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Nalbant E, Akkaya-Ulum YZ. Exploring regulatory mechanisms on miRNAs and their implications in inflammation-related diseases. Clin Exp Med 2024; 24:142. [PMID: 38958690 PMCID: PMC11222192 DOI: 10.1007/s10238-024-01334-y] [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: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
This comprehensive exploration delves into the pivotal role of microRNAs (miRNAs) within the intricate tapestry of cellular regulation. As potent orchestrators of gene expression, miRNAs exhibit diverse functions in cellular processes, extending their influence from the nucleus to the cytoplasm. The complex journey of miRNA biogenesis, involving transcription, processing, and integration into the RNA-induced silencing complex, showcases their versatility. In the cytoplasm, mature miRNAs finely tune cellular functions by modulating target mRNA expression, while their reach extends into the nucleus, influencing transcriptional regulation and epigenetic modifications. Dysregulation of miRNAs becomes apparent in various pathologies, such as cancer, autoimmune diseases, and inflammatory conditions. The adaptability of miRNAs to environmental signals, interactions with transcription factors, and involvement in intricate regulatory networks underscore their significance. DNA methylation and histone modifications adds depth to understanding the dynamic regulation of miRNAs. Mechanisms like competition with RNA-binding proteins, sponging, and the control of miRNA levels through degradation and editing contribute to this complex regulation process. In this review, we mainly focus on how dysregulation of miRNA expression can be related with skin-related autoimmune and autoinflammatory diseases, arthritis, cardiovascular diseases, inflammatory bowel disease, autoimmune and autoinflammatory diseases, and neurodegenerative disorders. We also emphasize the multifaceted roles of miRNAs, urging continued research to unravel their complexities. The mechanisms governing miRNA functions promise advancements in therapeutic interventions and enhanced insights into cellular dynamics in health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emre Nalbant
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Hacettepe University, 06100, Sihhiye, Ankara, Türkiye
| | - Yeliz Z Akkaya-Ulum
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Hacettepe University, 06100, Sihhiye, Ankara, Türkiye.
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2
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Sharma M, Fadl A, Leask A. Orofacial Complications of the Connective Tissue Disease Systemic Sclerosis. J Dent Res 2024; 103:689-696. [PMID: 38779873 PMCID: PMC11191658 DOI: 10.1177/00220345241249408] [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: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Scleroderma (systemic sclerosis, SSc) is an autoimmune fibrosing connective tissue disease of unknown etiology. SSc patients show increased levels of autoantibodies, profibrotic cytokines, and extracellular matrix remodeling enzymes that collectively cause activated (myo)fibroblasts, the effector cell type of fibrosis. Despite these impacts, no disease-modifying therapy exists; individual symptoms are treated on a patient-to-patient basis. SSc research has been principally focused on symptoms observed in the lung and skin. However, SSc patients display significant oral complications that arise due to fibrosis of the not only skin, causing microstomia, but also the gastrointestinal tract, causing acid reflux, and the oral cavity itself, causing xerostomia and gingival recession. Due to these complications, SSc patients have impaired quality of life, including periodontitis, tooth loss, reduced tongue mobility, and malnutrition. Indeed, due to their characteristic oral presentation, SSc patients are often initially diagnosed by dentists. Despite their clinical importance, the oral complications of SSc are severely understudied; high-quality publications on this topic are scant. However, SSc patients with periodontal complications possess increased levels of matrix metalloproteinase-9 and chemokines, such as interleukin-6 and chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand-4. Although many unsuccessful clinical trials, mainly exploring the antifibrotic effects of anti-inflammatory agents, have been conducted in SSc, none have used oral symptoms, which may be more amenable to anti-inflammatory drugs, as clinical end points. This review summarizes the current state of knowledge regarding oral complications in SSc with the goal of inspiring future research in this extremely important and underinvestigated area.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. Sharma
- Department of Psychology and Health Studies, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - A. Fadl
- College of Dentistry, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - A. Leask
- College of Dentistry, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
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3
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Becker SL, Kody S, Fett NM, Hines A, Alavi A, Ortega-Loayza AG. Approach to the Atypical Wound. Am J Clin Dermatol 2024; 25:559-584. [PMID: 38744780 DOI: 10.1007/s40257-024-00865-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
The heterogeneity of atypical wounds can present diagnostic and therapeutic challenges; however, as the prevalence of atypical wounds grows worldwide, prompt and accurate management is increasingly an essential skill for dermatologists. Addressing the underlying cause of an atypical wound is critical for successful outcomes. An integrated approach with a focus on pain management and patient engagement is recommended to facilitate enduring wound closure. Advances in treatment, in addition to further research and clinical training, are necessary to address the expanding burden of atypical wounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah L Becker
- Department of Dermatology, Oregon Health & Science University, 3303 S Bond Ave Building 1, 16th Floor, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
| | - Shannon Kody
- Department of Dermatology, Oregon Health & Science University, 3303 S Bond Ave Building 1, 16th Floor, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
| | - Nicole M Fett
- Department of Dermatology, Oregon Health & Science University, 3303 S Bond Ave Building 1, 16th Floor, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
| | | | - Afsaneh Alavi
- Department of Dermatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Alex G Ortega-Loayza
- Department of Dermatology, Oregon Health & Science University, 3303 S Bond Ave Building 1, 16th Floor, Portland, OR, 97239, USA.
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4
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Foti R, Zeppieri M, Foti R, Visalli E, Amato G, Amato R, Dammino E, D’Esposito F, Gagliano C. Retinal Vascular Abnormalities and Clinical Parameters in Systemic Sclerosis. J Clin Med 2024; 13:2738. [PMID: 38792282 PMCID: PMC11122651 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13102738] [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: 03/19/2024] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Systemic sclerosis is a complex autoimmune disease characterized by vasculopathy, fibrosis, and immune dysregulation. Ocular manifestations in these patients are increasingly recognized, suggesting potential correlations between systemic vascular abnormalities and ocular microvascular changes. Advancements in molecular immunology and imaging technology using ocular coherence tomography (OCT) have unveiled intricate pathways underlying possible disease pathogenesis. Understanding the interplay between retinal vascular abnormalities and molecular immunology parameters could provide insights into disease mechanisms and potential biomarkers. Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate vascular abnormalities, detected with optical coherence tomography angiography (OCT-A), in systemic sclerosis patients and to find correlations between the severity of the disease detected with molecular immunology findings and OCT-A parameters. Methods: A group of 32 systemic sclerosis patients were compared with 9 healthy controls. Ganglion cell complex thickness (GCC), retina thickness of the fovea and parafovea, nerve fiber layer thickness (RNFL) and cup/disc area ratio were investigated using OCT. Vessel density (VD) of the superficial (SCP) and deep capillary plexus (DCP) of the whole macular area and ETDRS grid, size of the foveal avascular zone (FAZ) and vessel density of the radial peripapillary capillary plexus (RPCP) were evaluated using OCT-A. Modified Rodnan skin score (mRSS), capillaroscopy and disease duration were used to stage disease severity. Results: There was a statistically significant reduction in retina thickness of the fovea and parafovea, VD of the whole DCP, VD of the SCP and DCP in ETDRS grid in the patient group compared to controls (p < 0.001). The patients presented a significant enlargement of the FAZ (p 0.005). No significant correlation between OCT and OCT-A parameters and disease severity scores was found. Conclusions: OCT-A could represent a non-invasive tool to detect retinal microvascular damage in systemic sclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosario Foti
- Rheumatology Unit, Policlinico San Marco Hospital, 95121 Catania, Italy; (R.F.)
