of Rheumatology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Lucian Mihai Florescu
- Department of Radiology and Medical Imaging, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Anca Emanuela Muşetescu
- Department of Rheumatology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Spiera RF, Unizony S, Warrington KJ, Sloane J, Giannelou A, Nivens MC, Akinlade B, Wong W, Bhore R, Lin Y, Buttgereit F, Devauchelle-Pensec V, Rubbert-Roth A, Yancopoulos GD, Marrache F, Patel N, Dasgupta B. Sarilumab for Relapse of Polymyalgia Rheumatica during Glucocorticoid Taper. N Engl J Med 2023; 389:1263-1272. [PMID: 37792612 DOI: 10.1056/nejmoa2303452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND More than half of patients with polymyalgia rheumatica have a relapse during tapering of glucocorticoid therapy. Previous studies have suggested that interleukin-6 blockade may be clinically useful in the treatment of polymyalgia rheumatica. Sarilumab, a human monoclonal antibody, binds interleukin-6 receptor α and efficiently blocks the interleukin-6 pathway. METHODS In this phase 3 trial, we randomly assigned patients in a 1:1 ratio to receive 52 weeks of a twice-monthly subcutaneous injection of either sarilumab (at a dose of 200 mg) plus a 14-week prednisone taper or placebo plus a 52-week prednisone taper. The primary outcome at 52 weeks was sustained remission, which was defined as the resolution of signs and symptoms of polymyalgia rheumatica by week 12 and sustained normalization of the C-reactive protein level, absence of disease flare, and adherence to the prednisone taper from weeks 12 through 52. RESULTS A total of 118 patients underwent randomization (60 to receive sarilumab and 58 to receive placebo). At week 52, sustained remission occurred in 28% (17 of 60 patients) in the sarilumab group and in 10% (6 of 58 patients) in the placebo group (difference, 18 percentage points; 95% confidence interval, 4 to 32; P = 0.02). The median cumulative glucocorticoid dose at 52 weeks was significantly lower in the sarilumab group than in the placebo group (777 mg vs. 2044 mg; P<0.001). The most common adverse events with sarilumab as compared with placebo were neutropenia (15% vs. 0%), arthralgia (15% vs. 5%), and diarrhea (12% vs. 2%). More treatment-related discontinuations were observed in the sarilumab group than in the placebo group (12% vs. 7%). CONCLUSIONS Sarilumab showed significant efficacy in achieving sustained remission and reducing the cumulative glucocorticoid dose in patients with a relapse of polymyalgia rheumatica during glucocorticoid tapering. (Funded by Sanofi and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals; SAPHYR ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT03600818.).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robert F Spiera
- From the Hospital for Special Surgery, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York (R.F.S.), and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Tarrytown (A.G., M.C.N., B.A., R.B., G.D.Y.) - both in New York; the Vasculitis and Glomerulonephritis Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (S.U.), and Sanofi, Cambridge (J.S., N.P.) - both in Massachusetts; the Division of Rheumatology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN (K.J.W.); Sanofi, Bridgewater, NJ (W.W., Y.L.); the Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité University Medicine, Berlin (F.B.); CHRU de Brest, Service de Rhumatologie, Brest (V.D.-P.), and Sanofi, Chilly-Mazarin (F.M.) - both in France; the Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Cantonal Hospital St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland (A.R.-R.); and Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, United Kingdom (B.D.)
| | - Sebastian Unizony
- From the Hospital for Special Surgery, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York (R.F.S.), and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Tarrytown (A.G., M.C.N., B.A., R.B., G.D.Y.) - both in New York; the Vasculitis and Glomerulonephritis Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (S.U.), and Sanofi, Cambridge (J.S., N.P.) - both in Massachusetts; the Division of Rheumatology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN (K.J.W.); Sanofi, Bridgewater, NJ (W.W., Y.L.); the Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité University Medicine, Berlin (F.B.); CHRU de Brest, Service de Rhumatologie, Brest (V.D.-P.), and Sanofi, Chilly-Mazarin (F.M.) - both in France; the Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Cantonal Hospital St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland (A.R.-R.); and Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, United Kingdom (B.D.)
| | - Kenneth J Warrington
- From the Hospital for Special Surgery, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York (R.F.S.), and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Tarrytown (A.G., M.C.N., B.A., R.B., G.D.Y.) - both in New York; the Vasculitis and Glomerulonephritis Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (S.U.), and Sanofi, Cambridge (J.S., N.P.) - both in Massachusetts; the Division of Rheumatology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN (K.J.W.); Sanofi, Bridgewater, NJ (W.W., Y.L.); the Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité University Medicine, Berlin (F.B.); CHRU de Brest, Service de Rhumatologie, Brest (V.D.-P.), and Sanofi, Chilly-Mazarin (F.M.) - both in France; the Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Cantonal Hospital St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland (A.R.-R.); and Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, United Kingdom (B.D.)
| | - Jennifer Sloane
- From the Hospital for Special Surgery, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York (R.F.S.), and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Tarrytown (A.G., M.C.N., B.A., R.B., G.D.Y.) - both in New York; the Vasculitis and Glomerulonephritis Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (S.U.), and Sanofi, Cambridge (J.S., N.P.) - both in Massachusetts; the Division of Rheumatology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN (K.J.W.); Sanofi, Bridgewater, NJ (W.W., Y.L.); the Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité University Medicine, Berlin (F.B.); CHRU de Brest, Service de Rhumatologie, Brest (V.D.-P.), and Sanofi, Chilly-Mazarin (F.M.) - both in France; the Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Cantonal Hospital St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland (A.R.-R.); and Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, United Kingdom (B.D.)
| | - Angeliki Giannelou
- From the Hospital for Special Surgery, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York (R.F.S.), and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Tarrytown (A.G., M.C.N., B.A., R.B., G.D.Y.) - both in New York; the Vasculitis and Glomerulonephritis Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (S.U.), and Sanofi, Cambridge (J.S., N.P.) - both in Massachusetts; the Division of Rheumatology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN (K.J.W.); Sanofi, Bridgewater, NJ (W.W., Y.L.); the Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité University Medicine, Berlin (F.B.); CHRU de Brest, Service de Rhumatologie, Brest (V.D.-P.), and Sanofi, Chilly-Mazarin (F.M.) - both in France; the Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Cantonal Hospital St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland (A.R.-R.); and Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, United Kingdom (B.D.)
| | - Michael C Nivens
- From the Hospital for Special Surgery, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York (R.F.S.), and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Tarrytown (A.G., M.C.N., B.A., R.B., G.D.Y.) - both in New York; the Vasculitis and Glomerulonephritis Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (S.U.), and Sanofi, Cambridge (J.S., N.P.) - both in Massachusetts; the Division of Rheumatology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN (K.J.W.); Sanofi, Bridgewater, NJ (W.W., Y.L.); the Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité University Medicine, Berlin (F.B.); CHRU de Brest, Service de Rhumatologie, Brest (V.D.-P.), and Sanofi, Chilly-Mazarin (F.M.) - both in France; the Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Cantonal Hospital St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland (A.R.-R.); and Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, United Kingdom (B.D.)
