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Matsumoto T, Sugihara T, Hosoya T, Ishizaki T, Kubo K, Kamiya M, Baba H, Tsuchida M, Hirano F, Kojima M, Miyasaka N, Harigai M. Effectiveness and safety of treat-to-target strategy for methotrexate-naïve rheumatoid arthritis patients >75 years of age. Rheumatol Adv Pract 2024; 8:rkae019. [PMID: 38425693 PMCID: PMC10904149 DOI: 10.1093/rap/rkae019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Objectives To identify differences in effectiveness and safety of a treat-to-target (T2T) strategy comparing late-onset MTX-naïve RA patients (LORA) ≥75 or <75 years of age. Methods Treatment was adjusted to target low disease activity with conventional synthetic DMARDs followed by biologic DMARDs (bDMARDs) in LORA ≥75 years (n = 98, mean age 80.0 years) and LORA <75 years (n = 99) with moderate-high disease activity. Achievement of Simplified Disease Activity Index (SDAI) remission at week 156 by non-responder imputation analysis was evaluated as a primary outcome. Results LORA ≥75 years had more comorbidities than LORA <75 years, but SDAI and ACPA positivity were similar at baseline. Of the LORA ≥75 years, 70.4% started MTX and 34.1% and 37.1% received a bDMARD at week 52 and 156, respectively (very similar to the LORA <75 years). Glucocorticoid use was more frequent in the LORA ≥75 years than in the LORA <75 years. Comorbidities/adverse events more frequently contributed to the reasons for non-adherence to T2T in the LORA ≥75 than in the LORA <75. At week 156, 32.7% of the LORA ≥75 and 66.7% of the LORA <75 achieved SDAI remission (P < 0.001). The cumulative incidence of serious adverse events (SAEs) over 156 weeks was 42.8% in the LORA ≥75 and 22.1% in the LORA <75. Multivariable analysis indicated an increased risk of SDAI non-remission at week 156 in the LORA ≥75 [odds ratio 2.82 (95% CI 1.29. 6.14)] after adjusting for comorbidities at baseline, non-adherence to T2T and SAEs. Conclusions It was more difficult to achieve remission in the LORA ≥75 patients than in the LORA <75 patients due to both poor treatment response and safety issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takumi Matsumoto
- Department of Medicine and Rheumatology, Tokyo Metropolitan Geriatric Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Rheumatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takahiko Sugihara
- Department of Medicine and Rheumatology, Tokyo Metropolitan Geriatric Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Rheumatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
- Human Care Research Team, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology, Tokyo, Japan
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Toho University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tadashi Hosoya
- Department of Medicine and Rheumatology, Tokyo Metropolitan Geriatric Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Rheumatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tatsuro Ishizaki
- Human Care Research Team, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kanae Kubo
- Department of Medicine and Rheumatology, Tokyo Metropolitan Geriatric Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mari Kamiya
- Department of Medicine and Rheumatology, Tokyo Metropolitan Geriatric Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Rheumatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Baba
- Department of Medicine and Rheumatology, Tokyo Metropolitan Geriatric Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Rheumatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Marina Tsuchida
- Department of Medicine and Rheumatology, Tokyo Metropolitan Geriatric Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Rheumatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Fumio Hirano
- Department of Medicine and Rheumatology, Tokyo Metropolitan Geriatric Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Rheumatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masayo Kojima
- Department of Frailty Research, Center for Gerontology and Social Science, National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Obu, Japan
| | - Nobuyuki Miyasaka
- Department of Rheumatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masayoshi Harigai
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tokyo Women’s Medical University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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2
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Hebing RCF, Bartelink IH, Gosselt HR, Heil SG, de Rotte MCFJ, de Jong PHP, Nurmohamed MT, de Jonge R, Mathôt RAA. Methotrexate Polyglutamates Exposure - Response Modeling in a Large Cohort of Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients Starting Methotrexate. Clin Pharmacol Ther 2023; 114:893-903. [PMID: 37313979 DOI: 10.1002/cpt.2974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Methotrexate polyglutamates (MTX-PG) concentrations in red blood cells (RBCs) have been suggested as a biomarker of response in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) receiving low-dose MTX therapy. We investigated the association and interpatient variability between RBC-MTX-PG3-5 -exposure and response in patients with RA starting MTX. Data of three prospective cohorts were available. The relationship between exposure and Disease Activity Score in 28 joints (DAS28) was analyzed using a population pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic model. Relevant covariates were tested using full covariate modeling and backward elimination. From 395 patients, 3,401 MTX-PG concentrations and 1,337 DAS28 measurements were available between 0 and 300 days after MTX treatment onset. The developed model adequately described the time course of MTX-PG3-5 and DAS28. The median MTX-PG3-5 level at month 1 was 30.9 nmol/L (interquartile range (IQR): 23.6-43.7; n = 41) and at month 3: 69.3 nmol/L (IQR: 17.9-41.2; n = 351). Clearance of MTX-PG3-5 from RBCs was 28% lower (95% confidence interval (CI): 23.6-32.8%) in a woman and 10% lower (95% CI: 7.7-12.4%) in a 65-year-old compared with a 35-year-old patient. MTX-PG3-5 concentrations associated with DAS28: half-maximal effective concentration (EC50 ) was 9.14 nmol/L (95% CI: 4.2 nmol/L-14.1 nmol/L). EF at 80% (EC80 ) above 47 nmol/L was regarded as the optimal response. Independent of the MTX-PG 3-5 - response association, co-administration of disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs and corticosteroids improved response (additive effect on maximum effect (Emax )), whereas smoking, high body mass index and low albumin decreased Emax . In patients with RA starting MTX, RBC-MTX-PG3-5 was associated with clinical response. A dose increase is suggested when MTX-PG3-5 at month 1 is below 9.15 nmol/L, continued with the same dose when the concentration is above 47 nmol/L, and consider other treatment options above 78 nmol/L from 3 months onwards.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renske C F Hebing
- Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Center, Amsterdam UMC Location Reade, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Imke H Bartelink
- Department of Hospital Pharmacy and Clinical Pharmacology, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Helen R Gosselt
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Amsterdam University Medical Center - Location VUmc, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sandra G Heil
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Mauritis C F J de Rotte
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Pascal H P de Jong
