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Yin J, Chen JD. Noninvasive electrical neuromodulation for gastrointestinal motility disorders. Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023; 17:1221-1232. [PMID: 38018087 PMCID: PMC10842705 DOI: 10.1080/17474124.2023.2288156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Gastrointestinal motility disorders are highly prevalent without satisfactory treatment. noninvasive electrical neuromodulation is an emerging therapy for treating various gastrointestinal motility disorders. AREAS COVERED In this review, several emerging noninvasive neuromodulation methods are introduced, including transcutaneous auricular vagal nerve stimulation, percutaneous auricular vagal nerve stimulation, transcutaneous cervical vagal nerve stimulation, transcutaneous electrical acustimulation, transabdominal interference stimulation, tibial nerve stimulation, and translumbosacral neuromodulation therapy. Their clinical applications in the most common gastrointestinal motility are discussed, including gastroesophageal reflux disease, functional dyspepsia, gastroparesis, functional constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, and fecal incontinence. PubMed database was searched from 1995 to June 2023 for relevant articles in English. EXPERT OPINION Noninvasive neuromodulation is effective and safe in improving both gastrointestinal symptoms and dysmotility; it can be used when pharmacotherapy is ineffective. Future directions include refining the methodology, improving device development and understanding mechanisms of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jieyun Yin
- Transtimulation Research Inc, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Jiande Dz Chen
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor MI, USA
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Cuomo G, Iandoli C, Galiero R, Caturano A, Di Vico C, Perretta D, Adamo PV, Ferrara R, Rinaldi L, Romano C, Sasso FC. Liver Involvement in Patients with Systemic Sclerosis: Role of Transient Elastography in the Assessment of Hepatic Fibrosis and Steatosis. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:diagnostics13101766. [PMID: 37238250 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13101766] [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: 04/24/2023] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare, multisystemic disorder of connective tissue characterized by widespread inflammation, vascular abnormalities, and both skin and visceral organ fibrosis. Tissue fibrosis is the final phase of a complex biological process of immune activation and vascular damage. Objectives The aim of the study was to assess hepatic fibrosis and steatosis in SSc patients by transient elastography (TE). Methods Fifty-nine SSc patients fulfilling the 2013 ACR/EULAR classification criteria were recruited. Clinical and laboratory findings, modified Rodnan skin score (mRSS), activity index, videocapillaroscopy, echocardiography, and lung function data were analyzed. Liver stiffness (LS) was measured by transient elastography (TE), with 7 kPa used as the cut-off value for significant liver fibrosis. In addition, hepatic steatosis was evaluated by means of controlled attenuation parameter (CAP) findings. Specifically, CAP values ≥ 238 ≤ 259 dB/m were considered consistent with mild steatosis (S1), values ≥ 260 ≤ 290 dB/m were compatible with moderate steatosis (S2), and values ≥ 291 dB/m were indicative of severe steatosis (S3). Results The median age of patients was 51 years, with a median disease duration of 6 years. The median LS was 4.5 (2.9-8.3) kPa; 69.5% of patients had no evidence of fibrosis (F0); 27.1% displayed LS values between 5.2 and 7 kPa; and only 3.4% of patients had LS values > 7 kPa (F3). The median CAP value for liver steatosis was 223 dB/m (IQR: 164-343). Overall, 66.1% of patients did not show evidence of steatosis (CAP values < 238 dB/m); 15.2% showed values consistent with mild (S1) steatosis (CAP value ≥ 238 ≤ 259 dB/m); 13.5% had moderate (S2) steatosis (CAP value ≥ 260 ≤ 290 dB/m); and 5.1% were deemed to have severe steatosis (S3) due to CAP values ≥ 291 dB/m. Conclusions Although systemic sclerosis is associated with fibrosis of the skin and several organs, only 3.4% of our patient population showed evidence of marked liver fibrosis, which is the same prevalence as that expected in the general population. Therefore, fibrosis of the liver did not appear to be a significant concern in SSc patients, albeit moderate fibrosis could still be detected in a significant proportion of subjects. A prolonged follow-up may clarify whether liver fibrosis in SSc patients may still progress. Likewise, the prevalence of significant steatosis was low (5.1%) and depended on the same variables associated with fatty liver disease in the general population. TE was shown to be an easy and valuable method for detection and screening of hepatic fibrosis in SSc patients with no additional risk factors for liver disease and may be useful to assess the potential progression of liver fibrosis over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanna Cuomo
- Department of Precision Medicine, "Luigi Vanvitelli" University of Campania, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Carlo Iandoli
