1
|
Corrado A, Mansueto N, Correale M, Rella V, Tricarico L, Altomare A, Brunetti ND, Cantatore FP, Rotondo C. Flow Mediated Dilation in Systemic Sclerosis: Association with clinical findings, capillaroscopic patterns and endothelial circulating markers. Vascul Pharmacol 2024; 154:107252. [PMID: 38061409 DOI: 10.1016/j.vph.2023.107252] [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: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 11/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
AIM Endothelial dysfunction represents a key feature of the pathological process underlying micro and macro-vascular damage in Systemic Sclerosis (SSc). This study aims to improve knowledge of the physiopathology of vascular damage in SSc through the assessment of the endothelial dysfunction by Flow Mediated Dilation (FMD) and serum levels of circulating endothelial dysfunction markers and the correlation of macrovascular damage with clinical findings and microvascular capillaroscopic patterns. METHODS 57 SSc patients and 37 healthy subjects were recruited. All included subjects underwent radial artery FMD test and Nailfold Video-Capillaroscopy; serum levels of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF), Vascular Cell Adhesion Molecule-1 (VCAM-1) and angiopoietin-2 were evaluated. RESULTS Compared to healthy subjects, in SSc patients lower FMD and higher time needed to obtain the maximal FMD responsewere observed, whereas serum levels of VEGF, VCAM-1, and angiopoietin-2 were significantly higher. The impairment of FMD values was associated with disease duration, pulmonary arterial hypertension, and digital ulcers and correlates with greater microvascular damage evaluated by Nailfold Video-Capillaroscopy… An inverse relationship between VEGF, angiopoietin-2, VCAM-1 levels and FMD was observed, but only VEGF and angiopoietin-2 were significantly higher in patients with digital ulcers and pulmonary arterial hypertension. CONCLUSIONS FMD ultrasound test and circulating levels of endothelial dysfuncion markers could be useful as biomarkers of vasculopathy and could be a helpful tool in the overall assessment of vascular injury in Systemic Sclerosis patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Addolorata Corrado
- Rheumatology Clinic, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, Viale Pinto 1, Foggia, Italy.
| | - Natalia Mansueto
- Rheumatology Clinic, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, Viale Pinto 1, Foggia, Italy
| | - Michele Correale
- Cardiology Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, Viale Pinto 1, Foggia, Italy
| | - Valeria Rella
- Rheumatology Clinic, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, Viale Pinto 1, Foggia, Italy
| | - Lucia Tricarico
- Cardiology Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, Viale Pinto 1, Foggia, Italy
| | - Alberto Altomare
- Rheumatology Clinic, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, Viale Pinto 1, Foggia, Italy
| | - Natale Daniele Brunetti
- Cardiology Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, Viale Pinto 1, Foggia, Italy
| | - Francesco Paolo Cantatore
- Rheumatology Clinic, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, Viale Pinto 1, Foggia, Italy
| | - Cinzia Rotondo
- Rheumatology Clinic, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, Viale Pinto 1, Foggia, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Mućka S, Miodońska M, Jakubiak GK, Starzak M, Cieślar G, Stanek A. Endothelial Function Assessment by Flow-Mediated Dilation Method: A Valuable Tool in the Evaluation of the Cardiovascular System. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph191811242. [PMID: 36141513 PMCID: PMC9517126 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191811242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Revised: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) in the course of atherosclerosis are one of the most critical public health problems in the world. Endothelial cells synthesize numerous biologically active substances involved in regulating the functions of the cardiovascular system. Endothelial dysfunction is an essential element in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. Thus, the assessment of endothelial function in people without overt CVD allows for a more accurate estimate of the risk of developing CVD and cardiovascular events. The assessment of endothelial function is primarily used in scientific research, and to a lesser extent in clinical practice. Among the tools for assessing endothelial function, we can distinguish biochemical and physical methods, while physical methods can be divided into invasive and non-invasive methods. Flow-mediated dilation (FMD) is based on the ultrasound assessment of changes in the diameter of the brachial artery as a result of increased blood flow. FMD is a non-invasive, safe, and repeatable test, but it must be performed by qualified and experienced medical staff. The purpose of this paper is to present the literature review results on the assessment of endothelial function using the FMD method, including its methodology, applications in clinical practice and research, limitations, and future perspectives.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Szymon Mućka
- Student Research Group, Department and Clinic of Internal Medicine, Angiology, and Physical Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, Batorego 15 St., 41-902 Bytom, Poland
| | - Martyna Miodońska
- Student Research Group, Department and Clinic of Internal Medicine, Angiology, and Physical Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, Batorego 15 St., 41-902 Bytom, Poland
| | - Grzegorz K. Jakubiak
- Department and Clinic of Internal Medicine, Angiology, and Physical Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, Batorego 15 St., 41-902 Bytom, Poland
- Correspondence: (G.K.J.); (A.S.)
| | - Monika Starzak
- Department and Clinic of Internal Medicine, Angiology, and Physical Medicine, Specialistic Hospital No. 2 in Bytom, Batorego 15 St., 41-902 Bytom, Poland
| | - Grzegorz Cieślar
- Department and Clinic of Internal Medicine, Angiology, and Physical Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, Batorego 15 St., 41-902 Bytom, Poland
| | - Agata Stanek
- Department and Clinic of Internal Medicine, Angiology, and Physical Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, Batorego 15 St., 41-902 Bytom, Poland
- Correspondence: (G.K.J.); (A.S.)
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Effect of vasodilator and immunosuppressive therapy on the endothelial dysfunction in patients with systemic sclerosis. Clin Exp Med 2022:10.1007/s10238-022-00845-w. [PMID: 35751732 DOI: 10.1007/s10238-022-00845-w] [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: 12/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
A comparative analysis of flow-mediated vasodilation (FMD), vasoactive angiogenic, and fibrogenic mediators between treatment-naive and treated systemic sclerosis (SSc) patients is an unmet need. (1)To assess the FMD and different pathogenic mediators in SSc patients about endothelial dysfunction. (2) To assess the proportion of circulating endothelial cells (CECs) in treatment-naïve patients. SSc patients were grouped into treatment-naïve (Group-I, n = 24) on vasodilator (Group-II, n = 10), on vasodilator + immunosuppressive (Group-III, n = 22)]. Age-sex matched healthy controls (n = 20) were included. Endothelial dysfunction (ED) was measured radiologically using FMD. Serum levels of NO, ET1, NO/ET1, sVCAM, sICAM, TGF, IL-6, and VEGF, as well as gene expressions of eNOS, iNOS, ET-1, and TGF, were measured to assess the status of ED in various study groups. CEC was measured in Group-I and HC. CEC was used as a marker to identify a key regulator of ED in SSc. FMD was significantly decreased in all SSc patients through receiving treatment. Upregulation of serum NO and ET concentrations was noted post-treatment with an unaltered NO/ET1 ratio. NO was positively correlated with FMD (r = 0.6) and negatively with TGFβ (r = - 0.5). ET-1 showed a negative correlation with TGFβ (r = - 0.5) but no significant correlation with FMD. Circulating endothelial cell (CEC) was significantly higher in Group-I (3.2%) than HC (0.8%) (p = 0.002), and it showed a good correlation with NO (r = - 0.7, p = 0.0001) and NO/ET1 (r = - 0.6, p = 0.007). Persistent ED was observed in all SSc patients irrespective of treatment. Dysbalance in NO/ET1 ratio might be the considering factor for the underlying progression of ED. Based on our findings, it may be hypothesized that reduced NO may be a contributing factor in the pathogenesis of endothelial dysfunction in SSc.
Collapse
|
4
|
Fathi HM, Fawzy MW, Aboul-Eyon II, Eldesouky ATH, Eesa NN. Value of nail fold video capillaroscopy and carotid intima media thickness in assessment of micro and macro-vascular disease in systemic sclerosis patients. THE EGYPTIAN RHEUMATOLOGIST 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejr.2021.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
|
5
|
Cardiovascular Organ Damage in Clinical Subtypes of Systemic Sclerosis: Arterial Stiffness and Echocardiography Might Not Be the Ideal Tools for Patient Risk Stratification. Cardiol Res Pract 2021; 2021:7915890. [PMID: 33976934 PMCID: PMC8087482 DOI: 10.1155/2021/7915890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2020] [Revised: 02/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Vascular damage is recognized as a diagnostic landmark in systemic sclerosis (SSc), both in its limited and diffuse subtypes. Early detection at a subclinical stage with transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) and carotid femoral pulse wave velocity (cfPWV) may be helpful in therapeutic planning and management. Aim of the Study. The aim of the study was to evaluate presence of subclinical cardiovascular damage in patients with limited and diffuse SSc in comparison with a cohort of healthy individuals. Methods Consecutive patients with limited and diffuse SSc underwent complete TTE and cfPWV and a complete review of clinical data. As controls, 23 healthy subjects with similar hemodynamic profiles were selected. Results 41 patients (35 female, aged 56.9 years), 21 with diffuse and 20 with limited SSc, were recruited. Past medical history, cardiovascular risk factors, gender distribution, and disease duration were similar in the two groups as well as TTE parameters and hemodynamic indexes—cfPWV (6.5 [6–6.8] vs. 7.0 [6.2–8.5], p=0.24) and augmentation index (145.6 ± 14.2 vs. 149 ± 20.6, p=0.52). Patients with limited SSc were 10 years older than patients with diffuse SSc. In the multiple regression analysis, only age (p=0.0154) and disease duration (p=0.0467) resulted as the significant determinant of cfPWV. When compared to healthy controls, no significant difference emerged in TTE or hemodynamic indexes. Conclusion In SSc, cfPWV increases with age, with no additional impact of pathology or subtype. Vascular damage in the SSc population is not accurately reflected in increased arterial stiffness, as evaluated with cfPWV, or classically defined echocardiographic findings of organ damage (i.e., left ventricular concentric remodelling and increased filling pressures).
