Disability in adults with arthrogryposis is severe, partly invisible, and varies by genotype

Health-related quality of life in 205 children with arthrogryposis multiplex congenita

PURPOSE

Arthrogryposis multiplex congenita (AMC) describes a heterogeneous group of rare congenital conditions. Health-related quality of life (HRQL) may be reduced in AMC due to broadly heterogeneous physical impairments and participation limitations. This study described HRQL in children and youth with AMC, compared HRQL between child self- and parent-proxy reports, and identified factors associated with better/worse HRQL.

METHODS

Data on 205 children with AMC (age 8-21 years) from a North American AMC registry across eight hospital sites was used. HRQL was assessed cross-sectionally using the Patient Reported Outcome Measurement Information System (PROMIS) and European Quality of Life-5 Dimensions-Youth-3 Levels (EQ-5D-Y-3 L) by self-report, parent proxy-report or both.

RESULTS

Mean child-reported PROMIS T-scores were significantly lower than the normal mean for the Upper Extremity (mean = 33.0) and Mobility (mean = 37.2) but in the normal range for Pain Interference (mean = 46.6) and Peer Relationships (mean = 51.7). A lot of problems in EQ-5D-Y-3 L was reported by 37% in Feeling Worried/ Sad/ Unhappy, 46% in Having Pain/Discomfort, 50% in Doing Usual Activities, 56% in Mobility, and 57% in Looking After Myself. Compared to child-report, parents reported significantly worse PROMIS T-scores and higher problems in EQ-5D domains. Wheelchair use, being small for gestational age, prolonged hospitalization after birth, increased number of orthopedic surgeries, and caregiver's stress were associated with lower HRQL scores.

CONCLUSION

Findings indicate the importance of considering both the child's and parents' reports of HRQL, and to provide multimodal interventions that focus on the effect of childhood and parental characteristics to promote HRQL among children with AMC.

Musculoskeletal complaints and disability in a group of young adults with major congenital upper limb differences in The Netherlands

PURPOSE

To determine prevalence of musculoskeletal complaints (MSCs) in adults with major congenital upper limb differences (CoULD) compared to able-bodied controls, and to examine associations of MSCs and disability with various biopsychosocial factors.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Questionnaire-based cross-sectional study assessing MSCs, disability (using the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire (DASH)), general and mental health status, physical work demands, and upper extremity range of motion.

RESULTS

Seventy-one individuals with CoULD (participation rate: 41%) and 71 controls matched on age, gender, and education were included (49% female, mean age 28.9 years). Year prevalence of MSCs was significantly higher in the CoULD group (35%) than in the control group (18%). The CoULD group was less often employed and had lower scores on all measures of upper limb range of motion and hand grip. MSCs were associated with higher DASH scores and higher reported work demands. Disability was associated with female gender, more joints with limited range of motion, unemployment, and lower general and mental health. Factors associated with disability did not differ between groups.

CONCLUSIONS

MSCs are a frequent problem in young adults with major CoULD. To prevent or reduce MSC and disability, clinicians and researchers should be aware of the associated factors. Implications for rehabilitationThe year prevalence of musculoskeletal complaints (MSCs) in those with major congenital upper limb differences (CoULD) was approximately double to that of the control group, implying a potential relationship between CoULD and MSCs.Rehabilitation professionals should develop personalized strategies to manage work demands in those with CoULD, considering the association between MSCs and higher reported work demands.Recognizing the impact of a negatively perceived body image on mental health, clinicians should integrate psychological counseling into rehabilitation treatments to support mental well-being and improve overall quality of life in those with CoULD.Rehabilitation professionals should educate individuals with CoULD about the potential associations between upper limb work demands, MSCs, and disability.

The experience of caregiving for children with rare musculoskeletal conditions: a qualitative study in arthrogryposis multiplex congenita

BACKGROUND

Arthrogryposis multiplex congenita (AMC) is a group of rare musculoskeletal conditions that is associated with complex healthcare needs and long-term follow up. The literature reports significant direct, indirect, and psychosocial costs for caregivers of children with neuromuscular conditions. Due to mobility limitations and frequent hospital visits, caring for a child with AMC is complex. Other challenges experienced by caregivers include financial strain, job changes, changes in interpersonal relationships and abandonment. This study was aimed at exploring the lived experience of caregivers of children with AMC.

