Treatment advances in systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis

Burden of comorbid conditions in children and young people with juvenile idiopathic arthritis: a collaborative analysis of 3 JIA registries

OBJECTIVES

Burden of comorbidities are largely unknown in JIA. From 2000, national and international patient registries were established to monitor biologic treatment, disease activity and adverse events in patients with JIA. The aim of this analysis was to investigate in parallel, for the first time, three of the largest JIA registries in Europe/internationally-UK JIA Biologic Registers (BCRD/BSPAR-ETN), German biologic registers (BiKeR/JuMBO), multinational Pharmachild-to quantify the occurrence of selected comorbidities in patients with JIA.

METHODS

Information on which data the registers collect were compared. Patient characteristics and levels of comorbidity were presented, focussing on four key conditions: uveitis, MAS, varicella, and history of tuberculosis. Incidence rates of these on MTX/biologic therapy were determined.

RESULTS

8066 patients were registered into the three JIA registers with similar history of the four comorbidities across the studies; however, varicella vaccination coverage was higher in Germany (56%) vs UK/Pharmachild (16%/13%). At final follow-up, prevalence of varicella infection was lower in Germany (15%) vs UK/Pharmachild (37%/50%). Prevalence of TB (0.1-1.8%) and uveitis (15-19%) was similar across all registers. The proportion of systemic-JIA patients who ever had MAS was lower in Germany (6%) vs UK (15%) and Pharmachild (17%).

CONCLUSION

This analysis is the first and largest to investigate the occurrence of four important comorbidities in three JIA registries in Europe and the role of anti-rheumatic drugs. Combined, these three registries represent one of the biggest collection of cases of JIA worldwide and offer a unique setting for future JIA outcome studies.

CANAKINUMAB IN SYSTEMIC JUVENILE IDIOPATHIC ARTHRITIS: REAL-LIFE DATA FROM A RETROSPECTIVE ITALIAN COHORT

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate in real-life the effectiveness and safety of canakinumab in Italian patients with systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis (sJIA).

METHODS

A retrospective multicentre study of children with sJIA was performed. Clinical features, laboratory parameters and adverse events were collected at baseline, after 6 and 12 months from starting canakinumab. The effectiveness primary outcome was clinical inactive disease (CID) off glucocorticoids (GCs) treatment at 6 months.

RESULTS

A total of 80 children were analyzed from 15 Italian centers. Of the 12 patients who started canakinumab in CID while receiving anakinra, all maintained CID. Of the 68 with active disease at baseline, 57.4% achieved CID off GCs at 6 months and 63.8% at 12 months. In univariate analysis, the variables significantly related with non-response were number of active joints (NAJ) ≥5, history of macrophage activation syndrome (MAS) and disease duration. Multivariate analysis confirmed the association with non-response of NAJ ≥5 (OR 6.37 (95%CI 1.69-24.02), p= 0.006) and history of MAS (OR 3.53 (95%CI 1.06-11.70), p= 0.039). No serious adverse events were recorded in this series. There were two cases of MAS during canakinumab, leading to a rate of 2.9 episodes per 100 patient year.

CONCLUSION

We confirm, in real-life, the efficacy of canakinumab in sJIA in a multicentric cohort. History of MAS and higher NAJ were associated with lower probability of achieving clinical inactive disease.

Effect of first-line biologic initiation on glucocorticoid exposure in children hospitalized with new-onset systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis: emulation of a pragmatic trial using observational data

BACKGROUND

Glucocorticoid exposure is a significant driver of morbidity in children with systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis (sJIA). We determined the effect of early initiation of biologic therapy (IL-1 or IL-6 inhibition) on glucocorticoid exposure in hospitalized patients with new-onset sJIA.

METHODS

We emulated a pragmatic sequence of trials ("pseudo-trials") of biologic initiation in children (≤ 18 years) hospitalized with new-onset sJIA utilizing retrospective data from an administrative database from 52 tertiary care children's hospitals from 2008 to 2019. Eligibility window, treatment assignment and start of follow-up between biologic and non-biologic study arms were aligned for each pseudo-trial. Patients in the source population could meet eligibility criteria at several timepoints. Mixed-effects logistic regression was used to determine the effect of biologic initiation on in-hospital glucocorticoid exposure.