- Department of Precision Medicine, "Luigi Vanvitelli" University of Campania, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Raffaele Galiero
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, "Luigi Vanvitelli" University of Campania, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Alfredo Caturano
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, "Luigi Vanvitelli" University of Campania, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Claudio Di Vico
- Department of Precision Medicine, "Luigi Vanvitelli" University of Campania, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Danilo Perretta
- Department of Precision Medicine, "Luigi Vanvitelli" University of Campania, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Pier Vincenzo Adamo
- Department of Precision Medicine, "Luigi Vanvitelli" University of Campania, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Roberta Ferrara
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, "Luigi Vanvitelli" University of Campania, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Luca Rinaldi
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, "Luigi Vanvitelli" University of Campania, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Ciro Romano
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, "Luigi Vanvitelli" University of Campania, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Ferdinando Carlo Sasso
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, "Luigi Vanvitelli" University of Campania, 80138 Naples, Italy
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Bento da Silva A, Lourenço MH, Cunha-Branco J, Gonçalves MJ. Particularly severe form of refractory gastrointestinal involvement in systemic sclerosis. BMJ Case Rep 2023; 16:e254537. [PMID: 37015763 PMCID: PMC10083804 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2022-254537] [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] [Indexed: 04/06/2023] Open
Abstract
A woman with systemic sclerosis presents with a severe and rapidly progressive form of gastrointestinal involvement, mainly marked by recurrent refractory episodes of pseudo-obstruction, culminating in severe malnutrition and dependence of parenteral nutrition. The impact on her quality of life was extremely significant. As a last resort, she started intravenous immunoglobulin with progressive improvement of her symptoms, allowing for the reinstitution of oral diet and removal of parenteral nutrition. After more than 1 year, she maintains clinical stability. Systemic sclerosis has a heterogeneous phenotype, but gastrointestinal involvement is one of the most frequent. Severe manifestations are rare, but can lead to severe malnutrition and are associated with high morbidity and mortality rates. Their management is challenging, as the available treatments are still very limited. A better understanding of its pathophysiology, which seems to be unique, is essential to provide more effective treatments and improving quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Bento da Silva
- Rheumatology, Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Ocidental - Hospital de Egas Moniz, Lisbon, Portugal
- Rheumatology, Comprehensive Health Research Center, NOVA Medical School, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Maria Helena Lourenço
- Rheumatology, Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Ocidental - Hospital de Egas Moniz, Lisbon, Portugal
- Rheumatology, Comprehensive Health Research Center, NOVA Medical School, Lisbon, Portugal
- Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, NOVA Medical School, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Jaime Cunha-Branco
- Rheumatology, Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Ocidental - Hospital de Egas Moniz, Lisbon, Portugal
- Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, NOVA Medical School, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Maria João Gonçalves
- Rheumatology, Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Ocidental - Hospital de Egas Moniz, Lisbon, Portugal
- Rheumatology, Comprehensive Health Research Center, NOVA Medical School, Lisbon, Portugal
- Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
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Frech TM, Poole JL, Murtaugh M, Matucci-Cerinic M. Expanding the Treatment Team. Rheum Dis Clin North Am 2023; 49:377-387. [PMID: 37028841 DOI: 10.1016/j.rdc.2023.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/05/2023]
Abstract
The optimal systemic sclerosis (SSc) care plan includes an occupational therapist and physical therapist as well as wound care experts and a registered dietitian if indicated. Screening instruments for functional and work disability, hand and mouth limitations, malnutrition, and dietary intake can identify the need for ancillary support services. Telemedicine can assist in developing effective ancillary treatment plans. Reimbursement for services may limit access for patients with SSc to expand their care team but a focus on prevention rather than management of damage is recognized as an important unmet need in SSc. In this review, the role of a comprehensive care team for SSc is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tracy M Frech
- Department of Internal Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA.
