Clinical manifestations of systemic sclerosis

Targeting Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) as a signaling pathway in immune-mediated diseases: from molecular mechanisms to leading treatments

Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK), a nonreceptor tyrosine kinase, plays a remarkable role in the transmission and amplification of extracellular signals to intracellular signaling pathways. Various types of cells use the BTK pathway to communicate, including hematopoietic cells particularly B cells and T cells. The BTK pathway plays a role in controlling the proliferation, survival, and functions of B cells as well as other myeloid cells. First, second, and third-generation BTK inhibitors are currently being evaluated for the treatment of immune-mediated diseases in addition to B cell malignancies. In this article, the available evidence on the action mechanisms of BTK inhibitors is reviewed. Then, the most recent data obtained from preclinical studies and ongoing clinical trials for the treatment of autoimmune diseases, such as pemphigus vulgaris, pemphigus foliaceus, bullous pemphigoid, systemic lupus erythematosus, Sjögren's disease, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic sclerosis, multiple sclerosis, myasthenia gravis, and inflammatory diseases such as psoriasis, chronic spontaneous urticaria, atopic dermatitis, and asthma are discussed. In addition, adverse effects and complications associated with BTK inhibitors as well as factors predisposing patients to BTK inhibitors complications are discussed.

Incisional Release and Fat Grafting for the Surgical Management of Perioral Fibrosis in Scleroderma: A Technical Report and Institutional Review

INTRODUCTION

Scleroderma (systemic sclerosis [SSc]) is a rare autoimmune, connective tissue disorder. Perioral fibrosis is a local cutaneous complication, negatively impacting functional capabilities and aesthetic satisfaction. Fat grafting has been postulated to aid in the management of SSc fibrosis thanks to stem cell enrichment. This technique's success has been demonstrated using different graft origin sites and different injection targets. We aim to demonstrate our SSc patients' success using abdominal fat and perioral target.

METHODS

We queried our records for patients with preexisting SSc who underwent incisional release and fat grafting for perioral fibrosis from 2018 to 2021. For perioral release, a semisharp cannula was tunneled under the vermilion border into the vermilion and along the skin. For grafting, cannulas were used to infiltrate the fat with a retrograde filling technique in a radial-fanning manner. Their autoimmune diagnosis, anesthetic risk assessment, systemic disease complications, and degree of presenting symptoms were reviewed along with their postoperative outcomes.

RESULTS

From 2018 to 2021, 16 patients diagnosed with SSc were treated with incisional release and fat grafting for the management of perioral fibrosis. Of the SSc patients, 8 presented with limited SSc, and 8 presented with diffuse SSc. The mean patient age was 54.31 years. All SSc patients presented with functional symptoms with the most common concern (n = 9) being "decreased mouth opening." Other common complaints were "difficulty eating" (n = 3) or "difficulty drinking" (n = 2). Some patients (n = 11) also presented with cosmetic concerns with "perioral rhytids" being the most common (n = 6). The mean number of systemic complications, at the time of presentation, was 3.06. The mean anesthetic risk assessment was 2.44. The average amount of fat grafted intraoperatively was 14.89 mL. Two patients with SSc required regrafting. For one patient, this was part of the original treatment plan and for the other due to fat resorption. Patients who followed up reported improved functionality and were pleased aesthetically.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with perioral fibrosis due to SSc can benefit from autologous fat grafting. Incisional release in combination with fat grafting can enhance procedure outcomes. This technique provides beneficial functional and aesthetic outcomes. Patients with both diffuse and limited disease are appropriate candidates for this procedure.

Kidney transplantation in systemic sclerosis: Advances in graft, disease, and patient outcome

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an immune-mediated rheumatic disease characterized by vascular abnormalities, tissue fibrosis, and inflammation. Renal disease occurring in patients with SSc may have a variable clinicopathological picture. However, the most specific renal condition associated with this disease is the scleroderma renal crisis (SRC), characterized by acute onset of renal failure and severe hypertension. SRC develops in about 20% of cases of SSc, especially in those patients with diffuse cutaneous disease. The prognosis of this condition is often negative, with a rapid progression to end-stage renal disease (ESRD). The advent of the antihypertensive angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors in 1980 was associated with a significant improvement in patients’ survival and recovery of renal function. However, the prognosis of these patients can still be improved. The dialytic condition is associated with early death, and mortality is significantly higher than among patients undergoing renal replacement therapy (RRT) due to other conditions. Patients with SRC who show no signs of renal functional recovery despite timely blood pressure control are candidates for kidney transplantation (KT). In this review, we reported the most recent advances in KT in patients with ESRD due to SSc, with a particular overview of the risk of disease recurrence after transplantation and the evolution of other disease manifestations.

Clinical features and long-term outcomes of Chinese patients with scleroderma renal crisis

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the clinical features, treatments, and long-term outcomes of Chinese patients with scleroderma renal crisis (SRC).

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the clinical and laboratory data of 538 patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc) at our center from January 2009 to December 2016, including 29 SRC and 509 SSc without SRC patients. The treatments and long-term outcomes of patients with SRC were also retrospectively analyzed.

RESULTS

The prevalence of SRC was 5.4% in our cohort. Male gender (odds ratio [OR] =4.194 [95% CI 1.494-11.773]), glucocorticoid exposure (OR = 3.666 [1.484-9.056]), pericardial effusion (OR = 11.180 [4.515-27.681]), and myocardial involvement (OR = 7.958 [1.664-38.064]) were associated with an increased risk of development of SRC. Despite the wide use of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, the permanent dialysis rate of patients with SRC was 48.3%. Sixteen patients died during follow-up, and the estimated 1- and 5-year survival rates of patients with SRC were 62.1% and 47.3%, respectively. Withdrawal of dialysis (5 patients) and myocardial complications (3 patients) were the main causes of death in patients with SRC. Patients with serum creatinine level >500 µmol/L before treatment (log rank test 5.051, P = 0.025) and/or those who needed dialysis at the onset of SRC (log rank test 12.870, P < 0.001) showed poorer prognosis.

CONCLUSION

SRC is a rare but severe complication in patients with SSc. Male gender, glucocorticoid exposure, pericardial effusion, and myocardial involvement were risk factors in the development of SRC. Withdrawal of dialysis and myocardial complications were the main causes of death in Chinese patients with SRC.

Dental management of scleroderma patients using pentoxifylline plus vitamin E with and without TheraBite® to reduce trismus: Two case reports and brief review of literature

To provide evidence supporting the off label use of pentoxifylline and vitamin E especially by dentists with TheraByte to reduce trismus in scleroderma patients.

Computed tomography trachea volumetry in patients with scleroderma: Association with clinical and functional findings

BACKGROUND

In scleroderma, excessive collagen production can alter tracheal geometry, and computed tomography (CT) volumetry of this structure may aid in detecting possible abnormalities. The objectives of this study were to quantify the morphological abnormalities in the tracheas of ​​patients with scleroderma and to correlate these findings with data on clinical and pulmonary function.