METHODS

The present study is part of a larger global mixed methods study. In the initial quantitative aspect of the study, caregivers (n = 158) of children and youths with AMC (aged 0-21 years) responded to a cost of care survey on an electronic platform. Of the 158 participants, 13 caregivers then further consented to participate in the qualitative aspect of the study in which a 60-min semi-structured, individual interview was conducted remotely. Open-ended questions were developed to gain a deeper understanding of the direct and indirect costs of care, their impact on the caregivers' lives and the quality of the care-giving experience. Interviews were transcribed, and a coding scheme was developed drawing from both the existing literature and the content of the interviews. A deductive and inductive thematic analysis was used to analyze the qualitative data using the NVivo® qualitative data analysis software.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

Five themes describing the experiences of caregivers of children with AMC emerged from the analysis of the qualitative data: 1. Impact of the caregiving experience; 2. Cost of childcare; 3. Support system for care; 4. Managing and navigating care; 5. Supporting the child's growth and development. In addition to the results of the thematic analysis, specific recommendations shared by the caregivers included the need for support groups and provision of support to youths to prepare them for adolescence. These findings will inform resource allocation, policymaking, and support services for children with rare conditions, their caregivers and families.

Éléments de données communs pour l'arthrogrypose multiple congénitale: Un cadre international

Objectif

Afin de faciliter les études multisites et la recherche clinique d'envergure internationale, cette étude a pour but d'identifier des éléments de données communs (EDCs) normalisés et fondés sur un consensus pour l'arthrogrypose multiple congénitale (AMC).

Méthode

Une étude à méthodes mixtes comprenant plusieurs groupes de discussion et trois séries d'enquêtes Delphi modifiées pour parvenir à un consensus ont été menées.

Résultats

Dans l'ensemble, 45 experts cliniques ainsi qu'adultes ayant une expérience vécue (dont 12 membres d'un consortium d'AMC) ont participé à cette étude à travers 11 pays en Amérique du Nord, Europe et Australie. Les EDCs comprennent 321 éléments de données et 19 mesures standardisées dans divers domaines, du développement du fœtus à l'âge adulte. Les éléments de données relatifs aux traits phénotypiques de l'AMC ont été cartographiés conformément à l'ontologie du phénotype humain (HPO). Une structure de gouvernance universelle, des protocoles de fonctionnement et des plans de développement durable ont été identifiés comme les principaux facilitateurs considérant que la capacité limitée de partage des données et la nécessité d'une infrastructure informatique fédérée étaient les principaux obstacles.

Interprétation

Une collecte de données systématiques sur l'AMC à l'aide d'EDCs permettra d'étudier sur les voies étiologiques, décrire le profil épidémiologique, et établir des corrélations génotype‐phénotype de manière standardisée. Les EDCs proposés faciliteront les collaborations internationales multidisciplinaires en améliorant à grande échelle les études multicentriques, les possibilités de partage des données, ainsi que le transfert et la diffusion des connaissances.

Bone mineral density in adults with arthrogryposis multiplex congenita: a retrospective cohort analysis

