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García-Romero MT, Brandling-Bennett HA, Pope E, Sibbald C, Medina-Vera I, Elizalde-Jiménez IG, Chiu YE. Responsiveness to Change of the Morphea Activity Measure in Pediatric Patients. JAMA Dermatol 2024; 160:736-740. [PMID: 38837147 PMCID: PMC11154365 DOI: 10.1001/jamadermatol.2024.1350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
Importance Detecting activity of morphea can be complex but is crucial for adequate treatment and outcome assessment. The Morphea Activity Measure (MAM) was recently validated, but its responsiveness to change in disease activity has not been studied. Objective To evaluate the internal and external responsiveness of MAM to changes in disease activity in pediatric patients. Design, Setting, and Participants This multicenter prospective, longitudinal prognostic study was performed from October 2021 to January 2023 at 4 pediatric referral centers in North America. Consecutive pediatric patients with morphea who were available for data collection at baseline and at a follow-up visit at least 3 months later were studied. Exposure Patient demographics, clinical characteristics, and measurements of disease activity collected at baseline and the subsequent visit. Main Outcome and Measures Responsiveness of MAM to disease activity according to the modified Localized Scleroderma Severity Index (mLoSSI), the Physician Global Assessment (PGA), and a patient and parent global assessment (PtGA) was analyzed using mean and percentage change, standardized effect size, and standardized response mean (SRM) from baseline to follow-up 3 or more months later. Differences between patients whose activity improved vs did not improve were evaluated using the Mann-Whitney U test. The correlation between percentage change in MAM score and mLoSSI, the PGA, and the PtGA was calculated using Spearman rank correlation. Results A total of 43 patients (mean [SD] age at onset, 7.11 [3.18] years; 26 [60.5%] female) were included. The mean change and percentage change in MAM score were significantly larger in those whose disease activity improved by the PGA (mean: -18.75 [95% CI, -31.92 to -5.57] vs 2.73 [95% CI, -1.97 to 7.45]; percentage: -108.08% [95% CI, -155.21% to -60.95%] vs -24.11% [95% CI, -81.22% to 32.99%]) and by mLoSSI (mean: -24.15 [95% CI, -41.89 to -6.41] vs -1.30 [95% CI, -8.50 to 5.70]; percentage: -172.06% [95% CI, -263.68% to -80.45%] vs -21.57% [95% CI, -48.13% to 4.97%]) than in those whose activity did not change. The SRM of MAM was significantly different between groups for both measures; the responsiveness was large in those whose activity decreased by the PGA (-0.75 [95% CI, -1.29 to -0.22]) and mLoSSI (-0.97 [95% CI, -1.69 to -0.25]) and none to small in those whose activity did not change by the PGA (0.11 [95% CI, -0.08 to 0.30]) or mLoSSI (-0.05 [95% CI, -0.34 to 0.23]). Percentage change in MAM score correlated strongly and significantly with change in mLoSSI (ρ = 0.69; P < .001) and PGA (ρ = 0.65; P < .001), but there was no correlation with change in the PtGA (ρ = 0.26; P = .09). Conclusions and Relevance In this prognostic study, MAM was found to be internally and externally responsive to changes in disease activity. Further evaluation in mixed cohorts of all ages and specialties is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Heather A. Brandling-Bennett
- Division of Dermatology, Seattle Children’s Hospital, Seattle, Washington
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle
| | - Elena Pope
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Pediatrics, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Cathryn Sibbald
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Pediatrics, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Isabel Medina-Vera
- Department of Research Methodology, National Institute of Pediatrics, Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | - Yvonne E. Chiu
- Division of Pediatric Dermatology, Department of Dermatology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee
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Li SC, Rabinovich CE, Becker ML, Torok KS, Ferguson PJ, Dedeoglu F, Hong S, Sivaraman V, Laxer RM, Stewart K, Ibarra MF, Mason T, Higgins G, Pope E, Li X, Lozy T, Fuhlbrigge RC. Capturing the Range of Disease Involvement in Localized Scleroderma: The Localized Scleroderma Total Severity Scale. Arthritis Care Res (Hoboken) 2024; 76:616-626. [PMID: 38148547 DOI: 10.1002/acr.25281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/28/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Juvenile localized scleroderma (jLS) is a chronic autoimmune disease commonly associated with poor outcomes, including contractures, hemiatrophy, uveitis, and seizures. Despite improvements in treatment, >25% of patients with jLS have functional impairment. To improve patient evaluation, our workgroup developed the Localized scleroderma Total Severity Scale (LoTSS), an overall disease severity measure. METHODS LoTSS was developed as a weighted measure by a consensus process involving literature review, surveys, case vignettes, and multicriteria decision analysis. Feasibility was assessed in larger Childhood Arthritis and Rheumatology Research Alliance groups. Construct validity with physician assessment and inter-rater reliability was assessed using case vignettes. Additional evaluation was performed in a prospective patient cohort initiating treatment. RESULTS LoTSS severity items were organized into modules that reflect jLS disease patterns, with modules for skin, extracutaneous, and craniofacial manifestations. Construct validity of LoTSS was supported by a strong positive correlation with the Physician Global Assessment (PGA) of severity and damage and weak positive correlation with PGA-Activity, as expected. LoTSS was responsive, with a small effect size identified. Moderate-to-excellent inter-rater reliability was demonstrated. LoTSS was able to discriminate between patient subsets, with higher scores identified in those with greater disease burden and functional limitation. CONCLUSION We developed a new LS measure for assessing cutaneous and extracutaneous severity and have shown it to be reliable, valid, and responsive. LoTSS is the first measure that assesses and scores all the major extracutaneous manifestations in LS. Our findings suggest LoTSS could aid assessment and management of patients and facilitate outcome evaluation in treatment studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzanne C Li
- Joseph M. Sanzari Children's Hospital, Hackensack, and Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, Nutley, New Jersey
| | | | - Mara L Becker
- Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | | | | | | | - Sandy Hong
- University of Iowa Stead Family Children's Hospital, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Vidya Sivaraman
- The Ohio State University and Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Ronald M Laxer
- Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, and The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Katie Stewart
- Texas Children's Hospital and Baylor College of Medicine, Austin, Texas
| | | | | | - Gloria Higgins
- The Ohio State University and Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Elena Pope
- Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, and The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Xiaohu Li
- Stevens Institute of Technology, Hoboken, New Jersey
| | - Tara Lozy
- Center for Discovery and Innovation, Hackensack Meridian Health, Nutley, New Jersey
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Al-Nasrawi AN, Abdulkareem AS, Mohammed Ali MN. The Serological Evidence of Positive Rheumatoid Factor in Morphea Patients and Its Relation to Disease Severity. Cureus 2024; 16:e61105. [PMID: 38919251 PMCID: PMC11197628 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.61105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Background and objective Morphea, or localized scleroderma (LS), is an autoimmune skin disorder characterized by inflammation and sclerosis. Its potential causes include infections, genetic predisposition, and trauma. The disease involves cycles of inflammation and fibrosis, leading to skin hardening and scarring, which can cause deformities if untreated. Research exploring the link between morphea and rheumatoid factor (RF), a marker associated with other autoimmune conditions, is ongoing. This study aimed to examine the less-explored role of RF, a marker typically linked to rheumatoid arthritis (RA), in the severity of morphea. It focused on assessing the levels of RF among morphea patients and its correlation with disease severity, intending to provide deeper insights into the condition and its management. Methods This study involved a simple randomized cross-sectional analysis to evaluate the role of the RF in measuring morphea severity among patients at the Dermatology and Venereology Department of Al-Sader Teaching Hospital from October 2022 to December 2023. We included participants with clinically and laboratory-confirmed morphea while excluding those with other autoimmune dermatological diseases, recent systemic steroid or immunosuppressive therapy, and pregnant women. The assessment of disease severity was done by utilizing the Localized Scleroderma Cutaneous Assessment Tool (LoSCAT). Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS Statistics version 27 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY), with a significance threshold of p<0.05. Results Elevated RF levels were significantly associated with increased morphea severity, with severe cases showing higher RF levels (mean: 30.34 U/mL) compared to moderate (25.83 U/mL) and mild cases (21.56 U/mL) (p = 0.028). However, no significant correlation was found between RF levels and demographic factors such as age, gender, or occupation. Patients with high RF levels had a longer disease duration (mean: 57.15 years) compared to those with normal levels (25.83 years, p = 0.020). Significant differences were observed in lesion distribution on the back (p = 0.002). Logistic regression indicated that severe morphea patients were more likely to have elevated RF levels [odds ratio (OR): 1.158, p = 0.014]. Conclusions This study enriches our understanding of RF's role in morphea, revealing no significant correlation with demographic factors but suggesting its potential role in disease chronicity and severity.
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Teske N, Fett N. Recent Advances in Treatment of Systemic Sclerosis and Morphea. Am J Clin Dermatol 2024; 25:213-226. [PMID: 38087156 DOI: 10.1007/s40257-023-00831-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) and morphea are autoimmune sclerosing diseases that cause significant morbidity, and in the case of SSc, mortality. The pathogenesis of both SSc and morphea share vascular dysfunction, auto-reactive T cells and Th2-associated cytokines, such as interleukin 4, and overproduction of transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ). TGFβ stimulates fibroblast collagen and extra-cellular matrix production. Although morphea and SSc have similar pathogenic pathways and histological findings, they are distinct diseases. Recent advances in treatment of morphea, skin sclerosis in SSc, and interstitial lung disease in SSc are focused on targeting known pathogenic pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noelle Teske
- Department of Dermatology, Oregon Health and Science University, 3303 SW Bond Avenue, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
| | - Nicole Fett
- Department of Dermatology, Oregon Health and Science University, 3303 SW Bond Avenue, Portland, OR, 97239, USA.
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Al-Gburi S, Kreuter A, Moinzadeh P. [Localized scleroderma]. DERMATOLOGIE (HEIDELBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 75:197-207. [PMID: 38363312 DOI: 10.1007/s00105-024-05297-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
Localized scleroderma (LS), also called circumscribed scleroderma or morphea, comprises a heterogeneous group of diseases that can be classified into four subtypes: limited, linear, generalized, and mixed LS. All manifestations are primarily due to chronic progressive fibrosis of the skin or structures close to the skin. Involvement of internal organs or the transition to systemic sclerosis is excluded by definition. A distinction is made between forms that primarily affect the skin (up to the dermis) or that severely involve subcutaneous fat tissue, muscle fascia or muscles. A detailed examination is required for clinical diagnosis. In order to improve comparability of findings, photo documentation and the use of clinical scores should be carried out. For superficial subtypes the use of topical glucocorticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors or phototherapy is initially recommended, whereas for severe forms with deep involvement or overall therapy refractoriness, the diagnosis should first be expanded and systemic therapy initiated at an early stage. Especially, in cross joint or extremity-dominant forms of linear LS or in cases with head and neck involvement, such as en coup de sabre, Parry-Romberg syndrome and other subtypes with a prominent musculoskeletal affection, an MRI examination should be arranged. Depending on location, an ophthalmological, neurological, orthodontic, rheumatological or orthopedic consultation may be necessary. For systemic therapy, methotrexate alone or in combination with systemic glucocorticosteroids as pulse therapy is recommended as first-line treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzan Al-Gburi
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Dermatologie, Uniklinik Köln, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937, Köln, Deutschland.
| | - Alexander Kreuter
- Klinik für Dermatologie, Venerologie und Allergologie, Helios St. Elisabeth Klinik Oberhausen, Oberhausen, Deutschland
- Klinik für Dermatologie, Venerologie und Allergologie, Helios St. Johannes Klinik Duisburg, Duisburg, Deutschland
| | - Pia Moinzadeh
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Dermatologie, Uniklinik Köln, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937, Köln, Deutschland.
