1
|
Kaniecki T, Hughes M, McMahan Z. Managing gastrointestinal manifestations in systemic sclerosis, a mechanistic approach. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2024; 20:603-622. [PMID: 38406978 PMCID: PMC11098704 DOI: 10.1080/1744666x.2024.2320205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a connective tissue disease with heterogeneous presentation. Gastrointestinal (GI) complications of SSc are characterized by esophageal reflux, abnormal motility, and microbiome dysbiosis, which impact patient quality of life and mortality. Preventative therapeutics are lacking, with management primarily aimed at symptomatic control. AREAS COVERED A broad literature review was conducted through electronic databases and references from key articles. We summarize the physiology of gastric acid production and GI motility to provide context for existing therapies, detail the current understanding of SSc-GI disease, and review GI medications studied in SSc. Finally, we explore new therapeutic options. We propose a management strategy that integrates data on drug efficacy with knowledge of disease pathophysiology, aiming to optimize future therapeutic targets. EXPERT OPINION SSc-GI complications remain a challenge for patients, clinicians, and investigators alike. Management presently focuses on treating symptoms and minimizing mucosal damage. Little evidence exists to suggest immunosuppressive therapy halts progression of GI involvement or reverses damage, leaving many unanswered questions about the optimal clinical approach. Further research focused on identifying patients at risk for GI progression, and the underlying mechanism(s) that drive disease will provide opportunities to prevent long-term damage, and significantly improve patient quality of life.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Timothy Kaniecki
- Division of Rheumatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Michael Hughes
- Department of Rheumatology, Northern Care Alliance NHS Foundation Trust, Salford Care Organisation, Salford, US
- Division of Musculoskeletal and Dermatological Sciences, The University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Zsuzsanna McMahan
- Division of Rheumatology, UTHealth Houston McGovern Medical School, Houston, TX
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Amati F, Bongiovanni G, Tonutti A, Motta F, Stainer A, Mangiameli G, Aliberti S, Selmi C, De Santis M. Treatable Traits in Systemic Sclerosis. Clin Rev Allergy Immunol 2023; 65:251-276. [PMID: 37603199 DOI: 10.1007/s12016-023-08969-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a chronic systemic disease within the spectrum of connective tissue diseases, specifically characterized by vascular abnormalities and inflammatory and fibrotic involvement of the skin and internal organs resulting in high morbidity and mortality. The clinical phenotype of SSc is heterogeneous, and serum autoantibodies together with the extent of skin involvement have a predictive value in the risk stratification. Current recommendations include an organ-based management according to the predominant involvement with only limited individual factors included in the treatment algorithm. Similar to what has been proposed for other chronic diseases, we hypothesize that a "treatable trait" approach based on relevant phenotypes and endotypes could address the unmet needs in SSc stratification and treatment to maximize the outcomes. We provide herein a comprehensive review and a critical discussion of the literature regarding potential treatable traits in SSc, focusing on established and candidate biomarkers, with the purpose of setting the bases for a precision medicine-based approach. The discussion, structured based on the organ involvement, allows to conjugate the pathogenetic mechanisms of tissue injury with the proposed predictors, particularly autoantibodies and other serum biomarkers. Ultimately, we are convinced that precision medicine is the ideal guide to manage a complex condition such as SSc for which available treatments are largely unsatisfactory.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Amati
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy
- Respiratory Unit, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Gabriele Bongiovanni
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy
- IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Antonio Tonutti
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy
- IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesca Motta
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Anna Stainer
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy
- Respiratory Unit, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Mangiameli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Stefano Aliberti
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy
- Respiratory Unit, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Carlo Selmi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy.