| | - Bolanle Akinlade
- From the Hospital for Special Surgery, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York (R.F.S.), and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Tarrytown (A.G., M.C.N., B.A., R.B., G.D.Y.) - both in New York; the Vasculitis and Glomerulonephritis Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (S.U.), and Sanofi, Cambridge (J.S., N.P.) - both in Massachusetts; the Division of Rheumatology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN (K.J.W.); Sanofi, Bridgewater, NJ (W.W., Y.L.); the Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité University Medicine, Berlin (F.B.); CHRU de Brest, Service de Rhumatologie, Brest (V.D.-P.), and Sanofi, Chilly-Mazarin (F.M.) - both in France; the Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Cantonal Hospital St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland (A.R.-R.); and Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, United Kingdom (B.D.)
| | - Wanling Wong
- From the Hospital for Special Surgery, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York (R.F.S.), and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Tarrytown (A.G., M.C.N., B.A., R.B., G.D.Y.) - both in New York; the Vasculitis and Glomerulonephritis Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (S.U.), and Sanofi, Cambridge (J.S., N.P.) - both in Massachusetts; the Division of Rheumatology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN (K.J.W.); Sanofi, Bridgewater, NJ (W.W., Y.L.); the Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité University Medicine, Berlin (F.B.); CHRU de Brest, Service de Rhumatologie, Brest (V.D.-P.), and Sanofi, Chilly-Mazarin (F.M.) - both in France; the Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Cantonal Hospital St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland (A.R.-R.); and Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, United Kingdom (B.D.)
| | - Rafia Bhore
- From the Hospital for Special Surgery, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York (R.F.S.), and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Tarrytown (A.G., M.C.N., B.A., R.B., G.D.Y.) - both in New York; the Vasculitis and Glomerulonephritis Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (S.U.), and Sanofi, Cambridge (J.S., N.P.) - both in Massachusetts; the Division of Rheumatology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN (K.J.W.); Sanofi, Bridgewater, NJ (W.W., Y.L.); the Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité University Medicine, Berlin (F.B.); CHRU de Brest, Service de Rhumatologie, Brest (V.D.-P.), and Sanofi, Chilly-Mazarin (F.M.) - both in France; the Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Cantonal Hospital St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland (A.R.-R.); and Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, United Kingdom (B.D.)
| | - Yong Lin
- From the Hospital for Special Surgery, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York (R.F.S.), and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Tarrytown (A.G., M.C.N., B.A., R.B., G.D.Y.) - both in New York; the Vasculitis and Glomerulonephritis Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (S.U.), and Sanofi, Cambridge (J.S., N.P.) - both in Massachusetts; the Division of Rheumatology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN (K.J.W.); Sanofi, Bridgewater, NJ (W.W., Y.L.); the Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité University Medicine, Berlin (F.B.); CHRU de Brest, Service de Rhumatologie, Brest (V.D.-P.), and Sanofi, Chilly-Mazarin (F.M.) - both in France; the Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Cantonal Hospital St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland (A.R.-R.); and Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, United Kingdom (B.D.)
| | - Frank Buttgereit
- From the Hospital for Special Surgery, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York (R.F.S.), and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Tarrytown (A.G., M.C.N., B.A., R.B., G.D.Y.) - both in New York; the Vasculitis and Glomerulonephritis Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (S.U.), and Sanofi, Cambridge (J.S., N.P.) - both in Massachusetts; the Division of Rheumatology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN (K.J.W.); Sanofi, Bridgewater, NJ (W.W., Y.L.); the Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité University Medicine, Berlin (F.B.); CHRU de Brest, Service de Rhumatologie, Brest (V.D.-P.), and Sanofi, Chilly-Mazarin (F.M.) - both in France; the Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Cantonal Hospital St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland (A.R.-R.); and Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, United Kingdom (B.D.)
| | - Valerie Devauchelle-Pensec
- From the Hospital for Special Surgery, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York (R.F.S.), and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Tarrytown (A.G., M.C.N., B.A., R.B., G.D.Y.) - both in New York; the Vasculitis and Glomerulonephritis Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (S.U.), and Sanofi, Cambridge (J.S., N.P.) - both in Massachusetts; the Division of Rheumatology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN (K.J.W.); Sanofi, Bridgewater, NJ (W.W., Y.L.); the Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité University Medicine, Berlin (F.B.); CHRU de Brest, Service de Rhumatologie, Brest (V.D.-P.), and Sanofi, Chilly-Mazarin (F.M.) - both in France; the Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Cantonal Hospital St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland (A.R.-R.); and Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, United Kingdom (B.D.)
| | - Andrea Rubbert-Roth
- From the Hospital for Special Surgery, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York (R.F.S.), and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Tarrytown (A.G., M.C.N., B.A., R.B., G.D.Y.) - both in New York; the Vasculitis and Glomerulonephritis Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (S.U.), and Sanofi, Cambridge (J.S., N.P.) - both in Massachusetts; the Division of Rheumatology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN (K.J.W.); Sanofi, Bridgewater, NJ (W.W., Y.L.); the Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité University Medicine, Berlin (F.B.); CHRU de Brest, Service de Rhumatologie, Brest (V.D.-P.), and Sanofi, Chilly-Mazarin (F.M.) - both in France; the Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Cantonal Hospital St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland (A.R.-R.); and Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, United Kingdom (B.D.)
| | - George D Yancopoulos
- From the Hospital for Special Surgery, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York (R.F.S.), and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Tarrytown (A.G., M.C.N., B.A., R.B., G.D.Y.) - both in New York; the Vasculitis and Glomerulonephritis Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (S.U.), and Sanofi, Cambridge (J.S., N.P.) - both in Massachusetts; the Division of Rheumatology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN (K.J.W.); Sanofi, Bridgewater, NJ (W.W., Y.L.); the Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité University Medicine, Berlin (F.B.); CHRU de Brest, Service de Rhumatologie, Brest (V.D.-P.), and Sanofi, Chilly-Mazarin (F.M.) - both in France; the Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Cantonal Hospital St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland (A.R.-R.); and Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, United Kingdom (B.D.)
| | - Frederic Marrache
- From the Hospital for Special Surgery, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York (R.F.S.), and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Tarrytown (A.G., M.C.N., B.A., R.B., G.D.Y.) - both in New York; the Vasculitis and Glomerulonephritis Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (S.U.), and Sanofi, Cambridge (J.S., N.P.) - both in Massachusetts; the Division of Rheumatology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN (K.J.W.); Sanofi, Bridgewater, NJ (W.W., Y.L.); the Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité University Medicine, Berlin (F.B.); CHRU de Brest, Service de Rhumatologie, Brest (V.D.-P.), and Sanofi, Chilly-Mazarin (F.M.) - both in France; the Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Cantonal Hospital St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland (A.R.-R.); and Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, United Kingdom (B.D.)