- Department of Rheumatology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Mike T Nurmohamed
- Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Center, Amsterdam UMC Location Reade, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Robert de Jonge
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Amsterdam University Medical Center - Location VUmc, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ron A A Mathôt
- Department of Hospital Pharmacy and Clinical Pharmacology, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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3
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Hebing RC, Lin M, Bulatovic Calasan M, Muller IB, Mahmoud S, Heil S, Struys EA, van den Bemt BJ, Twisk JW, Lems W, Nurmohamed MT, Jansen G, de Jonge R. Pharmacokinetics of oral and subcutaneous methotrexate in red and white blood cells in patients with early rheumatoid arthritis: the methotrexate monitoring trial. Ann Rheum Dis 2023; 82:460-467. [PMID: 36543526 DOI: 10.1136/ard-2022-223398] [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: 09/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the pharmacokinetics of methotrexate polyglutamate (MTX-PG) accumulation in red blood cells (RBCs) and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) in patients with early rheumatoid arthritis (RA) after oral and subcutaneous MTX treatment. METHODS In a clinical prospective cohort study (Methotrexate Monitoring study), newly diagnosed patients with RA were randomised for oral or subcutaneous MTX. At 1, 2, 3 and 6 months after therapy initiation, blood was collected and RBCs and PBMCs were isolated. MTX-PG1-6 concentrations were determined by mass spectrometry methods using stable isotopes of MTX-PG1-6 as internal standards. RESULTS 43 patients (mean age: 58.5 years, 77% female) were included. PBMCs and RBCs revealed disparate pharmacokinetic profiles in both absolute MTX-PG accumulation levels and distribution profiles. Intracellular MTX-PG accumulation in PBMCs was significantly (p<0.001) 10-fold to 20-fold higher than RBCs at all time points, regardless of the administration route. MTX-PG distribution in PBMCs was composed of mostly MTX-PG1 (PG1>PG2>PG3). Remarkably, the distribution profile in PBMCs remained constant over 6 months. RBCs accumulated mainly MTX-PG1 and lower levels of MTX-PG2-5 at t=1 month. After 3 months, MTX-PG3 was the main PG-moiety in RBCs, a profile retained after 6 months of MTX therapy. Subcutaneous MTX administration results in higher RBC drug levels than after oral administration, especially shortly after treatment initiation. CONCLUSIONS This is the first study reporting disparate MTX-PG accumulation profiles in RBCs versus PBMCs in newly diagnosed patients with RA during 6 months oral or subcutaneous MTX administration. This analysis can contribute to improved MTX therapeutic drug monitoring for patients with RA. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NTR 7149.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renske Cf Hebing
- Reade, Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Rheumatology, Amsterdam UMC VUMC Site, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marry Lin
- Clinical Chemistry, Amsterdam UMC VUMC Site, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Maja Bulatovic Calasan
- Clinical Chemistry, Amsterdam UMC VUMC Site, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Ittai B Muller
- Clinical Chemistry, Amsterdam UMC VUMC Site, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sohaila Mahmoud
- Reade, Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sandra Heil
- Clinical Chemistry, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Eduard A Struys
- Clinical Chemistry, Amsterdam UMC VUMC Site, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Jos Wr Twisk
- Methodology and Applied Biostatistics, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Willem Lems
- Reade, Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Rheumatology, Amsterdam UMC VUMC Site, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Michael T Nurmohamed
- Reade, Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Rheumatology, Amsterdam UMC VUMC Site, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Gerrit Jansen
- Rheumatology, Amsterdam UMC VUMC Site, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Robert de Jonge
- Clinical Chemistry, Amsterdam UMC VUMC Site, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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4
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Bergstra SA, Sepriano A, Kerschbaumer A, van der Heijde D, Caporali R, Edwards CJ, Verschueren P, de Souza S, Pope JE, Takeuchi T, Hyrich KL, Winthrop KL, Aletaha D, Stamm TA, Schoones JW, Smolen JS, Landewé RBM. Efficacy, duration of use and safety of glucocorticoids: a systematic literature review informing the 2022 update of the EULAR recommendations for the management of rheumatoid arthritis. Ann Rheum Dis 2023; 82:81-94. [PMID: 36410794 DOI: 10.1136/ard-2022-223358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
This systematic literature review (SLR) regarding the efficacy, duration of use and safety of glucocorticoids (GCs), was performed to inform the 2022 update of the EULAR recommendations for the management of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Studies on GC efficacy were identified from a separate search on the efficacy of disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). A combined search was performed for the duration of use and safety of GCs in RA patients. Dose-defined and time-defined GC treatment of any dose and duration (excluding intra-articular GCs) prescribed in combination with other DMARDs were considered. Results are presented descriptively. Two included studies confirmed the efficacy of GC bridging as initial therapy, with equal efficacy after 2 years of initial doses of 30 mg/day compared with 60 mg/day prednisone. Based on a recently performed SLR, in clinical trials most patients starting initial GC bridging are able to stop GCs within 12 (22% patients continued on GCs) to 24 months (10% patients continued on GCs). The safety search included 12 RCTs and 21 observational studies. Well-known safety risks of GC use were confirmed, including an increased risk of osteoporotic fractures, serious infections, diabetes and mortality. Data on cardiovascular outcomes were Inconsistent. Overall, safety risks increased with increasing dose and/or duration, but evidence on which dose is safe was conflicting. In conclusion, this SLR has confirmed the efficacy of GCs in the treatment of RA. In clinical trials, most patients have shown to be able to stop GCs within 12-24 months. Well-known safety risks of GC use have been confirmed, but with heterogeneity between studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sytske Anne Bergstra
- Department of Rheumatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Alexandre Sepriano
- Department of Rheumatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.,NOVA Medical School, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Andreas Kerschbaumer
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine 3, Medical University of Vienna, Wien, Austria
| | | | - Roberto Caporali
- University of Milan, Milan and Department of Rheumatology, ASST PINI-CTO, Milano, Italy
| | - Christopher John Edwards
- NIHR Southampton Clinical Research Facility, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
| | - Patrick Verschueren
- Department of rheumatology, KU Leuven University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Savia de Souza