Collapse
|
6
|
Imaging in Diagnosis of Systemic Sclerosis. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10020248. [PMID: 33445449 PMCID: PMC7827740 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10020248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2020] [Revised: 12/28/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a connective tissue disease characterized by fibrosis in skin and internal organs, progressive vascular obliteration, and the production of autoantibodies. Diagnostic imaging is irreplaceable in both diagnosing and monitoring patients suffering from systemic sclerosis. In addition to routinely used methods, such as comparative X-ray of the hands or a contrast-enhanced examination of the upper gastrointestinal tract or chest, there is an array of less widespread examinations, with an emphasis on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and ultrasonography, not only in the evaluation of the musculoskeletal system. This article will review the various imaging modalities available for SSc imaging and assessment, focusing on their utility as tissue-specific diagnosis and treatment monitoring.
Collapse
|
7
|
Ishide T, Nishi H, Ambe H, Honda K, Nakamura M, Sato J, Yamamoto K, Sato M, Nangaku M. Kidney failure after lung transplantation in systemic scleroderma: a case report with literature review. RENAL REPLACEMENT THERAPY 2020. [DOI: 10.1186/s41100-020-00293-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Systemic scleroderma (SSc) involves multiple organs including the skin, the lung, the kidney, and the esophagus. Nowadays, patient life prognosis has substantially improved due to more appropriate management of lung complications, including lung transplantation. However, the extension of their survival may increase SSc patients with chronic kidney diseases and requiring renal replacement therapy (RRT).
Case presentation
A 51-year-old female with SSc who underwent unilateral deceased-donor lung transplantation was referred because of progressive renal dysfunction. Despite no episodes of scleroderma renal crisis, her renal function gradually deteriorated for 2 years with her serum creatinine level increasing from 0.5 mg/dL at transplantation to 4.3 mg/dL. Although we reinforced antihypertensive treatment and reduced calcineurin inhibitor dose, she thereafter developed symptomatic uremia. Due to impaired manual dexterity with contracture of the interphalangeal joints, no caregivers at home, and kidney transplantation donor unavailability, maintenance hemodialysis was chosen as RRT modality. Further, due to the narrowing of superficial vessels in the sclerotic forearm skin and post-transplant immunocompromised status, the native left brachiocephalic arteriovenous fistula was created. Post-operative course was uneventful while any sign of cutaneous infection and pulmonary hypertension was closely monitored. Our literature review also indicates several difficulties with initiating and maintaining RRT in patients with SSc although case reports of kidney failure after lung transplanation in SSc were not accumulated.
Conclusions
With respect to initiating RRT for post-lung transplant patients with SSc, the clinical course of our case exemplifies recent complex trends of renal management. The optimal modality with secured initiation of RRT should be carefully determined based on the severity and risk for the cardiopulmonary, peripheral vascular, cutaneous, and systemic or local infectious complications.
Collapse
|
8
|
Endothelial dysfunction in patients with systemic sclerosis. Postepy Dermatol Alergol 2020; 37:495-502. [PMID: 32994769 PMCID: PMC7507157 DOI: 10.5114/ada.2019.83501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2018] [Accepted: 12/14/2018] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Patients with systemic sclerosis experience endothelial dysfunction and damage even in the absence of clinical manifestations. Aim To evaluate various methods for assessing the endothelial function for their applicability to clinical practice. Material and methods Forty-two patients (7 men and 35 women) with systemic sclerosis and 36 controls (11 men and 25 women) matched for age, sex, body mass index, smoking habit, and comorbidities were enrolled in the study. We assessed each participant for typical risk factors for cardiovascular diseases and measured serum levels of vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) and thrombomodulin together with flow-mediated dilatation (FMD) of the brachial artery and intima-media thickness (IMT) of the common carotid artery using ultrasonography. Results Patients with systemic sclerosis did not differ from controls in serum levels of VCAM-1 and thrombomodulin, however, the statistical analysis with adjustment for potential confounders revealed increased levels of thrombomodulin in the patients (p = 0.03). They also had a 45% lower relative increase of FMD (FMD%), and 13% higher IMT (p < 0.01, both, also after adjustment for potential confounders). In a simple regression model, lower FMD% was determined by age (β = –0.57, 95% confidence interval (CI): –0.72 to –0.43) and C-reactive protein levels (β = –0.38, 95% CI: –0.55 to –0.22). Thicker IMT was related to age (β = 0.64, 95% CI: 0.52–0.67), glomerular filtration rate (β = –0.34, 95% CI: –0.5 to –0.18), and blood thrombomodulin levels (β = 0.45, 95% CI: 0.13–0.76). Conclusions Patients with systemic sclerosis present with endothelial dysfunction which may be detected using ultrasonographic methods. The exact mechanism of observed abnormalities is unknown, but it is possibly related to the chronic inflammation and ischemia-reperfusion injury.
Collapse
|
9
|
Microangiopathy and forearm arterial blood flow in systemic sclerosis: a controlled study. Clin Rheumatol 2020; 39:2671-2676. [DOI: 10.1007/s10067-020-05025-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2020] [Revised: 02/26/2020] [Accepted: 02/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
|
10
|
[Systemic sclerosis and macrovascular involvement: Status of the issue in 2019]. JOURNAL DE MÉDECINE VASCULAIRE 2019; 44:400-421. [PMID: 31761307 DOI: 10.1016/j.jdmv.2019.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2019] [Accepted: 08/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare immune disease leading to fibrosis of the skin and internal organs. Microvasculopathy is a hallmark of SSc. However, some patients have severe macrovascular complications as affecting cerebral, cardiac or peripheral vessels. To date, macrovascular involvement in SSc remains a matter of debate. Many studies have shown an increased prevalence of macrovascular involvement in SSc in comparison with controlled subjects with similar cardiovascular risk factors. Various methods were used: ankle brachial pressure index, intima media thickness, imagery, coronary calcium score, pulse wave velocity, or flow mediated dilation. The pathophysiology of macrovascular involvement remains unknown and is probably multifactorial: accelerated atherosclerosis, endothelial dysfunction, or reflected wave of microvessel obliteration. The aim of this study was to perform a comprehensible review of the literature, through the study of different types of involved vessels. Results of the main studies are summarized in tables according to the method of investigation used.
Collapse
|
11
|
Butt SA, Jeppesen JL, Torp-Pedersen C, Sam F, Gislason GH, Jacobsen S, Andersson C. Cardiovascular Manifestations of Systemic Sclerosis: A Danish Nationwide Cohort Study. J Am Heart Assoc 2019; 8:e013405. [PMID: 31446827 PMCID: PMC6755829 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.119.013405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Background Cardiovascular involvement in systemic sclerosis (SSc) comprises a wide range of manifestations with prevalence and incidence that remain uncertain. Methods and Results In the Danish administrative registries between 1995 and 2015, all patients aged ≥18 years with a first diagnosis of SSc were matched by age and sex with controls (1:5) from the general population. Prevalence of cardiovascular diseases at the time of the SSc diagnosis and incidence during follow‐up were assessed by in‐ and outpatient discharge diagnoses. Conditional logistic and Cox proportional hazards regression models were used respectively to calculate odds ratios for prevalent cardiovascular diseases and hazard ratios (HRs) for incident diseases associated with SSc. Patients with SSc (n=2778; 76% women; mean±SD age: 55±15 years) had more established cardiovascular risk factors than their respective controls at baseline, including greater prevalence of hypertension (31.2% versus 21.0%, P<0.0001) and treated dyslipidemia (9.8% versus 8.5%, P=0.02). SSc was associated with an increased relative risk of developing most cardiovascular diseases, including myocardial infarction (HR: 2.08; 95% CI, 1.65–2.64), peripheral vascular disease (HR: 5.73; 95% CI, 4.63–7.09), pulmonary hypertension (HR: 21.18; 95% CI, 14.73–30.45), mitral regurgitation (HR: 4.60; 95% CI, 3.12–6.79), aortic regurgitation (HR: 3.78; 95% CI, 2.55–5.58), aortic stenosis (HR: 2.99; 95% CI, 2.25–3.97), pericarditis (HR: 8.78; 95% CI, 4.84–15.93), heart failure (HR: 2.86; 95% CI, 2.43–3.37), atrial fibrillation (HR: 1.75; 95% CI, 1.51–2.04), and venous thromboembolism (HR: 2.10; 95% CI, 1.65–2.67). Additional adjustment for medications and comorbidities yielded results similar to the main analyses. Conclusions In this nationwide study, SSc was associated with greater risks of distinct cardiovascular diseases for patients than for matched controls, suggesting a significant disease‐related adverse impact across the vascular bed and specific cardiac structures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sheraz A Butt
- Department of Internal Medicine and Cardiology Amager Hvidovre Hospital Glostrup Denmark
| | - Jørgen L Jeppesen
- Department of Internal Medicine and Cardiology Amager Hvidovre Hospital Glostrup Denmark
| | | | - Flora Sam
- Whitaker Cardiovascular Institute and Department of Cardiology Boston University School of Medicine Boston MA
| | - Gunnar H Gislason
- Department of Cardiology Herlev and Gentofte Hospital Gentofte Denmark
| | - Søren Jacobsen
- Copenhagen Lupus and Vasculitis Clinic Rigshospitalet Copenhagen Denmark
| | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Missé RG, Borges IBP, Shinjo SK. Endothelial function features and properties of large vessel behavior in systemic autoimmune diseases: a cross-talk among cardiovascular disease risk factors. Autoimmun Rev 2019; 18:637-638. [PMID: 30959211 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2019.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2019] [Accepted: 01/25/2019] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Giovani Missé
- Division of Rheumatology, Faculdade de Medicina FMUSP, Universidade de Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Samuel Katsuyuki Shinjo