The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of low femoral and lumbar spine bone mineral density (BMD) in adults with arthrogryposis multiplex congenita (AMC). We performed a retrospective cohort analysis of adults with AMC who were enrolled in the French Reference Center for AMC and in the Pediatric and Adult Registry for Arthrogryposis (PARART, NCT05673265). Patients who had undergone dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and/or vitamin D testing were included in the analysis. Fifty-one patients (mean age, 32.9 ± 12.6 years) were included; 46 had undergone DXA. Thirty-two (32/51, 62.7%) patients had Amyoplasia, and 19 (19/51, 37.3%) had other types of AMC (18 distal arthrogryposis, 1 Larsen). Six patients (6/42, 14.3%) had a lumbar BMD Z score less than - 2. The mean lumbar spine Z score (- 0.03 ± 1.6) was not significantly lower than the expected BMD Z score in the general population. Nine (9/40, 22.5%) and 10 (10/40, 25.0%) patients had femoral neck and total hip BMD Z scores less than - 2, respectively. The mean femoral neck (- 1.1 ± 1.1) and total hip (- 1.2 ± 1.2) BMD Z scores in patients with AMC were significantly lower than expected in the general population (p < 0.001). Femoral neck BMD correlated with height (rs = 0.39, p = 0.01), age (rs = - 0.315, p = 0.48); total hip BMD correlated with height (rs = 0.331, p = 0.04) and calcium levels (rs = 0.41, p = 0.04). Twenty-five patients (25/51, 49.0%) reported 39 fractures. Thirty-one (31/36, 86.1%) patients had 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels less than 75 nmol/l, and 6 (6/36, 16.7%) had 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels less than 75 nmol/l. Adults with AMC had lower hip BMD than expected for their age, and they more frequently showed vitamin D insufficiency. Screening for low BMD by DXA and adding vitamin D supplementation when vitamin D status is insufficient should be considered in adults with AMC, especially if there is a history of falls or fractures.

Elementos de datos comunes para la artrogriposis múltiple congénita: Un marco internacional

Objetivo

Para facilitar los estudios multicéntricos y la investigación clínica internacional, este estudio pretende identificar de forma consensuada los elementos de datos estandarizados para la artrogriposis múltiple congénita (AMC).

Método

Estudio de métodos mixtos de grupos de discusión y tres rondas de encuestas Delphi modificadas para llegar a un consenso utilizando dos escalas de clasificación por niveles.

Resultados

En total, 45 expertos clínicos y adultos con experiencia vivida (incluidos 12 miembros de un consorcio de AMC) participaron en este estudio procedentes de 11 países: Norteamérica, Europa y Australia. Los CDEs incluyen 321 elementos de datos y 19 medidas estandarizadas en varios dominios desde el desarrollo fetal hasta la edad adulta. Los elementos de datos relativos a los rasgos fenotípicos del CDEs se mapearon de acuerdo con la Ontología de Fenotipos Humanos. Se identificaron como principales facilitadores la estructura de gobernanza universal, protocolos operados de forma local y los planes de sostenibilidad, mientras que los principales obstáculos observados son la capacidad limitada para compartir datos y la necesidad de una infraestructura informática federada.

Interpretación

La recopilación de datos sistemáticos sobre la AMC mediante CDEs permitirá investigar las vías etiológicas, describir el perfil epidemiológico y establecer correlaciones genotipo‐fenotipo de forma estandarizada. Los CDEs propuestos facilitarán las colaboraciones multidisciplinares internacionales mejorando los estudios a gran escala y las oportunidades para compartir datos, translación de conocimiento y difusión.

Common data elements for arthrogryposis multiplex congenita: An international framework

AIM

To facilitate multisite studies and international clinical research, this study aimed to identify consensus-based, standardized common data elements (CDEs) for arthrogryposis multiplex congenita (AMC).

METHOD

A mixed-methods study comprising of several focus group discussions and three rounds of modified Delphi surveys to achieve consensus using two tiered-rating scales were conducted.

RESULTS

Overall, 45 clinical experts and adults with lived experience (including 12 members of an AMC consortium) participated in this study from 11 countries in North America, Europe, and Australia. The CDEs include 321 data elements and 19 standardized measures across various domains from fetal development to adulthood. Data elements pertaining to AMC phenotypic traits were mapped according to the Human Phenotype Ontology. A universal governance structure, local operating protocols, and sustainability plans were identified as the main facilitators, whereas limited capacity for data sharing and the need for a federated informatics infrastructure were the main barriers.

INTERPRETATION

Collection of systematic data on AMC using CDEs will allow investigations on etiological pathways, describe epidemiological profile, and establish genotype-phenotype correlations in a standardized manner. The proposed CDEs will facilitate international multidisciplinary collaborations by improving large-scale studies and opportunities for data sharing, knowledge translation, and dissemination.

Fetal arthrogryposis-what do we tell the prospective parents?

