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Diekhoff T, Giraudo C, Machado PM, Mallinson M, Eshed I, Haibel H, Hermann KG, de Hooge M, Jans L, Jurik AG, Lambert RG, Maksymowych W, Marzo-Ortega H, Navarro-Compán V, Østergaard M, Pedersen SJ, Reijnierse M, Rudwaleit M, Sommerfleck FA, Weber U, Baraliakos X, Poddubnyy D. Clinical information on imaging referrals for suspected or known axial spondyloarthritis: recommendations from the Assessment of Spondyloarthritis International Society (ASAS). Ann Rheum Dis 2024:ard-2024-226280. [PMID: 39317418 DOI: 10.1136/ard-2024-226280] [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: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 09/08/2024] [Indexed: 09/26/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aims to establish expert consensus recommendations for clinical information on imaging requests in suspected/known axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA), focusing on enhancing diagnostic clarity and patient care through guidelines. MATERIALS AND METHODS A specialised task force was formed, comprising 7 radiologists, 11 rheumatologists from the Assessment of Spondyloarthritis International Society (ASAS) and a patient representative. Using the Delphi method, two rounds of surveys were conducted among ASAS members. These surveys aimed to identify critical elements for imaging referrals and to refine these elements for practical application. The task force deliberated on the survey outcomes and proposed a set of recommendations, which were then presented to the ASAS community for a decisive vote. RESULTS The collaborative effort resulted in a set of six detailed recommendations for clinicians involved in requesting imaging for patients with suspected or known axSpA. These recommendations cover crucial areas, including clinical features indicative of axSpA, clinical features, mechanical factors, past imaging data, potential contraindications for specific imaging modalities or contrast media and detailed reasons for the examination, including differential diagnoses. Garnering support from 73% of voting ASAS members, these recommendations represent a consensus on optimising imaging request protocols in axSpA. CONCLUSION The ASAS recommendations offer comprehensive guidance for rheumatologists in requesting imaging for axSpA, aiming to standardise requesting practices. By improving the precision and relevance of imaging requests, these guidelines should enhance the clinical impact of radiology reports, facilitate accurate diagnosis and consequently improve the management of patients with axSpA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Torsten Diekhoff
- Department of Radiology, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Chiara Giraudo
- Department of Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Pedro M Machado
- Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, University College London, London, UK
- University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | | | - Iris Eshed
- Radiology, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel
| | - Hildrun Haibel
- Med. Dep I, Rheumatology, Charité University, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Manouk de Hooge
- VIB Center of Inflammation Research, Ghent University, Gent, Belgium
| | - Lennart Jans
- Radiology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Anne Grethe Jurik
- Department of Radiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Robert Gw Lambert
- Radiology and Diagnostic Imaging, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | | | - Helena Marzo-Ortega
- Section of Musculoskeletal Disease, Leeds Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | | | - Mikkel Østergaard
- Copenhagen Center for Arthritis Research, Center for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases, Rigshospitalet Glostrup, Glostrup, Denmark
| | - Susanne Juhl Pedersen
- Department of Rheumatology, Copenhagen University Hospital Glostrup, Glostrup, Denmark
- Copenhagen Center for Arthritis Research, Glostrup, Denmark
| | | | - Martin Rudwaleit
- Internal Medicine and Rheumatology, Klinikum Bielefeld Rosenhöhe, Bielefeld, Germany
| | | | - Ulrich Weber
- Rheumatology, Practice Zenit, Schaffhausen, Switzerland
| | | | - Denis Poddubnyy
- Department of Gastroenterology, Infectious Diseases and Rheumatology (including Nutrition Medicine), Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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Pereira GC, Machado NP, Gomes AF, Assad RL, Carneiro FH, Azevedo VF. Sacroiliac and spine imaging in spondyloarthritis: Does phenotype or sex matter? Adv Rheumatol 2024; 64:68. [PMID: 39256831 DOI: 10.1186/s42358-024-00411-w] [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: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2024] [Indexed: 09/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spondyloarthritis (SpA) encompasses a spectrum of immune-mediated inflammatory conditions primarily affecting the axial skeleton, including sacroiliitis and spondylitis, each with distinct features. This study aimed to investigate imaging disparities, focusing on sacroiliac magnetic resonance and spine radiography, across