| | - Marco Zeppieri
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Roberta Foti
- Rheumatology Unit, Policlinico San Marco Hospital, 95121 Catania, Italy; (R.F.)
| | - Elisa Visalli
- Rheumatology Unit, Policlinico San Marco Hospital, 95121 Catania, Italy; (R.F.)
| | - Giorgio Amato
- Rheumatology Unit, Policlinico San Marco Hospital, 95121 Catania, Italy; (R.F.)
| | - Roberta Amato
- Eye Clinic, Catania University, San Marco Hospital, Viale Carlo Azeglio Ciampi, 95121 Catania, Italy (C.G.)
| | - Edoardo Dammino
- Eye Clinic, Catania University, San Marco Hospital, Viale Carlo Azeglio Ciampi, 95121 Catania, Italy (C.G.)
| | - Fabiana D’Esposito
- Imperial College Ophthalmic Research Group (ICORG) Unit, Imperial College, London NW1 5QH, UK
| | - Caterina Gagliano
- Eye Clinic, Catania University, San Marco Hospital, Viale Carlo Azeglio Ciampi, 95121 Catania, Italy (C.G.)
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Enna “Kore”, Piazza dell’Università, 94100 Enna, Italy
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5
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Liu J, Wang J, Zhang Q, Lu F, Cai J. Clinical, Histologic, and Transcriptomic Evaluation of Sequential Fat Grafting for Morphea: A Nonrandomized Controlled Trial. JAMA Dermatol 2024; 160:425-433. [PMID: 38324287 PMCID: PMC11024779 DOI: 10.1001/jamadermatol.2023.5908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
Importance Morphea is a rare disease of unknown etiology without satisfactory treatment for skin sclerosis and soft tissue atrophy. Objective To provide clinical, histologic, and transcriptome evidence of the antisclerotic and regenerative effects of sequential fat grafting with fresh fat and cryopreserved stromal vascular fraction gel (SVF gel) for morphea. Design, Setting, and Participants This single-center, nonrandomized controlled trial was conducted between January 2022 and March 2023 in the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery of Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University and included adult participants with early-onset or late-onset morphea who presented with varying degrees of skin sclerosis and soft tissue defect. Interventions Group 1 received sequential grafting of fresh fat and cryopreserved SVF gel (at 1 and 2 months postoperation). Group 2 received single autologous fat grafting. All patients were included in a 12-month follow-up. Main Outcome and Measures The primary outcome included changes in the modified Localized Scleroderma Skin Severity Index (mLoSSI) and Localized Scleroderma Skin Damage Index (LoSDI) scores as evaluated by 2 independent blinded dermatologists. The histologic and transcriptome changes of morphea skin lesions were also evaluated. Results Of 44 patients (median [IQR] age, 26 [23-33] years; 36 women [81.8%]) enrolled, 24 (54.5%) were assigned to group 1 and 20 (45.5%) to group 2. No serious adverse events were noted. The mean (SD) mLoSSI scores at 12 months showed a 1.6 (1.50) decrease in group 1 and 0.9 (1.46) in group 2 (P = .13), whereas the mean (SD) LoSDI scores at 12 months showed a 4.3 (1.34) decrease in group 1 and 2.1 (1.07) in group 2 (P < .001), indicating that group 1 had more significant improvement in morphea skin damage but not disease activity compared with group 2. Histologic analysis showed improved skin regeneration and reduced skin sclerosis in group 1, whereas skin biopsy specimens of group 2 patients did not show significant change. Transcriptome analysis of skin biopsy specimens from group 1 patients suggested that tumor necrosis factor α signaling via NFκB might contribute to the immunosuppressive and antifibrotic effect of sequential fat grafting. A total of 15 hub genes were captured, among which many associated with morphea pathogenesis were downregulated and validated by immunohistochemistry, such as EDN1, PAI-1, and CTGF. Conclusions and Relevance The results of this nonrandomized trial suggest that sequential fat grafting with fresh fat and cryopreserved SVF gel was safe and its therapeutic effect was superior to that of single autologous fat grafting with improved mLoSSI and LoSDI scores. Histological and transcriptomic changes further support the effectiveness after treatment. Trial Registration Chinese Clinical Trial Registry identifier: ChiCTR2200058003.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juzi Liu
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Plastic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qian Zhang
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Feng Lu
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Junrong Cai
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
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6
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Tuhy T, Hassoun PM. Clinical features of pulmonary arterial hypertension associated with systemic sclerosis. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1264906. [PMID: 37828949 PMCID: PMC10565655 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1264906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis is an autoimmune disorder of the connective tissue characterized by disordered inflammation and fibrosis leading to skin thickening and visceral organ complications. Pulmonary involvement, in the form of pulmonary arterial hypertension and/or interstitial lung disease, is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality among individuals with scleroderma. There are no disease-specific therapies for pulmonary involvement of scleroderma, and pulmonary arterial hypertension in this cohort has typically been associated with worse outcomes and less clinical response to modern therapy compared to other forms of Group I pulmonary hypertension in the classification from the World Symposium on Pulmonary Hypertension. Ongoing research aims to delineate how pathologic microvascular remodeling and fibrosis contribute to this poor response and offer a window into future therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Paul M. Hassoun
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
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7
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Khan SL, Mathai SC. Scleroderma pulmonary arterial hypertension: the same as idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension? Curr Opin Pulm Med 2023; 29:380-390. [PMID: 37461869 DOI: 10.1097/mcp.0000000000001001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/03/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a common complication of systemic sclerosis (SSc), which confers significant morbidity and mortality. The current therapies and treatment strategies for SSc-associated PAH (SSc-PAH) are informed by those used to treat patients with idiopathic PAH (IPAH). There are, however, important differences between these two diseases that impact diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes. RECENT FINDINGS Both SSc-PAH and IPAH are incompletely understood with ongoing research into the underlying cellular biology that characterize and differentiate the two diseases. Additional research seeks to improve identification among SSc patients in order to diagnose patients earlier in the course of their disease. Novel therapies specifically for SSc-PAH such as rituximab and dimethyl fumarate are under investigation. SUMMARY Although patients with SSc-PAH and IPAH present with similar symptoms, there are significant differences between these two forms of PAH that warrant further investigation and characterization of optimal detection strategies, treatment algorithms, and outcomes assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah L Khan
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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8
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Xing E, Ma F, Wasikowski R, Billi AC, Gharaee-Kermani M, Fox J, Dobry C, Victory A, Sarkar MK, Xing X, Plazyo O, Chen HW, Barber G, Jacobe H, Tsou PS, Modlin RL, Varga J, Kahlenberg JM, Tsoi LC, Gudjonsson JE, Khanna D. Pansclerotic morphea is characterized by IFN-γ responses priming dendritic cell fibroblast crosstalk to promote fibrosis. JCI Insight 2023; 8:e171307. [PMID: 37471168 PMCID: PMC10543736 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.171307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Pansclerotic morphea (PSM) is a rare, devastating disease characterized by extensive soft tissue fibrosis, secondary contractions, and significant morbidity. PSM pathogenesis is unknown, and aggressive immunosuppressive treatments rarely slow disease progression. We aimed to characterize molecular mechanisms driving PSM and to identify therapeutically targetable pathways by performing single-cell and spatial RNA-Seq on 7 healthy controls and on lesional and nonlesional skin biopsies of a patient with PSM 12 months apart. We then validated our findings using immunostaining and in vitro approaches. Fibrotic skin was characterized by prominent type II IFN response, accompanied by infiltrating myeloid cells, B cells, and T cells, which were the main IFN-γ source. We identified unique CXCL9+ fibroblasts enriched in PSM, characterized by increased chemokine expression, including CXCL9, CXCL10, and CCL2. CXCL9+ fibroblasts were related to profibrotic COL8A1+ myofibroblasts, which had enriched TGF-β response. In vitro, TGF-β and IFN-γ synergistically increased CXCL9 and CXCL10 expression, contributing to the perpetuation of IFN-γ responses. Furthermore, cell-to-cell interaction analyses revealed cDC2B DCs as a key communication hub between CXCL9+ fibroblasts and COL8A1+ myofibroblasts. These results define PSM as an inflammation-driven condition centered on type II IFN responses. This work identified key pathogenic circuits between T cells, cDC2Bs, and myofibroblasts, and it suggests that JAK1/2 inhibition is a potential therapeutic option in PSM.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Feiyang Ma