Arthrogryposis, also termed arthrogryposis multiplex congenita, is a descriptive term for conditions with multiple congenital contractures (MCC). The etiology is extremely heterogeneous. More than 400 specific disorders have been identified so far, which may lead to or are associated with MCC and/or fetal hypo- and akinesia as a clinical sign. With improved sensitivity of prenatal ultrasound and expanding prenatal diagnostic options, clinicians are tasked with providing early detection in order to counsel the prospective parents regarding further prenatal diagnostic as well as management options. We summarize the most important knowledge to raise awareness for early detection in pregnancy. We review essential points for counseling when MCC is detected in order to provide answers to common questions, which, however, cannot replace interdisciplinary expert opinion in the individual case.

Diagnostic workup in children with arthrogryposis: description of practices from a single reference centre, comparison with literature and suggestion of recommendations

INTRODUCTION

Arthrogryposis multiplex congenita (AMC) refers to a clinical presentation of congenital contractures involving two or more body areas. More than 400 distinct conditions may lead to AMC, making the aetiological diagnosis challenging. The objective of this work was to set up evidence-based recommendations for the diagnosis of AMC by taking advantage of both data from our nation-wide cohort of children with AMC and from the literature.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We conducted a retrospective single-centre observational study. Patients had been evaluated at least once at a paediatric age in the AMC clinic of Grenoble University Hospital between 2007 and 2019. After gathering data about their diagnostic procedure, a literature review was performed for each paraclinical investigation to discuss their relevance.

RESULTS

One hundred and twenty-five patients were included, 43% had Amyoplasia, 27% had distal arthrogryposis and 30% had other forms. A definitive aetiological diagnosis was available for 66% of cases. We recommend a two-time diagnostic process: first, non-invasive investigations that aim at classifying patients into one of the three groups, and second, selected investigations targeting a subset of patients.

CONCLUSION

The aetiological management for patients with AMC remains arduous. This process will be facilitated by the increasing use of next-generation sequencing combined with detailed phenotyping. Invasive investigations should be avoided because of their limited yield.

Characterizing Pain Among Adolescents and Young Adults With Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenita

PURPOSE

Primary study objectives were to ( a ) characterize pain and explore differences between adolescents and adults with arthrogryposis multiplex congenita (AMC) and ( b ) evaluate associations between pain-related outcomes and mobility.

METHODS

People who can walk and with AMC completed pain-related questionnaires.

RESULTS

Sixty-three participants (28 adolescents and 35 young adults) were recruited. Pain was reported in the past week by 81% of participants; intensity ratings were similar between age groups. Per the McGill Pain Questionnaire, pain severity was significantly lower among adolescents. Adults had a greater number of painful regions compared with adolescents. Greater 7-day average pain intensity, McGill Pain Questionnaire scores, and number of painful regions were associated with reduced functional mobility.

CONCLUSIONS

As most adolescents and young adults with AMC have at least mild pain, and pain is associated with mobility, future longitudinal investigations of pain and its functional consequences are warranted.

Test–retest reliability for performance-based outcome measures among individuals with arthrogryposis multiplex congenita

Background

Most individuals with arthrogryposis multiplex congenita, a rare condition characterized by joint contractures in ≥ 2 body regions, have foot and ankle involvement leading to compromised gait and balance. The purpose of this study was to establish between-days, test–retest reliability for performance-based outcome measures evaluating gait and balance, i.e., the 10-m Walk Test, Figure-of-8 Walk Test, 360-degree Turn Test, and modified Four Square Step Test, among adolescents and adults with arthrogryposis multiplex congenita.

Methods

This reliability study included ambulatory participants, aged 10 to 50 years, with a medical diagnosis of arthrogryposis multiplex congenita. Participants completed performance-based measures, in a randomized order, on two separate occasions. Intraclass correlation coefficients with 95% confidence intervals and minimal detectable changes at the 90% and 95% confidence level were calculated.

Results

Participants included 38 community-ambulators with a median of 13 out of 14 upper and lower joint regions affected. Intraclass correlation coefficient point estimates and 95% confidence intervals ranged from .85-.97 and .70-.98, respectively. Minimal detectable changes were 10 to 39% of sample means and were largest for the modified Four Square Step Test.