- EULAR Patient Research Partner Network, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Janet E Pope
- University of Western Ontario, Schulich School of Medicine, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Tsutomu Takeuchi
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine Graduate School of Medicine, Shinjuku-ku, Japan.,Saitama Medical University, Iruma-gun, Saitama, Japan
| | - Kimme L Hyrich
- Centre for Epidemiology Versus Arthritis, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.,NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre, Manchester University NHS Trust, UK
| | | | - Daniel Aletaha
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine 3, Medical University of Vienna, Wien, Austria
| | - Tanja A Stamm
- Section for Outcomes Research, Centre for Medical Statistics, Informatics, and Intelligent Systems, Medical University of Vienna, Wien, Austria.,Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Arthritis and Rehabilitation, Vienna, Austria
| | - Jan W Schoones
- Walaeus Library, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Josef S Smolen
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine 3, Medical University of Vienna, Wien, Austria.,2nd Department of Medicine, Hietzing Hospital, Wien, Austria
| | - Robert B M Landewé
- Amsterdam Rheumatology Center, Amsterdam University Medical Centres, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Rheumatology, Zuyderland Medical Centre Heerlen, Heerlen, The Netherlands
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5
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Samanta J, Amudalapalli A, Shukla A, Harish BV, Gadde S, Sahoo RR, Patro PS. Optimal bridging strategy in active early rheumatoid arthritis: a bridge falling short? Comment on the article by Krause et al. Arthritis Rheumatol 2022; 74:2044. [PMID: 35818723 DOI: 10.1002/art.42302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Joydeep Samanta
- Department of Rheumatology, Institute of Medical Sciences and SUM Hospital, Bhubaneswar, India
| | - Alekhya Amudalapalli
- Department of Rheumatology, Institute of Medical Sciences and SUM Hospital, Bhubaneswar, India
| | - Ashlesha Shukla
- Department of Rheumatology, Institute of Medical Sciences and SUM Hospital, Bhubaneswar, India
| | - B V Harish
- Department of Rheumatology, Institute of Medical Sciences and SUM Hospital, Bhubaneswar, India
| | - Sudhish Gadde
- Department of Rheumatology, Institute of Medical Sciences and SUM Hospital, Bhubaneswar, India
| | - Rasmi R Sahoo
- Department of Rheumatology, Institute of Medical Sciences and SUM Hospital, Bhubaneswar, India
| | - Pradeepta S Patro
- Department of Rheumatology, Institute of Medical Sciences and SUM Hospital, Bhubaneswar, India
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6
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Rodríguez-Báez AS, Huerta-García AP, Medellín-Garibay SE, Rodríguez-Pinal CJ, Martínez-Martínez MU, Herrera-Van Oostdam D, Abud-Mendoza C, Romano-Moreno S, Milán-Segovia RDC. Disease activity and therapeutic drug monitoring of polyglutamates of methotrexate after daily or weekly administration of low-dose methotrexate in patients recently diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol 2022; 130:644-654. [PMID: 35365958 DOI: 10.1111/bcpt.13728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Revised: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Low-dose methotrexate can be challenging to treat rheumatoid arthritis due to side effects, lack of adherence and risk of medication errors. The aim of this study was to explore the safety and efficacy of low-dose methotrexate administered daily or weekly in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Patients were randomized according to a total oral dose of 12.5 mg of methotrexate administered: (A) divided in 5 days/week and (B) once per week. Patients were assessed along 24 weeks after starting treatment. Polyglutamates of methotrexate were quantified by ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometer. Patients from groups A and B showed a good response to methotrexate treatment in 29% and 25.5%, respectively, and a global frequency of adverse events of 37%. Methotrexate polyglutamate 3 concentrations were higher in normal weight (body mass index 18.5-24.9 kg/m2 ) than in obese (body mass index 30 kg/m2 ) patients with a median (interquartile range) of 28 (17.95-45.15) and 10.35 (5.22-30.88) nM without differences between dosage groups. Daily dosage regimen represents a therapeutic alternative without compromising the efficacy and safety of methotrexate treatment and with similar adherence patterns than weekly dosage regimen; further, methotrexate polyglutamate 3 concentrations could be a useful tool for therapeutic drug monitoring purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - David Herrera-Van Oostdam
- Departamento de Reumatología, Hospital Central "Dr. Ignacio Morones Prieto", San Luis Potosí, Mexico
| | - Carlos Abud-Mendoza
- Departamento de Reumatología, Hospital Central "Dr. Ignacio Morones Prieto", San Luis Potosí, Mexico
| | - Silvia Romano-Moreno
- Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí, San Luis Potosí, Mexico
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7
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van Ouwerkerk L, Palmowski A, Nevins IS, Buttgereit F, Verschueren P, Smolen JS, Landewé RB, Bijlsma JJ, Kerschbaumer A, Westhovens R, Huizinga TW, Allaart CF, Bergstra SA. Systematic literature review of observational cohorts and clinical trials into the success rate of glucocorticoid discontinuation after their use as bridging therapy in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Ann Rheum Dis 2022; 81:937-943. [PMID: 35470162 DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2022-222338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the success rate of glucocorticoid (GC) discontinuation during follow-up in observational cohorts and clinical trials using temporary GC as part of initial therapy ('bridging') in newly diagnosed patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). METHODS Systematic literature searches were conducted to identify observational cohorts and clinical trials including patients with RA treated with initial GC bridging therapy, defined as discontinuation of GC within 1 year. Patient percentages still using GC were considered the reverse of successful discontinuation. Random effects meta-analyses were performed stratified by time point. RESULTS The scoping literature search for observational cohort studies could not identify studies answering the research question. The literature search for clinical trials identified 7160 abstracts, resulting in 10 included studies, with varying type and dose of GC and varying tapering schedules, of which 4 reported sufficient data on GC discontinuation or use after the bridging phase. The pooled proportion of patients who were still or again using GC was 22% (95% CI 8% to 37%, based on four trials) at 12 months and 10% at 24 months (95% CI -1 to 22, based on two trials). Heterogeneity was substantial (I²≥65%). CONCLUSION The success rate of GC discontinuation after bridging as part of initial treatment of RA has been described in a limited number of studies. Reports on observational cohorts did not answer the research question. In clinical trials, protocolised discontinuation was mostly successful, although 22% of the patients who started GC bridging therapy still or again used GC at 12 months, and 10% at 24 months.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Andriko Palmowski
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charite Universitatsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Isabell S Nevins
