1
|
Noriega-Álvarez E, Rodríguez-Alfonso B, Merino Argumánez C, Domínguez Gadea L, Peiró-Valgañón V. Decoding polymyalgia rheumatica, the role of Nuclear Medicine Imaging. Rev Esp Med Nucl Imagen Mol 2024; 43:63-72. [PMID: 38110086 DOI: 10.1016/j.remnie.2023.12.002] [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: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023]
Abstract
Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) is an inflammatory joint disease that presents in patients older than 50 years with prolonged morning pain and stiffness in the shoulder and hip joints and neck. The lack of specific clinical findings, laboratory signs, biomarkers and established imaging methods makes it difficult to diagnose patients with this disease. 18F-FDG PET/CT is a functional imaging technique that is an established tool in oncology and has also proven useful in the field of inflammatory diseases. The aim of this paper is to present literature evidence on the use of molecular imaging methods such as PET/CT for early diagnosis, assessment of disease activity and therapeutic response in PMR. At the same time, the advantages, disadvantages and contraindications of other methods are considered.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- E Noriega-Álvarez
- Servicio de Medicina Nuclear, Hospital General Universitario de Ciudad Real, Guadalajara, Spain; Grupo de Trabajo de Patología Músculo-Esquelética de la SEMNIM, Spain.
| | - B Rodríguez-Alfonso
- Servicio de Medicina Nuclear, Hospital Puerta de Hierro de Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain; Grupo de Trabajo de Patología Músculo-Esquelética de la SEMNIM, Spain
| | - C Merino Argumánez
- Servicio de Reumatología, Hospital Puerta de Hierro de Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - L Domínguez Gadea
- Servicio de Medicina Nuclear, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain; Grupo de Trabajo de Patología Músculo-Esquelética de la SEMNIM, Spain
| | - V Peiró-Valgañón
- Departamento de Medicina Nuclear, Diagnóstico por la Imagen, Hospital Universitario de Fuenlabrada, Madrid, Spain; Grupo de Trabajo de Patología Músculo-Esquelética de la SEMNIM, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Florescu MM, Bobircă F, Florescu A, Pădureanu V, Bobircă A, Ciurea PL, Criveanu C, Florescu LM, Muşetescu AE. Polymyalgia rheumatica: An update (Review). Exp Ther Med 2023; 26:543. [PMID: 37928511 PMCID: PMC10623218 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2023.12242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) is a chronic inflammatory disease which affects the connective vascular tissue, characterized by pain accompanied by morning stiffness, predominantly of the neck muscles, hip and shoulder girdle. Usually, patients with this disease are >50 years of age and biological inflammatory syndrome is present with an increase in both the erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein levels, aspects similar to giant cell arteritis. The aim of the present review was to depict the current pathogenic hypothesis, diagnostic and treatment approach for patients with PMR, and novelties since the development of the currently used 2012 European League Against Rheumatism and American College of Rheumatology provisional classification criteria. PMR is a prevalent disease that can occasionally prove difficult to diagnose and treat. Possibly, the most abundant type of evidence and data revealed over the past decade have been acquired through musculoskeletal imaging, with implications in diagnosis, disease monitoring and relapse, prognosis and changes with treatment. Further research on pathophysiology is required to gain a deeper understanding of the underlying processes, which will serve as the foundation for future personalized treatments. In addition, there is an increasing demand for improved diagnostic techniques, which should include a further development of various imaging modalities, in order to provide accurate diagnosis and appropriate therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mirela Marinela Florescu
- Department of Pathology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Florin Bobircă
- Department of General Surgery, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Dr I. Cantacuzino Clinical Hospital, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Alesandra Florescu
- Department of Rheumatology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Vlad Pădureanu
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Anca Bobircă
- Department of Rheumatology and Internal Medicine, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Paulina Lucia Ciurea
- Department of Rheumatology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Cristina Criveanu
- Department of Rheumatology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Lucian Mihai Florescu
- Department of Radiology and Medical Imaging, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Anca Emanuela Muşetescu
- Department of Rheumatology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Abstract
ABSTRACT A 68-year-old woman was referred for an 18 F-FDG PET/CT for evaluation of arthralgia and raised inflammatory markers, which demonstrated intense FDG activity (SUV max , 25.5) at numerous periarticular and extra-articular sites including the cervical and lumbar interspinous bursae, lumbar facet joints, bilateral ischial tuberosities, and greater trochanters and the aorta consistent with active polymyalgia rheumatica.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey Chen
- From the Department of Nuclear Medicine and PET, Nepean Hospital, Kingswood
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