METHODS

This was a cross-sectional study in which 28 adults with scleroderma and 27 controls matched by age, gender and body mass index underwent chest CT with posterior segmentation and skeletonization of the images. In addition, all participants underwent pulmonary function tests and clinical evaluation, including the modified Rodnan skin score (mRSS).

RESULTS

Most patients (71.4%) had interstitial lung disease on CT. Compared to controls, patients with scleroderma showed higher values ​​in the parameters measured by CT trachea volumetry, including area, eccentricity, major diameter, minor diameter, and tortuosity. The tracheal area and equivalent diameter were negatively correlated with the ratio between forced expiratory flow and forced inspiratory flow at 50% of forced vital capacity (FEF50%/FIF50%) (r = -0.44, p = 0.03 and r = -0.46, p = 0.02, respectively). The tracheal tortuosity was negatively correlated with peak expiratory flow (r = -0.51, p = 0.008). The mRSS showed a positive correlation with eccentricity (r = 0.62, p < 0.001) and tracheal tortuosity (r = 0.51, p = 0.007), while the presence of anti-topoisomerase I antibody (ATA) showed a positive correlation with tracheal tortuosity (r = 0.45, p = 0.03).

CONCLUSIONS

In a sample composed predominantly of scleroderma patients with associated interstitial lung disease, there were abnormalities in tracheal geometry, including greater eccentricity, diameter and tortuosity. In these patients, abnormalities in the geometry of the trachea were associated with functional markers of obstruction. In addition, tracheal tortuosity was correlated with cutaneous involvement and the presence of ATA.

Dermatologic conditions in patients of color who are pregnant

Certain dermatoses that present during pregnancy have a predilection for populations with skin of color (SOC). Additionally, certain systemic diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus tend to be more aggressive during pregnancy and confer worse prognoses in women with SOC. The purpose of this review is to highlight the unique implications of selected diseases during pregnancy as it relates to SOC. Dermatologists should be vigilant for the unique clinical variations of dermatological conditions in patients of color who are pregnant to ensure correct diagnoses and optimize treatment outcomes.

Genomic and genetic studies of systemic sclerosis: A systematic review

Systemic sclerosis is an autoimmune rheumatic disease characterised by fibrosis, vasculopathy and inflammation. The exact aetiology of SSc remains unknown but evidences show that various genetic factors may be involved. This review aimed to assess HLA alleles/non-HLA polymorphisms, microsatellites and chromosomal abnormalities that have thus far been associated with SSc. PubMed, Embase and Scopus databases were searched up to July 29, 2015 using a combination of search-terms. Articles retrieved were evaluated based on set exclusion and inclusion criteria. A total of 150 publications passed the filters. HLA and non-HLA studies showed that particular alleles in the HLA-DRB1, HLA-DQB1, HLA-DQA1, HLA-DPB1 genes and variants in STAT4, IRF5 and CD247 are frequently associated with SSc. Non-HLA genes analysis was performed using the PANTHER and STRING₁₀ databases. PANTHER classification revealed that inflammation mediated by chemokine and cytokine, interleukin and integrin signalling pathways are among the common extracted pathways associated with SSc. STRING₁₀ analysis showed that NFKB1, CSF3R, STAT4, IFNG, PRL and ILs are the main "hubs" of interaction network of the non-HLA genes associated with SSc. This study gathers data of valid genetic factors associated with SSc and discusses the possible interactions of implicated molecules.

Mastocytosis and systemic sclerosis: a clinical association

BACKGROUND

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a complex autoimmune disease characterized by vascular alterations and autoimmune activation leading to widespread organ fibrosis. At the early stage of disease when organ involvement and extent of disease are emerging, mast cells may have some role, as implied by both symptoms and histologic evidence.

CASE PRESENTATION

A female patient diagnosed with cutaneous mastocytosis experienced the onset of systemic sclerosis after 15 years followed by the switch of mastocytosis to the systemic phenotype. A literature review on the evidences related to mast-cells activation in systemic sclerosis is presented below.

CONCLUSIONS

For clinicians, more attention must be paid to the potential association between systemic sclerosis and cancer. This case suggests that a proliferative disease in the mast cell compartment-though representing a rare association-may not be completely unexpected in SSc and perhaps excess mast cell activity can serve a pathogenic role in promoting fibrotic disease.

The Impact of Pain and Itch on Functioning and Health-Related Quality of Life in Systemic Sclerosis: An Exploratory Study

CONTEXT

Pain and itch are common symptoms reported by patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc; scleroderma), which can markedly diminish function and health-related quality of life (HRQL).

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this exploratory study was to examine the impact that pain, itch, and the interaction of both have on function (depressive symptoms, overall disability, fatigue, sleep disturbance) and HRQL in patients with SSc.

METHODS

A total of 964 patients from the Canadian Scleroderma Reserch Group Registry completed questionnaires measuring itch and pain severity, function, and HRQL. Multiple regression analyses were performed to examine the impact that pain, itch, and pain × itch interaction have on each outcome variable while controlling for demographic measures. A P-value of ≤0.01 was required for a difference to be deemed statistically significant.

RESULTS

Our results revealed that patients with SSc who reported higher pain and itch severity were also more likely to have greater depressive symptoms, overall disability, sleep and fatigue problems, even when demographic measures were controlled for (P-values ≤0.001). Similar results were obtained for HRQL, regardless of the domains (P-values ≤0.001). A significant association between pain × itch interaction and sleep (P = 0.002), physical functioning (P = 0.003), and general health (P ≤ 0.001) variables also was found. Further investigation of the nature of the pain × itch interaction showed that the effect of pain severity on outcome variables diminishes as itch severity increases.

CONCLUSION

Both pain and itch appear to have a detrimental impact on functioning and HRQL in patients with SSc, suggesting that more targeted approaches to symptom management are warranted.

A methodology for exploring biomarker--phenotype associations: application to flow cytometry data and systemic sclerosis clinical manifestations

Background

This work seeks to develop a methodology for identifying reliable biomarkers of disease activity, progression and outcome through the identification of significant associations between high-throughput flow cytometry (FC) data and interstitial lung disease (ILD) - a systemic sclerosis (SSc, or scleroderma) clinical phenotype which is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in SSc. A specific aim of the work involves developing a clinically useful screening tool that could yield accurate assessments of disease state such as the risk or presence of SSc-ILD, the activity of lung involvement and the likelihood to respond to therapeutic intervention. Ultimately this instrument could facilitate a refined stratification of SSc patients into clinically relevant subsets at the time of diagnosis and subsequently during the course of the disease and thus help in preventing bad outcomes from disease progression or unnecessary treatment side effects.

The methods utilized in the work involve: (1) clinical and peripheral blood flow cytometry data (Immune Response In Scleroderma, IRIS) from consented patients followed at the Johns Hopkins Scleroderma Center. (2) machine learning (Conditional Random Forests - CRF) coupled with Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) to identify subsets of FC variables that are highly effective in classifying ILD patients; and (3) stochastic simulation to design, train and validate ILD risk screening tools.

Results

Our hybrid analysis approach (CRF-GSEA) proved successful in predicting SSc patient ILD status with a high degree of success (>82 % correct classification in validation; 79 patients in the training data set, 40 patients in the validation data set).