- Division of Rheumatology, Faculdade de Medicina FMUSP, Universidade de Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Panopoulos S, Tektonidou M, Drosos AA, Liossis SN, Dimitroulas T, Garyfallos A, Sakkas L, Boumpas D, Voulgari PV, Daoussis D, Thomas K, Georgiopoulos G, Vosvotekas G, Vassilopoulos D, Sfikakis PP. Prevalence of comorbidities in systemic sclerosis versus rheumatoid arthritis: a comparative, multicenter, matched-cohort study. Arthritis Res Ther 2018; 20:267. [PMID: 30514359 PMCID: PMC6280404 DOI: 10.1186/s13075-018-1771-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2018] [Accepted: 11/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Comorbidities are common in chronic systemic connective tissue diseases and are associated with adverse outcomes, increased morbidity and mortality. Although the prevalence of comorbidities has been well-studied in isolated diseases, comparative studies between different autoimmune diseases are limited. In this study, we compared the prevalence of common comorbidities between patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc) and patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). METHODS Between 2016 and 2017, 408 consecutive patients with SSc, aged 59 ± 13 years (87% women), were matched 1:1 for age and gender with 408 patients with RA; mean disease duration was 10 ± 8 and 9 ± 8 years, respectively. Rates of cardiovascular risk factors, coronary artery disease, stroke, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), osteoporosis, neoplasms and depression were compared between the two cohorts. RESULTS The prevalence of dyslipidemia (18.4% vs 30.1%, p = 0.001) and diabetes mellitus (5.6% vs 11.8%, p = 0.007) and body mass index (p = 0.001) were lower in SSc compared to RA, while there was no difference in arterial hypertension or smoking. While there was a trend for lower prevalence of ischemic stroke in SSc than in RA (1.1% vs 3.2%, p = 0.085), coronary artery disease was comparable (2.7% vs 3.7%). No differences were found between patients with SSc and patients with RA in the prevalence of COPD (5.2% vs 3.7%), osteoporosis (24% vs 22%) or neoplasms overall (1.1% vs 1.7%); however lung cancer was the most prevalent cancer in SSc (7/17, 41%), whereas hematologic malignancies (7/19, 36%) and breast cancer (7/19, 36%) predominated in RA. Depression was more prevalent in SSc (22% vs 12%, p = 0.001), especially in diffuse SSc. CONCLUSIONS Despite the prevalence of dyslipidemia and diabetes mellitus in SSc being almost half that in RA, the cardiovascular comorbidity burden appears to be similar in both. The overall prevalence of neoplasms is no higher in SSc than in RA, but SSc has a more negative impact on quality of life, as clearly, more SSc patients develop depression compared to patients with RA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stylianos Panopoulos
- Joint Rheumatology Program, 1st Department of Propedeutic Internal Medicine-Rheumatology Unit, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Medicine, Laikon General Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Maria Tektonidou
- Joint Rheumatology Program, 1st Department of Propedeutic Internal Medicine-Rheumatology Unit, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Medicine, Laikon General Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Alexandros A. Drosos
- Rheumatology Clinic, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Stamatis-Nick Liossis
- Division of Rheumatology, University of Patras Medical School, Patras University Hospital, Patras, Greece
| | | | | | - Lazaros Sakkas
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Dimitrios Boumpas
- Joint Rheumatology Program, 4th Department of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Medicine, Attikon University Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Paraskevi V. Voulgari
- Rheumatology Clinic, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Dimitrios Daoussis
- Division of Rheumatology, University of Patras Medical School, Patras University Hospital, Patras, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Thomas
- Joint Rheumatology Program, Clinical Immunology-Rheumatology Unit, 2nd Department of Medicine and Laboratory, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Medicine, Hippokration General Hospital, 114 Vass. Sophias Ave, 115 27 Athens, Greece
| | - Georgios Georgiopoulos
- Joint Rheumatology Program, Clinical Immunology-Rheumatology Unit, 2nd Department of Medicine and Laboratory, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Medicine, Hippokration General Hospital, 114 Vass. Sophias Ave, 115 27 Athens, Greece
| | - Georgios Vosvotekas
- 1st Department of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, School of Medicine, University General Hospital of Thessaloniki AHEPA, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Dimitrios Vassilopoulos
- Joint Rheumatology Program, Clinical Immunology-Rheumatology Unit, 2nd Department of Medicine and Laboratory, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Medicine, Hippokration General Hospital, 114 Vass. Sophias Ave, 115 27 Athens, Greece
| | - Petros P. Sfikakis
- Joint Rheumatology Program, 1st Department of Propedeutic Internal Medicine-Rheumatology Unit, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Medicine, Laikon General Hospital, Athens, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Clifton HL, Machin DR, Groot HJ, Frech TM, Donato AJ, Richardson RS, Wray DW. Attenuated nitric oxide bioavailability in systemic sclerosis: Evidence from the novel assessment of passive leg movement. Exp Physiol 2018; 103:1412-1424. [PMID: 29790215 DOI: 10.1113/ep086991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2018] [Accepted: 05/15/2018] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
NEW FINDINGS What is the central question of this study? Do systemic sclerosis patients exhibit impaired nitric oxide-mediated vascular function of the lower limb and are these decrements correlated with plasma biomarkers for inflammation and oxidative stress? What is the main finding and its importance? Findings indicate impaired nitric oxide-mediated vascular function, linked to the incidence of digital ulcers and a milieu of inflammation and oxidative stress. However, the absence of significant correlations between individual biomarkers and blood flow responses suggests that the vasculopathy observed in systemic sclerosis may not be solely the result of derangements in the redox balance or inflammatory signalling. ABSTRACT Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disease characterized by vasculopathy, which may be the consequence of inflammation and oxidative stress that ultimately leads to a reduced nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability. Passive leg movement (PLM) is a novel methodology for assessing lower limb vascular function that is predominantly NO dependent. We combined this vascular assessment with a comprehensive panel of plasma biomarkers to assess the axis of inflammation, oxidative stress and NO in SSc patients (n = 12; 62 ± 11 years of age) compared with healthy control subjects (n = 17; 60 ± 16 years of age). The PLM-induced changes in leg blood flow (LBF; 191 ± 104 versus 327 ± 217 ml min-1 ) and LBF area under the curve (39 ± 104 versus 125 ± 131 ml) were reduced in SSc compared with control subjects. Stratification of patients according to history of digital ulcer (DU) formation revealed a further reduction in LBF area under the curve in DU (-13 ± 83 ml) versus non-DU (91 ± 102 ml) patients. Biomarkers of inflammation (C-reactive protein) and oxidative stress (malondialdehyde and protein carbonyl) were all elevated in SSc (C-reactive protein, 3299 ± 2372 versus 984 ± 565 ng ml-1 ; malondialdehyde, 3.2 ± 1.1 versus 1.1 ± 0.7 μm; and protein carbonyl, 0.15 ± 0.05 versus 0.12 ± 0.03 nmol mg-1 ), and C-reactive protein was further elevated in patients with a history of DU (4551 ± 2752 versus 2047 ± 1019 ng ml-1 ) compared with non-DU, although these were not individually correlated with changes in LBF. These findings of impaired NO-mediated vascular function, linked to DU and a milieu of inflammation and oxidative stress, suggest that redox balance plays an important, but not necessarily deterministic, role in the vascular pathophysiology of SSc.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Heather L Clifton
- Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Center, George E. Wahlen VA Medical Center, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.,Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Geriatrics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Daniel R Machin
- Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Center, George E. Wahlen VA Medical Center, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.,Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Geriatrics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - H Jonathan Groot
- Department of Health, Kinesiology, and Recreation, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Tracy M Frech
- Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Center, George E. Wahlen VA Medical Center, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.,Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Anthony J Donato
- Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Center, George E. Wahlen VA Medical Center, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.,Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Geriatrics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.,Department of Nutrition and Integrative Physiology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.,Department of Biochemistry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Russell S Richardson
- Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Center, George E. Wahlen VA Medical Center, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.,Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Geriatrics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.,Department of Nutrition and Integrative Physiology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.,Center on Aging, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - D Walter Wray
- Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Center, George E. Wahlen VA Medical Center, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.,Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Geriatrics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.,Department of Nutrition and Integrative Physiology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.,Center on Aging, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Sedky Abdou MM, El Desouky SM, Helmy El Kaffas KM, Ahmed Hassan AM. Premature atherosclerosis in systemic sclerosis patients: Its relation to disease parameters and to traditional risk factors. Int J Rheum Dis 2016; 20:383-389. [PMID: 28036158 DOI: 10.1111/1756-185x.12987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