Chen LL, van de Burgt A, Smit F, Audhoe RS, de Boer SM, van Velden FH, de Geus-Oei LF. Investigating the potential added value of [ 18 F]FDG-PET/CT in long COVID patients with persistent symptoms: a proof of concept study. Nucl Med Commun 2023; 44:495-501. [PMID: 36951877 PMCID: PMC10171287 DOI: 10.1097/mnm.0000000000001689] [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: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/24/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Since the end of 2019, the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) virus has infected millions of people, of whom a significant group suffers from sequelae from COVID-19, termed long COVID. As more and more patients emerge with long COVID who have symptoms of fatigue, myalgia and joint pain, we must examine potential biomarkers to find quantifiable parameters to define the underlying mechanisms and enable response monitoring. The aim of this study is to investigate the potential added value of [ 18 F]FDG-PET/computed tomography (CT) for this group of long COVID patients. METHODS For this proof of concept study, we evaluated [ 18 F]FDG-PET/CT scans of long COVID patients and controls. Two analyses were performed: semi-quantitative analysis using target-to-background ratios (TBRs) in 24 targets and total vascular score (TVS) assessed by two independent nuclear medicine physicians. Mann-Whitney U -test was performed to find significant differences between the two groups. RESULTS Thirteen patients were included in the long COVID group and 25 patients were included in the control group. No significant differences ( P < 0.05) were found between the long COVID group and the control group in the TBR or TVS assessment. CONCLUSION As we found no quantitative difference in the TBR or TVS between long COVID patients and controls, we are unable to prove that [ 18 F]FDG is of added value for long COVID patients with symptoms of myalgia or joint pain. Prospective cohort studies are necessary to understand the underlying mechanisms of long COVID.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Linda L. Chen
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Alrijne Hospital, Leiderdorp
- Department of Technical Medicine, Faculty of 3mE, Delft University of Technology, Delft
- Department of Radiology, Section of Nuclear Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), Leiden
- Department of Radiation Therapy, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam
| | - Alina van de Burgt
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Alrijne Hospital, Leiderdorp
- Department of Radiology, Section of Nuclear Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), Leiden
| | - Frits Smit
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Alrijne Hospital, Leiderdorp
- Department of Radiology, Section of Nuclear Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), Leiden
| | | | | | - Floris H.P. van Velden
- Department of Radiology, Section of Nuclear Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), Leiden
| | - Lioe-Fee de Geus-Oei
- Department of Radiology, Section of Nuclear Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), Leiden
- Biomedical Photonic Imaging Group, Twente University, Enschede
- Department of Radiation Science & Technology, Delft University of Technology, Delft, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Colaci M, Dichiara J, Aprile ML, Ippolito M, Schinocca C, Guggino G, Malatino L. Use of 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography-computed tomography in patients affected by polymyalgia rheumatica and persistent increase of acute phase reactants. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:1042620. [PMID: 36465900 PMCID: PMC9709413 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.1042620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 07/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) is an inflammatory disease affecting older adults characterized by aching pain and morning stiffness of the shoulder and pelvic girdles. Moreover, PMR can be associated with giant cell arteritis (GCA). Generally, PMR is highly responsive to steroids, reaching complete remission in the majority of cases. However, the possibility of occult diseases, including extra-cranial GCA, should be excluded. 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (18F-FDG-PET) is able to detect the presence of peri-/articular or vascular inflammation, which may be both present in PMR, thus representing a useful diagnostic tool, mainly in presence of extra-cranial GCA. We retrospectively evaluated all consecutive patients who received the diagnosis of PMR in our rheumatology clinic, classified according to the 2012 American College of Rheumatology/European League Against Rheumatism (ACR/EULAR) criteria, in the period between April 2020 and May 2022. Among this case series, we selected the patients who underwent 18F-FDG-positron emission tomography (PET) because of the persistent increase of acute phase reactants (APR) besides the steroid therapy. Eighty patients were diagnosed with PMR. Nine out of them also presented arthritis of the wrists during the follow-up, whereas none showed signs of cranial GCA at the diagnosis. Seventeen out of eighty subjects (mean age 71.5 ± 7.5 years; M/F 2/15) presented persistent increase of erythrocyte sedimentation rate (mean ESR 44.2 ± 20.8 mm/h) and/or C-reactive protein (mean CRP 25.1 ± 17 mg/l), thus they underwent total body 18F-FDG-PET/CT. Large vessel 18F-FDG uptake indicating an occult GCA was found in 5/17 (29.4%) cases. Twelve out of seventeen (70.6%) patients showed persistence of peri-/articular inflammation, suggesting a scarce control of PMR or the presence of chronic arthritis. Finally, in 2 cases, other inflammatory disorders were found, namely an acute thyroiditis and a hip prosthesis occult infection. 18F-FDG-PET/CT in PMR patients with persistent increase of APR is a useful diagnostic technique in order to detect occult GCA, persistence of active PMR or other misdiagnosed inflammatory diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michele Colaci