RESULTS

Four hundred sixty-eight children met eligibility criteria, of which 19% received biologic therapy without preceding or concomitant initiation of immunomodulatory medications. This proportion significantly increased over time during the study period (p <  0.01). 1451 trial subjects were included across 4 pseudo-trials with 71 assigned to the biologic arm and 1380 assigned to the non-biologic arm. After adjustment, there was a trend toward decreased odds of glucocorticoid initiation in the biologic arm compared to the non-biologic arm (OR 0.39, 95% CI [0.13, 1.15]).

CONCLUSION

Biologic initiation in children hospitalized with new-onset sJIA significantly increased over time and may be associated with reduced glucocorticoid exposure. The increasing use of first-line biologic therapy may lead to clinically relevant reductions in treatment-related adverse effects of glucocorticoid-reliant therapeutic approaches.

An Integrative Transcriptomic Analysis of Systemic Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis for Identifying Potential Genetic Markers and Drug Candidates

Systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis (sJIA) is a rare subtype of juvenile idiopathic arthritis, whose clinical features are systemic fever and rash accompanied by painful joints and inflammation. Even though sJIA has been reported to be an autoinflammatory disorder, its exact pathogenesis remains unclear. In this study, we integrated a meta-analysis with a weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) using 5 microarray datasets and an RNA sequencing dataset to understand the interconnection of susceptibility genes for sJIA. Using the integrative analysis, we identified a robust sJIA signature that consisted of 2 co-expressed gene sets comprising 103 up-regulated genes and 25 down-regulated genes in sJIA patients compared with healthy controls. Among the 128 sJIA signature genes, we identified an up-regulated cluster of 11 genes and a down-regulated cluster of 4 genes, which may play key roles in the pathogenesis of sJIA. We then detected 10 bioactive molecules targeting the significant gene clusters as potential novel drug candidates for sJIA using an in silico drug repositioning analysis. These findings suggest that the gene clusters may be potential genetic markers of sJIA and 10 drug candidates can contribute to the development of new therapeutic options for sJIA.

Tocilizumab in Systemic Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis: Response Differs by Disease Duration at Medication Initiation and by Phenotype of Disease

Objective: We performed a single-center retrospective study to determine the different efficacy of tocilizumab (TCZ) in the early and late stages and in three phenotypic subgroups (monocyclic, polycyclic, and persistent) of systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis (sJIA). Methods: Clinical and serological parameters of 77 sJIA patients treated by TCZ were collected from November 1, 2013 to May 1, 2019. Patients were grouped based on the duration group A < 6 months (n = 41) and group B > 6 months (n = 36) and divided into three phenotypes: monocyclic (n = 12), polycyclic (n = 14), and persistent (n = 51) course. Results: At baseline, group A had pronounced ESR, fever less active arthritis than group B (p < 0.05). After 12 weeks of therapy, TCZ alleviated fever, ESR, CRP, and systemic-onset juvenile arthritis disease activity score-27 (sJADAS27) in both group A and group B (p>0.05), while the efficacy of TCZ in relieving active arthritis in group A was better than that in group B (p<0.05). After 1 year of TCZ therapy, it showed that patients with monocyclic phenotype had the highest clinical response rate (91.7%, odds ratio = 0, 95% CI: 24-24, p = 0.00), followed by the polycyclic (28.6%, odds ratio = 2.1, 95% CI: 10.5-18.8, p = 0.00) and the persistent course (9.8%, odds ratio = 1.2, 95% CI: 9.5-13.8, p = 0.00). Conclusion: TCZ can quickly relieve fever and inflammation, especially when patients have less active arthritis with shorter disease duration. The long-term efficacy of TCZ is related to the phenotypes, among which the monocyclic is the best, and the persistent is the worst.

Variation in treatment of children hospitalized with new-onset systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis in the United States

OBJECTIVE

Increasing evidence supports that early initiation of biologics may dramatically improve disease course and reduce glucocorticoid exposure for children with systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). We characterized variation in the use of first-line biologic and glucocorticoid therapy and identified drivers of variation in children hospitalized with new-onset systemic JIA.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of children hospitalized with new-onset systemic JIA from 2008-2019 utilizing a comparative pediatric database from 52 tertiary care children's hospitals. Subjects and treatment receipt were identified using International Classification of Diseases (ICD)-9 and ICD-10 discharge diagnosis codes, pharmacy billing data and clinical transaction classification codes. Mixed-effects logistic regression was used to identify patient and hospital-level factors associated with receipt of glucocorticoids and biologics.