Conclusions

IRIS flow cytometry data provides useful information in assessing the ILD status of SSc patients. Our new approach combining Conditional Random Forests and Gene Set Enrichment Analysis was successful in identifying a subset of flow cytometry variables to create a screening tool that proved effective in correctly identifying ILD patients in the training and validation data sets. From a somewhat broader perspective, the identification of subsets of flow cytometry variables that exhibit coordinated movement (i.e., multi-variable up or down regulation) may lead to insights into possible effector pathways and thereby improve the state of knowledge of systemic sclerosis pathogenesis.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12859-015-0722-x) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Correlates and responsiveness to change of measures of skin and musculoskeletal disease in early diffuse systemic sclerosis

OBJECTIVE

Skin and musculoskeletal involvement are frequently present early in diffuse cutaneous systemic sclerosis (dcSSc). The current study examined the correlates for skin and musculoskeletal measures in a 1-year longitudinal observational study.

METHODS

Patients with dcSSc were recruited at 4 US centers and enrolled in a 1-year study. Prespecified and standardized measures included physician and patient assessments of skin involvement, modified Rodnan skin score (MRSS), durometer score, Health Assessment Questionnaire disability index, serum creatine phosphokinase, tender joint counts, and presence/absence of tendon friction rubs, small joint contractures, and large joint contractures. Additionally, physician and patient global health assessments and health-related quality of life assessments were recorded. Correlations were computed among the baseline global assessments, skin variables, and musculoskeletal variables. Using the followup physician and patient anchors, effect sizes were calculated.

RESULTS

A total of 200 patients were studied: 75% were women, mean ± SD age was 50.0 ± 11.9 years, and mean ± SD disease duration from first non-Raynaud's phenomenon symptom was 1.6 ± 1.4 years. Physician global health assessment had large correlations with MRSS (r = 0.60) and physician-reported skin involvement visual analog scale in the last month (r = 0.74), whereas patient global assessment had large correlations with MRSS, the Short Form 36 health survey physical component scale, skin interference, and skin involvement in the last month (r = 0.37-0.72). Four of 9 skin variables had moderate to large effect sizes (0.51-1.09).

CONCLUSION

Physician and patient global assessments have larger correlations with skin measures compared to musculoskeletal measures. From a clinical trial perspective, skin variables were more responsive to change than musculoskeletal variables over a 1-year period, although both provide complementary information.

Intensive aerobic and muscle endurance exercise in patients with systemic sclerosis: a pilot study

Background

No previous studies have examined the effect of intensive exercise in systemic sclerosis patients with pulmonary impairment. The objective of this study was to examine the effect of an eight-week intensive aerobic exercise and muscle endurance training program for patients with systemic sclerosis with 50–100% of forced vital capacity.

Methods

A single-subject experimental design with repeated systematic measures during a six week A-phase (non-interventional baseline period) and an eight week B-phase (exercise intervention period) was used. Three women and one man with median age 66 years and median disease duration of 3.5 years completed aerobic exercise corresponding to 15 on the Borg RPE scale (strenuous) and muscular endurance training three times/week. Physical capacity (six-minute walk test), aerobic capacity (submaximal treadmill test) and muscle endurance in shoulder and hip flexion (Functional Index 2) were assessed every other week throughout the 14-week study. Activity limitation (Health Assessment Questionnaire), quality of life (Short Form 36), Raynaud, Fatigue and Global Health during the recent week (Visual Analogue Scales) were assessed at weeks 0, 6, 14.

Results

Three participants improved significantly in muscular endurance, and two participants improved significantly or clinically relevant in aerobic capacity. All other variables remained unchanged, except for a trend towards reduced fatigue.

Conclusions

This eight week exercise program was largely successful with positive effects on aerobic capacity and muscle endurance.

Trial registration

Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT01813578

Morphometric evaluation of nitric oxide synthase isoforms and their cytokine regulators predict pulmonary dysfunction and survival in systemic sclerosis

Because histopathological changes in the lungs of patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc) are consistent with alveolar and vessel cell damage, we presume that this interaction can be characterized by analyzing the expression of proteins regulating nitric oxide (NO) and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) synthesis. To validate the importance of alveolar-vascular interactions and to explore the quantitative relationship between these factors and other clinical data, we studied these markers in 23 cases of SSc nonspecific interstitial pneumonia (SSc-NSIP). We used immunohistochemistry and morphometry to evaluate the amount of cells in alveolar septa and vessels staining for NO synthase (NOS) and PAI-1, and the outcomes of our study were cellular and fibrotic NSIP, pulmonary function tests, and survival time until death. General linear model analysis demonstrated that staining for septal inducible NOS (iNOS) related significantly to staining of septal cells for interleukin (IL)-4 and to septal IL-13. In univariate analysis, higher levels of septal and vascular cells staining for iNOS were associated with a smaller percentage of septal and vascular cells expressing fibroblast growth factor and myofibroblast proliferation, respectively. Multivariate Cox model analysis demonstrated that, after controlling for SSc-NSIP histological patterns, just three variables were significantly associated with survival time: septal iNOS (P=0.04), septal IL-13 (P=0.03), and septal basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF; P=0.02). Augmented NOS, IL-13, and bFGF in SSc-NSIP histological patterns suggest a possible functional role for iNOS in SSc. In addition, the extent of iNOS, PAI-1, and IL-4 staining in alveolar septa and vessels provides a possible independent diagnostic measure for the degree of pulmonary dysfunction and fibrosis with an impact on the survival of patients with SSc.

The 15% rule in scleroderma: the frequency of severe organ complications in systemic sclerosis. A systematic review

OBJECTIVE

The prevalence of organ complications in scleroderma (systemic sclerosis; SSc) varies by definition used. This study was done to determine the frequency of several features of SSc.

METHODS

A search of Medline-Ovid/Embase, PubMed, and Scopus databases from 1980 to November 30, 2011, was conducted to identify relevant articles with at least 50 patients with SSc extracting prevalence of each organ complication. Study quality was assessed using the STROBE (Strengthening The Reporting of OBservational studies in Epidemiology) checklist. Pooled prevalence was calculated using the random effects method. Heterogeneity was quantified using I(2).

RESULTS

A total of 5916 articles were identified (913 from Medline-Ovid/Embase, 1009 from PubMed, and 3994 from Scopus); 5665 were excluded, leaving 251 articles for full-text review, with 69 included. Where available, frequencies were also included from the Canadian Scleroderma Research Group. Many severe complications in SSc occur about 15% of the time, including cardiac involvement (15%, 95% CI 6-24), diastolic dysfunction (16%, 95% CI 14-17), estimated pulmonary artery pressure > 40 mm Hg (18%, 95% CI 14-21), pulmonary arterial hypertension by right heart catheterization (15%, 95% CI 12-17), forced vital capacity (FVC) < 70% predicted (15%, 95% CI 12-17), FVC < 80% predicted (17%, 95% CI 12-21), myositis (13%, 95% CI 10-17), inflammatory arthritis (12%, 95% CI 9-16), Sjögren overlap (13%, 95% CI 10-16), and digital ulcers (DU; 15%, 95% CI 10-20); and 15% of DU have complications (amputations 12%, 95% CI 8-16, and hospitalizations 13%, 95% CI 6-21). Scleroderma renal crisis is uncommon but occurs in almost 15% (12%, 95% CI 5-19) of cases of disseminated cutaneous SSc. There is no 15% rule within skin and gastrointestinal tract for SSc.