- Department of Dermatology
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine; and
| | - Rachael Wasikowski
- Department of Dermatology
- Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Amanda Victory
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine; and
| | | | | | | | - Henry W. Chen
- Department of Dermatology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Grant Barber
- Department of Dermatology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Heidi Jacobe
- Department of Dermatology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Pei-Suen Tsou
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine; and
| | - Robert L. Modlin
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - John Varga
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine; and
- University of Michigan SSc Program, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - J. Michelle Kahlenberg
- Department of Dermatology
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine; and
- Taubman Institute, Michigan Medicine, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Lam C. Tsoi
- Department of Dermatology
- Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Johann E. Gudjonsson
- Department of Dermatology
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine; and
- Taubman Institute, Michigan Medicine, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Dinesh Khanna
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine; and
- University of Michigan SSc Program, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
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9
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Trenaman L, Kaal KJ, Laba TL, Safari A, Aguiar M, Burch T, Beckett J, Munro S, Hudson M, Harrison M. The financial burden of accessing care for people with scleroderma in Canada: a patient-oriented, cross-sectional survey. CMAJ Open 2023; 11:E630-E636. [PMID: 37437955 PMCID: PMC10356003 DOI: 10.9778/cmajo.20220227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with scleroderma require a lifetime of treatment and frequent contacts with rheumatologists and other health care professionals. Although publicly funded health care systems in Canada cover many costs, patients may still face a substantial financial burden in accessing care. The purpose of this study was to quantify out-of-pocket costs borne by people with scleroderma in Canada and compare this burden for those living in large communities and smaller communities. METHODS We analyzed responses to a Web-based survey of people living in Canada with scleroderma. Respondents reported annual out-of-pocket medical, travel and accommodation and other nonmedical costs (2019 Canadian dollars). We used descriptive statistics to describe travel distance and out-of-pocket costs. We used a 2-part model to estimate the impact on out-of-pocket costs of living in a large urban centre (≥ 100 000 population), compared with smaller urban centres or rural areas (< 100 000 population). We generated combined mean estimates from the 2-part models using predictive margins. RESULTS The survey included 120 people in Canada with scleroderma. The mean, annual, total out-of-pocket costs were $3357 (standard deviation $5580). Respondents living in smaller urban centres and rural areas reported higher mean total costs ($4148, 95% confidence interval [CI] $3618-$4680) and travel or accommodation costs ($1084, 95% CI $804-$1364) than those in larger urban centres (total costs $2678, 95% CI $2252-$3104; travel or accommodation costs $332, 95% CI $207-$458). INTERPRETATION Many patients with scleroderma incur considerable out-of-pocket costs, and this burden is exacerbated for those living in smaller urban centres and rural areas. Health care systems and providers should consider ways to alleviate this burden and support equitable access to care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Logan Trenaman
- Centre for Health Evaluation and Outcome Sciences (Trenaman, Munro, Harrison), Vancouver, BC; Department of Community Health and Epidemiology (Kaal), Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS; Clinical and Health Sciences Unit (Laba), The University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia; Centre for Health Economics Research and Evaluation (Laba), University of Technology, Sydney, Australia; College of Science (Safari), School of Mathematics, Statistics and Computer Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran; Collaboration for Outcomes Research and Evaluation (Aguiar, Harrison), Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC; Scleroderma Association of British Columbia (Burch), North Vancouver, BC; Patient partner (Burch), Vancouver, BC; Patient partner (Beckett), Kamloops, BC; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (Munro), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC; Division of Rheumatology (Hudson), Jewish General Hospital and Lady Davis Institute; Department of Medicine (Hudson), McGill University, Montréal, Que.; Arthritis Research Canada (Hudson, Harrison), Vancouver, BC
| | - K Julia Kaal
- Centre for Health Evaluation and Outcome Sciences (Trenaman, Munro, Harrison), Vancouver, BC; Department of Community Health and Epidemiology (Kaal), Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS; Clinical and Health Sciences Unit (Laba), The University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia; Centre for Health Economics Research and Evaluation (Laba), University of Technology, Sydney, Australia; College of Science (Safari), School of Mathematics, Statistics and Computer Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran; Collaboration for Outcomes Research and Evaluation (Aguiar, Harrison), Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC; Scleroderma Association of British Columbia (Burch), North Vancouver, BC; Patient partner (Burch), Vancouver, BC; Patient partner (Beckett), Kamloops, BC; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (Munro), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC; Division of Rheumatology (Hudson), Jewish General Hospital and Lady Davis Institute; Department of Medicine (Hudson), McGill University, Montréal, Que.; Arthritis Research Canada (Hudson, Harrison), Vancouver, BC
| | - Tracey-Lea Laba
- Centre for Health Evaluation and Outcome Sciences (Trenaman, Munro, Harrison), Vancouver, BC; Department of Community Health and Epidemiology (Kaal), Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS; Clinical and Health Sciences Unit (Laba), The University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia; Centre for Health Economics Research and Evaluation (Laba), University of Technology, Sydney, Australia; College of Science (Safari), School of Mathematics, Statistics and Computer Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran; Collaboration for Outcomes Research and Evaluation (Aguiar, Harrison), Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC; Scleroderma Association of British Columbia (Burch), North Vancouver, BC; Patient partner (Burch), Vancouver, BC; Patient partner (Beckett), Kamloops, BC; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (Munro), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC; Division of Rheumatology (Hudson), Jewish General Hospital and Lady Davis Institute; Department of Medicine (Hudson), McGill University, Montréal, Que.; Arthritis Research Canada (Hudson, Harrison), Vancouver, BC
| | - Abdollah Safari
- Centre for Health Evaluation and Outcome Sciences (Trenaman, Munro, Harrison), Vancouver, BC; Department of Community Health and Epidemiology (Kaal), Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS; Clinical and Health Sciences Unit (Laba), The University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia; Centre for Health Economics Research and Evaluation (Laba), University of Technology, Sydney, Australia; College of Science (Safari), School of Mathematics, Statistics and Computer Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran; Collaboration for Outcomes Research and Evaluation (Aguiar, Harrison), Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC; Scleroderma Association of British Columbia (Burch), North Vancouver, BC; Patient partner (Burch), Vancouver, BC; Patient partner (Beckett), Kamloops, BC; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (Munro), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC; Division of Rheumatology (Hudson), Jewish General Hospital and Lady Davis Institute; Department of Medicine (Hudson), McGill University, Montréal, Que.; Arthritis Research Canada (Hudson, Harrison), Vancouver, BC
