Pathogenesis of haemophilic synovitis: clinical aspects

Clinical Evaluation of Balance in Children With Hemophilic Arthropathy

Purpose

Hemophilia is a hereditary coagulation disorder characterized by acute hemorrhages into the musculoskeletal system, leading eventually to arthropathy and disability. Chronic inflammation of the synovial membrane arises as a result of frequent joint hemorrhage. Proteolytic enzymes in the blood and cartilage cause deterioration after that, and joint space narrows. Chronic hemophilic arthropathy develops as a result of these unfavorable developments, which occur more quickly, especially in the target joints. Balance is a process that allows us to maintain our orientation in three-dimensional space while also regulating our body posture to avoid falling. After the central nervous system evaluates deep stimuli from sensory, visual, and auditory receptors, movement of the corresponding muscle groups is delivered.

Methods

The goal of this study was to investigate how impairment to deep sensory receptors (proprioception) in the arthropathic joint structure affected hemophiliacs' balance. The study comprised 34 patients with hemophilic arthropathy, and 34 age and weight matched healthy volunteers.

Results

When balance tests of patients with hemophilic arthropathy were compared to healthy controls, hemophiliacs had a greater risk of falling. As the degree of arthropathy increased, so did the risk of falling and balance test values in individuals with hemophilic arthropathy.

Conclusions

Treatment and coagulation factor prophylaxis to prevent the onset of arthropathy will improve patients' quality of life and reduce morbidity associated with frequent falls and bleeding.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12288-022-01526-0.

Most subjectively affected joints in patients with haemophilia - what has changed after 20 years in Germany?

BACKGROUND

In patients with haemophilia (PwH), most frequently affected joints are the ankle, knee and elbow. Due to improved factor therapy in the last decades, these previous findings have to be verified in Germany.

AIM

The aim of this study is to detect the most affected joint, evaluate the significance of the source of pain and determine the point prevalence of back pain in Germany today.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In a retrospective study, data of n = 300 patients with severe moderate and mild haemophilia were evaluated regarding the most affected joint, the most common source of pain, and the point prevalence of back pain. An anamnesis questionnaire and the German Pain Questionnaire were used for this assessment.

RESULTS

The most affected joint in German PwH is still the ankle (41%), followed by the knee (27%) and the elbow (11%). The most common source of pain is also the ankle joint (32%). Back pain was also identified as one of the most common sources of pain, which is comparable to the elbow (elbow:15%; back:13%). The point prevalence in PwH for back pain was significantly higher compared to the general German population (P = .031).

CONCLUSION

Our data showed that the ankle is still the most affected joint and the most common source of pain in Germany. These results also showed the relevance of back pain as a pain source. The evaluations also demonstrated the high point prevalence of back pain in PwH. Future therapies should also focus on the spine because joint changes affect posture.

Low Bone Mineral Density in Hemophiliacs

Objective

To review the current knowledge on bone health in patients with hemophilia A and the underlying pathogenetic mechanisms.

Data Sources

Original research articles, meta-analyses, and scientific reviews.

Data Synthesis

Already in childhood, patients with hemophilia A are prone to low bone mineral density, leading to osteopenia and/or osteoporosis. Initially associated with the life style of hemophilia, today we are faced with accumulating evidence that coagulation factor VIII is involved directly or indirectly in bone physiology.

Conclusion

Understanding the role of factor VIII and the mechanisms of decreased bone mineral density in hemophilia A is critically important, especially as non-factor replacement therapies are available, and treatment decisions potentially impact bone health.

Changes of static and dynamic spine alignment in patients with severe haemophilia

INTRODUCTION

Haemophilic arthropathy results in a restricted range of motion and pain that often affects gait. The effect of these gait changes on spinal posture has not been studied.

AIM

To evaluate whether the altered joint situation in patients with haemophilia (PwH) leads to compensatory mechanisms evident in the trunk and spine, considering static and dynamic conditions.

METHODS

PwH and healthy controls (20-65 years) were examined using rasterstereography in a controlled cohort study. Analysis was performed in static and dynamic conditions in regard to gait phases. Joint status was determined using the Haemophilia Joint Health Score (HJHS).