- Rheumatology, Leiden Universitair Medisch Centrum, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Frank Buttgereit
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charite Universitatsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Josef S Smolen
- Rheumatology, Medical University of Vienna, Wien, Austria
| | - Robert Bm Landewé
- Amsterdam Rheumatology Center, AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Rheumatology, Zuyderland Medical Centre Heerlen, Heerlen, The Netherlands
| | - Johannes Jw Bijlsma
- Department of Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - René Westhovens
- Rheumatology, KU Leuven University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Tom Wj Huizinga
- Rheumatology, Leiden Universitair Medisch Centrum, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Cornelia F Allaart
- Rheumatology, Leiden Universitair Medisch Centrum, Leiden, The Netherlands
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8
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Scapaticci M, Bartolini A, Biscaro M, Biscaro R, Da Rin G. Interleukin-6 and Serum/Fecal Calprotectin as Useful Specific Markers for Monitoring Rheumatic Diseases: A Pilot Study. Lab Med 2021; 53:123-127. [PMID: 34405886 DOI: 10.1093/labmed/lmab034] [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: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Some conventional laboratory tests are routinely used for the prediction of systemic autoimmune disease activity, such as the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and C-reactive protein (CRP); however, they can give false-negative results, pointing out the need to identify more specific markers. METHODS We evaluated biomarkers in 21 Italian patients naïve to treatment with a diagnosis of autoimmune rheumatic disease according to the 2010 American College of Rheumatology/European League Against Rheumatism Classification Criteria for Rheumatoid Arthritis during 6 months of therapeutic treatments. RESULTS We found a significant difference in interleukin-6 (IL-6), CRP, ESR, platelet count, and fecal calprotectin in diagnosed patients compared with healthy participants and a significant decrease in these values during follow-up, except for IL-6 and platelet count. CONCLUSION We found that CRP, ESR, and fecal calprotectin seemed to be related to autoimmune rheumatic disorders and to be associated with therapy, whereas serum calprotectin and IL-6 did not seem to be associated with disease improvement after the start of treatment, along with leukocyte count and platelet count.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Marta Biscaro
- Rheumatology Department, San Camillo Hospital, Treviso, Italy
| | - Renzo Biscaro
- Rheumatology Department, San Camillo Hospital, Treviso, Italy
| | - Giorgio Da Rin
- Laboratory Medicine, IRCCS Policlinico San Martino Hospital, Genova, Italy
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9
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Luurssen-Masurel N, Weel AEAM, Hazes JMW, de Jong PHP. The impact of different (rheumatoid) arthritis phenotypes on patients' lives. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2021; 60:3716-3726. [PMID: 33237330 PMCID: PMC8328508 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keaa845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Revised: 11/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives To compare patient-reported outcome (PRO) domains between three arthritis phenotypes [undifferentiated arthritis (UA), autoantibody-negative RA (RA−) and autoantibody-positive RA (RA+)] at diagnosis, after 2 years and over time. Methods All UA (n = 130), RA− (n = 176) and RA+ (n = 331) patients from the tREACH trial, a stratified single-blinded trial with a treat-to-target approach, were used. PRO comparisons between phenotypes at baseline and after 2 years were performed with analysis of variance, while a linear mixed model compared them over time. Effect sizes were weighted against the minimal clinically important differences (MCIDs) for each PRO. Results RA− patients had a higher disease burden compared with RA+ and UA. At baseline and after 2 years, RA− patients had more functional impairment and a poorer Physical Component Summary (PCS) compared with the other phenotypes, while they only scored worse for general health and morning stiffness duration at baseline. The MCIDs were exceeded at baseline, except for functional ability between RA+ and UA, while after 2 years only the MCID of the PCS was exceeded by RA− compared with UA and RA. After 2 years the PROs of all phenotypes improved, but PROs measuring functioning were still worse compared with the general population, even when patients had low disease activity. Conclusion RA− patients had the highest disease burden of all phenotypes. Although most patients have low disease activity after treatment, all clinical phenotypes still have a similar significant impact on patients’ lives, which is mainly physical. Therefore it is important to assess and address PROs in daily practice because of persistent disease burden despite low disease activity. Trial registration ISRCTN26791028.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Angelique Elisabeth Adriana Maria Weel
- Department of Rheumatology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology, Maasstad Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.,Erasmus School of Health Policy and Management, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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10
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Lucassen MJJ, Ter Wee MM, den Uyl D, Konijn NPC, Nurmohamed MT, Voskuyl AE, van Schaardenburg D, Kerstens PJSM, Bultink IEM, Boers M, Lems WF. Long-term effects on bone mineral density after four years of treatment with two intensive combination strategies, including initially high-dose prednisolone, in early rheumatoid arthritis patients: the COBRA-light trial. Osteoporos Int 2021; 32:1441-1449. [PMID: 33464392 PMCID: PMC8192358 DOI: 10.1007/s00198-020-05781-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED In this study, no difference in bone loss was observed between patients with early RA initially treated with COmbinatietherapie Bij Reumatoide Artritis (COBRA) (including initially 60 mg/day prednisolone) and patients treated with COBRA-light (including initially 30 mg/day prednisolone) during 4-year observation. PURPOSE To assess changes in bone mineral density (BMD) after 4 years in early rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients initially treated with COBRA-light or COBRA therapy. METHODS In a 1 year, open-label, randomised, non-inferiority trial, patients were assigned to COBRA-light (methotrexate 25 mg/week plus initially prednisolone 30 mg/day) or COBRA (methotrexate 7.5 mg/week, sulfasalazine 2 g/day plus initially prednisolone 60 mg/day) therapy. After 1 year, antirheumatic treatment was at the discretion of treating rheumatologists. BMD was measured at baseline and after 1, 2 and 4 years at hips and lumbar spine with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. BMD changes between treatment strategies on average over time were compared with GEE analysis. RESULTS Data from 155 out of 162 patients could be analysed: 68% were female with a mean age of 52 (SD 13) years. Both COBRA-light and COBRA therapy showed declines in BMD at the total hip of -3.3% and -1.7%, respectively (p = 0.12), and the femoral neck, -3.7% and -3.0%, respectively (p = 0.95). At the lumbar spine, both treatment groups showed minor decline in BMD over 4 years: -0.5% and -1.0%, respectively (p = 0.10). CONCLUSION In a treat-to-target design in early RA, over 4 years, no differences between groups were found in change in BMD at total hip, femoral neck and the lumbar spine. At the hip, bone loss was around 3% in both groups, while mild bone loss was observed at lumbar spine, both in patients starting prednisolone 60 and 30 mg/day. These data suggest that the well-known negative effects of prednisolone can be modulated by modern treatment of RA.