- Rheumatology Clinic, Internal Medicine Unit, Azienda Ospedaliera per l’Emergenza (AOE) Cannizzaro, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Jessika Dichiara
- Rheumatology Clinic, Internal Medicine Unit, Azienda Ospedaliera per l’Emergenza (AOE) Cannizzaro, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Maria Letizia Aprile
- Rheumatology Clinic, Internal Medicine Unit, Azienda Ospedaliera per l’Emergenza (AOE) Cannizzaro, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Massimo Ippolito
- Nuclear Medicine Unit, Azienda Ospedaliera per l’Emergenza (AOE) Cannizzaro, Catania, Italy
| | - Claudia Schinocca
- Rheumatology Unit, Policlinico “P. Giaccone”, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Giuliana Guggino
- Rheumatology Unit, Policlinico “P. Giaccone”, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Malatino
- Rheumatology Clinic, Internal Medicine Unit, Azienda Ospedaliera per l’Emergenza (AOE) Cannizzaro, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
A Case of Clinical Uncertainty Solved: Giant Cell Arteritis with Polymyalgia Rheumatica Swiftly Diagnosed with Long Axial Field of View PET. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:diagnostics12112694. [PMID: 36359537 PMCID: PMC9689496 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12112694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2022] [Revised: 10/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
The clinical presentation of giant cell arteritis (GCA) is often nonspecific. Differentiating GCA from infectious, malignant, or other autoimmune pathology based on signs, symptoms, and laboratory parameters may therefore be difficult. Fluorine-18-fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) imaging is an established tool in the diagnostic workup of GCA. An advantage of 18F-FDG-PET/CT is its ability to assist in the differential diagnosis by being able to demonstrate infection, inflammation, and malignancy when used in conjunction with clinical and laboratory data. Downsides to the use of 18F-FDG-PET/CT include its relatively low spatial resolution, associated radiation exposure, and the relatively long duration of imaging, causing limited availability and patient inconvenience. The advent of long axial field-of-view (LAFOV) PET/CT systems allows for PET imaging at a reduced imaging time or reduced tracer dose while maintaining high image quality. Here, we provide the first reported case of a patient with GCA and polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) diagnosed using LAFOV PET/CT imaging. The patient presented in this case report had already been experiencing nonspecific symptoms for several years for which no cause was found. Lab investigations showed increased inflammatory parameters as well as persistent anemia. 18F-FDG LAFOV PET/CT attained high-quality images with clear signs of GCA and PMR even at 1 min of scan duration.
Collapse
|
7
|
Cherk MH, Nadebaum DP, Barber TW, Beech P, Haydon A, Yap KS. 18 F-FDG PET/CT features of immune-related adverse events and pitfalls following immunotherapy. J Med Imaging Radiat Oncol 2022; 66:483-494. [PMID: 35191204 PMCID: PMC9303622 DOI: 10.1111/1754-9485.13390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
18F‐FDG PET/CT scanning is routinely performed to stage and evaluate the treatment response in many malignancies. Immunotherapy is a rapidly growing treatment option for many cancers, and both clinicians and imaging specialists need to be familiar with 18F‐FDG PET/CT imaging characteristics unique to patients on this type of treatment. In particular, many immune‐related adverse events (irAEs) can be detected on 18F‐FDG PET/CT and early accurate identification is critical to reduce treatment related morbidity and incorrect interpretation of malignant disease status. This pictorial essay reviews frequently encountered irAEs in clinical practice and their appearances on 18F‐FDG PET/CT along with a brief discussion on pseudoprogression and hyperprogression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Martin H Cherk
- Department of Nuclear Medicine & PET, Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - David P Nadebaum
- Department of Nuclear Medicine & PET, Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Thomas W Barber
- Department of Nuclear Medicine & PET, Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Paul Beech
- Department of Nuclear Medicine & PET, Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Andrew Haydon
- Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Medical Oncology, Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kenneth S Yap
- Department of Nuclear Medicine & PET, Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Schierz JH, Merkel C, Kittner T, Ali F. Vasculitis and bursitis on [ 18F]FDG-PET/CT following COVID-19 mRNA vaccine: post hoc ergo propter hoc? Eur J Nucl Med Mol Imaging 2022; 49:1086-1087. [PMID: 34495381 PMCID: PMC8424403 DOI: 10.1007/s00259-021-05553-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jan-Henning Schierz
- Department of Radiology, Municipal Hospital and Academic Teaching Hospital of the Technical University Dresden, Friedrichstraße 41, 01067, Dresden, Germany.
