Gastrointestinal manifestations of scleroderma: recent progress in evaluation, pathogenesis, and management

Helicobacter pylori in gastrointestinal manifestation of systemic sclerosis

Aim

To study the prevalence of Helicobacter pylori in systemic sclerosis patients and its gastrointestinal manifestations in comparison with Helicobacter pylori-negative systemic sclerosis patients. Systemic sclerosis gastrointestinal outcome post Helicobacter pylori eradication was evaluated.

Method

In total, 70 systemic sclerosis patients and 70 age-, gender- and race-matched healthy controls had their urea breath test done. Gastrointestinal manifestations in systemic sclerosis were assessed using University of California at Los Angeles 2.0 and Leeds Dyspepsia Questionnaire questionnaires. Systemic sclerosis patients with confirmed Helicobacter pylori infection were given standard Helicobacter pylori eradication therapy. Urea breath test was repeated 6 weeks posteradication therapy with their gastrointestinal symptoms reassessed.

Results

The prevalence of Helicobacter pylori was low in both systemic sclerosis patients (10%) and healthy controls (2.9%). There was no significant difference in gastrointestinal symptoms between Helicobacter pylori-positive and Helicobacter pylori-negative systemic sclerosis patients. However, the Helicobacter pylori-positive patients reported higher median severity scores for the gastrointestinal symptoms of reflux (0.5 vs 0.35), abdominal distension (1.5 vs 0.75) and social functioning impairment score (0.5 vs 0.16) using the University of California at Los Angeles 2.0 score. The Helicobacter pylori-positive patients also indicated increased upper abdominal pain (3.0 vs 0.0), regurgitation (2.0 vs 0.0) and burping (3.0 vs 0.0), observed from the Leeds Dyspepsia Questionnaire scores. Gastrointestinal outcomes post-Helicobacter pylori eradication showed either an improvement or complete resolution of symptoms.

Conclusion

Gastrointestinal symptoms in systemic sclerosis patients are unlikely to be caused by Helicobacter pylori in the recent years in our cohort of patients. No significant difference in gastrointestinal symptoms was seen between Helicobacter pylori-positive and Helicobacter pylori-negative systemic sclerosis patients. Helicobacter pylori can be readily tested by urea breath test to look for present infection.

Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) and Twelve Groups of Related Diseases-Current State of Knowledge

The human gut microbiota creates a complex microbial ecosystem, characterized by its high population density, wide diversity, and complex interactions. Any imbalance of the intestinal microbiome, whether qualitative or quantitative, may have serious consequences for human health, including small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO). SIBO is defined as an increase in the number of bacteria (103-105 CFU/mL), an alteration in the bacterial composition, or both in the small intestine. The PubMed, Science Direct, Web of Science, EMBASE, and Medline databases were searched for studies on SIBO and related diseases. These diseases were divided into 12 groups: (1) gastrointestinal disorders; (2) autoimmune disease; (3) cardiovascular system disease; (4) metabolic disease; (5) endocrine disorders; (6) nephrological disorders; (7) dermatological diseases; (8) neurological diseases (9); developmental disorders; (10) mental disorders; (11) genetic diseases; and (12) gastrointestinal cancer. The purpose of this comprehensive review is to present the current state of knowledge on the relationships between SIBO and these 12 disease groups, taking into account risk factors and the causal context. This review fills the evidence gap on SIBO and presents a biological-medical approach to the problem, clearly showing the groups and diseases having a proven relationship with SIBO, as well as indicating groups within which research should continue to be expanded.

Gastric dysrhythmias in patients with early systemic sclerosis: a cross-sectional study

Objectives

Gastric involvement in patients with early systemic sclerosis (SSc) has not been previously investigated. We aim to evaluate the association of gastric dysrhythmias with gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms and nailfold video capillaroscopy (NVC).

Methods

Cross-sectional study. Patients with early SSc, completed the UCLA GIT 2.0 questionnaire, performed an NVC, and a surface Electrogastrography (EGG). Descriptive statistics was used for demographic and clinical characteristics and Fisher and Kendall Tau tests were used for association analysis.

Results

75 patients were screened, 30 patients were consecutively enrolled, 29 performed the EGG and 1 patient had a non-interpretable NVC. 29/30 were female with a mean age of 48.7 years (25-72). The mean disease duration from the first non-RP symptom was 22.6 +/-10.8 months and most of the patients had limited disease (76.6%). Total GIT 2.0 score symptoms were moderate-severe in 63% of the participants and 28/29 had an abnormal EGG. Bradygastria was the most common pattern present in 70% of the participants. NVC patterns: 17% early, 34% active, 28% scleroderma-like, 14% non-specific, and 2 patients had a normal NVC. There was no association between severe GI symptoms or NVC patterns and severely abnormal EGG, but the presence of bradygastria was associated with severe impairment in the social functioning area (p 0.018).

Conclusions

Gastric dysmotility is common in early SSc and there is a lack of correlation between GI symptoms and NVC scleroderma patterns. EGG is a sensitive, cheap, and non-invasive exam, that may be an alternative to early diagnosis of GI involvement.

Research progress on mesenchymal stem cells and their exosomes in systemic sclerosis

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a connective tissue disease with an unknown etiology. Clinically, it is characterized by localized or diffuse skin thickening and fibrosis. The pathogenesis of SSc includes microvascular injury, autoimmune-mediated inflammation, and fibroblast activation. These processes interact and contribute to the diverse clinicopathology and presentation of SSc. Given the limited effectiveness and substantial side effects of traditional treatments, the treatment strategy for SSc has several disadvantages. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are expected to serve as effective treatment options owing to their significant immunomodulatory, antifibrotic, and pro-angiogenic effects. Exosomes, secreted by MSCs via paracrine signaling, mirror the effect of MSCs as well as offer the benefit of targeted delivery, minimal immunogenicity, robust reparability, good safety and stability, and easy storage and transport. This enables them to circumvent the limitations of the MSCs. When using exosomes, it is crucial to consider preparation methods, quality standards, and suitable drug delivery systems, among other technical issues. Therefore, this review aims to summarize the latest research progress on MSCs and exosomes in SSc, offering novel ideas for treating SSc.

Assessment of muscle mass using chest computed tomography-based quantitative and qualitative measurements in patients with systemic sclerosis: A retrospective study with cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses

BACKGROUND/ PURPOSE

Sarcopenia has been increasingly studied in systemic sclerosis (SSc), which is one of the most lethal autoimmune diseases, mainly due to lung involvement. Our objective was to study the associations of myopenia and/or myosteatosis with clinical features of SSc and subsequent adverse outcomes.

METHODS

This is a retrospective study with cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses, in which patients with SSc were consecutively included in the outpatient clinic of a tertiary university hospital between 2012 and 2021. Clinical and laboratory parameters of patients with SSc were collected from their medical records. Skeletal muscle mass was assessed on chest computed tomography (CT) at the level of the first lumbar vertebra (L1) by skeletal muscle area (SMA), skeletal muscle index ([SMI] SMA/height²), and skeletal muscle radiation attenuation (SMRA). Cut-off values for myopenia in women and men were SMA <70.1 cm² and <110.4 cm², and SMI <25.9 cm²/m² and <34.6 cm²/m², respectively; values for myosteatosis in women and men were SMRA <29.8 HU and <36.3 HU, respectively. In a subgroup of 31 patients followed-up between 2017 and 2019, the diagnostic properties of SMA, SMI, and SMRA by CT were compared with the appendicular skeletal muscle mass index (ASMI) by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). Low muscle quantity was defined according to the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People 2: ASMI <5.5 kg/m² in women and <7.0 kg/m² in men. Afterwards, a better tomographic index was used for correlating with clinical and laboratory parameters.

RESULTS

Myopenia and/or myosteatosis were present in 75.7 % of patients with SSc. The prevalence rates according to each index were SMA 25.2%, SMI 12.1%, and SMRA 69.2%. In 73% of the patients with overweight/obesity (body mass index [BMI] ≥25 kg/m²), only SMRA was reduced. Considering ASMI as the gold standard, the sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values for SMA were 60%, 96.2%, 75% and 92.6%, respectively; for SMI, they were 40%, 96.2%, 66.7%, and 89.3%, respectively; for SMRA, these values were 60%, 34.6%, 15%, and 81.8%. Pearson's correlation coefficients were 0.73, 0.74, and 0.10 for SMA, SMI, and SMRA, respectively, and ASMI significantly agreed with SMA (kappa 0.611, p < 0.001) and SMI (kappa 0.431, p = 0.012). After adjustments in a multivariate model, BMI (p < 0.001) and female sex (p < 0.001) remained significantly associated with myopenia by SMA; BMI (p =0.010) remained significantly associated with low muscle mass by ASMI.