| | - Naimish Patel
- From the Hospital for Special Surgery, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York (R.F.S.), and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Tarrytown (A.G., M.C.N., B.A., R.B., G.D.Y.) - both in New York; the Vasculitis and Glomerulonephritis Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (S.U.), and Sanofi, Cambridge (J.S., N.P.) - both in Massachusetts; the Division of Rheumatology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN (K.J.W.); Sanofi, Bridgewater, NJ (W.W., Y.L.); the Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité University Medicine, Berlin (F.B.); CHRU de Brest, Service de Rhumatologie, Brest (V.D.-P.), and Sanofi, Chilly-Mazarin (F.M.) - both in France; the Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Cantonal Hospital St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland (A.R.-R.); and Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, United Kingdom (B.D.)
| | - Bhaskar Dasgupta
- From the Hospital for Special Surgery, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York (R.F.S.), and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Tarrytown (A.G., M.C.N., B.A., R.B., G.D.Y.) - both in New York; the Vasculitis and Glomerulonephritis Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (S.U.), and Sanofi, Cambridge (J.S., N.P.) - both in Massachusetts; the Division of Rheumatology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN (K.J.W.); Sanofi, Bridgewater, NJ (W.W., Y.L.); the Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité University Medicine, Berlin (F.B.); CHRU de Brest, Service de Rhumatologie, Brest (V.D.-P.), and Sanofi, Chilly-Mazarin (F.M.) - both in France; the Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Cantonal Hospital St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland (A.R.-R.); and Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, United Kingdom (B.D.)
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Wendling D. Biological therapy in polymyalgia rheumatica. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2023; 23:1255-1263. [PMID: 37994867 DOI: 10.1080/14712598.2023.2287097] [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: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) is an inflammatory rheumatic disease of the elderly, treated mainly with systemic corticosteroids. The frequency of side effects of steroids is high in this aged population and increased due to comorbidities. The use of biological treatments could be of interest in this condition. AREAS COVERED This review takes into account literature data from the PubMed and clinical trial databases concerning the results of the use of biological treatments in PMR, in terms of efficacy and safety of these treatments. EXPERT OPINION Current data do not allow us to identify any particular efficacy of the various anti-TNF agents used in the treatment of PMR. Anti-interleukin 6 agents (tocilizumab, sarilumab) have shown consistent efficacy results, suggesting a particularly interesting steroid-sparing effect in the population under consideration. The safety profile appears acceptable. Other biologic targeted treatments are currently being evaluated. Anti-interleukin-6 agents may well have a place in the therapeutic strategy for PMR, particularly for patients with steroid-resistant disease or at high risk of complications of corticosteroid therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Wendling
- Rheumatology, CHU (University Teaching Hospital), Besançon, France
- EA4266 EPILAB, Université de Franche-Comté, Besançon, France
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Ricordi C, Pipitone N, Marvisi C, Muratore F, Salvarani C. Steroid-sparing agents in polymyalgia rheumatica: how will they fit into the treatment paradigm? Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2023; 19:1195-1203. [PMID: 37480289 DOI: 10.1080/1744666x.2023.2240519] [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: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/24/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Polymyalgia rheumatica is a common inflammatory rheumatic disease in subjects aged 50 years or older and classically presents with shoulder and/or pelvic girdle pain and prolonged morning stiffness. Glucocorticoids represent the standard of treatment; glucocorticoid therapy is usually required for 1-2 years and often results in significant glucocorticoid-related side effects, especially in the elderly. AREAS COVERED In this review, we aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of the management of polymyalgia rheumatica, with a particular focus on adjunctive therapies to the standard glucocorticoid treatment. EXPERT OPINION Given the high frequency of disease relapses (one-third of patients) and the adverse events related to prolonged glucocorticoid use, the need for glucocorticoid-sparing agents remains an important issue in the management of polymyalgia rheumatica. In selected patients, who are at risk for glucocorticoid-related side effects or in those with glucocorticoid-refractory disease, the addition of a glucocorticoid-sparing agent, either a synthetic or biologic disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drug, may represent a reasonable and effective therapeutic approach.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caterina Ricordi
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medical Specialty, Azienda USL, Istituto di Ricovero E Cura a Carattere Scientifico, Reggio Emilia, Italy
- Department of Surgery, Medicine Dentistry and Morphological Sciences with Interest in Transplant, Università di Modena E Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Nicolò Pipitone
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medical Specialty, Azienda USL, Istituto di Ricovero E Cura a Carattere Scientifico, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Chiara Marvisi
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medical Specialty, Azienda USL, Istituto di Ricovero E Cura a Carattere Scientifico, Reggio Emilia, Italy
- Department of Surgery, Medicine Dentistry and Morphological Sciences with Interest in Transplant, Università di Modena E Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Francesco Muratore
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medical Specialty, Azienda USL, Istituto di Ricovero E Cura a Carattere Scientifico, Reggio Emilia, Italy
- Department of Surgery, Medicine Dentistry and Morphological Sciences with Interest in Transplant, Università di Modena E Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Carlo Salvarani
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medical Specialty, Azienda USL, Istituto di Ricovero E Cura a Carattere Scientifico, Reggio Emilia, Italy
- Department of Surgery, Medicine Dentistry and Morphological Sciences with Interest in Transplant, Università di Modena E Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Colaci M, Dichiara J, Aprile ML, Ippolito M, Schinocca C, Guggino G, Malatino L. Use of 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography-computed tomography in patients affected by polymyalgia rheumatica and persistent increase of acute phase reactants. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:1042620. [PMID: 36465900 PMCID: PMC9709413 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.1042620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 07/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) is an inflammatory disease affecting older adults characterized by aching pain and morning stiffness of the shoulder and pelvic girdles. Moreover, PMR can be associated with giant cell arteritis (GCA). Generally, PMR is highly responsive to steroids, reaching complete remission in the majority of cases. However, the possibility of occult diseases, including extra-cranial GCA, should be excluded. 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (18F-FDG-PET) is able to detect the presence of peri-/articular or vascular inflammation, which may be both present in PMR, thus representing a useful diagnostic tool, mainly in presence of extra-cranial GCA. We retrospectively evaluated all consecutive patients who received the diagnosis of PMR in our rheumatology clinic, classified according to the 2012 American College of Rheumatology/European League Against Rheumatism (ACR/EULAR) criteria, in the period between April 2020 and May 2022. Among this case series, we selected the patients who underwent 18F-FDG-positron emission tomography (PET) because of the persistent increase of acute phase reactants (APR) besides the steroid therapy. Eighty patients were diagnosed with PMR. Nine out of them also presented arthritis of the wrists during the follow-up, whereas none showed signs of cranial GCA at the diagnosis. Seventeen out of eighty subjects (mean age 71.5 ± 7.5 years; M/F 2/15) presented persistent increase of erythrocyte sedimentation rate (mean ESR 44.2 ± 20.8 mm/h) and/or C-reactive protein (mean CRP 25.1 ± 17 mg/l), thus they underwent total body 18F-FDG-PET/CT. Large vessel 18F-FDG uptake indicating an occult GCA was found in 5/17 (29.4%) cases. Twelve out of seventeen (70.6%) patients showed persistence of peri-/articular inflammation, suggesting a scarce control of PMR or the presence of chronic arthritis. Finally, in 2 cases, other inflammatory disorders were found, namely an acute thyroiditis and a hip prosthesis occult infection. 18F-FDG-PET/CT in PMR patients with persistent increase of APR is a useful diagnostic technique in order to detect occult GCA, persistence of active PMR or other misdiagnosed inflammatory diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michele Colaci