RESULTS

534 children with new-onset systemic JIA hospitalized during the study period met inclusion criteria. Twenty-nine percent received biologics and 58% received glucocorticoids. Biologic use increased over time (p < 0.001), methotrexate use decreased (p < 0.01), and glucocorticoid use remained unchanged. Biologics and glucocorticoid use varied significantly between hospitals. High annual hospital volume, intensive care unit stay, and later discharge year were significantly associated with biologic exposure. Medium-high and high annual hospital volume were significantly associated with less glucocorticoid exposure.

CONCLUSION

Despite increasing evidence demonstrating improved outcomes with first-line treatment with biologics, we found significant treatment variation across hospitals with many children not receiving biologics and a persistent high rate of glucocorticoid exposure. These results underscore the need for comparative efficacy studies and improved treatment standardization.

[Injuries in children and adolescents with inflammatory rheumatic diseases : Special risks and techniques for fracture treatment of the growing skeleton]

BACKGROUND

Inflammatory rheumatic diseases in childhood and adolescence are a special challenge in the treatment of acute trauma. The pharmaceutical treatment strategies for children and adolescents have been modified.

OBJECTIVE

Which special aspects must be considered in young patients suffering from rheumatism when a trauma necessitates an operative procedure?

MATERIAL AND METHOD

A literature search was carried out to elaborate recommendations for the practice.

RESULTS

The joint-related alterations in young patients suffering from rheumatism differ with respect to the differently altered inflammatory rheumatic destruction. The extent of these inflammatory destructive alterations dictates the operative approach. Consequences arise in paying attention to the concurrent medication with respect to avoidance of events triggering an exacerbation and tissue infections. The bone strength necessitates an individualized selection of implants and sometimes influences the duration of follow-up treatment. In the early stages of the inflammatory process the approach in cases of trauma is no different to that for healthy patients but in later stages (Larsen stage III) it does differ.

CONCLUSION

An interdisciplinary concept can help to avoid disadvantages in the treatment of the underlying disease. Due to the special dysplastic anatomy and tissue alterations, trauma in these patients is a particular challenge.

[Therapeutic options in juvenile idiopathic arthritis : Part 1: Nonsurgical treatment]

The treatment of children and adolescents with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) has progressed substantially during recent years. Multiple different factors have played a role in this advancement: improved medical treatment due to the introduction of new drugs, structural improvements with provision of units specializing in childhood rheumatology, multidisciplinary treatment concepts, structured educational programs for patients and parents, improved functional treatment including sports therapy, and selective surgical and orthopedic interventions improving functional capacities. Current treatment strategies in JIA are aimed at achieving disease remission, i.e., control of disease activity and re-establishment of age-appropriate functional capacities. This review summarizes important developments in the conservative treatment of JIA. Part 2 deals with orthopedic and surgical treatment strategies.

[Still's disease in children and adults]

Systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis (sJIA) is characterized by fever, arthritis, and other signs of systemic inflammation. Historically, sJIA was named Still's disease after George Frederic Still, who first reported patients. Individuals who manifest after the 16^th birthday are diagnosed with adult onset Still's disease (AOSD). The pathophysiology of sJIA and AOSD are incompletely understood. Increased activation of inflammasomes and the expression of proinflammatory cytokines play a central role. S100 proteins, which can activate Toll-like receptors, thus, maintaining positive feedback loops, have also been detected at increased levels in sera from sJIA patients. Reduced expression of the immune-modulatory cytokine IL-10 may further contribute to immune cell activation and the production of proinflammatory molecules. Here, we discuss the clinical picture, differential diagnoses, the current pathophysiological understanding, and treatment options in sJIA and AOSD.

Using genes to triangulate the pathophysiology of granulomatous autoinflammatory disease: NOD2, PLCG2 and LACC1

The intersection of granulomatosis and autoinflammatory disease is a rare occurrence that can be generally subdivided into purely granulomatous phenotypes and disease spectra that are inclusive of granulomatous features. NOD2 (nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-containing protein 2)-related disease, which includes Blau syndrome and early-onset sarcoidosis, is the prototypic example of granulomatous inflammation in the context of monogenic autoinflammation. Granulomatous inflammation has also been observed in two related autoinflammatory diseases caused by mutations in PLCG2 (phospholipase Cγ2). More recently, mutations in LACC1 (laccase domain-containing protein 1) have been identified as the cause of a monogenic form of systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis, which does not itself manifest granulomatous inflammation, but the same LACC1 mutations have also been shown to cause an early-onset, familial form of a well-known granulomatous condition, Crohn's disease (CD). Rare genetic variants of PLCG2 have also been shown to cause a monogenic form of CD, and moreover common variants of all three of these genes have been implicated in polygenic forms of CD. Additionally, common variants of NOD2 and LACC1 have been implicated in susceptibility to leprosy, a granulomatous infection. Although no specific mechanistic link exists between these three genes, they form an intriguing web of susceptibility to both monogenic and polygenic autoinflammatory and granulomatous phenotypes.