CONCLUSION

The SMA index at L1 level on chest CT was demonstrated to be an accurate measure that is useful for detecting myopenia in patients with SSc. BMI and male sex predicted low SMA and BMI was associated with low ASMI on DXA.

STATEMENT OF CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

In recent years, great advances have been made in sarcopenia-related research, resulting in broader knowledge on its definition, causes, diagnosis, and treatment options. Regarding the techniques used for assessing muscle composition, computed tomography (CT) was demonstrated by many studies to be an efficient and easy-to-use method that can be employed by professionals of different specialties, including rheumatologists. This study was able to demonstrate that although the L3 image was not present on CT, the analysis of SMA at the L1 level on chest CT proved to be an accurate and useful measure to detect myopenia in patients with SSc. This study identified some associated factors of myopenia and/or myosteatosis according to each method employed for assessing muscle composition. Reduced BMI and male sex were associated factors of myopenia when using SMA, and reduced BMI was associated with myopenia when employing ASMI by DXA. Finally, we highlight the need not to generalize the term "sarcopenia" in clinical studies assessing imaging parameters of body composition. The use of the terms myopenia and/or myosteatosis would be more adequate, because CT allows the assessment of muscle composition and not strength or physical performance.

High prevalence and risk factors for osteoporosis in 1839 patients with systemic sclerosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

Osteoporosis is prevalent in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc). Updated evidence is required to complement the previous systematic review on this topic to provide best practices. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to quantitatively synthesize data from studies concerning the prevalence and risk factors for osteoporosis among patients with SSc.

METHODS

We searched PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and ScienceDirect databases for potential studies published from inception to May 31, 2022. Eligibility screening, data extraction, and quality assessment of the retrieved articles were conducted independently by two reviewers. Then meta-analyses were performed to determine osteoporosis prevalence and risk factors in patients with SSc. Meta-regression analysis was conducted to explore the sources of heterogeneity.

RESULTS

The pooled prevalence of osteoporosis in patients with SSc was 27% (95% CI, 24-31), with moderate heterogeneity (I² = 61.6%). Meta-regression revealed no significant difference among all variables. And the presence of SSc increased the likelihood of having osteoporosis (OR = 3.05, 95% CI, 2.32-4.01) compared to controls. These significant risk factors for osteoporosis in SSc patients were age > 50 years (OR = 2.94, 95% CI, 1.52-5.68), menopause (OR = 3.90; 95% CI, 1.94-7.84), aging (MD = 8.40; 95% CI,6.10-10.71) and longer disease duration (MD = 4.78; 95% CI,1.83-7.73). However, female (OR = 1.45; 95% CI, 0.75-2.77), pulmonary arterial hypertension (OR = 0.50; 95% CI, 0.17-1.54), and diffuse cutaneous SSc (OR = 1.05; 95% CI, 0.75-1.48) were not significant risk factors for osteoporosis in SSc patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Osteoporosis was highly prevalent in patients with SSc, and the prevalence seemed to be high and similar in many countries. The age > 50 years, menopause, aging, and longer disease duration were identified as risk factors for osteoporosis in patients with SSc.

Association between Gut Dysbiosis and the Occurrence of SIBO, LIBO, SIFO and IMO

Gut microbiota is the aggregate of all microorganisms in the human digestive system. There are 1014 CFU/mL of such microorganisms in the human body, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, archaea and protozoa. The Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes bacteria phyla comprise 90% of the human gut microbiota. The microbiota support the healthy functioning of the human body by helping with digestion (mainly via short-chain fatty acids and amino acids) and producing short-chain fatty acids. In addition, it exhibits many physiological functions, such as forming the intestinal epithelium, intestinal integrity maintenance, the production of vitamins, and protection against pathogens. An altered composition or the number of microorganisms, known as dysbiosis, disrupts the body's homeostasis and can lead to the development of inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome, and metabolic diseases such as diabetes, obesity and allergies. Several types of disruptions to the gut microbiota have been identified: SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth), LIBO (Large Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth), SIFO (Small Intestinal Fungal Overgrowth), and IMO (Intestinal Methanogen Overgrowth). General gastrointestinal problems such as abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhoea and constipation are the main symptoms of dysbiosis. They lead to malabsorption, nutrient deficiencies, anaemia and hypoproteinaemia. Increased lipopolysaccharide (LPS) permeability, stimulating the inflammatory response and resulting in chronic inflammation, has been identified as the leading cause of microbial overgrowth in the gut. The subject literature is extensive but of limited quality. Despite the recent interest in the gut microbiome and its disorders, more clinical research is needed to determine the pathophysiology, effective treatments, and prevention of small and large intestinal microbiota overgrowth. This review was designed to provide an overview of the available literature on intestinal microbial dysbiosis (SIBO, LIBO, SIFO and IMO) and to determine whether it represents a real threat to human health.

Show Me What You Have Inside-The Complex Interplay between SIBO and Multiple Medical Conditions-A Systematic Review

The microbiota, as a complex of microorganisms in a particular ecosystem, is part of the wider term-microbiome, which is defined as the set of all genetic content in the microbial community. Imbalanced gut microbiota has a great impact on the homeostasis of the organism. Dysbiosis, as a disturbance in bacterial balance, might trigger or exacerbate the course of different pathologies. Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is a disorder characterized by differences in quantity, quality, and location of the small intestine microbiota. SIBO underlies symptoms associated with functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGD) as well as may alter the presentation of chronic diseases such as heart failure, diabetes, etc. In recent years there has been growing interest in the influence of SIBO and its impact on the whole human body as well as individual systems. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the co-existence of SIBO with different medical conditions. The PubMed database was searched up to July 2022 and we found 580 original studies; inclusion and exclusion criteria let us identify 112 eligible articles, which are quoted in this paper. The present SIBO diagnostic methods could be divided into two groups-invasive, the gold standard-small intestine aspirate culture, and non-invasive, breath tests (BT). Over the years scientists have explored SIBO and its associations with other diseases. Its role has been confirmed not only in gastroenterology but also in cardiology, endocrinology, neurology, rheumatology, and nephrology. Antibiotic therapy could reduce SIBO occurrence resulting not only in the relief of FGD symptoms but also manifestations of comorbid diseases. Although more research is needed, the link between SIBO and other diseases is an important pathway for scientists to follow.

Gastrointestinal involvement in systemic sclerosis: An updated review

The gastrointestinal tract (GI) is the second most affected organ system in individuals suffering from systemic/localized scleroderma (SSc) or localized scleroderma. SSc can affect any part of the GI, between the oral cavity and anorectum. The annual incidence of SSc in the United States is estimated to be 19.3 cases per million adults, with the highest incidence reported in people aged 44 to 55. Females are 5 times more likely than males to suffer from SSc. Morbidity and mortality rates associated with SSc are predominantly elevated among patients with GI manifestations. Esophageal and intestinal manifestations impact 90% and 40% to 70% of patients with systemic scleroderma, respectively. SSc patients are known to suffer from small bowel hypomotility and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, which cause malabsorption and malnutrition, ultimately contributing to the 50% mortality rate. Fecal incontinence is a common symptom of SSc that can lead to depression. SSc patients may suffer from gastrointestinal complications that can negatively impact their quality of life on a daily basis. Multidisciplinary approaches are necessary for systematically managing gastrointestinal complications associated with SSc. A prospective study should focus on developing targeted therapies to improve recovery patterns and prognosis in cases of SSc. This article summarizes the epidemiology, commonly reported clinical manifestations, complications, and available treatments for treating GI pathology in SSc patients.

Treatment of Severe Swallowing Dysfunction in Systemic Sclerosis with IVIG: Role of Antimuscarinic Antibodies

Oropharyngeal and esophageal dysmotility can cause serious clinical complications such as aspiration pneumonia, cachexia, and sarcopenia, with a resulting increase in mortality and disability. The current standard of care for the treatment of SSc-associated swallowing dysfunction is mainly supportive, although severe cases are usually refractory to conventional management. Recent studies have shown that the abnormal production of functional autoantibodies such as anti-cholinergic muscarinic receptor III antibodies may participate in the pathogenesis of SSc-associated gastrointestinal dysmotility and may provide a novel target for therapeutic intervention. We describe two patients with severe and rapid onset of SSc-associated severe swallowing dysfunction and esophageal dysmotility who had failed standard of care therapy, requiring complete enteral and parenteral nutrition. Both patients were positive for the presence of circulating antimuscarinic III receptor antibodies. They were treated with IVIG at a dose of 2 g/Kg/month divided in two consecutive days, for six months. Following IVIG therapy, both patients markedly improved their symptoms as shown by a reduction in their UCLA2.0 score, and achieved an improvement of esophageal motility documented radiologically. Both patients resumed oral feeding and had their feeding tubes removed within the treatment period. None of the patients developed severe adverse events attributable to IVIG, except for low-grade fever during IVIG infusion in one of the cases. These results provide support for the role of functional autoantibodies in the development of SSc-associated gastrointestinal dysfunction.