| | | | - Thomas Kittner
- Department of Radiology, Municipal Hospital and Academic Teaching Hospital of the Technical University Dresden, Friedrichstraße 41, 01067, Dresden, Germany
| | - Farzana Ali
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Emamifar A, Hess S, Ellingsen T, Gerke O, Ahangarani Farahani Z, Syrak Hansen P, Jensen Hansen IM, Thye-Rønn P. Clinical presentation and treatment response in patients with polymyalgia rheumatica and giant cell arteritis during a 40-week follow-up. Rheumatol Adv Pract 2021; 5:rkab091. [PMID: 34909566 PMCID: PMC8665449 DOI: 10.1093/rap/rkab091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives The aim was to study the clinical features of PMR/GCA and clinical predictors of treatment response during a 40-week follow-up period. Methods Clinical data on 77 patients with newly diagnosed PMR/GCA who were treated with oral glucocorticoids were gathered at baseline and during a 40-week follow-up period. A unilateral temporal artery biopsy (TAB) and 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) PET/CT were undertaken at diagnosis. In total, each patient was seen on five occasions (i.e. baseline and weeks 4, 16, 28 and 40). Treatment response was assessed by considering clinical evaluations and results of inflammatory markers. Results Of 77 patients [49 (63.6%) female; mean age 71.8 (8.0) years], 64 (83.1%) patients had pure PMR, 10 (13.0%) concomitant PMR and GCA, and 3 (3.9%) pure GCA. The patients reported that clinical symptoms, apart from scalp pain and duration of morning stiffness, improved significantly at week 4 and remained lower at week 40 compared with the relative frequencies at baseline. Besides, all components of physical examination showed significant improvement and remained lower at week 40 compared with the baseline. A complete response was seen in 68.7, 62.9, 44.1 and 33.3% of patients at weeks 4, 16, 28 and 40, respectively. Several clinical features, including female biological sex, younger age, fewer relapses and a lower level of baseline ESR, were significantly associated with a better treatment response. Treatment response during the follow-up period was independent of TAB results and fluorodeoxyglucose uptakes on 18F-FDG PET/CT at diagnosis. Conclusion Obtaining valid disease-specific outcome measures for evaluating treatment efficacy in PMR and GCA that can be applied universally is clearly an unmet clinical need. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov, https://clinicaltrials.gov, NCT02985424.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amir Emamifar
- Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Southern Denmark, Odense.,Diagnostic Center.,Department of Rheumatology, Svendborg Hospital, OUH, Svendborg.,OPEN, Odense Patient data Explorative Network, Odense University Hospital, Odense
| | - Søren Hess
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Hospital of Southwest Jutland, Esbjerg.,Institute of Regional Health Research, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Southern Denmark
| | - Torkell Ellingsen
- Rheumatology Research Unit, Odense University Hospital and University of Southern Denmark
| | - Oke Gerke
- Research Unit of Clinical Physiology and Nuclear Medicine, Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark.,Department of Nuclear Medicine, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | | | | | | | - Peter Thye-Rønn
- Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Southern Denmark, Odense.,Diagnostic Center
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Affiliation(s)
- Koichiro Yamamoto
- Department of General Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Japan
| | - Kosuke Oka
- Department of General Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Japan
| | - Kou Hasegawa
- Department of General Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Japan
| | - Fumio Otsuka
- Department of General Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Subesinghe M, Bhuva S, Arumalla N, Cope A, D'Cruz D, Subesinghe S. FDG PET-CT in rheumatological diseases. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2021; 61:1769-1782. [PMID: 34463703 PMCID: PMC9071551 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keab675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2021] [Revised: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
2-deoxy-2[18F]fluoro-D-glucose (FDG) PET-CT has revolutionized oncological imaging. The cellular processes that make cancer cells visible on FDG PET-CT also occur in a number of inflammatory cells. Exploiting this phenomenon has led to a growth of evidence supporting the use of FDG PET-CT in a wide range of infective and inflammatory diseases. Rheumatological diseases can affect multiple sites within the musculoskeletal system alongside multi-organ extra-articular disease manifestations. Inflammation is central to these diseases, making FDG PET-CT a logical choice. In this review article we describe the various applications of FDG PET-CT in rheumatological diseases using illustrative examples to highlight the beneficial role of FDG PET-CT in each case.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Manil Subesinghe