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Affiliation(s)
- M J J Lucassen
- Department of Epidemiology and Data Science, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1089a, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Amsterdam Rheumatology and immunology Center, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Amsterdam, De Boelelaan, 1117, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - M M Ter Wee
- Department of Epidemiology and Data Science, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1089a, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Amsterdam Rheumatology and immunology Center, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Amsterdam, De Boelelaan, 1117, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
| | - D den Uyl
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Amsterdam Rheumatology and immunology Center, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Amsterdam, De Boelelaan, 1117, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - N P C Konijn
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Amsterdam Rheumatology and immunology Center, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Amsterdam, De Boelelaan, 1117, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - M T Nurmohamed
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Amsterdam Rheumatology and immunology Center, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Amsterdam, De Boelelaan, 1117, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Rheumatology and immunology Center, location Reade Rheumatology and Rehabilitation Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - A E Voskuyl
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Amsterdam Rheumatology and immunology Center, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Amsterdam, De Boelelaan, 1117, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - D van Schaardenburg
- Amsterdam Rheumatology and immunology Center, location Reade Rheumatology and Rehabilitation Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Amsterdam Rheumatology and immunology Center, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - P J S M Kerstens
- Department of Rheumatology, Westfriesgasthuis, Hoorn, Netherlands
| | - I E M Bultink
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Amsterdam Rheumatology and immunology Center, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Amsterdam, De Boelelaan, 1117, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - M Boers
- Department of Epidemiology and Data Science, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1089a, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - W F Lems
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Amsterdam Rheumatology and immunology Center, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Amsterdam, De Boelelaan, 1117, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Rheumatology and immunology Center, location Reade Rheumatology and Rehabilitation Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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11
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Stouten V, Westhovens R, Pazmino S, De Cock D, Van der Elst K, Joly J, Bertrand D, Verschueren P. Five-year treat-to-target outcomes after methotrexate induction therapy with or without other csDMARDs and temporary glucocorticoids for rheumatoid arthritis in the CareRA trial. Ann Rheum Dis 2021; 80:965-973. [PMID: 33811036 DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2020-219825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To compare outcomes of different treatment schedules from the care in early rheumatoid arthritis (CareRA) trial over 5 years. METHODS Patients with RA completing the 2-year CareRA randomised controlled trial were eligible for the 3-year observational CareRA-plus study. 5-year outcomes after randomisation to initial methotrexate (MTX) monotherapy with glucocorticoid bridging (COBRA-Slim) were compared with MTX step-up without glucocorticoids or conventional synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) combinations with glucocorticoid bridging, per prognostic patient group. Disease activity (Disease Activity Score based on 28 joints calculated with C reactive protein (DAS28-CRP)) and functionality (Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ)) were compared between treatment arms using longitudinal models; safety and drug use were detailed. RESULTS Of 322 eligible patients, 252 (78%) entered CareRA-plus, of which 203 (81%) completed the study. Treatments for high-risk patients resulted in comparable DAS28-CRP (p=0.539) and HAQ scores over 5 years (p=0.374). Low-risk patients starting COBRA-Slim had lower DAS28-CRP (p<0.001) and HAQ scores (p=0.041) than those starting only on MTX. At study completion, 114/203 (56%) patients never had their original DMARD therapy intensified, with comparable rates between all treatments. Safety was comparable between treatments in high-risk patients. In low-risk patients, there were 18 adverse events in 10 COBRA-Slim and 36 in 17 patients treated with initial MTX monotherapy (p=0.048). Over 5 years, 22% of patients initiated biologics, 25% took glucocorticoids for >3 months and 17% for >6 months outside the bridging period. CONCLUSIONS All intensive treatments with glucocorticoids bridging demonstrated excellent 5 year outcomes. Initiating COBRA-Slim was comparably effective as more complex treatments for high-risk patients with early RA and more effective than initial MTX monotherapy for low-risk patients with limited need for biologics and chronic glucocorticoid use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veerle Stouten
- Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - René Westhovens
- Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Rheumatology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Sofia Pazmino
- Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Diederik De Cock
- Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | | | - Johan Joly
- Rheumatology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Delphine Bertrand
- Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Patrick Verschueren
- Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium .,Rheumatology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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12
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Sugihara T, Ishizaki T, Onoguchi W, Baba H, Matsumoto T, Iga S, Kubo K, Kamiya M, Hirano F, Hosoya T, Miyasaka N, Harigai M. Effectiveness and safety of treat-to-target strategy in elderly-onset rheumatoid arthritis: a 3-year prospective observational study. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2021; 60:4252-4261. [DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keaa922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Revised: 12/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Objectives
To evaluate 3-year outcomes of following a treat-to-target (T2T) strategy targeting low disease activity for patients with elderly-onset RA (EORA) and to confirm safety profile of T2T.