Epidemiology and Treatment of Systemic Sclerosis in Korea

Systemic sclerosis (SSc), a rare, chronic progressive systemic autoimmune disease of unknown etiology, is characterized by autoimmunity, tissue fibrosis, and obliterative vasculopathy. SSc can affect all major organs including the skin, blood vessels, lung, heart, kidneys, and gastrointestinal tract. Our understanding of its pathogenesis has increased over the past few decades, leading to improved diagnosis and treatment. However, the mortality rate of SSc remains considerable, mainly due to cardiopulmonary causes. A growing body of evidence suggests that geographical, regional, and ethnic differences could affect the epidemiology, clinical characteristics and prognosis of SSc. Although Korean data of this issue are lacking, a considerable amount of research has been published by many Korean researchers. To establish treatment strategies for Korean patients, extensive Korean research data are needed. This review summarizes the prevalence, incidence, mortality, and clinical and laboratory manifestations of Korean patients with SSc and discusses the current trends in evidence-based treatment and recommendations.

Systemic sclerosis in Native Americans of the American Southwest

OBJECTIVE

Many indigenous non-Caucasian populations, including Native Americans, have been reported to have higher rates, distinct clinical phenotypes, increased complications, and greater severity of systemic sclerosis (SSc). However, little is known of SSc specifically in Native Americans of the American Southwest. This study compared the clinical and serologic manifestations and outcomes of SSc in Native Americans and non-Native Americans (non-Natives) of this region.

METHODS

This cross-sectional retrospective study included 137 SSc patients (109 [80%] were non-Native and 28 [20%] were Native Americans) followed over a mean of 11.5 ± 7.6 years. Participants were repetitively evaluated with medical history, physical examination, echocardiography, chest imaging, and serologic testing. Disease characteristics and outcomes were statistically compared between Native Americans and non-Native patients.

RESULTS

The estimated prevalence of SSc in Native Americans was 40.0 cases/100 000 vs 17.1 cases/100 000 for non-Natives (odds ratio 2.34, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.55-3.55, P < .001). The cohorts were similar in terms age, age of onset, limited vs diffuse cutaneous SSc, telangiectasias, gastroesophageal reflux disease, Raynaud phenomenon, serologies, interstitial lung disease, pulmonary arterial hypertension, scleroderma renal crisis, cancer prevalence, and overall mortality (all P > .05). However, for Native Americans, mortality specifically from fatal infections was 3.94-fold that of non-Natives (hazard ratio 6.88, 95% CI 1.37-34.64; P < .001).

CONCLUSION

In Native Americans of the American Southwest, SSc is increased in prevalence but is phenotypically similar to SSc in non-Natives. However, mortality due specifically to infection is increased in Native Americans with SSc.

Gastrointestinal symptom severity and progression in systemic sclerosis

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the severity and evolution of patient-reported gastrointestinal tract (GIT) symptoms in systemic sclerosis (SSc) patients, assess predictive factors for progression and determine the impact of standard of care treatment.

METHODS

SSc patients from the Leiden and Oslo cohorts were included. We assessed clinical data and patient-reported GIT symptoms measured by the validated University of California, Los-Angeles Gastrointestinal-tract (UCLA-GIT) score at baseline and annually. GIT severity and progression was determined. Logistic regression was applied to identify risk factors associated with baseline GIT symptom severity. Linear mixed-effect models were applied to assess progression in GIT symptom burden and to identify predictive factors. We repeated all analysis in patients with early disease (inception cohort) to exclude the effect of longstanding disease and increase insights in development of GIT symptom burden early in the disease course.

RESULTS

We included 834 SSc patients with baseline UCLA GIT scores, 454 from Leiden and 380 from Oslo. In the total cohort, 28% reported moderate-severe GIT symptoms at baseline, with increased risk for severity conferred by ACA, smoking and corticosteroid use, while use of calcium channel blockers appeared protective. In the inception cohort, 23% reported moderate-severe GIT symptoms at baseline, with increased risk for females and with smoking. Over time, symptom burden increased mainly for reflux/bloating. Female sex and ACA predicted GIT symptom progression.

CONCLUSION

High GIT symptom burden is present early in SSc disease course. Both for prevalence and for progression of GIT symptom burden, female sex and smoking were identified as risk factors.

Esophageal Dysfunction in Systemic Sclerosis: An Update

Esophageal motility disorders are prevalent in 90% of patients with systemic sclerosis [scleroderma (SSc)], with an increased mortality rate in patients with severe esophageal involvement. Esophageal smooth muscle damage caused by ischemia, nerve damage, and inflammatory factors may be responsible for discomfort and various complications in these patients. The clinical manifestations are diverse. Most hospitals still use traditional esophageal manometry and 24-h pH monitoring to diagnose esophageal function in patients with SSc. The aim of this review article is to provide an overview of SSc-related esophageal motility disorders and related research progress, including the pathogenesis and clinical features of these disorders and the progress made in endoscopic diagnosis. We also discuss the possible pathogenesis and potential therapeutic targets.

Potential Role for Combined Subtype-Selective Targeting of M1 and M3 Muscarinic Receptors in Gastrointestinal and Liver Diseases

Despite structural similarity, the five subtypes comprising the cholinergic muscarinic family of G protein-coupled receptors regulate remarkably diverse biological functions. This mini review focuses on the closely related and commonly co-expressed M₁R and M₃R muscarinic acetylcholine receptor subtypes encoded respectively by CHRM1 and CHRM3. Activated M₁R and M₃R signal via G_q and downstream initiate phospholipid turnover, changes in cell calcium levels, and activation of protein kinases that alter gene transcription and ultimately cell function. The unexpectedly divergent effects of M₁R and M₃R activation, despite similar receptor structure, distribution, and signaling, are puzzling. To explore this conundrum, we focus on the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and liver because abundant data identify opposing effects of M₁R and M₃R activation on the progression of gastric, pancreatic, and colon cancer, and liver injury and fibrosis. Whereas M₃R activation promotes GI neoplasia, M₁R activation appears protective. In contrast, in murine liver injury models, M₃R activation promotes and M₁R activation mitigates liver fibrosis. We analyze these findings critically, consider their therapeutic implications, and review the pharmacology and availability for research and therapeutics of M₁R and M₃R-selective agonists and antagonists. We conclude by considering gaps in knowledge and other factors that hinder the application of these drugs and the development of new agents to treat GI and liver diseases.

Gut Microbiota And Inflammatory Disorders

The gut has been colonized with bacteria, fungi, viruses, archaea, eukarya. The human and bacterial cells are found in a 1:1 ratio, while the variance in the diversity of gut microbiota may result in Dysbiosis. Gut dysbiosis may result in various pathological manifestations. Beneficial gut microbiota may synthesize short-chain fatty acids like acetate, butyrate, propionate, while -gram-negative organisms are the primary source of LPS, a potent pro-inflammatory mediator. Both gut microbiota and microbial products may be involved in immunomodulation as well as inflammation. Prebiotics and probiotics are being explored as therapeutic agents against various inflammatory and autoimmune disorders. Here we discuss the molecular mechanisms involved in gut bacteria-mediated modulation of various inflammatory and autoimmune disorders.

Systemic Disease Associations with Disorders of Gut-Brain Interaction and Gastrointestinal Transit: A Review

Functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGID) are now classified within the Rome IV framework as disorders of gut-brain interaction (DGBI). Disorders of gastrointestinal transit (as defined by abnormalities on contemporary gastrointestinal motility testing) frequently are associated with symptoms that are also characteristic of DGBIs. In this narrative review, we outline a non-inclusive set of systemic diseases or risk factors that have been classically associated with DGBIs and disorders of gastrointestinal transit; these include diabetes mellitus, paraneoplastic syndromes, surgery, Parkinson's disease, systemic sclerosis, endocrinopathies, polypharmacy, and post-infectious syndromes.