| | - Janet L Poole
- Occupational Therapy Graduate Program, Department of Pediatrics, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Maureen Murtaugh
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Epidemiology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Marco Matucci-Cerinic
- Division of Rheumatology and Scleroderma Unit, AOU Careggi, Florence and Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Italy
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Farrell J, Ho L. Management of Patients with Systemic Sclerosis-Associated Interstitial Lung Disease: A Focus on the Role of the Pharmacist. INTEGRATED PHARMACY RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2023; 12:101-112. [PMID: 37163188 PMCID: PMC10164394 DOI: 10.2147/iprp.s399518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is a common manifestation of systemic sclerosis (SSc), which becomes fibrosing and progressive in some patients. Regular monitoring of patients with SSc-ILD is important to assess progression and inform treatment decisions. Therapy for SSc-ILD may include immunomodulatory and antifibrotic therapies. Therapeutic decisions should be made on a case-by-case basis, ideally following multidisciplinary discussion. Most patients with SSc-ILD have several organ manifestations of SSc or comorbidities and are taking a complex medication regimen. Patients with SSc are particularly susceptible to gastrointestinal side-effects of medications due to the gastrointestinal manifestations of the disease. Pharmacists play an important role in the management of patients with SSc-ILD by assisting patients with access to medications, optimizing medication regimens, and advising on alternative dosage forms. Pharmacists can also contribute to patient education to help patients better understand their treatment and how to prevent and manage potential side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Farrell
- Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences and Albany Medical Center Division of Rheumatology, Albany, NY, USA
- Correspondence: Jessica Farrell, Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences and Albany Medical Center Division of Rheumatology, Albany, NY, USA, Email
| | - Lawrence Ho
- Center for Interstitial Lung Disease, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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Knarborg M, Hyldgaard C, Bendstrup E, Davidsen JR, Løkke A, Shaker SB, Hilberg O. Comorbidity and mortality in systemic sclerosis and matched controls: Impact of interstitial lung disease. A population based cohort study based on health registry data. Chron Respir Dis 2023; 20:14799731231195041. [PMID: 37596992 PMCID: PMC10440053 DOI: 10.1177/14799731231195041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/21/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This population-based, matched cohort study evaluates the impact of comorbidities on mortality among systemic sclerosis (SSc) patients with and without interstitial lung disease (ILD). METHOD Patients with a first-time SSc diagnosis between 2002 and 2015 were identified in the Danish National Patient Registry, separated into two cohorts - with ILD (SSc-ILD) and without ILD (non-ILD SSc), and matched 1:4 with controls from the general population on age, sex, residency and marital status. Comorbidity and mortality data were obtained from national registries. The Deyo-Charlson comorbidity score (DCcs) was used for assessment of the burden of comorbidities. RESULTS 1732 patients with SSc and 6919 controls were included; 258 (14.9%) patients had SSc-ILD. The hazard ratio (HR) for death was 2.8 (95% CI 2.4-3.3) in SSc, and especially increased in SSc-ILD (HR 4.2 (95% CI 3.2-5.4)), males (HR 3.1 95% CI 2.4-4.1) and younger adults (aged 18-40 (HR 6.9, 95% CI 3.4-14.2) and 41-50 (HR 7.7, 95% CI 3.8-15.6)). In non-ILD SSc, mortality increased with increasing DCcs. Cancer was the most frequent cause of death in SSc (24.9% of deaths) and in controls (33.5%), in SSc followed by musculoskeletal and connective tissue diseases (22.7%); the cause of only 0.8% of deaths among controls. CONCLUSION The high prevalence of comorbidities in SSc had extensive impact on mortality. Mortality was increased in males, in young adults and in SSc-ILD, underlining the excess mortality associated with ILD. These findings emphasise the importance of timely diagnosis and optimal management of organ involvement and comorbidities in SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malene Knarborg
- Department of Medicine, Lillebaelt Hospital, Vejle, Denmark
- Department of Regional Health Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Charlotte Hyldgaard
- Diagnostic Centre, University Research Clinic for Innovative Patient Pathways, Silkeborg Regional Hospital, Silkeborg, Denmark
| | - Elisabeth Bendstrup
- Center for Rare Lung Diseases, Department of Respiratory Diseases and Allergy, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Jesper Rømhild Davidsen
- South Danish Center for Interstitial Lung Diseases (SCILS), Department of Respiratory Medicine, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
- Odense Respiratory Research Unit (ODIN), Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Anders Løkke
- Department of Medicine, Lillebaelt Hospital, Vejle, Denmark
- Department of Regional Health Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Saher Burhan Shaker
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Herlev and Gentofte University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ole Hilberg
- Department of Medicine, Lillebaelt Hospital, Vejle, Denmark
- Department of Regional Health Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
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Moroz EV, Popkova TV, Moroz AE. Manifestations of the gastrointestinal tract in systemic rheumatic diseases: A narrative review. RHEUMATOLOGY SCIENCE AND PRACTICE 2022. [DOI: 10.47360/1995-4484-2022-578-586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Gastrointestinal disorders are important place among the visceral manifestations of systemic autoimmune and immunoinflammatory rheumatic diseases (RD). Pathology of the esophagus, stomach, small and large intestine can vary from moderate functional disorders to the development of severe chronic inflammation with metaplasia and dysplasia of the mucous membrane, the formation of multiple erosions, hemorrhages and deep ulcers. Complications of gastrointestinal pathology in RD, such as bleeding, perforations and strictures, can cause death. This review examines the main clinical manifestations, possibilities of diagnosis and treatment of gastrointestinal lesions in systemic scleroderma, idiopathic inflammatory myopathies, systemic vasculitis, Sjogren’s syndrome and disease, as well as systemic lupus erythematosus.