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Strauss T, Günther C, Brück N. [Juvenile localized scleroderma]. DERMATOLOGIE (HEIDELBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 75:208-213. [PMID: 38240812 DOI: 10.1007/s00105-023-05293-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
Juvenile scleroderma, often referred to as juvenile localized scleroderma or "morphea", is a rare inflammatory disease of the skin and skin-related structures, accompanied by local sclerosis and tissue fibrosis. Depending on the clinical manifestation, four different subtypes can be defined: limited, generalized, linear, and mixed. To prevent possible sequelae of the disease, the diagnosis should be made as early as possible and therapy should be initiated at specialized centers in multiprofessional pediatric and dermatologic collaboration. In this review, we present the main clinical, laboratory, and therapeutic characteristics of juvenile localized scleroderma and summarize recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timmy Strauss
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Kinder- und Jugendmedizin, Medizinische Fakultät und Universitätsklinikum Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Fetscherstr. 74, 01307, Dresden, Deutschland.
| | - Claudia Günther
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Dermatologie, Medizinische Fakultät und Universitätsklinikum Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Deutschland
| | - Normi Brück
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Kinder- und Jugendmedizin, Medizinische Fakultät und Universitätsklinikum Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Fetscherstr. 74, 01307, Dresden, Deutschland
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7
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O'Connor C, McCarthy S, Kiely L, McAuliffe MAP, Bennett M. Novel multispectral imaging to predict disease progression in pediatric morphea. Pediatr Dermatol 2024; 41:229-233. [PMID: 38305508 DOI: 10.1111/pde.15485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Morphea, or localized scleroderma, is an inflammatory, fibrosing skin disorder that can be progressive and debilitating. Infrared thermography frequently has false positive results. The aim of this study was to assess the ability of multispectral imaging to predict disease progression in children with morphea. METHODS Children with morphea were recruited between 2016 and 2022. Multispectral images of affected and matched contralateral unaffected sites were obtained using the Antera™ 3D camera. Clinical assessment was performed using the Localized Scleroderma Assessment Tool (LoSCAT). Children were followed up every 3 months for imaging and clinical review. The main outcome measurement was correlation of hemoglobin gradient between affected and matched contralateral unaffected tissue and progression. RESULTS Of 17 children, the average age was 12 years (range 6-18 years); most were female (76.5%) and white (94.1%). Nearly two-thirds (64.7%) had linear morphea, 35.2% had plaque morphea; 58.8% had been treated with systemic agents. The average LoSCAT score was 20.6 (range 5-73). The average hemoglobin gradient between affected and matched contralateral unaffected skin was four times higher in those who had progression (average differential 0.3, range 0.1-0.4) compared to those who did not (average differential 0.08, range 0.02-0.15). Using a cut off of a 0.18 hemoglobin gradient between affected and unaffected skin, the sensitivity of multispectral imaging for detecting progression in pediatric morphea is 90% with specificity of 100%. CONCLUSIONS Multispectral imaging is a novel assessment tool with promising accuracy in predicting progression as an adjunct to clinical assessment in pediatric morphea. Further research should examine its performance against thermography.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cathal O'Connor
- Department of Dermatology, South Infirmary Victoria University Hospital, Cork, Ireland
- INFANT Research Centre, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Siobhan McCarthy
- Department of Dermatology, South Infirmary Victoria University Hospital, Cork, Ireland
| | - Lisa Kiely
- Department of Dermatology, South Infirmary Victoria University Hospital, Cork, Ireland
| | | | - Mary Bennett
- Department of Dermatology, South Infirmary Victoria University Hospital, Cork, Ireland
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Ma X, Huang J, Xue H, Wang H, Wang T, Chen Y, Long X, Wang X. Damage evaluation of craniofacial localized scleroderma using magnetic resonance imaging. Quant Imaging Med Surg 2024; 14:1891-1903. [PMID: 38415131 PMCID: PMC10895148 DOI: 10.21037/qims-23-980] [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: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
Background Localized scleroderma (LoS) is an autoimmune disease in which craniofacial lesions can cause severe facial deformities with brain involvement. Objective evaluation of craniofacial LoS is challenging. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be used as a damage assessment tool. This study aimed to analyze the tissue involvement of craniofacial LoS based on MRI and evaluate MRI for craniofacial LoS assessment. Methods This cross-sectional study included patients with craniofacial LoS from September 2021 to August 2022 in Peking Union Medical College Hospital. Patients who were clinically assessed in a stable phase were enrolled; patients with previous surgical treatment or contraindications to MRI were excluded. Participants underwent clinical, MRI, and ultrasound assessments. MRI was compared with ultrasound by correlation analysis and Bland-Altman analysis. The involvement of different tissues and different facial subunits was compared. The accumulated soft tissue atrophy index (ASTAI) was compared with clinical scores by correlation analysis. Results A total of 28 patients were included (13 female; mean age, 18 years). MRI showed a good correlation and agreement with ultrasound (r=0.916, P<0.001). In different facial subunits, a significant negative correlation between the forehead and chin was found (r=-0.593, P=0.001). The ASTAI correlated well with the facial LoS damage index (r=0.580, P=0.001) and the Peking Union Medical College LoS facial aesthetic index (PUMC LoSFAI) (r=0.921, P<0.001). A total of 38.6% of clinical scores were inaccurate based on MRI. Neurological changes were found in one patient. Conclusions MRI can reliably quantify damage in craniofacial LoS, and may serve as a useful and objective tool for overall craniofacial LoS evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuda Ma
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jiuzuo Huang
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Huadan Xue
- Department of Radiology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Hongwei Wang
- Department of Dermatology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Tianjiao Wang
- Department of Radiology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yu Chen
- Department of Radiology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiao Long
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaojun Wang
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
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Li Z, Wang HC, Chen J, Li Y, Yu N, Xiao Y, Du F, Wang X, Huang J, Long X. Fat Grafting Reduces Skin Hyperpigmentation of Localized Scleroderma Patients: A Prospective Self-controlled Study. Aesthetic Plast Surg 2023; 47:2084-2092. [PMID: 37592146 DOI: 10.1007/s00266-023-03543-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/23/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Localized scleroderma (LS) is characterized by skin fibrosis, hyperpigmentation and soft tissue atrophy. Fat grafting has been widely used to correct LS deformity. OBJECTIVE To investigate the effect of fat grafting on the skin pigmentation of LS lesions. METHODS A prospective self-controlled study was conducted. Skin melanin and erythema indexes were measured by Mexameter® MX18 before and 3 months after surgery. Differences between lesions and contralateral normal sites were compared to evaluate changes induced by fat grafting. Localized Scleroderma Cutaneous Assessment Tool and PUMC Localized Scleroderma Facial Aesthetic Index were used for clinical evaluation. RESULTS Fourteen frontal linear LS patients participated in the study. Before surgery, the melanin index of the lesions was significantly higher than the contralateral sites (p = 0.023), while the erythema indexes were not significantly different (p = 0.426). Three months post-operation, the melanin index of the lesions significantly decreased (p = 0.008). There was no significant change in the erythema index of the lesions before and after fat grafting (p = 0.322). The LoSCAT and PUMC LSFAI scores demonstrated improved disease condition and facial esthetics after surgery. CONCLUSION Fat grafting could alleviate skin hyperpigmentation and skin damage of LS lesions while having little effect on skin erythema and disease activity. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE III This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhujun Li
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shuaifuyuan No. 1, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100730, China
- State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Disease, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Hayson Chenyu Wang
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jie Chen
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shuaifuyuan No. 1, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100730, China
- State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Disease, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yunzhu Li
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shuaifuyuan No. 1, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100730, China
- State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Disease, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Nanze Yu
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shuaifuyuan No. 1, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100730, China
- State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Disease, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yiding Xiao
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shuaifuyuan No. 1, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100730, China
- State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Disease, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Fengzhou Du
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shuaifuyuan No. 1, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100730, China
- State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Disease, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaojun Wang
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shuaifuyuan No. 1, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100730, China
- State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Disease, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jiuzuo Huang
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shuaifuyuan No. 1, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100730, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Disease, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China.
| | - Xiao Long
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shuaifuyuan No. 1, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100730, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Disease, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China.
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Parra-Cares J, Wortsman X, Alfaro-Sepúlveda D, Mellado-Francisco G, Ramírez-Cornejo C, Vera-Kellet C. Color Doppler Ultrasound Assessment of Subclinical Activity With Scoring of Morphea. J Cutan Med Surg 2023; 27:454-460. [PMID: 37533149 DOI: 10.1177/12034754231191474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Detection of activity in morphea is paramount for adequately managing the disease. Subclinical ultrasound involvement on inactive lesions or healthy skin areas adjacent to morphea has not been described to date. OBJECTIVES The study aimed to detect morphea's subclinical activity by Color Doppler ultrasound not identified with the clinical scorings. MATERIALS & METHODS This cross-sectional retrospective study was done from January 2014 to July 2019 in patients with a clinicopathological diagnosis of morphea. The modified Localized Scleroderma Skin Severity Index (mLoSSI) and The Ultrasound Morphea Activity Score (US-MAS) were used to correlate clinical and subclinical activity. RESULTS A total of 36 patients met the inclusion criteria. 54% of cases presented subclinical activity in areas adjacent to the clinically active lesion, 23% in nonadjacent regions, and 23% demonstrated activity at a clinically inactive lesion site.100% of patients with morphea "en coup de sabre" involving the frontal region of the face concomitantly presented both subclinical activities of morphea on the frontal facial region and the scalp following the same axis.A positive relationship was observed between the degree of clinical activity measured by mLoSSI and US-MAS scoring.The main limitations of our study were the low number of patients and the inability to detect alterations < 0.1 mm. CONCLUSIONS Subclinical activity is frequent in morphea, can extend beyond the lesional areas, including apparently noninvolved adjacent and distant corporal regions, and can be detected by color Doppler ultrasound.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julio Parra-Cares
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Ximena Wortsman
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- Department of Imaging, Institute for Diagnostic Imaging and Research of the Skin and Soft Tissues, Santiago, Chile
| | | | - Gonzalo Mellado-Francisco
- Department of Dermatology, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Connective Tissue Diseases Unit, Santiago, Chile
| | - Cristian Ramírez-Cornejo
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Cristián Vera-Kellet
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- Department of Dermatology, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Connective Tissue Diseases Unit, Santiago, Chile
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11
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Foeldvari I, Marrani E. Systemic therapy in juvenile localized scleroderma. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2023; 19:1225-1238. [PMID: 37462119 DOI: 10.1080/1744666x.2023.2237685] [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: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Juvenile localized scleroderma (JLS) is a rare sclerosing disorder of childhood which can result in permanent morbidity and functional disability, if not effectively treated. Treatment should be started in the inflammatory phase before the development of any complication and/or damage. AREAS COVERED In this review, we will discuss how to assess disease activity and damage in JLS, and propose an escalation plan for systemic treatment, according to a treat-to-target concept. We will discuss the definition of inactive disease and how and when to discontinue medications. EXPERT OPINION Before starting treatment, it is extremely important to assess baseline disease activity for treatment response to be adequately checked. Moreover, the activity of the extra cutaneous involvement is an important part of the assessment. Patients should be treated in the 'therapeutic window,' before significant fibrosis results. Most patients should receive systemic treatments; in these patients, Methotrexate should be used as the first-line disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drug (DMARD). However, methotrexate intolerance or non-response is an issue, and these patients should be proposed a treatment escalation according to results of latest studies. Future research can develop better prognostic markers to help to guide our decision.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivan Foeldvari
- Hamburger Zentrum Für Kinder- Und Jugendrheumatologie, Hamburg, Germany
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12
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Tang JC, Zheng WY, Han GM, Liu SF, Yang B. Successful Treatment of Paediatric Morphea with Tofacitinib. Acta Derm Venereol 2023; 103:adv4805. [PMID: 37083093 PMCID: PMC10134061 DOI: 10.2340/actadv.v103.4805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Abstract is missing (Short communication)