Association between gastroprotective agents and risk of incident interstitial lung disease in systemic sclerosis

OBJECTIVES

Although interstitial lung disease (ILD) occurs in over half of systemic sclerosis (SSc) patients and represents a leading cause of mortality, there are currently no preventative strategies. We evaluated if gastroprotective agents were associated with a lower incident risk of SSc-ILD.

METHODS

An SSc cohort without clinically apparent ILD at baseline was constructed from the Canadian Scleroderma Research Group registry. The primary exposure was any use of gastroprotective agents. Treatment with promotility agents was assessed as a secondary exposure. Time to development of clinically apparent ILD was compared between exposed and unexposed person-time, using a multivariable marginal structural Cox model incorporating inverse probability of treatment weights to address time-varying confounding.

RESULTS

In total, 798 subjects met inclusion criteria. At cohort entry, median disease duration was 7.6 (IQR 3.9-15.6) years. During a median 4.4 (IQR 2.6-7.2) years of follow-up, 158 new ILD cases were diagnosed, for a crude incidence of 4.4 (95% CI 3.8-5.1) events per 100 person-years. Most (2085, 73.4%) person-visits were exposed to gastroprotective agents, 579 (20.4%) were exposed to promotility agents, and 554 (19.5%) were exposed to both agents. The marginal structural weighted hazard ratio (HR) for incident ILD related to gastroprotective agents was 0.86 (95% CI 0.52-1.41). When exposure was defined as treatment with promotility agents, the weighted adjusted HR was 0.79 (95% CI: 0.35-1.77).

CONCLUSION

In this large retrospective cohort study, we were unable to demonstrate a protective role for gastroprotective and promotility agents in preventing clinically apparent SSc-ILD.

Oesophageal motor disorders and oesophageal endoscopic involvement in patients with systemic sclerosis: a systematic association?

INTRODUCTION

Although oesophageal motor disorders (OMDs) are frequent in systemic sclerosis (SSc), the frequency of associated endoscopic lesions is unknown. We aimed at assessing the presence of endoscopic lesions in SSc patients with OMD. The secondary objective was to identify the clinical and serological profile of such patients.

METHODS

This retrospective study included SSc patients suffering from OMD diagnosed by oesophageal high-resolution manometry (OHRM) and with recent upper gastro-intestinal endoscopy (UGIE). Clinical data collected were age, gender, body mass index, SSc disease duration, tobacco, SSc cutaneous type, non-digestive SSc visceral disorders, oesophageal symptoms, serological profile (autoantibodies), proton pump inhibitor use, time between SSc diagnosis and UGIE.

RESULTS

53 selected patients from 210 SSc patients investigated by OHRM in our department were included. Among these patients, 25 (47.2%) had endoscopic lesions: 18 (34.6%) had oesophagitis and 7 (13.5%) had Barrett's oesophagus. The only two parameters significantly associated with endoscopic lesions were a shorter disease duration (6 vs. 11 years; p = .002) and a shorter delay between SSc diagnosis and UGIE (3 vs. 8.5 years; p = .002). No other clinical or biological parameters could help identify the patients at risk of endoscopic lesion.

CONCLUSION

In our study, only a shorter disease duration and a shorter delay between SSc diagnosis and UGIE were significantly associated with the presence of endoscopic lesions in patients with OMD, but no other parameters were identified. This study highlights the need to perform UGIE in SSc patients with OMD whatever their clinical symptoms.

Linaclotide for the treatment of refractory lower bowel manifestations of systemic sclerosis

Background

Lower gastrointestinal (GI) tract involvement can affect up to 50% of systemic sclerosis (SSc) patients, and may result in malabsorption, pseudo-obstruction, hospitalization, and death. We report our experience with linaclotide, a selective agonist of guanylate cyclase C (GC-C), for SSc patients with refractory lower GI disease.

Methods

We performed an analysis of patients seen at the Johns Hopkins Scleroderma Center and identified patients prescribed linaclotide for refractory lower GI manifestations. Patients had clinical data collected in our longitudinal database. Linaclotide responders were on medication for at least 12 months with documented effectiveness by the treating physician.

Results

Thirty-one patients with SSc were treated with linaclotide. At the time of linaclotide initiation, 23 of these patients (74%) were classified as having severe GI disease, as defined by recurrent pseudo-obstruction, malabsorption, and/or need for artificial nutrition (Medsger GI severity score ≥ 3). The majority of patients (90.3%; 28/31) had a treatment response, while only three patients (9.7%) reported ineffectiveness or intolerable side effects. Low-dose linaclotide (≤ 145 mcg daily) was used in 18 patients and was effective in 94%. High-dose therapy (> 145 mcg daily) was effective in 11 of 13 patients (85%). Common side effects were diarrhea, cramping, or bloating (11/31, 35%). Ineffectiveness, cost, and abdominal pain were complaints cited among those who discontinued therapy.

Conclusion

Linaclotide is a well-tolerated and efficacious pro-secretory and pro-motility agent that can be used to manage refractory lower GI manifestations in SSc. We found that low-dose linaclotide is an effective option and may be better tolerated, though a subset of patients may require high dose regimens.

The PREdictor of MAlnutrition in Systemic Sclerosis (PREMASS) Score: A Combined Index to Predict 12 Months Onset of Malnutrition in Systemic Sclerosis

Objective: Malnutrition is a severe complication in Systemic Sclerosis (SSc) and it is associated with significant mortality. Notwithstanding, there is no defined screening or clinical pathway for patients, which is hampering effective management and limiting the opportunity for early intervention. Here we aim to identify a combined index predictive of malnutrition at 12 months using clinical data and specific serum adipokines. Methods: This was an international, multicentre observational study involving 159 SSc patients in two independent discovery (n = 98) and validation (n = 61) cohorts. Besides routine clinical and serum data at baseline and 12 months, Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool (MUST) score and serum concentration of leptin and adiponectin were measured for each participant at baseline. The endpoint of malnutrition was defined according to European Society of Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism (ESPEN) recommendation. Significant parameters from univariate analysis were tested in logistic regression analysis to identify the predictive index of malnutrition in the derivation cohort. Results: The onset of malnutrition at 12 months correlated with adiponectin, leptin and their ratio (A/L), MUST, clinical subset, disease duration, Scl70 and Forced Vital Capaciy (FVC). Logistic regression analysis defined the formula: -2.13 + (A/L*0.45) + (Scl70*0.28) as the best PREdictor of MAlnutrition in SSc (PREMASS) (AUC = 0.96; 95% CI 0.93, 0.99). PREMASS < -1.46 had a positive predictive value (PPV) > 62% and negative predictive value (NPV) > 97% for malnutrition at 12 months. Conclusion: PREMASS is a feasible index which has shown very good performance in two independent cohorts for predicting malnutrition at 12 months in SSc. The implementation of PREMASS could aid both in clinical management and clinical trial stratification/enrichment to target malnutrition in SSc.

Comparing Clinical, Imaging, and Physiological Correlates of Intestinal Pseudo-Obstruction: Systemic Sclerosis vs Amyloidosis and Paraneoplastic Syndrome

INTRODUCTION

Intestinal pseudo-obstruction is characterized by impaired transit and luminal dilation in the absence of mechanical obstruction. Our study aims to describe the clinical, radiographic, and physiological findings in pseudo-obstruction associated with systemic sclerosis (SSc), amyloidosis, and paraneoplastic syndrome.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort of patients evaluated at our institution between January 1, 2008, and August 1, 2018, was assembled. Clinical, imaging, and physiological characteristics were abstracted from electronic medical records.

RESULTS

We identified 100 cases of pseudo-obstruction (55 SSc, 27 amyloidosis, and 18 paraneoplastic). Female population predominance was seen in SSc (71%) vs male population in amyloidosis (74%). Most common symptom was abdominal bloating in all 3 groups. Vomiting was more common in SSc than amyloidosis (73% vs 46%, P = 0.02). Diarrhea was more common in amyloidosis and SSc compared with paraneoplastic (81% and 67% vs 28%, P < 0.01). Weight loss (>5%) was more common in SSc compared with amyloidosis and paraneoplastic (78% vs 31% and 17%, P < 0.0001). Only small bowel dilation was seen in 79%, 40%, and 44% and only large bowel dilation in 2%, 44%, and 44% of patients in SSc, amyloidosis, and paraneoplastic, respectively. Five of 8 SSc patients had myopathic and 3 of 5 paraneoplastic had neuropathic involvement on gastroduodenal manometry.