CONCLUSION

The "15%" rule for frequency of significant organ involvement in SSc is helpful.

Connective Tissue Disease-associated Interstitial Lung Disease: A review

Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is commonly encountered in patients with connective tissue diseases (CTD). Besides the lung parenchyma, the airways, pulmonary vasculature and structures of the chest wall may all be involved, depending on the type of CTD. As a result of this so-called multi-compartment involvement, airflow limitation, pulmonary hypertension, vasculitis and extrapulmonary restriction can occur alongside fibro-inflammatory parenchymal abnormalities in CTD. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), systemic sclerosis (SSc), poly-/dermatomyositis (PM/DM), Sjögren's syndrome (SjS), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and undifferentiated (UCTD) as well as mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD) can all be associated with the development of ILD. Non-specific interstitial pneumonia (NSIP) is the most commonly observed histopathological pattern in CTD-ILD, but other patterns including usual interstitial pneumonia (UIP), organizing pneumonia (OP), diffuse alveolar damage (DAD) and lymphocytic interstitial pneumonia (LIP) may occur. Although the majority of patients with CTD-ILD experience stable or slowly advancing ILD, a small yet significant group exhibits a more severe and progressive course. Randomized placebo-controlled trials evaluating the efficacy of immunomodulatory treatments have been conducted only in SSc-associated ILD. However, clinical experience suggests that a handful of immunosuppressive medications are potentially effective in a sizeable portion of patients with ILD caused by other CTDs. In this manuscript, we review the clinical characteristics and management of the most common CTD-ILDs.

Immediate Effect of Xylitol Chewing Gum and Mouth Rinse on Salivary Levels of Mutans Streptococci in Adults with Systemic Sclerosis: A Pilot Study

OBJECTIVE

To compare the immediate effect of xylitol chewing gum and xylitol mouth rinse on mutans streptococci (MS) levels in the saliva of adults with systemic sclerosis (SSc).

METHODS

Thirteen female adults with SSc were assigned randomly to either the xylitol chewing gum or xylitol mouth rinse groups. Participants in the chewing gum group were given 2 pellets (2.12g) of commercial xylitol chewing gum to chew for 10 min; whereas participants in the mouth rinse group were given 10 ml (10% [w/v]) of xylitol solution to rinse orally for 2 min. MS samples were collected using Dentocult^®SM Strip mutans before and after xylitol exposure.

RESULTS

No significant difference in the change scores of MS levels between the two groups was observed at post xylitol exposure.

CONCLUSIONS

Mouth rinse may provide an alternative mode of xylitol delivery for this population.

Arthritis in systemic sclerosis: systematic review of the literature and suggestions for the performance of future clinical trials in systemic sclerosis arthritis

OBJECTIVES

Musculoskeletal (MSK) pain is a frequent (between 40-80%) complaint of patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc). Unfortunately, there are virtually no systematic studies of the causes or the management of MSK involvement in SSc and with few exceptions there have been no controlled trials to determine what are and should be the best strategies for managing MSK pain and synovitis in patients with SSc.

METHODS

A literature search was conducted for published reports that have addressed the clinical assessment of "arthritis" and "musculoskeletal" involvement in SSc. The literature search was a prelude to developing recommendations/suggestions for performing clinical trials (preferably randomized) in the future in SSc-related arthritis.

RESULTS

The search netted a number of articles that reported clinical assessments of arthritis in SSc, but very few reported results of controlled clinical trials. Nevertheless, a prevalence of clinical arthritis and tools used to assess the involvement (clinical examination, functional assessments and assessments of quality of life, and radiographic imaging) was found.

CONCLUSIONS

Most of the tools used to assess arthritis in SSc patients have not been validated and additional work is needed to develop a "core set" of variables for assessment of arthritis in SSc and its response to treatment. This report furnishes the background information that can help provide the building blocks for the development of a "core set" that can be used to chart the efficacy of new treatments for SSc-related arthritis in the future.

Measuring Pain in Systemic Sclerosis: Comparison of the Short-form McGill Pain Questionnaire Versus a Single-item Measure of Pain

Objective.

Studies of pain in systemic sclerosis (SSc) have used a variety of measures, including single-item measures and the 15-item short-form McGill Pain Questionnaire (MPQ-SF). The objective of our study was to compare the performance of the MPQ-SF to a single-item pain numerical rating scale (NRS) and determine whether the MPQ-SF effectively differentiates between sensory and affective components of pain in SSc.

Methods.

A cross-sectional, multicenter study of 1091 patients from the Canadian Scleroderma Research Group Registry who completed the MPQ-SF and pain NRS. Correlations of MPQ-SF total scores and pain NRS scores with relevant outcome measures (disability, quality of life, depressive symptoms) were compared. To assess whether the MPQ-SF differentiated between sensory and affective factors, confirmatory factor analysis modeling was used, and correlations of sensory and affective factor scores with other outcome measures were compared.

Results.

MPQ-SF total score and the pain NRS correlated similarly with other outcome measures, as did the sensory and affective scores. MPQ-SF sensory and affective factors were highly correlated (0.92), and a single-factor model fit as well as a 2-factor (sensory and affective) model.

Conclusion.

The substantial overlap between sensory and affective subscales of the MPQ-SF and the similarity of the MPQ-SF and NRS pain measures compared to other patient-reported outcomes suggest that the 15-item MPQ-SF does not provide tangible advantages compared to the single-item pain NRS. These findings support recommendations to use a single-item NRS pain measure in SSc as it is less burdensome to patients than the MPQ-SF.

Low-dose naltrexone for pruritus in systemic sclerosis

Pruritus is a common symptom in systemic sclerosis (SSc), an autoimmune disease which causes fibrosis and vasculopathy in skin, lung, and gastrointestinal tract (GIT). Unfortunately, pruritus has limited treatment options in this disease. Pilot trials of low-dose naltrexone hydrochloride (LDN) for pruritus, pain, and quality of life (QOL) in other GIT diseases have been successful. In this case series we report three patients that had significant improvement in pruritus and total GIT symptoms as measured by the 10-point faces scale and the University of California Los Angeles Scleroderma Clinical Trials Consortium Gastrointestinal Tract 2.0 (UCLA SCTC GIT 2.0) questionnaire. This small case series suggests LDN may be an effective, highly tolerable, and inexpensive treatment for pruritus and GIT symptoms in SSc.

Review series: Aspects of interstitial lung disease: connective tissue disease-associated interstitial lung disease: how does it differ from IPF? How should the clinical approach differ?

