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Vinicki JP, Cusa A, Domingo D, Velasco Zamora JL, Magri S, Brigante A, Schmid MM, Ávila P, Zamora N, Sorrentino L, Rodriguez AM, Linarez M, Pisoni C, Costi C, Rodriguez Gil G, Spinetto MA, Paris VU, Perrotta N, Maliandi MDR, Rillo O, Pena C, Got J, Cavallasca J, Machado Escobar M, Iturralde C, Martire MV, Tessel R, Chocobar NS, Alarcon G. Effectiveness of methotrexate and leflunomide as corticoid-sparing drugs in patients with polymyalgia rheumatica. Rheumatol Adv Pract 2024; 8:rkae033. [PMID: 38560643 PMCID: PMC10978571 DOI: 10.1093/rap/rkae033] [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: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Objectives The need for glucocorticoid-sparing drugs (GCSD) remains an important issue and is an unmet need in the treatment of polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR). We therefore aimed to assess the effectiveness and safety of methotrexate (MTX) and of leflunomide (LEF) in daily clinical practice in PMR patients from Argentina. Methods A multicentre and observational study (medical records review) of PMR patients seen between 2007 and 2023, who had at least three months of follow-up after starting a GCSD, either MTX or LEF, was performed. Results are expressed as medians and interquartile ranges [25th-75th (IQR)] for continuous variables and percentages for categorical ones. The two treatment groups were compared using χ2 test for categorical variables, Mann-Whitney U test for continuous variables and the log-rank test for time-to-event data. Crude and adjusted odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using logistic regression. In all cases, a p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results One-hundred and eighty-six patients (79% female) with a median age of 72 years (IQR, 65-77 years) were included. One-hundred and forty-three patients (77%) were prescribed MTX (15, IQR 10-15) and 43 (23%) LEF (20 mg, fixed dose). Flare-ups (relapses and recurrences) occurred in 13 patients (7%) and were comparable between both groups. Persistent GCSD intake was observed in 145 patients (78%). Glucocorticoid (GC) withdrawal was achieved in 67 of these 145 patients (46%) and this occurred more frequently in the LEF group (P = 0.001). Furthermore, time until prednisone discontinuation was shorter in the LEF-treated patients (4.7 months, IQR 3-20 on LEF versus 31.8 months, IQR 10-82 on MTX, P = 0.000). Remission was found more frequently in the LEF group (P = 0.003). In the multivariate analysis, the probability of remission was higher with LEF therapy (P = 0.010) and this finding persisted in the subgroup analysis who were followed up < 40 months (OR 3.12, 95% CI = 1.30-7.47, P = 0.011). Conclusions This study demonstrated the clinical effectiveness of LEF and even its superiority in achieving remission when compared with MTX as GCSD in PMR patients. Further research is needed to support these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Sebastián Magri
- Unidad de Reumatología, Hospital Italiano de La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | | | - Paola Ávila
- Sección Reumatología, Hospital de Quilmes, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Natalia Zamora
- Sección Reumatología, HIGA San José, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Laura Sorrentino
- Servicio de Reumatología, Sanatorio Güemes, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | | | - Cecilia Pisoni
- CEMIC, Sección Reumatología e Inmunología, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Carolina Costi
- Servicio de Reumatología, HIGA San Martín de La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Gustavo Rodriguez Gil
- Unidad de Reumatología, Hospítal Municipal Dr Leónidas Lucero, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | - Vanesa Ursula Paris
- Unidad de Reumatología, Hospital Escuela de Agudos Dr Ramón Madariaga, Misiones, Argentina
| | - Natalia Perrotta
- Servicio de Reumatología, Hospital Dr César Milstein, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | - Oscar Rillo
- Sección Reumatología, Hospital Ignacio Pirovano, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Claudia Pena
- Servicio de Reumatología, HIGA San Martín de La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Julio Got
- Unidad de Reumatología, Instituto Médico HUMANITAS, Chaco, Argentina
| | - Javier Cavallasca
- Sección Reumatología, Hospital José Bernardo Iturraspe, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | | | - Carolina Iturralde
- Servicio de Reumatología, HIGA Dr Oscar Alende, Mar del Plata, Argentina
| | | | - Romina Tessel
- Servicio de Reumatología, Hospital Señor del Milagro, Salta, Argentina
| | | | - Graciela Alarcon
- Division of Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Marnix E. Heersink School of Medicine, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, United States
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Shan S, Mian M. Diagnostic Value of Short Course Low-dose Prednisolone in Patients with Clinically Suspected Seronegative Inflammatory Arthritis - A Retrospective Study. Curr Rheumatol Rev 2024; 20:296-303. [PMID: 38173068 DOI: 10.2174/0115733971273652231213092458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We aim to establish the utility of a trial of low-dose systemic glucocorticoid therapy in the assessment of new clinically suspected inflammatory arthritis patients. METHODS We retrospectively identified patients from a private rheumatology practice in Melbourne, Australia between January 1st, 2019, and December 31st, 2021, who presented with clinically suspected inflammatory arthritis and subsequently underwent a trial of low-dose prednisolone (15 mg daily weaned over three weeks in 5 mg increments). We excluded patients with known autoimmune/ inflammatory disorders or concurrent immunosuppression at presentation. We collected basic participant demographic details and clinical details of their presentation, glucocorticoid response, investigations, and treatment. RESULTS We recruited 177 participants with a median age of 52, and 69.5% were female gender. The median symptom time to presentation was 12 months. Hands were the most affected joint in 63.3% and 85% had bilateral disease. Among the participants, 29.4% had synovitis on clinical review and 75.7% had imaging performed as part of the initial assessment. At presentation, the median CRP was 11 and the median ESR was 16. 79.7% of the cohort experienced significant improvement in their arthritis symptoms from low-dose glucocorticoids and 83.6% of the cohort required long-term immunosuppression for an underlying inflammatory condition. Of those who responded to glucocorticoids, 92.1% were diagnosed with an inflammatory condition. Rheumatoid arthritis was the most common overall diagnosis in 28%. CONCLUSION An initial trial of low-dose glucocorticoids in undifferentiated arthritis patients is useful in predicting the diagnosis of inflammatory arthritis. It is also a predictor of further long-term steroid-sparing therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sam Shan
- Department of General Medicine, Northern Health, Victoria, 3076, Australia
| | - Mueed Mian
- Department of Rheumatology, Northern Health, Victoria, 3076, Australia
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Springer JM, Kermani TA. Recent advances in the treatment of giant cell arteritis. Best Pract Res Clin Rheumatol 2023; 37:101830. [PMID: 37328409 DOI: 10.1016/j.berh.2023.101830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is a systemic, granulomatous, large-vessel vasculitis that affects individuals over the age of 50 years. Morbidity from disease includes cranial manifestations which can cause irreversible blindness, while extra-cranial manifestations can cause vascular damage with large-artery stenosis, occlusions, aortitis, aneurysms, and dissections. Glucocorticoids while efficacious are associated with significant adverse effects. Furthermore, despite treatment with glucocorticoids, relapses are common. An understanding of the pathogenesis of GCA has led to the discovery of tocilizumab as an efficacious steroid-sparing therapy while additional therapeutic targets affecting different inflammatory pathways are under investigation. Surgical treatment may be indicated in cases of refractory ischemia or aortic complications but data on surgical outcomes are limited. Despite the recent advances, many unmet needs exist, including the identification of patients or subsets of GCA who would benefit from earlier initiation of adjunctive therapies, patients who may warrant long-term immunosuppression and medications that sustain permanent remission. The impact of medications like tocilizumab on long-term outcomes, including the development of aortic aneurysms and vascular damage also warrants investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason M Springer
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 1161 21st Avenue Sound, T3113 Medical Center North, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA.
| | - Tanaz A Kermani
- University of California Los Angeles, 2020 Santa Monica Boulevard, Suite 540, Santa Monica, CA, 90404, USA.
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4
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Hanberg JS, Miloslavsky EM. Steroid sparing in vasculitis: Myth or reality? Best Pract Res Clin Rheumatol 2023; 37:101843. [PMID: 37355346 DOI: 10.1016/j.berh.2023.101843] [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: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 05/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023]
Abstract
Glucocorticoids are the cornerstone of therapy for all forms of vasculitis. However, glucocorticoid treatment carries with it the risk of glucocorticoid toxicity. Recent research efforts in vasculitis have emphasized investigation into strategies that reduce glucocorticoid exposure. These strategies include the adoption of rapid-acting steroid-sparing agents, reduced-dose glucocorticoid induction regimens, the early introduction of steroid-sparing agents for maintenance therapy, and the extension of maintenance therapy to minimize glucocorticoid exposure associated with disease relapse. These are critical advances to move us toward the goal of glucocorticoid-free treatment of vasculitis. The evidence supporting each of these strategies and directions for future research are explored.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Eli M Miloslavsky
- Rheumatology Unit, Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Immunology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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5
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Henes JC, Saur S. Diagnostik und Therapie der
Großgefäßvaskulitiden – Wo stehen wir
aktuell? AKTUEL RHEUMATOL 2022. [DOI: 10.1055/a-1931-3989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
ZusammenfassungDie beiden Großgefäßvaskulitiden unterscheiden sich in
mehrfacher Hinsicht, vor allem aber durch das Alter der betroffenen Patienten
bei Erstmanifestation. Die Riesenzellarteriitis (RZA) ist eine Erkrankung des
älteren Patienten wohingegen die Takayasu Arteriitis per definitionem
vor dem 40 Lebensjahr auftritt. Die Diagnosen sind in den letzten Jahren durch
verbesserte Bildgebung und Therapieoptionen mehr ins Bewusstsein
gerückt. Neben der klassischen Steroidtherapie – welche bis
heute Mittel der ersten Wahl ist – steht uns mit Tocilizumab, einem
monoklonalen Antikörper gegen IL6-Rezeptor, zumindest für die
RZA, eine zusätzliche hocheffektive Therapie zur Verfügung.