IL1RN Variation Influences Both Disease Susceptibility and Response to Recombinant Human Interleukin-1 Receptor Antagonist Therapy in Systemic Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) susceptibility loci that were identified by candidate gene studies demonstrate association with systemic JIA in the largest study population assembled to date.

METHODS

Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) from 11 previously reported systemic JIA risk loci were examined for association in 9 populations, including 770 patients with systemic JIA and 6,947 controls. The effect of systemic JIA-associated SNPs on gene expression was evaluated in silico in paired whole genome and RNA sequencing data from the lymphoblastoid cell lines (LCLs) of 373 European subjects from the 1000 Genomes Project. Responses of systemic JIA-associated SNPs to anakinra treatment were evaluated in 38 US patients for whom treatment response data were available.

RESULTS

We found no association between the previously reported 26 SNPs and systemic JIA. Expanded analysis of the regions containing the 26 SNPs revealed only 1 significant association: the promoter region of IL1RN (P < 1 × 10-4 ). Systemic JIA-associated SNPs correlated with IL1RN expression in LCLs, with an inverse correlation between systemic JIA risk and IL1RN expression. The presence of homozygous IL1RN high expression alleles correlated strongly with a lack of response to anakinra therapy (odds ratio 28.7 [95% confidence interval 3.2-255.8]).

CONCLUSION

In our study, IL1RN was the only candidate locus associated with systemic JIA. The implicated SNPs are among the strongest known determinants of IL1RN and interleukin-1 receptor antagonist levels, linking low expression with increased systemic JIA risk. Homozygous high expression alleles predicted nonresponsiveness to anakinra therapy, making them ideal candidate biomarkers to guide systemic JIA treatment. This study is an important first step toward the personalized treatment of systemic JIA.

The role of IL-1 inhibition in systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis: current status and future perspectives

The pathogenesis, clinical course, and response to treatment in systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis (SJIA) differ from other types of juvenile idiopathic arthritis and are similar to other interleukin-1 (IL-1)-mediated diseases. The main cytokine involved in the pathogenesis of SJIA is IL-1β, which can be neutralized by targeted anti-IL-1 therapy. In SJIA, no antibodies have been found and there is growing evidence that it is mainly an autoinflammatory and not an autoimmune disease. Before the era of biologic therapy, treatment of SJIA was primarily based on long-term treatment with high doses of glucocorticosteroids (GCS). The side effects of GCS could have a significant impact on the outcome of the disease and could cause long-term damage. Treatment with anti-IL-1 agents early in the disease course has revolutionized the management principles of SJIA. However, not all SJIA patients respond equally well to anti-IL-1 therapy, and it has been shown that age at the onset of disease, duration of the disease, number of affected joints, neutrophil count, and ferritin level can predict the response to anti-IL-1 therapy. In particular, an elevated ferritin level should prompt testing for macrophage activation syndrome (MAS), the most severe complication of SJIA. Anti-IL-1 therapy has been shown to be effective also in patients with MAS. Although anti-IL-1 agents are currently not recommended as first-line treatment, there is growing evidence that anti-IL-1 agents introduced at the beginning of SJIA could enable lower doses and a shorter duration of GCS therapy, change the long-term disease outcome, and even influence molecular disease patterns. There are currently three anti-IL-1 agents available: anakinra, canakinumab, and rilonacept. In this review, we present the current knowledge on the pathogenesis of SJIA, the rational for anti-IL-1 treatment, and future perspectives on the treatment of SJIA.

The majority of patients with newly diagnosed juvenile idiopathic arthritis achieve a health-related quality of life that is similar to that of healthy peers: results of the German multicenter inception cohort (ICON)

Background

Achieving the best possible health-related quality of life (HRQoL) for a patient is an important treatment goal in juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). We investigated the 36-month trajectories of HRQoL in children with JIA compared with healthy peers and identified the predictors of an unfavorable HRQoL.