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun-Chi Tang
- Department of Dermatology, Guangdong College of Clinical Dermatology, Anhui Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wen-Yue Zheng
- 2Department of Dermatology and Rheumatology, Dermatology Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Guang-Ming Han
- 2Department of Dermatology and Rheumatology, Dermatology Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shuang-Fei Liu
- Department of Dermatology, Guangdong College of Clinical Dermatology, Anhui Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Bin Yang
- Department of Dermatology, Guangdong College of Clinical Dermatology, Anhui Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
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13
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García-Romero MT, Tollefson M, Pope E, Brandling-Bennett HA, Paller AS, Keimig E, Arkin L, Wanat KA, Humphrey SR, Werth VP, Oza V, Jacobe H, Fett N, Cordoro KM, Medina-Vera I, Chiu YE. Development and Validation of the Morphea Activity Measure in Patients With Pediatric Morphea. JAMA Dermatol 2023; 159:299-307. [PMID: 36753150 PMCID: PMC9909574 DOI: 10.1001/jamadermatol.2022.6365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
Importance Morphea is an insidious inflammatory disorder of the skin and deeper tissues. Determining disease activity is challenging yet important to medical decision-making and patient outcomes. Objective To develop and validate a scoring tool, the Morphea Activity Measure (MAM), to evaluate morphea disease activity of any type or severity that is easy to use in clinical and research settings. Design, Setting, and Participants This pilot diagnostic study was conducted from September 9, 2019, to March 6, 2020, in 2 phases: development and validation. During the development phase, 14 morphea experts (dermatologists and pediatric dermatologists) used a Delphi consensus method to determine items that would be included in the MAM. The validation phase included 8 investigators who evaluated the tool in collaboration with 14 patients with pediatric morphea (recruited from a referral center [Medical College of Wisconsin]) during a 1-day in-person meeting on March 6, 2020. Main Outcomes and Measures During the development phase, online survey items were evaluated by experts in morphea using a Likert scale (score range, 0-10, with 0 indicating not important and 10 indicating very important); agreement was defined as a median score of 7.0 or higher, disagreement as a median score of 3.9 or lower, and no consensus as a median score of 4.0 to 6.9. During the validation phase, reliability (interrater and intrarater agreement using intraclass correlation coefficients), validity (using the content validity index and κ statistics as well as correlations with the modified Localized Scleroderma Severity Index and the Physician Global Assessment of Activity using Spearman ρ coefficients), and viability (using qualitative interviews of investigators who used the MAM tool) were evaluated. Descriptive statistics were used for quantitative variables. Data on race and ethnicity categories were collected but not analyzed because skin color was more relevant for the purposes of this study. Results Among 14 survey respondents during the development phase, 9 (64.3%) were pediatric dermatologists and 5 (35.7%) were dermatologists. After 2 rounds, a final tool was developed comprising 10 items that experts agreed were indicative of morphea activity (new lesion in the past 3 months, enlarging lesion in the past 3 months, linear lesion developing progressive atrophy in the past 3 months, erythema, violaceous rim or color, warmth to the touch, induration, white-yellow or waxy appearance, shiny white wrinkling, and body surface area). The validation phase was conducted with 14 patients (median age, 14.5 years [range, 8.0-18.0 years]; 8 [57.1%] female), 2 dermatologists, and 6 pediatric dermatologists. Interrater and intrarater agreement for MAM total scores was good, with intraclass correlation coefficients of 0.844 (95% CI, 0.681-0.942) for interrater agreement and 0.856 (95% CI, 0.791-0.901) for intrarater agreement. Correlations between the MAM and the modified Localized Scleroderma Severity Index (Spearman ρ = 0.747; P < .001) and the MAM and the Physician Global Assessment of Activity (Spearman ρ = 0.729; P < .001) were moderately strong. In qualitative interviews, evaluators agreed that the tool was easy to use, measured morphea disease activity at a single time point, and should be responsive to changes in morphea disease activity over multiple time points. Conclusions and Relevance In this study, the MAM was found to be a reliable, valid, and viable tool to measure pediatric morphea activity. Further testing to assess validity in adults and responsiveness to change is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Megha Tollefson
- Department of Pediatrics, Mayo Clinic and Mayo Clinic Children’s Center, Rochester, Minnesota
- Department of Dermatology, Mayo Clinic and Mayo Clinic Children’s Center, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Elena Pope
- Dermatology Section, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Heather A. Brandling-Bennett
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Pediatrics, Seattle Children’s Hospital, Seattle, Washington
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle
| | - Amy S. Paller
- Department of Dermatology, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
- Department of Dermatology, Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | | | - Lisa Arkin
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Madison
| | - Karolyn A. Wanat
- Department of Dermatology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee
| | | | - Victoria P. Werth
- Department of Dermatology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia
- Department of Dermatology, Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Vikash Oza
- Ronald O. Perelman Department of Dermatology, Grossman School of Medicine, New York University, New York
| | - Heidi Jacobe
- Department of Dermatology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas
| | - Nicole Fett
- Department of Dermatology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland
| | - Kelly M. Cordoro
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco
| | - Isabel Medina-Vera
- Department of Research Methodology, National Institute of Pediatrics, Mexico City
| | - Yvonne E. Chiu
- Department of Dermatology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee
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14
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Saracino AM, Nikpour M. Differentiating Activity From Damage-The Morphological Challenge of Morphea. JAMA Dermatol 2023; 159:249-251. [PMID: 36753123 DOI: 10.1001/jamadermatol.2022.6364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Amanda M Saracino
- Melbourne Dermatology Clinic, South Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Division of Medicine, Center for Rheumatology and Connective Tissue Disease, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mandana Nikpour
- Department of Rheumatology, the University of Melbourne at St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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15
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Papara C, De Luca DA, Bieber K, Vorobyev A, Ludwig RJ. Morphea: The 2023 update. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1108623. [PMID: 36860340 PMCID: PMC9969991 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1108623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Morphea, also known as localized scleroderma, is a chronic inflammatory connective tissue disorder with variable clinical presentations, that affects both adults and children. It is characterized by inflammation and fibrosis of the skin and underlying soft tissue, in certain cases even of the surrounding structures such as fascia, muscle, bone and central nervous system. While the etiology is still unknown, many factors may contribute to disease development, including genetic predisposition, vascular dysregulation, TH1/TH2 imbalance with chemokines and cytokines associated with interferon-γ and profibrotic pathways as well as certain environmental factors. Since the disease may progress to permanent cosmetic and functional sequelae, it is crucial to properly assess the disease activity and to initiate promptly the adequate treatment, thus preventing subsequent damage. The mainstay of treatment is based on corticosteroids and methotrexate. These, however, are limited by their toxicity, especially if applied long-term. Furthermore, corticosteroids and methotrexate often do not sufficiently control the disease and/or the frequent relapses of morphea. This review presents the current understanding of morphea by discussing its epidemiology, diagnosis, management and prognosis. In addition, it will describe recent pathogenetic findings, thus proposing potential novel targets for therapeutic development in morphea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristian Papara
- Department of Dermatology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany,Lübeck Institute of Experimental Dermatology (LIED), University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany,*Correspondence: Cristian Papara, ✉
| | - David A. De Luca
- Lübeck Institute of Experimental Dermatology (LIED), University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Katja Bieber
- Lübeck Institute of Experimental Dermatology (LIED), University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Artem Vorobyev
- Department of Dermatology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany,Lübeck Institute of Experimental Dermatology (LIED), University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Ralf J. Ludwig
- Department of Dermatology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany,Lübeck Institute of Experimental Dermatology (LIED), University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
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16
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Abduelmula A, Rankin BD, Riaz S, Ross N, Luca NJ, Prajapati VH. Management of morphea with systemic immunosuppressive therapies: An evidence-based review. J Am Acad Dermatol 2023; 88:467-469. [PMID: 35716832 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaad.2022.06.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Revised: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Abrahim Abduelmula
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Brian D Rankin
- Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Saba Riaz
- Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Nicholas Ross
- Western School of Business, Department of Business, Edmonton, Alberta
| | - Nadia J Luca
- Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Department of Pediatrics, Section of Pediatric Rheumatology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Vimal H Prajapati
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Community Pediatrics, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Dermatology Research Institute, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Skin Health & Wellness Centre, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Probity Medical Research, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Probity Medical Research, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
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17
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Abbas LF, Joseph AK, Day J, Cole NA, Hallac R, Derderian C, Jacobe HT. Measuring asymmetry in facial morphea via 3-dimensional stereophotogrammetry. J Am Acad Dermatol 2023; 88:101-108. [PMID: 35643243 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaad.2022.05.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Revised: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Objectively determining tissue loss in craniofacial morphea is challenging. However, 3-dimensional (3D) stereophotogrammetry is a noninvasive modality that may be a useful adjunct. OBJECTIVE To prospectively evaluate 3D stereophotogrammetry in the assessment of craniofacial linear morphea. METHODS Participants underwent clinical, quality-of-life, and 3D-stereophotogrammetry assessments. Traditional photographs and 3D-stereophotogrammetry images were rated as mild, moderate, or severe by 2 experts and 2 nonexperts. In addition, interrater and intrarater reliability (on delayed rescoring) were calculated. RESULTS Of 23 patients with craniofacial morphea, 3D stereophotogrammetry detected pathologic asymmetry in 14 (20.6%) patients. Providers rated patients as more severely affected when using 3D stereophotogrammetry versus when using traditional photographs (19% severe on 3D stereophotogrammetry vs 0% severe on traditional photographs, P = .004). Qualitative ratings of both traditional and 3D images showed high inter- and intrarater reliability between experts and nonexperts alike. Physicians' Global Assessment of Damage scores correlated with mouth asymmetry (P = .0021), cheek asymmetry (P = .04), and 3D-stereophotogrammetry ratings (median, mild: 27.5 vs moderate: 46.5 vs severe: 64, P = .0152). Lower face asymmetry correlated with worse quality-of-life scores (P = .013). LIMITATIONS Small sample size and cross-sectional design. CONCLUSION 3D stereophotogrammetry can reliably detect and quantify asymmetry in craniofacial morphea with greater sensitivity than that observed with traditional assessment alone. 3D stereophotogrammetry may be a useful adjunct to clinical examination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laila F Abbas
- Department of Dermatology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Adrienne K Joseph
- Department of Dermatology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Jennifer Day
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Naomi A Cole
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Rami Hallac
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Christopher Derderian
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Heidi T Jacobe
- Department of Dermatology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas.
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18
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Fan W, Obiakor B, Jacobson R, Haemel A, Gandelman J. Clinical and therapeutic course in head variants of linear morphea in adults: a retrospective review. Arch Dermatol Res 2022; 315:1161-1170. [DOI: 10.1007/s00403-022-02478-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
AbstractParry Romberg Syndrome (PRS) and en coup de sabre (ECDS) are head variants of linear morphea with functional and structural implications. This study describes the clinical course, autoimmune co-morbidities, complications, and treatment of adults with PRS/ECDS at a tertiary referral center. We retrospectively reviewed the records of all 34 adult patients with PRS/ECDS identified through billing code search and seen by dermatologists at our institution between 2015 and 2021. Eight patients (23.5%) had ECDS, 8 (23.5%) had PRS, and 18 (52.9%) had overlap. Twenty-six patients (76.5%) reported ocular, oral, and/or neurologic symptoms, and 8 (23.5%) had concomitant autoimmune/inflammatory conditions. Sixteen patients (47.1%) had a skin biopsy, and 25 (73.5%) had imaging. Forty-six MRIs were obtained, of which 6 (13.0%) reported intracranial findings and 25 (54.3%) reported disease-related connective tissue damage. Twenty-four patients (70.6%) underwent systemic treatment during their disease course per available clinical records. Seventeen patients (70.8%) had improved or stable disease upon treatment completion, with an average duration of 22.2 months. Ten patients (41.7%) reported recurrence of disease following the treatment course. To address changes to facial contour, 6 patients (17.6%) opted for procedural treatments. One patient (16.7%) experienced morphea reactivation following a filler injection performed off-immunosuppression. Compared to findings in children, our study suggests adults with PRS/ECDS are more likely to have oral and ocular complications but experience less severe neurologic symptoms. While systemic treatments appear beneficial in most adult patients with PRS/ECDS, disease may recur following discontinuation.