- Rheumatology Clinic, Internal Medicine Unit, Azienda Ospedaliera per l’Emergenza (AOE) Cannizzaro, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Jessika Dichiara
- Rheumatology Clinic, Internal Medicine Unit, Azienda Ospedaliera per l’Emergenza (AOE) Cannizzaro, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Maria Letizia Aprile
- Rheumatology Clinic, Internal Medicine Unit, Azienda Ospedaliera per l’Emergenza (AOE) Cannizzaro, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Massimo Ippolito
- Nuclear Medicine Unit, Azienda Ospedaliera per l’Emergenza (AOE) Cannizzaro, Catania, Italy
| | - Claudia Schinocca
- Rheumatology Unit, Policlinico “P. Giaccone”, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Giuliana Guggino
- Rheumatology Unit, Policlinico “P. Giaccone”, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Malatino
- Rheumatology Clinic, Internal Medicine Unit, Azienda Ospedaliera per l’Emergenza (AOE) Cannizzaro, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Gay C, Kihara C, Oakley K, Patel AN, Akinsoto O. Variability of Steroid Response Time in Polymyalgia Rheumatica: A Case Report. Cureus 2022; 14:e31159. [DOI: 10.7759/cureus.31159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
|
9
|
Bolhuis TE, Nizet LE, Owen C, den Broeder AA, van den Ende CH, van der Maas A. Measurement properties of the PolyMyalgia Rheumatica Activity Score (PMR-AS): a systematic literature review. J Rheumatol 2022; 49:627-634. [DOI: 10.3899/jrheum.211292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Objective To perform a COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement Instruments (COSMIN) based Systematic Literature Review of measurement properties of the Polymyalgia Rheumatica Activity Score (PMR-AS). Methods Pubmed, EMBASE, and CINAHL were broadly searched. English full text articles, with (quantitative) data on at least 5 PMR patients using the PMR-AS were selected. Seven hypotheses for construct validity and three for responsiveness, concerning associations with erythrocyte sedimentation rate, physical function, quality of life, clinical disease states, ultrasound, and treatment response, were formulated. Articles usable to assess - COSMIN based - structural validity, internal consistency, reliability, measurement error, or hypotheses on construct validity or responsiveness were selected and assessed based on COSMIN criteria. Results From the 26 articles using the PMR-AS we were able to use 12 articles. Structural validity, internal consistency, construct validity, and responsiveness were assessed in one, two, eight, and three articles respectively. Insufficient evidence was found to confirm structural validity and internal consistency. No data was found on reliability or measurement error. Although 60% and 67% of hypotheses tested for construct validity and responsiveness were confirmed respectively, there was insufficient evidence to meet criteria for good measurement properties. Conclusion Whilst there is some promising evidence for construct validity and responsiveness of the PMR-AS, it is lacking for other properties and overall falls short of criteria for good measurement properties. Therefore, further research is needed to assess its role in clinical research and care.
Collapse
|
10
|
The Role of Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha Antagonists (Anti TNF-α) in Personalized Treatment of Patients with Isolated Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR): Past and Possible Future Scenarios. J Pers Med 2022; 12:jpm12030329. [PMID: 35330329 PMCID: PMC8953282 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12030329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Revised: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Glucocorticoids (GCs) are the cornerstone of polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) therapy, but their long-term use (as is usually necessary in PMR patients) can induce many adverse events. Alternatives have long been sought. The primary aim of our narrative review is to provide an overview about the use of anti-tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) drugs in patients with PMR, and discuss advantages and disadvantages. Materials and methods: we performed a non-systematic literature search (PRISMA protocol not followed) on PubMed and Medline (OVID interface). Results and Conclusions: only two anti TNF-α drugs have been prescribed to PMR patients: infliximab in 62 patients and etanercept in 28 patients. These drugs were normally used in addition to GCs when significant comorbidities and/or relapsing PMR were present; less commonly, they were used as first-line therapy. In general, they have been scarcely successful in patients with PMR. Indeed, randomized controlled trials did not confirm the positive results reported in case reports and/or case series. However, an administration schedule and study design different from those proposed in the past could favour new scenarios in the interest of PMR patients.
Collapse
|
11
|
Marsman DE, den Broeder N, van den Hoogen FHJ, den Broeder AA, van der Maas A. Efficacy of rituximab in patients with polymyalgia rheumatica: a double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled, proof-of-concept trial. THE LANCET RHEUMATOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/s2665-9913(21)00245-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
|
12
|
Floris A, Piga M, Chessa E, Congia M, Erre GL, Angioni MM, Mathieu A, Cauli A. Long-term glucocorticoid treatment and high relapse rate remain unresolved issues in the real-life management of polymyalgia rheumatica: a systematic literature review and meta-analysis. Clin Rheumatol 2021; 41:19-31. [PMID: 34415462 PMCID: PMC8724087 DOI: 10.1007/s10067-021-05819-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2021] [Revised: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 06/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted, according to the PRISMA methodology, to summarize current evidence on the prevalence and predictors of long-term glucocorticoid (GC) treatment and disease relapses in the real-life management of polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR). Out of 5442 retrieved studies, 21 were eligible for meta-analysis and 24 for qualitative analysis. The pooled proportions of patients still taking GCs at 1, 2, and 5 years were respectively 77% (95%CI 71–83%), 51% (95%CI 41–61%), and 25% (95CI% 15–36%). No significant difference was recorded by distinguishing study cohorts recruited before and after the issue of the international recommendations in 2010. The pooled proportion of patients experiencing at least one relapse at 1 year from treatment initiation was 43% (95%CI 29–56%). Female gender, acute-phase reactants levels, peripheral arthritis, starting GCs dosage, and tapering speed were the most frequently investigated potential predictors of prolonged GC treatment and relapse, but with inconsistent results. Only a few studies and with conflicting results evaluated the potential role of early treatment with methotrexate in reducing the GC exposure and the risk of relapse in PMR. This study showed that a high rate of prolonged GC treatment is still recorded in the management of PMR. The relapse rate, even remarkable, can only partially explain the long-term GC treatment, suggesting that other and not yet identified factors may be involved. Additional research is needed to profile patients with a higher risk of long-term GC treatment and relapse and identify more effective steroid-sparing strategies.