The lung is frequently involved in connective tissue diseases (CTDs), although the frequency of lung manifestations varies according to the type of CTD. Interstitial lung diseases (ILD) are frequently seen in CTDs, particularly systemic sclerosis (SSc), polymyositis/dermatomyositis (PM/DM) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA), accounting for a significant proportion of deaths. A large percentage of patients with CTD-associated ILD has limited and stable disease, not requiring treatment. However, a significant minority has severe and/or progressive disease, necessitating prompt initiation of treatment. CTD-ILD histological patterns include non-specific interstitial pneumonia (NSIP), usual interstitial pneumonia (UIP), organizing pneumonia (OP), diffuse alveolar damage (DAD) and lymphocytic interstitial pneumonia (LIP). NSIP is the most common pattern in all CTDs, except for RA, characterized by a higher frequency of UIP. ILD can present acutely or chronically, with acute presentations being more common in systemic lupus erythematosus and PM/DM. Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressively worsening ILD characterized by inflammation and fibrosis. The characteristic histological pattern of IPF is UIP. Interestingly, a UIP pattern is associated with a significantly better survival in CTD-related disease compared to the idiopathic variety. Prognosis in IPF is dismal, with a median survival since diagnosis of 2-3 years. No treatment regimen has been shown to improve survival in IPF. By contrast, although there have been only two randomized placebo-controlled trials investigating the effect of immunosuppressive treatment in SSc-associated ILD, clinical experience suggests that immunosuppressive drugs in CTD-related ILDs are capable of benefiting a significant proportion of patients, particularly those with certain histological patterns of disease. This review will essentially focus on CTD-associated ILD and will compare aspects of clinical presentation and management to those of IPF.

Determinants of work disability in patients with systemic sclerosis: a longitudinal study of the GENISOS cohort

OBJECTIVES

To determine the prevalence, correlates, and predictors of work disability (WD) in the Genetics versus ENvironment In Scleroderma Outcome Study (GENISOS). We hypothesized that WD in systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a function of demographic, clinical, and psychosocial factors.

METHODS

Patients enrolled in the GENISOS cohort were subdivided in 3 groups: work disabled, working, and retired or homemakers. The latter group (n = 29) was excluded from further analysis. We used logistic regression analysis with a forward hierarchical variable selection strategy to investigate the independent correlates of WD at enrollment. Cox regression proportional Hazard's model with a similar variable selection strategy was utilized to determine the predictors of WD in those working at enrollment.

RESULTS

Overall, 284 patients with a mean age of 48.7 years and disease duration of 2.5 (±1.6) years were enrolled into the GENISOS cohort, consisting of 83.5% female, 46.8% white, 28.9% Hispanic, and 20.4% African American. Patients were longitudinally followed in 1438 study visits. At enrollment, 124 patients (43.7%) were work disabled, whereas 131 (46.1%) were working. Lower level of education (P < 0.001), higher Medsger Lung Severity Index (P = 0.012), higher Fatigue Severity Score (P = 0.008), and less social support (P < 0.001) correlated independently with WD. Of those working at baseline, 35 (26.7%) eventually developed WD. Non-white ethnicity (P = 0.038), lower DLCO % predicted value (P = 0.038), and higher Fatigue Severity Score (P = 0.009) at enrollment independently predicted WD on follow-up visits.

CONCLUSIONS

WD is a major problem among SSc patients and its prevalence is substantially higher than other rheumatic conditions. Demographic, clinical, and psychosocial factors correlate with WD cross-sectionally and predict WD longitudinally in these patients.

Collagen V and vascular injury promote lung architectural changes in systemic sclerosis

BACKGROUND

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a multisystem disorder characterized by inflammation, fibrosis and vascular damage. The aim of this study was to evaluate the interactions between basement membrane disruption, endothelial injury and collagen V deposition on the vascular wall, as well as their association with pulmonary function tests in patients with SSc.

METHOD

The endothelial apoptosis was assessed by TUNEL and electron microscopy, and quantified through the point-counting technique. To evaluate basement membrane integrity, laminin immunostaining and electron microscopy were used. Immunofluorescence and morphometric analysis were used to determine the amount of collagen V in the vascular walls in 23 open lung biopsies of patients with SSc without pulmonary hypertension. Normal lung tissue was obtained from five individuals who had died of traumatic injuries.

RESULTS

The apoptosis index in SSc was higher in the endothelial cells (13.83 +/- 6.83) when compared with the control (2.51 +/- 2.06) group (P < 0.001) and confirmed by electron microscopy. We observed an important disruption of the basement membrane on the vascular wall shown by discontinuous laminin immunostaining and electron microscopy. An increase in collagen V on the vascular wall of the SSc group was observed (45.28 +/- 13.21), when compared with control group (22.90 +/- 4.13, P < 0.001), and this difference was statistically significant. An inverse correlation was found between vital capacity, forced vital capacity, forced expiratory volume in 1 s, vascular collagen V and endothelial apoptosis (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

We conclude that the endothelial apoptosis and vascular collagen V interaction reinforce the vascular pathway in the SSc pathogenesis. Further studies are needed to determine whether this relationship is causal or consequential.

The Plasminogen Activator System in Fibroblasts from Systemic Sclerosis

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is characterized by excessive fibrosis throughout the body. There are two major subsets of SSc, diffuse cutaneous Systemic sclerosis (dSSc) and limited cutaneous Systemic sclerosis (ISSc). Fibroblasts play a key role in SSc. The expression and function of the urokinase (uPA)-mediated plasminogen activation (PA) system, a well-characterized system of serine-proteases involved in several pathological processes, has been investigated in SSc fibroblasts. The expression of the components of the PA system, including uPA, its type-1 and type-2 inhibitors (PAI-1 and PAI-2) and its receptor (uPAR), was examined by Western blot in fibroblasts from patients affected by limited and diffuse forms of SSc. uPA and PAI-1 secretion increased only in fibroblasts from ISSc lesions compared to normal fibroblasts. PAI-2 levels were decreased in fibroblasts from both SSc forms. Interestingly, fibroblasts from areas not adjacent to the lesions (not-affected) of the diffuse form showed reduced levels of PAI-1 and increased uPAR expression. Adhesion experiments showed reduced adherence to VN of fibroblasts from ISSc lesions and from non-affected areas of the diffuse form, as compared to normal controls. These results suggest a role for uPA and PAI-1 in the ISSc form, likely related to the activation of latent forms of cytokines and to the accumulation of ECM components, whereas a role for uPAR can be hypothesized in the evolvement of the diffuse form, based on its up-regulation in the non-affected areas.

Acute right heart failure and achalasia-like syndrome in a patient with limited cutaneous systemic sclerosis and primary biliary cirrhosis

We report a case of a 63-year-old woman who developed acute right heart failure and an achalasia-like syndrome with limited cutaneous systemic sclerosis (lcSSc) and primary biliary cirrhosis. Intravenous administration of diuretics improved her acute heart failure. Anti-centromere antibodies and anti-mitochondria antibodies were present. A coronary angiogram and a Swan-Ganz catheter revealed no abnormalities. Thallium-201 scan at rest demonstrated mild perfusion defects in both the apex and the anteroseptal and the inferior myocardium. A cine-esophagram revealed an achalasia-like syndrome. Though rare, physicians should be aware that some patients with lcSSc may develop acute right heart failure or achalasia-like syndrome.

