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Cowley S, Harkins P, Kirby C, Conway R, Kane DJ. Should all patients with polymyalgia rheumatica have a vascular ultrasound assessment? Ann Rheum Dis 2024; 83:961-964. [PMID: 38553044 DOI: 10.1136/ard-2024-225650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/17/2024]
Abstract
There is a growing appreciation that both giant cell arteritis (GCA) and polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) are closely interrelated conditions that have significant overlap in aetiology, clinical characteristics and treatment regimens. Subclinical GCA in PMR is becoming increasingly recognised, and there is evolving evidence that this may be a more aggressive disease phenotype than PMR. Ultrasound (US) lends itself well as a screening tool for GCA in PMR; it is inexpensive, non-invasive, widely available, lacks ionising radiation, may be performed at the bedside and is recommended by EULAR as a first-line investigation for suspected GCA. There is insufficient evidence to currently recommend that all patients with PMR should have a US assessment for vascular involvement. However, as clinical and laboratory parameters alone do not accurately diagnose patients with subclinical GCA, we suggest that vascular US will be increasingly performed by rheumatologists in practice to identify these patients with PMR, preferably as part of larger prospective outcome studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharon Cowley
- Department of Rheumatology, Tallaght University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
- Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Patricia Harkins
- Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Department of Rheumatology, St James Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Colm Kirby
- Department of Rheumatology, Tallaght University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Richard Conway
- Department of Rheumatology, St James Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - David J Kane
- Department of Rheumatology, Tallaght University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
- Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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Köhn P, Pitasi C, Vilela VS, Vargas-Santos AB, Aschwanden M, Hemmig AK, Imfeld S, Staub D, Daikeler T. Supra-aortal intima-media thickness in treatment-naïve polymyalgia patients compared to matched controls. Clin Rheumatol 2024:10.1007/s10067-024-07021-3. [PMID: 38907849 DOI: 10.1007/s10067-024-07021-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2024] [Revised: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/24/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Philipp Köhn
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Basel, Petersgraben 4, 4031, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Camila Pitasi
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Pedro Ernesto, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Verônica Silva Vilela
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Pedro Ernesto, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | - Markus Aschwanden
- Department of Angiology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Andrea Katharina Hemmig
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Basel, Petersgraben 4, 4031, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Stephan Imfeld
- Department of Angiology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Daniel Staub
- Department of Angiology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Daikeler
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Basel, Petersgraben 4, 4031, Basel, Switzerland.
- University Center for Immunology, University Hospital Basel, Petersgraben 4, 4031, Basel, Switzerland.
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3
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Macchioni P, Germanò G, Girolimetto N, Klinowski G, Gavioli L, Muratore F, Laneri A, Ricordi C, Marvisi C, Magnani L, Salvarani C. Ultrasound Examination of Common Carotid Adventitial Thickness Can Differentiate Takayasu Arteritis and Large Vessel Giant Cell Arteritis. J Pers Med 2024; 14:627. [PMID: 38929848 PMCID: PMC11205024 DOI: 10.3390/jpm14060627] [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: 03/29/2024] [Revised: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Pathological studies have demonstrated that the adventitial layer is markedly thickened in Takayasu (TAK) as compared to large vessel giant cell arteritis (LV-GCA). An ultrasound (US) examination of the arterial vessels allows the determination of intima media thickness (IMT) and of adventitial layer thickness (extra media thickness (EMT)). No previous study has evaluated if there are differences in EMT thickness between TAK and LV-GCA. In this cross-sectional retrospective study of stored ultrasound (US) imaging, we have compared common carotid artery (CCA) EMT and IMT in a series of consecutive TAK and LV-GCA patients. US examination CCA IMT and EMT were significantly higher in TAK as compared to LV-GCA. With ROC curve analysis, we have found that an EMT > 0.76 mm has high sensitivity and specificity for TAK CCA examination. The percentage of CCA at EMT > 0.76 mm and the total arterial wall thickening were significantly higher in TAK group examinations. EMT thickness correlated with disease duration and IMT in the TAK group, as well as with the IMT and ESR values in the LV-GCA group. Upon multivariate logistic regression analysis, factors independently associated with TAK CCA were EMT > 0.76 mm and age. No significant variation in IMT and EMT could be demonstrated in subsequent US CCA examinations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierluigi Macchioni
- Division of Rheumatology, Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova, IRCCS, 42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy; (G.G.); (N.G.); (G.K.); (L.G.); (F.M.); (A.L.); (C.M.); (L.M.); (C.S.)
| | - Giuseppe Germanò
- Division of Rheumatology, Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova, IRCCS, 42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy; (G.G.); (N.G.); (G.K.); (L.G.); (F.M.); (A.L.); (C.M.); (L.M.); (C.S.)