| | - Magda Aguiar
- Centre for Health Evaluation and Outcome Sciences (Trenaman, Munro, Harrison), Vancouver, BC; Department of Community Health and Epidemiology (Kaal), Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS; Clinical and Health Sciences Unit (Laba), The University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia; Centre for Health Economics Research and Evaluation (Laba), University of Technology, Sydney, Australia; College of Science (Safari), School of Mathematics, Statistics and Computer Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran; Collaboration for Outcomes Research and Evaluation (Aguiar, Harrison), Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC; Scleroderma Association of British Columbia (Burch), North Vancouver, BC; Patient partner (Burch), Vancouver, BC; Patient partner (Beckett), Kamloops, BC; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (Munro), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC; Division of Rheumatology (Hudson), Jewish General Hospital and Lady Davis Institute; Department of Medicine (Hudson), McGill University, Montréal, Que.; Arthritis Research Canada (Hudson, Harrison), Vancouver, BC
| | - Tiasha Burch
- Centre for Health Evaluation and Outcome Sciences (Trenaman, Munro, Harrison), Vancouver, BC; Department of Community Health and Epidemiology (Kaal), Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS; Clinical and Health Sciences Unit (Laba), The University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia; Centre for Health Economics Research and Evaluation (Laba), University of Technology, Sydney, Australia; College of Science (Safari), School of Mathematics, Statistics and Computer Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran; Collaboration for Outcomes Research and Evaluation (Aguiar, Harrison), Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC; Scleroderma Association of British Columbia (Burch), North Vancouver, BC; Patient partner (Burch), Vancouver, BC; Patient partner (Beckett), Kamloops, BC; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (Munro), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC; Division of Rheumatology (Hudson), Jewish General Hospital and Lady Davis Institute; Department of Medicine (Hudson), McGill University, Montréal, Que.; Arthritis Research Canada (Hudson, Harrison), Vancouver, BC
| | - Jennifer Beckett
- Centre for Health Evaluation and Outcome Sciences (Trenaman, Munro, Harrison), Vancouver, BC; Department of Community Health and Epidemiology (Kaal), Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS; Clinical and Health Sciences Unit (Laba), The University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia; Centre for Health Economics Research and Evaluation (Laba), University of Technology, Sydney, Australia; College of Science (Safari), School of Mathematics, Statistics and Computer Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran; Collaboration for Outcomes Research and Evaluation (Aguiar, Harrison), Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC; Scleroderma Association of British Columbia (Burch), North Vancouver, BC; Patient partner (Burch), Vancouver, BC; Patient partner (Beckett), Kamloops, BC; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (Munro), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC; Division of Rheumatology (Hudson), Jewish General Hospital and Lady Davis Institute; Department of Medicine (Hudson), McGill University, Montréal, Que.; Arthritis Research Canada (Hudson, Harrison), Vancouver, BC
| | - Sarah Munro
- Centre for Health Evaluation and Outcome Sciences (Trenaman, Munro, Harrison), Vancouver, BC; Department of Community Health and Epidemiology (Kaal), Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS; Clinical and Health Sciences Unit (Laba), The University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia; Centre for Health Economics Research and Evaluation (Laba), University of Technology, Sydney, Australia; College of Science (Safari), School of Mathematics, Statistics and Computer Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran; Collaboration for Outcomes Research and Evaluation (Aguiar, Harrison), Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC; Scleroderma Association of British Columbia (Burch), North Vancouver, BC; Patient partner (Burch), Vancouver, BC; Patient partner (Beckett), Kamloops, BC; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (Munro), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC; Division of Rheumatology (Hudson), Jewish General Hospital and Lady Davis Institute; Department of Medicine (Hudson), McGill University, Montréal, Que.; Arthritis Research Canada (Hudson, Harrison), Vancouver, BC
| | - Marie Hudson
- Centre for Health Evaluation and Outcome Sciences (Trenaman, Munro, Harrison), Vancouver, BC; Department of Community Health and Epidemiology (Kaal), Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS; Clinical and Health Sciences Unit (Laba), The University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia; Centre for Health Economics Research and Evaluation (Laba), University of Technology, Sydney, Australia; College of Science (Safari), School of Mathematics, Statistics and Computer Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran; Collaboration for Outcomes Research and Evaluation (Aguiar, Harrison), Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC; Scleroderma Association of British Columbia (Burch), North Vancouver, BC; Patient partner (Burch), Vancouver, BC; Patient partner (Beckett), Kamloops, BC; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (Munro), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC; Division of Rheumatology (Hudson), Jewish General Hospital and Lady Davis Institute; Department of Medicine (Hudson), McGill University, Montréal, Que.; Arthritis Research Canada (Hudson, Harrison), Vancouver, BC
| | - Mark Harrison
- Centre for Health Evaluation and Outcome Sciences (Trenaman, Munro, Harrison), Vancouver, BC; Department of Community Health and Epidemiology (Kaal), Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS; Clinical and Health Sciences Unit (Laba), The University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia; Centre for Health Economics Research and Evaluation (Laba), University of Technology, Sydney, Australia; College of Science (Safari), School of Mathematics, Statistics and Computer Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran; Collaboration for Outcomes Research and Evaluation (Aguiar, Harrison), Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC; Scleroderma Association of British Columbia (Burch), North Vancouver, BC; Patient partner (Burch), Vancouver, BC; Patient partner (Beckett), Kamloops, BC; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (Munro), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC; Division of Rheumatology (Hudson), Jewish General Hospital and Lady Davis Institute; Department of Medicine (Hudson), McGill University, Montréal, Que.; Arthritis Research Canada (Hudson, Harrison), Vancouver, BC
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10
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Ghosh S, Tanna D, Telang K, Dhuria S, Gupta R. Clinical and autoantibody profiles of systemic sclerosis patients: A cross-sectional study from North India. Indian J Dermatol Venereol Leprol 2023; 0:1-7. [PMID: 37436007 DOI: 10.25259/ijdvl_901_2022] [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: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2023]
Abstract