- King's College London & Guy's and St. Thomas' PET Centre, Guy's and St. Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.,Department of Cancer Imaging, School of Biomedical Engineering and Imaging Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Shaheel Bhuva
- King's College London & Guy's and St. Thomas' PET Centre, Guy's and St. Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.,Department of Cancer Imaging, School of Biomedical Engineering and Imaging Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Nikita Arumalla
- Department of Rheumatology, Guy's and St. Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Andrew Cope
- Department of Rheumatology, Guy's and St. Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.,Centre for Rheumatic Diseases, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
| | - David D'Cruz
- Department of Rheumatology, Guy's and St. Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Sujith Subesinghe
- Department of Rheumatology, Guy's and St. Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Shchetynska-Marinova T, Amendt K, Sadick M, Keese M, Sigl M. Aortitis - An Interdisciplinary Challenge. In Vivo 2021; 35:41-52. [PMID: 33402448 DOI: 10.21873/invivo.12230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2020] [Revised: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The term 'aortitis' comprises a heterogeneous spectrum of diseases, with varied etiology and clinical presentations, whose common characteristic is the inflammation of the aortic wall. Since aortitis can mimic almost all common cardiovascular disorders, its clinical recognition remains a challenge. Some cases of aortitis remain undetected for a long time and may be diagnosed after severe life-threatening complications have already arisen. The diagnosis of aortitis is based on the presence of homogeneous circumferential thickening of the aortic wall detected on aortic imaging, or typical histological features in combination with clinical findings and laboratory parameters. Management of aortitis is usually conservative (immunosuppressive drugs in noninfectious aortitis; antimicrobial drugs in infectious). However, if vascular complications such as aortic aneurysm, rupture, or steno-occlusive events appear, aortic surgery or endovascular therapy may be required. This review article summarizes the current knowledge regarding the etiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and treatment of inflammatory diseases of the aorta to promote better clinical management of these entities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tetyana Shchetynska-Marinova
- First Department of Medicine, University Medical Centre Mannheim, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Klaus Amendt
- Vascular Center Oberrhein, Internal Medicine I, Diakonissenkrankenhaus Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Maliha Sadick
- Clinic for Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University Medical Center Mannheim, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Michael Keese
- Department of Vascular Surgery, University Medical Centre Mannheim, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Martin Sigl
- First Department of Medicine, University Medical Centre Mannheim, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany;
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
El Hasbani G, Taher AT, Abi-Ghanem AS, Nassif S, Bizri AR, Uthman I. Polymyalgia rheumatica-like presentation in a case of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma: a diagnostic pitfall. J Int Med Res 2021; 49:3000605211018595. [PMID: 34044637 PMCID: PMC8168051 DOI: 10.1177/03000605211018595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) commonly presents with systemic manifestations including fever, weight loss, and night sweats. Uncommonly, patients with DLBCL can present with musculoskeletal manifestations mimicking polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR). Herein, the case of a 61-year-old woman who presented with pain in the bilateral shoulders, arms, hands, knees, pelvic girdle, and neck with bouts of fever, is presented. Laboratory workup for infectious and connective tissue diseases was non-revealing, except for elevated inflammatory markers. A positron emission tomography (PET)/computed tomography (CT) scan was suggestive of PMR, but also revealed enlarged lymph nodes initially thought to be reactive in nature. However, a lymph node biopsy showed findings consistent with DLBCL. This case highlights the importance of a thorough investigational workup when cases with features of PMR do not meet the proper criteria for this diagnosis to be made, in order not to miss a hematopoietic neoplasm with a PMR-like presentation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Georges El Hasbani
- Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Ali T Taher
- Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Alain S Abi-Ghanem
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Samer Nassif
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Abdul Rahman Bizri
- Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Imad Uthman
- Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Emamifar A, Ellingsen T, Hermann AP, Hess S, Gerke O, Ahangarani Farahani Z, Syrak Hansen P, Jensen Hansen IM, Thye-Rønn P. Prognostic impacts of glucocorticoid treatment in patients with polymyalgia rheumatica and giant cell arteritis. Sci Rep 2021; 11:6220. [PMID: 33737697 PMCID: PMC7973518 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-85857-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2020] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Identifying comorbidities in polymyalgia rheumatica/giant cell arteritis (PMR/GCA) is crucial for patients' outcomes. The present study aimed to evaluate the impact of the inflammatory process and glucocorticoid treatment on aortic arterial stiffness and body composition in PMR/GCA. 77 patients with newly diagnosed PMR/GCA were treated with oral glucocorticoids and followed for 40 weeks. Aortic pulse wave velocity (PWV) was measured at baseline and during the follow-up period and compared to the results of temporal artery biopsy (TAB) and 18F-FDG PET/CT. Body composition was assessed by total body DXA at baseline and the end of the study. Of 77 patients (49 (63.6%) female, mean of age: (71.8 ± 8.0)), 64 (83.1%) had pure PMR, 10 (13.0%) concomitant PMR and GCA, and 3 (3.9%) pure GCA. Compared to baseline values, aortic PWV was initially decreased at week 16 (p = 0.010) and remained lower than baseline at week 28 (p = 0.002) and week 40 (p < 0.001), with no association with results of TAB and 18F-FDG PET/CT. Aortic PWV was significantly associated with age, male gender, left systolic and diastolic blood pressure, right diastolic blood pressure, and CRP. Total bone mineral content (BMC) was decreased in both genders (p < 0.001), while fat mass (FM) was significantly increased (p < 0.001). However, lean body mass did not significantly change during the study. Changes in FM were correlated with cumulative prednisolone dose (rho: 0.26, p = 0.031). Glucocorticoid treatment of patients with PMR/GCA had several prognostic impacts. Arterial stiffness was decreased due either to the treatment or a reduction in the inflammatory load. Additionally, treatment led to changes in body composition, including a decrease in BMC and FM excess.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amir Emamifar
- Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.
- Diagnostic Center, Svendborg Hospital, OUH, Baagøes Allé 15, 5700, Svendborg, Denmark.
- Department of Rheumatology, Svendborg Hospital, OUH, Svendborg, Denmark.
- OPEN, Odense Patient Data Explorative Network, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark.
| | - Torkell Ellingsen
- Rheumatology Research Unit, Odense University Hospital and University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Anne Pernille Hermann
- Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
- Department of Endocrinology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Søren Hess
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Hospital of Southwest Jutland, Esbjerg, Denmark
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Institute of Regional Health Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Oke Gerke
- Research Unit of Clinical Physiology and Nuclear Medicine, Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | | | - Per Syrak Hansen
- Diagnostic Center, Svendborg Hospital, OUH, Baagøes Allé 15, 5700, Svendborg, Denmark
| | | | - Peter Thye-Rønn
- Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
- Diagnostic Center, Svendborg Hospital, OUH, Baagøes Allé 15, 5700, Svendborg, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Robinette ML, Rao DA, Monach PA. The Immunopathology of Giant Cell Arteritis Across Disease Spectra. Front Immunol 2021; 12:623716. [PMID: 33717128 PMCID: PMC7946968 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.623716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is a granulomatous systemic vasculitis of large- and medium-sized arteries that affects the elderly. In recent years, advances in diagnostic imaging have revealed a greater degree of large vessel involvement than previously recognized, distinguishing classical cranial- from large vessel (LV)- GCA. GCA often co-occurs with the poorly understood inflammatory arthritis/bursitis condition polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) and has overlapping features with other non-infectious granulomatous vasculitides that affect the aorta, namely Takayasu Arteritis (TAK) and the more recently described clinically isolated aortitis (CIA). Here, we review the literature focused on the immunopathology of GCA on the background of the three settings in which comparisons are informative: LV and cranial variants of GCA; PMR and GCA; the three granulomatous vasculitides (GCA, TAK, and CIA). We discuss overlapping and unique features between these conditions across clinical presentation, epidemiology, imaging, and conventional histology. We propose a model of GCA where abnormally activated circulating cells, especially monocytes and CD4+ T cells, enter arteries after an unknown stimulus and cooperate to destroy it and review the evidence for how this mechanistically occurs in active disease and improves with treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michelle L Robinette
- Division of Rheumatology, Inflammation, and Immunity, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Deepak A Rao