| | - Nicolò Girolimetto
- Division of Rheumatology, Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova, IRCCS, 42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy; (G.G.); (N.G.); (G.K.); (L.G.); (F.M.); (A.L.); (C.M.); (L.M.); (C.S.)
| | - Giulia Klinowski
- Division of Rheumatology, Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova, IRCCS, 42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy; (G.G.); (N.G.); (G.K.); (L.G.); (F.M.); (A.L.); (C.M.); (L.M.); (C.S.)
| | - Letizia Gavioli
- Division of Rheumatology, Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova, IRCCS, 42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy; (G.G.); (N.G.); (G.K.); (L.G.); (F.M.); (A.L.); (C.M.); (L.M.); (C.S.)
| | - Francesco Muratore
- Division of Rheumatology, Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova, IRCCS, 42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy; (G.G.); (N.G.); (G.K.); (L.G.); (F.M.); (A.L.); (C.M.); (L.M.); (C.S.)
- Department of Surgery, Medicine, Dentistry and Morphological Sciences with Interest in Transplant, Oncology and Regenerative Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41124 Modena, Italy
| | - Alessia Laneri
- Division of Rheumatology, Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova, IRCCS, 42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy; (G.G.); (N.G.); (G.K.); (L.G.); (F.M.); (A.L.); (C.M.); (L.M.); (C.S.)
| | - Caterina Ricordi
- Division of Rheumatology, Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova, IRCCS, 42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy; (G.G.); (N.G.); (G.K.); (L.G.); (F.M.); (A.L.); (C.M.); (L.M.); (C.S.)
- Department of Surgery, Medicine, Dentistry and Morphological Sciences with Interest in Transplant, Oncology and Regenerative Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41124 Modena, Italy
| | - Chiara Marvisi
- Division of Rheumatology, Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova, IRCCS, 42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy; (G.G.); (N.G.); (G.K.); (L.G.); (F.M.); (A.L.); (C.M.); (L.M.); (C.S.)
- Department of Surgery, Medicine, Dentistry and Morphological Sciences with Interest in Transplant, Oncology and Regenerative Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41124 Modena, Italy
| | - Luca Magnani
- Division of Rheumatology, Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova, IRCCS, 42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy; (G.G.); (N.G.); (G.K.); (L.G.); (F.M.); (A.L.); (C.M.); (L.M.); (C.S.)
| | - Carlo Salvarani
- Division of Rheumatology, Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova, IRCCS, 42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy; (G.G.); (N.G.); (G.K.); (L.G.); (F.M.); (A.L.); (C.M.); (L.M.); (C.S.)
- Department of Surgery, Medicine, Dentistry and Morphological Sciences with Interest in Transplant, Oncology and Regenerative Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41124 Modena, Italy
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Schmidt WA, Schäfer VS. Diagnosing vasculitis with ultrasound: findings and pitfalls. Ther Adv Musculoskelet Dis 2024; 16:1759720X241251742. [PMID: 38846756 PMCID: PMC11155338 DOI: 10.1177/1759720x241251742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Rheumatologists are increasingly utilizing ultrasound for suspected giant cell arteritis (GCA) or Takayasu arteritis (TAK). This enables direct confirmation of a suspected diagnosis within the examination room without further referrals. Rheumatologists can ask additional questions and explain findings to their patients while performing ultrasound, preferably in fast-track clinics to prevent vision loss. Vascular ultrasound for suspected vasculitis was recently integrated into rheumatology training in Germany. New European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology recommendations prioritize ultrasound as the first imaging tool for suspected GCA and recommend it as an imaging option for suspected TAK alongside magnetic resonance imaging, positron emission tomography and computed tomography. Ultrasound is integral to the new classification criteria for GCA and TAK. Diagnosis is based on consistent clinical and ultrasound findings. Inconclusive cases require histology or additional imaging tests. Robust evidence establishes high sensitivities and specificities for ultrasound. Reliability is good among experts. Ultrasound reveals a characteristic non-compressible 'halo sign' indicating intima-media thickening (IMT) and, in acute disease, artery wall oedema. Ultrasound can further identify stenoses, occlusions and aneurysms, and IMT can be measured. In suspected GCA, ultrasound should include at least the temporal and axillary arteries bilaterally. Nearly all other arteries are accessible except the descending thoracic aorta. TAK mostly involves the common carotid and subclavian arteries. Ultrasound detects subclinical GCA in over 20% of polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) patients without GCA symptoms. Patients with silent GCA should be treated as GCA because they experience more relapses and require higher glucocorticoid doses than PMR patients without GCA. Scores based on intima-thickness (IMT) of temporal and axillary arteries aid follow-up of GCA, particularly in trials. The IMT decreases more rapidly in temporal than in axillary arteries. Ascending aorta ultrasound helps monitor patients with extracranial GCA for the development of aneurysms. Experienced sonologists can easily identify pitfalls, which will be addressed in this article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wolfgang A. Schmidt