Methods
Treatment was adjusted to target low disease activity with conventional synthetic DMARDs, followed by biologic DMARDs (bDMARDs) in 197 MTX-naïve EORA patients (mean age 74.9 years) with moderate-to-high disease activity. Non-implementation of T2T was evaluated at week 12, 24, 36, 52, 76, 104 and 128. To evaluate risks of using MTX, bDMARDs and glucocorticoids, 2122 periods of 3 months each were analysed using Bayesian hierarchical logistic regression models.
Results
Of the patients, 84.7% received methotrexate, 34.0% glucocorticoids with DMARDs and 41.6% bDMARDs during the observation period. Sixty-nine of the 197 patients failed to adhere to T2T because of comorbidities or the patient’s own decision: 33 failed once, 19 twice, 10 three times and 6 four times or more. Simplified disease activity index (SDAI) remission and HAQ Disability Index (HAQ-DI) ≤0.5 at 3 years were achieved in 57.8% and 70.3% of the 128 patients adhering to T2T, and 34.8% and 43.5% of the 69 patients who did not adhere to T2T, respectively, and these were significantly different. Eighty-nine serious adverse events (SAEs) of any type were reported in 61 patients. MTX, bDMARDs and glucocorticoid were not associated with SAEs when adjusted for mean SDAI during the observation period and comorbidities at baseline.
Conclusion
T2T strategy for EORA by using MTX and bDMARDs was effective with an acceptable safety profile. Adhering to T2T led to better outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takahiko Sugihara
- Department of Medicine and Rheumatology, Tokyo Metropolitan Geriatric Hospital
- Human Care Research Team, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology
- Department of Rheumatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University
- Department of Lifetime Clinical Immunology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University
| | - Tatsuro Ishizaki
- Human Care Research Team, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology
| | | | - Hiroyuki Baba
- Department of Medicine and Rheumatology, Tokyo Metropolitan Geriatric Hospital
- Department of Lifetime Clinical Immunology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University
| | - Takumi Matsumoto
- Department of Medicine and Rheumatology, Tokyo Metropolitan Geriatric Hospital
- Department of Lifetime Clinical Immunology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University
| | - Shoko Iga
- Department of Medicine and Rheumatology, Tokyo Metropolitan Geriatric Hospital
| | - Kanae Kubo
- Department of Medicine and Rheumatology, Tokyo Metropolitan Geriatric Hospital
| | - Mari Kamiya
- Department of Medicine and Rheumatology, Tokyo Metropolitan Geriatric Hospital
- Department of Lifetime Clinical Immunology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University
| | - Fumio Hirano
- Department of Medicine and Rheumatology, Tokyo Metropolitan Geriatric Hospital
- Department of Lifetime Clinical Immunology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University
| | - Tadashi Hosoya
- Department of Medicine and Rheumatology, Tokyo Metropolitan Geriatric Hospital
- Department of Lifetime Clinical Immunology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University
| | - Nobuyuki Miyasaka
- Department of Lifetime Clinical Immunology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University
| | - Masayoshi Harigai
- Department of Rheumatology, Tokyo Women’s Medical University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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13
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Development and Validation of a Sensitive UHPLC-MS/MS-Based Method for the Analysis of Folylpolyglutamate Synthetase Enzymatic Activity in Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells: Application in Rheumatoid Arthritis and Leukemia Patients. Ther Drug Monit 2020; 41:598-606. [PMID: 31008996 DOI: 10.1097/ftd.0000000000000638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Folylpolyglutamate synthetase (FPGS) is a crucial enzyme in both cellular folate homeostasis and the intracellular retention of folate analogue drugs such as methotrexate (MTX), which is commonly used for the treatment of (pediatric) leukemia and the anchor drug in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) treatment. To date, assessment of FPGS catalytic activity relies on assays using radioactive substrates that are labor-intensive and require relatively large numbers of cells. Here, we describe a nonradioactive, ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometer (UHPLC-MS/MS)-based method allowing for sensitive and accurate measurements of FPGS activity in low cell numbers (ie, 1-2 × 10) of biological specimens, including leukemic blast cells of acute lymphoblastic leukemia patients and peripheral blood mononuclear cells of patients with RA. METHODS The UHPLC-MS/MS assay was validated with 2 CCRF-CEM human leukemia cells, one proficient and one deficient in FPGS activity. Linearity of time and protein input were tested by measuring FPGS activity at 30-180 minutes of incubation time and 10-300 mcg protein extract. In addition, FPGS enzyme kinetic parameters were assessed. RESULTS The FPGS enzymatic assay showed a linear relation between FPGS activity and protein input (R ≥ 0.989) as well as incubation time (R ≥ 0.996). Moreover, the UHPLC-MS/MS method also allowed for evaluation of FPGS enzyme kinetic parameters revealing Km values for the substrates MTX and L-glutamic acid of 64 µmol/L and 2.2 mmol/L, respectively. The mean FPGS activity of acute lymphoblastic leukemia blast cells (n = 4) was 3-fold higher than that of CCRF-CEM cells and 44-fold and 88-fold higher than that of peripheral blood mononuclear cells from MTX-naive (n = 9) and MTX-treated RA patients (n = 6), respectively. CONCLUSIONS Collectively, given its sensitivity with low cell numbers and avoidance of radioactive substrates, UHPLC-MS/MS-based analysis of FPGS activity may be eligible for routine therapeutic drug monitoring of MTX in RA and leukemia for therapy (non)response evaluations.