Key Points: • High rate of long-term glucocorticoid (GC) treatment is recorded in polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR), being 77%, 51%, and 25% of patients still on GCs after respectively 1, 2, and 5 years. • A pooled relapse rate of 43% at 1 year, even remarkable, can only partially explain the long-term GC treatment in PMR. • Several studies have attempted to identify potential predictors of prolonged treatment with GCs and relapse, but with inconsistent results. • Additional research is needed to profile patients with a higher risk of long-term GC treatment and relapse and identify more effective steroid-sparing strategies. |
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Floris
- Rheumatology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Cagliari, SS554, 09042, Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy. .,Dipartimento Di Scienze Mediche E Sanità Pubblica, Università Di Cagliari, SS554, 09042, Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Matteo Piga
- Rheumatology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Cagliari, SS554, 09042, Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Chessa
- Rheumatology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Cagliari, SS554, 09042, Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Mattia Congia
- Rheumatology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Cagliari, SS554, 09042, Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Gian Luca Erre
- Rheumatology Unit, University of Sassari and AOU University Clinic of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Maria Maddalena Angioni
- Rheumatology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Cagliari, SS554, 09042, Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Alessandro Mathieu
- Rheumatology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Cagliari, SS554, 09042, Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Alberto Cauli
- Rheumatology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Cagliari, SS554, 09042, Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Spiera R, Unizony SH, Bao M, Luder Y, Han J, Pavlov A, Stone JH. Tocilizumab vs placebo for the treatment of giant cell arteritis with polymyalgia rheumatica symptoms, cranial symptoms or both in a randomized trial. Semin Arthritis Rheum 2021; 51:469-476. [PMID: 33784598 DOI: 10.1016/j.semarthrit.2021.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2021] [Revised: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The randomized, placebo (PBO)-controlled GiACTA trial demonstrated the efficacy and safety of tocilizumab (TCZ) in patients with giant cell arteritis (GCA). The present study evaluated the efficacy of TCZ in patients with GCA presenting with polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) symptoms only, cranial symptoms only or both PMR and cranial symptoms in the GiACTA trial. METHODS In GiACTA, 250 patients with GCA received either TCZ weekly or every other week plus a 26-week prednisone taper or PBO plus a 26- or 52-week prednisone taper. This post hoc analysis assessed baseline characteristics, sustained remission rate, number of flares, annualized flare rate, time to flare, cumulative prednisone dose, methotrexate use and safety in patients with PMR symptoms only, cranial symptoms only or both at baseline. RESULTS Overall, 52 patients had PMR symptoms only, 94 had cranial symptoms only and 104 had both symptoms at baseline. At Week 52, rates of sustained remission were significantly higher with TCZ vs PBO in all 3 groups (PMR only, 45.2% vs 19.0%, P = 0.0446; cranial only, 60.3% vs 19.4%, P = 0.0001; PMR and cranial, 55.0% vs 11.4%, P < 0.0001). Smaller proportions of TCZ-treated patients experienced disease flare than PBO-treated patients across all groups (PMR only, 41.9% vs 57.1%; cranial only, 20.7% vs 47.2%; PMR and cranial, 31.7% vs 81.8%). Annualized flare rate and risk of flare were significantly lower with TCZ vs PBO for patients with cranial symptoms only and both symptoms; they were numerically lower, but did not reach statistical significance, in the smaller group of patients with PMR symptoms only. CONCLUSIONS TCZ improved clinical outcomes in patients who presented with PMR symptoms only, cranial symptoms only or both at baseline, suggesting that TCZ is effective in patients with GCA regardless of the presenting clinical phenotype.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robert Spiera
- Hospital for Special Surgery, Department of Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Sebastian H Unizony
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Min Bao
- Genentech, Inc., South San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Yves Luder
- F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jian Han
- Genentech, Inc., South San Francisco, California, USA
| | | | - John H Stone
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Shoulder ultrasound and serum lactate dehydrogenase predict inadequate response to glucocorticoid treatment in patients with polymyalgia rheumatica. Rheumatol Int 2020; 40:1101-1109. [PMID: 32062696 DOI: 10.1007/s00296-020-04512-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2019] [Accepted: 01/04/2020] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
We aimed to identify predictors of inadequate response to glucocorticoid (GC) treatment in patients with polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR). We retrospectively studied 32 patients as a derivation cohort and 24 patients as a validation cohort. The patients were divided into two groups according to the response to GC treatment: GC-responders and GC-inadequate responders (GC-IRs). We compared laboratory data and bilateral shoulder ultrasound findings between the groups. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was performed to determine the optimal cutoff value of candidate predictors of treatment response; the predictors were examined using multivariate logistic analysis. Gray-scale ultrasound findings of long head of the biceps (LHB) tenosynovitis and subacromial/subdeltoid (SAD) bursitis were scored semiquantitatively (0-3). A total gray-scale score (TGSS) was calculated as the sum of the gray-scale scores. In the derivation cohort, serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels and TGSS were significantly higher in GC-IRs than in GC-responders. On ROC analysis, the cutoff values of serum LDH levels ≥ 175 IU/ml and TGSS ≥ 5 were found to be the candidate predictors. Multivariate logistic analysis revealed an independent association of both the predictors with inadequate response to GC treatment. In the validation cohort, patients with one or both predictors exhibited a higher incidence of inadequate response to GC treatment. These findings indicate that the severities of LHB tenosynovitis and SAD bursitis evaluated using ultrasound and serum LDH levels are independent predictors of inadequate response to GC treatment in patients with PMR. Treatment adjustment based on prediction model may allow precise treatment of patients with PMR.