Andere vielversprechende Substanzen befinden sich derzeit in Erprobung. Dieser
Artikel soll einen Überblick zu Diagnostik und Therapie, aber auch einen
Ausblick zu möglicherweise kommenden medikamentösen Optionen
bieten.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joerg Christoph Henes
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Clinical Immunology, Rheumatology and
Auto-inflammatory Diseases and Internal Medicine II, University Hospital
Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Sebastian Saur
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Clinical Immunology, Rheumatology and
Auto-inflammatory Diseases and Internal Medicine II, University Hospital
Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
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Abstract
Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) is the most common inflammatory rheumatic disease affecting people older than 50 years and is 2-3 times more common in women. The most common symptoms are pain and morning stiffness in the shoulder and pelvic girdle and the onset may be acute or develop over a few days to weeks. General symptoms such as fatigue, fever and weight loss may occur, likely driven by systemic IL-6 signalling. The pathology includes synovial and periarticular inflammation and muscular vasculopathy. A new observation is that PMR may appear as a side effect of cancer treatment with checkpoint inhibitors. The diagnosis of PMR relies mainly on symptoms and signs combined with laboratory markers of inflammation. Imaging modalities including ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging and positron emission tomography with computed tomography are promising new tools in the investigation of suspected PMR. However, they are still limited by availability, high cost and unclear performance in the diagnostic workup. Glucocorticoid (GC) therapy is effective in PMR, with most patients responding promptly to 15-25 mg prednisolone per day. There are challenges in the management of patients with PMR as relapses do occur and patients with PMR may need to stay on GC for extended periods. This is associated with high rates of GC-related comorbidities, such as diabetes and osteoporosis, and there are limited data on the use of disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs and biologics as GC sparing agents. Finally, PMR is associated with giant cell arteritis that may complicate the disease course and require more intense and prolonged treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingrid E Lundberg
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Solna, Karolinska Institutet and Rheumatology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ankita Sharma
- Rheumatology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Malmö, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Carl Turesson
- Rheumatology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Malmö, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden.,Department of Rheumatology, Skåne University Hospital, Lund-Malmö, Sweden
| | - Aladdin J Mohammad
- Department of Rheumatology, Skåne University Hospital, Lund-Malmö, Sweden.,Rheumatology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund, Lund University, Lund, Sweden.,Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
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7
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Treatment of Giant Cell Arteritis (GCA). J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11071799. [PMID: 35407411 PMCID: PMC8999932 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11071799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is the most frequent primary large-vessel vasculitis in individuals older than 50. Glucocorticoids (GCs) are considered the cornerstone of treatment. GC therapy is usually tapered over months according to clinical symptoms and inflammatory marker levels. Considering the high rate of GC-related adverse events in these older individuals, immunosuppressive treatments and biologic agents have been proposed as add-on therapies. Methotrexate was considered an alternative option, but its clinical impact was limited. Other immunosuppressants failed to demonstrate a significant favourable benefit/risk ratio. The approval of tocilizumab, an anti-interleukin 6 (IL-6) receptor inhibitor brought significant improvement. Indeed, tocilizumab had a noticeable effect on cumulative GCs’ dose and relapse prevention. After the improvement in pathophysiological knowledge, other targeted therapies have been proposed, with anti-IL-12/23, anti-IL-17, anti-IL-1, anti-cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen 4, Janus kinase inhibitors or anti-granulocyte/macrophage colony stimulating factor therapies. These therapies are currently under evaluation. Interestingly, mavrilimumab, ustekinumab and, to a lesser extent, abatacept have shown promising results in phase 2 randomised controlled trials. Despite this recent progress, the value, specific condition and optimal application of each treatment remain undecided. In this review, we discuss the scientific rationale for each treatment and the therapeutic strategy.
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8
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Ughi N, Padoan R, Crotti C, Sciascia S, Carrara G, Zanetti A, Rozza D, Monti S, Camellino D, Muratore F, Emmi G, Quartuccio L, Morbelli S, El Aoufy K, Tonolo S, Caporali R, De Vita S, Salvarani C, Cimmino M. The Italian Society of Rheumatology clinical practice guidelines for the management of large vessel vasculitis. Reumatismo 2022; 73. [DOI: 10.4081/reumatismo.2021.1470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: Since of the last publication of last recommendations on primary large-vessel vasculitis (LVV) endorsed by the Italian Society of Rheumatology (SIR) in 2012, new evidence emerged regarding the diagnosis and the treatment with conventional and biologic immunosuppressive drugs. The associated potential change of clinical care supported the need to update the original recommendations. Methods: Using the grading of recommendations assessment, development and evaluation (GRADE)-ADOLOPMENT framework, a systematic literature review was performed to update the evidence supporting the European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR) guidelines on LVV as reference. A multidisciplinary panel of 12 expert clinicians, a trained nurse, and a patients’ representative discussed the recommendation in cooperation with an Evidence Review Team. Sixty-one stakeholders were consulted to externally review and rate the recommendations. Results: Twelve recommendations were formulated. A suspected diagnosis of LVV should be confirmed by imaging or histology. In active GCA or TAK, the prompt commencement of high dose of oral glucocorticoids (40-60 mg prednisone-equivalent per day) is strongly recommended to induce clinical remission. In selected patients with GCA (e.g., refractory or relapsing disease or patients at risk of glucocorticoid related adverse effects) the use of an adjunctive therapy (tocilizumab or methotrexate) is recommended. In all patients diagnosed with TAK, adjunctive therapies, such as conventional synthetic or biological immunosuppressants, should be given in combination with glucocorticoids. Conclusions: The new set of SIR recommendations was formulated in order to provide a guidance on both diagnosis and treatment of patients suspected of or with a definite diagnosis of LVV.
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So behandle ich – die Polymyalgia rheumatica mit möglichst geringer kumulativer Glukokortikoiddosis. Z Rheumatol 2022; 81:136-139. [DOI: 10.1007/s00393-022-01157-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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10
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Solimando AG, Vacca A, Dammacco F. Highlights in clinical medicine-Giant cell arteritis, polymyalgia rheumatica and Takayasu's arteritis: pathogenic links and therapeutic implications. Clin Exp Med 2021; 22:509-518. [PMID: 34741677 DOI: 10.1007/s10238-021-00770-4] [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: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Giant cell arteritis (GCA), frequently associated with polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR), and Takayasu's arteritis (TAK) are characterized by extensive vascular remodeling that results in occlusion and stenosis. The pathophysiological mechanisms underlying the onset of GCA/PMR and TAK are still hypothetical. However, similarities and differences in the immunopathology and clinical phenotypes of these diseases point toward a possible link between them. The loss of tolerance in the periphery, a breakdown of tissue barriers, and the development of granulomatous vasculitis define a disease continuum. However, statistically powered studies are needed to confirm these correlations. In addition to glucocorticoids, inhibition of the interleukin-6 axis has been proposed as a cornerstone in the treatment of GCA/PMR and TAK. Novel biologic agents targeting the pathogenic pathway at various levels hold promise to achieve glucocorticoid-free sustained remission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Giovanni Solimando
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Medical School, Polyclinic, Piazza Giulio Cesare, 11, 70124, Bari, Italy
| | - Angelo Vacca
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Medical School, Polyclinic, Piazza Giulio Cesare, 11, 70124, Bari, Italy
| | - Franco Dammacco
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Medical School, Polyclinic, Piazza Giulio Cesare, 11, 70124, Bari, Italy.
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How to taper glucocorticoids in inflammatory rheumatic diseases? A narrative review of novel evidence in rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and giant cell arteritis. Joint Bone Spine 2021; 89:105285. [PMID: 34601110 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbspin.2021.105285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Glucocorticoids (GCs) remain regularly used drugs in patients with chronic inflammatory rheumatic diseases. As long-term intake at high dosages is associated with harm, it is generally advised that GCs be tapered and stopped. However, most recommendations concerning tapering have been eminence- or consensus-based. In this narrative review, we present novel data from recent studies (SEMIRA, CORTICOLUP, and GiACTA) shedding light from different angles on the effects of tapering GCs in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and giant cell arteritis (GCA). In RA and SLE, our main findings comprise that (a) the majority of RA and SLE patients can successfully taper their GC, but that (b) tapering increases the risk of flare. In GCA, tocilizumab was shown to be a potent GC-sparing agent. Finally, we also present exemplary tapering schemes for RA, SLE, and GCA, although different tapering regimens have not yet been sufficiently compared in randomized trials.