RESULTS

Static measurements showed no group differences in PwH (n = 40) compared to healthy controls (n = 40) except pelvic torsion (median [25%-quartile;75%-quartile]: -1.9[-3.2;.9]° vs. .5[-1.1;1.9]°; P = .007). In contrast, under dynamic conditions PwH showed significantly higher trunk inclination and lower apex lumbar lordosis in all gait phases. Additionally, pelvic torsion was increased in mid stance and terminal swing. Considering joint status, PwH had a higher global HJHS (23.5[13.0;30.0] vs. 3.0[1.0;5.0]; P<.001). A significant moderate correlation was shown between the HJHS mobility score and spine parameters (r = .228-.588; P<.05).

CONCLUSION

Degenerative joint changes in PwH lead to altered spine posture during gait. A reason could be the reduced mobility in the affected joint. Changes in spinal and pelvic posture lead to higher structural burdens; therefore, clinicians should focus on posture of spinal column during gait in daily treatment.

Radiosynoviorthesis in the treatment of posttraumatic joint bleedings of hemophilic patients (concerning hip, knee and ankle joints)-Hungarian experience

INTRODUCTION

The surgical, arthroscopic synovectomy and radiosynovectomy (radiosynoviorthesis, RSO) all have great practical importance, since they can eliminate the posttraumatic joint bleedings and prevent the further joint destructions in hemophilic patients. The aim of this study was to examine the role of RSO in the prevention of joint bleedings in hemophilic patients.

METHODS

54 out of 684 RSO patients were hemophiliacs. Mean age of the patients was 32 years (range 14-51), therefore this is a relatively young patients' cohort. Radiosynovectomy was performed in 37 patients with hemophilia A and in 17 patients suffering from hemophilia B. Since hemophilia is a sex-linked (x-linked) recessive disorder, all of the patients were male. There was no acquired hemophiliac among the treated patients.

RESULTS

The RSO resulted in a 95% decline in bleedings per year and eliminated the incidence of further bleedings in 55% of the treated joints.

CONCLUSION

Our findings support the view that radiosynoviorthesis can be considered as the first choice treatment for posttraumatic joint bleedings of hemophilic patients.

Hematological Diseases and Osteoporosis

Secondary osteoporosis is a common clinical problem faced by bone specialists, with a higher frequency in men than in women. One of several causes of secondary osteoporosis is hematological disease. There are numerous hematological diseases that can have a deleterious impact on bone health. In the literature, there is an abundance of evidence of bone involvement in patients affected by multiple myeloma, systemic mastocytosis, thalassemia, and hemophilia; some skeletal disorders are also reported in sickle cell disease. Recently, monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance appears to increase fracture risk, predominantly in male subjects. The pathogenetic mechanisms responsible for these bone loss effects have not yet been completely clarified. Many soluble factors, in particular cytokines that regulate bone metabolism, appear to play an important role. An integrated approach to these hematological diseases, with the help of a bone specialist, could reduce the bone fracture rate and improve the quality of life of these patients.

Clinical and Radiological Evaluation After Chemical Synovectomy With Rifampicin in Hemophilic Arthropathy: Korean Experience With a 2-Week Interval Protocol

Objective

To assess the clinical outcome of chemical synovectomy with rifampicin in hemophilic arthropathy by using the World Federation of Hemophilia (WFH) scoring system and plain radiograph.

Methods

We performed rifampicin synovectomy (RS) on 30 joints of 28 hemophilic patients diagnosed as hemophilic arthropathy stage I–III (based on Fernandez-Palazzi clinical classification). Clinical status (bleeding frequency, pain, joint physical status) and radiological staging were evaluated as parts of the WFH scoring system before and 1 year after RS. The patients were divided into two groups by the Arnold-Hilgartner scale of the initial X-ray as stage 3 or less for the low-stage group (n=17) and over 3 for the high-stage group (n=13).

Results

Total WFH joint physical scores were reduced after injection, and the number of bleeding episodes and pain showed especially significant improvement. For other subscores of the WFH joint physical score, only swelling, range of motion, and crepitus showed statistically significant improvement. According to the severity of the radiologic finding, the WFH joint physical score of both the low-stage and high-stage groups showed significant improvement. In the radiological aspect, the low-stage group, without joint space narrowing at the initial plain radiograph, showed no further aggravation after injection. However, in the high-stage group, radiology found aggravation regardless of the procedure.

Conclusion

It is suggested that chemical synovectomy with rifampicin may prevent hemarthrosis and improve clinical symptoms. Especially in the early stage of arthropathy without joint-space narrowing, it seems to have an additional benefit that delays radiological aggravation and preserves joint status.