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Affiliation(s)
- E. V. Moroz
- Main Military Clinical Hospital named after N.N. Burdenko
| | | | - A. E. Moroz
- V.A. Nasonova Research Institute of Rheumatology
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Arar AM, DeLay K, Leiman DA, Menard-Katcher P. Esophageal Manifestations of Dermatological Diseases, Diagnosis and Management. CURRENT TREATMENT OPTIONS IN GASTROENTEROLOGY 2022; 20:513-528. [PMID: 37287750 PMCID: PMC10243751 DOI: 10.1007/s11938-022-00399-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Purpose of Review The purpose of this article is to discuss the diagnosis and treatment of diseases that affect both the skin and the esophagus. Recent Findings The diagnosis of dermatological conditions that affect the esophagus often requires endoscopy and biopsy with some conditions requiring further investigation with serology, immunofluorescence, manometry, or genetic testing. Many conditions that affect the skin and esophagus can be treated successfully with systemic steroids and immunosuppressants including pemphigus, pemphigoid, HIV, esophageal lichen planus, and Crohn's disease. Many conditions are associated with esophageal strictures which are treated with endoscopic dilation. Furthermore, many of the diseases are pre-malignant and require vigilance and surveillance endoscopy. Summary Diseases that affect the skin and esophagus can be grouped by their underlying etiology: autoimmune (scleroderma, dermatomyositis, pemphigus, pemphigoid), infectious (herpes simplex virus, cytomegalovirus, human immunodeficiency virus), inflammatory (lichen planus and Crohn's disease), and genetic (epidermolysis bullosa, Cowden syndrome, focal dermal hypoplasia, and tylosis). It is important to consider primary skin conditions that affect the esophagus when patients present with dysphagia of unknown etiology and characteristic skin findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amr M. Arar
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine - Anschutz Medical Campus, Denver, CO, USA
| | - Kelli DeLay
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Colorado School of Medicine - Anschutz Medical Campus, Denver, CO, USA
| | - David A. Leiman
- Division of Gastroenterology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham NC, USA
- Duke Clinical Research Institute, Durham NC, USA
| | - Paul Menard-Katcher
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Colorado School of Medicine - Anschutz Medical Campus, Denver, CO, USA
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Nassar M, Ghernautan V, Nso N, Nyabera A, Castillo FC, Tu W, Medina L, Ciobanu C, Alfishawy M, Rizzo V, Eskaros S, Mahdi M, Khalifa M, El-Kassas M. Gastrointestinal involvement in systemic sclerosis: An updated review. Medicine (Baltimore) 2022; 101:e31780. [PMID: 36397401 PMCID: PMC9666124 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000031780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The gastrointestinal tract (GI) is the second most affected organ system in individuals suffering from systemic/localized scleroderma (SSc) or localized scleroderma. SSc can affect any part of the GI, between the oral cavity and anorectum. The annual incidence of SSc in the United States is estimated to be 19.3 cases per million adults, with the highest incidence reported in people aged 44 to 55. Females are 5 times more likely than males to suffer from SSc. Morbidity and mortality rates associated with SSc are predominantly elevated among patients with GI manifestations. Esophageal and intestinal manifestations impact 90% and 40% to 70% of patients with systemic scleroderma, respectively. SSc patients are known to suffer from small bowel hypomotility and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, which cause malabsorption and malnutrition, ultimately contributing to the 50% mortality rate. Fecal incontinence is a common symptom of SSc that can lead to depression. SSc patients may suffer from gastrointestinal complications that can negatively impact their quality of life on a daily basis. Multidisciplinary approaches are necessary for systematically managing gastrointestinal complications associated with SSc. A prospective study should focus on developing targeted therapies to improve recovery patterns and prognosis in cases of SSc. This article summarizes the epidemiology, commonly reported clinical manifestations, complications, and available treatments for treating GI pathology in SSc patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmoud Nassar
- Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, NYC Health+Hospitals, Queens, NY, USA
| | - Victoria Ghernautan
- Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, NYC Health+Hospitals, Queens, NY, USA
| | - Nso Nso
- Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, NYC Health+Hospitals, Queens, NY, USA
| | - Akwe Nyabera
- Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, NYC Health+Hospitals, Queens, NY, USA
| | - Francisco Cuevas Castillo
- Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, NYC Health+Hospitals, Queens, NY, USA
| | - Wan Tu
- Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, NYC Health+Hospitals, Queens, NY, USA
| | - Luis Medina
- Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, NYC Health+Hospitals, Queens, NY, USA
| | | | - Mostafa Alfishawy
- Internal Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Vincent Rizzo
- Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, NYC Health+Hospitals, Queens, NY, USA
| | - Saphwat Eskaros
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, NYC Health+Hospitals, Queens, NY, USA
| | - Mamdouh Mahdi
- Internal Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Helwan University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Khalifa
- Hospital Management Department, Helwan University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mohamed El-Kassas
- Endemic Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Helwan University, Cairo, Egypt