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12
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Aussedat M, Lobbes H, Samson M, Euvrard R, Lega JC, Mainbourg S. Epidemiology of major relapse in giant cell arteritis: A study-level meta-analysis. Autoimmun Rev 2021; 21:102930. [PMID: 34481940 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2021.102930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The relapse rate of giant cell arteritis (GCA) is around 48%. Major relapse of GCA is defined by the European League Against Rheumatism as severe ischemic or aortic (stenosis, aneurysm, or aortic dissection) disease of GCA. The objective of the present study was to determine the prevalence and incidence, as well as the spectrum of major relapse in GCA using published data. METHODS The MEDLINE and Cochrane databases were searched up to March 2020. Studies that included patients with newly diagnosed or relapsed GCA receiving glucocorticoids (GC) alone and/or GC-sparing therapy, detailing the number of relapsing patients and the characteristics of relapses were included. The prevalence and incidence of major relapse were pooled using a random-effects model. RESULTS Twenty-six studies (including eight randomised controlled trials) involving 2754 patients with GCA were included. The prevalence and incidence of major relapse in this population was 3.3% (95%CI [1.7;5.6]; I2 = 86%) and 14.5/100 patient-years (95%CI [5.2;27.2]; I2 = 90%). The clinical manifestations were jaw claudication (44.3%), ophthalmological involvement (32.7%), peripheral limb ischemia (12.5%), aortic (7.7%), and neurological involvements (4.8%). In the meta-regression analysis, the duration of follow-up was negatively associated with the incidence of major relapse (Beta = -0.015, 95%CI [-0.026; -0.0042]; p = 0.0063). The incidence of major relapse was significantly higher in prospective studies (55.2/100 person-years, 95%CI [15.3;114.3] than in retrospective studies (4.1/100 patient-years, 95%CI[1.1;8.4]; pinteraction = 0.000.2). CONCLUSION This study found that there was heterogeneity among studies, and this is partially related to study design. Jaw claudication was frequent and increases the prevalence and incidence of relapses major.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Aussedat
- Institut du Vieillissement I-Vie, Hôpital des Charpennes, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Hervé Lobbes
- Service de médecine interne, Hôpital Estaing, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Clermont-Ferrand, F-63100 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Maxime Samson
- Service de médecine interne et d'immunologie clinique, CHU Dijon Bourgogne, Hôpital François Mitterrand, F-21000 Dijon, France
| | - Romain Euvrard
- Service de médecine interne et vasculaire, Centre Hospitalier Lyon Sud, Hospices Civils de Lyon, F-69495 Pierre-Bénite, France
| | - Jean-Christophe Lega
- Service de médecine interne et vasculaire, Centre Hospitalier Lyon Sud, Hospices Civils de Lyon, F-69495 Pierre-Bénite, France; Université de Lyon, Université Lyon 1, CNRS, Laboratoire de Biométrie et Biologie Evolutive UMR 5558, F-69622 Villeurbanne, France; Lyon immunopathology FEderation (LIFE), Hospices Civils de Lyon, F-69003 Lyon, France
| | - Sabine Mainbourg
- Service de médecine interne et vasculaire, Centre Hospitalier Lyon Sud, Hospices Civils de Lyon, F-69495 Pierre-Bénite, France; Université de Lyon, Université Lyon 1, CNRS, Laboratoire de Biométrie et Biologie Evolutive UMR 5558, F-69622 Villeurbanne, France; Lyon immunopathology FEderation (LIFE), Hospices Civils de Lyon, F-69003 Lyon, France.
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[Glucocorticoids in the treatment of giant cell arteritis : How much, how long and how to spare?]. Z Rheumatol 2021; 80:322-331. [PMID: 33710440 DOI: 10.1007/s00393-021-00975-8] [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: 12/20/2020] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Treatment of giant cell arteritis (GCA) with high-dose glucocorticoids (GC) regularly leads to a control of the inflammatory activity, so that high-dose GC is still the recommended standard treatment in the current guidelines; however, after discontinuation of GC treatment or reduction of the GC dosage, relapses occur in up to 70% of patients in the further course of the disease, making it necessary to resume treatment or increase the dosage. As a consequence many patients therefore have to be treated with GC often in high doses over several years, which results in a high cumulative exposure to GC. The risk for GC-associated diseases, such as diabetes, glaucoma, osteoporosis or severe infections is therefore significantly increased for patients with giant cell arteritis. For patients with GC-associated comorbidities or increased risk of developing them or patients with a relapse, the current guidelines therefore recommend GC-sparing treatment with tocilizumab or alternatively methotrexate. It is currently unclear over what period of time patients should be treated with GC and GC-sparing treatment, since high-quality study data on de-escalation strategies for GCA are currently still lacking. Decisions on treatment duration and intensity must therefore be made individually for each patient, taking into account general and patient-specific risk factors for a GC-dependent course, GCA-associated vascular damage (stenoses, aneurysms, visual loss) and treatment-associated complications.
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15
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Palmowski A, Buttgereit F. Reducing the Toxicity of Long-Term Glucocorticoid Treatment in Large Vessel Vasculitis. Curr Rheumatol Rep 2020; 22:85. [PMID: 33047263 PMCID: PMC7550368 DOI: 10.1007/s11926-020-00961-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Purpose While glucocorticoids (GCs) are effective in large vessel vasculitis (LVV), they may cause serious adverse events (AEs), especially if taken for longer durations and at higher doses. Unfortunately, patients suffering from LVV often need long-term treatment with GCs; therefore, toxicity needs to be expected and countered. Recent Findings GCs remain the mainstay of therapy for both giant cell arteritis and Takayasu arteritis. In order to minimize their toxicity, the following strategies should be considered: GC tapering, administration of conventional synthetic (e.g., methotrexate) or biologic (e.g., tocilizumab) GC-sparing agents, as well as monitoring, prophylaxis, and treatment of GC-related AEs. Several drugs are currently under investigation to expand the armamentarium for the treatment of LVV. Summary GC treatment in LVV is effective but associated with toxicity. Strategies to minimize this toxicity should be applied when treating patients suffering from LVV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andriko Palmowski
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Frank Buttgereit
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany.
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16
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The effect of a nurse-led prednisolone tapering regimen in polymyalgia rheumatica: a retrospective cohort study. Rheumatol Int 2020; 41:605-610. [PMID: 32696323 DOI: 10.1007/s00296-020-04654-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 07/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
The objective of this study is to investigate the efficacy of a nurse-led prednisolone tapering regime in patients with polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) compared to standard care. It is a single-center retrospective cohort study evaluating dose and percentage of patients receiving prednisolone after 1 and 2 years. A nurse-led PMR clinic was introduced June 2015 and patients diagnosed until June 2017 were included. Patients were diagnosed by a rheumatologist, and subsequently managed by nurses according to a specific protocol. Patients diagnosed with PMR between June 2012 and June 2015 served as controls. They received standard care by a rheumatologist. Sixty-eight patients received standard care and 107 nurse-led care. After 1 year, 71% of patients receiving standard care vs. 64% receiving nurse-led care took prednisolone (p = 0.441). Median (interquartile range) prednisolone dose after 1 year was 3.75 mg (0-5) in the standard care group and 1.25 mg (0-3.75) in the nurse-led care group (p = 0.004). After 2 years, 41% of patients receiving standard care vs. 18% receiving nurse-led care took prednisolone (p = 0.003). Prednisolone dose after 2 years was 0 mg (0-2.5) in the standard care group and 0 mg (0-0) in the nurse-led care group (p = 0.004). There was no difference regarding relapse and initiation of methotrexate. The number of patient contacts was 12.5 (5-16.5) in the standard care group vs. 17 (13-23) in the nurse-led care group (p = 0.001). A tight and systematic approach to prednisolone tapering is more effective than standard care, but more frequent patient contacts were necessary to obtain this effect.