Methods

Patients with a recent JIA diagnosis were enrolled in the German inception cohort study ICON. As a peer group, friends of patients of the same age and sex were asked to cooperate. Children were prospectively followed and regularly questioned about their HRQoL using the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory 4.0 (PedsQL). Disease activity was assessed by the clinical Juvenile Arthritis Disease Activity Score (cJADAS-10), and the burden of the child’s chronic illness on their family was assessed by the Family Burden Questionnaire (FaBel). Linear mixed models were used to compare the HRQoL of the patients and their peers. Associations between the health status of a patient at enrollment and an unfavorable HRQoL (PedsQL total < 79.3) at their 3-year follow-up (FU) were analyzed by logistic regression.

Results

Data from 953 patients (median symptom duration 6 months, mean age 7.9 years) and 491 healthy peers (aged 8.4 years) were analyzed. During 3 years of FU, the disease activity and HRQoL of the patients improved significantly (cJADAS-10 from 9.8 (6.2) to 2.7 (3.6) and PedsQL total score from 71.7 (18.2) to 87.3 (13.9)). While the HRQoL of the patients varied among the several JIA categories at the time of enrollment, no significant differences were found at the 3-year FU. After 36 months, the HRQoL of the patients had largely converged with that of their healthy peers. JIA patients had a psychosocial health status comparable with their healthy peers, whereas a small significant mean difference remained in physical health (5.8, 95% confidence interval (CI) 4.1–7.6). Up to the 36-month FU, three-quarters of JIA patients attained a favorable HRQoL (PedsQL ≥ 79.3) which was achieved by 90% of the peers. A higher family burden, higher pain level, and lower well-being at enrollment were associated with an unfavorable HRQoL.

Conclusions

Under current therapeutic conditions, an HRQoL corresponding with that of healthy children is a realistic treatment goal in JIA.

Outcome and Trends in Treatment of Systemic Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis in the German National Pediatric Rheumatologic Database, 2000-2013

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the clinical presentation and medical treatment of patients with systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) during the first year of illness. Our study focused on 3-year outcomes in a subsample of patients who were followed up longitudinally.

METHODS

From 2000 to 2013, 597 patients with systemic JIA and a disease duration of ≤12 months were recorded in the National Pediatric Rheumatologic Database. Among those patients, 3-year outcome data were available for 133. These data included the clinical Juvenile Arthritis Disease Activity Score in 10 joints (JADAS-10) and the physician's global assessment score (on a numerical rating scale), as well as assessment of joint involvement, growth retardation, and patient-reported outcomes.

RESULTS

The median clinical JADAS-10 declined significantly, from 7 in 2000 to 2 in 2013, while the proportion of patients with inactive disease increased from 19% in 2000 to 41% in 2013. The rate of treatment with systemic glucocorticoids and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) remained stable from 2000 to 2013. By 2013, the proportion of patients with systemic JIA who were treated with biologic DMARDs had increased to 20%. At 3-year follow-up, 72% of patients with systemic JIA had inactive disease, and 77% had no functional limitations. Growth retardation was associated with persistently high disease activity and continuing treatment with systemic glucocorticoids. At the 3-year follow-up, one-third of patients were still being treated with systemic glucocorticoids.

CONCLUSION

The proportion of patients with inactive disease has increased over the past decade. Possible explanations may include improved access to specialized care, additional treatment options, and earlier or faster step-up treatment. However, challenges in the management of systemic JIA remain, as ∼30% of patients continue to present with ongoing active disease.

New frontiers in the treatment of systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis

Systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis (sJIA) and its most significant complication, macrophage activation syndrome (MAS), have traditionally been treated with steroids and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications. However, the introduction of biologic medications that inhibit specific cytokines, such interleukins 1 and 6, has changed the treatment paradigm for sJIA patients. In this review, we discuss the therapies currently used in the treatment of sJIA as well as novel targets and approaches under consideration, including mesenchymal stromal cell therapy and JAK inhibitors. We also discuss targeting cytokines that have been implicated in MAS, such as interferon gamma and interleukin 18.

Genetic architecture distinguishes systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis from other forms of juvenile idiopathic arthritis: clinical and therapeutic implications

OBJECTIVES

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is a heterogeneous group of conditions unified by the presence of chronic childhood arthritis without an identifiable cause. Systemic JIA (sJIA) is a rare form of JIA characterised by systemic inflammation. sJIA is distinguished from other forms of JIA by unique clinical features and treatment responses that are similar to autoinflammatory diseases. However, approximately half of children with sJIA develop destructive, long-standing arthritis that appears similar to other forms of JIA. Using genomic approaches, we sought to gain novel insights into the pathophysiology of sJIA and its relationship with other forms of JIA.