- Immanuel Krankenhaus Berlin, Medical Centre for Rheumatology Berlin-Buch, Lindenberger Weg 19, Berlin 13125, Germany
| | - Valentin S. Schäfer
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Clinic of Internal Medicine III, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany
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Bosch P, Espigol-Frigolé G, Cid MC, Mollan SP, Schmidt WA. Cranial involvement in giant cell arteritis. THE LANCET. RHEUMATOLOGY 2024; 6:e384-e396. [PMID: 38574747 DOI: 10.1016/s2665-9913(24)00024-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
Since its first clinical description in 1890, extensive research has advanced our understanding of giant cell arteritis, leading to improvements in both diagnosis and management for affected patients. Imaging studies have shown that the disease frequently extends beyond the typical cranial arteries, also affecting large vessels such as the aorta and its proximal branches. Meanwhile, advances in comprehending the underlying pathophysiology of giant cell arteritis have given rise to numerous potential therapeutic agents, which aim to minimise the need for glucocorticoid treatment and prevent flares. Classification criteria for giant cell arteritis, as well as recommendations for management, imaging, and treat-to-target have been developed or updated in the last 5 years, and current research encompasses a broad spectrum covering basic, translational, and clinical research. In this Series paper, we aim to discuss the current understanding of giant cell arteritis with cranial manifestations, describe the clinical approach to this condition, and explore future directions in research and patient care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philipp Bosch
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria.
| | - Georgina Espigol-Frigolé
- Department of Autoimmune Diseases, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, Insitut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi I Sunyer, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Maria C Cid
- Department of Autoimmune Diseases, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, Insitut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi I Sunyer, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Susan P Mollan
- Birmingham Neuro-Ophthalmology, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK; Translational Brain Science, Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Wolfgang A Schmidt
- Department of Rheumatology, Immanuel Hospital Berlin, Medical Centre for Rheumatology Berlin-Buch, Berlin, Germany
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Hamann S, Ing EB, Lee AG, Van Stavern GP. Can Ultrasound Replace Temporal Artery Biopsy for Diagnosing Giant Cell Arteritis? J Neuroophthalmol 2024; 44:273-279. [PMID: 38551663 DOI: 10.1097/wno.0000000000002132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/15/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Steffen Hamann
- Department of Ophthalmology (SH), Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences (EI), University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada; Chair of Ophthalmology (AGL), Blanton Eye Institute, Methodist Hospital, Houston, Texas; and Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences (GPVS), Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri
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7
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van der Geest KSM, Sandovici M, Bley TA, Stone JR, Slart RHJA, Brouwer E. Large vessel giant cell arteritis. THE LANCET. RHEUMATOLOGY 2024; 6:e397-e408. [PMID: 38574745 DOI: 10.1016/s2665-9913(23)00300-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
Giant cell arteritis is the principal form of systemic vasculitis affecting people over 50. Large-vessel involvement, termed large vessel giant cell arteritis, mainly affects the aorta and its branches, often occurring alongside cranial giant cell arteritis, but large vessel giant cell arteritis without cranial giant cell arteritis can also occur. Patients mostly present with constitutional symptoms, with localising large vessel giant cell arteritis symptoms present in a minority of patients only. Large vessel giant cell arteritis is usually overlooked until clinicians seek to exclude it with imaging by ultrasonography, magnetic resonance angiography (MRA), computed tomography angiography (CTA), or [18F]fluorodeoxyglucose-PET-CT. Although the role of imaging in treatment monitoring remains uncertain, imaging by MRA or CTA is crucial for identifying aortic aneurysm formation during patient follow up. In this Series paper, we define the large vessel subset of giant cell arteritis and summarise its clinical challenges. Furthermore, we identify areas for future research regarding the management of large vessel giant cell arteritis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kornelis S M van der Geest
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands.