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17
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Usefulness of Methotrexate in the Reduction of Relapses and Recurrences in Polymyalgia Rheumatica. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 26:S213-S217. [DOI: 10.1097/rhu.0000000000001414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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18
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Mainbourg S, Addario A, Samson M, Puéchal X, François M, Durupt S, Gueyffier F, Cucherat M, Durieu I, Reynaud Q, Lega J. Prevalence of Giant Cell Arteritis Relapse in Patients Treated With Glucocorticoids: A Meta‐Analysis. Arthritis Care Res (Hoboken) 2020; 72:838-849. [DOI: 10.1002/acr.23901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2019] [Accepted: 04/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sabine Mainbourg
- University of Lyon and Claude Bernard University Lyon, Centre Hospitalier Lyon Sud, and Hospices Civils de Lyon, Pierre‐Bénite Lyon France
| | | | - Maxime Samson
- CHU Dijon Bourgogne and Hôpital François Mitterrand Dijon France
| | - Xavier Puéchal
- National Referral Center for Rare Systemic and Autoimmune DiseasesHôpital CochinAP‐HPParis Descartes University Paris France
| | - Mathilde François
- University of Lyon and Claude Bernard University Lyon, Centre Hospitalier Lyon Sud, and Hospices Civils de Lyon, Pierre‐Bénite Lyon France
| | - Stéphane Durupt
- University of Lyon and Claude Bernard University Lyon Lyon France
| | | | - Michel Cucherat
- University of Lyon and Claude Bernard University Lyon Lyon France
| | - Isabelle Durieu
- University of Lyon and Claude Bernard University Lyon, Centre Hospitalier Lyon Sud, and Hospices Civils de Lyon, Pierre‐Bénite Lyon France
| | - Quitterie Reynaud
- University of Lyon and Claude Bernard University Lyon, Centre Hospitalier Lyon Sud, and Hospices Civils de Lyon, Pierre‐Bénite Lyon France
| | - Jean‐Christophe Lega
- University of Lyon and Claude Bernard University Lyon, Centre Hospitalier Lyon Sud, and Hospices Civils de Lyon, Pierre‐Bénite Lyon France
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19
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Campbell AM, Martin JR, Erstad BL. Corticosteroid Tapering Regimens in Rheumatic Disease: A Systematic Review. J Clin Rheumatol 2020; 26:41-47. [PMID: 32073513 DOI: 10.1097/rhu.0000000000000917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE Corticosteroids have long been used to effectively treat rheumatic disorders, but adverse effects associated with extended-duration regimens generate disagreement among clinicians regarding optimal tapering strategies. The objective of this systematic review was to assess clinical outcomes of differing tapering regimens after corticosteroid monotherapy in adults with rheumatic disorders. METHODS A systematic review of Medline/PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, International Pharmaceutical Abstracts, Web of Science, Scopus, Global Index Medicus, American College of Rheumatology, gray literature, and reference lists up to June 27, 2018, was conducted by 2 authors. Randomized controlled trials, case-control studies, and prospective observational studies comparing at least 2 tapering strategies of medium- to high-dose (>7.5 mg but ≤100 mg oral prednisone equivalent daily), extended-duration (≥10 days) corticosteroids were included if they reported at least 1 efficacy and 1 adverse effect parameter. RESULTS Two studies met criteria for the review, which included 62 patients. One study examined a prednisolone versus a modified release prednisone taper for giant cell arteritis and suggested 80% (n = 4) and 85.7% (n = 6) remission rates, respectively, at 26 weeks. The other study examined a methylprednisolone versus a prednisone taper for polymyalgia rheumatica and reported 100% and 89% remission rates, respectively, at 26 weeks. Adverse effects reported between the 2 studies included sleep, hyperglycemia, infection, and fractures. However, the studies were not powered to detect differences in these outcomes. CONCLUSIONS There is no high-level evidence to guide tapering until discontinuation after extended courses of medium- to high-dose treatment regimens, as current guidelines rely heavily on expert opinion and small case series with a trial-and-error approach. This review supports the need for additional research to shift tapering recommendations to a more evidence-based practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley M Campbell
- From the Department of Pharmacy Practice and Science, College of Pharmacy, University of Arizona
| | - Jennifer R Martin
- From the Department of Pharmacy Practice and Science, College of Pharmacy, University of Arizona
- Arizona Health Sciences Library, Tucson, AZ
| | - Brian L Erstad
- From the Department of Pharmacy Practice and Science, College of Pharmacy, University of Arizona
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20
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Mackie SL, Dejaco C, Appenzeller S, Camellino D, Duftner C, Gonzalez-Chiappe S, Mahr A, Mukhtyar C, Reynolds G, de Souza AWS, Brouwer E, Bukhari M, Buttgereit F, Byrne D, Cid MC, Cimmino M, Direskeneli H, Gilbert K, Kermani TA, Khan A, Lanyon P, Luqmani R, Mallen C, Mason JC, Matteson EL, Merkel PA, Mollan S, Neill L, Sullivan EO, Sandovici M, Schmidt WA, Watts R, Whitlock M, Yacyshyn E, Ytterberg S, Dasgupta B. British Society for Rheumatology guideline on diagnosis and treatment of giant cell arteritis. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2020; 59:e1-e23. [DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/kez672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2019] [Revised: 12/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah L Mackie
- Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine, University of Leeds, UK
- NIHR Leeds Biomedical Research Centre, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Leeds, UK
| | - Christian Dejaco
- Rheumatology, Medical University Graz, Graz, Austria
- South Tyrol Health Trust, Department of Rheumtaology, Hospital of Bruneck, Bruneck, Italy
| | - Simone Appenzeller
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medicine, University of Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Dario Camellino
- Division of Rheumatology, La Colletta Hospital, Local Health Trust 3 Genoa
- Autoimmunology Laboratory, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | | | | | - Alfred Mahr
- Internal Medicine, Hôpital Saint-Louis, University Paris Diderot, Paris, France
| | - Chetan Mukhtyar
- Department of Rheumatology, Norfolk and Norwich University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Norwich
| | | | - Alexandre Wagner S de Souza
- Rheumatology Division, Universidade Federal de Sao Paulo Escola Paulista de Medicina (UNIFESP-EPM), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Elisabeth Brouwer
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Marwan Bukhari
- Rheumatology, University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Foundation Trust, Kendal, Cumbria, UK
| | - Frank Buttgereit
- Department of Medicine (Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology), Charité University Medicine, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Maria C Cid
- Hospital Clinic de Barcelona, Universitat de Barcelona, Institut d’Investigacions, Biomèdiques, August Pi I, Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marco Cimmino
- Dipartimento di Medicina Interna, Università degli Studi di Genova, Genoa, Italy
| | - Haner Direskeneli
- Rheumatology, School of Medicine, Marmara University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | | | | | - Asad Khan
- Rheumatology, Solihull Hospital, University Hospitals Birmingham, Birmingham
| | - Peter Lanyon
- Academic Rheumatology, Nottingham University Hospitals, Nottingham
| | - Raashid Luqmani
- Nuffield Orthopaedic Centre – Rheumatology, University of Oxford, Oxford
| | - Christian Mallen
- School of Primary, Community and Social Care, Keele University, Staffordshire
| | | | - Eric L Matteson
- Division of Rheumatology and Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, MN
| | - Peter A Merkel
- Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Susan Mollan
- Birmingham Neuro-Ophthalmology Unit, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham
| | | | - Eoin O’ Sullivan
- Department of Ophthalmology, King’s College Hospital, London, UK
| | - Maria Sandovici
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Wolfgang A Schmidt
- Medical Centre for Rheumatology Berlin-Buch, Immanuel Hospital Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Richard Watts
- Rheumatology, Ipswich Hospital, Ipswich, UK
- University of East Anglia, Ipswich
| | - Madeline Whitlock
- Rheumatology, Southend University NHS Foundation Trust, Westcliff-on-Sea, Essex, UK
| | - Elaine Yacyshyn
- Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Steven Ytterberg
- Department of Rheumatology, Mayo Clinic of Medicine and Science, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Bhaskar Dasgupta
- Department of Rheumatology, Southend University NHS Foundation Trust, Westcliff-on-Sea, Essex, UK
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21
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Treat to Target: A Valid Concept for Management of Polymyalgia Rheumatica and Giant Cell Arteritis? Rheum Dis Clin North Am 2019; 45:549-567. [PMID: 31564296 DOI: 10.1016/j.rdc.2019.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Giant cell arteritis (GCA) and polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) are common inflammatory diseases of the elderly. They have variable clinical courses and are usually treated with glucocorticoids (GCs). Relapses are frequent in both conditions. Physicians should balance the tradeoff of treatment-related adverse events and risk of relapse. The ultimate goal of treatment is control of the disease while maintaining patient well-being. A treat-to-target approach may achieve the aim of controlling inflammation and preserving patient's functioning and quality of life, and would require pursuit and evaluation of clinical, laboratory, imaging, and structural targets to tackle the different manifestations of GCA and PMR.
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22
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Leung JL, Owen CE, Buchanan RRC, Liew DFL. Management of polymyalgia rheumatica in older people. JOURNAL OF PHARMACY PRACTICE AND RESEARCH 2019. [DOI: 10.1002/jppr.1610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica L. Leung
- Department of Rheumatology Austin Health Melbourne Australia
- The University of Melbourne Melbourne Australia
| | - Claire E. Owen
- Department of Rheumatology Austin Health Melbourne Australia
- The University of Melbourne Melbourne Australia
| | - Russell R. C. Buchanan
- Department of Rheumatology Austin Health Melbourne Australia
- The University of Melbourne Melbourne Australia
| | - David F. L. Liew
- Department of Rheumatology Austin Health Melbourne Australia
- The University of Melbourne Melbourne Australia
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics Austin Health Melbourne Australia
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23
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Monti S, Águeda AF, Luqmani RA, Buttgereit F, Cid M, Dejaco C, Mahr A, Ponte C, Salvarani C, Schmidt W, Hellmich B. Systematic literature review informing the 2018 update of the EULAR recommendation for the management of large vessel vasculitis: focus on giant cell arteritis. RMD Open 2019; 5:e001003. [PMID: 31673411 PMCID: PMC6803016 DOI: 10.1136/rmdopen-2019-001003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2019] [Revised: 08/10/2019] [Accepted: 08/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives To analyse the current evidence for the management of large vessel vasculitis (LVV) to inform the 2018 update of the EULAR recommendations. Methods Two systematic literature reviews (SLRs) dealing with diagnosis/monitoring and treatment strategies for LVV, respectively, were performed. Medline, Embase and Cochrane databases were searched from inception to 31 December 2017. Evidence on imaging was excluded as recently published in dedicated EULAR recommendations. This paper focuses on the data relevant to giant cell arteritis (GCA). Results We identified 287 eligible articles (122 studies focused on diagnosis/monitoring, 165 on treatment). The implementation of a fast-track approach to diagnosis significantly lowers the risk of permanent visual loss compared with historical cohorts (level of evidence, LoE 2b). Reliable diagnostic or prognostic biomarkers for GCA are still not available (LoE 3b).The SLR confirms the efficacy of prompt initiation of glucocorticoids (GC). There is no high-quality evidence on the most appropriate starting dose, route of administration, tapering and duration of GC (LoE 4). Patients with GCA are at increased risk of dose-dependent GC-related adverse events (LoE 3b). The addition of methotrexate or tocilizumab reduces relapse rates and GC requirements (LoE 1b). There is no consistent evidence that initiating antiplatelet agents at diagnosis would prevent future ischaemic events (LoE 2a). There is little evidence to guide monitoring of patients with GCA. Conclusions Results from two SLRs identified novel evidence on the management of GCA to guide the 2018 update of the EULAR recommendations on the management of LVV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Monti