Objectives This cross-sectional study was designed to assess the clinical profile and frequency of associated autoantibodies in all consecutive patients classified as systemic sclerosis (SSc) at Medanta-the Medicity Hospital, Gurgaon, India. Methods Between August 2017 and July 2019, we identified a total of 119 consecutive patients meeting the American College of Rheumatology/European League Against Rheumatism (ACR/EULAR) 2013 criteria for SSc and 106 patients consented to this study. Their clinical and serological data at the time of enrolment were analysed. Results Our cohort had a mean age at symptom onset of 40 ± 13 years with a median symptom duration of 6 years. We had 76 patients (71.7%) with interstitial lung disease (ILD), which was a higher proportion compared to European cohorts. 62 patients (58.5%) had diffuse cutaneous involvement which was significantly associated with anti-Scl70 antibodies (p < 0.001), digital ulcers (p = 0.039) and the presence of ILD (p = 0.004). 65 patients (61.3%) had anti-Scl70 and 15 patients (14.2%) had anti-centromere (anti-CENP) antibodies. Scl70 positivity was associated with the presence of ILD (p < 0.001) and digital ulcers (p = 0.01). Centromere antibodies had a negative association with ILD (p < 0.001), but was a risk factor for calcinosis (p < 0.001) and pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) (p = 0.01). The combination of diffuse cutaneous disease and Scl70 antibodies was the strongest predictor of ILD and digital ulcers (p = 0.015). sm/RMP, RNP68 and Ku antibodies correlated with musculoskeletal involvement (p < 0.01), while all seven of the patients with Pm/Scl antibodies had ILD. Renal involvement was noted in only two patients. Limitations A single-centre study may not capture the true prevalence of disease characteristics in the population. Referral bias for patients with diffuse cutaneous disease has been noted. Data on RNA-Polymerase antibodies have not been provided. Conclusion North Indian patients have some characteristic differences in disease phenotype as compared to their Caucasian counterparts with a larger proportion of patients presenting with ILD and Scl70 antibodies. Antibodies against Ku, RNP and Pm/Scl occur in a minority of patients, but may be associated with musculoskeletal features.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shounak Ghosh
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Medanta-the Medicity, Gurgaon, Haryana, India
| | - Dhaval Tanna
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Medanta-the Medicity, Gurgaon, Haryana, India
| | - Kaustubh Telang
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Medanta-the Medicity, Gurgaon, Haryana, India
| | - Shahzeene Dhuria
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Medanta-the Medicity, Gurgaon, Haryana, India
| | - Rajiva Gupta
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Medanta-the Medicity, Gurgaon, Haryana, India
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11
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Pilvar A, Mehendale AM, Karrobi K, El-Adili F, Bujor A, Roblyer D. Spatial frequency domain imaging for the assessment of scleroderma skin involvement. BIOMEDICAL OPTICS EXPRESS 2023; 14:2955-2968. [PMID: 37342706 PMCID: PMC10278615 DOI: 10.1364/boe.489609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disease characterized by the widespread deposition of excess collagen in the skin and internal organs, as well as vascular dysfunction. The current standard of care technique used to quantify the extent of skin fibrosis in SSc patients is the modified Rodnan skin score (mRSS), which is an assessment of skin thickness based on clinical palpation. Despite being considered the gold standard, mRSS testing requires a trained physician and suffers from high inter-observer variability. In this study, we evaluated the use of spatial frequency domain imaging (SFDI) as a more quantitative and reliable method for assessing skin fibrosis in SSc patients. SFDI is a wide-field and non-contact imaging technique that utilizes spatially modulated light to generate a map of optical properties in biological tissue. The SFDI data were collected at six measurement sites (left and right forearms, hands, and fingers) of eight control subjects and ten SSc patients. mRSS were assessed by a physician, and skin biopsies were collected from subject's forearms and used to assess for markers of skin fibrosis. Our results indicate that SFDI is sensitive to skin changes even at an early stage, as we found a significant difference in the measured optical scattering (μs') between healthy controls and SSc patients with a local mRSS score of zero (no appreciable skin fibrosis by gold standard). Furthermore, we found a strong correlation between the diffuse reflectance (Rd) at a spatial frequency of 0.2 mm-1 and the total mRSS between all subjects (Spearman correlation coefficient = -0.73, p-value < 0.0028), as well as high correlation with histology results. The healthy volunteer results show excellent inter- and intra-observer reliability (ICC > 0.8). Our results suggest that the measurement of tissue μs' and Rd at specific spatial frequencies and wavelengths can provide an objective and quantitative assessment of skin involvement in SSc patients, which could greatly improve the accuracy and efficiency of monitoring disease progression and evaluating drug efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anahita Pilvar
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Aarohi M. Mehendale
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Kavon Karrobi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Fatima El-Adili
- Division of Rheumatology, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
- Arthritis and Autoimmune Diseases Center, Boston University, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Andreea Bujor
- Division of Rheumatology, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
- Arthritis and Autoimmune Diseases Center, Boston University, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Darren Roblyer
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215, USA
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12
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Namas R, Elarabi M, Khan S, Mubashir A, Memisoglu E, El-Kaissi M, Joshi A, Chapman J, Jassim I, Khogali H, Hassan N, Sabbour H, Saleh K, Alnaqbi KA, Zayat AS, Diab S, Awir Z, Abu Taha N, Ginawi A, Al Ansari A, Rifaai H, Alrawi Z, Al Dhaheri A, Ibrahim G, Abogamal A, Al Shehhi W, Teir J, Khan T, Musgrave M, Hameed B, Khan B, Mosallam N, Hussien N, Hussein I, Abdulelhamid A, Ali A, Hannawi S, Al Izzi M, Badsha H, Al Saleh J. Comprehensive description of the prevalence, serological and clinical characteristics, and visceral involvement of systemic sclerosis (scleroderma) in a large cohort from the United Arab Emirates Systemic Sclerosis Registry. JOURNAL OF SCLERODERMA AND RELATED DISORDERS 2023; 8:137-150. [PMID: 37287950 PMCID: PMC10242692 DOI: 10.1177/23971983221145788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis is an autoimmune condition characterized by a wide range of clinical presentations. Registries may serve to expand understanding about systemic sclerosis and aid in patient care and follow-up. The objective of this study was to analyze the prevalence of systemic sclerosis in a large cohort from the United Arab Emirates Systemic Sclerosis Registry and find the significant similarities and differences between the different subsets. All scleroderma patients in the United Arab Emirates were included in this multicenter national retrospective analysis. Data on demographics, comorbidities, serological characteristics, clinical aspects, and treatment were collected and analyzed, highlighting the most common traits identified. A total of 167 systemic scleroderma patients from diverse ethnic backgrounds were enrolled. Overall, 54.5% (91/167) of the patients were diagnosed with diffuse cutaneous systemic sclerosis, and 45.5% (76/167) with limited cutaneous systemic sclerosis. The prevalence of systemic sclerosis was 1.66 per 100,000 for the total registry and 7.78 per 100,000 for United Arab Emirates patients. Almost all patients in the diffuse cutaneous systemic sclerosis and limited cutaneous systemic sclerosis groups tested positive for the immunofluorescence antinuclear antibody. Antibodies against Scl-70 were significantly more associated with diffuse cutaneous systemic sclerosis, whereas anticentromere antibodies were significantly more associated with the limited cutaneous systemic sclerosis group (p < 0.001). Sclerodactyly, shortness of breath, and digital ulcers were more common in diffuse cutaneous systemic sclerosis patients compared with the limited cutaneous systemic sclerosis subtype in terms of clinical symptoms and organ involvement. Telangiectasia was much more common in the limited cutaneous systemic sclerosis group. Furthermore, diffuse cutaneous systemic sclerosis patients had more lung fibrosis (interstitial lung disease) than limited cutaneous systemic sclerosis patients (70.5% vs 45.7%), and pulmonary arterial hypertension was twice as common in limited cutaneous systemic sclerosis patients as it was in diffuse cutaneous systemic sclerosis patients. Local registries are paramount to understanding the clinical/serological characteristics of scleroderma. This study emphasizes the importance of raising disease awareness and distinguishing between the various systemic sclerosis subsets to implement patient-tailored strategies for early detection, better management, and higher quality of care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajaie Namas
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Mohamed Elarabi
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Saniya Khan
- Respiratory Institute, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Asia Mubashir
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Esat Memisoglu