AIM To detect premature atherosclerosis in systemic sclerosis (SSc) patients and its relation to disease parameters and traditional risk factors. METHOD This study included 40 SSc patients and 40 healthy age and sex matched controls. All patients were subjected to full history taking, clinical examination, relevant laboratory and radiological investigations. Doppler ultrasonography (US) of the common carotid was performed to measure intima-media thickness (ccIMT) and Doppler US of the brachial artery was performed to measure flow mediated dilatation (FMD). RESULTS The mean value of ccIMT was 0.59 ± 0.2 mm in SSc patients and 0.51 ± 0.09 mm in controls and the difference was significant (P = 0.03). A statistically significant difference was found in mean brachial artery diameter before and after hyperemia, in flow change and in FMD between SSc patients and controls. ccIMT showed significant positive correlation with age, C-reactive protein (CRP), cholesterol, triglycerides and low density lipoprotein (P < 0.05). FMD showed significant positive correlation with daily dose of steroids (P = 0.04). Brachial artery diameter after hyperemia showed significant negative correlation with erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR). Peak systolic velocity before ischemia showed significant positive correlation with body mass index (BMI) and significant negative correlation with insulin level. CONCLUSION Our findings confirm the presence of premature atherosclerosis in SSc patients assessed by significant impairment of FMD, flow change and ccIMT, and it is associated with traditional cardiovascular risk factors such as age, dyslipidemia and obesity (BMI) as well as with the use of steroids and markers of inflammation such as CRP and ESR.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Manal M Sedky Abdou
- Rheumatology and Rehabilitation Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Soha M El Desouky
- Rheumatology and Rehabilitation Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | | | - Abeer M Ahmed Hassan
- Rheumatology and Rehabilitation Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Mazlan SA, bin Mohamed Said MS, Hussein H, binti Shamsuddin K, Shah SA, Basri H. A Study of Intima Media Thickness and Their Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Patients with Psoriatic Arthritis. ACTA MEDICA (HRADEC KRÁLOVÉ) 2016; 52:107-16. [DOI: 10.14712/18059694.2016.114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA) is an inflammatory arthritis associated with Psoriasis. Its recognition as an inflammatory disease distinct from Rheumatoid Arthritis has put forward for consideration several questions regarding its specific CVS mortality and morbidity (9, 11, 16, 26). Carotid intima media thickness is a useful surrogate and sensitive marker to determine atherosclerosis even in its subclinical stages (6, 14, 22, 27, 32). Objective: Prevalence of carotid intima media thickness in patients with Psoriatic arthritis is unknown in Asian population. We aim to identify the presence of subclinical atherosclerosis in patients with psoriatic arthritis and disease activity association and its predictors in a series of patients with PsA attended to the rheumatology clinic, tertiary hospitals. Methods: A total of 63 patients with PsA who fulfilled the CASPAR criteria were recruited from UKM Medical Centre and Hospital Putrajaya. Common carotid intima media thickness (IMT) was measured in both right and left carotid artery by using high resolution B-mode ultrasound. This was a cross sectional study first done in Malaysia for PsA patients. Results: The positive IMT (IMT >1.00 mm) among PsA was observed in 10 out of 63 patients (15.9 %) regardless of background cardiovascular risk. The mean±SD of IMT was 0.725 ±0.260 mm for this study. Variables significantly associated with positive IMT (p<0.05) included age at the time of study (p=0.005), waist circumference (p=0.001), Hypertension (p=0.007), Diabetes (p=0.002) and Metabolic syndrome (p=0.001) and not associated with gender, ethnicity, duration of PsA disease, pattern of PsA, disease activity and severity. Above all, only age had positive IMT independent predictor (p=0.032), with OR 1.116; 95 % CI (1.010–1.234). Conclusions: There was a significant association between CVS risk and positive Intima Media Thickness in Psoriatic Arthritis patients. Otherwise, there was no association in disease activity, disease severity and DMARDS therapy with positive Intima Media Thickness in Psoriatic Arthritis patients. The study was approved by Research and Ethics Committee of the faculty of medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia with project code FF-114-2008 and by Community Research Center (CRC) of National Institutes of Health (NIH) for the case study in Hospital Putrajaya with the project code NMRR-08- 970-2125.
Collapse
|
17
|
Ozen G, Inanc N, Unal AU, Korkmaz F, Sunbul M, Ozmen M, Akar S, Deniz R, Donmez S, Pamuk ON, Atagunduz P, Tigen K, Direskeneli H. Subclinical Atherosclerosis in Systemic Sclerosis: Not Less Frequent Than Rheumatoid Arthritis and Not Detected With Cardiovascular Risk Indices. Arthritis Care Res (Hoboken) 2016; 68:1538-46. [DOI: 10.1002/acr.22852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2015] [Revised: 12/09/2015] [Accepted: 01/26/2016] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Gulsen Ozen
- Marmara University Faculty of Medicine; Istanbul Turkey
| | - Nevsun Inanc
- Marmara University Faculty of Medicine; Istanbul Turkey
| | - Ali U. Unal
- Marmara University Faculty of Medicine; Istanbul Turkey
| | | | - Murat Sunbul
- Marmara University Faculty of Medicine; Istanbul Turkey
| | - Mustafa Ozmen
- Katip Celebi University Faculty of Medicine; Izmir Turkey
| | - Servet Akar
- Katip Celebi University Faculty of Medicine; Izmir Turkey
| | - Rabia Deniz
- Marmara University Faculty of Medicine; Istanbul Turkey
| | - Salim Donmez
- Trakya University Faculty of Medicine; Edirne Turkey
| | - Omer N. Pamuk
- Trakya University Faculty of Medicine; Edirne Turkey
| | | | - Kursat Tigen
- Marmara University Faculty of Medicine; Istanbul Turkey
| | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Meiszterics Z, Tímár O, Gaszner B, Faludi R, Kehl D, Czirják L, Szűcs G, Komócsi A. Early morphologic and functional changes of atherosclerosis in systemic sclerosis—a systematic review and meta-analysis. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2016; 55:2119-2130. [DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/kew236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2015] [Revised: 04/29/2016] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
|
19
|
A critical view on cardiovascular risk in systemic sclerosis. Rheumatol Int 2016; 37:85-95. [PMID: 27405985 DOI: 10.1007/s00296-016-3530-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2016] [Accepted: 07/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Systemic Sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by microvascular injury and diffuse fibrosis of the skin and internal organs. While macrovascular disease and higher risk for cardiovascular events are well documented in other systemic rheumatic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus, the presence and extent of atherosclerosis among patients with SSc is yet to be established. Primary cardiac involvement, due to impairment of coronary microvascular circulation and myocardial fibrosis, considerably affects prognosis and life expectancy of individuals with SSc, representing one of the leading causes of death in this population. On the other hand the existence and prevalence of atherosclerotic coronary disease remains an issue of debate as studies comparing structural and morphological markers of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular events between SSc patients and the general population have yielded controversial results. The aim of this review is to summarize recent literature about the prevalence of cardiovascular disease in SSc, review the surrogate markers of CVD that have been evaluated and examine whether common pathogenic mechanisms exist between SSc and macrovascular disease.
Collapse
|
20
|
Determinants of atherosclerosis in an Egyptian cohort of systemic sclerosis: Relation to disease activity and severity. THE EGYPTIAN RHEUMATOLOGIST 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejr.2015.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
|
21
|
Tejera Segura B, Ferraz-Amaro I. [Large vessels vasculopathy in systemic sclerosis]. Med Clin (Barc) 2015; 145:488-92. [PMID: 25726305 DOI: 10.1016/j.medcli.2014.12.016] [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: 09/30/2014] [Revised: 11/25/2014] [Accepted: 12/11/2014] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Vasculopathy in systemic sclerosis is a severe, in many cases irreversible, manifestation that can lead to amputation. While the classical clinical manifestations of the disease have to do with the involvement of microcirculation, proximal vessels of upper and lower limbs can also be affected. This involvement of large vessels may be related to systemic sclerosis, vasculitis or atherosclerotic, and the differential diagnosis is not easy. To conduct a proper and early diagnosis, it is essential to start prompt appropriate treatment. In this review, we examine the involvement of large vessels in scleroderma, an understudied manifestation with important prognostic and therapeutic implications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Beatriz Tejera Segura
- Servicio de Reumatología, Hospital Universitario de Canarias, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, España.
| | - Iván Ferraz-Amaro
- Servicio de Reumatología, Hospital Universitario de Canarias, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, España
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a multisystem connective tissue disorder featured by vascular injury and fibrosis of the skin and various internal organs with autoimmune background. Although the pathogenesis of SSc still remains elusive, it is generally accepted that initial vascular injury due to autoimmunity and/or environmental factors causes structural and functional abnormalities of vasculature which eventually result in the constitutive activation of fibroblasts in various organs. Structural alterations consist of destructive vasculopathy (loss of small vessels) and proliferative obliterative vasculopathy (occlusion of arterioles and small arteries with fibro-proliferative change) caused by impaired compensatory vasculogenesis and angiogenesis. Impaired function of SSc vasculature includes the altered expression of cell adhesion molecules predominantly inducing Th2 and Th17 cell infiltration, endothelial dysfunction primarily due to the low availability of nitric oxide, the activated endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition leading to fibro-proliferative vascular change and tissue fibrosis, and the impaired coagulation/fibrinolysis system promoting the formation of intravascular fibrin deposits. Recent new insights into the therapeutic mechanisms of intravenous cyclophosphamide pulse and bosentan and the establishment of a new SSc animal model (Klf5 (+/-);Fli1 (+/-) mice) provide us useful clues to further understand the development of vascular alterations characteristic of SSc. This article overviewed the present understanding of the pathogenesis of SSc vasculopathy.