- * Correspondence: Mohamed El-Kassas, Endemic Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Helwan University, Ain Helwan 11795 Cairo, Egypt (e-mail: )
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Mendoza FA, DiMarino A, Cohen S, Adkins C, Abdelbaki S, Rattan S, Cao C, Denuna-Rivera S, Jimenez SA. Treatment of Severe Swallowing Dysfunction in Systemic Sclerosis with IVIG: Role of Antimuscarinic Antibodies. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11226665. [PMID: 36431141 PMCID: PMC9699580 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11226665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Revised: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Oropharyngeal and esophageal dysmotility can cause serious clinical complications such as aspiration pneumonia, cachexia, and sarcopenia, with a resulting increase in mortality and disability. The current standard of care for the treatment of SSc-associated swallowing dysfunction is mainly supportive, although severe cases are usually refractory to conventional management. Recent studies have shown that the abnormal production of functional autoantibodies such as anti-cholinergic muscarinic receptor III antibodies may participate in the pathogenesis of SSc-associated gastrointestinal dysmotility and may provide a novel target for therapeutic intervention. We describe two patients with severe and rapid onset of SSc-associated severe swallowing dysfunction and esophageal dysmotility who had failed standard of care therapy, requiring complete enteral and parenteral nutrition. Both patients were positive for the presence of circulating antimuscarinic III receptor antibodies. They were treated with IVIG at a dose of 2 g/Kg/month divided in two consecutive days, for six months. Following IVIG therapy, both patients markedly improved their symptoms as shown by a reduction in their UCLA2.0 score, and achieved an improvement of esophageal motility documented radiologically. Both patients resumed oral feeding and had their feeding tubes removed within the treatment period. None of the patients developed severe adverse events attributable to IVIG, except for low-grade fever during IVIG infusion in one of the cases. These results provide support for the role of functional autoantibodies in the development of SSc-associated gastrointestinal dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabian A. Mendoza
- Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
- Jefferson Institute of Molecular Medicine and Scleroderma Center, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-215-955-8430
| | - Anthony DiMarino
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Sidney Cohen
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Christopher Adkins
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Shady Abdelbaki
- Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Satish Rattan
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Christopher Cao
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Susie Denuna-Rivera
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Sergio A. Jimenez
- Jefferson Institute of Molecular Medicine and Scleroderma Center, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
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Bratoiu I, Burlui AM, Cardoneanu A, Macovei LA, Richter P, Rusu-Zota G, Rezus C, Badescu MC, Szalontay A, Rezus E. The Involvement of Smooth Muscle, Striated Muscle, and the Myocardium in Scleroderma: A Review. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231912011. [PMID: 36233313 PMCID: PMC9569846 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231912011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 09/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a complex autoimmune disease characterized by heterogeneous changes involving numerous organs and systems. The currently available data indicate that muscle injury (both smooth and striated muscles) is widespread and leads to significant morbidity, either directly or indirectly. From the consequences of smooth muscle involvement in the tunica media of blood vessels or at the level of the digestive tract, to skeletal myopathy (which may be interpreted strictly in the context of SSc, or as an overlap with idiopathic inflammatory myopathies), muscular injury in scleroderma translates to a number of notable clinical manifestations. Heart involvement in SSc is heterogenous depending on the definition used in the various studies. The majority of SSc patients experience a silent form of cardiac disease. The present review summarizes certain important features of myocardial, as well as smooth and skeletal muscle involvement in SSc. Further research is needed to fully describe and understand the pathogenic pathways and the implications of muscle involvement in scleroderma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioana Bratoiu
- Department of Rheumatology and Physiotherapy, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 University Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Alexandra Maria Burlui
- Department of Rheumatology and Physiotherapy, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 University Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania
- Correspondence: (A.M.B.); (C.R.)
| | - Anca Cardoneanu
- Department of Rheumatology and Physiotherapy, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 University Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Luana Andreea Macovei
- Department of Rheumatology and Physiotherapy, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 University Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Patricia Richter
- Department of Rheumatology and Physiotherapy, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 University Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Gabriela Rusu-Zota
- Department of Pharmacology, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 University Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Ciprian Rezus
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 Universitatii Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania
- Correspondence: (A.M.B.); (C.R.)