phenotypes and between males and females in axial SpA. METHOD A cross-sectional study was conducted to assess clinical data, laboratory findings, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scores of sacroiliac joints using the Spondyloarthritis Research Consortium of Canada (SPARCC) and Sacroiliac Joint Structural Score (SSS), and cervical and lumbar spine radiographs utilizing the Modified Stoke Ankylosing Spondylitis Spine Score (mSASSS). The study aimed to compare these parameters between two groups: axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA, radiographic and non-radiographic) and axial psoriatic arthritis (axPsA), as well as between males and females. RESULTS Ninety-four patients were included, with 62 patients in the axSpA group and 32 patients in the axPsA group. There were no differences in disease activity, mobility, radiographic damage in the spine (Modified Stoke Ankylosing Spondylitis Spine Score- mSASSS), or sacroiliac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scores (Spondyloarthritis Research Consortium of Canada Magnetic Resonance Imaging Index - SPARCC and Sacroiliac Joint Structural Score - SSS) between the two phenotypes. Regarding sex, in imaging exams, men had higher mSASSS (p = 0.008), SSS (p = 0.001), and fat metaplasia (MG) score based on SSS (p = 0.001), while women had significantly higher SPARCC scores (p = 0.039). In the male group, the presence of HLA-B27 allele had an impact on more structural lesions on MRI (SSS), p = 0.013. CONCLUSION In this study, imaging of sacroiliac joints and spine in patients with axial SpA did not show differences in phenotypes but did reveal differences based on sex, which may have an impact on future diagnostic recommendations. Further studies are needed to confirm these findings.
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Garcia-Salinas R, Reyes Jara G, Arguello J, Ruta S, Almada F, Aguerre D. Clinical, Laboratory, and Imaging Features Between Men and Women With Axial Spondyloarthritis in a Specialized Center in Argentina. J Clin Rheumatol 2024; 30:e105-e107. [PMID: 38509033 DOI: 10.1097/rhu.0000000000002063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aims were to estimate the frequency of axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) in women and to analyze the clinical, laboratory, and imaging differences with respect to men at the time of diagnosis. METHODS Consecutive patients older than 18 years with a diagnosis of axSpA admitted to the "Reumacheck" SpA program were included between 2017 and 2022. At baseline, all patients underwent clinical assessment, laboratory tests including C-reactive protein and human leukocyte antigen B27, and imaging (plain radiography and magnetic resonance imaging of sacroiliac joints, and ultrasound of heel entheses). All evaluators were blinded to the results of the other evaluations. RESULTS One hundred sixteen patients with a diagnosis of axSpA were included. The frequency at diagnosis in women was 61.55%. In the univariate analysis, the significant differences between women and men at diagnosis of axSpA were good response to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, elevated C-reactive protein, New York Criteria (+), enthesis ultrasound (+), years of education, number of swollen joints, erythrosedimentation rate, and the very low frequency of bone bridges in the magnetic resonance imaging of the sacroiliac joints. In the logistic regression analysis, the dependent variable was "men," and the only feature that was independently associated was having radiographic compromise according to the New York criteria (odds ratio, 2.6). CONCLUSIONS The frequency of axSpA in women was 61.55%; clinical, laboratory, and imaging differences were observed. Women experienced less radiographic compromise.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Dario Aguerre
- Radiology Unit, Hospital Italiano de La Plata, La Plata, Argentina
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Marques ML, Ramiro S, van Lunteren M, Stal RA, Landewé RB, van de Sande M, Fagerli KM, Berg IJ, van Oosterhout M, Exarchou S, Ramonda R, van der Heijde D, van Gaalen FA. Can rheumatologists unequivocally diagnose axial spondyloarthritis in patients with chronic back pain of less than 2 years duration? Primary outcome of the 2-year SPondyloArthritis Caught Early (SPACE) cohort. Ann Rheum Dis 2024; 83:589-598. [PMID: 38233104 DOI: 10.1136/ard-2023-224959] [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: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate the prevalence of axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) in patients with chronic back pain (CBP) of less than 2 years (2y) duration referred to the rheumatologist, the development of diagnosis over time, and patient characteristics of those developing definite (d-)axSpA over 2y. METHODS We analysed the 2y data from SPondyloArthritis Caught Early, a European cohort of patients (<45 years) with CBP (≥3 months, ≤2y) of unknown origin. The diagnostic workup comprised evaluation of clinical SpA features, acute phase reactants, HLA-B27, radiographs and MRI (sacroiliac joints and spine), with repeated assessments. At each