- Division of Rheumatology, Inflammation, and Immunity, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Paul A Monach
- Division of Rheumatology, Inflammation, and Immunity, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States.,Rheumatology Section, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Emamifar A, Ellingsen T, Hess S, Gerke O, Hviid Larsen R, Ahangarani Farahani Z, Syrak Hansen P, Jensen Hansen IM, Petersen H, Marcussen N, Dahlstrøm M, Toftegaard P, Thye-Rønn P. The Utility of 18F-FDG PET/CT in Patients With Clinical Suspicion of Polymyalgia Rheumatica and Giant Cell Arteritis: A Prospective, Observational, and Cross-sectional Study. ACR Open Rheumatol 2021; 2:478-490. [PMID: 33439554 PMCID: PMC7437127 DOI: 10.1002/acr2.11163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2020] [Accepted: 06/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective To define the proportions of agreement between fluorine‐18‐fluorodeoxyglucose (18F‐FDG) positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT), clinical diagnosis, and temporal artery biopsy (TAB) in patients with polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) and giant cell arteritis (GCA). Furthermore, the association of 18F‐FDG PET/CT uptake patterns and clinical presentation of newly diagnosed PMR and GCA was investigated. Methods Eighty patients newly suspected of having PMR, GCA, or concomitant PMR and GCA were included and followed for 40 weeks. Every patient underwent an 18F‐FDG PET/CT scan before or within 3 days of initiation of steroids in case of GCA. FDG uptakes in 8 paired articular/periarticular sites and 14 arterial segments were evaluated based on a 4‐point visual grading scale. Results Of the 80 patients (female: 50 [62.5%]; mean age ± SD: 72.0 ± 7.9), 64 (80.0%) patients were diagnosed with pure PMR, 3 (3.7%) with pure GCA, and 10 (12.5%) with concomitant PMR and GCA. Additionally, three (3.7%) patients were diagnosed with seronegative rheumatoid arthritis during the follow‐up period. For the diagnosis of PMR, 18F‐FDG PET/CT had a proportion of agreement of 75.3 (64.2‐84.4), compared with clinical diagnosis. When comparing findings of 18F‐FDG PET/CT with TAB, 18F‐FDG PET/CT had a proportion of agreement of 93.0 (84.3‐97.7) in all included patients and 69.2 (38.6‐90.9) in the subgroup of patients with vasculitis. C‐reactive protein was significantly higher in patients with PMR activity on 18F‐FDG PET/CT compared with those without 18F‐FDG PET/CT activity (P value = 0.006). Conclusions 18F‐FDG PET/CT is a powerful imaging technique in PMR and GCA that was in good agreement with clinical diagnosis and TAB.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amir Emamifar
- University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.,Svendborg Hospital, OUH, Svendborg, Denmark.,Odense Patient data Explorative Network (OPEN), Odense, Denmark
| | - Torkell Ellingsen
- University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.,Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Søren Hess
- University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.,Hospital of Southwest Jutland, Esbjerg, Denmark
| | - Oke Gerke
- University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.,Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | | | | | | | | | - Henrik Petersen
- University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.,Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Niels Marcussen
- University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.,Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | | | | | - Peter Thye-Rønn
- University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.,Svendborg Hospital, OUH, Svendborg, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Current Applications for Nuclear Medicine Imaging in Pulmonary Disease. CURRENT PULMONOLOGY REPORTS 2020; 9:82-95. [PMID: 32837866 PMCID: PMC7374080 DOI: 10.1007/s13665-020-00251-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Abstract
Purpose of Review The main goal of the article is to familiarize the reader with commonly and uncommonly used nuclear medicine procedures that can significantly contribute to improved patient care. The article presents examples of specific modality utilization in the chest including assessment of lung ventilation and perfusion, imaging options for broad range of infectious and inflammatory processes, and selected aspects of oncologic imaging. In addition, rapidly developing new techniques utilizing molecular imaging are discussed. Recent Findings The article describes nuclear medicine imaging modalities including gamma camera, SPECT, PET, and hybrid imaging (SPECT/CT, PET/CT, and PET/MR) in the context of established and emerging clinical applications. Areas of potential future development in nuclear medicine are discussed with emphasis on molecular imaging and implementation of new targeted tracers used in diagnostics and therapeutics (theranostics). Summary Nuclear medicine and molecular imaging provide many unique and novel options for the diagnosis and treatment of pulmonary diseases. This article reviews current applications for nuclear medicine and molecular imaging and selected future applications for radiopharmaceuticals and targeted molecular imaging techniques.