DISCUSSION

SSc-associated pseudo-obstruction demonstrates female population predominance and presents with vomiting, diarrhea, and weight loss. Amyloidosis-associated pseudo-obstruction shows male population predominance. Small bowel is more commonly involved than large bowel on both imaging and transit studies in SSc. Myopathic involvement was more common in SSc, contrary to neuropathic in paraneoplastic syndrome.

Intestinal hypomotility in systemic sclerosis: a histological study into the sequence of events

OBJECTIVES

The pathogenesis of intestinal involvement in systemic sclerosis (SSc) is thought to be a sequential process (vascular, neuronal, and consecutive muscular impairment), but understanding of the underlying histological changes and how they translate to symptoms, is still lacking. Therefore, we systematically investigated histological characteristics of SSc in the intestines, compared to controls.

METHODS

Autopsy material from the small bowel and colon was used for histological semiquantitative evaluation of the vasculature, enteric nervous system, interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC), and muscle layers, using a combination of histochemical and immunohistochemical stainings, according to guidelines of the Gastro 2009 International Working Group.

RESULTS

Vascular changes were most frequently encountered, represented by intima fibrosis in both arteries and small vessels, and represented by venous dilatation. Second, generalized fibrosis of the circular muscle layer was significantly more found in SSc patients than in controls. Third, reduction of submucosal nerve fibers and myenteric neurons was shown in the colon of four SSc patients, which may explain severe symptoms of intestinal dysmotility. The density of myenteric ICC network was decreased in the small bowel of SSc patients.

CONCLUSIONS

The postulated sequential processes of intestinal involvement in SSc could not be supported by our histological evaluation. The interpatient diversity suggests that parallel processes occur, explaining the variety of histological features and clinical symptoms. Key Points • Histological analysis showed vascular changes, fibrosis in the muscularis propria, and reduction of the ENS and ICC network in the intestines of SSc patients. • Pathophysiological mechanisms leading to intestinal dysmotility in SSc may be parallel rather than sequential. • The interpatient diversity suggests parallel pathophysiological processes, explaining the variety of histological features and clinical symptoms.

Effectiveness of Saccharomyces boulardii and Metronidazole for Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth in Systemic Sclerosis

BACKGROUND

Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) affects up to 60% of patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc), and it improves with antibiotics. The addition of probiotics could lead to better results.

AIMS

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of Saccharomyces boulardii (SB) versus metronidazole (M) versus M + SB for 2 months, to reduce gastrointestinal symptoms and SIBO assessed with hydrogen breath test in SSc.

METHODS

An open pilot clinical trial performed in forty patients with SIBO and SSc (ACR-EULAR 2013) who signed informed consent. Three groups were assigned: M, SB, and M + SB, for 2 months. Hydrogen was measured in parts per million with a hydrogen breath test to evaluate SIBO. The National Institutes of Health Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (NIH-PROMIS) questionnaire was applied to quantify gastrointestinal symptoms with a raw score of eight symptoms. This study is registered in ClinicalTrials.gov with the following ID: NCT03692299.

RESULTS

Baseline characteristics were similar between groups. The average age was 53.2 ± 9.3 years, and the evolution of SSc was 13.5 (1-34) years. After 2 months of treatment, SIBO was eradicated in 55% of the M + SB group: 33% of SB, and 25% of M. The SB and M + SB groups had decreased diarrhea, abdominal pain, and gas/bloating/flatulence, but M remained unchanged. Reductions in expired hydrogen at 45 to 60 min were as follows: M + SB 48% and 44%, M 18% and 20%, and SB 53% and 60% at the first and second months, respectively (p < 0.01). Adverse effects were epigastric burning and constipation in M (53%) and M + SB (36%), and flatulence/diarrhea in SB (22%).

CONCLUSIONS

Metronidazole treatment is partially effective in SIBO, but S. boulardii in monotherapy or in combination improves the gastrointestinal outcomes in SSc.

Detecting gastrointestinal manifestations in patients with systemic sclerosis using anti-gAChR antibodies

BACKGROUND

Patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc) complicated by gastrointestinal dysmotility are difficult to treat and have high mortality. To clarify the pathogenesis of gastrointestinal manifestations, we aimed to demonstrate the association among the clinical features of SSc, the serological markers, the autoantibodies against nicotinic acetylcholine receptor at autonomic ganglia (gAChR).

METHODS

Fifty patients were enrolled and divided into two groups according to the presence or absence of gastrointestinal manifestations, and the characteristics were analyzed between these two groups. We measured biomarkers and the autoantibodies against two gAChRα3 and β4 subunits to test sera samples. Furthermore, patients were classified based on the presence or absence of anti-gAChR autoantibodies, and their clinical features were compared.

RESULTS

In patients with SSc and gastrointestinal manifestations, digital ulcers were more frequent (p = 0.050) and VEGF expression was significantly higher (p = 0.038). Seven subjects with SSc were seropositive for α3 subunit, whereas one patient was seropositive for β4 subunit. The mean level of anti-gAChRα3 autoantibodies in SSc patients with gastrointestinal manifestations was significantly higher than that in SSc patients without gastrointestinal manifestations (p = 0.001). The group of patients with SSc and gAChR autoantibodies had significantly higher endostatin levels (p = 0.046).

CONCLUSIONS

This study is the first to demonstrate that clinical characteristics of SSc patients with seropositivity for gAChR autoantibodies. Patients with SSc have circulating autoantibodies against gAChR, which may contribute to gastrointestinal manifestations associated with this disease, suggesting that gAChR-mediated autonomic neurotransmission may provide a pathomechanism for gastrointestinal dysmotility in SSc.

Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth in systemic sclerosis

Systemic sclerosis is a multi-organ autoimmune disease characterized by vasculopathy and fibrosis, and it is arguably the most devastating of the rheumatological diseases. The gastrointestinal tract is the most commonly involved internal organ in systemic sclerosis. Gastrointestinal tract involvement is reported in up to 90% of SSc patients, is the leading cause of morbidity, and is the third most common cause of mortality in this disease. Among all gastrointestinal tract manifestations, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth is one manifestation that may be ameliorated and even eradicated with appropriate treatment, if recognized early. Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth occurs with a prevalence of approximately 39% in systemic sclerosis and presents with a range of non-specific gastrointestinal tract symptoms, including diarrhea, flatulence, abdominal pain, bloating, and early satiety. These manifestations occur due to an alteration and overgrowth of small intestinal bacteria occurring in the setting of gastrointestinal tract dysmotility and slow transit time. The clinical diagnosis of small intestinal bacterial overgrowth is commonly based on the presence of characteristic clinical symptoms together with a positive hydrogen breath test and response to a therapeutic trial of oral antibiotics used sequentially. Almost two-thirds of systemic sclerosis patients with small intestinal bacterial overgrowth have an improvement in their gastrointestinal tract symptoms with rotating antibiotics. Untreated small intestinal bacterial overgrowth can lead to malnutrition, and thus an important aspect of treatment is the identification and treatment of any associated vitamin and mineral deficiencies. This article focuses on small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, an important and understudied area in systemic sclerosis that remains a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge for both patients and clinicians alike.

Severe gastrointestinal disease in very early systemic sclerosis is associated with early mortality

OBJECTIVES

To examine the incidence, predictors and outcomes associated with severe gastrointestinal (GI) disease in a large inception SSc cohort.

METHODS

SSc subjects with <2 years of disease duration were identified from two multicentre cohorts. Severe GI disease was defined as: malabsorption, hyperalimentation, pseudo-obstruction and/or ⩾10% weight loss in association with the use of antibiotics for bacterial overgrowth or oesophageal stricture. Kaplan-Meier, multivariate logistic regression and Cox proportional hazard analyses were performed to determine the cumulative incidence rate, independent clinical correlates and mortality rate associated with severe GI disease. A longitudinal mixed model was used to assess the impact of severe GI disease on the Short Form Health Survey.

RESULTS

In this inception SSc cohort, the probability of developing severe GI disease was estimated at 9.1% at 2 years and 16.0% at 4 years. In multivariate analysis, severe GI disease was associated with inflammatory myositis (odds ratio 4.68, 95% CI 1.65, 13.24), telangiectasias (odds ratio 2.45, 95% CI 1.19, 5.04) and modified Rodnan skin score (odds ratio 1.03, 95% CI 1.01, 1.07). Severe GI disease was associated with a >2-fold increase in the risk of death (hazard ratio 2.27, 95% CI 1.27, 4.09) and worse health-related quality of life [Short Form Health Survey physical (β = -2.37, P = 0.02) and mental (β = -2.86, P = 0.01) component summary scores].