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Tognetti L, Marrocco C, Carraro A, Guerrini G, Mariotti GI, Cinotti E, Rubegni P. Clinical and laboratory characterization of patients with localized scleroderma and response to UVA-1 phototherapy: In vivo and in vitro skin models. PHOTODERMATOLOGY, PHOTOIMMUNOLOGY & PHOTOMEDICINE 2022; 38:531-540. [PMID: 35324032 PMCID: PMC9790552 DOI: 10.1111/phpp.12786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Revised: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE Localized scleroderma (LS) is a rare disease leading to progressive hardening and induration of the skin and subcutaneous tissues. LS is responsive to UVA-1 phototherapy, though its exact mechanism of action dermal fibrosis is yet to be fully elucidated. We aimed to investigate the molecular changes induced by UVA-1 rays in human primary fibroblasts cultures. METHODS A total of 16 LS patients were treated with medium-dose UVA-1 phototherapy. At baseline, during and after therapy, Localized Scleroderma Assessment Tool, Dermatology Life Quality Index and lesions' staging and mapping were performed along with high-frequency ultrasound (HFUS) examination for dermal thickness assessment. Gene expression analysis for 23 mRNA transcripts, in vitro UVA-1 irradiation and viability tests were realized on lesional fibroblasts' primary cultures, before and 3 months after therapy. RESULTS The dermal thickness, the LoSCAT and the DLQI progressively decreased starting from the last phototherapy session up to the 6 and 9 month follow-ups (-57% and -60%, respectively). Molecular gene analysis (rt-PCR) revealed that UVA-1 phototherapy exerts multiple effects: the activation of specific anti-fibrotic pathways (e.g., overexpression of CTHRC1 and metalloproteases 1, 2, 7, 8, 9, 12, suppression of TIMP-1), the downregulation of peculiar pro-fibrotic pathways (e.g., downregulation of TGF-ß, TGF-ßrII, Grb2, SMAD 2/3, TNRSF12A, CTGF) through a significant overexpression of IL-1ß; the stabilization of collagen synthesis acting on genes COL1A1, COL3A1, COL8A1, COL10A1, COL12A1. CONCLUSION UVA-1 phototherapy adds significant benefits in local tissue remodeling, rebalancing the alteration between pro-fibrotic and anti-fibrotic pathways; these changes can be well monitored by HFUS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Tognetti
- Dermatology Unit and Skin Bank Unit, Department of Clinical Surgical and Neuro‐sciencesUniversity of SienaSienaItaly
| | - Camilla Marrocco
- Dermatology Unit and Skin Bank Unit, Department of Clinical Surgical and Neuro‐sciencesUniversity of SienaSienaItaly
| | - Andrea Carraro
- Dermatology Unit and Skin Bank Unit, Department of Clinical Surgical and Neuro‐sciencesUniversity of SienaSienaItaly
| | - Giuditta Guerrini
- Laboratory of Molecular Microbiology and Biotechnology, Department of Medical BiotechnologiesUniversity of SienaSienaItaly
| | - GIancarlo Mariotti
- Dermatology Unit and Skin Bank Unit, Department of Clinical Surgical and Neuro‐sciencesUniversity of SienaSienaItaly
| | - Elisa Cinotti
- Dermatology Unit and Skin Bank Unit, Department of Clinical Surgical and Neuro‐sciencesUniversity of SienaSienaItaly
| | - Pietro Rubegni
- Dermatology Unit and Skin Bank Unit, Department of Clinical Surgical and Neuro‐sciencesUniversity of SienaSienaItaly
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20
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Walker AM, Bermas BL, Jacobe HT. Morphea disease activity during pregnancy: A case series. J Dermatol 2022; 49:1278-1283. [DOI: 10.1111/1346-8138.16572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Revised: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Amanda M. Walker
- Department of Dermatology University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center Dallas Texas USA
| | - Bonnie L. Bermas
- Department of Rheumatology University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center Dallas Texas USA
| | - Heidi T. Jacobe
- Department of Dermatology University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center Dallas Texas USA
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21
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Speeckaert R, Belpaire A, Herbelet S, Speeckaert MM, van Geel N. The Meaning and Reliability of Minimal Important Differences (MIDs) for Clinician-Reported Outcome Measures (ClinROMs) in Dermatology-A Scoping Review. J Pers Med 2022; 12:jpm12071167. [PMID: 35887664 PMCID: PMC9321211 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12071167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2022] [Revised: 07/16/2022] [Accepted: 07/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Clinician-reported outcome measures (ClinROMs) are frequently used in clinical trials and daily practice to evaluate the disease status and evolution of skin disorders. The minimal important difference (MID) represents the smallest difference that decreases the disease impact enough to make a treatment change worthwhile for patients. As no clear guidance exists on the preferred method to calculate MIDs for ClinROMs, we evaluated how the published values for different skin disorders should be interpreted. Methods: A systematic search was performed for MIDs of ClinROMs that focus on skin disorders and/or symptoms. The results of the questions in the credibility instrument for MIDs of Devji et al., 2020 were analyzed to gain insights into the meaning of these MIDs. Results: 29 MIDs were identified. The most common skin diseases were atopic dermatitis/eczema, followed by bullous disorders and psoriasis. A minimal important difference from the patients’ perspective was determined in 31% of the cases. However, in 41.4% of the cases, it concerned a substantial rather than a minimal difference in disease severity rated by physicians. Over half (55.1%) of the studies contained an inadequate number of patients (n < 150). MID values increased substantially in patients with severe compared to mild disease. Conclusions: MIDs of ClinROMs for skin disorders should be carefully interpreted due to the substantial differences in methodology between the studies. There is an urgent need for a consensus method to report reliable MIDs. Otherwise, this lack of uniformity could not only affect the design and conclusion of clinical trials but also skew treatment decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reinhart Speeckaert
- Department of Dermatology, Ghent University Hospital, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; (A.B.); (S.H.); (N.v.G.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Arno Belpaire
- Department of Dermatology, Ghent University Hospital, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; (A.B.); (S.H.); (N.v.G.)
| | - Sandrine Herbelet
- Department of Dermatology, Ghent University Hospital, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; (A.B.); (S.H.); (N.v.G.)
| | | | - Nanja van Geel
- Department of Dermatology, Ghent University Hospital, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; (A.B.); (S.H.); (N.v.G.)
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22
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Ganske IM, Cappitelli AT, Langa OC, Min M, Torok KS, Dedeoglu F, Vleugels RA. Pilot Use of 3D Photography to Aid Clinical Decision Making in Craniofacial Morphea. JAAD Case Rep 2022; 25:100-103. [PMID: 35794965 PMCID: PMC9251559 DOI: 10.1016/j.jdcr.2022.05.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ingrid M. Ganske
- Department of Plastic and Oral Surgery, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
- Correspondence to: Ingrid M. Ganske, MD, MPA, Assistant Professor of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Department of Plastic and Oral Surgery, Boston Children’s Hospital, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA, 02115.
| | - Alex T. Cappitelli
- Department of Plastic and Oral Surgery, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Olivia C. Langa
- Department of Plastic and Oral Surgery, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Michelle Min
- Department of Dermatology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Dermatology, University of California Irvine School of Medicine, Irvine, California
| | - Kathryn S. Torok
- Department of Pediatrics, Rheumatology Division, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Children’s Hospital, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Fatma Dedeoglu
- Rheumatology Program, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Ruth Ann Vleugels
- Department of Dermatology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
- Dermatology Program, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
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Chuprin J, McCormack L, Richmond JM, Rashighi M. Evaluating the use of JAK inhibitors in inflammatory connective tissue diseases in pediatric patients: an update. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2022; 18:263-272. [PMID: 35209781 DOI: 10.1080/1744666x.2022.2047022] [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] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Connective tissue diseases (CTDs) are a category of conditions that affect tissues that support and provide structure to the body. These diseases include rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, dermatomyositis, and sclerosing diseases. CTDs can be caused by dysregulation of inflammatory pathways, specifically an upregulation of interferons and JAK/STAT pathway activation. AREAS COVERED While CTDs have historically been treated with broadly immunosuppressant medications such as corticosteroids and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDS), newer and more targeted immunomodulating medications called Janus kinase inhibitors (JAKi), have emerged as potential treatments. EXPERT OPINION While most studies regarding JAKi for CTDs have focused on adult populations, pediatric patients with CTDs may also benefit from JAKi therapy. Moreover, the JAK/STAT inhibitor tofacitinib has been approved by the FDA for the treatment of active polyarticular course juvenile idiopathic arthritis. In this review, we have summarized what has been published on the use of JAKi for various pediatric CTDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane Chuprin
- Department of Dermatology and Connective Tissue Disease Clinic and Research Center, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School
| | - Lindsay McCormack
- Department of Dermatology and Connective Tissue Disease Clinic and Research Center, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School
| | - Jillian M Richmond
- Department of Dermatology and Connective Tissue Disease Clinic and Research Center, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School.,Connective Tissue Disease Clinic and Research Center, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School
| | - Mehdi Rashighi
- Department of Dermatology and Connective Tissue Disease Clinic and Research Center, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School.,Connective Tissue Disease Clinic and Research Center, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School
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Desai Y, Jaki T, Beresford MW, Burnett T, Eleftheriou D, Jacobe H, Leone V, Li S, Mozgunov P, Ramanan AV, Torok KS, Anderson ME, Anton J, Avcin T, Felton J, Foeldvari I, Laguda B, McErlane F, Shaw L, Zulian F, Pain CE. Prior elicitation of the efficacy and tolerability of Methotrexate and Mycophenolate Mofetil in Juvenile Localised Scleroderma. AMRC OPEN RESEARCH 2021; 3:20. [PMID: 38708070 PMCID: PMC11064983 DOI: 10.12688/amrcopenres.13008.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
Background Evidence is lacking for safe and effective treatments for juvenile localised scleroderma (JLS). Methotrexate (MTX) is commonly used first line and mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) second line, despite a limited evidence base. A head to head trial of these two medications would provide data on relative efficacy and tolerability. However, a frequentist approach is difficult to deliver in JLS, because of the numbers needed to sufficiently power a trial. A Bayesian approach could be considered. Methods An international consensus meeting was convened including an elicitation exercise where opinion was sought on the relative efficacy and tolerability of MTX compared to MMF to produce prior distributions for a future Bayesian trial. Secondary aims were to achieve consensus agreement on critical aspects of a future trial. Results An international group of 12 clinical experts participated. Opinion suggested superior efficacy and tolerability of MMF compared to MTX; where most likely value of efficacy of MMF was 0.70 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.34-0.90) and of MTX was 0.68 (95% CI 0.41-0.8). The most likely value of tolerability of MMF was 0.77 (95% CI 0.3-0.94) and of MTX was 0.62 (95% CI 0.32-0.84). The wider CI for MMF highlights that experts were less sure about relative efficacy and tolerability of MMF compared to MTX. Despite using a Bayesian approach, power calculations still produced a total sample size of 240 participants, reflecting the uncertainty amongst experts about the performance of MMF. Conclusions Key factors have been defined regarding the design of a future Bayesian approach clinical trial including elicitation of prior opinion of the efficacy and tolerability of MTX and MMF in JLS. Combining further efficacy data on MTX and MMF with prior opinion could potentially reduce the pre-trial uncertainty so that, when combined with smaller trial sample sizes a compelling evidence base is available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasin Desai
- MPS Research Unit, Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Lancaster University, Lancaster, LA1 4YF, UK
| | - Thomas Jaki
- MPS Research Unit, Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Lancaster University, Lancaster, LA1 4YF, UK
- MRC Biostatistics Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 0SR, UK
| | - Michael W Beresford
- Department of Paediatric Rheumatology, Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, L12 2AP, UK
- Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, L69 3BX, UK
| | - Thomas Burnett
- MPS Research Unit, Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Lancaster University, Lancaster, LA1 4YF, UK
| | - Despina Eleftheriou
- University College London Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, WC1N 1EH, UK
- Department of Paediatric Rheumatology, Great Ormond St Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, WC1N 3JH, UK
| | - Heidi Jacobe
- UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Valentina Leone
- Paediatric Rheumatology Department, Leeds Children Hospital (Leeds Teaching Hospitals) and University of Leeds, Leeds, LS1 3EX, UK
| | - Suzanne Li
- Department of Pediatrics, Joseph M. Sanzari Children’s Hospital, Hackensack University Medical Center & Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, Hackensack, New Jersey, NJ 07601, USA
| | - Pavel Mozgunov
- MPS Research Unit, Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Lancaster University, Lancaster, LA1 4YF, UK
| | - Athimalaipet V Ramanan
- University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust & Translational Health Sciences, Bristol, BS1 3NU, UK
| | - Kathryn S Torok
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
| | - Marina E Anderson
- Department of Rheumatology, Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, L9 7AL, UK
- Lancaster Medical School, Lancaster University, Lancaster, LA1 4YF, UK
| | - Jordi Anton
- Pediatric Rheumatology, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Barcelona, 08007, UK
| | - Tadej Avcin
- Department of Allergology, Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Children's Hospital, University Medical Centre, Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Jessie Felton
- Department of Dermatology, Brighton and Sussex University Hospitals & Royal Alexandra Children’s Hospital, Brighton, BN2 1DH, UK
| | - Ivan Foeldvari