Effects of moderate-intensity physical exercise on pharmacokinetics of factor VIII and von Willebrand factor in young adults with severe haemophilia A: a pilot study

INTRODUCTION

In persons with severe haemophilia A (pwshA), infused factor VIII (FVIII) half-life can vary according to such determinants as blood group, von Willebrand factor (VWF) level or age; however, FVIII pharmacokinetics (PK) has not been well studied in pwshA during exercise.

AIM

To investigate FVIII PK in pwshA performing moderate-intensity aerobic exercise.

METHODS

Twelve young-adult pwshA with the intron-22 inversion mutation, on relatively low-dose FVIII prophylaxis regimens, and relatively good musculoskeletal status were recruited. Abbreviated PK of FVIII activity and von Willebrand factor antigen (VWF:Ag) level were compared - during rest, and with 60-min exercise (2 × 15 min each of moderate-intensity stationary cycling and treadmill walking). During rest and exercise visits, a baseline blood specimen was drawn, routine prophylaxis FVIII infused; then six blood specimens were taken over the following 24 h.

RESULTS

For all subjects, mean half-life of infused FVIII did not change significantly with exercise vs. at rest (577 ± 190 vs. 614 ± 163 min; P = 0.4131). VWF:Ag rose transiently by 40-50% for 6-8 h with exercise (P < 0.01), particularly in non-O blood group subjects. No musculoskeletal bleeds occurred during the study.

CONCLUSION

Four × 15 min of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise increased VWF:Ag levels for 6-8 h, and showed no evidence of accelerated FVIII clearance or of musculoskeletal bleeding in these young-adult pwshA with relatively good musculoskeletal status, on relatively low-dose FVIII prophylaxis regimens. However, O blood group impact would merit larger studies, with longer durations of similar or more vigorous exercise intensities.

Clinical, instrumental, serological and histological findings suggest that hemophilia B may be less severe than hemophilia A

Recent evidence suggests that patients with severe hemophilia B may have a less severe disease compared to severe hemophilia A. To investigate clinical, radiological, laboratory and histological differences in the arthropathy of severe hemophilia A and hemophilia B, 70 patients with hemophilia A and 35 with hemophilia B with at least one joint bleeding were consecutively enrolled. Joint bleedings (<10, 10-50, >50), regimen of treatment (prophylaxis/on demand), World Federation of Hemophilia, Pettersson and ultrasound scores, serum soluble RANK ligand and osteoprotegerin were assessed in all patients. RANK, RANK ligand and osteoprotegerin expression was evaluated in synovial tissue from 18 hemophilia A and 4 hemophilia B patients. The percentage of patients with either 10-50 or more than 50 hemarthrosis was greater in hemophilia A than in hemophilia B (P<0.001 and P=0.03, respectively), while that with less than 10 hemarthrosis was higher in hemophilia B (P<0.0001). World Federation of Hemophilia (36.6 vs. 20.2; P<0.0001) and ultrasound (10.9 vs. 4.3; P<0.0001) score mean values were significantly higher in hemophilia A patients. Serum osteoprotegerin and soluble RANK ligand were decreased in hemophilia A versus hemophilia B (P<0.0001 and P=0.006, respectively). Osteoprotegerin expression was markedly reduced in synovial tissue from hemophilia A patients. In conclusion, the reduced number of hemarthrosis, the lower World Federation of Hemophilia and ultrasound scores, and higher osteoprotegerin expression in serum and synovial tissue in hemophilia B suggest that hemophilia B is a less severe disease than hemophilia A. Osteoprotegerin reduction seems to play a pivotal role in the progression of arthropathy in hemophilia A.

The long-term effects of radioactive phosphorous synoviorthesis on hemophilic arthropathy

BACKGROUND

Radioactive synoviorthesis was carried out by an injection of radioactive materials into the joint that has been known as a successful alternative treatment to invasive surgical synovectomy. This study was designed to evaluate short-term and long-term results and complications of radioactive synovectomy of hemophilic arthropathy using radioactive phosphorus.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study was conducted on 40 patients with hemophilic arthropathy. After obtaining clotting factors, the intra-articular injections of radioactive phosphorus were done. Thirteen patients were evaluated during 36 months (short-term follow-up) and 27 patients were followed up for more than 36 months (long-term follow-up). Patients were evaluated for hemarthrosis, factor consumption per month, joint range of motion (ROM) and clinical and radiological involvement grade.