CONCLUSION

Severe GI disease is common in early SSc and is associated with significant morbidity and increased mortality. More research is needed to understand, prevent and mitigate severe GI disease in SSc.

The validity and reliability study of the University of California, Los Angeles Scleroderma Clinical Trial Consortium Gastrointestinal Tract (UCLA SCTC GIT) 2.0 questionnaire for the Turkish society

BACKGROUND/AIMS

To translate the University of California, Los Angeles Scleroderma Clinical Trial Consortium Gastrointestinal Tract (UCLA SCTC GIT) 2.0 questionnaire from English to Turkish and to validate it.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

UCLA SCTC GIT 2.0 was translated into Turkish using the translation-retranslation method. The available Turkish GIT 2.0 and the Short Form 36 (SF-36) were administered to 97 Turkish-speaking patients with systemic sclerosis (Ssc). Internal consistency reliability and structural validity were assessed by analyzing the correlations between the UCLA SCTC GIT 2.0 and the SF-36 scales. Internal consistency was determined by calculating Cronbach's alpha. For evaluation of reliability, the questionnaire scale was repeatedly applied to a subgroup of patients with a 2-week interval, and the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was calculated. The Spearman's correlation coefficients between the GIT and the SF-36 scores were calculated.

RESULTS

A group of 97 patients with Ssc with a mean age of 55.37±11.35 years and a female predominance (87.6%) were included in the study. The Cronbach's alpha value for the UCLA SCTC GIT 2.0 scale was 0.894. ICC was 0.821 (p=0.000). The scale showed acceptable reliability, with the exception of the diarrhea subscale (alpha=0.356). There was a moderate correlation between the total GIT score and the Short Form 36 (SF-36) subscales. All of the items in the scale were included in the validity analysis owing to their reliability.

CONCLUSION

The Turkish GIT 2.0 scale showed good internal consistency, high reliability, and an acceptable validity.

Evaluation of risk factors for pseudo-obstruction in systemic sclerosis

OBJECTIVE

Although up to 90% of systemic sclerosis (SSc) patients are affected by gastrointestinal (GI) dysmotility, the clinical phenotype of patients with pseudo-obstruction is not well-defined. We sought to identify this phenotype by studying a large cohort of SSc patients with and without pseudo-obstruction.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective analysis of patients seen at the Johns Hopkins Scleroderma Center between February 2003 and September 2017. All SSc patients had clinical data prospectively collected in a longitudinal database. Cross-sectional analyses were performed comparing autoantibody status and clinical and demographic features of patients with and without pseudo-obstruction. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to identify risk factors for pseudo-obstruction.

RESULTS

175 patients with SSc had a history of pseudo-obstruction, and 2,637 SSc patients did not. After adjusting for significant variables from the univariate analysis and potential confounders, the Cox proportional hazards multivariable analysis demonstrated that older age (HR 1.02; 95%CI 1.00-1.04), male sex (HR 1.75; 95%CI 1.42-2.43), diffuse cutaneous disease (HR 2.52; 95%CI 1.59-3.99), myopathy (HR 1.83, 95%CI 1.09-3.08), and opioid use (HR 2.38; 95%CI 1.50-3.78) were predictive of pseudo-obstruction. Autoantibodies to RNA polymerase-3 were negatively associated with pseudo-obstruction (HR 0.34; 95%CI 0.17-0.66).

CONCLUSION

We identified clinical features associated with pseudo-obstruction in a large US SSc cohort. This study identifies characteristics of patients with SSc who are at a higher risk of developing pseudo-obstruction and suggests that opioids may be a modifiable risk factor. These clinical features may allow for earlier diagnostic evaluation and/or therapeutic intervention for patients at risk for pseudo-obstruction.

Gut disease in systemic sclerosis - new approaches to common problems

Purpose of review

The goal of this manuscript is to discuss the new diagnostic and potential treatment options for gut disease in systemic sclerosis (SSc). The concepts of quantification of gut perfusion and motility is reviewed. The risks of empiric therapeutics and challenges of studying the microbiome in SSc is discussed.

Recent findings

There are diagnostics that can provide information on gut perfusion and function that are of value in SSc. Easily implemented diagnostic tests are critical to avoid complications of empiric therapy. The role of the microbiome and drugs that target dysmotility are areas of active research.

Summary

SSc-related gastrointestinal tract involvement can be heterogeneous in clinical presentation and disease course. Noninvasive gastrointestinal measurement techniques that quantify neural communications with microvasculature in SSc can potentially guide the proper addition and discontinuation of therapeutics. The role of the microbiome and the role of nitric oxide on gut function are important areas of research for understanding gut dysfunction in SSc.

Intravenous Cyclophosphamide for Gastric Antral Vascular Ectasia Associated with Systemic Sclerosis Refractory to Endoscopic Treatment: A Case Report and Review of the Pertinent Literature

Gastric antral vascular ectasia (GAVE) is a rare cause of chronic gastric hemorrhaging and iron deficiency anemia and is characterized by a distinctive endoscopic appearance. The main treatment of GAVE is endoscopic; however, medication is necessary in refractory cases. We herein report a 69-year-old woman with systemic sclerosis (SSc) who developed recurrent severe anemia after endoscopic treatment of GAVE that was successfully managed using intravenous cyclophosphamide (IVCY). The recurrence of GAVE after discontinuation of IVCY was successfully managed using a combination of IVCY and endoscopic treatment, without blood transfusion. Long-term IVCY may be indicated for refractory GAVE associated with SSc.

Longitudinal Assessment of Patient-reported Outcome Measures in Systemic Sclerosis Patients with Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease — Scleroderma Clinical Trials Consortium

Objective.

Validated gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms scales are used in clinical practice to assess patient-reported GI involvement. We sought to determine whether University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) GI Tract Questionnaire (GIT) 2.0 Reflux scale, Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Reflux scale, and the Quality of Life in Reflux and Dyspepsia questionnaire (QOLRAD) are sensitive to identifying changes in GI symptoms following therapeutic intervention in participants with systemic sclerosis (SSc) and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Methods.

Participants with active GERD were recruited during clinical visits at 6 international SSc centers. Patient-reported outcome surveys and the GI self-reported questionnaire were completed at baseline and again at 4 weeks following a single intervention, and patients were classified as “improved” or “not improved.” Effect size (ES) was calculated to assess the sensitivity to change. ES was interpreted as 0.50–0.79 as moderate effect and ≥ 0.80 as large effect.

Results.

There were 116 participants with SSc and active GERD who enrolled. The average age was 53.8 years and mean disease duration was 12.0 years. The UCLA GIT 2.0 Reflux scale and PROMIS Reflux scale had a significant correlation at baseline (0.61, p < 0.0001), and both instruments correlated with the QOLRAD domains (−0.56 to −0.71). In participants who had the UCLA GIT 2.0, PROMIS Reflux scale, and QOLRAD administered over 2 timepoints (n = 57) and were classified as improved, the ES was large for the UCLA GIT 2.0 and PROMIS Reflux scale, and moderate to large across all QOLRAD domains.

Conclusion.

The UCLA GIT 2.0 Reflux scale, PROMIS Reflux scale, and QOLRAD are sensitive to change and can be included in future clinical trials.

Determining the Risk Factors and Clinical Features Associated With Severe Gastrointestinal Dysmotility in Systemic Sclerosis

OBJECTIVE

A subset of patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc) develop severe gastrointestinal (GI) dysmotility. We sought to determine predictors of severe SSc GI dysmotility and to identify distinct features associated with this phenotype.

METHODS

Patients with SSc who required supplemental nutrition (enteral or parenteral tube feeding) were compared to SSc patients with mild GI symptoms in a cross-sectional analysis. The association between severe GI dysmotility and clinical and serologic features was examined using logistic regression. Baseline data were examined to determine predictors of developing severe GI dysfunction using Cox regression.

RESULTS

SSc patients with severe GI dysmotility (n = 66) were more likely than those patients with mild GI symptoms (n = 1,736) to be male (odds ratio [OR] 2.47 [95% confidence interval (95% CI) 1.34-4.56]; P = 0.004), and to have myopathy (OR 5.53 [95% CI 2.82-10.82]; P < 0.001), and sicca symptoms (OR 2.40 [95% CI 1.30-4.42]; P = 0.005), even after adjustment for potential confounders. Baseline features that were associated with the future development of severe GI dysfunction included male sex (hazard ratio [HR] 2.99 [95% CI 1.53-5.84]; P = 0.001) and myopathy (HR 5.08 [95% CI 2.21-11.67]; P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Distinct clinical features are present in SSc patients who are at risk of developing severe GI dysmotility. This finding is not only important clinically but also suggests that a unique pathologic process is at work in these patients.