- Hamburg Centre for Pediatric and Adolescence Rheumatology, Hamburg, 22081 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Bisola Laguda
- Department of Paediatric Dermatology, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London, SW10 9NH, UK
| | - Flora McErlane
- Department of Paediatric Rheumatology, Great North Children's Hospital, Newcastle, NE1 4LP, UK
| | - Lindsay Shaw
- Department of Paediatric Rheumatology, Great Ormond St Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, WC1N 3JH, UK
- University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust & Translational Health Sciences, Bristol, BS1 3NU, UK
| | - Francesco Zulian
- Department of Woman's and Child's Health, University of Padova, Padua, 35122 Padua, Italy
| | - Clare E Pain
- Department of Paediatric Rheumatology, Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, L12 2AP, UK
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Sink JR, Chiu YE. Pediatric morphea state-of-the-art literature review: Reframing morphea as a systemic disease. Pediatr Dermatol 2021; 38:1020-1031. [PMID: 34272748 DOI: 10.1111/pde.14688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Pediatric morphea is an inflammatory, fibrosing dermatologic disorder. Although morphea may be localized to the skin and subcutaneous tissues, differentiating it from systemic sclerosis, there is increasing evidence that morphea is a manifestation of a systemic inflammatory process, with the potential to involve many organ systems. Given the potential risk for irreversible sequelae, pediatric morphea should be treated early and aggressively. Long-term disease monitoring is essential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacquelyn R Sink
- Department of Dermatology, Northwestern Medicine Regional Medical Group, Winfield, IL, USA
| | - Yvonne E Chiu
- Departments of Dermatology (Section of Pediatric Dermatology) and Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
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Coit P, Schollaert KL, Mirizio EM, Torok KS, Sawalha AH. DNA methylation patterns in juvenile systemic sclerosis and localized scleroderma. Clin Immunol 2021; 228:108756. [PMID: 33992755 DOI: 10.1016/j.clim.2021.108756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Revised: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Scleroderma refers to a group of chronic fibrotic immune-mediated diseases of unknown etiology. Characterizing epigenetic changes in childhood-onset scleroderma, systemic sclerosis or localized scleroderma, has not been previously performed. The aim of this study was to assess DNA methylation differences and similarities between juvenile systemic sclerosis (jSSc) and juvenile localized scleroderma (jLS) compared to matched healthy controls. Genome-wide DNA methylation changes in peripheral blood mononuclear cell samples were assessed using the MethylationEPIC array followed by bioinformatic analysis and limited functional assessment. We identified a total of 105 and 144 differentially methylated sites compared to healthy controls in jSSc and jLS, respectively. The majority of differentially methylated sites and genes represented were unique to either jSSc or jLS suggesting a different underlying epigenetic pattern in both diseases. Among shared differentially methylated genes, methylation levels in a CpG site in FGFR2 can distinguish between LS and healthy PBMCs with a high accuracy. Canonical pathway analysis revealed that inflammatory pathways were enriched in genes differentially methylated in jSSc, including STAT3, NF-κB, and IL-15 pathways. In contrast, the HIPPO signaling pathway was enriched in jLS. Our data also suggest a potential role for NOTCH3 in both jSSc and jLS, and revealed a number of transcription factors unique to each of the two diseases. In summary, our data revealed important insights into jSSc and jLS and suggest a potentially novel epigenetic diagnostic biomarker for LS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Coit
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Graduate Program in Immunology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Kaila L Schollaert
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Emily M Mirizio
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Kathryn S Torok
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Clinical and Translational Science Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; University of Pittsburgh Systemic Sclerosis Center of Research Translation, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Amr H Sawalha
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Lupus Center of Excellence, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
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Oh YH, Lee SH. Frontal Linear Scleroderma (en coup de sabre): A Case Report. Cleft Palate Craniofac J 2021; 59:538-542. [PMID: 33966485 DOI: 10.1177/10556656211013168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
En coup de sabre is an unusual variant of localized scleroderma characterized by its distinct location involving the frontoparietal region of the forehead and scalp. The authors describe a rare case of en coup de sabre in a 3-year-old boy whose disease onset was at 12 months of age. This article presents the clinical manifestations of continuous changes in the lesion photographed over time. The clinical presentation, laboratory results, and radiological findings together with a brief discussion of the management of the disease are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yo Han Oh
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Ilsan Paik Hospital, Inje University College of Medicine, Goyang-si, Republic of Korea
| | - Soo Hyang Lee
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Ilsan Paik Hospital, Inje University College of Medicine, Goyang-si, Republic of Korea
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Schutt C, Mirizio E, Salgado C, Reyes-Mugica M, Wang X, Chen W, Grunwaldt L, Schollaert KL, Torok KS. Transcriptomic Evaluation of Juvenile Localized Scleroderma Skin With Histologic and Clinical Correlation. Arthritis Rheumatol 2021; 73:1921-1930. [PMID: 33844442 DOI: 10.1002/art.41758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2020] [Accepted: 04/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Juvenile localized scleroderma (LS) is an autoimmune disease of the skin whose pathogenesis is not well understood due to the rarity of the disease. This study was undertaken to determine the skin transcriptome in skin biopsy tissue from children with juvenile LS compared to pediatric healthy controls, with identification of significant molecular targets using RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq). In this study, differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were assessed for correlations with histopathologic and clinical features in children with juvenile LS, and were used to group the children into distinct genetic clusters based on immunophenotype. METHODS RNA-Seq was performed on sections of paraffin-embedded skin tissue obtained from 28 children with juvenile LS and 10 pediatric healthy controls. RNA-Seq was carried out using an Illumina HTS TruSeq RNA Access library prep kit, with data aligned using STAR and data analysis using a DESeq2 platform. A standardized histologic scoring system was used to score skin sections for the severity of inflammation and levels of collagen deposition. Histologic scoring was completed by 2 pathologists who were blinded with regard to the status of each sample. Spearman's rank correlation coefficients were used to assess significant correlations between DEG expression profiles and skin histologic findings in patients with juvenile LS. RESULTS We identified 589 significant DEGs in children with juvenile LS as compared to healthy controls. Hierarchical clustering was used to demonstrate 3 distinct juvenile LS immunophenotype clusters. The histologic scores of skin inflammation (based on numbers and categories of inflammatory cell infiltrates) were significantly correlated with the expression levels of HLA-DPB1, HLA-DQA2, HLA-DRA, and STAT1 genes (rs > 0.5, P < 0.01). Collagen thickness correlated with the expression levels of collagen organization genes as well as with genes found to be correlated with the severity of inflammation, including genes for major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I, MHC class II, and interferon-γ signaling. CONCLUSION Among children with juvenile LS, 3 distinct genetic signatures, or clusters, were identified. In one cluster, inflammation-related pathways were up-regulated, corresponding to the histologic skin inflammation score. In the second cluster, fibrosis-related pathways were up-regulated. In the third cluster, gene expression in the skin corresponded to the patterns seen in healthy controls. Up-regulation of HLA class II genes was observed within the first cluster (characterized by predominant inflammation), a feature that has also been observed in the peripheral blood of patients with morphea and in the skin of patients with systemic sclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Schutt
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and University of Rochester MedicalCenter and Golisano Children's Hospital, Rochester, New York
| | | | - Claudia Salgado
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Miguel Reyes-Mugica
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Xinjun Wang
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Wei Chen
- University of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Lorelei Grunwaldt
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | | | - Kathryn S Torok
- University of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
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Cardones AR, Hall RP, Sullivan KM, Hooten J, Lee SY, Liu B, Green CL, Chao NJ, Rowe Nichols K, Bañez LL, Shah A, Leung N, Palmeri ML. Quantifying Skin Stiffness in Graft-Versus-Host Disease, Morphea, and Systemic Sclerosis Using Acoustic Radiation Force Impulse Imaging and Shear Wave Elastography. J Invest Dermatol 2021; 141:924-927.e2. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2020.07.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2019] [Revised: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Weibel L. Diagnosis and management of morphoea in children: an overview. Clin Exp Dermatol 2021; 46:487-494. [PMID: 33751628 DOI: 10.1111/ced.14562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Revised: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Paediatric morphoea (localized scleroderma) is an inflammatory sclerosing disorder of the skin and subcutis associated with tissue atrophy. It is thought that the disease develops on the background of genetic predisposition (e.g. mosaicism for the common linear variant) initiated by various trigger factors, and that detected autoantibodies and inflammatory cytokines represent secondary epiphenomena. In contrast to the common belief that morphoea is a benign self-limiting disorder, long-term data indicate that its chronicity, relapsing nature and extracutaneous complications lead to significant morbidity, particularly when the disease starts in early childhood. Early recognition may be challenging, and the most important clinical clues are band-like distribution, atrophy of underlying tissue, skin sclerosis, and localized loss of body/scalp hair, eyelashes or eyebrows. Extracutaneous manifestations occur in up to 20% of patients, with arthritis/arthralgia and neurological symptoms being most frequently observed, followed by ophthalmological complications such as uveitis. Corticosteroids and methotrexate are highly effective as first-line therapy in morphoea, leading to partial reversal of skin manifestations. However, the development of atrophy is not sufficiently prevented by standard therapy. There is a relapse rate of 25%-48% within the first years after stopping treatment, thus long-term follow-up is warranted. Mycophenolate mofetil seems to be a beneficial second-line therapy, and a new drug, abatacept, also seems to be a promising and well-tolerated second-line treatment option. Additionally, autologous fat injections are beneficial and may be used as an adjunct to ongoing therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Weibel
- Paediatric Skin Center, Paediatric Dermatology Department, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Abbas L, Joseph A, Kunzler E, Jacobe HT. Morphea: progress to date and the road ahead. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2021; 9:437. [PMID: 33842658 PMCID: PMC8033330 DOI: 10.21037/atm-20-6222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Morphea is a rare autoimmune condition causing inflammation and sclerosis of the skin and underlying soft tissue. It is characterized by periods of activity (inflammation admixed with fibrosis), ultimately resulting in permanent damage (pigment change and tissue loss). Damage resulting from unchecked activity can lead to devastating, permanent cosmetic and functional sequelae including hair loss; cutaneous, soft tissue and bony atrophy; joint contractures; and growth restriction of the affected body site in children. This makes the early identification of activity and initiation of appropriate treatment crucial to limiting damage in morphea. To this end, recent investigative work has focused on validation of clinical, biomarker, imaging, and histologic outcomes aimed at accurately quantifying activity and damage. Despite promising results, further work is needed to better validate these measures before they can be used in the clinic and research settings. Although there has been recent approval of less toxic, targeted therapies for many inflammatory skin conditions, none have been systematically investigated in morphea. The mainstays of treatment for active morphea are corticosteroids and methotrexate. These are often limited by substantial toxicity. The paucity of new treatments for morphea is the result of a lack of studies examining its pathogenesis, with many reviews extrapolating from research in systemic sclerosis. Recent studies have demonstrated the role of dysregulated immune and fibrotic pathways in the pathogenesis of morphea, particularly interferon (IFN) gamma related pathways. Active morphea lesions have been found to display an inflammatory morphea signature with CXCR3 receptor ligands, as well as a distinct fibrotic signature reflecting fibroblast activation and collagen production. CXCL9 and 10 have been associated with increased measures of disease activity. While immune dysfunction is thought to play the primary role in morphea pathogenesis, there are other factors that may also contribute, including genetic predisposition, environmental factors, and vascular dysregulation. There remains an essential need for further research to elucidate the pathogenesis of morphea and the mode of action of dysregulated upstream and downstream immune and fibrotic pathways. These studies will allow for the discovery of novel biomarkers and targets for therapeutic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laila Abbas
- Department of Dermatology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Adrienne Joseph
- Department of Dermatology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Elaine Kunzler
- Department of Dermatology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Heidi T Jacobe
- Department of Dermatology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