RESULTS

The patients mean age was 22.9 ± 6.6 and there were 38 men and 2 women. Consumption of clotting factors was significantly reduced in the short-term follow-up of patients (p < 0.05), but there was no significant difference in the long-term follow-up (p > 0.05). ROM decreased significantly in the long-term follow-up (p < 0.05). Radiologic evaluation showed significantly increased involvement in their joints (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Using radioactive synoviorthesis led in decreased consumption of clotting factors and the hemarthrosis incidence in short term but it did not have significant impact on clinical situation (ROM) and radiological findings of hemophilic patients in long-term follow-up.

Joint Aspiration for Acute Hemarthrosis in Children Receiving Factor VIII Prophylaxis for Severe Hemophilia: 11-year Safety Data

Objective.

The aims of this study were (1) to document the prevalence of acute hemarthrosis in a cohort of 46 boys with severe hemophilia A receiving full primary prophylaxis in Western Australia (WA), and (2) to investigate the safety of the WA protocol over 11 years for management of hemarthrosis.

Methods.

Case review. The WA protocol involves a pediatric rheumatologist washing out all acute hemarthrosis of large joints promptly and then instilling intraarticular (IA) corticosteroids.

Results.

This study showed that joint bleeds occurred in 22 boys of 46 (47.8%). In over 11 years, 84 washouts were performed on 32 joints in 22 boys. No adverse events occurred. Fifteen of 22 boys had normal joints with a Hemophilic Joint Health Score = 0. Fifteen boys who had had all hemarthrosis washed out had clinically normal joints (100%). Seven boys had sustained joint damage prior to full instigation of the protocol, each having had documented hemarthrosis without aspiration. Parents needed to understand that joint bleeds constituted an emergency.

Conclusion.

Of our cohort, 47.8% of patients with severe hemophilia receiving prophylaxis developed joint bleeding. The WA protocol is safe. There is evidence suggesting joint outcomes of hemophilic patients having hemarthrosis despite factor VIII prophylaxis may be much improved if there is access to a center using a procedure similar to the WA protocol.

Bone mineral density in men and children with haemophilia A and B: a systematic review and meta-analysis

SUMMARY

Although haemophilia is not considered among the classic causes of secondary osteoporosis, the present meta-analysis provides strong evidence that men with haemophilia have a significant reduction in both lumbar spine and femoral bone mineral density, which appears to begin in childhood.

INTRODUCTION

Haemophilia is not considered among the classic causes of secondary osteoporosis. The aim of this study was to systematically review the literature for case-control trials that have studied bone mass in males with haemophilia and to meta-analyze the best evidence available.

METHODS

Electronic databases MEDLINE, EMBASE and CENTRAL were systematically searched for case-control trials that have studied bone mass in men or boys with haemophilia. Standardized mean difference (SMD) for bone mineral density (BMD) in the lumbar spine was the main study outcome and SMD in femoral neck and total hip BMD the secondary ones. Patient and control characteristics, such as age, body mass index (BMI), level of physical activity and blood-borne infections were recorded as possible predictors of the main outcome.

RESULTS

Thirteen studies were included in the systematic review and ten in the main outcome meta-analysis. Men with haemophilia demonstrated reduced lumbar spine [random effects SMD [95 % confidence interval (CI)] = -0.56 (-0.84, -0.28), between-study heterogeneity (I (2)) = 51 %] and femoral neck BMD [random effects SMD (95 % CI) = -0.82 (-1.21, -0.44), I (2) = 63 %] compared with controls, which indicated a large and clinically significant association. Similar results were obtained for children [random effects SMD (95 % CI) = -0.92 (-1.77, -0.07), I (2) = 92 %]. No evidence of publication bias was detected. There was no evidence that age, BMI, level of physical activity or presence of blood-borne infections predicted lumbar spine BMD.

CONCLUSIONS

This meta-analysis shows that men with haemophilia present a significant reduction in both lumbar spine and hip BMD, which appears to begin in childhood.