visit (baseline, 3 months, 1y and 2y), rheumatologists reported a diagnosis of axSpA or non-axSpA with level of confidence (LoC; 0-not confident at all to 10-very confident). MAIN OUTCOME axSpA diagnosis with LoC≥7 (d-axSpA) at 2y. RESULTS In 552 patients with CBP, d-axSpA was diagnosed in 175 (32%) at baseline and 165 (30%) at 2y. Baseline diagnosis remained rather stable: at 2y, baseline d-axSpA was revised in 5% of patients, while 8% 'gained' d-axSpA. Diagnostic uncertainty persisted in 30%. HLA-B27+ and baseline sacroiliitis imaging discriminated best 2y-d-axSpA versus 2y-d-non-axSpA patients. Good response to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and MRI-sacroiliitis most frequently developed over follow-up in patients with a new d-axSpA diagnosis. Of the patients who developed MRI-sacroiliitis, 7/8 were HLA-B27+ and 5/8 male. CONCLUSION A diagnosis of d-axSpA can be reliably made in nearly one-third of patients with CBP referred to the rheumatologist, but diagnostic uncertainty may persist in 5%-30% after 2y. Repeated assessments yield is modest, but repeating MRI may be worthwhile in male HLA-B27+ patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Lucy Marques
- Rheumatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Zuid-Holland, Netherlands
- Rheumatology, Centro Hospitalar e Universitario de Coimbra EPE, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Sofia Ramiro
- Rheumatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Zuid-Holland, Netherlands
- Rheumatology, Zuyderland Medical Centre Heerlen, Heerlen, Limburg, Netherlands
| | - Miranda van Lunteren
- Rheumatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Zuid-Holland, Netherlands
| | - Rosalinde Anne Stal
- Rheumatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Zuid-Holland, Netherlands
| | - Robert Bm Landewé
- Rheumatology, Zuyderland Medical Centre Heerlen, Heerlen, Limburg, Netherlands
- Department of Rheumatology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Marleen van de Sande
- Department of Rheumatology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Karen Minde Fagerli
- Center for Treatment of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Diseases (REMEDY), Diakonhjemmet Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Inger Jorid Berg
- Center for Treatment of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Diseases (REMEDY), Diakonhjemmet Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Sofia Exarchou
- Department of Clinical Sciences Malmö, Rheumatology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Roberta Ramonda
- Rheumatology Unit, Padua University Hospital, Padova, Veneto, Italy
| | | | - Floris A van Gaalen
- Rheumatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Zuid-Holland, Netherlands
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Braun J, Rudwaleit M, Sieper J. [The role of HLA-B27 in the pathogenesis and diagnosis of axial spondyloarthritis : 50 years after discovery of the strong genetic association]. Z Rheumatol 2024; 83:125-133. [PMID: 38112753 DOI: 10.1007/s00393-023-01460-0] [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] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The association of the human lymphocyte antigen B27 (HLA-B27) with ankylosing spondylitis (AS), also now called axial spondylarthritis (axSpA), was first described 50 years ago. OBJECTIVE This article gives an overview of the available knowledge on the topic. MATERIAL AND METHODS This is a narrative review based on the experience of the authors. RESULTS The HLA-B27 is a member of the HLA class I family of genes of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC). The prevalence of HLA-B27 in the central European population is approximately 8 %, i.e., the vast majority of carriers of HLA-B27+ remain healthy. The frequency of HLA-B27 shows a decline from north to south. The HLA-B27 explains only 30 % of the genetic burden of axSpA. The prevalence of the disease correlates with the frequency of HLA-B27 in the population, i.e., there are geographic differences. Approximately 60-90 % of patients with axSpA worldwide are HLA-B27+. Some 200 subtypes of HLA-B27 can be differentiated using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR). In Thailand and Sardinia two subtypes were found that are not associated with axSpA. The physiological function of HLA class I molecules is the defence of the organism against microbes. Microbial peptides are presented to the immune system, which can be specifically attacked by CD8+ T‑cells. Genetic polymorphisms of the enzyme endoplasmic reticulum aminopeptidase 1 (ERAP1), which breaks down peptides in the endoplasmic reticulum, are associated only with HLA-B27+ diseases. DISCUSSION The pathogenesis of axSpA is unclear but a major hypothesis is that of the arthritogenic peptides. In this it is assumed that potentially pathogenic foreign or autologous peptides can be presented by HLA-B27. If nothing else, HLA-B27 plays an important role in the diagnosis, classification and determination of the severity of axSpA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jürgen Braun
- Rheumatologisches Versorgungszentrum Steglitz, Berlin, Deutschland.