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Glaser D, Torok KS. Evaluation and Treatment of Pediatric Localized Scleroderma: Pearls and Updates. CURRENT TREATMENT OPTIONS IN RHEUMATOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s40674-021-00170-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Saracino AM, George C, Nihtyanova SI, Denton CP. Comparing paediatric- and adult-onset linear morphoea in a large tertiary-referral scleroderma centre. JOURNAL OF SCLERODERMA AND RELATED DISORDERS 2021; 6:102-108. [PMID: 35382251 PMCID: PMC8922636 DOI: 10.1177/2397198320925684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2019] [Accepted: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 08/10/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Linear morphoea is a severe morphoea subtype associated with extracutaneous manifestations, potentially permanent disfigurement and functional impairment. Linear morphoea is more prevalent in paediatric patients, and knowledge of disease in adults is limited. The objective of this study was to compare paediatric- and adult-onset linear morphoea, in an exclusively adult population. METHODOLOGY This was a retrospective cohort study of adult patients with linear morphoea seen over a 3-year period at a single-site adult tertiary-referral Connective Tissue Disease centre. Clinical markers of disease severity and course, including anatomical distribution, extracutaneous manifestations, cutaneous symptoms, associated autoimmunity, inflammatory blood parameters, Dermatology Life Quality Index scores, treatment requirements and modified Localised Scleroderma Activity Tool were assessed and compared in paediatric- and adult-onset linear morphoea. RESULTS Of 298 patients with morphoea seen during the study period, 135 had linear morphoea and 133 were included in the study. Most were female (78.9%), the mean age was 36.5 years and almost half (43.6%) had adult-onset disease. Disease was similarly severe between groups with regard to anatomical distribution, cutaneous symptoms (n = 89, 66.9%), extracutaneous manifestations (n = 76, 57.1%), antinuclear antibody-positivity (n = 40, 40.4%), raised erythrocyte sedimentation rate (n = 27, 25.0%) and associated autoimmune diagnoses (n = 15, 11.3%). Prescribed treatments were similar between groups; 73.7% receiving methotrexate and almost one-third (32.3%) requiring more than one steroid-sparing agent. Those with paediatric-onset had more disease-related damage, with a mean modified Localised Scleroderma Skin Damage Index score of 19.5 (95% confidence interval: 17.0-22.0) versus 8.1 (95% confidence interval: 4.4-11.8; p < 0.001). Significantly more patients with adult-onset linear morphoea had quiescent disease (p = 0.0332), and even after correcting for disease duration, paediatric-onset patients still had 2.6 times greater odds of active disease (odds ratio = 2.59, 95% confidence interval: 0.9-7.6; p = 0.083). CONCLUSION Linear morphoea in adults can be a severe disease with extracutaneous, autoimmune and systemic features. Adults with paediatric-onset disease appear to have more severe cumulative damage, greater functional impairment and ongoing disease activity. This patient subgroup may require particularly close monitoring and more aggressive therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda M Saracino
- Centre for Rheumatology and Connective Tissue Diseases, Division of Medicine, University College London, London, UK
| | - Christina George
- Department of Dermatology, Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Svetlana I Nihtyanova
- Centre for Rheumatology and Connective Tissue Diseases, Division of Medicine, University College London, London, UK
| | - Christopher P Denton
- Centre for Rheumatology and Connective Tissue Diseases, Division of Medicine, University College London, London, UK
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Mirizio E, Liu C, Yan Q, Waltermire J, Mandel R, Schollaert KL, Konnikova L, Wang X, Chen W, Torok KS. Genetic Signatures From RNA Sequencing of Pediatric Localized Scleroderma Skin. Front Pediatr 2021; 9:669116. [PMID: 34164359 PMCID: PMC8215272 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2021.669116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to explore the skin transcriptional profile in pediatric localized scleroderma (LS) to provide a better understanding of the altered immune and fibrotic pathways promoting disease. LS is a progressive disease of the skin and underlying tissue that causes significant functional disability and disfigurement, especially in developing children. RNA sequencing (RNAseq) technology allows for improved understanding of relevant cellular expression through transcriptome analysis of phases during LS disease progression (more active/inflammatory vs. inactive/fibrotic) and also permits the use of RNA extracted from existing paraffin-embedded skin tissue, which is important in pediatrics. A strong correlation was observed between the comparison of genes expressed between fresh (RNAlater) and paraffinized skin in healthy and LS subjects, supporting the use of paraffinized tissue. LS gene signatures compared to healthy controls showed a distinct expression of an inflammatory response gene signature (IRGS) composed of IFNγ-, IFNα-, and TNFα-associated genes. GSEA© enrichment analysis showed that the IRGS, including interferon-inducible chemokines such as CXCL9, CXCL10, CXCL11, and IFNγ itself, was more highly expressed in LS patients with more inflammatory lesions. The use of paraffinized skin for sequencing was proven to be an effective substitute for fresh skin by comparing gene expression profiles. The prevalence of the IFNγ signature in the lesion biopsies of active LS patients indicates that these genes reflect clinical activity parameters and may be the promoters of early, inflammatory disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Mirizio
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Christopher Liu
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Qi Yan
- Division of Pediatric Pulmonary Medicine, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Julia Waltermire
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Roosha Mandel
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Kaila L Schollaert
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Liza Konnikova
- Division of Neonatal Medicine, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Xinjun Wang
- Division of Pediatric Pulmonary Medicine, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Wei Chen
- Division of Pediatric Pulmonary Medicine, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Kathryn S Torok
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States.,Clinical and Translational Science Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
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O'Brien JC, Nymeyer H, Green A, Jacobe HT. Changes in Disease Activity and Damage Over Time in Patients With Morphea. JAMA Dermatol 2020; 156:513-520. [PMID: 32236501 PMCID: PMC7113826 DOI: 10.1001/jamadermatol.2020.0034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Importance Prospective studies of the disease course in patients with morphea are lacking, particularly those comparing adults and children. Objective To investigate the disease course in patients with morphea treated with standard-of-care therapy using validated clinical outcome measures. Design, Setting, and Participants Prospective cohort study of 130 adults and children from the Morphea in Adults and Children cohort with at least 2 years of clinical follow-up and Localized Scleroderma Cutaneous Assessment Tool scores recorded at each study visit. Study patients were seen at a tertiary referral center (UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas) from November 1, 2008, through April 1, 2016. The dates of analysis were May 2016 through July 2019. Exposures All patients received standard-of-care therapy. Main Outcomes and Measures Patterns in disease activity and recurrence were examined. The time to recurrence of morphea disease activity from the first visit with inactive disease was assessed using survival analysis with the log-rank test to compare differences between morphea subtypes. Results In total, 130 adults and children (663 study visits) were included in this study. The mean (SD) age of patients was 34.4 (23.8) years, and 101 of 130 (78%) were female. The mean (SD) follow-up was 4.3 (1.7) years. Fifty patients had at least 5 years of follow-up. Most patients were white individuals (96 of 130 [74%]) and had linear subtype (72 of 130 [55%]) or generalized subtype (40 of 130 [31%]). Overall, 13 of 30 (43%) with generalized subtype had recurrence of disease activity compared with 14 of 66 (21%) with linear subtype (hazard ratio, 3.28; 95% CI, 1.38-7.79). The median (interquartile range) time to first recurrence of disease activity after initial resolution of disease activity was 1.1 (0.8-1.9) years for generalized subtype and 2.3 (1.0-3.3) years for linear subtype. Of the 50 patients followed up for at least 5 years, 18 (36%) had recurrence of disease activity. Conclusions and Relevance Disease activity appeared to improve in most patients with morphea over 6 to 12 months using previously published treatment plans, underscoring their effectiveness. Sclerosis improved more slowly (over 2-5 years), often after discontinuation of treatment, but atrophy increased slightly as sclerosis subsided. Standard-of-care therapy appears to improve disease activity, which allows sclerosis to improve, and provides relative stability of other features of disease damage. A substantial number of patients, particularly those with generalized subtype, have a relapsing-remitting course over many years. Patients with morphea should be monitored for recurrent disease activity over extended periods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jack C O'Brien
- Department of Dermatology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Hugh Nymeyer
- Department of Dermatology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Allison Green
- Department of Dermatology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Heidi T Jacobe
- Department of Dermatology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
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Pérez M, Zuccaro J, Mohanta A, Tijerin M, Laxer R, Pope E, Doria AS. Feasibility of Using Elastography Ultrasound in Pediatric Localized Scleroderma (Morphea). ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE & BIOLOGY 2020; 46:3218-3227. [PMID: 32951932 DOI: 10.1016/j.ultrasmedbio.2020.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2019] [Revised: 08/04/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Assessment and monitoring of inflammation and tissue damage is crucial in localized scleroderma (LS), but validated diagnostic tools are lacking. We aimed to determine the feasibility of using acoustic radiation force imaging ultrasound elastography in the assessment of pediatric-onset LS lesions. Conventional ultrasound and shear-wave elastography (SWE) imaging were used to characterize changes in pre-assigned LS lesions in 13 prospectively recruited participants. Contralateral sites were used as controls. Mean SWE values were compared. LS lesions were significantly stiffer than control sites in the dermis and the hypodermis using both parametric and non-parametric tests, before and after skin-thickness normalization. We show that SWE imaging is a feasible way to discriminate between normal skin and LS lesions in the pediatric population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Pérez
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Medical Imaging, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Jennifer Zuccaro
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Institute of Medical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Arun Mohanta
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Marta Tijerin
- Radiology Department, Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias, Oviedo, Spain
| | - Ronald Laxer
- Division of Rheumatology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Section of Dermatology, Division of Pediatric Medicine, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Research Institute, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Elena Pope
- Section of Dermatology, Division of Pediatric Medicine, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Research Institute, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Pediatrics, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andrea S Doria
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Medical Imaging, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Research Institute, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Abatacept in the treatment of localized scleroderma: A pediatric case series and systematic literature review. Semin Arthritis Rheum 2020; 50:645-656. [DOI: 10.1016/j.semarthrit.2020.03.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2019] [Revised: 03/25/2020] [Accepted: 03/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Kaushik A, Mahajan R, De D, Handa S. Paediatric morphoea: a holistic review. Part 2: diagnosis, measures of disease activity, management and natural history. Clin Exp Dermatol 2020; 45:679-684. [PMID: 32449205 DOI: 10.1111/ced.14236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Paediatric morphoea is a debilitating fibrosing disorder of uncertain aetiology, affecting the skin and subcutaneous tissues. Defining optimum management strategies in paediatric morphoea remains an ongoing challenge, owing to the varied presentations and a relative paucity of paediatric-specific studies. We performed a literature search on PubMed, MEDLINE and Google Scholar, using keywords such as 'pediatric morphea', 'juvenile localised scleroderma' and 'juvenile systemic sclerosis'. Relevant studies, including randomized trials, reviews of standard current guidelines and original research articles, were selected and results analysed before summarizing them. In Part 1 of this review, we described the epidemiology, aetiopathogenesis and clinical classification; in this part, we discuss the diagnosis, markers of disease activity, management and natural history in paediatric morphoea.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Kaushik
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, India
| | - R Mahajan
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, India
| | - D De
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, India
| | - S Handa
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, India
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Lis-Święty A, Skrzypek-Salamon A, Ranosz-Janicka I, Brzezińska-Wcisło L. Health-related quality of life and its influencing factors in adult patients with localized scleroderma - a cross-sectional study. Health Qual Life Outcomes 2020; 18:133. [PMID: 32398135 PMCID: PMC7216592 DOI: 10.1186/s12955-020-01386-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2020] [Accepted: 04/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Localized Scleroderma (LoS) is an autoimmune connective tissue disease that affects skin and less commonly subcutaneous tissues. The illness occurs in children and adults, and may have a serious impact on health-related quality of life (HRQoL). The goal of this study was to explore what factors might deteriorate scores on HRQoL measures in adult LoS patients. Methods Detailed information on the demographic and clinical features of LoS patients was collected. The HRQoL was assessed using Skindex-29 and Short form 36 (SF-36) questionnaires. Results Thirty three women and seven men with LoS were enrolled. Female gender negatively influenced scores for the emotion subscale of Skindex-29. Multiple-factor linear regression analysis confirmed, as with single-factor analysis, that the causes of low SF-36 physical component score (PCS) were subjective symptoms (pruritus, pain, paresthesia), musculoskeletal manifestations and older age at the time of survey, while rural area of residence negatively affected the SF-36 mental component score. Additionally, single-factor analysis showed that the SF-36 PCS was related to the LoS cutaneous assessment tool (LoSCAT) summary score. Conclusions Apart from a clinical presentations, sociodemographic characteristics, including older age, female gender and living conditions, may impair HRQoL of LoS patients. Further studies that will examine the role of these factors for physical and mental functioning of adults with LoS are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Lis-Święty
- Medical University of Silesia, Chair and Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine in Katowice, Francuska 20/24, 40-027, Katowice, Poland.