Collapse
|
15
|
Akiyama M, Kaneko Y, Takeuchi T. Tocilizumab in isolated polymyalgia rheumatica: A systematic literature review. Semin Arthritis Rheum 2020; 50:521-525. [PMID: 32107035 DOI: 10.1016/j.semarthrit.2019.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2019] [Revised: 11/23/2019] [Accepted: 12/30/2019] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We investigated the effectiveness of tocilizumab (an anti-interleukin-6 receptor antibody) in patients with polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR). METHODS We performed a systematic literature review from the inception dates until August 7, 2019 for articles reporting tocilizumab administration to treat isolated PMR. RESULTS We identified 59 patients with isolated PMR treated with tocilizumab. All studies used intravenously administered tocilizumab at a dose of 8 mg/kg monthly. Tocilizumab monotherapy was administered to 24 and combination therapy (tocilizumab + glucocorticoid) to 35 patients. Tocilizumab monotherapy achieved low disease activity scores in only 17% of patients at week 4 and in only 71% patients even at week 12. Compared to glucocorticoid monotherapy, the reduction in the cumulative glucocorticoid dose was between 58% and 70% using a combination of tocilizumab and glucocorticoids, and 33-100% of the patients eventually showed glucocorticoid-free remission. All relapses occurred in patients administered tocilizumab monotherapy. No new safety event was reported. CONCLUSION Tocilizumab is effective in cases of isolated PMR, particularly in combination with glucocorticoids. In addition to its glucocorticoid-sparing effect, it achieves glucocorticoid-free remission and reduces relapse rates. Tocilizumab monotherapy is not recommended.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mitsuhiro Akiyama
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan.
| | - Yuko Kaneko
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan.
| | - Tsutomu Takeuchi
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Toussirot E, Govindaraju S, Mekinian A. Tocilizumab failure in malignancy-related polymyalgia rheumatica. Joint Bone Spine 2019; 87:366-368. [PMID: 31838039 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbspin.2019.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2019] [Accepted: 12/05/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Eric Toussirot
- Inserm CIC-1431, Centre d'Investigation Clinique Biothérapie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Besançon, 25000 Besançon, France; Fédération Hospitalo-Universitaire INCREASE, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Besançon, 25000 Besançon, France; Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Besançon, Service de Rhumatologie, 25000 Besançon, France; Département Universitaire de Thérapeutique, Université de Franche Comté, 25000 Besançon, France; Inserm U1098, Etablissement Français du Sang Bourgogne Franche Comté, Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté, Interactions Hôte-Greffon-Tumeurs et ingénierie cellulaire et génique, 25000 Besançon, France.
| | | | - Arsène Mekinian
- AP-HP Hôpital St Antoine, Service de Médecine Interne et Inflammation (DHUi2B), Sorbonne Université, 75012 Paris, France
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Chino K, Kondo T, Sakai R, Saito S, Okada Y, Shibata A, Kurasawa T, Okuyama A, Takei H, Amano K. Tocilizumab monotherapy for polymyalgia rheumatica: A prospective, single‐center, open‐label study. Int J Rheum Dis 2019; 22:2151-2157. [DOI: 10.1111/1756-185x.13723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2019] [Revised: 09/19/2019] [Accepted: 09/20/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kentaro Chino
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology Saitama Medical Center Saitama Medical University Saitama Japan
| | - Tsuneo Kondo
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology Saitama Medical Center Saitama Medical University Saitama Japan
| | - Ryota Sakai
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology Saitama Medical Center Saitama Medical University Saitama Japan
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology Keio University School of Medicine Tokyo Japan
| | - Shuntaro Saito
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology Saitama Medical Center Saitama Medical University Saitama Japan
- Division of Rheumatology Department of Internal Medicine Keio University School of Medicine Tokyo Japan
| | - Yusuke Okada
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology Saitama Medical Center Saitama Medical University Saitama Japan
| | - Akiko Shibata
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology Saitama Medical Center Saitama Medical University Saitama Japan
| | - Takahiko Kurasawa
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology Saitama Medical Center Saitama Medical University Saitama Japan
| | - Ayumi Okuyama
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology Saitama Medical Center Saitama Medical University Saitama Japan
| | - Hirofumi Takei
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology Saitama Medical Center Saitama Medical University Saitama Japan
| | - Koichi Amano
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology Saitama Medical Center Saitama Medical University Saitama Japan
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Treatment of polymyalgia rheumatica. Biochem Pharmacol 2019; 165:221-229. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2019.03.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2019] [Accepted: 03/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
|
19
|
Polymyalgia Rheumatica. Pain 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-99124-5_261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
|
20
|
Kermani TA, Dasgupta B. Current and emerging therapies in large-vessel vasculitis. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2018; 57:1513-1524. [PMID: 29069518 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/kex385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
GCA shares many clinical features with PMR and Takayasu arteritis. The current mainstay of therapy for all three conditions is glucocorticoid therapy. Given the chronic, relapsing nature of these conditions and the morbidity associated with glucocorticoid therapy, there is a need for better treatment options to induce and sustain remission with fewer adverse effects. Conventional immunosuppressive treatments have been studied and have a modest effect. There is a keen interest in biologic therapies with studies showing the efficacy of IL-6 antagonists in PMR and GCA. Recently the first two randomized clinical trials in Takayasu arteritis have been completed. A major challenge for all of these conditions is the lack of standardized measures to assess disease activity. Long-term studies are needed to evaluate the impact of biologic therapies showing potential on important clinical outcomes such as vascular damage, cost-effectiveness and quality of life. The optimal duration of treatment also needs to be assessed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tanaz A Kermani
- Division of Rheumatology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Bhaskar Dasgupta
- Department of Rheumatology, Southend University Hospital & Anglia Ruskin University, Westcliff-on-sea, UK
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
González-Gay MA, Pina T, Prieto-Peña D, Calderon-Goercke M, Blanco R, Castañeda S. Drug therapies for polymyalgia rheumatica: a pharmacotherapeutic update. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2018; 19:1235-1244. [DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2018.1501360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Miguel A. González-Gay
- Division of Rheumatology and Epidemiology, Genetics and Atherosclerosis Research Group on Systemic Inflammatory Diseases, Hospital Universitario Marqués de Valdecilla, IDIVAL, Santander, Spain
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Cantabria, Santander, Spain
- Cardiovascular Pathophysiology and Genomics Research Unit, School of Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Trinitario Pina
- Division of Rheumatology and Epidemiology, Genetics and Atherosclerosis Research Group on Systemic Inflammatory Diseases, Hospital Universitario Marqués de Valdecilla, IDIVAL, Santander, Spain
| | - Diana Prieto-Peña
- Division of Rheumatology and Epidemiology, Genetics and Atherosclerosis Research Group on Systemic Inflammatory Diseases, Hospital Universitario Marqués de Valdecilla, IDIVAL, Santander, Spain