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14
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Safy-Khan M, Jacobs JWG, de Hair MJH, Welsing PMJ, Edwardes MD, Teitsma XM, Luder Y, Devenport J, van Laar JM, Pethoe-Schramm A, Bijlsma JWJ. Effect on efficacy and safety trial outcomes of also enrolling patients on ongoing glucocorticoid therapy in rheumatoid arthritis clinical trials of tocilizumab or adalimumab or methotrexate monotherapy. Ann Rheum Dis 2020; 79:460-463. [PMID: 32033935 DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2019-216537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2019] [Revised: 01/13/2020] [Accepted: 01/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In rheumatoid arthritis (RA) trials, inclusion of patients on background treatment with glucocorticoids (GCs) might impact efficacy and safety outcomes. OBJECTIVES To determine if inclusion of patients on background GC use influenced efficacy and safety outcomes of RA randomised clinical trials on initiation of tocilizumab (TCZ) or adalimumab (ADA) or methotrexate (MTX) monotherapy. METHODS Data of four double-blind RA randomised controlled trials (AMBITION, ACT-RAY, ADACTA and FUNCTION) with in total four TCZ, one ADA and two MTX monotherapy arms were analysed. Analyses of covariance of changes from baseline to week 24 in efficacy endpoints and radiographic progression up to week 104 were performed, correcting for relevant covariates. Incidence rates of serious adverse events (SAEs) were assessed. RESULTS No statistically significant differences were found in efficacy parameters between background GC users and non-GC users, except for less radiographic progression associated with GC usage in one MTX arm. SAE rates were not statistically significantly different between GC users and non-GC users in the treatment arms. CONCLUSION No effect of including patients on background GC treatment on efficacy and safety trial outcomes was found, with the exception of reduced radiological joint damage in one MTX arm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Safy-Khan
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, UMC Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Johannes W G Jacobs
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, UMC Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Paco M J Welsing
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, UMC Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | | | | | | | - Jacob M van Laar
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, UMC Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Johannes W J Bijlsma
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, UMC Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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15
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Ho CTK, Mok CC, Cheung TT, Kwok KY, Yip RML. Management of rheumatoid arthritis: 2019 updated consensus recommendations from the Hong Kong Society of Rheumatology. Clin Rheumatol 2019; 38:3331-3350. [PMID: 31485846 DOI: 10.1007/s10067-019-04761-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2019] [Revised: 08/16/2019] [Accepted: 08/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The expanding range of treatment options for rheumatoid arthritis (RA), from conventional synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) to biological DMARDs (bDMARDs), biosimilar bDMARDs, and targeted synthetic DMARDs, has improved patient outcomes but increased the complexity of treatment decisions. These updated consensus recommendations from the Hong Kong Society of Rheumatology provide guidance on the management of RA, with a focus on how to integrate newly available DMARDs into clinical practice. The recommendations were developed based on evidence from the literature along with local expert opinion. Early diagnosis of RA and prompt initiation of effective therapy remain crucial and we suggest a treat-to-target approach to guide optimal sequencing of DMARDs in RA patients to achieve tight disease control. Newly available DMARDs are incorporated in the treatment algorithm, resulting in a greater range of second-line treatment options. In the event of treatment failure or intolerance, switching to another DMARD with a similar or different mode of action may be considered. Given the variety of available treatments and the heterogeneity of patients with RA, treatment decisions should be tailored to the individual patient taking into consideration prognostic factors, medical comorbidities, drug safety, cost of treatment, and patient preference.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Chi Chiu Mok
- Department of Medicine, Tuen Mun Hospital, Tuen Mun, Hong Kong, China.
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16
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Clinical predictors of remission and low disease activity in Latin American early rheumatoid arthritis: data from the GLADAR cohort. Clin Rheumatol 2019; 38:2737-2746. [PMID: 31161486 DOI: 10.1007/s10067-019-04618-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2018] [Revised: 05/12/2019] [Accepted: 05/19/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To identify baseline predictors of remission and low disease activity (LDA) in early rheumatoid arthritis (RA) from the GLADAR (Grupo Latino Americano De estudio de la Artritis Reumatoide) cohort. METHODS Patients with 1- and 2-year follow-up visits were included. Remission and LDA were defined by DAS28-ESR (< 2.6 and ≤ 3.2, respectively). Baseline predictors examined were gender, ethnicity, age at diagnosis, socioeconomic status, symptoms' duration, DMARDs, RF, thrombocytosis, anemia, morning stiffness, DAS28-ESR (and its components), HAQ-DI, DMARDs and corticosteroid use, and Sharp-VDH score. Multivariable binary logistic regression models (excluding DAS28-ESR components to avoid over adjustment) were derived using a backward selection method (α-level set at 0.05). RESULTS Four hundred ninety-eight patients were included. Remission and LDA/remission were met by 19.3% and 32.5% at the 1-year visit, respectively. For the 280 patients followed for 2 years, these outcomes were met by 24.3% and 38.9%, respectively. Predictors of remission at 1 year were a lower DAS28-ESR (OR 1.17; CI 1.07-1.27; p = 0.001) and HAQ-DI (OR 1.48; CI 1.04-2.10; p = 0.028). At 2 years, only DAS28-ESR (OR 1.40; CI 1.17-1.6; p < 0.001) was a predictor. Predictors of LDA/remission at 1 year were DAS28-ESR (OR 1.42; CI 1.26-1.61; p < 0.001), non-use of corticosteroid (OR 1.74; CI 1.11-2.44; p = 0.008), and male gender (OR 1.77; CI 1.2-2.63; p = 0.036). A lower baseline DAS28-ESR (OR 1.45; CI 1.23-1.70; p < 0.001) was the only predictor of LDA/remission at 2 years. CONCLUSIONS A lower disease activity consistently predicted remission and LDA/remission at 1 and 2 years of follow-up in early RA patients from the GLADAR cohort. Key Points • In patients with early RA, a lower disease activity at first visit is a strong clinical predictor of achieving remission and LDA subsequently. • Other clinical predictors of remission and LDA to keep in mind in these patients are male gender, non-use of corticosteroids and low disability at baseline. • Not using corticosteroids at first visit is associated with a lower disease activity and predicts LDA/remission at 1 year in these patients.