Radiosynovectomy: review of the literature and report from two haemophilia treatment centers

Haemophilic arthropathy occurs due to recurrent bleeding into joints leading to swelling, inflammation, destruction of cartilage and bone, and development of arthritis. Although prophylactic replacement therapy assists in preventing arthropathy, it is not always adequate or affordable. Radiosynovectomy is a minimally invasive intervention for treatment of synovitis in haemophilic joints. The procedure utilises locally injected radioisotopes (Y, P, Rh) to ablate abnormal synovium with the goal of decreasing bleeding, slowing progression of cartilage and bone damage and preventing arthropathy. The objective of this review is to summarize the radiosynovectomy literature and to present patient outcomes associated with radiosynovectomy over the past 17 years from two haemophilia treatment centers (HTCs), one in the United States and one in Spain. Articles from these two centers support the current literature. A retrospective medical records review was performed by the two reporting HTCs on patients who underwent radiosynovectomy prior to 2009. Data review included: site of procedure, isotope utilized, bleeding frequency, and procedure complications. Radiosynovectomy is a cost-effective, minimally invasive, well tolerated procedure. As the paradigm for care in haemophilia shifts towards prevention of joint disease, the number of target joints with synovitis will likely decrease, except in patients who develop inhibitors. We propose early consideration of radiosynovectomy for patients with haemophilic synovitis prior to appearance of articular cartilage damage.

The clinical utility of bone turnover markers in the evaluation of bone disease in patients with haemophilia A and B

Haemophilia A and B have been associated with increased prevalence of low bone mineral density (BMD). However, the utility of bone turnover markers (BTM) remains unknown. The aim of this study was to evaluate bone metabolism in men with haemophilia and to investigate associations between BTM and bone disease. Serum N- (NTX-I), C-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen (CTX-I) and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase band-5b (TRAP-5b), as bone resorption markers, and osteocalcin (OC) and bone-specific alkaline phosphatase (b-ALP), as bone formation markers, were assessed. Seventy men with haemophilia A (n = 59) or B (n = 11) were studied. Patients with low BMD had significantly higher b-ALP concentrations compared with those with normal BMD (12.8 ± 1.60 vs. 9.72 ± 0.58 μg/L, P = 0.009), without any differences in the other BTM. NTX-I and CTX-I concentrations were negatively associated with oestradiol levels and hip BMD and positively with human immunodeficiency virus infection, number of affected joints and arthropathy scores. B-ALP and OC concentrations were negatively associated with hip BMD, severity of haemophilia and fracture history, and positively with the number of affected joints and testosterone concentrations. After multivariate analysis, NTX-I levels remained negatively associated with oestradiol levels, whereas b-ALP concentrations negatively correlated with the level of physical activity and positively with the number of affected joints. Increased bone metabolism exists in men with haemophilia and low BMD. Increased b-ALP levels may identify patients at high risk for fracture. Increased number of target joints, low physical activity and low oestradiol concentrations are independently associated with increased bone metabolism.

The role of physical medicine and rehabilitation in haemophiliac patients

Physical medicine and rehabilitation aim to evaluate, diagnose and treat disability in haemophiliac patients, while preventing injury or deterioration. They also aim to maintain the greatest degree of functional capacity and independence in patients with haemophilia, or to return them to that state. Rehabilitation, together with clotting factor replacement therapy, has revolutionized the management of these patients in developed countries and reduced their morbidity/mortality rates. A knowledge of the musculoskeletal signs and symptoms of haemophilia is essential for providing a treatment which is suitable and customized. Physical medicine and rehabilitation techniques, which are based on physical means, are intended to reduce the impact which these injuries and their consequences or sequelae can have on the quality of life of patients with haemophilia. Under ideal haemostatic control conditions (primary prophylaxis), people with haemophilia could achieve good physical condition which will allow them to enjoy both physical activity and a daily life without limitations. Currently, children undergoing primary prophylaxis are quite close to this ideal situation. For these physical activities to be carried out, the safest possible situations must be sought.

Radioactive synovectomy with (90) yttrium and (153) samarium hydroxyapatite in haemophilic joints: preliminary study on radiation safety

Most countries still do not achieve 1 IU of factor VIII/capita sufficient for survival. Although primary prophylaxis prevents synovitis, is not universally used. Chronic synovitis is treated with arthroscopy at expense of considerable amount of coagulation factors, and specialized surgeons. Radioactive synovectomy (RS) is a minimally invasive and cost effective alternative to arthroscopy, often considered first the option for persistent synovitis. Even without established causation with cancer, RS is avoided by some, due to this concern. We aim contributing to the understanding of RS safety regarding malignancy, presenting a large number of treated patients, and a single case of cancer. Three centres in Brazil applied RS with (90) Yttrium Citrate, (90) Yttrium hydroxyapatite or (153) Samarium hydroxyapatite in haemophilic joints and performed a survey addressing cancer in these patients. Four hundred and eighty eight patients (ages 3-51) received 1-3 RS (total 842) and follow-up was 6 months to 9 years. One patient aged 14 years presented Ewing sarcoma, 11 months after RS. The tumour was treated successfully with surgery and chemotherapy. Causality of cancer by RS is improbable in this case. Accordingly, latency here is far below minimum 5-10 years for radio-induction of solid tumours. Moreover, ES is not a typically radio-induced tumour, even at high doses. In agreement with others, though recognizing limitations, this study suggests RS is safe regarding cancer induction. Synovitis is a known burden for patients. The decision of making reasonable usage of RS should be outweighed with the risks of leaving synovitis untreated.