- Rheumatology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy.,PhD in Experimental Medicine, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Ana F Águeda
- Rheumatology, Baixo Vouga Hospital Centre Agueda Unit, Agueda, Portugal
| | - Raashid Ahmed Luqmani
- Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Frank Buttgereit
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charite University Hospital Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Maria Cid
- Vasculitis Research Unit, Hospital Clinic; Institute d'Investiacions Biomèdiques August pi I Sunyer, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Christian Dejaco
- Rheumatology; South Tyrol Health Trust, Gesundheitsbezirk Bruneck, Brunico, Italy.,Rheumatology, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Alfred Mahr
- Internal Medicine, Université Paris Diderot Institut Saint Louis, Paris, France
| | - Cristina Ponte
- Rheumatology, Hospital de Santa Marta, Lisboa, Portugal.,Rheumatology Research Unit, University of Lisbon Institute of Molecular Medicine, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Carlo Salvarani
- Rheumatology, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Wolfgang Schmidt
- Klinik für Innere Medizin, Rheumatologie und Klinische Immunologie Berlin-Buch, Immanuel Krankenhaus Berlin Standort Berlin-Wannsee, Berlin, Germany
| | - Bernhard Hellmich
- Klinik für Innere Medizin, Rheumatologie und Immunologie, Vaskulitis-Zentrum Süd, Medius Kliniken, Universitatsklinikum Tubingen, Tubingen, Germany
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24
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Hellmich B, Agueda A, Monti S, Buttgereit F, de Boysson H, Brouwer E, Cassie R, Cid MC, Dasgupta B, Dejaco C, Hatemi G, Hollinger N, Mahr A, Mollan SP, Mukhtyar C, Ponte C, Salvarani C, Sivakumar R, Tian X, Tomasson G, Turesson C, Schmidt W, Villiger PM, Watts R, Young C, Luqmani RA. 2018 Update of the EULAR recommendations for the management of large vessel vasculitis. Ann Rheum Dis 2019; 79:19-30. [PMID: 31270110 DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2019-215672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 555] [Impact Index Per Article: 111.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2019] [Revised: 06/10/2019] [Accepted: 06/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since the publication of the European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) recommendations for the management of large vessel vasculitis (LVV) in 2009, several relevant randomised clinical trials and cohort analyses have been published, which have the potential to change clinical care and therefore supporting the need to update the original recommendations. METHODS Using EULAR standardised operating procedures for EULAR-endorsed recommendations, the EULAR task force undertook a systematic literature review and sought opinion from 20 experts from 13 countries. We modified existing recommendations and created new recommendations. RESULTS Three overarching principles and 10 recommendations were formulated. We recommend that a suspected diagnosis of LVV should be confirmed by imaging or histology. High dose glucocorticoid therapy (40-60 mg/day prednisone-equivalent) should be initiated immediately for induction of remission in active giant cell arteritis (GCA) or Takayasu arteritis (TAK). We recommend adjunctive therapy in selected patients with GCA (refractory or relapsing disease, presence of an increased risk for glucocorticoid-related adverse events or complications) using tocilizumab. Methotrexate may be used as an alternative. Non-biological glucocorticoid-sparing agents should be given in combination with glucocorticoids in all patients with TAK and biological agents may be used in refractory or relapsing patients. We no longer recommend the routine use of antiplatelet or anticoagulant therapy for treatment of LVV unless it is indicated for other reasons. CONCLUSIONS We have updated the recommendations for the management of LVV to facilitate the translation of current scientific evidence and expert opinion into better management and improved outcome of patients in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernhard Hellmich
- Department of Internal Medicine, Rheumatology and Immunology, Medius Kliniken, University of Tübingen, Kirchheim-Teck, Germany
| | - Ana Agueda
- Rheumatology Department, Centro Hospitalar do Baixo Vouga E.P.E, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Sara Monti
- Rheumatology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Frank Buttgereit
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, University Hospital Charité, Berlin, Germany
| | - Hubert de Boysson
- Internal Medicine, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Caen, Caen, Basse-Normandie, France
| | - Elisabeth Brouwer
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, UMCG, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | | | - Maria C Cid
- Department of Autoimmune Diseases, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi I Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Christian Dejaco
- Rheumatology, Medical University Graz, Graz, Austria.,Rheumatology, Hospital of Bruneck, Bruneck, Italy
| | - Gulen Hatemi
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Istanbul University Cerrahpasa Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Nicole Hollinger
- Department of Internal Medicine, Rheumatology and Immunology, Medus Klinken, Karl-Albrechts-Universität Tübingen, Kirchheim-Teck, Germany
| | - Alfred Mahr
- Hospital Saint-Louis, University Paris Diderot, Paris, France
| | - Susan P Mollan
- Ophthalmology, University Hospitals Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.,Neurometabolism, Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Chetan Mukhtyar
- Rheumatology, Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital, Norwich, UK
| | - Cristina Ponte
- Rheumatology, Hospital de Santa Maria - CHLN, Lisbon Academic Medical Centre, Lisbon, Portugal.,Rheumatology Research Unit; Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Lisboa, Portugal
| | | | - Rajappa Sivakumar
- Stroke and Neurocritical Care, GLB Hospitals and Acute Stroke Centers, Chennai, India
| | - Xinping Tian
- Rheumatology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China
| | | | - Carl Turesson
- Department of Rheumatology, Skåne University Hospital, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Wolfgang Schmidt
- Medical Centre for Rheumatology Berlin-Buch, Immanuel Krankenhaus Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Peter M Villiger
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology / Allerg, University Hospital (Inselspital), Bern, Switzerland
| | - Richard Watts
- Norwich Medical School, Bob Champion Research and Education Building, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
| | | | - Raashid Ahmed Luqmani
- Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Science (NDORMs), University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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25
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Ninan JV, Lester S, Hill CL. Giant cell arteritis: beyond temporal artery biopsy and steroids. Intern Med J 2018; 47:1228-1240. [PMID: 28485026 DOI: 10.1111/imj.13483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2017] [Revised: 04/25/2017] [Accepted: 04/30/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Giant cell arteritis is the most common primary vasculitis of the elderly. The acute complications of untreated giant cell arteritis, such as vision loss or occasionally stroke, can be devastating. The diagnosis is, however, not altogether straightforward due to variable sensitivities of the temporal artery biopsy as a reference diagnostic test. In this review, we discuss the increasing role of imaging in the diagnosis of giant cell arteritis. Glucocorticoid treatment is the backbone of therapy, but it is associated with significant adverse effects. A less toxic alternative is required. Conventional and novel immunosuppressive agents have only demonstrated modest effects in a subgroup of steroid refractory Giant cell arteritis due to the different arms of the immune system at play. However, recently a study of interleukin-6 blockade demonstrated benefits of giant cell arteritis. The current status of these immunosuppressive agents and novel therapies are also discussed in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jem V Ninan
- Department of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.,Rheumatology Unit, Modbury Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Susan Lester
- Department of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.,Rheumatology Unit, The Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Catherine L Hill
- Department of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.,Rheumatology Unit, The Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.,Rheumatology Unit, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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26
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Ninan JV, Lester S, Hill CL. Diagnosis and management of giant cell arteritis: an Asia-Pacific perspective. Int J Rheum Dis 2018; 22 Suppl 1:28-40. [PMID: 29667308 DOI: 10.1111/1756-185x.13297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Giant cell arteritis is the commonest primary vasculitis of the elderly. However, the prevalence does vary widely between populations with highest incidence amongst Northern Europeans and lowest amongst East Asians. Preliminary studies suggest that clinical manifestations may differ between different populations. Newer diagnostic approaches including ultrasound, MR angiography and PET imaging are under review. While there have been recent advances in the diagnosis of GCA particularly with regard to imaging, there is an urgent need for improvements in methods of diagnosis, treatment and requirement for screening. Glucocorticoid treatment remain the backbone of therapy. However, glucocorticoid therapy is associated with significant adverse effects. Conventional and novel immunosuppressive agents have only demonstrated modest effects in a subgroup of steroid refractory GCA due to the different arms of the immune system at play. However, recently a study of IL-6 blockade demonstrated benefit in GCA. Newer approaches such as fast-track pathways can also result in improvements in consequences of GCA including blindness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jem V Ninan
- Rheumatology Unit, Modbury Hospital, Modbury, South Australia, Australia.,Department of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Susan Lester
- Department of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.,Rheumatology Unit, The Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Woodville, South Australia, Australia
| | - Catherine L Hill
- Department of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.,Rheumatology Unit, The Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Woodville, South Australia, Australia.,Rheumatology Unit, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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27
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Giant Cell Arteritis: Current and Future Treatment Options. CURRENT TREATMENT OPTIONS IN RHEUMATOLOGY 2017. [DOI: 10.1007/s40674-017-0071-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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28
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29
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Matteson EL, Buttgereit F, Dejaco C, Dasgupta B. Glucocorticoids for Management of Polymyalgia Rheumatica and Giant Cell Arteritis. Rheum Dis Clin North Am 2016; 42:75-90, viii. [PMID: 26611552 DOI: 10.1016/j.rdc.2015.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Diagnosis of polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) and giant cell arteritis (GCA) is based on typical clinical, histologic, and laboratory features. Ultrasonographic imaging in PMR with assessment especially of subdeltoid bursitis can aid in diagnosis and in following response to treatment. In GCA, diagnosis and disease activity are supported with ultrasonographic, MRI, or [(18)F]fluorodeoxyglucose PET evaluation of large vessels. Glucocorticoids are the primary therapy for PMR and GCA. Methotrexate may be used in patients at high risk for glucocorticoid adverse effects and patients with frequent relapse or needing protracted therapy. Other therapeutic approaches including interleukin 6 antagonists are under evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric L Matteson
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, 200 1st Street Southwest, Rochester, MN 55902, USA; Division of Epidemiology, Department of Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, 200 1st Street Southwest, Rochester, MN 55902, USA.