| | - Mónica Calderon-Goercke
- Division of Rheumatology and Epidemiology, Genetics and Atherosclerosis Research Group on Systemic Inflammatory Diseases, Hospital Universitario Marqués de Valdecilla, IDIVAL, Santander, Spain
| | - Ricardo Blanco
- Division of Rheumatology and Epidemiology, Genetics and Atherosclerosis Research Group on Systemic Inflammatory Diseases, Hospital Universitario Marqués de Valdecilla, IDIVAL, Santander, Spain
| | - Santos Castañeda
- Rheumatology Division, Hospital de La Princesa, IIS-Princesa, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM), Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Teixeira M, Greenlund LS. 76-Year-Old Man With New Bilateral Shoulder Pain. Mayo Clin Proc 2018; 93:950-954. [PMID: 29685456 DOI: 10.1016/j.mayocp.2017.09.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2017] [Revised: 09/15/2017] [Accepted: 09/18/2017] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Miguel Teixeira
- Resident in Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic School of Graduate Medical Education, Rochester, MN
| | - Laura S Greenlund
- Advisor to resident and Consultant in Primary Care Internal Medicine, Rochester, MN
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Schett G. Physiological effects of modulating the interleukin-6 axis. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2018; 57:ii43-ii50. [DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/kex513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Georg Schett
- Department of Internal Medicine 3 – Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Charpentier A, Verhoeven F, Sondag M, Guillot X, Prati C, Wendling D. Therapeutic response to prednisone in relation to age in polymyalgia rheumatica: a comparison study. Clin Rheumatol 2018; 37:819-823. [PMID: 29380162 DOI: 10.1007/s10067-018-3988-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2017] [Revised: 01/08/2018] [Accepted: 01/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of age on the therapeutic response to prednisone. This was a retrospective, monocentric study. We included patients diagnosed with PMR, according to ACR 2012 criteria. Patients were classified into two groups according to age (above or below 60 years old). We registered demographic, clinical, biological, imaging data, and therapeutic response profile. Local inflammation was evaluated at baseline with PET/CT imaging score. The treatment was standardised. The main endpoint was a corticosteroid dependence defined by the recurrence of PMR symptoms and/or the increase of CRP at two times. We included 14 patients younger than 60 years old (mean age 54 ± 0.8) and 28 patients older than 60 (mean age 75.8 ± 1.5). The "young PMR" group was mainly male (60 vs 27%; p < 0.05). Both groups were similar regarding morning stiffness, disease duration, WBC count, and CRP. The intensity of FDG uptake was lower (score of 16.9 ± 1.7 vs 26.5 ± 3.0; p < 0.05), there were more dependence on corticosteroids (60 vs 20%; p < 0.05) and methotrexate was more necessary (35 vs 6.5%; p < 0.05) in "young PMR" group. Young patients diagnosed with PMR are mostly men, are more dependent on corticosteroids, and have a lower PET-CT score at baseline in comparison to elderly patients diagnosed with PMR.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aline Charpentier
- Service de Rhumatologie, CHRU Besancon, 2 Boulevard Fleming, F-25030, Besançon, France
| | - Frank Verhoeven
- Service de Rhumatologie, CHRU Besancon, 2 Boulevard Fleming, F-25030, Besançon, France.
- EA 4267 PEPITE, Université de Bourgogne - Franche Comté, Besançon, France.
| | - Maxime Sondag
- Service de Rhumatologie, CHRU Besancon, 2 Boulevard Fleming, F-25030, Besançon, France
| | - Xavier Guillot
- Service de Rhumatologie, CHRU Besancon, 2 Boulevard Fleming, F-25030, Besançon, France
- EA 4267 PEPITE, Université de Bourgogne - Franche Comté, Besançon, France
| | - Clément Prati
- Service de Rhumatologie, CHRU Besancon, 2 Boulevard Fleming, F-25030, Besançon, France
- EA 4267 PEPITE, Université de Bourgogne - Franche Comté, Besançon, France
| | - Daniel Wendling
- Service de Rhumatologie, CHRU Besancon, 2 Boulevard Fleming, F-25030, Besançon, France
- EA 4266 "Agent pathogène et inflammation / EPILAB", Université de Bourgogne - Franche Comté, Besançon, France
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
González-Gay MA, Matteson EL, Castañeda S. Polymyalgia rheumatica. Lancet 2017; 390:1700-1712. [PMID: 28774422 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(17)31825-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 155] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2017] [Revised: 06/09/2017] [Accepted: 06/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Polymyalgia rheumatica is an inflammatory disease that affects the shoulder, the pelvic girdles, and the neck, usually in individuals older than 50 years. Increases in acute phase reactants are typical of polymyalgia rheumatica. The disorder might present as an isolated condition or in association with giant cell arteritis. Several diseases, including inflammatory rheumatic and autoimmune diseases, infections, and malignancies can mimic polymyalgia rheumatica. Imaging techniques have identified the presence of bursitis in more than half of patients with active disease. Vascular uptake on PET scans is seen in some patients. A dose of 12·5-25·0 mg prednisolone daily or equivalent leads to rapid improvement of symptoms in most patients with isolated disease. However, relapses are common when prednisolone is tapered. Methotrexate might be used in patients who relapse. The effectiveness of biological therapies, such as anti-interleukin 6, in patients with polymyalgia rheumatica that is refractory to glucocorticoids requires further investigation. Most population-based studies indicate that mortality is not increased in patients with isolated disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Miguel A González-Gay
- Division of Rheumatology and Epidemiology, Genetics and Atherosclerosis Research Group on Systemic Inflammatory Diseases, Hospital Universitario Marqués de Valdecilla, Instituto de Investigación Marqués de Valdecilla, University of Cantabria, Santander, Spain; Cardiovascular Pathophysiology and Genomics Research Unit, School of Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.
| | - Eric L Matteson
- Division of Rheumatology and Division of Epidemiology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Santos Castañeda
- Rheumatology Division, Hospital de La Princesa, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria-Princesa, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Lally L, Forbess L, Hatzis C, Spiera R. Brief Report: A Prospective Open-Label Phase IIa Trial of Tocilizumab in the Treatment of Polymyalgia Rheumatica. Arthritis Rheumatol 2017; 68:2550-4. [PMID: 27159185 DOI: 10.1002/art.39740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2016] [Accepted: 05/03/2016] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is a pivotal cytokine in the pathogenesis of polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR), yet the efficacy of IL-6 blockade with tocilizumab (TCZ) for the treatment of PMR is unknown. The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy and safety of TCZ in newly diagnosed PMR. METHODS In a single-center open-label study, patients with newly diagnosed PMR who had been treated with glucocorticoids (GCs) for <1 month were treated monthly with intravenous (IV) TCZ 8 mg/kg for 1 year, with a rapid tapering of GCs according to standardized protocol. The primary end point was the proportion of patients in relapse-free remission without GC treatment at 6 months. Secondary outcome measures included duration of GC use and cumulative GC dose. Patients were followed up for 15 months. RESULTS Ten patients were enrolled in the study. One patient withdrew after 2 months, leaving 9 patients in whom the primary end point was assessed. The primary end point of relapse-free remission without GC treatment at 6 months was achieved by all 9 of these patients. All patients who received TCZ treatment were able to discontinue GCs within 4 months of study entry. The cumulative mean ± SD prednisone dose was 1,085 ± 301 mg and the total duration of GC exposure was 3.9 ± 0.9 months. Remission persisted without relapse, in all 9 patients, throughout the entire 15-month study. CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that TCZ may be an effective, safe, and well-tolerated treatment for newly diagnosed patients with PMR, with a robust steroid-sparing effect.