| | - Maria Sandovici
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Thorsten A Bley
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital Wuerzburg, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - James R Stone
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Riemer H J A Slart
- Medical Imaging Center, Department of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Netherlands; Department of Biomedical Photonic Imaging, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Twente, Enschede, Netherlands
| | - Elisabeth Brouwer
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
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Dejaco C, Ramiro S, Bond M, Bosch P, Ponte C, Mackie SL, Bley TA, Blockmans D, Brolin S, Bolek EC, Cassie R, Cid MC, Molina-Collada J, Dasgupta B, Nielsen BD, De Miguel E, Direskeneli H, Duftner C, Hočevar A, Molto A, Schäfer VS, Seitz L, Slart RHJA, Schmidt WA. EULAR recommendations for the use of imaging in large vessel vasculitis in clinical practice: 2023 update. Ann Rheum Dis 2024; 83:741-751. [PMID: 37550004 DOI: 10.1136/ard-2023-224543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To update the EULAR recommendations for the use of imaging modalities in primary large vessel vasculitis (LVV). METHODS A systematic literature review update was performed to retrieve new evidence on ultrasound, MRI, CT and [18F]-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (FDG-PET) for diagnosis, monitoring and outcome prediction in LVV. The task force consisted of 24 physicians, health professionals and patients from 14 countries. The recommendations were updated based on evidence and expert opinion, iterating until voting indicated consensus. The level of agreement was determined by anonymous votes. RESULTS Three overarching principles and eight recommendations were agreed. Compared to the 2018 version, ultrasound is now recommended as first-line imaging test in all patients with suspected giant cell arteritis, and axillary arteries should be included in the standard examination. As an alternative to ultrasound, cranial and extracranial arteries can be examined by FDG-PET or MRI. For Takayasu arteritis, MRI is the preferred imaging modality; FDG-PET, CT or ultrasound are alternatives. Although imaging is not routinely recommended for follow-up, ultrasound, FDG-PET or MRI may be used for assessing vessel abnormalities in LVV patients with suspected relapse, particularly when laboratory markers of inflammation are unreliable. MR-angiography, CT-angiography or ultrasound may be used for long-term monitoring of structural damage, particularly at sites of preceding vascular inflammation. CONCLUSIONS The 2023 EULAR recommendations provide up-to-date guidance for the role of imaging in the diagnosis and assessment of patients with LVV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Dejaco
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
- Department of Rheumatology, Teaching Hospital of the Paracelsius Medical University, Brunico Hospital (ASAA-SABES), Brunico, Italy
| | - Sofia Ramiro
- Department of Rheumatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Rheumatology, Zuyderland Medical Centre Heerlen, Heerlen, The Netherlands
| | - Milena Bond
- Department of Rheumatology, Teaching Hospital of the Paracelsius Medical University, Brunico Hospital (ASAA-SABES), Brunico, Italy
| | - Philipp Bosch
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Cristina Ponte
- Department of Rheumatology, Centro Hospitalar Universitario Lisboa Norte EPE, Lisboa, Portugal
- Rheumatology Research Unit, Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Sarah Louise Mackie
- Leeds Institute for Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
- NIHR Leeds Biomedical Research Centre, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Leeds, UK
| | - Thorsten A Bley
- Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Medical Center, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Daniel Blockmans
- Clinical Department of General Internal Medicine Department, Research Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Laboratory of Clinical Infectious and Inflammatory Disorders, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- General Internal Medicine Department, Universitair Ziekenhuis Gasthuisberg, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Sara Brolin
- Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Gastroenterology, Dermatology and Rheumatology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ertugrul Cagri Bolek
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Hacettepe Universitesi Tip Fakultesi, Ankara, Turkey
| | | | - Maria C Cid
- Department of Autoimmune Diseases, Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona. Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Juan Molina-Collada
- Department of Rheumatology, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain
| | - Bhaskar Dasgupta
- Rheumatology, Southend University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Basildon, UK
- Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, UK
| | - Berit Dalsgaard Nielsen
- Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus Universitetshospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Medicine, Regional Hospital Horsens, Horsens, Denmark
| | - Eugenio De Miguel
- Department of Rheumatology, La Paz University Hospital, Madrid, Spain
| | - Haner Direskeneli
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Marmara University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Christina Duftner
- Department of Internal Medicine, Clinical Division of Internal Medicine II, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Alojzija Hočevar
- Department of Rheumatology, University Medical Centre, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Department of Rheumatology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Anna Molto