- Imaging Institute, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | | | - Abhay Joshi
- Division of Rheumatology, Burjeel Day Surgery Center, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Jeffrey Chapman
- Respiratory Institute, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Imad Jassim
- Department of Rheumatology, Tawam Hospital, Al Ain, UAE
| | - Hiba Khogali
- Department of Rheumatology, Tawam Hospital, Al Ain, UAE
| | - Nada Hassan
- Department of Rheumatology, Mediclinic Parkview Hospital, Dubai, UAE
| | - Hani Sabbour
- Heart and Vascular Institute, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Khaled Saleh
- Respiratory Institute, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | | | - Ahmed S Zayat
- Division of Rheumatology, University Hospital Sharjah, Sharjah, UAE
| | - Sehriban Diab
- Division of Rheumatology, Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Zyiad Awir
- Department of Rheumatology, Yas Healthcare, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Nehad Abu Taha
- Department of Rheumatology, Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Amel Ginawi
- Division of Rheumatology, Mediclinic City Hospital, Dubai, UAE
| | - Atheer Al Ansari
- Division of Rheumatology, Mediclinic Airport Road Hospital, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Hazem Rifaai
- Department of Rheumatology, Mediclinic Al Noor Hospital, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Zaid Alrawi
- Department of Rheumatology, Clemenceau Medical Center Hospital, Dubai, UAE
| | | | - Gamal Ibrahim
- Department of Rheumatology, Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib Hospital, Dubai, UAE
| | - Ahmed Abogamal
- Department of Rheumatology, Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib Hospital, Dubai, UAE
| | | | - Jamal Teir
- Department of Rheumatology, Sheikh Khalifa Medical City, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Tahir Khan
- Department of Rheumatology,Yas Clinic Khalifa City, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Maisam Musgrave
- Dubai, UAE Department of Rheumatology, Mediclinic City Hospital, Dubai, UAE
| | - Beena Hameed
- Department of Rheumatology, King’s College Hospital, Dubai, UAE
| | - Bhavna Khan
- Division of Rheumatology, King’s College Hospital, Dubai, UAE
| | - Nagwa Mosallam
- Department of Rheumatology, Burjeel Hospital, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Nahla Hussien
- Department of Rheumatology, Medeor Hospital, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Iman Hussein
- Department of Rheumatology,Yas Clinic Khalifa City, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | | | - Ahmed Ali
- Department of Rheumatology, Ibrahim Bin Hamad Obaidullah Hospital, Ras Al Khaima, UAE
| | - Suad Hannawi
- Department of Rheumatology, Ministry of Health and Prevention Ibrahim Bin Hamad Obaidullah, Dubai, UAE
| | - Mustafa Al Izzi
- Department of Rheumatology, Mediclinic Welcare Hospital, Dubai, UAE
| | - Humeira Badsha
- Department of Rheumatology, Dr. Humeira Badsha Medical Center, Dubai, UAE
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13
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Pope JE, Denton CP, Johnson SR, Fernandez-Codina A, Hudson M, Nevskaya T. State-of-the-art evidence in the treatment of systemic sclerosis. Nat Rev Rheumatol 2023; 19:212-226. [PMID: 36849541 PMCID: PMC9970138 DOI: 10.1038/s41584-023-00909-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/01/2023]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare autoimmune connective tissue disease with multi-organ involvement, fibrosis and vasculopathy. Treatment in SSc, including early diffuse cutaneous SSc (dcSSc) and the use of organ-specific therapies, has improved, as evident from randomized clinical trials. Treatments for early dcSSc include immunosuppressive agents such as mycophenolate mofetil, methotrexate, cyclophosphamide, rituximab and tocilizumab. Patients with rapidly progressive early dcSSc might be eligible for autologous haematopoietic stem cell transplantation, which can improve survival. Morbidity from interstitial lung disease and pulmonary arterial hypertension is improving with the use of proven therapies. Mycophenolate mofetil has surpassed cyclophosphamide as the initial treatment for SSc-interstitial lung disease. Nintedanib and possibly perfinidone can be considered in SSc pulmonary fibrosis. Pulmonary arterial hypertension is frequently treated with initial combination therapy (for example, with phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitors and endothelin receptor antagonists) and, if necessary, the addition of a prostacyclin analogue. Raynaud phenomenon and digital ulcers are treated with dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers (especially nifedipine), then phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitors or intravenous iloprost. Bosentan can reduce the development of new digital ulcers. Trial data for other manifestations are mostly lacking. Research is needed to develop targeted and highly effective treatments, best practices for organ-specific screening and early intervention, and sensitive outcome measurements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janet E Pope
- Division of Rheumatology, St Joseph's Health Care, London, ON, Canada.
- Department of Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada.
| | | | - Sindhu R Johnson
- Toronto Scleroderma Program, Toronto Western Hospital, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Andreu Fernandez-Codina
- Division of Rheumatology, St Joseph's Health Care, London, ON, Canada
- General Internal Medicine, Windsor Regional Hospital, Windsor, ON, Canada
- Critical Care, Emergency and Systemic Autoimmune Diseases, Hospital Clinic, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marie Hudson
- Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Division of Rheumatology and Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Tatiana Nevskaya
- Division of Rheumatology, St Joseph's Health Care, London, ON, Canada
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14
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Luo J, Li D, Jiang L, Shi C, Duan L. Identification of Tregs-Related Genes with Molecular Patterns in Patients with Systemic Sclerosis Related to ILD. Biomolecules 2023; 13:biom13030535. [PMID: 36979470 PMCID: PMC10046355 DOI: 10.3390/biom13030535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2022] [Revised: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Systemic Sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disease that is characterized by vasculopathy, digital ulcers, Raynaud’s phenomenon, renal failure, pulmonary arterial hypertension, and fibrosis. Regulatory T (Treg) cell subsets have recently been found to play crucial roles in SSc with interstitial lung disease (ILD) pathogenesis. This study investigates the molecular mechanism of Treg-related genes in SSc patients through bioinformatic analyses. Methods: The GSE181228 dataset of SSc was used in this study. CIBERSORT was used for assessing the category and proportions of immune cells in SSc. Random forest and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression analysis were used to select the hub Treg-related genes. Results: Through bioinformatic analyses, LIPN and CLEC4D were selected as hub Treg-regulated genes. The diagnostic power of the two genes separately for SSc was 0.824 and 0.826. LIPN was associated with the pathway of aminoacyl−tRNA biosynthesis, Primary immunodeficiency, DNA replication, etc. The expression of CLEC4D was associated with the pathway of Neutrophil extracellular trap formation, PPAR signaling pathway, Staphylococcus aureus infection, Systemic lupus erythematosus, TNF signaling pathway, and Toll−like receptor signaling pathway. Conclusion: Through bioinformatic analyses, we identified two Treg-related hub genes (LIPN, CLEC4D) that are mainly involved in the immune response and metabolism of Tregs in SSc with ILD. Moreover, our findings may provide the potential for studying the molecular mechanism of SSc with ILD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiao Luo
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Jiangxi Provincial People’s Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang 330000, China
| | - Dongdong Li
- Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330000, China
| | - Lili Jiang
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Jiangxi Provincial People’s Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang 330000, China
| | - Chunhua Shi
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Jiangxi Provincial People’s Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang 330000, China
- Correspondence: (C.S.); (L.D.); Tel.: +86-0791-86895639 (L.D.)
| | - Lihua Duan
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Jiangxi Provincial People’s Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang 330000, China
- Correspondence: (C.S.); (L.D.); Tel.: +86-0791-86895639 (L.D.)