METHODS

We performed a genome-wide association study of 770 children with sJIA collected in nine countries by the International Childhood Arthritis Genetics Consortium. Single nucleotide polymorphisms were tested for association with sJIA. Weighted genetic risk scores were used to compare the genetic architecture of sJIA with other JIA subtypes.

RESULTS

The major histocompatibility complex locus and a locus on chromosome 1 each showed association with sJIA exceeding the threshold for genome-wide significance, while 23 other novel loci were suggestive of association with sJIA. Using a combination of genetic and statistical approaches, we found no evidence of shared genetic architecture between sJIA and other common JIA subtypes.

CONCLUSIONS

The lack of shared genetic risk factors between sJIA and other JIA subtypes supports the hypothesis that sJIA is a unique disease process and argues for a different classification framework. Research to improve sJIA therapy should target its unique genetics and specific pathophysiological pathways.

[Still's disease in children and adults]

Systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis (sJIA) is characterized by fever, arthritis, and other signs of systemic inflammation. Historically, sJIA was named Still's disease after George Frederic Still, who first reported patients. Individuals who manifest after the 16^th birthday are diagnosed with adult onset Still's disease (AOSD). The pathophysiology of sJIA and AOSD are incompletely understood. Increased activation of inflammasomes and the expression of proinflammatory cytokines play a central role. S100 proteins, which can activate Toll-like receptors, thus, maintaining positive feedback loops, have also been detected at increased levels in sera from sJIA patients. Reduced expression of the immune-modulatory cytokine IL-10 may further contribute to immune cell activation and the production of proinflammatory molecules. Here, we discuss the clinical picture, differential diagnoses, the current pathophysiological understanding, and treatment options in sJIA and AOSD.

IL-1 Inhibition in Systemic Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis

Systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis (sJIA) is the form of childhood arthritis whose treatment is most challenging. The demonstration of the prominent involvement of interleukin (IL)-1 in disease pathogenesis has provided the rationale for the treatment with biologic medications that antagonize this cytokine. The three IL-1 blockers that have been tested so far (anakinra, canakinumab, and rilonacept) have all been proven effective and safe, although only canakinumab is currently approved for use in sJIA. The studies on IL-1 inhibition in sJIA published in the past few years suggest that children with fewer affected joints, higher neutrophil count, younger age at disease onset, shorter disease duration, or, possibly, higher ferritin level may respond better to anti-IL-1 treatment. In addition, it has been postulated that use of IL-1 blockade as first-line therapy may take advantage of a "window of opportunity," in which disease pathophysiology can be altered to prevent the occurrence of chronic arthritis. In this review, we analyze the published literature on IL-1 inhibitors in sJIA and discuss the rationale underlying the use of these medications, the results of therapeutic studies, and the controversial issues.

Management of Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis: A Clinical Guide

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is the most common chronic rheumatic disease of childhood. The outcome in patients with JIA has markedly improved with the advent of biologic drugs. Although early aggressive therapy with biologics seems to be very effective, this approach leads to overtreatment in patients who would respond to classic disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs. Therefore, methotrexate remains first-line long-term therapy for most children with polyarticular JIA. Tumor necrosis factor-α inhibitors have shown tremendous benefit in children with refractory non-systemic JIA. Similar effects have been observed with interleukin-1 and interleukin-6 blockade in patients with systemic JIA. Correct choice and timely use of available medications to achieve early and sustained remission with as few side effects as possible remain challenges for the treating physician. In this review, a practical, clinically oriented guide to the management of JIA is provided, focusing on pharmacological treatment with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, intra-articular and systemic corticosteroids, disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs, and biologic agents. In addition, issues regarding treatment failure, early aggressive treatment, and drug tapering are discussed, with alternative treatment options being suggested.

The risk of hospitalized infection following initiation of biologic agents versus methotrexate in the treatment of juvenile idiopathic arthritis

Background

In the present study, we compared the incidence of hospitalized infection among children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) following initiation of treatment with biologic agents versus methotrexate (MTX).

Methods

We used national Medicaid claims data from 2000 through 2010 to create cohorts of children with JIA who were new users of tumor necrosis factor inhibitors (TNFi), anakinra, and MTX (without concurrent biologic agent use) as defined by a 6-month baseline period of nonuse. Because most anakinra users have systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis (SJIA), we used claims to identify MTX users who likely had SJIA. Among TNFi users, concurrent MTX use was a time-varying covariate. The study outcome was a primary hospital discharge diagnosis of infection. We calculated adjusted hazard ratios (aHRs) to compare infection rates between biologic agents and MTX.