- Ruhr Universität Bochum, Bochum, Deutschland.
- , Berlin, Deutschland.
| | - Martin Rudwaleit
- Klinikum Bielefeld, Universitätsklinikum OWL der Universität Bielefeld, Bielefeld, Deutschland
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Braun J. Why are the classification and diagnosis of axial spondyloarthritis sometimes so difficult? Rheumatology (Oxford) 2024; 63:264-266. [PMID: 37773984 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/kead532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Revised: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jürgen Braun
- Ruhr Universität Bochum, Rheumapraxis Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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Venerito V, Del Vescovo S, Lopalco G, Proft F. Beyond the horizon: Innovations and future directions in axial-spondyloarthritis. Arch Rheumatol 2023; 38:491-511. [PMID: 38125058 PMCID: PMC10728740 DOI: 10.46497/archrheumatol.2023.10580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the spine and sacroiliac joints. This review discusses recent advances across multiple scientific fields that promise to transform axSpA management. Traditionally, axSpA was considered an immune-mediated disease driven by human leukocyte antigen B27 (HLA-B27), interleukin (IL)-23/IL-17 signaling, biomechanics, and dysbiosis. Diagnosis relies on clinical features, laboratory tests, and imaging, particularly magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) nowadays. Management includes exercise, lifestyle changes, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and if this is not sufficient to achieve disease control also biological and targeted-synthetic disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs. Beyond long-recognized genetic risks like HLA-B27, high-throughput sequencing has revealed intricate gene-environment interactions influencing dysbiosis, immune dysfunction, and aberrant bone remodeling. Elucidating these mechanisms promises screening approaches to enable early intervention. Advanced imaging is revolutionizing the assessment of axSpA's hallmark: sacroiliac bone-marrow edema indicating inflammation. Novel magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques sensitively quantify disease activity, while machine learning automates complex analysis to improve diagnostic accuracy and monitoring. Hybrid imaging like synthetic MRI/computed tomography (CT) visualizes structural damage with new clarity. Meanwhile, microbiome analysis has uncovered gut ecosystem alterations that may initiate joint inflammation through HLA-B27 misfolding or immune subversion. Correcting dysbiosis represents an enticing treatment target. Moving forward, emerging techniques must augment patient care. Incorporating patient perspectives will be key to ensure innovations like genetics, microbiome, and imaging biomarkers translate into improved mobility, reduced pain, and increased quality of life. By integrating cutting-edge, multidisciplinary science with patients' lived experience, researchers can unlock the full potential of new technologies to deliver transformative outcomes. The future is bright for precision diagnosis, tightly controlled treatment, and even prevention of axSpA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo Venerito
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area (DiMePRe-J), Polyclinic Hospital, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Sergio Del Vescovo
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area (DiMePRe-J), Polyclinic Hospital, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Lopalco
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area (DiMePRe-J), Polyclinic Hospital, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Fabian Proft
- Department of Gastroenterology, Infectiology and Rheumatology (including Nutrition Medicine), Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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Unal Enginar A. A comparison of the clinical characteristics and quality of life of male and female patients with non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 123:110627. [PMID: 37494835 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.110627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2022] [Revised: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to compare the clinical characteristics and quality of life of male and female patients with non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis (nraxSpA) to determine the differences and similarities. PATIENTS AND METHODS The study included 100 patients, comprising 50 males and 50 females, aged 18-65 years, who presented at the Rheumatology Clinic and were diagnosed with nr-axSpA according to the Assessment of Spondyloarthritis International Society (ASAS) criteria. The data of patient age, gender, body mass index, disease duration, and drugs used were recorded. Disease activity was evaluated with the Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index (BASDAI), mobility with the Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Metrology Index (BASMI), functional status with the Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Functional Index (BASFI), enthesitis with the Maastricht Ankylosing Spondylitis Enthesitis Score (MASES), and quality of life with the Ankylosing Spondylitis Quality of Life (ASQoL). The patients with nr- axSpA were separated into groups as male and female, and the demographic and clinical data were compared. RESULTS The mean age of female patients was determined to be statistically significantly higher than that of the male patients (39.04 ± 0.70 vs. 34.28 ± 9.26 years, p:0.014). A statistically greater number of male patients were smokers (p:0.007). The disease duration and time since diagnosis were determined to be significantly longer in females than in males (p:0.029, p:0.004). Peripheral arthritis was determined at a significantly higher rate in females (p < 0.001). The MASES score was 2.66 ± 3.46 in females and 0.52 ± 1.03 in males, and the difference was statistically significant (p < 0.001). The BASDAI score was significantly higher in females (3.74 ± 2.35) than in males (2.88 ± 1.95) (p:0.05). No statistically significant difference was determined between the two groups in respect of BASFI, BASMI, ASQoL, and other parameters. CONCLUSION The results showed older age, longer disease duration and time to diagnosis, higher rates of peripheral arthritis, and higher MASES and BASDAI scores in the female patients. Thus, there are some differences between male and female patients. Further studies should determine what kind of changes these differences will make in the clinical status, follow-up and treatment of patients.
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Ulas ST, Proft F, Diekhoff T, Rios V, Rademacher J, Protopopov M, Greese J, Eshed I, Adams LC, Hermann KGA, Ohrndorf S, Poddubnyy D, Ziegeler K. Sex-specific diagnostic efficacy of MRI in axial spondyloarthritis: challenging the 'One Size Fits All' notion. RMD Open 2023; 9:e003252. [PMID: 37899091 PMCID: PMC10619004 DOI: 10.1136/rmdopen-2023-003252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Sex-specific differences in the presentation of axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) may contribute to a diagnostic delay in women. The aim of this study was to investigate the diagnostic performance of MRI findings comparing men and women. METHODS Patients with back pain from six different prospective cohorts (n=1194) were screened for inclusion in this post hoc analysis. Two blinded readers scored the MRI data sets independently for the presence of ankylosis, erosion, sclerosis, fat metaplasia and bone marrow oedema. Χ2 tests were performed to compare lesion frequencies. Contingency tables were used to calculate markers for diagnostic performance, with clinical diagnosis as the standard of reference. The positive and negative likelihood ratios (LR+/LR-) were used to calculate the diagnostic OR (DOR) to assess the diagnostic performance. RESULTS After application of exclusion criteria, 526 patients (379 axSpA (136 women and 243 men) and 147 controls with chronic low back pain) were included. No major sex-specific differences in the diagnostic performance were shown for bone marrow oedema (DOR m: 3.0; f: 3.9). Fat metaplasia showed a better diagnostic performance in men (DOR 37.9) than in women (DOR 5.0). Lower specificity was seen in women for erosions (77% vs 87%), sclerosis (44% vs 66%), fat metaplasia (87% vs 96%). CONCLUSION The diagnostic performance of structural MRI markers is substantially lower in female patients with axSpA; active inflammatory lesions show comparable performance in both sexes, while still overall inferior to structural markers. This leads to a comparably higher risk of false positive findings in women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sevtap Tugce Ulas
- Department of Radiology, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Fabian Proft
- Department of Gastroenterology, Infectiology and Rheumatology (including Nutrition Medicine), Charite Universitatsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Torsten Diekhoff
- Department of Radiology, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Valeria Rios
- Department of Gastroenterology, Infectiology and Rheumatology (including Nutrition Medicine), Charite Universitatsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Judith Rademacher
- Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Gastroenterology, Infectiology and Rheumatology (including Nutrition Medicine), Charite Universitatsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Mikhail Protopopov
- Department of Gastroenterology, Infectiology and Rheumatology (including Nutrition Medicine), Charite Universitatsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Juliane Greese
- Department of Radiology, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Iris Eshed