Conclusions

Among individuals with arthrogryposis, gait speed per the 10-m Walk Test, as well as non-linear walking and dynamic balance assessment per the Figure-of-8 Walk and 360 Degree Turn Tests, have adequate test–retest reliability enabling evaluation of individual patient changes. Changes in groups of ambulatory individuals with arthrogryposis multiplex congenita may be reliably evaluated with all of the studied outcome measures.

Psychosocial wellbeing among children and adults with arthrogryposis: a scoping review

BACKGROUND

Arthrogryposis multiplex congenita (AMC) is a group of congenital conditions characterized by joint contractures in two or more body areas. Management of AMC starts early in life and focuses on improving mobility and function through intensive rehabilitation and surgical interventions. Psychosocial wellbeing is an important determinant of health and the psychosocial experience of individuals with AMC should be considered in the management of this condition. The aim of this scoping review was to explore what is known about the psychosocial wellbeing of children and adults with AMC, to identify the outcome measures used and to explore the factors associated with psychosocial outcomes in this population.

METHODS

A comprehensive search in four databases was conducted. Articles discussing psychosocial outcomes and outcome measures used with children or adults with AMC were included. Data on the measures used, psychosocial outcomes, and factors associated with psychosocial outcomes, were extracted and analyzed descriptively and synthesized narratively.

RESULTS

Seventeen articles were included in this scoping review, ten including the pediatric population, six including adults and one article including both children and adults with AMC. The most commonly used outcome measures were the PODCI in the pediatric studies, and the SF-36 in studies on adults. In the pediatric studies, psychosocial outcomes were often secondary, compared to the studies on adults. Results showed that in both children and adults, psychosocial outcomes are comparable with the levels of the general population. Qualitative studies reflected the affective needs of this population and issues with emotional wellbeing. Factors such as fatigue and pain were associated with poorer psychosocial outcomes in adults with an impact on social relationships, intimacy and family planning.

CONCLUSION

Validated outcome measures, qualitative approaches and longitudinal studies are needed to better understand the psychosocial outcomes in AMC over time. Psychosocial support should be part of the multidisciplinary management of AMC throughout the lifespan.

Amyoplasia and distal arthrogryposis

Arthrogryposis multiplex congenita (AMC) consists of congenital joint contractures that affect at least two joints. There are two types: in the first, arthrogryposis is an additional sign in the context of various pathologies (neuromuscular diseases); in the second, it is the main and constant symptom. In the first type, the progression of the causal underlying disease must be considered. In the second type, there are two specific forms: Amyoplasia corresponds to a significant congenital absence of muscles (epigenetic disease or vascular origin) while distal arthrogryposis has a genetic component and is transmissible. The orthopedic surgeon's purpose, which is usually to enhance movement, is not appropriate for an arthrogryposis patient. One must keep in mind that without muscle, movement is impossible. The goal differs between the upper and lower limbs: for the upper limb, it is to allow grasping, and, if possible, to bring the hand to the mouth; for the lower limb, it is to ensure ambulation with plantigrade support, and the knees extended, which is the only stable position possible with little to no muscles. The rehabilitation, orthoses and/or surgical techniques are chosen to achieve this singular aim. While it may appear modest, it is crucial for patients. The goal is to achieve useful mobility, not maximum mobility. This multidisciplinary treatment, which evolves over time, must be explained to the family to get its adherence.

Orthopaedic care of the child with arthrogryposis: a 2020 overview

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The orthopaedic treatment of children with arthrogryposis multiplex congenita has evolved steadily over the past two decades. Interrelated factors have spurred this on, including better appreciation of the functional potential of persons with arthrogryposis, development of newer procedures specific for the arthrogrypotic deformities, and outcomes studies that provide understanding of the overall capabilities of adults with arthrogryposis and follow-up to determine which treatments were beneficial and which were not. This article briefly sketches out of some of these advances and indicates areas that need further development.