Systemic sclerosis sine scleroderma and calcinosis cutis: report of a rare case

Systemic sclerosis sine scleroderma is a rare form of limited cutaneous scleroderma. These patients manifest without cutaneous involvement, but do not differ in its clinical or laboratory features and prognosis from classical systemic sclerosis. In the absence of cutaneous signs/symptoms, its diagnosis is delayed leading to morbidity. The exact prevalence of dystrophic calcification in systemic sclerosis sine scleroderma, though a feature of systemic sclerosis, is not known. Development of dystrophic calcification further aggravates patient's woes. This paper describes systemic sclerosis sine scleroderma in a 17-year-old girl diagnosed initially as seronegative juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. She developed progressively increasing disk-like masses of calcinosis over the gluteal regions, knee, elbow, and ankle joints fixed to the overlying skin associated with malaise, anorexia, and weight loss. There was no Raynaud's phenomenon, dysphagia, dyspnoea, sclerodermatous skin, sclerodactyly, telangectasias, or muscle tenderness/weakness. Digital pitted scars, elevated anticentromere antibody values, esophageal hypomotility, and fluffy calcification in subdermal soft tissues in gluteal regions and around wrist, hip, knees, heels, and ankle joints (without affecting the underlying structures) were detected. Therapy with diltiazem and magnesium/aluminum antacids was useful in resolving calcinosis.

Polymorphisms of the TGF-β1 Promoter in Tight Skin (TSK) Mice

TGF-beta1 plays a major role in fibrotic diseases including scleroderma. Human fibroblasts from sclerotic lesions display an increased sensitivity to TGF-beta1. Similarly, fibroblasts from TSK mice which develop a scleroderma-like syndrome are hyperresponsive to TGF-beta. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether the TGF-beta hypersensitivity demonstrated by TSK/+ fibroblasts is associated with polymorphisms of the TGF-beta1 promoter. Sequence analysis revealed one polymorphism (a G --> T at -1133 bp) unique to the TSK/+ mouse. Transfection of fibroblasts with a 1.8 kb fragment of the TGF-beta1 promoter containing the -1133 polymorphism exhibited increased basal TGF-beta1 promoter activity which was enhanced upon incubation with TGF-beta1. This may be related to the loss of a negative regulatory site in the TSK/+ TGF-beta1 promoter.

Cerebral Vasculopathy Is Associated with Severe Vascular Manifestations in Systemic Sclerosis

Objective.

To investigate brain involvement in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc).

Methods.

Sixty-three patients with SSc fulfilling the American College of Rheumatology and/or Leroy and Medsger criteria were retrospectively studied, including 30 (47.6%) with limited cutaneous and 27 (42.9%) with diffuse cutaneous SSc. Forty-one patients underwent computed tomography (CT) scan and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain, 11 patients only CT scan, and the remaining 11 patients only MRI. Cerebral vasculopathy on MRI and CT scan was defined as absent or mild (score < 1), moderate (1 ≤ score < 2), or severe (score ≥ 2) on a 4-point scale (0 to 3).

Results.

Cerebral vasculopathy was identified on CT scan in 22 patients (moderate in 12 and severe in 10) and on MRI in 38 patients (moderate in 28 and severe in 10). Patients with severe cerebral vasculopathy seen on MRI were more likely to have pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH; p = 0.003) and showed a tendency to have scleroderma renal crisis (SRC; p = 0.25, test for trend p = 0.097). A similar association was found between severe cerebral vasculopathy seen on CT scan and PAH (p = 0.026) or SRC (p = 0.04). After adjusting for age and hypertension, severe cerebral vasculopathy was still associated with increased risk of severe vascular manifestations [odds ratio (OR) 32, 95% confidence interval (CI) 3.45–297, p = 0.002 for CT scan; OR 26, 95% CI 1.71–394, p = 0.019 for MRI].

Conclusion.

Severe cerebral vasculopathy is associated with severe vascular manifestations in SSc patients. SSc patients with severe vascular complications should undergo neuroradiological imaging assessment of brain involvement.

Genetic susceptibility to systemic sclerosis from clinical aspect to genetic factor analyses

BACKGROUND

Systemic sclerosis is a rare autoimmune disease mainly characterized by vascular alteration and fibrosis involving skin but also visceral organs such as lungs, digestive tract, and heart. This disease leads to high morbidity and mortality. Its pathogenesis remains unclear, but recent attention has focus on genetic factors.

OBJECTIVE

We first recall the main manifestations associated with systemic sclerosis and leading to its diagnosis and prognosis. Then we propose an overview on human genetics studies, as a number of genetic loci have been identified that appear to be associated with the disease.

METHODS

Articles concerning association studies with candidate genes encoding for extracellular matrix proteins, cytokines, growth factors, chemokines, and proteins involved in vascular tone and immune regulations are presented and discussed.

RESULTS/CONCLUSION

Systemic sclerosis is a multigenic complex disorder. Genetic associations are observed in distinct phenotypes such as the diffuse cutaneous form or the limited form, or in association with specific autoantibody pattern. Promising candidate genes are those involved in pathways that lead to the vascular damage and fibrosis. A better knowledge of crucial mediators involved in systemic sclerosis could in the future provide new therapeutic strategies to control the disease.

Scleroderma: oral manifestations and treatment challenges

Scleroderma is a connective tissue disorder of excess collagen production characterized by intense fibrosis of the skin, with internal organ involvement. A wide range of oral sequelae-including microstomia, oral mucosal/gingival fibrosis, xerostomia, and mandibular bone resorption-complicates maintenance of oral health and dental treatment. The literature is reviewed, and two cases are presented.

The heart in scleroderma

The heart is one of the major organs involved in scleroderma, the involvement of which can be manifested by myocardial disease, conduction system abnormalities, arrhythmias, or pericardial disease. Additionally, scleroderma renal crisis and pulmonary hypertension lead to significant cardiac dysfunction secondary to damage in the kidney and lung. This article summarizes the types and mechanism of abnormalities in the heart in scleroderma. The concept of cardiac dysfunction in scleroderma and other rheumatologic conditions has received new interest with the advent of newer noninvasive imaging techniques, as well as the interest in detecting subclinical disease. With this increased interest in cardiac manifestations in scleroderma comes the realization that long-term studies are needed to better assess the appropriate screening and treatment in this patient population.

Prevention of vascular damage in scleroderma and autoimmune Raynaud's phenomenon: a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of the angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor quinapril

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of prolonged administration of quinapril, a long-acting angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor, in the management of the peripheral vascular manifestations of limited cutaneous systemic sclerosis (lcSSc) and in the prevention of the progression of visceral organ involvement in the disease.