Results

We identified 3075 new MTX users (160 with SJIA), 2713 new TNFi users, and 247 new anakinra users. There was no increased risk of infection associated with TNFi monotherapy versus MTX (aHR 1.19, 95 % CI 0.72–1.94) or with TNFi + MTX combination therapy versus MTX (aHR 1.23, 95 % CI 0.69–2.17). Baseline high-dose oral glucocorticoid use (≥10 mg/day of prednisone) was associated with infection (aHR 2.03 [95 % CI 1.21–3.39] versus no oral glucocorticoid). Anakinra was associated with infection versus MTX (aHR 3.53 95 % CI 1.83–6.82), but less so compared with MTX users with SJIA (aHR 2.69, 95 % CI 0.82–8.82).

Conclusions

Neither TNFi monotherapy nor TNFi + MTX combination therapy was significantly associated with hospitalized infection compared with MTX. Anakinra was significantly associated with infection, but there was likely residual confounding by disease phenotype.

Factors associated with choice of biologic among children with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis: results from two UK paediatric biologic registers

OBJECTIVE

The objectives of this study were to describe patients starting first-line biologics for JIA, to describe characteristics over time among patients starting etanercept, and to describe patterns of second biologic prescribing.

METHODS

The British Society for Paediatric and Adolescent Rheumatology Etanercept Cohort Study, and the Biologics for Children with Rheumatic Diseases study are ongoing prospective observational cohorts, collecting data on patients starting biologic therapy for JIA. Patients registered from 1 January 2010 starting their first biologic were compared between therapies. Patients starting etanercept before 2010 were included to analyse changes in etanercept prescribing. The pathway of patients starting a second biologic was recorded in all patients.

RESULTS

To 26 August 2014, 931 patients were recruited starting a first-line biologic (142 Biologics for Children with Rheumatic Diseases; 789 British Society for Paediatric and Adolescent Rheumatology Etanercept Cohort Study). From 2010, patients with systemic JIA (sJIA) were almost exclusively prescribed anakinra or tocilizumab. Choice between anti-TNF therapies was largely driven by history of chronic anterior uveitis (CAU). When investigating trends in patients starting etanercept over time, disease duration at etanercept start, patients with sJIA, a history of CAU, and those who received concomitant oral corticosteroids decreased over time. Patients who started a second biologic from 1 January 2010 showed a similar stratification.

CONCLUSION

Although etanercept remains the most common biologic prescribed for JIA, there has been a clear shift towards the use of alternative biologics, largely driven by disease subtype and history of CAU. This channelling of children towards specific therapies should be considered carefully in future studies and in clinical guidelines and ongoing research.

Effect of miR-19a and miR-21 on the JAK/STAT signaling pathway in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells of patients with systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis

Overexpression of the components of the Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK/STAT) signaling pathway are key factors of the pathogenic mechanisms underlying systematic juvenile idiopathic arthritis (SJIA). The present study aimed to investigate the association between microRNA (miR)-19a, miR-21 and the JAK/STAT signaling pathway. A total of 20 patients with SJIA were included in the study, and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from 20 normal controls were also collected. RNAiso was used to extract total RNA, and the RNA was then reverse transcribed into cDNA. Primers were designed to detect the mRNA of miR-19a and miR-21, and U6 was set as the internal parameter. In addition, the mRNA of STAT3, suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 (SOCS3), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) was detected, and β-actin was set as the internal parameter. Reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction was performed to detect the expression levels of these proteins in patients with SJIA and control subjects, and non-parametric tests were used to analyze the statistical differences in 2^-ΔΔCq between the two groups. The expression levels of miR-19a and miR-21 were significantly lower in the SJIA group compared with the control group (P<0.05). SOCS3, TNF-α and STAT3 were shown to be the target genes of miR-19a and miR-21, as determined by Targetscan. The expression levels of STAT3, SOCS3, TNF-α and IL-6 mRNA were significantly higher compared with those of the control group (P<0.05). In the PBMCs of sthe patients with SJIA, miR-19a and miR-21 expression levels were lower compared with those of the control group, and the JAK/STAT signaling pathway was activated, which indicated that miR-19a and miR-21 may participate in the activation of the JAK/STAT signaling pathway.

Development of a Rheumatology-specific Patient Concerns Inventory and Its Use in the Rheumatology Outpatient Clinic Setting

Objective.

Successful management of rheumatic conditions involves increasing complexity of care. Delivering this in a holistic way is a growing challenge. The aim of our study was to develop a Patient Concerns Inventory (PCI) and assess it in the rheumatology clinic setting.