RECENT FINDINGS

Outcome studies show that the majority of adults with arthrogryposis are ambulatory but less than half are fully independent. Adults frequently experience ongoing pain, particularly foot and back pain, limiting ambulation and standing. Advancements in the upper extremity treatment include improving elbow function, wrist repositioning, and improving thumb positioning. In the lower extremities, correction of hip and knee contractures leads to improved ambulatory potential, and treating clubfeet with serial casting decreases poor outcomes.

SUMMARY

Clinical evaluation, both physical examination and assessment of the patient's needs, are important in directing treatment in arthrogryposis. Further outcomes studies are needed to continue to refine procedures and define the appropriate candidates.

Pain among children and adults living with arthrogryposis multiplex congenita: A scoping review

Clinical interventions and research have mostly focused on the orthopedic and genetic outcomes of individuals with arthrogryposis multiplex congenita (AMC), and although pain has gained recognition as an important issue experienced by individuals with AMC, it has received little attention within the AMC literature. The aims of this scoping review were to describe the pain experiences of children and adults with AMC, to identify pain assessment tools and management techniques, and document the impact of pain on participation in everyday activities among children and adults with AMC. A search of the literature was conducted in four search engines and identified a total of 89 articles. Once study eligibility was reviewed, 21 studies met the selection criteria and were included in this review. Pain appears to be more commonly experienced in adults with AMC compared with children with AMC, with individuals having undergone multiple corrective procedures self-reporting pain more often. In adult populations, musculoskeletal chronic pain is a significant problem, resulting in restrictions in activities of daily living, mobility, and participation. Researchers and clinicians must agree on the use of validated measures appropriate for evaluating pain in AMC and the use of appropriate pain management techniques to relieve pain. Pediatric studies should focus on determining how commonly pain is experienced in infants, children, and adolescents with AMC. Pain in adults with AMC should be acknowledged to offer proper client-centered interventions throughout the lifespan.

International multidisciplinary collaboration toward an annotated definition of arthrogryposis multiplex congenita

Arthrogryposis multiplex congenita (AMC) has been described and defined in thousands of articles, but the terminology used has been inconsistent in clinical and research communities. A definition of AMC was recently developed using a modified Delphi consensus method involving 25 experts in the field of AMC from 8 countries. Participants included health care professionals, researchers, and individuals with AMC. An annotation of the definition provides more in-depth explanations of the different sentences of the AMC definition and is useful to complement the proposed definition. The aim of this study was to provide an annotation of the proposed consensus-based AMC definition. For the annotation process, 17 experts in AMC representing 10 disciplines across 7 countries participated. A paragraph was developed for each sentence of the definition using an iterative process involving multiple authors with varied and complementary expertise, ensuring all points of view were taken into consideration. The annotated definition provides an overview of the different topics related to AMC and is intended for all stakeholders, including youth and adults with AMC, their families, and clinicians and researchers, with the hopes of unifying the understanding of AMC in the international community.

The relationship between joint surgery and quality of life in adults with arthrogryposis: An international study

Individuals with Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenita (AMC) are born with multiple joint contractures in multiple body areas, typically manifested as clubfeet, extended or flexed knees and/or elbows, and internal shoulder rotation, and clasped hands. They require multiple surgeries as children, but there is little data that reports their aging and future quality of life (QOL). This study describes the relationship between AMC-related surgically-managed joints in childhood and adulthood, and QOL as adults. Participants (n = 83) from 14 countries completed an online questionnaire followed by a telephone/Skype interview as adults. Data points collected regarding total number of surgeries, affected joints, country of origin, sex, age, and SF-36's Physical Capacity Score (PCS) for QOL were analyzed using a beta regression model to explore which factors may potentially influence adult QOL. The average number of surgeries per participant was 9.8, with at least 50% performed during childhood. 78, 45, and 31% of participants had foot, knee, and hip surgeries, respectively. The model demonstrated that knee and/or shoulder surgeries were more likely to have a negative correlation with PCS; elbow surgery, however, showed a positive correlation, as elbow function may impact independent function. However, future expansion of this data set to a longitudinal registry would provide better ongoing surgery-specific data.