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17
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de Jong TD, Snoek T, Mantel E, van der Laken CJ, van Vollenhoven RF, Lems WF. Dynamics of the Type I Interferon Response During Immunosuppressive Therapy in Rheumatoid Arthritis. Front Immunol 2019; 10:902. [PMID: 31068954 PMCID: PMC6491736 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.00902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2018] [Accepted: 04/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: The type I interferon (IFN) response in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) has been extensively studied in relation to therapy with biological DMARDs (bDMARDs). However, the effect of conventional synthetic (cs)DMARDs and glucocorticoids (GCs) on IFN response gene (IRG) expression remains largely unknown, even though csDMARDS are used throughout all disease phases, including simultaneously with biologic therapy. This study was aimed to determine the dynamics of IFN response upon immunosuppressive treatment. Methods: Whole blood was collected in PAXgene tubes from 35 RA patients who received either COBRA therapy (combination of prednisone, initially 60 mg, methotrexate and sulfasalazine) (n = 14) or COBRA-light therapy (prednisone, initially 30 mg, and methotrexate) (n = 21). Expression of 10 IRGs was determined by real-time PCR at baseline (T0), after 4 weeks (T4), and 13 weeks (T13) of treatment. IRG selection was based on the differential presence of transcription factor binding sites (TFBS), in order to study the therapy effect on different pathway components involved in IFN signaling. Results: Seven of the 10 IRGs displayed significant changes during treatment (p ≤ 0.016). These 7 IRGs all displayed a particularly pronounced decrease between T0 and T4 (≥1.6-fold, p ≤ 0.0059). The differences between IRG sensitivity to the treatment appeared related to the presence of TFBS for STAT1 and IRF proteins within the genes. The extent of the decreases between T0 and T4 was similar for the COBRA- and COBRA-light-treated group, despite the differences in drug combination and doses in those groups. Between T4 and T13, however, IRG expression in the COBRA-light-treated group displayed a significant increase, whereas it remained stable or decreased even further in most COBRA-treated patients (comparison of mean fold changes, p = 0.011). A significant association between IRG dynamics and clinical response to therapy was not detected. Conclusions: Immunosuppressive treatment with csDMARDs, in this case a combination of prednisolone, methotrexate and sulfasalazine, substantially downregulates the IFN response in RA patients. The dynamics of this downregulation were partly dependent on the presence of TFBS within the IRGs and the combination and dosages of agents, but they were irrespective of the clinical response to therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamarah D de Jong
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Rheumatology, Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Tanja Snoek
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Rheumatology, Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Elise Mantel
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Rheumatology, Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Conny J van der Laken
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Rheumatology, Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Ronald F van Vollenhoven
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Rheumatology, Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Willem F Lems
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Rheumatology, Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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18
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Verhoeven MMA, Welsing PMJ, Bijlsma JWJ, van Laar JM, Lafeber FPJG, Tekstra J, Jacobs JWG. Effectiveness of Remission Induction Strategies for Early Rheumatoid Arthritis: a Systematic Literature Review. Curr Rheumatol Rep 2019; 21:24. [PMID: 31016409 PMCID: PMC6478774 DOI: 10.1007/s11926-019-0821-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To review the effectiveness of remission induction strategies compared to single csDMARD-initiating strategies according to current guidelines in early RA. RECENT FINDINGS Twenty-nine studies, heterogeneous on, e.g., specific treatment strategy and remission outcome used, were identified. Using DAS28-remission over 12 months, 13 (76%) of 17 remission induction strategies showed significantly more patients achieving remission. Pooled relative "risk" was 1.73 [95%CI 1.59-1.88] for bDMARD-based remission induction strategies and 1.20 [95%CI 1.03-1.40] for combination csDMARD-based remission induction strategies compared to single csDMARD-initiating strategies. When additional glucocorticoid "bridging therapy" was used in single csDMARD-initiating strategies, the higher proportion patients achieving remission in remission induction strategies was no longer statistically significant (pooled RR 1.06 [95%CI 0.83-1.35]). For other remission outcomes, results were in line with above. Remission induction strategies are more effective in achieving remission compared to single csDMARD-initiating strategies, possibly more so in bDMARD-based induction strategies. However, compared to single csDMARD-initiating strategies with glucocorticoids, induction strategies may not be more effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- M M A Verhoeven
- Department of Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, G02.228, P.O. Box 85500, 3508GA, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| | - P M J Welsing
- Department of Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, G02.228, P.O. Box 85500, 3508GA, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - J W J Bijlsma
- Department of Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, G02.228, P.O. Box 85500, 3508GA, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - J M van Laar
- Department of Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, G02.228, P.O. Box 85500, 3508GA, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - F P J G Lafeber
- Department of Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, G02.228, P.O. Box 85500, 3508GA, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - J Tekstra
- Department of Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, G02.228, P.O. Box 85500, 3508GA, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - J W G Jacobs
- Department of Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, G02.228, P.O. Box 85500, 3508GA, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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