Collapse
|
27
|
Abstract
Imaging methods, such as joint and color duplex sonography, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and positron emission tomography (PET) nowadays facilitate the diagnosis of polymyalgia rheumatica and large vessel vasculitides and have now been included in the new classification criteria. In patients with typical symptoms, color duplex sonography of the temporal artery can replace a biopsy of the temporal artery for the diagnosis of giant cell arteritis (GCA); however, the role of these methods for patient follow-up and assessment of prognosis is unclear. Polymyalgia rheumatica is treated with glucocorticoids (GC) in an initial dosage of up to 20 mg per day. In patients with large vessel vasculitis higher doses are needed for induction of remission. Furthermore, the rate of relapse and GC-related adverse events are higher in GCA and Takayasu arteritis (TA). Thus, initial GC-sparing treatment with methotrexate or other immunosuppressants is recommended. Recent study data show an effectiveness of biologics. Recent data of the first placebo-controlled proof of concept trials showed that the interleukin-6 antagonist tocilizumab reduces GC requirements and relapse rates in patients with GCA and polymyalgia rheumatica. Both ustekinumab, a monocalonal antibody against interleukin-12/23p40 and the CTLA-4 immunoglobulin abatacept appeared to be effective in recent pilot trials for GCA. Antibodies against tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF alpha) were ineffective for polymyalgia rheumatica and GCA in placebo-controlled trials but data from open label studies suggested some efficacy in refractory TA.
Collapse
|
28
|
Toussirot É, Régent A, Devauchelle-Pensec V, Saraux A, Puéchal X. Interleukin-6: a promising target for the treatment of polymyalgia rheumatica or giant cell arteritis? RMD Open 2016; 2:e000305. [PMID: 27738520 PMCID: PMC5013443 DOI: 10.1136/rmdopen-2016-000305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2016] [Accepted: 08/11/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Éric Toussirot
- Clinical Investigation Centre Biotherapy INSERM CIC-1431, University Hospital of Besançon, Besançon, France; Fédération Hospitalo-Universitaire INCREASE, University Hospital of Besançon, Besançon, France; Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital of Besançon, Besançon, France; Department of Therapeutics and UPRES EA 4266 « Agents Pathogènes et Inflammation», University of Bourgogne Franche-Comté, Besançon, France
| | - Alexis Régent
- Paris-Descartes University, Paris, France; Department of Internal Medicine, Centre de référence maladies auto-immunes et systémiques rares, Hôpital Cochin, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | | | - Alain Saraux
- Department of Rheumatology , University Hospital of Brest , Brest , France
| | - Xavier Puéchal
- Department of Internal Medicine , Centre de référence maladies auto-immunes et systémiques rares, Hôpital Cochin, AP-HP , Paris , France
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
TOUSSIROT ÉRIC, MARTIN ANTOINE, SOUBRIER MARTIN, REDEKER SERGE, RÉGENT ALEXIS. Rapid and Sustained Response to Tocilizumab in Patients with Polymyalgia Rheumatica Resistant or Intolerant to Glucocorticoids: A Multicenter Open-label Study. J Rheumatol 2016; 43:249-50. [DOI: 10.3899/jrheum.150599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
|
30
|
Izumi K, Kuda H, Ushikubo M, Kuwana M, Takeuchi T, Oshima H. Tocilizumab is effective against polymyalgia rheumatica: experience in 13 intractable cases. RMD Open 2015; 1:e000162. [PMID: 26635968 PMCID: PMC4663453 DOI: 10.1136/rmdopen-2015-000162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2015] [Revised: 10/22/2015] [Accepted: 11/01/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) affects older people, and although glucocorticoids are effective in treating PMR, they frequently result in side effects. Therefore, we conducted a retrospective study to assess the effectiveness and safety of tocilizumab as an alternative to glucocorticoids. We included 13 consecutive patients with PMR (11 women and 2 men; median age, 74 years) diagnosed according to Bird's criteria and the 2012 European League Against Rheumatism/American College of Rheumatology provisional classification criteria. All patients received tocilizumab infusion (8 mg/kg every 4 weeks) at our institutions, between 2008 and 2014, because of PMR relapses (n=12) or insufficient response to initial prednisolone treatment (n=1), without increasing prednisolone dosage. Seven patients were on methotrexate, and all had one or more glucocorticoid-related comorbidities. Administration of tocilizumab significantly improved inflammation and PMR symptoms such as morning stiffness, as well as the Patient-Pain and Patient-Global Assessment visual analogue scales (p<0.05). Proximal muscle pain disappeared within 8 weeks, on average, and the Health Assessment Questionnaire-Disability Index scores (p=0.098) and concomitant prednisolone doses (p<0.05) decreased at 12 weeks. Severe adverse events were not observed during the mean tocilizumab treatment period of 43.4 weeks. Our findings suggest that tocilizumab is effective and safe for PMR treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Keisuke Izumi
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine , Keio University School of Medicine , Tokyo , Japan ; Department of Connective Tissue Diseases , National Tokyo Medical Center , Tokyo , Japan
| | - Harumi Kuda
- Department of Connective Tissue Diseases , National Tokyo Medical Center , Tokyo , Japan
| | - Mari Ushikubo
- Department of Connective Tissue Diseases , National Tokyo Medical Center , Tokyo , Japan
| | - Masataka Kuwana
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine , Keio University School of Medicine , Tokyo , Japan ; Department of Allergy and Rheumatology , Nippon Medical School , Tokyo , Japan
| | - Tsutomu Takeuchi
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine , Keio University School of Medicine , Tokyo , Japan
| | - Hisaji Oshima
- Department of Connective Tissue Diseases , National Tokyo Medical Center , Tokyo , Japan
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
González-Gay MA, Llorca J. Best practices and uncertainties in the management of PMR. Nat Rev Rheumatol 2015; 12:3-4. [DOI: 10.1038/nrrheum.2015.142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
|
32
|
Nishioka K, Tanaka T. [Rheumatology: Progress in Diagnosis and Treatments. Topics: III. Rheumatoid Arthritis and Allied Conditions; 2. Allied Conditions. 2) Polymyalgia rheumatica]. NIHON NAIKA GAKKAI ZASSHI. THE JOURNAL OF THE JAPANESE SOCIETY OF INTERNAL MEDICINE 2014; 103:2440-8. [PMID: 27514192 DOI: 10.2169/naika.103.2440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
|