METHODS

This was a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study evaluating quinapril 80 mg/day, or the maximum tolerated dosage, in 210 patients with lcSSc or with Raynaud's phenomenon (RP) and the presence of SSc-specific antinuclear antibodies. Treatment was for 2-3 years. The primary outcome measure was the number of new ischemic ulcers appearing on the hands; secondary measures were the frequency and severity of RP attacks, skin score, treatments for ischemia, health status (measured by the Short Form 36 instrument), measures of kidney and lung function, and echocardiographic estimates of pulmonary artery pressure. An intent-to-treat analysis was used.

RESULTS

Quinapril did not affect the occurrence of digital ulcers or the frequency or severity of RP episodes. It did not alter the treatments that were prescribed for either infected ulcers or severe RP symptoms. There was no apparent effect on the estimated tricuspid gradient. Health status was not affected by quinapril, and one-half of the patients who believed they had benefited from the trial treatment were in the placebo arm. Quinapril was not tolerated by one-fifth of the patients, with dry cough being the most frequent side effect.

CONCLUSION

Administration of quinapril for up to 3 years had no demonstrable effects on the occurrence of upper limb digital ulcers or on other vascular manifestations of lcSSc in this patient population.

Facial subcutaneous calcinosis and mandibular resorption in systemic sclerosis: a case report

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disease characterized by widespread fibrosis of subcutaneous connective tissue, causing serious complications with the involvement of other systems. Tight, firm skin is the main characteristic of SSc, causing extrinsic pressure and the obliteration of the vessels. This then leads to ischaemia and destruction of the underlying bone. This mechanism may also lead to bone resorption of the mandibular body as it affects other bones of the skeleton. To date, only two cases of reported calcinosis in the facial area have been observed. In this report, a rare case of SSc with both subcutaneous calcinosis and mandibular bone resorption is presented. The role of dental practitioners in the diagnosis of the disease with respect to the orofacial symptoms is also discussed.

Pulmonary arterial hypertension in systemic sclerosis: the need for early detection and treatment

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is an important cause of mortality in systemic sclerosis (SSc). The symptoms are non-specific and can be ascribed to other features of the disease, so it is often underrecognized until the late stages. Earlier treatment with new agents is associated with better treatment outcomes. The aim of this article is to develop evidence-based guidelines for screening for PAH and interstitial lung disease (ILD) in SSc. PAH occurs in up to 27% of patients with SSc. Abnormal pulmonary function, particularly a disproportionate fall in carbon monoxide diffusing capacity (DLCO), can identify patients in the early stages of PAH, prompting further investigation in high-risk patients (limited SSc of >10 years' duration, symptoms and/or signs of PAH, DLCO <50% predicted, a rapid or large fall in DLCO without evidence of ILD and/or estimated systolic pulmonary artery pressure >45 mmHg on echocardiography). Right heart catheter remains the diagnostic gold standard. An algorithm for screening with regular pulmonary function tests for the early detection of PAH and ILD in SSc is proposed.

[Systemic sclerosis - diagnosis and classification]

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a polymorphic and heterogenic systemic disorder with inflammation, fibrosis and vascular damage. Early diagnosis and classification may be difficult if disease expression is oligosymptomatic (undifferentiated), presenting with only Raynaud's phenomenon or limited scleroderma. Scleroderma specific antinuclear autoantibodies, which are present early and persistently in about 90% of the patients with SSc, play an important taxonomic role. Scleroderma specific findings in nailfold capillary microscopy are sensitive and predictive for evolving SSc. An algorithm will be presented for the diagnosis and classification of SSc using clinical, capillaroscopic and serologic criteria, which are also useful for mixed or special forms of SSc. The 6th Outcome Measures in Rheumatology Clinical Trials (OMERACT) conference proposed different outcome measurements for clinical studies, however, for daily clinical practice there is as yet no consensus on status indices for disease activity, disease related damage or suitable prognostic criteria.

Esophageal involvement in scleroderma: gastroesophageal reflux, the common problem

OBJECTIVES

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a multisystem disease characterized by abnormalities of small blood vessels, and fibrosis of the skin and internal organs including gastrointestinal tract. This article reviews the esophageal involvement in SSc, emphasizing the gastroesophageal reflux, which is a common problem in SSc patients.

METHODS

We conducted a Medline search from 1966 to 2005. The keywords "systemic sclerosis," "esophageal involvement," "gastroesophageal reflux," "esophagitis," and "treatment" were used.

RESULTS

The gastrointestinal tract is frequently affected in diffuse and limited disease. Although any part of the gastrointestinal tract can be involved, esophageal disease occurs in nearly all patients with SSc. Common esophageal manifestations in SSc include motility abnormalities and gastroesophageal reflux (GER), Barrett's esophagus, adenocarcinoma, infectious esophagitis, and drug-induced esophagitis. Common complications of GER include esophagitis with erosions and bleeding and stricture formation. Extraesophageal manifestations of GER include mouth ulcers, chronic cough, hoarse voice, sore throat, pharyngitis, laryngospasm, asthma, and recurrent pneumonia. Diagnostic procedures used in the investigation of esophageal involvement include barium esophagram, esophageal manometry, 24-hour ambulatory pH, and endoscopy. Treatment of GER in SSc includes behavioral modification and medical therapy, mainly with proton pump inhibitors. Surgical intervention has a limited role in the management of GER in selected SSc patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Esophageal involvement is frequent in SSc patients. Gastroesophageal reflux may cause high morbidity. Careful examination of the patients reveals gastrointestinal abnormalities even in patients without symptoms. Appropriate treatment of esophageal involvement ameliorates symptoms and prevents complications.

Association of an irregularly shaped anterior choroidal aneurysm with CREST syndrome

✓ The authors present the case of a 50-year-old woman with a history of CREST syndrome (calcinosis, Raynaud phenomenon, esophageal motility disorders, sclerodactyly, and telangiectasia), a variant of scleroderma, who was incidentally found to have an irregular intracranial aneurysm.

The patient presented with migraine headaches. A magnetic resonance image of the brain obtained during the headache workup revealed a right posterior carotid artery wall aneurysm in the region of the anterior choroidal artery (AChA). On digital subtraction angiograms, the lesion measured 3.5 mm at its largest diameter.

Because of the irregular shape of the aneurysm, the patient's relatively young age, and the potential for further aneurysm growth due to collagen disease, surgical clip application was recommended following a discussion of available treatment options. At surgery, the aneurysm was identified as bilobed and broad based, and the AChA was found to be associated with the aneurysm neck. Satisfactory clipping of the aneurysm was achieved with preservation of the parent vessels.

An association of CREST syndrome with intracranial aneurysms has only been reported once before. This case is presented to draw attention to the possibility of a pathophysiological connection between CREST syndrome and intracranial aneurysms and to postulate a possible mechanism whereby this condition may result in aneurysm formation. The association of aneurysms with other pathological collagen-related conditions is well known, and literature relevant to a possible connection between CREST syndrome and aneurysms is reviewed and discussed.

A new era in the management of pulmonary arterial hypertension related to scleroderma: endothelin receptor antagonism

Evidence suggests that endothelin may have a fundamental role in scleroderma pathogenesis, including pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH)--a leading cause of death in patients with scleroderma. Development of a new class of drug, endothelin receptor antagonists, heralds an improved outlook for patients with scleroderma and related diseases. Heightened vigilance towards early detection of PAH in scleroderma and a multidisciplinary approach to diagnosis and treatment may improve clinical outcomes for these patients.