Collapse
|
23
|
Cannarile F, Valentini V, Mirabelli G, Alunno A, Terenzi R, Luccioli F, Gerli R, Bartoloni E. Cardiovascular disease in systemic sclerosis. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2015; 3:8. [PMID: 25705640 DOI: 10.3978/j.issn.2305-5839.2014.12.12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2014] [Accepted: 12/16/2014] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Cardiovascular (CV) system involvement is a frequent complication of autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). It still remains unclear if a premature atherosclerosis (ATS) occurs even in systemic sclerosis (SSc). Although microvascular disease is a hallmark of SSc, in the last few years a number of studies highlighted a higher prevalence of macrovascular disease in SSc patients in comparison to healthy individuals and these data have been correlated with a poorer prognosis. The mechanisms promoting ATS in SSc are not fully understood, but it is believed to be secondary to multi-system organ inflammation, endothelial wall damage and vasculopathy. Both traditional risk factors and endothelial dysfunction have been proposed to participate to the onset and progression of ATS in such patients. In particular, endothelial cell injury induced by anti-endothelial antibodies, ischemia/reperfusion damage, immune-mediated cytotoxicity represent the main causes of vascular injury together with an impaired vascular repair mechanism that determine a defective vasculogenesis. Aim of this review is to analyse both causes and clinical manifestations of macrovascular involvement and ATS in SSc.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Cannarile
- Department of Medicine, Rheumatology Unit, University of Perugia, Via dal Pozzo 06132, Perugia, Italy
| | - Valentina Valentini
- Department of Medicine, Rheumatology Unit, University of Perugia, Via dal Pozzo 06132, Perugia, Italy
| | - Giulia Mirabelli
- Department of Medicine, Rheumatology Unit, University of Perugia, Via dal Pozzo 06132, Perugia, Italy
| | - Alessia Alunno
- Department of Medicine, Rheumatology Unit, University of Perugia, Via dal Pozzo 06132, Perugia, Italy
| | - Riccardo Terenzi
- Department of Medicine, Rheumatology Unit, University of Perugia, Via dal Pozzo 06132, Perugia, Italy
| | - Filippo Luccioli
- Department of Medicine, Rheumatology Unit, University of Perugia, Via dal Pozzo 06132, Perugia, Italy
| | - Roberto Gerli
- Department of Medicine, Rheumatology Unit, University of Perugia, Via dal Pozzo 06132, Perugia, Italy
| | - Elena Bartoloni
- Department of Medicine, Rheumatology Unit, University of Perugia, Via dal Pozzo 06132, Perugia, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Farag NA, El Serougy EM, Metawee SA, El Azizi HS. Subclinical atherosclerosis and peripheral vascular disease in systemic sclerosis patients: Relation to potential risk factors. EGYPTIAN RHEUMATOLOGIST 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejr.2014.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
|
25
|
Systemic Sclerosis, Transient Neurological Symptoms, and Macrovascular Disease. Can J Neurol Sci 2014; 37:121-4. [DOI: 10.1017/s031716710000977x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
|
26
|
Lambova S. Cardiac manifestations in systemic sclerosis. World J Cardiol 2014; 6:993-1005. [PMID: 25276300 PMCID: PMC4176808 DOI: 10.4330/wjc.v6.i9.993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2013] [Revised: 05/11/2014] [Accepted: 07/15/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary cardiac involvement, which develops as a direct consequence of systemic sclerosis (SSc), may manifest as myocardial damage, fibrosis of the conduction system, pericardial and, less frequently, as valvular disease. In addition, cardiac complications in SSc may develop as a secondary phenomenon due to pulmonary arterial hypertension and kidney pathology. The prevalence of primary cardiac involvement in SSc is variable and difficult to determine because of the diversity of cardiac manifestations, the presence of subclinical periods, the type of diagnostic tools applied, and the diversity of patient populations. When clinically manifested, cardiac involvement is thought to be an important prognostic factor. Profound microvascular disease is a pathognomonic feature of SSc, as both vasospasm and structural alterations are present. Such alterations are thought to predict macrovascular atherosclerosis over time. There are contradictory reports regarding the prevalence of atherosclerosis in SSc. According to some authors, the prevalence of atherosclerosis of the large epicardial coronary arteries is similar to that of the general population, in contrast with other rheumatic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus. However, the level of inflammation in SSc is inferior. Thus, the atherosclerotic process may not be as aggressive and not easily detectable in smaller studies. Echocardiography (especially tissue Doppler imaging), single-photon emission computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging and cardiac computed tomography are sensitive techniques for earlier detection of both structural and functional scleroderma-related cardiac pathologies. Screening for subclinical cardiac involvement via modern, sensitive tools provides an opportunity for early diagnosis and treatment, which is of crucial importance for a positive outcome.
Collapse
|
27
|
Timár O, Szekanecz Z, Kerekes G, Végh J, Oláh AV, Nagy G, Csiki Z, Dankó K, Szamosi S, Németh Á, Soltész P, Szücs G. Rosuvastatin improves impaired endothelial function, lowers high sensitivity CRP, complement and immuncomplex production in patients with systemic sclerosis--a prospective case-series study. Arthritis Res Ther 2014; 15:R105. [PMID: 24008003 PMCID: PMC3978919 DOI: 10.1186/ar4285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2012] [Revised: 02/15/2013] [Accepted: 09/04/2013] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction We studied the effect of rosuvastatin on endothelial and macrovascular function, cardiovascular risk factors and the complement pathway in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc). Methods Altogether 28 patients with SSc underwent laboratory and complex vascular assessments before and after six months of 20 mg rosuvastatin treatment. Flow-mediated dilation (FMD) of the brachial artery, as well as carotid artery intima-media thickness (ccIMT), carotid-femoral and aorto-femoral pulse wave-velocity (PWV) were analyzed by ECG-synchronized ultrasound. Ankle-brachial index (ABI) was determined by Doppler, and forearm skin microcirculation was assessed by Laser Doppler perfusion monitoring. Results Brachial artery FMD significantly improved upon rosuvastatin therapy (2.2% ± 3.3% before versus 5.7% ± 3.9% after treatment, P = 0.0002). With regard to patient subsets, FMD significantly improved in the 21 lcSSc patients (from 2.1% to 5.6%, P = 0.001). In the seven dcSSc patients, we observed a tendency of improvement in FMD (from 3% to 6%, P = 0.25). Changes in PWV, ccIMT and ABI were not significant. Mean triglyceride (1.7 ± 0.97 versus 1.3 ± 0.46 mmol/l, P = 0.0004), total cholesterol (5.3 ± 1.6 mmol/l versus 4.2 ± 1.3 mmol/l, P = 0.0003), low density lipoprotein cholesterol (3.0 ± 1.3 versus 2.2 ± 1.0 mmol/l, P = 0.005) and C-reactive protein levels (CRP) (5.1 ± 5.2 versus 3.4 ± 2.7, P = 0.01) levels significantly decreased after rosuvastatin treatment. Mean C3, C4 and IC levels also decreased significantly as compared to pretreatment values. Conclusions Six-month rosuvastatin therapy improves endothelial function and lowers CRP, C3, C4 and IC levels indicating possible favourable effects of this statin on the cardiovascular and immune system in SSc.
Collapse
|
28
|
Amaya-Amaya J, Montoya-Sánchez L, Rojas-Villarraga A. Cardiovascular involvement in autoimmune diseases. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2014; 2014:367359. [PMID: 25177690 PMCID: PMC4142566 DOI: 10.1155/2014/367359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2014] [Accepted: 05/01/2014] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Autoimmune diseases (AD) represent a broad spectrum of chronic conditions that may afflict specific target organs or multiple systems with a significant burden on quality of life. These conditions have common mechanisms including genetic and epigenetics factors, gender disparity, environmental triggers, pathophysiological abnormalities, and certain subphenotypes. Atherosclerosis (AT) was once considered to be a degenerative disease that was an inevitable consequence of aging. However, research in the last three decades has shown that AT is not degenerative or inevitable. It is an autoimmune-inflammatory disease associated with infectious and inflammatory factors characterized by lipoprotein metabolism alteration that leads to immune system activation with the consequent proliferation of smooth muscle cells, narrowing arteries, and atheroma formation. Both humoral and cellular immune mechanisms have been proposed to participate in the onset and progression of AT. Several risk factors, known as classic risk factors, have been described. Interestingly, the excessive cardiovascular events observed in patients with ADs are not fully explained by these factors. Several novel risk factors contribute to the development of premature vascular damage. In this review, we discuss our current understanding of how traditional and nontraditional risk factors contribute to pathogenesis of CVD in AD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jenny Amaya-Amaya
- Center for Autoimmune Diseases Research (CREA), School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Carrera 24 No. 63C-69, 11001000 Bogotá, Colombia
- Mederi, Hospital Universitario Mayor, Calle 24 No. 29-45, 11001000 Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Laura Montoya-Sánchez
- Center for Autoimmune Diseases Research (CREA), School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Carrera 24 No. 63C-69, 11001000 Bogotá, Colombia
- Mederi, Hospital Universitario Mayor, Calle 24 No. 29-45, 11001000 Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Adriana Rojas-Villarraga
- Center for Autoimmune Diseases Research (CREA), School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Carrera 24 No. 63C-69, 11001000 Bogotá, Colombia
- Mederi, Hospital Universitario Mayor, Calle 24 No. 29-45, 11001000 Bogotá, Colombia
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Motegi SI, Toki S, Hattori T, Yamada K, Uchiyama A, Ishikawa O. No association of atherosclerosis with digital ulcers in Japanese patients with systemic sclerosis: Evaluation of carotid intima-media thickness and plaque characteristics. J Dermatol 2014; 41:604-8. [DOI: 10.1111/1346-8138.12532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2014] [Accepted: 05/06/2014] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sei-ichiro Motegi
- Department of Dermatology; Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine; Maebashi Japan
| | - Sayaka Toki
- Department of Dermatology; Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine; Maebashi Japan
| | - Tomoyasu Hattori
- Department of Dermatology; Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine; Maebashi Japan
| | - Kazuya Yamada
- Department of Dermatology; Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine; Maebashi Japan
| | - Akihiko Uchiyama
- Department of Dermatology; Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine; Maebashi Japan
| | - Osamu Ishikawa
- Department of Dermatology; Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine; Maebashi Japan
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Gaillard-Bigot F, Roustit M, Blaise S, Gabin M, Cracowski C, Seinturier C, Imbert B, Carpentier P, Cracowski JL. Abnormal amplitude and kinetics of digital postocclusive reactive hyperemia in systemic sclerosis. Microvasc Res 2014; 94:90-5. [PMID: 24990822 DOI: 10.1016/j.mvr.2014.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2014] [Revised: 05/23/2014] [Accepted: 05/26/2014] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Postocclusive reactive hyperemia is mediated by two major mediators: sensory nerves and endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factors. We hypothesized that the skin microvascular response to 5 min ischemia would differ depending upon the hand location in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc), primary Raynaud's phenomenon (PRP) and healthy controls. METHODS Fifteen patients with SSc, 15 sex- and age-matched patients with PRP and healthy controls were enrolled. Their right hands were subjected to 5 min ischemia followed by a postocclusive hyperemia test, with local microcirculation monitoring by laser speckle contrast imaging on the dorsal face of the hand. RESULTS Postocclusive reactive hyperemia was abnormal in terms of peak and area under the curve (AUC) on all fingers except the thumb in patients with SSc and PRP compared with controls. In contrast, the kinetics of the response was longer only in SSc patients, with mean (SD) time to peak on the index, middle and ring finger were respectively 72 (58), 73 (51) and 67 (47) s for SSc; 40 (20), 40 (20) and 36 (19) s for PRP; and 34 (30), 34 (30) and 29 (24) s for controls (P=0.009 for interaction). CONCLUSIONS We observed decreased distal digital microvascular perfusion following 5 min of ischemia in patients presenting with PRP or SSc, while the kinetics was prolonged only in SSc. A dynamic assessment of digital skin blood flow using laser speckle contrast imaging following 5 min ischemia could be used as a tool to assess microvascular abnormalities in patients with Raynaud's phenomenon secondary to SSc.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- F Gaillard-Bigot
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, HP2, 38000, France; Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Inserm CIC003, Grenoble University Hospital, 38043, France
| | - M Roustit
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, HP2, 38000, France; Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Inserm CIC003, Grenoble University Hospital, 38043, France
| | - S Blaise
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, HP2, 38000, France; Vascular Medicine Department, Grenoble University Hospital, 38043, France
| | - M Gabin
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, HP2, 38000, France
| | - C Cracowski
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, HP2, 38000, France; Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Inserm CIC003, Grenoble University Hospital, 38043, France
| | - C Seinturier
- Vascular Medicine Department, Grenoble University Hospital, 38043, France
| | - B Imbert
- Vascular Medicine Department, Grenoble University Hospital, 38043, France
| | - P Carpentier
- Vascular Medicine Department, Grenoble University Hospital, 38043, France
| | - J L Cracowski
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, HP2, 38000, France; Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Inserm CIC003, Grenoble University Hospital, 38043, France.