| | - Alina Skrzypek-Salamon
- Medical University of Silesia, Chair and Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine in Katowice, Francuska 20/24, 40-027, Katowice, Poland
| | - Irmina Ranosz-Janicka
- Medical University of Silesia, Chair and Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine in Katowice, Francuska 20/24, 40-027, Katowice, Poland
| | - Ligia Brzezińska-Wcisło
- Medical University of Silesia, Chair and Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine in Katowice, Francuska 20/24, 40-027, Katowice, Poland
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Flores Quispe SKJ, Cavaliere A, Weber M, Stramare R, Zuliani M, Quaia E, Zulian F, Giraudo C. Sarcopenia in juvenile localized scleroderma: new insights on deep involvement. Eur Radiol 2020; 30:4091-4097. [PMID: 32144460 DOI: 10.1007/s00330-020-06764-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2019] [Revised: 02/13/2020] [Accepted: 02/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Juvenile localized scleroderma (JLS) is a rare chronic autoimmune disease which can also affect bones and muscles. Nevertheless, muscle loss was not previously investigated in patients with JLS. Thus, the aim of this study was to retrospectively evaluate deep involvement and assess and quantify sarcopenia in JLS patients using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). METHODS Fourteen children with JLS (nine females, mean age ± SD, 7.1 ± 3.6 years) referring to our tertiary center from January 2012 to January 2018 who underwent at least one MRI examination including axial T1-weighted and short tau inversion recovery images were included. Two readers assessed in consensus superficial and deep involvement. Muscle edema, muscle fatty infiltration, and sarcopenia were independently scored (absent, moderate, or severe) and the Cohen's kappa coefficient computed. Skin perimeter, subcutaneous area, muscle area, and muscle volume were independently measured using the contralateral unaffected extremity as reference (paired Student's t test, p < 0.05). The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was used to investigate the reliability of the measurements. RESULTS All patients showed superficial involvement with subcutaneous fat atrophy being the most common finding (13 patients). Bone marrow edema occurred in five patients. Muscle edema affected ten children (moderate in seven, severe in three; k = 0.89), muscle fatty replacement occurred in one case (severe; k = 1.00), and sarcopenia was detected in eight patients (severe in two; k = 0.78). All quantitative parameters were lower on the affected side than on the unaffected contralateral limb (p < 0.05, each) and all measurements showed a high reliability (ICC > 0.750, each). CONCLUSION Patients with JLS can be affected by sarcopenia and quantitative analyses allow a robust characterization of such finding. KEY POINTS • Deep involvement in juvenile localized scleroderma is frequently characterized by sarcopenia. • In juvenile localized scleroderma, muscle edema and sarcopenia are mostly moderate while fatty infiltration, even if rare, can be severe. • Sarcopenia can be reliably quantified in children with juvenile localized scleroderma using MRI.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Annachiara Cavaliere
- Department of Medicine - DIMED, Radiology Institute, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani 2, 35100, Padua, Italy
| | - Michael Weber
- Department of Biomedical Imaging and Image-guided Therapy, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Roberto Stramare
- Department of Medicine - DIMED, Radiology Institute, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani 2, 35100, Padua, Italy
| | - Monica Zuliani
- Department of Medicine - DIMED, Radiology Institute, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani 2, 35100, Padua, Italy
| | - Emilio Quaia
- Department of Medicine - DIMED, Radiology Institute, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani 2, 35100, Padua, Italy
| | | | - Chiara Giraudo
- Department of Medicine - DIMED, Radiology Institute, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani 2, 35100, Padua, Italy.
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Zigler CK, Ardalan K, Lane S, Schollaert KL, Torok KS. A novel patient-reported outcome for paediatric localized scleroderma: a qualitative assessment of content validity. Br J Dermatol 2020; 182:625-635. [PMID: 31498874 PMCID: PMC7050359 DOI: 10.1111/bjd.18512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/31/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND According to current standards, no existing patient-reported outcome (PRO) measures have high-quality validity evidence for use with individuals diagnosed with paediatric localized scleroderma (LS). This severely hinders patient-centred LS-focused research, including much needed clinical trials. OBJECTIVES To develop a valid health-related quality of life measure for individuals with paediatric LS and to qualitatively evaluate its content validity using a patient-centred approach. METHODS Previously collected qualitative data from youth with LS and their caregivers was used to develop items. The resulting item set was administered in a clinical setting to participants aged 8-18 years old. Cognitive interviews were used to evaluate time to survey completion, readability/understanding of the items, appropriateness of the recall period and construct representation. RESULTS Seventeen children and adolescents with LS participated in the study. Interviews supported readability, understanding of the items and appropriateness of the recall period in individuals > 10 years old. Revisions were made to simplify the instructions and to be more inclusive of different subtypes of LS. Three items were added to improve content representation. CONCLUSIONS Content validity was supported by the patient-centred development process of the outcome measure and via direct feedback from individuals with LS and their families. Although an important first step, the resulting PRO, termed the Localized Scleroderma Quality of Life Instrument, should be further evaluated in a larger sample before being implemented. What's already known about this topic? No current health-related quality of life (HRQoL) measures have been created using direct input from children and adolescents with localized scleroderma (LS). When compared with qualitative reports of HRQoL impact in youth with all LS subtypes, no existing patient-reported outcome (PRO) measures have appropriate content validity for individuals with paediatric LS. What does this study add? This study proposes a novel LS-specific PRO and is the first qualitative assessment of content validity for any PRO measure in this population. Results from cognitive interviews with children and adolescents support the content validity of the newly developed item set and its ability to capture HRQoL impact in a clinical context. What are the clinical implications of this work? Incorporating a content-valid PRO of HRQoL impact into clinical practice would allow for the valid, ongoing capture of patient experience in LS. Although content validity is an important and necessary step in the process of evaluating validity, items within this novel measure will undergo additional psychometric evaluation before implementation in research and clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- C K Zigler
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, U.S.A
| | - K Ardalan
- Division of Rheumatology, Departments of Paediatrics and Medical Social Sciences, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, U.S.A
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, U.S.A
| | - S Lane
- School of Education and 5School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, U.S.A
| | | | - K S Torok
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Paediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC, Pittsburgh, PA, U.S.A
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Glaser DH, Schutt C, Schollaert-Fitch K, Torok K. Linear Scleroderma of the Head - Updates in management of Parry Romberg Syndrome and En coup de sabre: A rapid scoping review across subspecialties. Eur J Rheumatol 2020; 7:S48-S57. [PMID: 35929860 PMCID: PMC7004261 DOI: 10.5152/eurjrheum.2019.19183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2019] [Accepted: 11/24/2019] [Indexed: 07/27/2023] Open
Abstract
To provide an update on the current management, including evaluation and treatment, and the available diagnostic tools for linear scleroderma of the head, i.e., Parry-Romberg Syndrome and en coup de sabre (PRS/ECDS). A rapid scoping review of the literature was conducted to include manuscripts published in English between 2010 and 2019. Literature searches were performed in PubMed and EMBASE databases. The were analyzed for descriptive statistic reporting. This study reviewed 215 manuscripts reporting these 1430 patients. Surgical reports comprised the majority of the reviewed literature. Most PRS/ECDS did not appear to receive comprehensive multisubspecialty evaluation for extracutaneous manifestations; 21% of cases noted neurological screening, 4% noted dental screening, and 3% noted ophthalmologic screening. Methotrexate and glucocorticoids remain the most frequent choice for immunosuppressive treatment, though fewer than 7% of patients reported receiving systemic medical therapies. Surgical procedures for cosmetic or functional improvement were common (59%) among the reported patients. Autologous fat grafting was the most frequently utilized cosmetic treatment (50% of procedures) followed by free flap transfers (24% of procedures). There is ongoing need for standardized evaluation, monitoring, and treatment to prevent morbidity in PRS/ECDS, especially in children. When these patients are managed by rheumatologists, methotrexate, and steroids remain the first-line treatment, but a review of the published literature reflects that this may be a minority. Most PRS/ECDS patients are not evaluated in a multidisciplinary fashion. We propose comprehensive evaluations across subspecialties at the baseline and follow-up levels to monitor disease activity and record extracutaneous manifestations, treatment algorithms, and surgical intervention considerations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Kathryn Torok
- UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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Li SC, Zheng RJ. Overview of Juvenile localized scleroderma and its management. World J Pediatr 2020; 16:5-18. [PMID: 31786801 DOI: 10.1007/s12519-019-00320-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2019] [Accepted: 09/26/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Juvenile localized scleroderma (JLS) is a rare pediatric disease characterized by inflammation and skin thickening. JLS is associated with deep tissue and extracutaneous involvement that often results in functional impairment and growth disturbances. This article provides an overview of the disease with a focus on active features and treatment. DATA SOURCES We searched databases including PubMed, Elsevier and MedLine and Wanfang, reviewing publications from 2013 to 2019. Selected earlier publications were also reviewed. RESULTS Linear scleroderma is the most common JLS subtype. Several lines of evidence suggest that JLS is an autoimmune disease. Extracutaneous involvement is common and can present before the onset of skin disease. Multiple skin features are associated with disease activity, and activity can also manifest as arthritis, myositis, uveitis, seizures, and growth impairment. Systemic immunosuppressive treatment, commonly methotrexate with or without glucocorticoids, greatly improves outcome and is recommended for treating JLS patients with active disease and moderate or higher severity. Long term monitoring is needed because of the disease's chronicity and the high frequency of relapses off of treatment. CONCLUSIONS JLS is associated with a risk for disabling and disfiguring morbidity for the growing child. Identifying active disease is important for guiding treatment, but often difficult because of the paucity of markers and lack of a universal skin activity feature. More studies of JLS pathophysiology are needed to allow the identification of biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Comparative effectiveness treatment studies are also needed to work towards optimizing care and outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzanne C Li
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Rheumatology, Joseph M. Sanzari Children's Hospital, Hackensack University Medical Center, 30 Prospect Avenue, Imus 337, Hackensack, 07601, NJ, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine at Seton Hall University, Clifton, 07110, NJ, USA.