| | - Minerva Codruta Badescu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 Universitatii Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Andreea Szalontay
- Department of Psychiatry, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 University Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Elena Rezus
- Department of Rheumatology and Physiotherapy, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 University Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania
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12
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Lemos MPC, Zucoloto TG, Oliveira MC, de Oliveira GLV. Dysbiosis and Gut Microbiota Modulation in Systemic Sclerosis. J Clin Rheumatol 2022; 28:e568-e573. [PMID: 34030162 DOI: 10.1097/rhu.0000000000001748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Gastrointestinal (GI) involvement is an early manifestation in systemic sclerosis (SSc), affecting more than 90% of patients, and severe GI disease is a marker of poor prognosis and mortality. Recent studies have hypothesized that alterations of the intestinal microbiota, known as dysbiosis, may represent 1 of the possible environmental factors influencing SSc disease status. In addition, specific microorganisms may be associated with SSc pathogenesis, progression, and GI manifestations. Therapeutic approaches aiming to modulate the intestinal microbiota have emerged, as alternatives to treat GI symptoms, and dietary interventions, probiotic administration, and fecal microbiota transplantation are potential therapies for SSc patients. However, given the complexity and variability of pathogenesis and clinical manifestations in SSc, these therapies need to be combined with additional interventions that target other disease components. Here, we summarize studies addressing intestinal dysbiosis in SSc and discuss the potential of microbiota modulators to treat SSc-related GI disorders.
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Autoimmune Gastrointestinal Dysmotility in a Patient With HIV Treated With Methylprednisolone and Pyridostigmine. ACG Case Rep J 2021; 8:e00636. [PMID: 34307714 PMCID: PMC8294874 DOI: 10.14309/crj.0000000000000636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary autoimmune gastrointestinal dysmotility is a limited form of autoimmune dysautonomia, driven by antiganglionic autoantibodies (AGAs) against enteric neurons. AGAs are observed in other autoimmune diseases, such as Guillain-Barré syndrome, before the development onset of gastrointestinal symptoms. Here, we report a case of a 57-year-old woman with human immunodeficiency virus, who previously developed Guillain-Barré syndrome, presenting with 6 months of intestinal dysmotility. Diagnosis was made by detecting AGAs to ganglionic acetylcholine receptor, alpha-3 subunit, radiographic evidence of duodenal dysmotility, and exclusion of other causes. The patient received high-dose methylprednisolone with low-dose pyridostigmine, which led to significant improvement of symptoms.
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Abstract
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare autoimmune disease characterized by widespread microvasculopathy, inflammation, and fibrosis of the skin and internal organs. The involvement of the gastrointestinal tract is associated with a wide variety of symptoms and affects circa 90% of patients during the course of the disease. The gastrointestinal microbiota contains trillions of microbial cells and has been found to contribute to both local and systemic homeostasis. In both health and disease, a dynamic interrelationship between gut microbiome activity and the host immune system has been identified. Gastrointestinal dysbiosis has been described as having an important role in obesity, diabetes mellitus, liver disease, cardiovascular and neuropsychiatric disorders, neoplasia, as well as autoimmunity. Recent scientific data indicates a notable role of dysbiosis in the pathogenesis of SSc-related digestive involvement together with various other clinical manifestations. The present review aims to summarize the recent findings regarding digestive dysbiosis as well as the relationship between gastrointestinal microbiota and certain features of SSc.