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Koca SS, Özgen M, Işık B, Dağlı MN, Üstündağ B, Işık A. Serum salusin-α levels in systemic lupus erythematosus and systemic sclerosis. Eur J Rheumatol 2014; 1:14-17. [PMID: 27708865 DOI: 10.5152/eurjrheum.2014.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2013] [Accepted: 01/23/2014] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and systemic sclerosis (SSc), chronic inflammatory diseases, demonstrate an increased incidence of cardiovascular manifestations and subclinical atherosclerotic disease. Salusin-α is a novel bioactive peptide that suppresses the formation of macrophage foam cells, and its serum level is significantly lower in patients with angiographically proven coronary artery disease. The aims of the study were to assess serum salusin-α level and its potential association with the predictors of atherosclerosis in SLE and SSc. MATERIAL AND METHODS The study included 20 SLE and 22 SSc patients and 23 healthy controls (HC). All of the participants were female. Tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), IL-6 and salusin-α levels, homeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) index and common carotid intima-media thickness (IMT) were determined. RESULTS Salusin-α levels were lower and the IMTs were higher in the SLE and SSc groups than in the HC group. The salusin-α level was correlated with neither the disease activity scores nor cytokine levels and IMT in the SLE and SSc groups, although it was correlated with triglyceride level in the SLE group (r=-0.564, p=0.012), and with HOMA-IR index in the HC group (r=0.485, p=0.019). CONCLUSION The present preliminary study may support the idea that SSc leads to subclinical atherosclerosis, as in SLE. Moreover, it can be concluded that the decreased salusin-α levels in SLE and SSc may contribute to subclinical atherosclerosis. However, further studies with larger sample size are needed to demonstrate this contribution in SLE and SSc.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Süleyman Serdar Koca
- Department of Rheumatology, Fırat University Faculty of Medicine, Elazığ, Turkey
| | - Metin Özgen
- Department of Rheumatology, İnönü University Faculty of Medicine, Malatya, Turkey
| | - Bahar Işık
- Department of Emergency Medicine, State Hospital of Aydın, Aydın, Turkey
| | | | - Bilal Üstündağ
- Department of Biochemistry, Fırat University Faculty of Medicine, Elazığ, Turkey
| | - Ahmet Işık
- Department of Rheumatology, Fırat University Faculty of Medicine, Elazığ, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Benhamou Y, Bellien J, Armengol G, Gomez E, Richard V, Lévesque H, Joannidès R. [Assessment of endothelial function in autoimmune diseases]. Rev Med Interne 2014; 35:512-23. [PMID: 24412013 DOI: 10.1016/j.revmed.2013.12.010] [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: 05/22/2013] [Revised: 11/07/2013] [Accepted: 12/02/2013] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Numerous autoimmune-inflammatory rheumatic diseases have been associated with accelerated atherosclerosis or other types of vasculopathy leading to an increase in cardiovascular disease incidence. In addition to traditional cardiovascular risk factors, endothelial dysfunction is an important early event in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis, contributing to plaque initiation and progression. Endothelial dysfunction is characterized by a shift of the actions of the endothelium toward reduced vasodilation, a proinflammatory and a proadhesive state, and prothrombic properties. Therefore, assessment of endothelial dysfunction targets this vascular phenotype using several biological markers as indicators of endothelial dysfunction. Measurements of soluble adhesion molecules (ICAM-1, VCAM-1, E-selectin), pro-thrombotic factors (thrombomodulin, von Willebrand factor, plasminogen activator inhibitor-1) and inflammatory cytokines are most often performed. Regarding the functional assessment of the endothelium, the flow-mediated dilatation of conduit arteries is a non-invasive method widely used in pathophysiological and interventional studies. In this review, we will briefly review the most relevant information upon endothelial dysfunction mechanisms and explorations. We will summarize the similarities and differences in the biological and functional assessments of the endothelium in different autoimmune diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Y Benhamou
- Département de médecine interne, CHU de Rouen, 1, rue de Germont, 76031 Rouen cedex, France; Service de pharmacologie, CHU de Rouen, 1, rue de Germont, 76031 Rouen cedex, France; Inserm U 1096, faculté de médecine de Rouen, 22, boulevard Gambetta, 76183 Rouen cedex, France.