| | - Rong-Jun Zheng
- Department of Rheumatology, Immunology, and Allergy, Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
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Torok KS. Assigning values to the Localized Scleroderma Cutaneous Assessment Tool (LoSCAT) score indicating degree of severity and responsiveness: fostering practical use in clinic and therapeutic studies for morphoea/localized scleroderma. Br J Dermatol 2020; 182:272-273. [PMID: 31943130 DOI: 10.1111/bjd.18782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- K S Torok
- University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Rheumatology Division, University of Pittsburgh Scleroderma Center, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, U.S.A
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Abstract
Juvenile localized scleroderma (jLS) is an orphan disease that can lead to cosmetic disfiguration and orthopedic problems. Two recent publications review the current recommendations regarding diagnosis, assessment, follow up and treatment of pediatric localized scleroderma cases, both of which suggest the Localized Scleroderma Cutaneous Assessment Tool as an important instrument to assess activity and damage. This review focuses on the systemic treatment of jLS. Systemic treatment includes synthetic and biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs. Systemic therapy is indicated if the lesion crosses any joint, or leads to potential cosmetic disfiguration or orthopedic problems. The only controlled trial of systemic treatment has shown the efficacy of methotrexate, which is the first choice of treatment. It appears superior to phototherapy according to a recently published meta-analysis. In case of methotrexate intolerance, mycophenolate mofetil is an option. In case of methotrexate nonresponse, addition of mycophenolate mofetil, tocilizumab or abatacept seems to be effective. Future treatment options derived and extrapolated from adult trials regarding treatment of skin involvement of systemic scleroderma or fibrosis are promising, as the final pathway in the skin seems to be similar in both diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivan Foeldvari
- Hamburg Centre for Pediatric and Adolescence Rheumatology, Centre for Treatment of Scleroderma and Uveitis in Childhood and Adolescence, Teaching Unit of the Asklepios Campus of the Semmelweis Medical School, Budapest, An der Schön Klinik Hamburg-Eilbek, Dehnhaide 120, 22081, Hamburg, Germany.
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47
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Teske N, Jacobe H. Using the Localized Scleroderma Cutaneous Assessment Tool (Lo
SCAT
) to classify morphoea by severity and identify clinically significant change. Br J Dermatol 2019; 182:398-404. [PMID: 31049928 DOI: 10.1111/bjd.18097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Validated scoring measures in morphoea can facilitate clinical trials. OBJECTIVES To ascertain the clinical significance of scores on the Localized Scleroderma Cutaneous Assessment Tool (LoSCAT) and identify the change in scores correlated with clinically meaningful change. METHODS A prospective study of 120 participants from the Morphea in Adults and Children (MAC) cohort was undertaken. Physician's subjective assessments of severity and of improvement were completed at each visit. Receiver operating characteristic analysis determined LoSCAT scores corresponding with mild, moderate and severe disease, and absolute and percentage changes in scores corresponding with improved or worsened disease activity or damage. RESULTS Mild, moderate and severe activity corresponded with LoSCAT activity index (LoSAI) scores of 0-4, 5-12 and 13 and over, and with Physician's Global Assessment of activity (PGA-A) scores of 0-10, 11-30 and 31 and over. Mild, moderate and severe damage corresponded with LoSCAT damage index (LoSDI) scores of 0-10, 11-15 and 16 and over, and with PGA of damage (PGA-D) scores of 0-18, 19-30 and 31 and over. Improved activity was best indicated by LoSAI decrease of at least 2 points or 27·5%, or PGA-A decrease of at least 6 points. Improved damage was best indicated by LoSDI score decrease of at least 2 points. Worsening activity was best indicated by LoSAI increase of at least 2 points or 19·5%, or PGA-A increase of at least 4 points. Worsening damage was best indicated by LoSDI increase of at least 25·5%. CONCLUSIONS The LoSCAT can be used to classify patients with morphoea by disease severity, and identify clinically significant improvement in activity. What's already known about this topic? The Localized Scleroderma Cutaneous Assessment Tool (LoSCAT) is a clinical tool that separately quantifies disease activity and damage in morphoea, and prior studies have demonstrated validity and reliability. What does this study add? The LoSCAT can be used to classify patients with morphoea by disease severity into mild, moderate and severe groups, and to identify clinically significant improvement in disease activity in patients with morphoea. The LoSCAT may be limited in its ability to detect clinically significant changes in disease damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- N.M. Teske
- Department of Dermatology University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center Dallas TX U.S.A
| | - H.T. Jacobe
- Department of Dermatology University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center Dallas TX U.S.A
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Linear scleroderma is the most common subtype of localized scleroderma (LoS) in children. It can be associated with extracutaneous manifestations and long-term sequelae. Thus, appropriate diagnosis and management are key to improve the prognosis. In this review, we summarize the most relevant recent publications for the diagnosis, evaluation of disease activity and adequate management of patients with linear scleroderma. RECENT FINDINGS There are specific clinical features that indicate activity in LoS; dermoscopy and Wood's lamp may be useful. Summarizing, scoring methods seem to provide the most adequate assessment of LoS; but several biomarkers that correlate with activity have been studied: E-selectin and IL-2 receptor, CD34+ dermal dendritic cells and Th/Th1 immunophenotype with decreased T helper (Th2), T regulatory (Tregs), B and natural killer (NK) cells. Recent studies propose hydroxychloroquine monotherapy and tocilizumab as potential therapeutic options. SUMMARY Clinical evaluation, both physical exam and history, is the most important aspect in diagnosing and assessing activity of linear scleroderma. Clinical scoring methods may be most useful for evaluation of activity; eventually, other biomarkers could be relevant in clinical practice. For most patients with linear scleroderma, the first choice of treatment is methotrexate, but physical therapy, plastic surgery and/or orthopedic management are key to improve residual limitations and quality of life. VIDEO ABSTRACT: http://links.lww.com/MOP/A35.
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Li SC, Fuhlbrigge RC, Laxer RM, Pope E, Ibarra MF, Stewart K, Mason T, Becker ML, Hong S, Dedeoglu F, Torok KS, Rabinovich CE, Ferguson PJ, Punaro M, Feldman BM, Andrews T, Higgins GC. Developing comparative effectiveness studies for a rare, understudied pediatric disease: lessons learned from the CARRA juvenile localized scleroderma consensus treatment plan pilot study. Pediatr Rheumatol Online J 2019; 17:43. [PMID: 31307476 PMCID: PMC6632199 DOI: 10.1186/s12969-019-0350-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2019] [Accepted: 07/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND We designed and initiated a pilot comparative effectiveness study for juvenile localized scleroderma (jLS), for which there is limited evidence on best therapy. We evaluated the process we used, in relation to the specific protocol and to the general task of identifying strategies for implementing studies in rare pediatric diseases. METHODS This was a prospective, multi-center, observational cohort study of 50 jLS patients initiating treatment, designed and conducted by the jLS group of the Childhood Arthritis and Rheumatology Research Alliance (CARRA) from 2012 to 2015. A series of virtual and physical meetings were held to design the study, standardize clinical assessments, generate and refine disease activity and damage measures, and monitor the study. Patients were initiated on one of three standardized methotrexate-based treatment regimens (consensus treatment plans, CTPs) and monitored for 1 year. An optional bio-banking sub-study was included. RESULTS The target enrollment of 50 patients was achieved over 26 months at 10 sites, with patients enrolled into all CTPs. Enrolled patients were typical for jLS. Study eligibility criteria were found to perform well, capturing patients thought appropriate for treatment studies. Minor modifications to the eligibility criteria, primarily to facilitate recruitment for future studies, were discussed with consensus agreement reached on them by the jLS group. There were marked differences in site preferences for specific CTPs, with half the sites treating all their patients with the same CTP. Most patients (88%) completed the study, and 68% participated in the bio-banking substudy. CONCLUSIONS We demonstrate the feasibility of our approach for conducting comparative effectiveness research in a rare pediatric disease. Multi-center collaboration by dedicated investigators who met regularly was a key factor in the success of this project. Other factors that facilitate these studies include having a sufficient number of investigators to enroll in each regimen, and streamlining study approval and management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzanne C. Li
- Joseph M. Sanzari Children’s Hospital, Hackensack University Medical Center, Imus PC337, 30 Prospect Ave, Hackensack, NJ 07061 USA
- Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine at Seton Hall University, Clifton, NJ USA
| | | | - Ronald M. Laxer
- University of Toronto and The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada
| | - Elena Pope
- University of Toronto and The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada
| | | | - Katie Stewart
- Texas Scottish Rite Hospital and UT Southwestern, Dallas, TX USA
| | | | | | - Sandy Hong
- University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital, Iowa City, IA USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Marilynn Punaro
- Texas Scottish Rite Hospital and UT Southwestern, Dallas, TX USA
| | - Brian M. Feldman
- University of Toronto and The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada
| | - Tracy Andrews
- Rutgers School of Public Health, Rutgers University, Newark, NJ USA
| | - Gloria C. Higgins
- The Ohio State University and Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH USA
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Kunzler E, Florez-Pollack S, Teske N, O'Brien J, Prasad S, Jacobe H. Linear morphea: Clinical characteristics, disease course, and treatment of the Morphea in Adults and Children cohort. J Am Acad Dermatol 2019; 80:1664-1670.e1. [PMID: 31005342 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaad.2019.01.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2018] [Revised: 12/05/2018] [Accepted: 01/21/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prospective, longitudinal studies examining the features of linear morphea are limited. OBJECTIVE To utilize the Morphea in Adults and Children cohort to determine clinical characteristics, impact on life quality, and disease course of linear morphea in a prospective, longitudinal manner. METHODS Characteristics of linear morphea versus other subtypes were compared in a cross-sectional manner. Next, linear morphea participants were examined in depth over a 3-year period. RESULTS Linear morphea was the most common morphea subtype (50.1%, 291/581) in the cohort. Deep involvement was more common in linear (64.3%, 187/291) than other morphea subtypes. Linear morphea participants with deep involvement were more likely to have a limitation in range of motion (28.6%, 55/192) than those without (11.1%, 11/99, P < .001). Adult-onset disease occurred in 32.6% (95/291) of those with linear morphea. Frequency of deep involvement was similar between pediatric (66.8%, 131/196) and adult-onset linear morphea (58.9%, 56/95, P = .19). Quality of life and disease activity scores improved over time, while damage stabilized with treatment. LIMITATIONS Results of the study are associative, and the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center is a tertiary referral center. CONCLUSION A substantial number of linear morphea patients have adult-onset disease. In all age groups, linear morphea with deep involvement was associated with functional limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elaine Kunzler
- Department of Dermatology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas; Northeast Ohio Medical University, Rootstown, Ohio
| | | | - Noelle Teske
- Department of Dermatology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Jack O'Brien
- Department of Dermatology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Smriti Prasad
- Department of Dermatology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Heidi Jacobe
- Department of Dermatology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas.
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