- Department of Rheumatology, Cochin Hospital, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
- INSERM (U1153) Center of Research in Epidemiology and Statistics (CRESS), Université Paris-Cité, Paris, France
| | - Valentin Sebastian Schäfer
- Clinic of Internal Medicine III, Section Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Luca Seitz
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Inselspital, University Hospital Bern, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Riemer H J A Slart
- Medical Imaging Centre, Department of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, University Medical Center, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Department of Biomedical Photonic Imaging, Universiteit Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Wolfgang A Schmidt
- Department of Rheumatology, Immanuel Krankenhaus Berlin, Medical Centre for Rheumatology Berlin-Buch, Berlin, Germany
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Sebastian A, van der Geest KSM, Tomelleri A, Macchioni P, Klinowski G, Salvarani C, Prieto-Peña D, Conticini E, Khurshid M, Dagna L, Brouwer E, Dasgupta B. Development of a diagnostic prediction model for giant cell arteritis by sequential application of Southend Giant Cell Arteritis Probability Score and ultrasonography: a prospective multicentre study. THE LANCET. RHEUMATOLOGY 2024; 6:e291-e299. [PMID: 38554720 DOI: 10.1016/s2665-9913(24)00027-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Giant cell arteritis is a critically ischaemic disease with protean manifestations that require urgent diagnosis and treatment. European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR) recommendations advocate ultrasonography as the first investigation for suspected giant cell arteritis. We developed a prediction tool that sequentially combines clinical assessment, as determined by the Southend Giant Cell Arteritis Probability Score (SGCAPS), with results of quantitative ultrasonography. METHODS This prospective, multicentre, inception cohort study included consecutive patients with suspected new onset giant cell arteritis referred to fast-track clinics (seven centres in Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, and UK). Final clinical diagnosis was established at 6 months. SGCAPS and quantitative ultrasonography of temporal and axillary arteries with three scores (ie, halo count, halo score, and OMERACT GCA Score [OGUS]) were performed at diagnosis. We developed prediction models for diagnosis of giant cell arteritis by multivariable logistic regression analysis with SGCAPS and each of the three ultrasonographic scores as predicting variables. We obtained intraclass correlation coefficient for inter-rater and intra-rater reliability in a separate patient-based reliability exercise with five patients and five observers. FINDINGS Between Oct 1, 2019, and June 30, 2022, we recruited and followed up 229 patients (150 [66%] women and 79 [34%] men; mean age 71 years [SD 10]), of whom 84 were diagnosed with giant cell arteritis and 145 with giant cell arteritis mimics (controls) at 6 months. SGCAPS and all three ultrasonographic scores discriminated well between patients with and without giant cell arteritis. A reliability exercise showed that the inter-rater and intra-rater reliability was high for all three ultrasonographic scores. The prediction model combining SGCAPS with the halo count, which was termed HAS-GCA score, was the most accurate model, with an optimism-adjusted C statistic of 0·969 (95% CI 0·952 to 0·990). The HAS-GCA score could classify 169 (74%) of 229 patients into either the low or high probability groups, with misclassification observed in two (2%) of 105 patients in the low probability group and two (3%) of 64 of patients in the high probability group. A nomogram for easy application of the score in daily practice was created. INTERPRETATION A prediction tool for giant cell arteritis (the HAS-GCA score), combining SGCAPS and the halo count, reliably confirms and excludes giant cell arteritis from giant cell arteritis mimics in fast-track clinics. These findings require confirmation in an independent, multicentre study. FUNDING Royal College of Physicians of Ireland, FOREUM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alwin Sebastian
- Rheumatology, Southend University Hospital, Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust, Westcliff-on-sea, UK; School of Sport, Rehabilitation and Exercise science, University of Essex, Colchester, UK; Rheumatology, University Hospital Limerick, Dooradoyle, Ireland
| | - Kornelis S M van der Geest
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Alessandro Tomelleri
- Unit of Immunology, Rheumatology, Allergy and Rare Diseases, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Giulia Klinowski
- Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Università di Modena e Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Carlo Salvarani
- Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Università di Modena e Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Diana Prieto-Peña
- Rheumatology, Immunopathology, IDIVAL, Marqués de Valdecilla University Hospital, Santander, Spain
| | - Edoardo Conticini
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Neurosciences, University of Siena, Italy
| | | | - Lorenzo Dagna
- Unit of Immunology, Rheumatology, Allergy and Rare Diseases, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Elisabeth Brouwer
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Bhaskar Dasgupta
- Rheumatology, Southend University Hospital, Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust, Westcliff-on-sea, UK; School of Sport, Rehabilitation and Exercise science, University of Essex, Colchester, UK; MTRC, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, UK.