The effect of secondary prophylaxis versus episodic treatment on the range of motion of target joints in patients with haemophilia

This study prospectively compared the effect of secondary prophylaxis to episodic treatment on target joint (TJ) range of motion (ROM), number of joint haemorrhages and new TJ development in patients with moderate or severe haemophilia. Two-hundred and eighty-six males, 17% in prophylaxis, 83% in episodic treatment group, participating in the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Universal Data Collection project, fulfilled inclusion criteria: age >2 years at enrollment, free of TJs at enrollment, developed at least one TJ after enrollment, and received either prophylaxis or episodic treatment continuously for two follow-up visits after TJ development. The outcomes of interest - percentage change in TJ ROM, number of joint haemorrhages and new TJ development, were modelled using multivariate linear, Poisson and logistic regression techniques respectively. Individuals who received secondary prophylaxis in comparison to episodic treatment were younger at TJ development (P < 0.01); there was no difference in the decrease in TJ ROM between the two groups (P = 0.9). Factors significantly associated with a higher rate of haemarthroses included episodic treatment, severe haemophilia, age >5 years at TJ development, obesity and inhibitor negative status. Secondary prophylaxis significantly decreased haemarthroses but was not associated with a significant improvement in TJ ROM or with new TJ development.

Management of joint bleeding in hemophilia

Hemarthrosis, the hallmark of severe hemophilia, is the major cause of serious bleeding events, disability and reduced quality of life in patients with factor VIII or factor IX deficiency. Joint bleeding is one of the greatest challenges confronting individuals treating hemophilia, and its economic impact is enormous. This article reviews the current management of hemophilic joint bleeding and discusses the potential impact of novel therapies.

RANK-RANKL-OPG in Hemophilic Arthropathy: From Clinical and Imaging Diagnosis to Histopathology

Objective.

Hemarthrosis triggers hemophilic arthropathy, involving the target joints. The histopathogenesis of blood-induced joint damage remains unclear. The triad of receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB (RANK), RANK ligand (RANKL), and osteoprotegerin (OPG; RANK-RANKL-OPG) controls bone turnover. Our aim was to evaluate RANK-RANKL-OPG expression in the synovium of hemophilic patients with severe arthropathy.

Methods.

Synovial biopsies were obtained from 18 patients with hemophilic arthropathy and 16 with osteoarthritis (OA) who were undergoing total knee replacement and synovectomy. The severity of hemophilic arthropathy was evaluated according to ultrasonography score, the World Federation of Hemophilia (WFH) orthopedic joint scale, and the radiographic Pettersson score. RANK-RANKL-OPG expression was examined by immunohistochemistry and Western blotting. Serum levels of soluble RANKL (sRANKL) and OPG from an extended group of 67 patients with hemophilic arthropathy and 30 healthy controls were measured by ELISA.

Results.

The mean ultrasonography, WFH orthopedic joint scale, and Pettersson scores in patients with hemophilic arthropathy indicated severe arthropathy. A decreased expression of OPG was found in hemophilic arthropathy synovium compared with patients with OA. RANK and RANKL immunopositivity was strong in the lining and sublining layers in hemophilic arthropathy synovial tissue. Western blotting confirmed the immunohistological findings. Serum levels of sRANKL and OPG in patients with hemophilia were lower than in healthy controls.

Conclusion.

In hemophilic arthropathy, the synovium highly expressed RANK and RANKL, whereas OPG immunopositivity decreased, suggesting an osteoclastic activation. Low tissue expression of OPG paralleled the serum levels of this protein and the severity of hemophilic arthropathy assessed by ultrasonography, Pettersson, and WFH orthopedic joint scale scores.