Latency-Associated Peptide Prevents Skin Fibrosis in Murine Sclerodermatous Graft-Versus-Host Disease, a Model for Human Scleroderma

Murine sclerodermatous graft-versus-host disease (Scl GVHD), produced by transplanting B10.D2 bone marrow and spleen cells to lethally irradiated BALB/cJ mice, is a model for human scleroderma. Mice with Scl GVHD have skin thickening, lung fibrosis, cutaneous mononuclear cell infiltration, and upregulation of cutaneous transforming growth factor beta1 (TGF-beta1) and type I collagen mRNAs by day 21 after bone marrow transplantation. Elevated TGF-beta1 appears to be the critical cytokine driving fibrosis in Scl GVHD, which can be prevented with antibodies to TGF-beta administered early in disease. Here we demonstrate that we can also prevent skin thickening in mice with Scl GVHD with a naturally occurring antagonist to TGF-beta1, human latency-associated peptide (LAP). By quantitative real-time PCR analysis and immunostaining, LAP treatment also abrogates the upregulation of cutaneous TGF-beta1 and connective tissue growth factor mRNAs and type I collagen synthesis in Scl GVHD. In contrast to anti-TGF-beta antibodies, LAP at 4 ng total per mouse has no significant suppressive effect on cutaneous influx of T cells and monocytes or immune cell activation. LAP may be a potential new therapy in scleroderma and other TGF-beta-driven fibrosing disease that targets TGF-beta more specifically, without affecting systemic critical roles of TGF-beta on immune cell function.

Limited versus severe Wegener's granulomatosis: baseline data on patients in the Wegener's granulomatosis etanercept trial

OBJECTIVE

To report baseline data on 180 patients with Wegener's granulomatosis (WG) enrolled in the WG Etanercept Trial (WGET), and to examine demographic and clinical differences between patients with limited disease and those with severe disease.

METHODS

Definitions of limited and severe disease were agreed upon by consensus of the investigators at a pretrial meeting and were incorporated into the protocol as a stratification criterion. These data were applied prospectively to the WGET patient cohort, based on clinical features and the intention to treat patients according to disease activity. Data related to disease onset, date of diagnosis, clinical features, antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody assays, tissue biopsy findings, and other medical history were collected on a baseline medical history form. Physician-investigators from each center participated in the development of this form, and all were certified in its use prior to the start of the trial. Selected data on patients who were screened for the trial but were not enrolled were also collected.

RESULTS

Several significant differences between the limited and severe disease subsets were observed. Patients with limited disease were nearly a decade younger at disease onset compared with patients with severe disease. Thirty-three percent of patients with severe disease were women, compared with 58% of those with limited disease. Despite their younger age at symptom onset, patients with limited disease tended to have longer disease duration, a greater likelihood of experiencing exacerbation of previous disease following a period of remission, and a higher prevalence of destructive upper respiratory tract disorders at the time of enrollment (e.g., saddle-nose deformity). Patients with limited WG were less likely than those with severe disease to have antibodies to either proteinase 3 or myeloperoxidase. Patients with severe disease had a higher likelihood of previous thyroid disease, particularly either Graves' disease or Hashimoto thyroiditis, suggesting the possibility of different pathogenetic factors within these disease subsets. Other observed differences between these subsets, such as the greater frequency of alveolar hemorrhage in the severe disease group, were related to the a priori definitions of limited and severe disease.

CONCLUSION

There are significant differences between patients with limited WG and those with severe WG with regard to sex, age, the likelihood of recurrent disease, the risk of damage in certain organ systems, and, possibly, etiologic factors. These differences (and perhaps other differences that are currently unrecognized) in patient subsets may have implications for mechanisms of pathogenesis, prognosis, response to treatment, and the design of future clinical investigations.

Pulmonary arterial hypertension: a new era in management

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a heterogeneous condition with a wide range of causes. The diagnosis is often delayed or missed. PAH is covert in its early stages, when its detection and treatment should have the most impact. Access in Australia to effective PAH therapies has lagged behind that in other affluent countries. New agents for PAH, now becoming available, improve symptoms and reduce pulmonary resistance, with some demonstrating an ability to reverse remodelling of the right ventricle. Best management of PAH is comprehensive and multidisciplinary. Centres of excellence are needed in geographically strategic areas. Aggressive efforts must be made to diagnose PAH and to facilitate access to effective therapies.

Halofuginone inhibition of COL1A2 promoter activity via a c-Jun-dependent mechanism

OBJECTIVE

The naturally occurring compound halofuginone has been shown to antagonize collagen synthesis by fibroblasts both in vitro and in vivo. We previously demonstrated that this inhibitory property was related to the ability of halofuginone to disrupt transforming growth factor beta signal transduction. The present study further analyzed the ability of halofuginone to affect transcription factors that can regulate type I collagen gene expression by examining its effect on c-Jun, the negative regulator of collagen gene transcription.

METHODS

The phosphorylation state of c-Jun in the presence of halofuginone was examined via direct Western blotting, and the transcriptional activity of the activator protein 1 (AP-1) binding element via electrophoretic mobility shift assay and luciferase reporter assay. We determined whether the effect of halofuginone on collagen synthesis was dependent on the presence of c-Jun by ectopic expression of a wild-type or dominant-negative c-Jun construct in the presence of halofuginone and assaying alpha2(I) collagen promoter strength via luciferase reporter assay. The effect of halofuginone on alpha2(I) collagen message levels in fibroblasts when wild-type or dominant-negative c-Jun was overexpressed was determined. We also determined whether halofuginone had an effect on the phosphorylation state of c-Jun in the skin of TSK/+ mice via immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

Treatment of fibroblasts with 10(-8)M halofuginone enhanced basal and mitogen-mediated phosphorylation of c-Jun in culture. This elevated phosphorylation of c-Jun correlated with enhanced DNA binding and transcriptional activation of an AP-1 complex consisting of c-Jun and Fos but lacking the c-Jun antagonist JunB. Overexpression of c-Jun enhanced in a dose-dependent manner the ability of halofuginone to inhibit the activity of a luciferase reporter construct under control of the -3200-bp to +54-bp COL1A2 promoter, whereas the expression of a dominant-negative c-Jun construct abolished this effect. Northern blotting showed that overexpression of c-Jun enhanced the ability of halofuginone to reduce collagen alpha2(I) messenger RNA levels in fibroblasts, whereas expression of the dominant-negative c-Jun abolished this effect. Topical administration of a halofuginone-containing cream for 20 days to TSK mice, which spontaneously develop dermal fibrosis, greatly increased the phosphorylated form of c-Jun in the skin; this was followed by a decrease in skin thickness and type I collagen messenger RNA expression.

CONCLUSION

Our findings illustrate the powerful down-regulatory property of c-Jun toward type I collagen and establish that halofuginone exerts its effect on collagen synthesis in a c-Jun-dependent manner.