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15
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Shivakumar DS, Kamath NS, Naik A. Silica associated systemic sclerosis: an occupational health hazard. BMJ Case Rep 2023; 16:e253952. [PMID: 36653045 PMCID: PMC9853126 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2022-253952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
A middle-aged male working in the sandblasting and stone-cutting industry was brought to the medicine department with skin tightness, dysphagia and discolouration of the skin for the last 1 year. On examination, he had skin thickening over the face and the extremities with restricted mouth opening. His hands were cold and showed peripheral cyanosis. Systemic examination was suggestive of diffuse cutaneous systemic sclerosis, further confirmed by the antinuclear antibody testing. Further, CT of the chest showed mediastinal lymphadenopathy with eggshell calcification and interstitial fibrosis consistent with silicosis and fibrotic non-specific interstitial pneumonitis. The patient was started on pulse monthly cyclophosphamide for six cycles, and steroids were given for 4 weeks and tapered. Tadalafil and amlodipine were given for his pulmonary artery hypertension and Raynaud's phenomenon, respectively. This case also highlights the importance of periodic screening of the workers exposed to silica dust to prevent silicosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Anand Naik
- General Medicine, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
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16
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Muntyanu A, Milan R, Rahme E, LaChance A, Ouchene L, Cormier M, Litvinov IV, Hudson M, Baron M, Netchiporouk E. Exposure to silica and systemic sclerosis: A retrospective cohort study based on the Canadian Scleroderma Research Group. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:984907. [PMID: 36250083 PMCID: PMC9556811 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.984907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
IntroductionSystemic sclerosis (SSc) is thought to be induced by an environmental trigger in genetically predisposed individuals. This study assessed the demographic and clinical characteristics and disease severity of silica exposed SSc patients.MethodsData was obtained from the Canadian Scleroderma Research Group (CSRG) cohort, containing 1,439 patients (2004–2019). Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed, to determine the phenotype and severity of silica-exposed SSc patients. Mortality was assessed using Cox Survival Regression and Kaplan-Meier analyses.ResultsAmong 1,439 patients (86.7% females), 95 patients reported exposure to silica. Those exposed were younger, of male sex and with more severe disease. Sex differences were observed where male patients exposed to silica were more likely to be Caucasian and smokers whereas female patients were younger at SSc diagnosis compared to unexposed. Multivariate regression, controlled for multiple confounders, showed that silica exposure was associated with a younger age at diagnosis and worse disease severity and mortality.ConclusionExposure to silica was reported in ∼7% of CSRG cohort and ∼20% of male patients and was associated with a worse prognosis in terms of age of diagnosis, organ involvement and mortality. Hence, screening for silica exposure among higher risk individuals may be beneficial and these patients may require closer monitoring for systemic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasiya Muntyanu
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Raymond Milan
- Division of Experimental Medicine, Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Centre for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Elham Rahme
- Centre for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Division of Clinical Epidemiology, Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Avery LaChance
- Department of Dermatology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Lydia Ouchene
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Maxime Cormier
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Medicine, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Ivan V. Litvinov
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Division of Dermatology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- *Correspondence: Ivan V. Litvinov,
| | - Marie Hudson
- Lady Davis Institute, Jewish General Hospital, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Murray Baron
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Elena Netchiporouk
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - the Canadian Scleroderma Research GroupBaronM.HudsonM.GygerG.PopeJ.LarcheM.KhalidiN.MasettoA.SuttonE.Rodriguez ReynaT. S.MaltezN.ThorneC.FortinP. R.IkicA.RobinsonD.JonesN.LeClercqS.DochertyP.SmithD.FritzlerM. J.Montreal, Quebec; Montreal, Quebec; Montreal, Quebec; London, Ontario; Hamilton, Ontario; Hamilton, Ontario; Sherbrooke, Quebec; Halifax, Nova Scotia; Mexico City, Mexico; Ottawa, Ontario; Newmarket, Ontario; Quebec, Quebec; Quebec, Quebec; Winnipeg, Manitoba; Edmonton, Alberta; Calgary, Alberta; Moncton, New Brunswick; Ottawa, Ontario; Department of Medicine, Cumming School of Medicine, Calgary, Alberta.
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17
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Paolini C, Agarbati S, Benfaremo D, Mozzicafreddo M, Svegliati S, Moroncini G. PDGF/PDGFR: A Possible Molecular Target in Scleroderma Fibrosis. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23073904. [PMID: 35409263 PMCID: PMC8999630 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23073904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a clinically heterogeneous disorder of the connective tissue characterized by vascular alterations, immune/inflammatory manifestations, and organ fibrosis. SSc pathogenesis is complex and still poorly understood. Therefore, effective therapies are lacking and remain nonspecific and limited to disease symptoms. In the last few years, many molecular and cellular mediators of SSc fibrosis have been described, providing new potential options for targeted therapies. In this review: (i) we focused on the PDGF/PDGFR pathway as key signaling molecules in the development of tissue fibrosis; (ii) we highlighted the possible role of stimulatory anti-PDGFRα autoantibodies in the pathogenesis of SSc; (iii) we reported the most promising PDGF/PDGFR targeting therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Paolini
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, 60126 Ancona, Italy; (C.P.); (S.A.); (D.B.); (M.M.); (S.S.)
| | - Silvia Agarbati
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, 60126 Ancona, Italy; (C.P.); (S.A.); (D.B.); (M.M.); (S.S.)
| | - Devis Benfaremo
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, 60126 Ancona, Italy; (C.P.); (S.A.); (D.B.); (M.M.); (S.S.)
- Department of Internal Medicine, Clinica Medica, Ospedali Riuniti “Umberto I-G.M. Lancisi-G. Salesi”, 60126 Ancona, Italy
| | - Matteo Mozzicafreddo
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, 60126 Ancona, Italy; (C.P.); (S.A.); (D.B.); (M.M.); (S.S.)
| | - Silvia Svegliati
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, 60126 Ancona, Italy; (C.P.); (S.A.); (D.B.); (M.M.); (S.S.)
| | - Gianluca Moroncini
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, 60126 Ancona, Italy; (C.P.); (S.A.); (D.B.); (M.M.); (S.S.)
- Department of Internal Medicine, Clinica Medica, Ospedali Riuniti “Umberto I-G.M. Lancisi-G. Salesi”, 60126 Ancona, Italy
- Correspondence:
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18
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A Narrative Review of Pathogenetic and Histopathologic Aspects, Epidemiology, Classification Systems, and Disease Outcome Measures in Systemic Sclerosis. Clin Rev Allergy Immunol 2022; 64:358-377. [PMID: 35254622 PMCID: PMC10167186 DOI: 10.1007/s12016-022-08929-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare systemic autoimmune disease, characterized by the presence of three main actors: vasculopathy, immune activation, and fibrosis. This pathologic process is then translated in a clinical picture with great variability among different patients in terms of type of organ involvement, disease severity and prognosis. This heterogeneity is a main feature of SSc, which, in addition to the presence of early phases of the disease characterized by mild symptoms, can explain the high difficulty in establishing classification criteria, and in defining patients' subsets and disease outcomes. The definition of disease outcomes is particularly relevant in the setting of clinical trials, where the aim is to provide reliable endpoints, able to measure the magnitude of the efficacy of a certain drug or intervention. For this reason, in the last years, increasing efforts have been done to design measures of disease activity, damage, severity, and response to treatment, often in the context of composite indexes. When considering disease outcomes, the experience of the patient represents a relevant and complementary aspect. The tools able to capture this experience, the patient-reported outcomes, have been increasingly used in the last years in clinical practice and in clinical trials, both as primary and secondary endpoints. This comprehensive narrative review on SSc will therefore cover pathogenetic and histopathologic aspects, epidemiology, classification systems, and disease outcome measures, in order to focus on issues that are relevant for clinical research and design of clinical trials.
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19
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Muntyanu A, Ouchene L, Zhou S, Hudson M, Rezaeian M, LaChance A, Litvinov IV, Baron M, Netchiporouk E. Geographical Distribution of Systemic Sclerosis in Canada: An Ecological Study based on the Canadian Scleroderma Research Group. J Am Acad Dermatol 2022; 87:1095-1097. [PMID: 35031410 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaad.2021.12.055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Revised: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Anastasiya Muntyanu
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Lydia Ouchene
- Faculty of Medicine, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Siriu Zhou
- Lady Davis Institute, Jewish General Hospital, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Marie Hudson
- Lady Davis Institute, Jewish General Hospital, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada; Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Mohsen Rezaeian
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Occupational Environment Research Center, Medical School, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran
| | - Avery LaChance
- Department of Dermatology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ivan V Litvinov
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Murray Baron
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Elena Netchiporouk
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada.