| | - J Bellien
- Département de médecine interne, CHU de Rouen, 1, rue de Germont, 76031 Rouen cedex, France; Service de pharmacologie, CHU de Rouen, 1, rue de Germont, 76031 Rouen cedex, France
| | - G Armengol
- Département de médecine interne, CHU de Rouen, 1, rue de Germont, 76031 Rouen cedex, France
| | - E Gomez
- Inserm U 1096, faculté de médecine de Rouen, 22, boulevard Gambetta, 76183 Rouen cedex, France
| | - V Richard
- Inserm U 1096, faculté de médecine de Rouen, 22, boulevard Gambetta, 76183 Rouen cedex, France
| | - H Lévesque
- Département de médecine interne, CHU de Rouen, 1, rue de Germont, 76031 Rouen cedex, France; Inserm U 1096, faculté de médecine de Rouen, 22, boulevard Gambetta, 76183 Rouen cedex, France
| | - R Joannidès
- Service de pharmacologie, CHU de Rouen, 1, rue de Germont, 76031 Rouen cedex, France; Inserm U 1096, faculté de médecine de Rouen, 22, boulevard Gambetta, 76183 Rouen cedex, France
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Takahashi T, Asano Y, Amiya E, Hatano M, Tamaki Z, Takata M, Ozeki A, Watanabe A, Kawarasaki S, Taniguchi T, Ichimura Y, Toyama T, Watanabe M, Hirata Y, Nagai R, Komuro I, Sato S. Clinical correlation of brachial artery flow-mediated dilation in patients with systemic sclerosis. Mod Rheumatol 2013; 24:106-11. [DOI: 10.3109/14397595.2013.854064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Takehiro Takahashi
- Department of Dermatology, University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine,
7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan
| | - Yoshihide Asano
- Department of Dermatology, University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine,
7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan
| | - Eisuke Amiya
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine,
Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masaru Hatano
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine,
Tokyo, Japan
| | - Zenshiro Tamaki
- Department of Dermatology, University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine,
7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan
| | - Munenori Takata
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine,
Tokyo, Japan
| | - Atsuko Ozeki
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine,
Tokyo, Japan
| | - Aya Watanabe
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine,
Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shuichi Kawarasaki
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine,
Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takashi Taniguchi
- Department of Dermatology, University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine,
7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan
| | - Yohei Ichimura
- Department of Dermatology, University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine,
7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan
| | - Tetsuo Toyama
- Department of Dermatology, University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine,
7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan
| | - Masafumi Watanabe
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine,
Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yasunobu Hirata
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine,
Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ryozo Nagai
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine,
Tokyo, Japan
| | - Issei Komuro
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine,
Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shinichi Sato
- Department of Dermatology, University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine,
7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Matucci-Cerinic M, Kahaleh B, Wigley FM. Review: evidence that systemic sclerosis is a vascular disease. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; 65:1953-62. [PMID: 23666787 DOI: 10.1002/art.37988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 276] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2012] [Accepted: 04/18/2013] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
|
35
|
Tissue Doppler assessment of right ventricular function in female patients with limited form of systemic sclerosis. Egypt Heart J 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ehj.2013.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
|
36
|
Nordin A, Jensen-Urstad K, Björnådal L, Pettersson S, Larsson A, Svenungsson E. Ischemic arterial events and atherosclerosis in patients with systemic sclerosis: a population-based case-control study. Arthritis Res Ther 2013; 15:R87. [PMID: 23945149 PMCID: PMC3979018 DOI: 10.1186/ar4267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2012] [Accepted: 08/14/2013] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction While microvascular disease is well described in systemic sclerosis (SSc), it is still unclear whether the occurrence of ischemic macrovascular events and atherosclerosis is enhanced among patients with SSc. Methods In this study, 111 SSc patients (74% of prevalent cases in Stockholm County) and 105 age- and sex-comparable population controls were investigated. Previous ischemic arterial events were tabulated. As surrogate measures of atherosclerosis, plaque occurrence and intima-media thickness (IMT) were determined with carotid ultrasound and the ankle-brachial index (ABI) was calculated. Traditional cardiovascular risk factors were recorded and we also measured biomarkers indicating systemic inflammation and endothelial activation/dysfunction. Results Mean age was 62 ± 12 years for patients and controls. Ischemic arterial events were more common, due to increased occurrence of ischemic heart disease (IHD) and ischemic peripheral vascular disease (IPVD), in the patient group (12% vs. 4%, P = 0.03 and 9% vs. 0%, P = 0.003 respectively). On a group level, there was no difference regarding the occurrence of ischemic cerebrovascular disease, the frequency of plaques, IMT or ABI between SSc patients and controls. Subgroup analyses revealed that patients with anticentromere antibodies (ACA+) had more plaques and more ischemic arterial events compared to other SSc patients (67% vs. 39% and 32% vs. 11%; P = 0.006 and P = 0.01, respectively) and compared to controls (67% vs. 41% and 32% vs. 7%, P = 0.02 and P = 0.0003, respectively). Biomarkers of inflammation/endothelial activation were generally increased among SSc patients. Conclusions Patients with SSc are at enhanced risk for IHD and IPVD. The ACA+ SSc subgroup was particularly affected with both ischemic arterial events and premature atherosclerosis. The microvascular vulnerability of ACA+ patients is previously well documented. We demonstrate that ACA+ SSc patients have an enhanced risk of macrovascular injury as well. This group should be followed closely and modifiable cardiovascular risk factors should be treated at an early stage.
Collapse
|
37
|
Takahashi T, Asano Y, Amiya E, Hatano M, Tamaki Z, Takata M, Ozeki A, Watanabe A, Kawarasaki S, Taniguchi T, Ichimura Y, Toyama T, Watanabe M, Hirata Y, Nagai R, Komuro I, Sato S. Clinical correlation of brachial artery flow-mediated dilation in patients with systemic sclerosis. Mod Rheumatol 2013. [PMID: 23543079 DOI: 10.1007/s10165-013-0867-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2013] [Accepted: 03/07/2013] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To investigate the clinical significance of flow-mediated dilation (FMD) in systemic sclerosis (SSc). METHODS: Thirty-three SSc patients and 12 healthy controls were studied. Ultrasound assessment of the brachial artery FMD was performed on all subjects. The results were expressed as the percentage of increase in brachial artery diameter following hyperemia. RESULTS: Limited cutaneous SSc (lcSSc) patients had significantly lower FMD values than healthy controls (5.3 ± 2.7 versus 7.7 ± 2.0 %, p < 0.05), while the values in diffuse cutaneous SSc (dcSSc) patients (6.7 ± 4.0 %) were comparable to those in lcSSc patients and healthy controls. Although FMD values did not correlate with any clinical features in dcSSc patients, there was an inverse correlation between FMD values and disease duration in lcSSc patients (r = -0.64, p < 0.05). Furthermore, lcSSc patients with decreased FMD values showed significantly higher prevalence of digital ulcers and elevated right ventricular systolic pressure than those with normal values (for each; 75 versus 10 %, p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: The FMD values represent the severity of vascular damages, which progress along with disease duration and lead to digital ulcers and pulmonary arterial hypertension, in lcSSc patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Takehiro Takahashi
- Department of Dermatology, University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
38
|
Turiel M, Gianturco L, Ricci C, Sarzi-Puttini P, Tomasoni L, Colonna VDG, Ferrario P, Epis O, Atzeni F. Silent cardiovascular involvement in patients with diffuse systemic sclerosis: a controlled cross-sectional study. Arthritis Care Res (Hoboken) 2013; 65:274-80. [DOI: 10.1002/acr.21819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2012] [Accepted: 07/27/2012] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
|
39
|
Chiang CH, Liu CJ, Huang CC, Chan WL, Huang PH, Chen TJ, Chung CM, Lin SJ, Chen JW, Leu HB. Systemic sclerosis and risk of ischaemic stroke: a nationwide cohort study. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2012; 52:161-5. [DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/kes352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
|
40
|
The challenges of dialysis in systemic sclerosis: between the devil and the deep blue sea? Case Rep Nephrol 2012; 2012:865193. [PMID: 24558616 PMCID: PMC3914232 DOI: 10.1155/2012/865193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2012] [Accepted: 08/26/2012] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
We present the case of a patient with systemic sclerosis (SSc) and end stage renal disease (ESRD) who experienced complications of both peritoneal and haemodialysis. We review previously reported outcomes of patients with systemic sclerosis on dialysis and discuss potential shared mechanisms in both the disease pathogenesis and dialysis-related complications, particularly with regards to encapsulating peritoneal sclerosis (EPS).
Collapse
|
41
|
Turiel M, Sarzi-Puttini P, Atzeni F, De Gennaro Colonna V, Gianturco L, Tomasoni L. Cardiovascular injury in systemic autoimmune diseases: an update. Intern Emerg Med 2011; 6 Suppl 1:99-102. [PMID: 22009619 DOI: 10.1007/s11739-011-0672-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
It is well known in literature that systemic autoimmune diseases (SADs) are associated with enhanced atherosclerosis and impaired endothelial function early after the onset of the disease. Cardiovascular (CV) disease represents one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in SADs. There is considerable evidence suggesting a pathogenetic role of chronic inflammation and immune dysregulation for enhanced atherosclerosis in SADs, as demonstrated in several recent studies. Moreover, chronic inflammation, accelerated atherosclerosis and functional abnormalities of the endothelium suggest a subclinical CV involvement beginning rapidly soon after the onset of the disease and progressing with disease duration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maurizio Turiel
- Department of Health Technologies, Cardiology Unit, IRCCS Orthopedic Galeazzi Institute, University of Milan, Via R. Galeazzi 4, Milan, Italy.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
42
|
Au K, Singh MK, Bodukam V, Bae S, Maranian P, Ogawa R, Spiegel B, McMahon M, Hahn B, Khanna D. Atherosclerosis in systemic sclerosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011; 63:2078-90. [PMID: 21480189 DOI: 10.1002/art.30380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 133] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is characterized by calcification, vasculopathy, and endothelial wall damage, all of which can increase the risk of developing atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease. The aim of this study was to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis to determine whether the risk of atherosclerosis is increased in SSc patients compared to healthy individuals. METHODS A systematic search was performed to identify studies published in PubMed and the Cochrane database up to May 2010, and recently published abstracts were also reviewed. Two reviewers independently screened articles to identify studies comparing the rate of atherosclerosis in SSc patients to that in healthy controls. The studies utilized one of the following methods: angiography, Doppler ultrasound to assess plaque and carotid intima-media thickness (IMT), computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, flow-mediated vasodilation (assessed as the FMD%), the ankle-brachial index, or autopsy. For carotid IMT and FMD% values, we computed a pooled estimate of the summary mean difference and explored predictors of carotid IMT using random-effects meta-regression. RESULTS Of the 3,156 articles initially identified, 31 were selected for systematic review. The meta-analysis included 14 studies assessing carotid IMT and 7 assessing brachial artery FMD%. Compared to healthy controls, SSc patients had a higher prevalence of coronary atherosclerosis, peripheral vascular disease, and cerebrovascular calcification. Meta-analysis showed that SSc patients had increased carotid IMT (summary mean difference 0.11 mm, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 0.05 mm, 0.17 mm; P = 0.0006) and lower FMD% (summary mean difference -3.07%, 95% CI -5.44%, -0.69%; P = 0.01) compared to controls. There was marked heterogeneity between the studies, which was mainly attributable to variations in disease duration and differences in the mean/median age between SSc patients and controls. CONCLUSION Patients with SSc have an increased risk of atherosclerosis compared to healthy subjects. Further studies should elucidate the mechanism of this increased risk.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karen Au