Collapse
|
18
|
Muscle involvement on 18F-FDG PET-CT in polymyalgia rheumatica. A controlled retrospective study of 101 patients. Joint Bone Spine 2020; 87:225-228. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jbspin.2020.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2019] [Accepted: 01/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
|
19
|
Expert Consensus on clinical application of FDG PET/CT in infection and inflammation. Ann Nucl Med 2020; 34:369-376. [DOI: 10.1007/s12149-020-01449-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2020] [Accepted: 02/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
|
20
|
Fruth M, Seggewiss A, Kozik J, Martin-Seidel P, Baraliakos X, Braun J. Diagnostic capability of contrast-enhanced pelvic girdle magnetic resonance imaging in polymyalgia rheumatica. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2020; 59:2864-2871. [DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keaa014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2019] [Revised: 12/19/2019] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Objective
There is currently no diagnostic test for PMR. A characteristic pattern of extracapsular inflammation as assessed by contrast-enhanced MRI (ceMRI) has recently been described in the pelvis of patients with PMR. We aimed to evaluate the performance of inflammatory ceMRI signals at predefined pelvic sites as a diagnostic test for PMR.
Methods
Pelvic MRI scans of patients with pelvic girdle pain (n = 120), including 40 patients with an expert diagnosis of PMR and 80 controls with other reasons for pelvic pain were scored by three blinded radiologists, who evaluated the degree of contrast enhancement at 19 predefined tendinous and capsular pelvic structures. Different patterns of involvement were analysed statistically.
Results
The frequency of bilateral peritendinitis and pericapsulitis including less common sites, such as the proximal origins of the m. rectus femoris and m. adductor longus, differed significantly between PMR cases and controls: 13.4 ± 2.7 vs 4.0 ± 2.3. A cut-off of ≥10 inflamed sites discriminated well between groups (sensitivity 95.8%, specificity 97.1%). Bilateral inflammation of the insertion of the proximal m. rectus femoris or adductor longus tendons together with ≥3 other bilaterally inflamed sites performed even better (sensitivity 100%, specificity 97.5%).
Conclusion
This study confirms that a distinctive MRI pattern of pelvic inflammation (bilateral peritendinitis and pericapsulitis and the proximal origins of the m. rectus femoris and m. adductor longus) is characteristic for PMR. The high sensitivity and specificity of the set of anatomical sites evaluated suggests their clinical usefulness as a confirmatory diagnostic test.
Collapse
|
21
|
An update on the unparalleled impact of FDG-PET imaging on the day-to-day practice of medicine with emphasis on management of infectious/inflammatory disorders. Eur J Nucl Med Mol Imaging 2019; 47:18-27. [DOI: 10.1007/s00259-019-04490-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2019] [Accepted: 08/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
|
22
|
[Hand ischemia and increased CRP level in a 75-year-old female patient]. Z Rheumatol 2019; 79:280-285. [PMID: 31197459 DOI: 10.1007/s00393-019-0655-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
The complexity of the diagnosis and therapy as well as the deficits in care are presented on the basis of the casuistry of a 75-year-old female patient with giant cell arteritis and a complicative course.
Collapse
|
23
|
Predictors of positive 18F-FDG PET/CT-scan for large vessel vasculitis in patients with persistent polymyalgia rheumatica. Semin Arthritis Rheum 2019; 48:720-727. [DOI: 10.1016/j.semarthrit.2018.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2018] [Revised: 05/03/2018] [Accepted: 05/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
|
24
|
Concomitant Polymyalgia Rheumatica and Large-Vessel Vasculitis Visualized on 18F-FDG PET/CT. Diagnostics (Basel) 2018; 8:diagnostics8020027. [PMID: 29690555 PMCID: PMC6023283 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics8020027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2018] [Revised: 04/19/2018] [Accepted: 04/20/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) and large-vessel vasculitis (LVV) are related rheumatic diseases which are occasionally present concomitantly. PMR is characterized by synovitis and bursitis. In LVV, inflammation of the blood vessel wall is seen. Both disorders can be difficult to diagnose since patients often present non-specific symptoms and results of blood tests. The non-specific symptoms cannot always be distinguished from symptoms indicating an occult malignancy. We present a case of PMR and LVV in a Scandinavian man visualized on [18F]-2-deoxy-D-glucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (18F-FDG PET/CT) with the presentation of typically affected sites of joints and arteries and with the same imaging modality ruling out occult malignancy.
Collapse
|