| | - Frank Buttgereit
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité University Medicine, Charitéplatz 1, Berlin 10117, Germany
| | - Christian Dejaco
- Department of Rheumatology, Medical University Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 15, Graz 8036, Austria; Department of Immunology, Medical University Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 15, Graz 8036, Austria
| | - Bhaskar Dasgupta
- Department of Rheumatology, Southend University Hospital, Prittlewell Chase, Westcliff, Essex SS0-0RY, UK
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30
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31
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Abstract
Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is the most common vasculitis of the elderly. The diagnosis can be challenging at times because of the limitation of the American Rheumatology Association (ARA) classification criteria and the significant proportion of biopsy-negative patients with GCA. We discuss the role of advanced imaging techniques, including positron emission tomography (PET) scanning, in establishing diagnosis and improved histopathology techniques to improve the sensitivity of temporal artery biopsy. There have been significant advances in the understanding of the pathogenesis of GCA, particularly the role of cytokine pathways such as the interleukins, IL-6-IL-17 axis, and the IL-12-interferon-γ axis and their implication for new therapies. We highlight that glucocorticoids remain the primary treatment for GCA, but recognize the risk of steroid-induced side effects. A number of pharmacotherapies to enable glucocorticoid dose reduction and prevent relapse have been studied. Early diagnosis and fast-track pathways have improved outcomes by encouraging adherence to evidence-based practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jem Ninan
- Rheumatology Unit, Modbury Hospital, Modbury, South Australia, Australia
| | - Susan Lester
- Rheumatology Unit, The Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Woodville, South Australia, Australia; Department of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Catherine Hill
- Rheumatology Unit, The Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Woodville, South Australia, Australia; Department of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia; Rheumatology Unit, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, Australia.
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Dejaco C, Singh YP, Perel P, Hutchings A, Camellino D, Mackie S, Abril A, Bachta A, Balint P, Barraclough K, Bianconi L, Buttgereit F, Carsons S, Ching D, Cid M, Cimmino M, Diamantopoulos A, Docken W, Duftner C, Fashanu B, Gilbert K, Hildreth P, Hollywood J, Jayne D, Lima M, Maharaj A, Mallen C, Martinez-Taboada V, Maz M, Merry S, Miller J, Mori S, Neill L, Nordborg E, Nott J, Padbury H, Pease C, Salvarani C, Schirmer M, Schmidt W, Spiera R, Tronnier D, Wagner A, Whitlock M, Matteson EL, Dasgupta B. 2015 recommendations for the management of polymyalgia rheumatica: a European League Against Rheumatism/American College of Rheumatology collaborative initiative. Arthritis Rheumatol 2016; 67:2569-80. [PMID: 26352874 DOI: 10.1002/art.39333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2015] [Accepted: 07/13/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Therapy for polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) varies widely in clinical practice as international recommendations for PMR treatment are not currently available. In this paper, we report the 2015 European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR)/American College of Rheumatology (ACR) recommendations for the management of PMR. We used the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) methodology as a framework for the project. Accordingly, the direction and strength of the recommendations are based on the quality of evidence, the balance between desirable and undesirable effects, patients' and clinicians' values and preferences, and resource use. Eight overarching principles and nine specific recommendations were developed covering several aspects of PMR, including basic and follow-up investigations of patients under treatment, risk factor assessment, medical access for patients and specialist referral, treatment strategies such as initial glucocorticoid (GC) doses and subsequent tapering regimens, use of intramuscular GCs and disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs), as well as the roles of non-steroidal anti-rheumatic drugs and non-pharmacological interventions. These recommendations will inform primary, secondary and tertiary care physicians about an international consensus on the management of PMR. These recommendations should serve to inform clinicians about best practices in the care of patients with PMR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Dejaco
- Medical University Graz, Department of Rheumatology, Graz, Austria, and Southend University Hospital, Department of Rheumatology, Essex, UK
| | - Yogesh P Singh
- Southend University Hospital, Department of Rheumatology, Essex, UK
| | - Pablo Perel
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Epidemiology and Population Health Faculty, London, UK
| | - Andrew Hutchings
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Department of Health Services Research and Policy, London, UK
| | - Dario Camellino
- University of Genoa, Department of Internal Medicine, Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Genoa, Italy
| | - Sarah Mackie
- University of Leeds, NIHR Leeds Musculoskeletal Biomedical Research Unit, and Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine, Leeds, UK
| | - Andy Abril
- Mayo Clinic, Department of Rheumatology, Jacksonville, Florida
| | - Artur Bachta
- Military Institute of Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine and Rheumatology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Peter Balint
- National Institute of Rheumatology and Physiotherapy, 3rd Rheumatology Department, Budapest, Hungary
| | | | | | - Frank Buttgereit
- Charité University Medicine, Department of Rheumatology, Berlin, Germany
| | - Steven Carsons
- Stony Brook University School of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Immunology, Winthrop-University Hospital Campus, Mineola, New York
| | - Daniel Ching
- Timaru Hospital, Department of Rheumatology, Timaru, New Zealand
| | - Maria Cid
- University of Barcelona Hospital Clinic, Department of Systemic Autoimmune Diseases, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marco Cimmino
- University of Genoa, Department of Internal Medicine, Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Genoa, Italy
| | | | - William Docken
- Brigham and Women's Hospital, Division of Rheumatology, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Christina Duftner
- Medical University of Innsbruck, Department of Internal Medicine-Clinic VI, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Billy Fashanu
- Southend University Hospital, Department of Rheumatology, Essex, UK
| | - Kate Gilbert
- patient representatives from Polymyalgia Rheumatica and Giant Cell Arteritis UK, London, UK
| | - Pamela Hildreth
- patient representatives from Polymyalgia Rheumatica and Giant Cell Arteritis UK, London, UK
| | - Jane Hollywood
- Southend University Hospital, Department of Rheumatology, Essex, UK
| | - David Jayne
- University of Cambridge, Department of Medicine, Cambridge, UK
| | - Manuella Lima
- Hospital Universitário Pedro Ernesto, Department of Rheumatology, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Ajesh Maharaj
- University of Kwa Zulu Natal, Prince Mshiyeni Memorial Hospital, Nelson R. Mandela School of Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Durban, South Africa
| | - Christian Mallen
- Keele University, Arthritis Research UK Primary Care Centre, Keele, UK
| | - Victor Martinez-Taboada
- Universidad de Cantabria, Hospital Universitario Marqués de Valdecilla, Facultad de Medicina, Servicio de Reumatología, Santander, Spain
| | - Mehrdad Maz
- University of Kansas Medical Center, Department of Medicine, Division of Allergy, Clinical Immunology, and Rheumatology, Kansas City
| | - Steven Merry
- Mayo Clinic, Department of Family Medicine, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Jean Miller
- patient representatives from Polymyalgia Rheumatica and Giant Cell Arteritis UK, London, UK
| | - Shunsuke Mori
- NHO Kumamoto Saishunsou National Hospital, Department of Rheumatology, Clinical Research Center for Rheumatic Diseases, Kohshi, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Lorna Neill
- patient representatives from Polymyalgia Rheumatica and Giant Cell Arteritis UK, London, UK
| | - Elisabeth Nordborg
- Sahlgren University Hospital, Department of Rheumatology, Göteborg, Sweden
| | - Jennifer Nott
- patient representatives from Polymyalgia Rheumatica and Giant Cell Arteritis UK, London, UK
| | - Hannah Padbury
- patient representatives from Polymyalgia Rheumatica and Giant Cell Arteritis UK, London, UK
| | - Colin Pease
- University of Leeds, NIHR Leeds Musculoskeletal Biomedical Research Unit, and Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine, Leeds, UK
| | - Carlo Salvarani
- Azienda Ospedaliera-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Michael Schirmer
- Medical University of Innsbruck, Department of Internal Medicine-Clinic VI, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Wolfgang Schmidt
- Immanuel Krankenhaus Berlin and Medical Center for Rheumatology Berlin-Buch, Berlin, Germany
| | - Robert Spiera
- Hospital for Special Surgery, Department of Medicine, New York, New York
| | - David Tronnier
- patient representative from the Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Alexandre Wagner
- Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Department of Internal Medicine, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Eric L Matteson
- Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Department of Health Sciences Research, Division of Rheumatology, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Bhaskar Dasgupta
- Southend University Hospital, Department of Rheumatology, Essex, UK