- Diagnostic Imaging, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel
- Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Lisa C Adams
- Department of Radiology, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
- Department of Radiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Kay Geert A Hermann
- Department of Radiology, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Sarah Ohrndorf
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Denis Poddubnyy
- Department of Gastroenterology, Infectiology and Rheumatology (including Nutrition Medicine), Charite Universitatsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Katharina Ziegeler
- Department of Radiology, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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Ulas ST, Proft F, Diekhoff T, Rios Rodriguez V, Rademacher J, Poddubnyy D, Ziegeler K. HLA-B27 status and inflammatory MRI lesions of the sacroiliac joints: a post hoc analysis in patients without axial spondyloarthritis. RMD Open 2023; 9:e003357. [PMID: 37739448 PMCID: PMC10533781 DOI: 10.1136/rmdopen-2023-003357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The assessment of inflammatory and structural lesions in the sacroiliac joint (SIJ) is crucial in axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA). HLA-B27 status plays an important role in axSpA diagnosis and has been linked to MRI lesion burden in the general population. We aimed to investigate the sex-specific influence of HLA-B27 status on inflammatory and structural MRI findings in patients with low back pain of non-inflammatory origin. METHODS This post hoc analysis included 139 non-axSpA patients (90 women) with chronic low back pain. Two readers scored MRIs of the SIJ for the presence of sclerosis, erosion, fat metaplasia, bone marrow oedema (BMO) and ankylosis. Frequencies and extent of lesions were compared regarding the HLA-B27 status using χ2 tests and t-tests. Regression models to assess the sex-dependent influence of HLA-B27 on lesion burden were computed. RESULTS HLA-B27 was positive in 33 women (36.7%) and 23 men (46.9%). The overall occurrence of all SIJ lesions did not differ in HLA-B27 negative and positive individuals. There were no significant differences in the extent of lesions considering the HLA-B27 positivity, for erosion (mean sum score (MSS) of 0.91 vs 0.48; p=0.144), sclerosis (MSS 1.65 vs 1.88; p=0.576), fat metaplasia (MSS 0.56 vs 0.27; p=0.425), BMO (MSS 0.75 vs 0.59; p=0.460) and ankylosis (MSS 0.06 vs 0.04; p=0.659). CONCLUSION HLA-B27 status has no significant influence on the occurrence and extent of SIJ lesions in patients with low back pain of non-inflammatory origin in either men or women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sevtap Tugce Ulas
- Department of Radiology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Berlin Institute of Health at Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Fabian Proft
- Department of Gastroenterology, Infectiology and Rheumatology (Including Nutrition Medicine), Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Torsten Diekhoff
- Department of Radiology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Berlin Institute of Health at Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Valeria Rios Rodriguez
- Department of Gastroenterology, Infectiology and Rheumatology (Including Nutrition Medicine), Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Judith Rademacher
- Berlin Institute of Health at Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Gastroenterology, Infectiology and Rheumatology (Including Nutrition Medicine), Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Denis Poddubnyy
- Department of Gastroenterology, Infectiology and Rheumatology (Including Nutrition Medicine), Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Katharina Ziegeler
- Department of Radiology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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Braun J, Sieper J. Fifty years after the discovery of the association of HLA B27 with ankylosing spondylitis. RMD Open 2023; 9:e003102. [PMID: 37652557 PMCID: PMC10476136 DOI: 10.1136/rmdopen-2023-003102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The human lymphocyte antigen B27 (HLA B27) is a member of the HLA class I family of genes in the major histocompatibility complex whose name goes back to its discovery in studies of transplanted tissue compatibility. Its prevalence in the mid-European population is about 8%. The association of HLA B27 alleles with ankylosing spondylitis (AS), a highly heritable disease, which is part of the spectrum of axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA), was discovered 50 years ago. HLA B27 explains less than 30% of the total genetic load. About 60%-90% of axSpA patients worldwide carry HLA B27. The prevalence of the disease is linked to the frequency of HLA B27 in the population which implies that there are relevant differences. Among the roughly 200 subtypes known there are two which are not disease associated. The function of HLA class I molecules is to present peptides to the immune system to defend the organism against microbes targeted by CD8+T cells. This is much supported by the role of the endoplasmic reticulum aminopeptidase 1 (ERAP 1) in AS, an enzyme that is responsible for the intracellular trimming of peptides, since polymorphisms of this gene are only associated with HLA-B27+ disease. The arthritogenic peptide hypothesis trying to explain the pathogenesis of AS is based on that very immune function assuming that also self peptides can be presented. HLA-B27 also plays an important role in classification, diagnosis and severitiy of axSpA.