Gastrointestinal and Hepatic Disease in Systemic Sclerosis

Although classification criteria for systemic sclerosis (SSc) do not incorporate gastrointestinal tract (GIT) manifestations often present in this disease, the GIT is the most common internal organ involved. Pathophysiology of GIT involvement is thought to be similar to other organs in SSc with fibroproliferative vascular lesions of small arteries and arterioles, increased production of profibrotic growth factors, and alterations of innate, humoral, and cellular immunity. These processes result in neuropathy progressing to myopathy with eventual fibrosis. Proper diagnostics and therapeutics for SSc-GIT involvement require the treating physician to have an understanding of an integrated approach and potential medication adverse effects.

Intestinal Involvement in Systemic Sclerosis: A Clinical Review

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a chronic systemic disease characterized by microvasculopathy, autoantibodies, and extensive fibrosis. Intestinal involvement is frequent in SSc and represents a significant cause of morbidity. The pathogenesis of intestinal involvement includes vascular damage, nerve dysfunction, smooth muscle atrophy, and fibrosis, causing hypomotility, which leads to small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), malabsorption, malnutrition, diarrhea, pseudo-obstruction, constipation, pneumatosis intestinalis, and fecal incontinence. Manifestations are often troublesome and reduce quality of life and life expectancy. Assessment of intestinal involvement includes screening for small intestine hypomotility, malnutrition, SIBO, and anorectal dysfunction. Current management of intestinal manifestations is largely inadequate. Patients with diarrhea are managed with low-fat diet, medium-chain triglycerides, avoidance of lactulose and fructose, and control of bacterial overgrowth with antibiotics for SIBO. In diarrhea/malabsorption, bile acid sequestrant and pancreatic enzyme supplementation may help, and nutritional support is needed. General measures are applied for constipation, and intestine rest plus antibiotics for pseudo-obstruction. Fecal incontinence is managed with measures for associated SIBO, or constipation, and with behavioral therapies. Pneumatosis intestinalis is usually an incidental finding that does not require any specific treatment. Immunomoduation should be considered early in intestinal involvement. Multidisciplinary approach of intestinal manifestations in SSc by gastroenterologists and rheumatologists is required for optimum management.

Gastrointestinal Manifestations of Systemic Sclerosis

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare autoimmune disease characterized by fibroproliferative alterations of the microvasculature leading to fibrosis and loss of function of the skin and internal organs. Gastrointestinal manifestations of SSc are the most commonly encountered complications of the disease affecting nearly 90% of the SSc population. Among these complications, the esophagus and the anorectum are the most commonly affected. However, this devastating disorder does not spare any part of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT), and includes the oral cavity, esophagus, stomach, small and large bowels as well as the liver and pancreas. In this review, we present the current understanding of the pathophysiologic mechanisms of SSc including vasculopathy, endothelial to mesenchymal transformation as well as the autoimmune pathogenetic pathways. We also discuss the clinical presentation and diagnosis of each part of the GIT affected by SSc. Finally, we highlight the latest developments in the management of this disease, addressing the severe malnutrition that affects this vulnerable patient population and ways to assess and improve the nutritional status of the patients.

Pain threshold and temporomandibular function in systemic sclerosis: comparison with psoriatic arthritis

The aim of the study was to evaluate whether a reduced pain threshold is associated with increased temporomandibular dysfunction in systemic sclerosis (SSc) compared to psoriatic arthritis (PsA) and healthy controls. Ninety subjects participated in the study (30 SSc, 30 PsA, and 30 healthy controls). The Helkimo index was used to evaluate temporomandibular dysfunction. Digital palpation was performed at the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) surface and at the superficial masseter muscle (SMM) and pain intensity was recorded on a visual analog scale (VAS), while pain pressure threshold (PPT) was measured at the same sites through a pressure algometer. PPT scores were lower in SSc patients compared to PsA patients and controls. In addition, the average Helkimo index score, measuring the degree of TMJ dysfunction, was higher in SSc compared to PsA and controls. A significant inverse correlation was observed between every PPT score, and both Helkimo index and VAS palpation in SSc and PsA. Both the range of motion and all the other pain-related subdomains of the Helkimo index score (pain on movement, pain palpation TMJ and pain palpation muscle) were significantly worse in SSc compared to PsA, while no significant differences were observed in the TMJ function subdomain. In SSc patients, the skin score was directly associated with the range of motion subdomain of the Helkimo index. Our results confirm that TMJ function is impaired in SSc; further longitudinal studies are needed to assess the role of pain threshold in the assessment of limitations in TMJ function and to identify an objective marker of therapeutic response.

Malnutrition and sarcopenia in a large cohort of patients with systemic sclerosis

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disease which may lead to malnutrition. Previous studies have defined it with different criteria. No thorough evaluations of sarcopenia in SSc are available. The aim of the present study was to assess the prevalence and the potential association of malnutrition and sarcopenia in a large cohort of SSc cases. A total of 141 SSc consecutive outpatients were enrolled. Body composition was analyzed by densitometry. Malnutrition was defined according to recently published ESPEN criteria, whereas sarcopenia was diagnosed in patients with reduced skeletal muscle index. Malnutrition was diagnosed in 9.2% of patients (95% CI, 4.4-14.0%). Malnourished patients had worse gastrointestinal symptoms according to UCLA SCTC GIT 2.0 questionnaire (p = 0.007), lower physical activity (p = 0.028), longer disease duration (p = 0.019), worse predicted DLCO/VA and FVC (p = 0.009, respectively), worse disease severity according to Medsger severity score (p < 0.001), lower hemoglobin (p = 0.023), and fat-free mass (p < 0.001) and were more often sarcopenic (p < 0.001). In multivariate analysis, only FVC (p = 0.006) and disease severity (p = 0.003), in particular for the lungs (p = 0.013), were confirmed to be worse in malnourished patients. Sarcopenia was diagnosed in 29\140 patients (20.7%; 95% CI, 14.0-27.4%); 11\29 were also malnourished. In multivariate analysis, sarcopenic patients had longer disease duration (p = 0.049), worse DLCO/VA (p = 0.002), and lung (p = 0.006) and skin (p = 0.014) involvement. In SSc, malnutrition defined with ESPEN criteria was found to be lower than previously reported. Sarcopenia was found to be somewhat common. Lung involvement was significantly associated with nutritional status and may not be explained only by muscle weakness.

Gut microbiota profile in systemic sclerosis patients with and without clinical evidence of gastrointestinal involvement

Recent evidence suggests that there is a link between the gut microbial community and immune-mediated disorders. Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disease characterized by immunonological abnormalities, vascular lesions, and extensive fibrosis. Since the gastrointestinal tract is one of the organs most involved, the goal of this study was to explore the composition of the intestinal microbiota in SSc patients with (SSc/GI+) and without gastrointestinal involvement (SSc/GI-) in comparison to healthy controls (HC). The fecal bacterial composition was investigated by Illumina sequencing of 16 S rRNA gene amplicons. The fecal microbiota of SSc/GI+ subjects was characterized by higher levels of Lactobacillus, Eubacterium and Acinetobacter compared with healthy controls, and lower proportions of Roseburia, Clostridium, and Ruminococcus. The gut microbiota of SSc/GI- subjects was more similar to the microbiota of HC than to that of SSc/GI+ subjects albeit Streptococcus salivarius was over-represented in SSc/GI- fecal samples compared with both SSc/GI+ subjects and controls. Our study reveals microbial signatures of dysbiosis in the gut microbiota of SSc patients that are associated with clinical evidence of gastrointestinal disease. Further studies are needed to elucidate the potential role of these perturbations in the onset and progression of systemic sclerosis, and gastrointestinal involvement in particular.

Gastrointestinal manifestations associated with systemic sclerosis: results from the nationwide inpatient sample

Background

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a multisystem disease associated with significant morbidity and increased mortality. The prevalence of different gastrointestinal (GI) manifestations has been investigated in multiple, but mainly small, retrospective studies. In this study, we investigated the prevalence and risk for a broad spectrum of GI disorders and malignancies in a large sample of inpatients with SSc in the United States.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis using the 2010-2011 Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project – Nationwide Inpatient Sample (HCUP-NIS). SSc patients were identified by ICD-9-CM code 710.1. Non-SSc patients (“controls”) were matched to cases 4:1 by age and sex. We examined demographics, clinical characteristics, and a range of GI conditions.