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Dejaco C, Singh YP, Perel P, Hutchings A, Camellino D, Mackie S, Matteson EL, Dasgupta B. Current evidence for therapeutic interventions and prognostic factors in polymyalgia rheumatica: a systematic literature review informing the 2015 European League Against Rheumatism/American College of Rheumatology recommendations for the management of polymyalgia rheumatica. Ann Rheum Dis 2015; 74:1808-17. [DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2015-207578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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Dejaco C, Singh YP, Perel P, Hutchings A, Camellino D, Mackie S, Abril A, Bachta A, Balint P, Barraclough K, Bianconi L, Buttgereit F, Carsons S, Ching D, Cid M, Cimmino M, Diamantopoulos A, Docken W, Duftner C, Fashanu B, Gilbert K, Hildreth P, Hollywood J, Jayne D, Lima M, Maharaj A, Mallen C, Martinez-Taboada V, Maz M, Merry S, Miller J, Mori S, Neill L, Nordborg E, Nott J, Padbury H, Pease C, Salvarani C, Schirmer M, Schmidt W, Spiera R, Tronnier D, Wagner A, Whitlock M, Matteson EL, Dasgupta B. 2015 Recommendations for the management of polymyalgia rheumatica: a European League Against Rheumatism/American College of Rheumatology collaborative initiative. Ann Rheum Dis 2015; 74:1799-807. [DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2015-207492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 152] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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Alba MA, García-Martínez A, Prieto-González S, Tavera-Bahillo I, Corbera-Bellalta M, Planas-Rigol E, Espígol-Frigolé G, Butjosa M, Hernández-Rodríguez J, Cid MC. Relapses in patients with giant cell arteritis: prevalence, characteristics, and associated clinical findings in a longitudinally followed cohort of 106 patients. Medicine (Baltimore) 2014; 93:194-201. [PMID: 25181312 PMCID: PMC4602452 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000000033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 131] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is a relapsing disease. However, the nature, chronology, therapeutic impact, and clinical consequences of relapses have been scarcely addressed. We conducted the present study to investigate the prevalence, timing, and characteristics of relapses in patients with GCA and to analyze whether a relapsing course is associated with disease-related complications, increased glucocorticoid (GC) doses, and GC-related adverse effects. The study cohort included 106 patients, longitudinally followed by the authors for 7.8 ± 3.3 years. Relapses were defined as reappearance of disease-related symptoms requiring treatment adjustment. Relapses were classified into 4 categories: polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR), cranial symptoms (including ischemic complications), systemic disease, or symptomatic large vessel involvement. Cumulated GC dose during the first year of treatment, time required to achieve a maintenance prednisone dose <10 mg/d (T10), <5 mg/d (T5), or complete prednisone discontinuation (T0), and GC-related side effects were recorded. Sixty-eight patients (64%) experienced at least 1 relapse, and 38 (36%) experienced 2 or more. First relapse consisted of PMR in 51%, cranial symptoms in 31%, and systemic complaints in 18%. Relapses appeared predominantly, but not exclusively, within the first 2 years of treatment, and only 1 patient developed visual loss. T10, T5, and T0 were significantly longer in patients with relapses than in patients without relapse (median, 40 vs 27 wk, p < 0.0001; 163 vs 89.5 wk, p = 0.004; and 340 vs 190 wk, p = 0.001, respectively). Cumulated prednisone dose during the first year was significantly higher in relapsing patients (6.2 ± 1.7 g vs 5.4 ± 0.78 g, p = 0.015). Osteoporosis was more common in patients with relapses compared to those without (65% vs 32%, p = 0.001). In conclusion, the results of the present study provide evidence that a relapsing course is associated with higher and prolonged GC requirements and a higher frequency of osteoporosis in GCA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco A Alba
- Vasculitis Research Unit (MAA, AG-M, SP-G, IT-B, MC-B, EP-R, GE-F, MB, JH-R, MCC), Department of Autoimmune Diseases, Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
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Mori S, Koga Y. Glucocorticoid-resistant polymyalgia rheumatica: pretreatment characteristics and tocilizumab therapy. Clin Rheumatol 2014; 35:1367-75. [PMID: 24803231 PMCID: PMC4844628 DOI: 10.1007/s10067-014-2650-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2014] [Revised: 04/24/2014] [Accepted: 04/25/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Treatment with glucocorticoid (GC) is the preferred therapy for polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR), but some patients show poor responses to the initial GC regimen or experience flares on GC tapering. Alternative therapies for patients with GC resistance have not yet been established. To evaluate pretreatment characteristics and therapeutic outcomes of GC-resistant PMR, we followed all patients who had been diagnosed with PMR between October 2007 and February 2013, according to our standardized protocol. GC-resistant patients were defined as those who had responded poorly to the initial GC regimen (15 mg/day of prednisolone) or those who had responded to the initial regimen but had experienced a flare upon GC tapering to 5 mg/day of the maintenance dose or within the first 6 months of maintenance therapy. Out of 23 patients, nine were found to be GC-resistant cases and the others were GC responders. Baseline values of PMR activity score and its components, especially the ability to elevate the upper limbs (EUL), were significantly higher in GC-resistant patients compared with GC responders. The additional use of methotrexate (MTX, five cases), salazosulfapyridine (one case), and tocilizumab (TCZ, three cases) was effective for GC-resistant patients, although 13 to 39 weeks were required for the achievement of remission. We report the three GC-resistant cases in which TCZ was added to GC therapy with or without MTX. We also review the medical literature on the use of TCZ as of January 31, 2014 and discuss the utility of TCZ in the treatment of GC-resistant PMR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shunsuke Mori
- Department of Rheumatology, Clinical Research Center for Rheumatic Disease, NHO Kumamoto Saishunsou National Hospital, 2659 Suya, Kohshi, Kumamoto, 861-1196, Japan.
| | - Yukinori Koga
- Department of Radiology, Clinical Research Center for Rheumatic Disease, NHO Kumamoto Saishunsou National Hospital, Kumamoto, Japan
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Soriano A, Landolfi R, Manna R. Polymyalgia rheumatica in 2011. Best Pract Res Clin Rheumatol 2013; 26:91-104. [PMID: 22424196 DOI: 10.1016/j.berh.2012.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2011] [Revised: 01/03/2012] [Accepted: 01/04/2012] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) is an inflammatory rheumatic disease that commonly affects individuals over 50 years of age, characterised by pain and morning stiffness of the shoulder and pelvic girdle. PMR can present as 'isolated' form or may be associated with giant cell arteritis. The progress of imaging techniques has helped in understanding different clinical patterns: subclinical vasculitis can occur in at least one-third of PMR patients, causing ischaemic complications. It is considered a polygenic disease and environmental factors may play a role in its pathogenesis, such as viral or bacterial triggers, both in the 'wide' form or assembled with adjuvants in vaccines. The response to steroid therapy is generally dramatic and side effects may occur, as well as the development of glucocorticoid resistance. The optimisation of therapy may require steroid-sparing agents as well as modified-release prednisone as 'nighttime' replacement therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Soriano
- Clinical Autoimmunity Unit - Periodic Fever Research Centre, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, L.go F. Vito N1, 00168 Rome, Italy
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Abstract
Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) and giant cell arteritis (GCA) are inflammatory diseases that typically affect white individuals >50 years. Women are affected ∼2-3 times more often than men. PMR and GCA occur together more frequently than expected by chance. The main symptoms of PMR are pain and stiffness in the shoulders, and often in the neck and pelvic girdle. Imaging studies reveal inflammation of joints and bursae of the affected areas. GCA is a large-vessel and medium-vessel arteritis predominantly involving the branches of the aortic arch. The typical clinical manifestations of GCA are new headache, jaw claudication and visual loss. PMR and GCA usually remit within 6 months to 2 years from disease onset. Some patients, however, have a relapsing course and might require long-standing treatment. Diagnosis of PMR and GCA is based on clinical features and elevated levels of inflammatory markers. Temporal artery biopsy remains the gold standard to support the diagnosis of GCA; imaging studies are useful to delineate large-vessel involvement in GCA. Glucocorticoids remain the cornerstone of treatment of both PMR and GCA, but patients with GCA require higher doses. Synthetic immunosuppressive drugs also have a role in disease management, whereas the role of biologic agents is currently unclear.
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Kennedy S. Polymyalgia rheumatica and giant cell arteritis: an in-depth look at diagnosis and treatment. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012; 24:277-85. [PMID: 22551331 DOI: 10.1111/j.1745-7599.2012.00717.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To provide an in-depth synthesis of the literature on polymyalgia rheumatic (PMR) and giant cell arteritis (GCA) that will assist the primary care nurse practitioner (NP) in recognizing the variety of symptom presentations, accurately evaluating laboratory data, developing a plan of care that includes current treatment guidelines, and adroitly managing patients for improved outcomes. DATA SOURCES A thorough search of the literature was conducted including MEDLINE, CIHAHL, and PubMed encompassing the decades from the 1970s to the present. CONCLUSIONS Because of the varied and vague symptom presentations of PMR and GCA, primary healthcare providers often misdiagnose these pathologies, delaying treatment and relief of suffering. Textbooks descriptions often omit supplemental content necessary to understand the intricacies of the presenting symptoms, diagnostic tests needed for work-up, and specific treatment for these overlapping pathologies. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE Because PMR and GCA often present in the primary care setting, NPs must maintain a high index of suspicion when a patient over 60 years of age presents with vague complaints such as headache, weakness, anorexia, and malaise. Arriving at an accurate diagnosis in a timely fashion will lead to appropriate treatment and minimize patient suffering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sally Kennedy
- College of Nursing, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina 29425, USA.