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Joachim Sieper
- Department of Rheumatology, Charite Universitatsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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Ziade N. Human leucocyte antigen-B27 testing in clinical practice: a global perspective. Curr Opin Rheumatol 2023; 35:235-242. [PMID: 37115941 DOI: 10.1097/bor.0000000000000946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/30/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The association between human leucocyte antigen (HLA)-B27 and spondyloarthritis (SpA) was described half a century ago. New insights about pathophysiologic pathways and their role in bone formation were reported in recent years and will be discussed in this review. RECENT FINDINGS There is a considerable variation in the association between HLA-B27 and SpA across the globe, with the strongest association reported in populations of Northern European and Asian descent and the lowest in the Middle East and Africa. Other genes are also involved in disease susceptibility, highlighting the importance of newly proposed weighted genetic scores to support the diagnosis. On the global level, the interaction between genetic background and gut dysbiosis seems critical for disease predisposition. As for the individual patient, the presence of HLA-B27 can have a significant influence on SpA diagnosis and disease phenotype. More importantly, new studies suggested a role for HLA-B27 in radiographic damage in the sacroiliac joints and the progression of bone formation in the spine. SUMMARY Findings in recent years have enhanced our understanding of the role of HLA-B27 in the pathophysiology and in disease-related bone formation in SpA, which may pave the way for new therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nelly Ziade
- Saint-Joseph University
- Hotel-Dieu de France Hospital, Beirut, Lebanon
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Ulas ST, Diekhoff T, Ziegeler K. Sex Disparities of the Sacroiliac Joint: Focus on Joint Anatomy and Imaging Appearance. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:diagnostics13040642. [PMID: 36832130 PMCID: PMC9955570 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13040642] [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: 12/31/2022] [Revised: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The sacroiliac joint (SIJ) is an anatomically complex joint which, as a functional unit with the pelvis and spine, is of decisive biomechanical importance for the human body. It is also a commonly overlooked source of lower back pain. Like the entire bony pelvis, the SIJ exhibits major sexual dimorphisms; thus, the sex-dependent evaluation of this joint is becoming increasingly important in clinical practice, both anatomically with joint shape variations and biomechanical differences as well as in terms of image appearance. The influence of the SIJ shape, which differs in women and men, is crucial for the different biomechanical joint properties. These differences are important in the development of joint diseases at the SIJ, which shows a specific difference between the sexes. This article aims to provide an overview of sex disparities of the SIJ regarding different anatomical and imaging appearances to further understand the insights into the interplay of sex differences and SIJ disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sevtap Tugce Ulas
- Department of Radiology, Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Mitte, Humboldt–Universität zu Berlin, Freie Universität Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- Berlin Institute of Health, Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +0049-30-450-627044
| | - Torsten Diekhoff
- Department of Radiology, Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Mitte, Humboldt–Universität zu Berlin, Freie Universität Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- Berlin Institute of Health, Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Katharina Ziegeler
- Department of Radiology, Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Mitte, Humboldt–Universität zu Berlin, Freie Universität Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
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