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Seitz P, Lötscher F, Bucher S, Bütikofer L, Maurer B, Hakim A, Seitz L. Ultrasound intima-media thickness cut-off values for the diagnosis of giant cell arteritis using a dual clinical and MRI reference standard and cardiovascular risk stratification. Front Med (Lausanne) 2024; 11:1389655. [PMID: 38654833 PMCID: PMC11037081 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2024.1389655] [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: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Objectives To derive segmental cut-off values and measures of diagnostic accuracy for the intima-media thickness of compressed temporal artery segments for the diagnosis of giant cell arteritis (GCA) on the patient level. To examine the influence of cardiovascular risk. Methods Retrospectively, patients evaluated for GCA with an ultrasound of the temporal arteries and an MRI of the head, including a T1-fatsat-black blood (T1-BB) sequence, were identified and classified based on cardiovascular risk and a dual reference standard of T1-BB on the segmental level and the clinical diagnosis on the patient level. Intima-media thickness of the common superficial temporal artery (CSTA), frontal and parietal branches (FB, PB) were measured by compression technique. Statistically and clinically optimal (specificity of approx. 90% for the patient level) cut-offs were derived. Diagnostic accuracy was evaluated on the patient level. Results The population consisted of 144 patients, 74 (51.4%) with and 70 (48.6%) without GCA. The statistically optimal cut-offs were 0.86 mm, 0.68 mm and 0.67 mm for the CSTA, the FB and PB, respectively. On the patient level sensitivity and specificity were 86.5 and 81.4%. Clinically optimal cut-offs were 1.01 mm, 0.82 mm and 0.69 mm and showed a sensitivity of 79.7% and a specificity of 90.0%. For patients without high cardiovascular risk, statistically optimal cut-offs showed a sensitivity of 89.6% and a specificity of 90.5%. Conclusion Newly derived ultrasound intima-media thickness cut-offs with a dual reference standard show high diagnostic accuracy on the patient level for the diagnosis of GCA, particularly in patients without high cardiovascular risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pascal Seitz
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Inselspital, University Hospital Bern, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Fabian Lötscher
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Inselspital, University Hospital Bern, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Susana Bucher
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Inselspital, University Hospital Bern, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Lukas Bütikofer
- CTU Bern, Department of Clinical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Britta Maurer
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Inselspital, University Hospital Bern, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Arsany Hakim
- University Institute of Interventional and Diagnostic Neuroradiology, Inselspital, University Hospital Bern, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Luca Seitz
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Inselspital, University Hospital Bern, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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11
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Tomelleri A, Dejaco C. New blood biomarkers and imaging for disease stratification and monitoring of giant cell arteritis. RMD Open 2024; 10:e003397. [PMID: 38395453 PMCID: PMC10895233 DOI: 10.1136/rmdopen-2023-003397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Relapses and late complications remain a concern in giant cell arteritis (GCA). Monitoring strategies are required to effectively tailor treatment and improve patients' outcomes. Current monitoring of GCA is based on clinical assessment and evaluation of traditional inflammatory markers such as C reactive protein and erythrocyte sedimentation rate; however, this approach has limited value in patients receiving interleukin (IL)-6 blocking agents. New blood biomarkers that are less dependent on the IL-6 axis such as IL-23, B cell activating factor, osteopontin and calprotectin have been explored, but none of them has yet accumulated sufficient evidence to qualify as a routine follow-up parameter. Imaging techniques, including ultrasound and 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography, potentially offer additional insights; however, the choice of the imaging method as well as its interpretation must be investigated further. Future studies are required to investigate the outcome of patients with GCA whose treatment decisions are based on traditional plus novel (laboratory and imaging) biomarkers as compared with those undergoing conventional monitoring strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Tomelleri
- Unit of Immunology, Rheumatology, Allergy and Rare Diseases, San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Christian Dejaco
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
- Rheumatology, Teaching Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, Brunico Hospital, Brunico, Trentino-Alto Adige, Italy
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12
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Kreis L, Dejaco C, Schmidt WA, Németh R, Venhoff N, Schäfer VS. The Meteoritics Trial: efficacy of methotrexate after remission-induction with tocilizumab and glucocorticoids in giant cell arteritis-study protocol for a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group phase II study. Trials 2024; 25:56. [PMID: 38225579 PMCID: PMC10790384 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-024-07905-4] [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: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/17/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Glucocorticoids (GC) are the standard treatment for giant cell arteritis (GCA), even though they are associated with adverse side effects and high relapse rates. Tocilizumab (TCZ), an interleukin-6 receptor antagonist, has shown promise in sustaining remission and reducing the cumulative GC dosage, but it increases the risk of infections and is expensive. After discontinuation of TCZ, only about half of patients remain in remission. Additionally, only few studies have been conducted looking at remission maintenance, highlighting the need for alternative strategies to maintain remission in GCA. Methotrexate (MTX) has been shown to significantly decrease the risk of relapse in new-onset GCA and is already a proven safe drug in many rheumatologic diseases. METHODS This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of MTX in maintaining remission in patients with GCA who have previously been treated with GC and at least 6 months with TCZ. We hypothesize that MTX can maintain remission in GCA patients, who have achieved stable remission after treatment with GC and TCZ, and prevent the occurrence of relapses. The study design is a monocentric, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group phase II trial randomizing 40 GCA patients 1:1 into a MTX or placebo arm. Patients will receive 17.5 mg MTX/matching placebo weekly by subcutaneous injection for 12 months, with the possibility of dose reduction if clinically needed. A 6-month follow-up will take place. The primary endpoint is the time to first relapse in the MTX group versus placebo during the 12-month treatment period. Secondary outcomes include patient- and investigator-reported outcomes and laboratory findings, as well as the prevalence of aortitis, number of vasculitic vessels, and change in intima-media thickness during the study. DISCUSSION This is the first clinical trial evaluating remission maintenance of GCA with MTX after a previous treatment cycle with TCZ. Following the discontinuation of TCZ in GCA, MTX could be a safe and inexpensive drug. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT05623592. Registered on 21 November 2022. EU Clinical Trials Register, 2022-501058-12-00. German Clinical Trials Register DRKS00030571.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lena Kreis
- Department of Internal Medicine III, Oncology, Haematology, Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany
| | - Christian Dejaco
- Department of Rheumatology, Medical University Graz, Auenbruggerplaz 15, 8036, Graz, Austria
| | - Wolfgang Andreas Schmidt
- Medical Centre for Rheumatology Berlin-Buch, Immanuel Krankenhaus Berlin, Lindenberger Weg 19, 13125, Berlin, Germany
| | - Robert Németh
- Institute of Medical Biometry, Informatics and Epidemiology, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Nils Venhoff
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Hugstetterstraße 55, 79106, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Valentin Sebastian Schäfer
- Department of Internal Medicine III, Oncology, Haematology, Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany.
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13
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Andel PM, Diamantopoulos AP, Myklebust G, Haugeberg G. Vasculitis distribution and clinical characteristics in giant cell arteritis: a retrospective study using the new 2022 ACR/EULAR classification criteria. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1286601. [PMID: 38020143 PMCID: PMC10681091 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1286601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is the most common vasculitis of the elderly. In recent years, advanced imaging has to a certain extent replaced temporal artery biopsy (TAB) to aid diagnosis in many institutions and helped to identify three major phenotypes of GCA, namely, cranial GCA (c-GCA), large-vessel non-cranial GCA (LV-GCA), and a combination of these two patterns called mixed-GCA, which all show different clinical patterns. Recent 2022 American College of Rheumatology (ACR)/European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) classification criteria respect the changing conception and clinical practice during the last two decades. In this cohort study, we present vasculitis distribution and baseline characteristics using the 2022 ACR/EULAR classification criteria as well as the EULAR core data set. Methods In this retrospective study from Southern Norway, we identified all patients diagnosed with GCA between 2006 and 2019 in our single-center fast-track clinic (FTC). We included all patients who were examined using ultrasound (US) of cranial as well as non-cranial large vessels at diagnosis to depict vascular distribution. EULAR core data set, ACR 1990, and 2022 ACR/EULAR classification criteria were used to characterize the cohort. Results Seventy-seven patients were diagnosed with GCA at our institution in the aforementioned period. Seventy-one patients (92.2%) were diagnosed with the help of US and included in the further analysis. The 2022 ACR/EULAR classification criteria allocated 69 patients (97.2%), while the ACR 1990 classification criteria allocated 49 patients (69.0%) in our cohort as having GCA. Mixed-GCA was the most common type in 33 patients (46.5%). Weight loss was significantly more common in patients with large-vessel non-cranial vasculitis in LV-GCA and mixed-GCA. Headache, on the other hand, was significantly more common in patients with involvement of cranial vessels. Conclusion Mixed GCA was the most common form of GCA in our cohort. In our study, the 2022 ACR/EULAR classification criteria seem to be a more useful tool compared with the old ACR 1990 classification criteria to allocate GCA patients diagnosed and treated at our US-based FTC as having GCA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter M. Andel
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Rheumatology, Surgery, Inflammation and Transplantation, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Research Department, Hospital of South East Norway, Kalnes, Norway
| | - Andreas P. Diamantopoulos
- Division of Internal Medicine, Department of Infectious Diseases, Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway
| | | | - Glenn Haugeberg
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital of Southern Norway, Kristiansand, Norway
- Department of Neuromedicine and Movement Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway
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14
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Casteleyn V, Schmidt WA. [Imaging of large vessel vasculitis]. Z Rheumatol 2023; 82:646-653. [PMID: 37620546 DOI: 10.1007/s00393-023-01405-7] [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: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
Giant cell arteritis (GCA) and Takayasu arteritis (TAK) are the most important primary large vessel vasculitides. A rapid and reliable confirmation of the diagnosis is necessary to prevent ischemic complications. Patients with extracranial GCA and TAK often present with unspecific symptoms. Since 2018 the EULAR has recommended imaging as an alternative to histology for confirming the diagnosis. Ultrasound is particularly recommended as the primary imaging modality for cranial GCA. Alternatively, MRI and PET can be used for the diagnostics of temporal arteritis. Ultrasound is also valuable for extracranial GCA, alternatively MRI, CT or PET-CT can be used. This review discusses the current status of imaging techniques in large vessel vasculitis as well as the advantages and disadvantages. The focus is on ultrasound, which is increasingly being used as the primary diagnostic modality due to its excellent diagnostic quality, wide availability, noninvasiveness, and patient friendliness. Technical aspects, prerequisites, and normal and pathological findings are also presented. Finally, an outlook is given on promising new developments, such as scores for evaluating disease progression and contrast-enhanced ultrasound.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Casteleyn
- Medizinische Klinik mit Schwerpunkt Rheumatologie und klinische Immunologie, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Charité Mitte, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Deutschland.