Methods.

This observational exploratory study occurred with 2 phases. In phase I, the PCI was developed after a systematic literature search, expert opinion, and 3 patient focus group discussions. In phase II, the PCI was piloted in a general rheumatology clinic.

Results.

Fifty-four patients were assessed in the pre-PCI group and 51 in the post-PCI group. Median (IQR) duration of consultation was 8 min (5–14) without PCI and 15 min (10–20) with PCI. The pre-PCI group raised 335 concerns from 50 patients, median (IQR) of 5 (3–10) per patient, rising post-PCI to 521 concerns, median (IQR) of 9 (5–16) from 51 patients, p = 0.002. Additional concerns predominantly arose from “physical and functional well-being” and “social care and well-being” domains. Most patients rated their experience with their doctor in the consultation as excellent or outstanding across all 11 questions in the questionnaire, both before and after the introduction of the PCI to the clinic setting.

Conclusion.

The PCI is a useful holistic needs assessment tool for rheumatology clinics. Although its use may initially prolong the consultation slightly, patients can raise a significantly higher number of concerns, which does not occur at the expense of patient satisfaction. This may help in identifying areas of unmet needs that previously went unnoticed.

The majority of newly diagnosed patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis reach an inactive disease state within the first year of specialised care: data from a German inception cohort

Objective

To describe the disease characteristics of patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) included in an inception cohort, to analyse how many patients from each JIA category reach an inactive disease state within the first year of specialised care and to determine predictors for attaining inactive disease.

Methods

Patients with JIA were enrolled in this study at 11 large German paediatric rheumatology units within the first 12 months after diagnosis. Laboratory and clinical parameters such as JIA core criteria and data on the medication used were collected every 3 months. Non-parametric statistical testing was performed for the comparison of the JIA core criteria at follow-up. Generalised linear models were used to analyse differences in the rates at which inactive disease was reached and to determine potential predictors.

Results

Of the 695 patients with JIA included in this analysis, approximately 75% experienced a period of inactive disease under treatment with disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs and systemic steroids in most cases with systemic-onset JIA or polyarthritis at least once during the first 12 months in ICON. Significant improvements were observed in all JIA core criteria, in disease activity and in functional status from baseline to the 12-month follow-up. Younger age at onset, a shorter duration between symptom onset and diagnosis and a positive antinuclear antibody status increased the probability of attaining an inactive disease state.

Conclusions

The 12-month outcome of JIA was good under real-life conditions, with half of the patients having attained inactive disease with contemporary treatments. Since a short duration between symptom onset and diagnosis was correlated to a period of inactive disease, children suspected of having JIA should be transferred to specialised care as soon as possible.

Tocilizumab in systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis in a real-world clinical setting: results from 1 year of postmarketing surveillance follow-up of 417 patients in Japan

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the safety and effectiveness of tocilizumab (TCZ) in patients with systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis (sJIA) in real-world clinical settings in Japan.

METHODS

Paediatric patients with sJIA initiating TCZ between April 2008 and February 2012 and those previously enrolled in clinical trials who initiated TCZ before April 2008 were enrolled in a Japanese registry surveillance programme. Safety and effectiveness parameters were collected for 52 weeks.

RESULTS

Of 417 patients enrolled, mean age was 11.2 years and 48.0% were female. TCZ exposure was 407.0 patient-years (PYs). Baseline corticosteroid use was higher than in clinical trials. Rates of total adverse events (AEs) and serious AEs (SAEs) were 224.3/100 PYs and 54.5/100 PYs, respectively, with SAEs higher than previously reported. The most frequent AEs and SAEs were infections and infestations (69.8/100 PYs and 18.2/100 PYs, respectively). 74 serious infections occurred in 55 patients (18.2/100 PYs); higher than previously reported. 26 macrophage activation syndrome events were reported in 24 patients (6.4/100 PYs). Fever and rash symptoms improved from baseline to week 52 (54.6% to 5.6% and 43.0% to 5.6%, respectively). At 4 weeks, 8 weeks and 52 weeks, 90.5%, 96.2% and 99.0% of patients achieved normal C reactive protein levels (<0.3 mg/dL), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

These first real-world data demonstrated that TCZ was well tolerated, with acceptable safety and effectiveness in patients with sJIA. Higher incidences of SAEs and serious infections may be due to differences, such as corticosteroid use and concomitant diseases, between patient populations enrolled in previously reported clinical trials and this study.