Treatment trends for haemophilia A and haemophilia B in the United States: results from the 2010 practice patterns survey

Frequent evaluation of haemophilia treatment is necessary to improve patient care. The 2010 Practice Patterns Survey (PPS) investigated current trends in haemophilia treatment in the United States, as reported by nurses. The aim was to document practice patterns for haemophilia A and haemophilia B Survey questionnaires were sent to nurses at haemophilia treatment centres (HTCs) across the United States. Seventy-one of 126 HTCs (56%) responded to the survey. Factor dosage across treatment modalities ranged from 20 to 50 IU kg(-1) for severe haemophilia A. Dosage for severe haemophilia B was more variable (<40 to >100 IU kg(-1)). On-demand dosing regimens were inconsistent for haemophilia A and more so for haemophilia B. Rates of adherence to prescribed treatment were similar for both haemophilia types (∼80%). The main barrier to adherence was identified as inconvenience. More bleeding episodes occurred in adults (16.6 bleeding episodes per year) with severe haemophilia A than in younger patients (11.3 bleeding episodes per year) before switching patients to prophylaxis. For both haemophilia types, most patients who switched from prophylaxis to on-demand treatment were aged 13-24 years; these patients also had the lowest adherence (60-71%). More paediatric patients with severe haemophilia A and inhibitors (53%) received prophylactic bypassing therapy than their haemophilia B counterparts (38%). Adults with severe haemophilia A faced challenges in relation to co-morbidities and long-term care. This PPS provides insights into previously unexplored aspects of haemophilia care that will serve to increase awareness and promote discussion of current issues affecting haemophilia patient care.

Reduced bone mineral density in patients with haemophilia A and B in Northern Greece

Haemophilia A and B has been associated with increased prevalence of low bone mass (67-86%). The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of bone disease in haemophiliacs and its association with potential risk factors. Adult patients with haemophilia A and B followed-up in the Haemophilia Centre of Northern Greece were included. Bone mineral density (BMD) was measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) in lumbar spine (LS), femoral neck (FN), total hip (TH) and great trochanter (GT). One-hundred four male patients (aged 45.8 ± 15.1 years) and 50 controls (aged 44.9 ± 12.8 years) were screened. Low BMD was diagnosed in 28 patients (26.9%) and 10 controls (20%) (p=0.0001). Patients had lower BMD in TH (p=0.007), FN (p=0.029) and GT (p=0.008) than controls, without differences in LS. BMD was positively associated with the severity of haemophilia, history of herpes virus C or human immunodeficiency virus and level of physical activity, and negatively with the level of arthropathy. In multiple-regression analysis, only the level of physical activity and 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] significantly predicted BMD. Half of the patients had vitamin D deficiency. In conclusion, our study showed increased prevalence of low BMD in haemophiliacs. The levels of physical activity and 25(OH)D independently predicted low BMD.

Physical functioning in boys with hemophilia in the U.S

BACKGROUND

Hemophilia is the most common inherited severe bleeding disorder. Although the most frequent complication of repeated hemorrhages is a crippling joint disease that begins in childhood, the extent of resultant joint functional impairment varies widely within the hemophilia population.

PURPOSE

The goal of this exploratory analysis was to examine a national database that collects information on boys with hemophilia, an X-linked severe congenital bleeding disorder, to determine characteristics associated with increased risk of developing limitations in physical functioning as an outcome of recurrent hemorrhages.

METHODS

A standard set of data is collected annually at ∼130 U.S. comprehensive hemophilia treatment centers (HTCs) in a voluntary surveillance program called the Universal Data Collection (UDC) program. Fifteen potential predictors for poor outcomes of physical functioning related to bleeding were examined for boys (aged ≤ 18 years) from 1998 to 2008. Bivariate and multivariate analyses of these predictors performed in 2009 examined associations with self-reported limitation of activities, absenteeism from work or school, and reliance on assistive devices for ambulation and mobility.

RESULTS

Multiple characteristics of underlying hemophilia severity and disease chronicity (in particular, increasing age, presence of joint bleeding, and inhibitor antibodies) were independently associated with increased risk of limitations of physical function. Nonwhite race/ethnicity was associated with each of the poorer functional outcomes in bivariate analyses. After controlling for the potential confounding effects of the multiple population characteristics on race, only African-American race was independently associated with activity restrictions, and African-American and Asian/Pacific Island ethnicity with absenteeism. With the exception of indicators of underlying disease severity, only obesity and medical insurance coverage with Medicaid rather than commercial insurance were independently associated with multiple poor outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

Interventions focused on eliminating inhibitors, improving outcomes for African-American children with hemophilia, and maintaining healthy body weight are warranted. In addition, strategies are needed to assure adequate insurance coverage for all people with hemophilia to eliminate economic barriers to optimal functional outcomes.