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D’Silva KM, Bolster MB. Systemic Sclerosis: A Comprehensive Approach to Diagnosis and Management. PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT CLINICS 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cpha.2020.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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16
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Seibold JR, Maher TM, Highland KB, Assassi S, Azuma A, Hummers LK, Costabel U, von Wangenheim U, Kohlbrenner V, Gahlemann M, Alves M, Distler O. Safety and tolerability of nintedanib in patients with systemic sclerosis-associated interstitial lung disease: data from the SENSCIS trial. Ann Rheum Dis 2020; 79:1478-1484. [PMID: 32759258 PMCID: PMC7569371 DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2020-217331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2020] [Revised: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 06/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To characterise the safety and tolerability of nintedanib and the dose adjustments used to manage adverse events in patients with systemic sclerosis-associated interstitial lung disease (SSc-ILD). METHODS In the SENSCIS trial, patients with SSc-ILD were randomised to receive nintedanib 150 mg two times per day or placebo. To manage adverse events, treatment could be interrupted or the dose reduced to 100 mg two times per day. We assessed adverse events and dose adjustments over 52 weeks. RESULTS A total of 576 patients received nintedanib (n=288) or placebo (n=288). The most common adverse event was diarrhoea, reported in 75.7% of patients in the nintedanib group and 31.6% in the placebo group; diarrhoea led to permanent treatment discontinuation in 6.9% and 0.3% of patients in the nintedanib and placebo groups, respectively. In the nintedanib and placebo groups, respectively, 48.3% and 12.2% of patients had ≥1 dose reduction and/or treatment interruption, and adverse events led to permanent discontinuation of the trial drug in 16.0% and 8.7% of patients. The adverse events associated with nintedanib were similar across subgroups defined by age, sex, race and weight. The rate of decline in forced vital capacity in patients treated with nintedanib was similar irrespective of dose adjustments. CONCLUSIONS The adverse event profile of nintedanib in patients with SSc-ILD is consistent with its established safety and tolerability profile in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Dose adjustment is important to minimise the impact of adverse events and help patients remain on therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- James R Seibold
- Scleroderma Research Consultants, LLC, Aiken, South Carolina, USA
| | - Toby M Maher
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, UK
- National Institute for Health Research Clinical Research Facility, Royal Brompton Hospital, London, UK
- Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | | | - Shervin Assassi
- University of Texas Houston Medical School, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Arata Azuma
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine and Oncology, Graduate School of Medicine, Nippon Medical School, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Laura Kathleen Hummers
- Division of Rheumatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Ulrich Costabel
- Interstitial and Rare Lung Disease Unit, Department of Pneumology, Ruhrlandklinik, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | | | | | | | - Margarida Alves
- Boehringer Ingelheim International GmbH, Ingelheim am Rhein, Germany
| | - Oliver Distler
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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17
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Nakane S, Mukaino A, Ihara E, Ogawa Y. Autoimmune gastrointestinal dysmotility: the interface between clinical immunology and neurogastroenterology. Immunol Med 2020; 44:74-85. [DOI: 10.1080/25785826.2020.1797319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Shunya Nakane
- Department of Molecular Neurology and Therapeutics, Kumamoto University Hospital, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Akihiro Mukaino
- Department of Molecular Neurology and Therapeutics, Kumamoto University Hospital, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Eikichi Ihara
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
- Department of Medicine and Bioregulatory Science, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Yoshihiro Ogawa
- Department of Medicine and Bioregulatory Science, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
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18
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Nakane S, Umeda M, Kawashiri SY, Mukaino A, Ichinose K, Higuchi O, Maeda Y, Nakamura H, Matsuo H, Kawakami A. Detecting gastrointestinal manifestations in patients with systemic sclerosis using anti-gAChR antibodies. Arthritis Res Ther 2020; 22:32. [PMID: 32085768 PMCID: PMC7035754 DOI: 10.1186/s13075-020-2128-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2019] [Accepted: 02/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc) complicated by gastrointestinal dysmotility are difficult to treat and have high mortality. To clarify the pathogenesis of gastrointestinal manifestations, we aimed to demonstrate the association among the clinical features of SSc, the serological markers, the autoantibodies against nicotinic acetylcholine receptor at autonomic ganglia (gAChR). METHODS Fifty patients were enrolled and divided into two groups according to the presence or absence of gastrointestinal manifestations, and the characteristics were analyzed between these two groups. We measured biomarkers and the autoantibodies against two gAChRα3 and β4 subunits to test sera samples. Furthermore, patients were classified based on the presence or absence of anti-gAChR autoantibodies, and their clinical features were compared. RESULTS In patients with SSc and gastrointestinal manifestations, digital ulcers were more frequent (p = 0.050) and VEGF expression was significantly higher (p = 0.038). Seven subjects with SSc were seropositive for α3 subunit, whereas one patient was seropositive for β4 subunit. The mean level of anti-gAChRα3 autoantibodies in SSc patients with gastrointestinal manifestations was significantly higher than that in SSc patients without gastrointestinal manifestations (p = 0.001). The group of patients with SSc and gAChR autoantibodies had significantly higher endostatin levels (p = 0.046). CONCLUSIONS This study is the first to demonstrate that clinical characteristics of SSc patients with seropositivity for gAChR autoantibodies. Patients with SSc have circulating autoantibodies against gAChR, which may contribute to gastrointestinal manifestations associated with this disease, suggesting that gAChR-mediated autonomic neurotransmission may provide a pathomechanism for gastrointestinal dysmotility in SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shunya Nakane