| | - Wolfgang Andreas Schmidt
- Abteilung Rheumatologie und Klinische Immunologie, Immanuel Krankenhaus Berlin, Standort Berlin-Buch, Lindenberger Weg 19, 13125, Berlin, Deutschland
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15
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Nielsen BD, Therkildsen P, Keller KK, Gormsen LC, Hansen IT, Hauge EM. Ultrasonography in the assessment of disease activity in cranial and large-vessel giant cell arteritis: a prospective follow-up study. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2023; 62:3084-3094. [PMID: 36651670 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/kead028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We evaluated sensitivity to change and discriminative abilities of vascular US scores in disease monitoring in the follow-up of a prospective cohort of new-onset cranial and large-vessel (LV) GCA patients. METHODS Baseline and follow-up (8 weeks, 24 weeks and 15 months) US of temporal arteries (TA), carotid and axillary arteries (LV) included assessment of halo and measurement of the intima media complex (IMC). Max IMC, max halo IMC, sum IMC, sum halo IMC, mean IMC, halo count and the Southend halo score were calculated. The provisional OMERACT US score, OGUS, was obtained, taking the average of temporal arteries and axillary arteries IMCs divided by their normal cut-off values. RESULTS Baseline US was positive in 44/47 patients (72% TA, 72% LV). Sensitivity to change of all composite US scores containing TAs was evident by week 8 onward. LVs responded poorly and new axillary US lesions emerged in six patients despite clinical remission. The OGUS showed a large magnitude of change and is considered the score least prone to potential bias. All TA-based US scores showed moderate-strong correlation with disease activity markers. OGUS, TA halo count, Southend TA halo score, TA sum IMC and TA mean IMC showed potential to discriminate remission and relapse with area under the curve ≥0.8. CONCLUSIONS The OGUS is suggested as an outcome measurement for the assessment of treatment response in clinical trials. The abilities of US scores to discriminate remission and relapse are encouraging and should be further explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Berit Dalsgaard Nielsen
- Department of Medicine, The Regional Hospital in Horsens, Horsens, Denmark
- Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Philip Therkildsen
- Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Kresten K Keller
- Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Lars C Gormsen
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and PET Centre, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Ib T Hansen
- Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Ellen-Margrethe Hauge
- Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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16
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Schmidt WA. Vascular ultrasound in rheumatology practice. Best Pract Res Clin Rheumatol 2023; 37:101847. [PMID: 37419758 DOI: 10.1016/j.berh.2023.101847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2023]
Abstract
Rheumatologists are increasingly using vascular ultrasound. Several guidelines now recommend ultrasound as the first diagnostic modality in giant cell arteritis (GCA). The German curriculum for rheumatology training has recently included ultrasound for the acute diagnosis of vasculitis. Recent studies have shown that ultrasound of temporal, axillary, subclavian, and vertebral arteries has sensitivities and specificities of >90%. Vascular ultrasound detects subclinical GCA in approximately 20% of patients with "pure" polymyalgia rheumatica. GCA fast-track clinics might regularly include these patients. A new score based on the intima-media thickness of the temporal and axillary arteries allows the monitoring of structural changes with treatment. The score decreases faster for the temporal arteries than it does for the axillary arteries. Measuring the diameter of the ascending aorta and the aortic arch might become a fast and cost-effective tool for the long-term monitoring of aortic aneurysms in extracranial GCA. Vascular ultrasound also has a role for Takayasu arteritis, thrombosis, Behçet's syndrome, and Raynaud's phenomenon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wolfgang A Schmidt
- Immanuel Krankenhaus Berlin, Medical Center for Rheumatology Berlin-Buch, Lindenberger Weg 19, 13125 Berlin, Germany.
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