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Schmidt J, Warrington KJ. Polymyalgia rheumatica and giant cell arteritis in older patients: diagnosis and pharmacological management. Drugs Aging 2012; 28:651-66. [PMID: 21812500 DOI: 10.2165/11592500-000000000-00000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is an inflammatory vasculopathy that involves large- and medium-sized arteries and can cause vision loss, stroke and aneurysms. GCA occurs in people aged >50 years and is more common in women. A higher incidence of the disease is observed in populations from Northern European countries. Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) is a periarticular inflammatory process manifesting as pain and stiffness in the neck, shoulders and pelvic girdle. PMR shares the same pattern of age and sex distribution as GCA. The pathophysiology of PMR and GCA is not completely understood, but the two conditions may be related and often occur concurrently. A delay in the diagnosis should be avoided because of the risk of vascular ischaemic complications due to GCA. The diagnosis should be considered in patients aged >50 years presenting with symptoms such as new headache, visual disturbances, jaw claudication or symptoms of PMR. GCA can also present as a systemic inflammatory syndrome with fever of unknown origin. Marked elevation of acute-phase reactants, recognizable in higher erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, is often seen in both PMR and GCA. However, some patients can present with a normal ESR. Confirmation of the diagnosis of GCA by temporal artery biopsy is important because clinical findings and laboratory tests are not specific, and because a diagnosis of GCA commits patients to long-term treatment with corticosteroids. The role of imaging techniques for the diagnosis of GCA remains unclear, but these modalities can be helpful in assessing the extent of vascular involvement, especially when extra-cranial disease is present. In PMR, subdeltoid and subacromial bursitis can be identified by imaging techniques, especially ultrasound or MRI. The clinical manifestations of GCA and PMR respond dramatically within 12-48 hours of starting corticosteroid treatment. The initial corticosteroid dosage commonly used in GCA is oral prednisone 40-60 mg/day, and for patients with PMR a dosage of 15-20 mg/day is often sufficient. A prolonged course of treatment is necessary, and corticosteroids are gradually tapered, guided by regular clinical evaluation and ESR (and/or CRP) measurement. Methotrexate is the best studied corticosteroid-sparing agent in GCA, and may be useful for patients with frequent disease relapses and/or corticosteroid-related toxicity. Retrospective studies favour aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) as an effective adjuvant treatment for reducing the ischaemic complications of GCA. The long-term course of corticosteroid therapy frequently exposes elderly patients with PMR/GCA to various adverse effects, which can be attenuated with appropriate prophylactic measures. Co-morbid diseases and polypharmacy can pose particular challenges in the geriatric population. In general, the life expectancy of patients with GCA does not appear to be shortened, whereas the morbidity associated with the disease and its treatment is well recognized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean Schmidt
- Department of Internal Medicine and RECIF, Amiens University Hospital, France
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Cimmino MA, Parodi M, Montecucco C, Caporali R. The correct prednisone starting dose in polymyalgia rheumatica is related to body weight but not to disease severity. BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2011; 12:94. [PMID: 21569559 PMCID: PMC3114801 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2474-12-94] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2011] [Accepted: 05/14/2011] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background the mainstay of treatment of polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) is oral glucocorticoids, but randomized controlled trials of treatment are lacking. As a result, there is no evidence from controlled studies on the efficacy of different initial doses or glucocorticoid tapering. The aim of this study is to test if 12.5 mg prednisone/day is an adequate starting dose in PMR and to evaluate clinical predictors of drug response. Methods 60 consecutive PMR patients were treated with a starting dose of 12,5 mg/day prednisone. Clinical, laboratory, and, in a subset of 25 patients, ultrasonographic features were recorded as possible predictors of response to prednisone. Remission was defined as disappearance of at least 75% of the signs and symptoms of PMR and normalization of ESR and CRP within the first month, a scenario allowing steroid tapering. Results 47/60 (78.3%) patients responded to 12.5 mg of prednisone after a mean interval of 6.6 ± 5.2 days. In univariate analysis, body weight and gender discriminated the two groups. In multivariate analysis, the only factor predicting a good response was low weight (p = 0.004); the higher response rate observed in women was explained by their lower weight. The mean prednisone dose per kg in the responders was 0.19 ± 0.03 mg in comparison with 0.16 ± 0.03 mg for non responders (p = 0.007). Conclusions 12.5 mg prednisone is a sufficient starting dose in ¾ of PMR patients. The main factor driving response to prednisone in PMR was weight, a finding that could help in the clinical care of PMR patients and in designing prospective studies of treatment. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01169597
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco A Cimmino
- Clinica Reumatologica, Dipartimento di Medicina Interna, Università di Genova, Viale Benedetto XV, 6, 16132 Genova, Italy.
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Study of professional practices among rheumatologists in Burgundy: initial corticotherapy in polymyalgia rheumatica. Clin Rheumatol 2010; 30:51-6. [DOI: 10.1007/s10067-010-1619-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2010] [Revised: 10/13/2010] [Accepted: 10/31/2010] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Gonzalez-Gay MA, Agudo M, Martinez-Dubois C, Pompei O, Blanco R. Medical management of polymyalgia rheumatica. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2010; 11:1077-87. [DOI: 10.1517/14656561003724739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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Balsalobre Aznar J, Porta-Etessam J. Temporal Arteritis: Treatment Controversies. NEUROLOGÍA (ENGLISH EDITION) 2010. [DOI: 10.1016/s2173-5808(10)70083-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022] Open
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Glucocorticoids remain the mainstay of treatment of giant cell arteritis. The aim of this review is to establish the optimal schedule of glucocorticoid administration, and to ascertain which other treatments may be used as glucocorticoid-sparing agents. RECENT FINDINGS An initial dose of 40-60 mg/day of prednisone is usually adequate. Patients at risk of developing ischemic complications require dosages of around 1 mg/kg/day, whereas pulse glucocorticoid therapy is no more effective in preventing ischemic complications. In patients with longstanding disease or those at risk for glucocorticoid-related adverse events, methotrexate or azathioprine can be used as glucocorticoid-sparing drugs. Infliximab has been demonstrated to be efficacious in glucocorticoid-resistant disease in an open study, whereas a randomized controlled trial showed no efficacy in patients with recent-onset disease. Finally, two retrospective studies suggest that low-dose aspirin may decrease the rate of cranial ischemic complications secondary to giant cell arteritis. SUMMARY Glucocorticoids remain the cornerstone of therapy for giant cell arteritis. To achieve maximal efficacy but minimize glucocorticoid-related adverse reactions, dosage should be individually tailored. In patients with longstanding, recalcitrant disease, methotrexate, azathioprine or tumor necrosis factor-alpha inhibitors may be considered. Aspirin is recommended in all patients unless contraindicated. Osteoporosis prophylaxis should also be regularly implemented.
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Melby SJ, Thompson RW. Diseases of the Great Vessels and the Thoracic Outlet. Surgery 2008. [DOI: 10.1007/978-0-387-68113-9_65] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Hoes JN, Jacobs JWG, Boers M, Boumpas D, Buttgereit F, Caeyers N, Choy EH, Cutolo M, Da Silva JAP, Esselens G, Guillevin L, Hafstrom I, Kirwan JR, Rovensky J, Russell A, Saag KG, Svensson B, Westhovens R, Zeidler H, Bijlsma JWJ. EULAR evidence-based recommendations on the management of systemic glucocorticoid therapy in rheumatic diseases. Ann Rheum Dis 2007; 66:1560-7. [PMID: 17660219 PMCID: PMC2095301 DOI: 10.1136/ard.2007.072157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 249] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/22/2007] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To develop evidence-based recommendations for the management of systemic glucocorticoid (GC) therapy in rheumatic diseases. METHODS The multidisciplinary guideline development group from 11 European countries, Canada and the USA consisted of 15 rheumatologists, 1 internist, 1 rheumatologist-epidemiologist, 1 health professional, 1 patient and 1 research fellow. The Delphi method was used to agree on 10 key propositions related to the safe use of GCs. A systematic literature search of PUBMED, EMBASE, CINAHL, and Cochrane Library was then used to identify the best available research evidence to support each of the 10 propositions. The strength of recommendation was given according to research evidence, clinical expertise and perceived patient preference. RESULTS The 10 propositions were generated through three Delphi rounds and included patient education, risk factors, adverse effects, concomitant therapy (ie, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, gastroprotection and cyclo-oxygenase-2 selective inhibitors, calcium and vitamin D, bisphosphonates) and special safety advice (ie, adrenal insufficiency, pregnancy, growth impairment). CONCLUSION Ten key recommendations for the management of systemic GC-therapy were formulated using a combination of systematically retrieved research evidence and expert consensus. There are areas of importance that have little evidence (ie, dosing and tapering strategies, timing, risk factors and monitoring for adverse effects, perioperative GC-replacement) and need further research; therefore also a research agenda was composed.
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Affiliation(s)
- J N Hoes
- Department of Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology (F02.127), University Medical Center Utrecht, Heidelberglaan 100, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands.
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Loddenkemper T, Sharma P, Katzan I, Plant GT. Risk factors for early visual deterioration in temporal arteritis. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 2007; 78:1255-9. [PMID: 17504884 PMCID: PMC2117585 DOI: 10.1136/jnnp.2006.113787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2006] [Revised: 04/07/2007] [Accepted: 04/12/2007] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite corticosteroid treatment, patients with temporal arteritis may continue to lose vision. However, predictors of progressive visual loss are not known. METHODS We retrospectively reviewed 341 consecutive patients with suspected temporal arteritis who underwent temporal artery biopsy. 90 patients with biopsy proven temporal arteritis were included in our study. RESULTS Twenty-one patients (23%) experienced continuous visual symptoms despite steroid therapy and 14 among these suffered persistent visual deterioration. Based on univariate analysis, visual loss on presentation was associated with disc swelling and a history of hypertension. Risk factors for progressive visual loss included older age, elevated C reactive protein and disc swelling. CONCLUSION Although corticosteroid therapy improves the visual prognosis in temporal arteritis, steroids may not stop the progression of visual loss. Our study reliably establishes the risk factors for visual loss in this serious condition. Whether addressing these risk factors early in their presentation can alter the visual outcome remains unknown. Individual risk anticipating treatment regimens and strategies might improve the visual prognosis in temporal arteritis in the future.
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Gómez-Calcerrada Berrocal D, Campuzano Adán L. Polimialgia reumática: otra causa de dolor en el anciano. Semergen 2006. [DOI: 10.1016/s1138-3593(06)73329-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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