- Department of Neuroimmunology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki, Japan
- Department of Clinical Research, Nagasaki Kawatana Medical Center, Nagasaki, Japan
- Department of Neurology, Nagasaki Kawatana Medical Center, Nagasaki, Japan
- Department of Molecular Neurology and Therapeutics, Kumamoto University Hospital, 1-1-1, Honjo, Chuouku, Kumamoto-shi, Kumamoto, 860-8556 Japan
| | - Masataka Umeda
- Department of Immunology and Rheumatology, Unit of Translational Medicine, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Shin-ya Kawashiri
- Department of Immunology and Rheumatology, Unit of Translational Medicine, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Akihiro Mukaino
- Department of Molecular Neurology and Therapeutics, Kumamoto University Hospital, 1-1-1, Honjo, Chuouku, Kumamoto-shi, Kumamoto, 860-8556 Japan
- Department of Neurology and Strokology, Nagasaki University Hospital, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Kunihiro Ichinose
- Department of Immunology and Rheumatology, Unit of Translational Medicine, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Osamu Higuchi
- Department of Clinical Research, Nagasaki Kawatana Medical Center, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Maeda
- Department of Neuroimmunology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki, Japan
- Department of Clinical Research, Nagasaki Kawatana Medical Center, Nagasaki, Japan
- Department of Neurology, Nagasaki Kawatana Medical Center, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Hideki Nakamura
- Department of Immunology and Rheumatology, Unit of Translational Medicine, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Hidenori Matsuo
- Department of Neurology, Nagasaki Kawatana Medical Center, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Atsushi Kawakami
- Department of Immunology and Rheumatology, Unit of Translational Medicine, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
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Bellini M, Tonarelli S, Nagy AG, Pancetti A, Costa F, Ricchiuti A, de Bortoli N, Mosca M, Marchi S, Rossi A. Low FODMAP Diet: Evidence, Doubts, and Hopes. Nutrients 2020; 12:E148. [PMID: 31947991 PMCID: PMC7019579 DOI: 10.3390/nu12010148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2019] [Revised: 12/30/2019] [Accepted: 12/31/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Food is often considered to be a precipitating factor of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in FODMAPs (Fermentable Oligo-, Di-, Mono-saccharides, And Polyols), which can be found in many common foods. A low FODMAP diet (LFD) is increasingly suggested for IBS treatment. However, long-term, large, randomized controlled studies are still lacking, and certainties and doubts regarding LFDs have grown, often in a disorderly and confused manner. Some potential LFD limitations and concerns have been raised, including nutritional adequacy, cost, and difficulty in teaching the diet and maintaining it. Most of these limitations can be solved with the involvement of a skilled nutritionist, who can clearly explain the different phases of the LFD and ensure nutritional adequacy and compliance. Further studies should focus on new methods of teaching and learning the LFD and on predictors of response. Moreover, particular interest should be focused on the possible use of LFD in gastrointestinal diseases other than functional disorders and, possibly, also in non-gastrointestinal diseases. The aim of the present review was to clarify the effective and appropriate indications and limitations of an LFD and to discuss its possible future uses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimo Bellini
- Gastrointestinal Unit–Department of Translational Sciences and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (S.T.); (A.G.N.); (A.P.); (F.C.); (A.R.); (N.d.B.); (S.M.)
| | - Sara Tonarelli
- Gastrointestinal Unit–Department of Translational Sciences and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (S.T.); (A.G.N.); (A.P.); (F.C.); (A.R.); (N.d.B.); (S.M.)
| | - Attila G. Nagy
- Gastrointestinal Unit–Department of Translational Sciences and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (S.T.); (A.G.N.); (A.P.); (F.C.); (A.R.); (N.d.B.); (S.M.)
| | - Andrea Pancetti
- Gastrointestinal Unit–Department of Translational Sciences and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (S.T.); (A.G.N.); (A.P.); (F.C.); (A.R.); (N.d.B.); (S.M.)
| | - Francesco Costa
- Gastrointestinal Unit–Department of Translational Sciences and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (S.T.); (A.G.N.); (A.P.); (F.C.); (A.R.); (N.d.B.); (S.M.)
| | - Angelo Ricchiuti
- Gastrointestinal Unit–Department of Translational Sciences and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (S.T.); (A.G.N.); (A.P.); (F.C.); (A.R.); (N.d.B.); (S.M.)
| | - Nicola de Bortoli
- Gastrointestinal Unit–Department of Translational Sciences and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (S.T.); (A.G.N.); (A.P.); (F.C.); (A.R.); (N.d.B.); (S.M.)
| | - Marta Mosca
- Clinical and Experimental Medicine–Rheumatology Unit, University of Pisa, 56100 Pisa, Italy; (M.M.); (A.R.)
| | - Santino Marchi
- Gastrointestinal Unit–Department of Translational Sciences and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (S.T.); (A.G.N.); (A.P.); (F.C.); (A.R.); (N.d.B.); (S.M.)
| | - Alessandra Rossi
- Clinical and Experimental Medicine–Rheumatology Unit, University of Pisa, 56100 Pisa, Italy; (M.M.); (A.R.)
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