⁹⁰Yttrium-hydroxyapatite: a new therapeutic option for radioactive synovectomy in haemophilic synovitis

Recurrent haemarthroses often lead to chronic synovitis in patients with haemophilia and von Willebrand disease. Radioactive synovectomy with yttrium-90 (⁹⁰Y) citrate is frequently used to treat this complication, usually with good results. Since 2006, the Nuclear Energy Research Institute (IPEN, Sao Paulo, Brazil) has produced hydroxyapatite particles labelled with ⁹⁰Y for radioactive synovectomy. The aim of this study was to compare the results achieved by both forms of ⁹⁰Y in the treatment of haemophilic synovitis. We included 221 joints from 136 patients (age range: 6-20 years), treated by one of the two radiopharmaceuticals, at the Hemocenter of Mato Grosso, Brazil. The outcomes analysed were the annual frequency of haemarthrosis, articular pain and joint range of motion before and 1 year after RS. Similar results were achieved regardless of whether ⁹⁰Y hydroxyapatite or ⁹⁰Y citrate was used, and results were independent of the joint type, age, gender, radiologic stage and presence of inhibitors. ⁹⁰Y hydroxyapatite appears to be equivalent to the reference product ⁹⁰Y citrate in the treatment of chronic synovitis associated with bleeding disorders.

Wound healing in haemophilia--breaking the vicious cycle

Our group has been studying how haemostasis interacts with repair processes and also how to optimize treatment of bleeding disorders in a mouse model of haemophilia B. We have found that cutaneous wounds heal more slowly in haemophilic mice than in wild-type mice, and also exhibit histological abnormalities, even after closure of the skin defect. The haemophilic wounds showed reduced influx of inflammatory cells and increased angiogenesis. Even after surface closure, the haemophilic animals experienced repeated episodes of re-bleeding and progressive accumulation of iron in the wound bed and deeper tissues. A dose of replacement or bypassing therapy sufficient to establish initial haemostasis did not normalize wound healing. In fact, daily dosing for 7 days was required to normalize wound closure. Thus, normal healing requires adequate haemostatic function for an extended period of time. We have hypothesized that this is because angiogenesis during healing predisposes to bleeding, especially in the setting where haemostasis is impaired. Thus, normalizing haemostasis, until the process of angiogenesis has resolved, may be required to prevent re-bleeding and additional tissue damage.

Bleeding disorders and reduced bone density

In recent decays, quality of life and life expectancy of individuals with severe haemophilia A and B have been improved by better quality in treatment and more availability of blood coagulation products. Recently, new concerns have emerged in current groups such as auto-antibody inhibitors to coagulation factors and reduced bone density (RBD). RBD in bleeding disorders is becoming an escalating burden worldwide due to an increased in life expectancy and also in the ageing population with bleeding disorders. Here, we review published papers on bone mineral density of individuals with haemophilia A & B, a rare bleeding disorder entitled combined factor V and VIII deficiency and other rare bleeding disorders. It seems in individuals with bleeding disorders preventive measures including early detection, treatment and adequate physical activity, encouragement to be active in sports and finally anti-osteoporotic therapy must be done.

Physiopathology of haemophilic arthropathy

Haemophilic arthropathy, which shares some clinical and biological injury characteristics with rheumatoid arthritis, is characterized by two main features: chronic proliferative synovitis and cartilage destruction. It is the consequence of repeated extravasation of blood into joint cavities, but its exact pathogenesis, particularly with regard to early changes in the joint, is still incompletely understood. This review presents recent findings obtained in experiments performed in vitro and using animal models, which have improved our knowledge of the pathogenesis of haemophilic arthropathy. These experimental studies show that haemophilic arthropathy is a multifactorial event in which the deposit of iron in the joints appears to exert a central role. First, iron may promote the apoptosis of chondrocytes by catalysing the formation of oxygen metabolites; this may explain the fact that intra-articular blood exerts a directly harmful effect on cartilage before, and independent of synovial changes. Secondly, iron may also act on the synovial membrane by favouring its proliferation through the induction of proto-oncogenes involved in cellular proliferation and stimulation of inflammatory cytokines as well as abrogation of apoptosis. These two processes, one degenerative and cartilage-mediated, the other inflammatory and synovium-mediated could occur in parallel or sequentially. Overall, it may be expected that these experimental results will yield new therapeutic strategies capable of effectively preventing the occurrence of this still serious and common complication in patients with severe haemophilia.