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20
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Lee KA, Kim J, Choi W, Kim HS, Seo GH. Pregnancy-associated risk factors and incidence of systemic sclerosis in primiparous women: A nationwide population-based cohort study. Mod Rheumatol 2022; 32:149-154. [PMID: 33775221 DOI: 10.1080/14397595.2021.1906513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 03/06/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To evaluate the pregnancy-related risk factors and incidence rate (IR) of systemic sclerosis (SSc) in primipara using the Health Insurance Review and Assessment database, covering all medical claims in South Korea. METHODS From the database, 2,260,952 primipara aged 18-49 years from 2008 to 2018 were identified. The patients were followed up after their index delivery until December 2019. A Cox proportional hazard analysis was performed to identify the association of pregnancy-related factors with SSc development. RESULTS The SSc IR was 0.62 cases per 100,000 patient-years. Primipara had a higher risk of developing SSc after 3 years postpartum than in the first 3 years of delivery (OR = 1.98, 95% CI: 1.36-2.78, p < .001). A multivariate analysis showed that older age (35-49 years) (HR = 2.14, 95% CI: 1.05-4.35, p = .037) and a Caesarean section (CS) (HR = 1.86, 95% CI: 1.10-3.15, p = .021) are risk factors for SSc. At 3 years postpartum, CS (HR = 2.97, 95% CI: 1.39-6.32, p = .005) and a female infant (HR = 2.28, 95% CI: 1.11-4.71, p = .026) were associated with SSc development. CONCLUSION Having a CS, late childbirth, and a female infant are the risk factors for SSc in primipara. This study establishes the IR of SSc in primipara.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyung-Ann Lee
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Soonchunhyang University Seoul Hospital, Soonchunhyang University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - JongSun Kim
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Soonchunhyang University Seoul Hospital, Soonchunhyang University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Wonho Choi
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Soonchunhyang University Seoul Hospital, Soonchunhyang University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Hyun-Sook Kim
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Soonchunhyang University Seoul Hospital, Soonchunhyang University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Gi Hyeon Seo
- Department of Healthcare Review and Assessment Committee, Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service, Wonju, South Korea
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21
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Martin Calderon L, Chaudhury M, Pope JE. Healthcare utilization and economic burden in systemic sclerosis: a systematic review. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2021; 61:3123-3131. [PMID: 34849627 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keab847] [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: 08/27/2021] [Revised: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Systemic Sclerosis (SSc) is characterized by vasculopathy, fibrosis of skin and internal organs, and autoimmunity with complications including interstitial lung disease, pulmonary hypertension, and digital ulcers with substantial morbidity and disability. Patients with SSc may require considerable healthcare resources with economic impact. The purpose of this systematic review was to provide a narrative synthesis of the economic impact and healthcare resource utilization associated with SSc. METHODS MEDLINE and EMBASE were searched from inception to January 20th, 2021. Studies were included if they provided information regarding the total, direct and indirect cost of SSc. The cost of SSc subtypes and associated complications was determined. Risk of bias assessments through the Joanna Briggs Institute cross-sectional and case series checklists, and the Newcastle-Ottawa Cohort and Case-Control study scales were performed. A narrative synthesis of included studies was planned. RESULTS 1777 publications were retrieved, of which 33 were included representing 20 cross-sectional, 10 cohort, and 3 case-control studies. Studies used various methods of calculating cost including prevalence-based cost-of-illness approach and health resource units cost analysis. Overall SSc total annual cost ranged from USD$14 959-$23 268 in USA, CAD$10 673-$18 453 in Canada, €4,607-€30 797 in Europe, and AUD$7,060-$11 607 in Oceania. Annual cost for SSc-associated interstitial lung disease and pulmonary hypertension was USD$31 285-$55 446 and $44 454-$63 320, respectively. CONCLUSION Cost-calculation methodology varied greatly between included studies. SSc represents significant patient and health resource economic burden. SSc-associated complications increase economic burden and are variable depending on geographical location, and access.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonardo Martin Calderon
- Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, Department of Medicine, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mitali Chaudhury
- Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Janet E Pope
- Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, Division of Rheumatology, St. Joseph's Health Care, London, Ontario, Canada
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22
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Hii A, Liu DS, Kholmurodova F, Irvine T, Bright T, Watson DI, Thompson SK. Partial Fundoplication is Effective Treatment for Female Patients with Gastroesophageal Reflux and Scleroderma: A Multicenter Comparative Cohort Study. World J Surg 2021; 46:147-153. [PMID: 34590163 DOI: 10.1007/s00268-021-06326-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with scleroderma often suffer from dysphagia and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Partial fundoplication is a validated anti-reflux procedure for GERD but may worsen dysphagia in scleroderma patients. Its utility in these patients is unknown. Here, we evaluate the efficacy and acceptability of partial fundoplication for the treatment of medically refractory GERD in patients with scleroderma. METHODS Analysis of a prospectively maintained database of patients who underwent fundoplication across 14 hospitals between 1991 and 2019. Perioperative outcomes, reintervention rates, heartburn, dysphagia, and patient satisfaction were assessed at 3 months, 1- and 3-years post-surgery. RESULTS A total of 17 patients with scleroderma were propensity score matched to 526 non-scleroderma controls. All underwent a partial fundoplication. Perioperative outcomes including complication rate, length of stay, and need for reoperation were similar between the two groups. Compared to baseline, both groups reported significantly improved heartburn at 3 months, 1- and 3-years following partial fundoplication. Surgery was equally effective at controlling heartburn across all follow-up timepoints in patients with or without scleroderma. Dysphagia to solids was more common in patients with scleroderma than controls at 3-months post-surgery, but was not significantly different to controls at 1- and 3-year follow-up. Satisfaction scores were high and comparable between both groups across all postoperative timepoints, with 100% of patients with scleroderma reporting that their initial choice to undergo surgery was correct. CONCLUSIONS Partial fundoplication controls reflux and is associated with a transient period of dysphagia to solids in patients with scleroderma. This approach is safe, effective and acceptable for patients with scleroderma and medically refractory GERD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Hii
- Oesophagogastric Surgery Unit, Flinders Medical Centre, Bedford Park, South Australia, 5042, Australia
| | - David S Liu
- Oesophagogastric Surgery Unit, Flinders Medical Centre, Bedford Park, South Australia, 5042, Australia. .,Department of Surgery, Austin Hospital, Heidelberg, VIC, 3084, Australia.
| | - Feruza Kholmurodova
- Discipline of Surgery, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Bedford Park, South Australia, 5042, Australia
| | - Tanya Irvine
- Discipline of Surgery, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Bedford Park, South Australia, 5042, Australia
| | - Tim Bright
- Oesophagogastric Surgery Unit, Flinders Medical Centre, Bedford Park, South Australia, 5042, Australia.,Discipline of Surgery, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Bedford Park, South Australia, 5042, Australia
| | - David I Watson
- Oesophagogastric Surgery Unit, Flinders Medical Centre, Bedford Park, South Australia, 5042, Australia.,Discipline of Surgery, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Bedford Park, South Australia, 5042, Australia
| | - Sarah K Thompson
- Oesophagogastric Surgery Unit, Flinders Medical Centre, Bedford Park, South Australia, 5042, Australia.,Discipline of Surgery, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Bedford Park, South Australia, 5042, Australia
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