Results

From 15,824,031 total patients, 13,633 cases of SSc were matched to 54,532 controls. The prevalence of GI manifestations among SSc patients was 59.24% compared to 29.96% for controls (P<0.0001). Significantly elevated GI manifestations in SSc patients included dysphagia (4.3% vs. 1.9%, P<0.0001), esophageal reflux (34.8% vs. 15.4%, P<0.0001), Barrett’s esophagus (1.7% vs. 0.3%, P<0.0001), constipation (6% vs. 4.6%, P<0.0001), diarrhea (4.5% vs. 2.4%, P<0.0001), fecal incontinence (0.4% vs. 0.2%, P<0.0001), and celiac disease (0.2% vs. 0%, P<0.0001). Some GI disorders were significantly lower in SSc patients, including cholelithiasis (1.6% vs. 2.1%, P<0.0001) and GI malignancies (1% vs. 2.2%, P<0.0001).

Conclusions

Our results emphasize the established association between SSc and esophageal disorders, such as dysphagia and reflux disease. Our analysis indicated a significant positive association between SSc and celiac disease, and a negative association between SSC and cholelithiasis.

Early Accrual of Organ Damage in Systemic Sclerosis: Rationale for Development of a Disease Damage Index

Introduction

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is characterized by irreversible organ damage rather than fluctuating disease activity. However, there is no validated measure of damage in SSc. We aimed to quantify the accrual of organ damage in patients with early SSc.

Methods

Patients enrolled in the Australian Scleroderma Cohort Study with less than 2 years of SSc since the onset of the first non-Raynaud's symptom were included. Organ damage was defined by a group of six experts as substantial and permanent loss of organ function due to SSc.

Results

We identified 278 patients with early SSc. Among these, 38% had diffuse SSc. Damage was more common in the diffuse than in the limited disease subtype in the skin/musculoskeletal (75% vs. 25.2%, p<0.001) and lung (31.4% vs. 19.9%, p = 0.035) domains at year seven. The rates of damage accrual were highest in the skin/musculoskeletal, gastrointestinal and respiratory systems at year two (29.1%, 18.7%, 14.4%), increasing at year five (41.4%, 30.6%, 21.2%) and declining thereafter to year seven (43.9%, 32.7%, 23.0%). In particular, there was early accrual of damage due to joint contracture (22.3%), gastrointestinal dysmotility (11.5%) and pulmonary fibrosis with forced vital capacity <70% predicted (9.7%) at year two. The highest accrual rate of organ-specific damage from years two to seven was seen in fecal incontinence followed by proximal muscle weakness and pulmonary fibrosis.

Conclusions

Substantial accrual of organ damage occurs early in the course of disease, particularly in diffuse SSc. This provides the rationale for the development of a SSc damage index.

Antifibrillarin Antibodies Are Associated with Native North American Ethnicity and Poorer Survival in Systemic Sclerosis

OBJECTIVE

To examine the clinical correlates and survival in patients with antifibrillarin antibodies (AFA) in a large international study population consisting of well-characterized systemic sclerosis (SSc) cohorts from Canada, Australia, and the United States.

METHODS

Baseline clinical data from the prospective cohorts (Canadian Scleroderma Research Group, the Australian Scleroderma Cohort Study, and the American Genetics versus Environment in Scleroderma Outcome Study) were investigated. Clinical variables were harmonized and sera were tested for AFA using a commercially available SSc profile line immunoassay, regardless of the immunofluorescence staining pattern. Association of demographic and clinical features with AFA was investigated by logistic or linear regression. Further, a survival analysis was performed by Cox regression analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 1506 patients with SSc with complete serological profiles were included in the study. Fifty-two patients (3.5%) had antibodies detected against fibrillarin. Patients of African descent and Native North American ethnicity were more likely to be AFA-positive compared with other ethnicities. After adjustment for demographic factors, diffuse involvement, and intestinal bacterial overgrowth requiring antibiotics, gastrointestinal reflux disease showed a trend for association with AFA. Further, AFA positivity was associated with shorter survival independently of demographic factors and disease type (HR 1.76, 95% CI 1.11-2.79, p = 0.016).

CONCLUSION

In this large multinational SSc cohort, AFA was associated with Native American ethnicity and was an independent predictor of mortality.

Current management of the gastrointestinal complications of systemic sclerosis

Systemic sclerosis is a multisystem autoimmune disorder that involves the gastrointestinal tract in more than 90% of patients. This involvement can extend from the mouth to the anus, with the oesophagus and anorectum most frequently affected. Gut complications result in a plethora of presentations that impair oral intake and faecal continence and, consequently, have an adverse effect on patient quality of life, resulting in referral to gastroenterologists. The cornerstones of gastrointestinal symptom management are to optimize symptom relief and monitor for complications, in particular anaemia and malabsorption. Early intervention in patients who develop these complications is critical to minimize disease progression and improve prognosis. In the future, enhanced therapeutic strategies should be developed, based on an ever-improving understanding of the intestinal pathophysiology of systemic sclerosis. This Review describes the most commonly occurring clinical scenarios of gastrointestinal involvement in patients with systemic sclerosis as they present to the gastroenterologist, with recommendations for the suggested assessment protocol and therapy in each situation.

Measures of disease status in systemic sclerosis: A systematic review

OBJECTIVES

To identify and appraise measures of disease status in systemic sclerosis (SSc).

METHODS

A systematic review of Medline (1966-2015), EMBASE (1974-2015), and Cochrane Library (inception-2015) was undertaken to identify indices of disease status in SSc. We focused on objective measures and excluded non-English articles. Measures were reviewed for content, whether they measured activity, damage and/or severity and whether they were validated according to the OMERACT filter.

RESULTS

Of the 4558 articles retrieved through the search, we identified 58 articles for review. We found a further 44 articles through a search of the bibliography of relevant articles. We identified the following 10 "composite" (multi-organ) indices: two disease activity indices, six disease severity scales, and two combined response indices. There was no disease damage index for SSc.

CONCLUSIONS

We identified a number of composite and organ-specific indices in SSc, incorporating mostly objective measures, developed to quantify disease activity, severity, and response in clinical trials. However, none of the indices was developed to exclusively quantify organ damage. Most of the existing indices require further validation according to the OMERACT filter. There is a need to develop and validate a disease damage index in SSc.

Systemic sclerosis: The need for structured care

Autoimmune connective tissue diseases (CTDs) have a propensity to affect multiple organ systems as well as physical function, quality of life, and survival. Their clinical heterogeneity, multisystem involvement, and low worldwide prevalence present challenges for researchers to establish a study design to help better understand the course and outcomes of CTDs. Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a notable example of a CTD, wherein longitudinal cohort studies (LCS) have enabled us to elucidate disease manifestations, disease course, and risk and prognostic factors for clinically important outcomes, by embedding research in clinical practice. Nevertheless, further efforts are needed to better understand SSc especially with regard to recognizing organ involvement early, developing new therapies, optimizing the use of existing therapies, and defining treatment targets. The heterogeneous multi-organ nature of SSc would lend itself well to a structured model of care, wherein step-up treatment algorithms are used with the goal of attaining a prespecified treatment target. In this chapter, we discuss the rationale for a structured treatment approach in SSc and propose possible treatment algorithms for three of the more common disease manifestations, namely skin involvement, digital ulcers and gastrointestinal tract involvement. We discuss possible strategies for evaluating and implementing these algorithms in the setting of LCS. We conclude by presenting a research agenda for the development of structured models of care in SSc.

Laparoscopic Antireflux Surgery in Patients with Connective Tissue Diseases

Different connective tissue diseases (CTDs), such as dermatomyositis, mixed CTD, rheumatoid arthritis, polymyositis, lupus, and Behçet's, may affect the esophagus, impairing its motor function. The muscular atrophy and fibrosis caused by the autoimmune vasculitis and neuronal dysfunction affect the esophageal body and the lower esophageal sphincter, leading to a clinical presentation of dysphagia and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The belief that the impaired esophageal motility may negatively affect surgical outcome has led to the common recommendation of avoiding laparoscopic antireflux surgery (LARS) for fear of creating or worsening dysphagia. This review focuses on the evaluation of the outcome of LARS in patients with CTD. Specifically, this review shows that the literature on LARS and CTDs is scarce and most studies have a small number of patients and a short follow-up. Furthermore, a subanalysis of the outcome based on the type of CTD or the manometric profile is still elusive. In the setting of these limitations, it appears that results are good and comparable to those of patients with GERD and without a CTD. Morbidity and mortality are insignificant even considering the systemic manifestations of the CTD. LARS should not be denied to patients with CTD and GERD.