- University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
43
|
Ngian GS, Sahhar J, Wicks IP, Van Doornum S. Cardiovascular disease in systemic sclerosis--an emerging association? Arthritis Res Ther 2011; 13:237. [PMID: 21888685 PMCID: PMC3239376 DOI: 10.1186/ar3445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Microvascular disease is a prominent feature of systemic sclerosis (SSc) and leads to Raynaud's phenomenon, pulmonary arterial hypertension, and scleroderma renal crisis. The presence of macrovascular disease is less well established, and, in particular, it is not known whether the prevalence of coronary heart disease in SSc is increased. Furthermore, in terms of cardiac involvement in SSc, there remains conjecture about the relative contributions of atherosclerotic macrovascular disease and myocardial microvascular disease. In this review, we summarize the literature describing cardiovascular disease in SSc, discuss the pathophysiological mechanisms common to SSc and atherosclerosis, and review the surrogate markers of cardiovascular disease which have been examined in SSc. Proposed mediators of the vasculopathy of SSc which have also been implicated in atherosclerosis include endothelial dysfunction, a reduced number of circulating endothelial progenitor cells, and an increased number of microparticles. Excess cardiovascular risk in SSc is suggested by increased arterial stiffness and carotid intima thickening and reduced flow-mediated dilatation. Cohort studies of adequate size are required to resolve whether this translates into an increased incidence of cardiovascular events in patients with SSc.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gene-Siew Ngian
- The University of Melbourne, Department of Medicine (Royal Melbourne Hospital/Western Hospital), 4th Floor, Clinical Sciences Building, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria 3050, Australia.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
44
|
Soltész P, Kerekes G, Dér H, Szücs G, Szántó S, Kiss E, Bodolay E, Zeher M, Timár O, Szodoray P, Szegedi G, Szekanecz Z. Comparative assessment of vascular function in autoimmune rheumatic diseases: considerations of prevention and treatment. Autoimmun Rev 2011; 10:416-25. [PMID: 21281743 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2011.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2011] [Accepted: 01/08/2011] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Numerous autoimmune-inflammatory rheumatic diseases have been associated with accelerated atherosclerosis or other types of vasculopathy leading to increased cardio- and cerebrovascular disease risk. Traditional risk factors, as well as the role of systemic inflammation including cytokines, chemokines, proteases, autoantibodies, adhesion receptors and others have been implicated in the development of these vascular pathologies. The characteristics of vasculopathies may significantly differ depending on the underlying disease. While classical accelerated atherosclerosis has been associated with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) or spondyloarthropathies (SpA), obliterative vasculopathy may rather be characteristic for systemic sclerosis (SSc) or mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD). Antiphospholipid antibodies have been implicated in vasculopathies underlying SLE, antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), RA and MCTD. There is also heterogeneity with respect to inflammatory risk factors. Cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) or interleukin 6 (IL-6) and immune complexes are primarily involved in arthritides, such as RA, SpA, as well as in SLE. On the other hand, autoantibodies including anti-oxLDL anti-cardiolipin and anti-β2GPI are rather involved in SLE- and APS-associated vasculopathies. Regarding the non-invasive assessment of vascular function, endothelial dysfunction, overt atherosclerosis and vascular stiffness may be indicated by brachial artery flow-mediated vasodilation (FMD), common carotid intima-media thickness (ccIMT) and aortic pulse-wave velocity (PWV), respectively. These abnormalities have been described in most inflammatory rheumatic diseases. While ccIMT and stiffness are relatively stable, FMD may be influenced by many confounding factors. In addition to traditional vasculoprotection, immunosuppressive agents including corticosteroids, traditional and biologic DMARDs may have significant vascular and metabolic effects. The official EULAR recommendations on the assessment and management of cardiovascular disease in arthritides have just been published, and similar recommendations in connective tissue diseases are to be developed soon.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pál Soltész
- University of Debrecen Medical and Health Sciences Center, Institute of Medicine, Third Department of Medicine, Angiology and Intensive Care Unit, Debrecen, Hungary
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
45
|
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a chronic disease of unknown etiology, characterized by enhanced fibrosis, and microvascular abnormalities. During the past several decades, the death rates due to cardiovascular disease or cerebrovascular disease in SSc patients substantially increased and are currently responsible for 20-30% of mortality. Various autoimmune rheumatic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus accelerate atherosclerosis. Although microvascular disease is a hallmark of SSc, an ongoing debate exists regarding the presence and extent of macrovascular diseases and the presence of accelerated atherosclerosis in SSc patients. Despite conflicting results as to intima-media thickness (IMT) in SSc patients, the most recent and largest study has found no difference in either plaque occurrence or IMT. Additionally, abnormal coronary flow reserve in SSc patients appears to be due to microvascular involvement rather than atherosclerosis of the epicardial coronary arteries. Angiographic findings as well as computed tomography studies have generated conflicting reports as to coronary atherosclerosis in SSc. Herein, we review the current knowledge of macrovascular involvement and atherosclerosis in SSc. The differences between SSc and other autoimmune rheumatic diseases in the presence and extent of atherosclerosis need to be further investigated.
Collapse
|
46
|
Rossi P, Granel B, Marziale D, Le Mée F, Francès Y. Endothelial function and hemodynamics in systemic sclerosis. Clin Physiol Funct Imaging 2010; 30:453-9. [PMID: 20718808 DOI: 10.1111/j.1475-097x.2010.00965.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is characterized by the development of fibrosis of skin and internal organs that is associated with vascular damage. However, its related parameters have not been fully explored. The aim of this study was to investigate endothelial function in SSc and its relationship with systolic pulmonary artery pressure and systemic arterial compliance (SAC). METHODS We studied 14 SSc females (4 with diffuse and 10 with limited cutaneous form of the disease) and 14 healthy controls matched for age and for cardiovascular risk factors. Endothelium-dependent dilation (i.e. flow-mediated) and endothelium-independent (i.e. nitroglycerin-induced) dilation of the brachial artery were measured as the percentage of change from baseline (FMD and NMD, respectively). In patients with SSc, SAC, cardiac output (CO), systemic arterial resistance and pulmonary artery pressure were estimated using echocardiography Doppler. RESULTS Heart rate, brachial artery pressure and body mass index did not differ between patients with SSc and controls. Flow-mediated vasodilation (FMD) and NMD were significantly decreased in patients with SSc (10.3 ± 8.6 versus 26.6 ± 7.4%, P<0.001; 24.2 ± 8.4 versus 33.3 ± 10.1%, P<0.001, respectively). Postischaemia reactive hyperaemia was lower in patients with SSc (275 ± 185 versus 618 ± 366%, P<0.001). FMD and nitrate-mediated dilation (NMD) were associated with CO, but not with SAC; moreover, FMD correlated with pulmonary artery pressure and peripheral arterial resistance conversely to NMD. CONCLUSIONS Endothelium function in SSc is impaired independently to SAC. Furthermore, the severity of both small artery and pulmonary artery involvement may impact on endothelium-dependent function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pascal Rossi
- Internal Medicine department, North Hospital, Chemin des Bourrely, Marseille Cedex, France.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
47
|
Tsifetaki N, Georgiadis AN, Alamanos Y, Fanis S, Argyropoulou MI, Drosos AA. Subclinical atherosclerosis in scleroderma patients. Scand J Rheumatol 2010; 39:326-9. [PMID: 20476856 DOI: 10.3109/03009741003605648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate subclinical atherosclerosis in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc). METHODS Sixty-six patients with SSc who met the American College of Rheumatology criteria for the disease were included. The serum levels of total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides, high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), and low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) were determined in all patients. Carotid artery intima-media thickness (IMT) and carotid plaques were measured. Patients with a history of atherosclerosis, hypertension, smokers, or patients suffering from conditions that affect the lipid profile, such as diabetes mellitus, hypothyroidism, liver or kidney diseases, Cushing's syndrome, obesity, and a history of familial dyslipidaemia, were excluded. Patients receiving medication affecting lipid metabolism were also excluded from the study. Fifty-one age- and sex-matched non-smoking volunteers were used as controls. RESULTS Sixty patients were investigated. Six were excluded. Of these, two were smokers, two had diabetes mellitus, one hypothyroidism, and one had hypertension treated with diuretics. Patients with SSc exhibited mild dyslipidaemia expressed mainly by low serum levels of HDL-C and high TC (p < 0.001 and p < 0.021, respectively) compared to controls. In addition, the atherogenic ratio LDL-C/HDL-C was significantly higher among SSc patients (p < 0.0001). Common carotid artery IMTs were higher in SSc compared to controls (0.77 +/- 0.2 vs. 0.59 +/- 0.14, p < 0.0001). No correlation between IMTs and any SSc features were found. Logistic regression analysis showed an independent association of scleroderma with IMTs and TC. CONCLUSION The scleroderma patients exhibited an atherogenic lipid profile and subclinical atherosclerosis and have an increased risk for cardiovascular events.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- N Tsifetaki
- Department of Internal Medicine, Rheumatology Clinic, Medical School, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
48
|
Abstract
The prognosis for patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc) has improved in the past three decades, with fewer patients succumbing to renal-crisis-related death. While pulmonary fibrosis and hypertension are currently the most frequent causes of death, there is evidence that cardiovascular disease will have an important role in the long-term prognosis of SSc in the future. Ischemia-reperfusion injury and endothelial dysfunction are cardinal features of SSc, and may predispose a patient to microvascular disease and atherosclerosis. In order to alleviate the cardiovascular burden in patients with SSc, it is important to detect endothelial dysfunction, microvascular flow disturbance and atherosclerosis. Noninvasive techniques that evaluate flow-mediated dilatation and arterial pulse waves (endothelial function measurements), microvascular blood flow (measurement of the microcirculation), carotid intima-media thickness and left ventricular hypertrophy (detection of atherosclerosis) are recommended. In addition, these measurements will facilitate trials of therapeutic strategies that, in addition to controlling conventional risk factors, prevent and treat cardiovascular disease in patients with SSc.
Collapse
|
49
|
|
50
|
Zinger H, Sherer Y, Shoenfeld Y. Atherosclerosis in Autoimmune Rheumatic Diseases—Mechanisms and Clinical Findings. Clin Rev Allergy Immunol 2008; 37:20-8. [DOI: 10.1007/s12016-008-8094-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
|