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan, Italy.
| | - Maria De Santis
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Cheah JX, Perin J, Volkmann ER, Hummers LK, Pasricha PJ, Wigley FM, McMahan ZH. Slow Colonic Transit in Systemic Sclerosis: An Objective Assessment of Risk Factors and Clinical Phenotype. Arthritis Care Res (Hoboken) 2023; 75:289-298. [PMID: 34369086 PMCID: PMC8825888 DOI: 10.1002/acr.24767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Revised: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Up to 50% of patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc) experience slow colonic transit, which may be associated with severe outcomes. Our objective, therefore, was to identify specific clinical features associated with slow colonic transit in SSc. METHODS SSc patients with gastrointestinal symptoms were prospectively enrolled and completed a scintigraphy-based whole gut transit study. Clinical features were compared between patients with and without slow colonic transit in univariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses. RESULTS Forty-eight of 100 patients (48%) in our cohort had slow colonic transit. In the univariate analyses, slow colonic transit was positively associated with female sex (odds ratio [OR] 12.61 [95% confidence interval (95% CI) 1.56-101.90]), telangiectasia (OR 4.00 [95% CI 1.32-12.10]), anticentromere antibodies (OR 3.25 [95% CI 1.25-8.44]), prior or current smoking (OR 2.56 [95% CI 1.06-6.21]), and a Medsger gastrointestinal severity score of ≥3 (OR 3.94 [95% CI 1.16-13.36]). Patients were less likely to have significant restriction on pulmonary function tests (OR 0.23 [95% CI 0.09-0.63]). In our multivariable model, the association between slow colonic transit and telangiectasia (OR 3.97 [95% CI 1.20-13.20]) and less restrictive lung disease on pulmonary function tests (OR 0.28 [95% CI 0.09-0.86]) remained statistically significant, though a trend with smoking remained (OR 2.16 [95% CI 0.82-5.75]). Interestingly, there were no significant associations between slow colonic transit and delayed transit in other regions of the gastrointestinal tract. CONCLUSION Distinct clinical features are associated with slow colonic transit in SSc. Such features may provide insight in risk stratification and the study of disease mechanism in more homogeneous subgroups.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jenice X Cheah
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Jamie Perin
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
Nassar M, Ghernautan V, Nso N, Nyabera A, Castillo FC, Tu W, Medina L, Ciobanu C, Alfishawy M, Rizzo V, Eskaros S, Mahdi M, Khalifa M, El-Kassas M. Gastrointestinal involvement in systemic sclerosis: An updated review. Medicine (Baltimore) 2022; 101:e31780. [PMID: 36397401 PMCID: PMC9666124 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000031780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The gastrointestinal tract (GI) is the second most affected organ system in individuals suffering from systemic/localized scleroderma (SSc) or localized scleroderma. SSc can affect any part of the GI, between the oral cavity and anorectum. The annual incidence of SSc in the United States is estimated to be 19.3 cases per million adults, with the highest incidence reported in people aged 44 to 55. Females are 5 times more likely than males to suffer from SSc. Morbidity and mortality rates associated with SSc are predominantly elevated among patients with GI manifestations. Esophageal and intestinal manifestations impact 90% and 40% to 70% of patients with systemic scleroderma, respectively. SSc patients are known to suffer from small bowel hypomotility and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, which cause malabsorption and malnutrition, ultimately contributing to the 50% mortality rate. Fecal incontinence is a common symptom of SSc that can lead to depression. SSc patients may suffer from gastrointestinal complications that can negatively impact their quality of life on a daily basis. Multidisciplinary approaches are necessary for systematically managing gastrointestinal complications associated with SSc. A prospective study should focus on developing targeted therapies to improve recovery patterns and prognosis in cases of SSc. This article summarizes the epidemiology, commonly reported clinical manifestations, complications, and available treatments for treating GI pathology in SSc patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mahmoud Nassar
- Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, NYC Health+Hospitals, Queens, NY, USA
| | - Victoria Ghernautan
- Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, NYC Health+Hospitals, Queens, NY, USA
| | - Nso Nso
- Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, NYC Health+Hospitals, Queens, NY, USA
| | - Akwe Nyabera
- Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, NYC Health+Hospitals, Queens, NY, USA
| | - Francisco Cuevas Castillo
- Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, NYC Health+Hospitals, Queens, NY, USA
| | - Wan Tu
- Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, NYC Health+Hospitals, Queens, NY, USA
| | - Luis Medina
- Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, NYC Health+Hospitals, Queens, NY, USA
| | | | - Mostafa Alfishawy
- Internal Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Vincent Rizzo
- Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, NYC Health+Hospitals, Queens, NY, USA
| | - Saphwat Eskaros
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, NYC Health+Hospitals, Queens, NY, USA
| | - Mamdouh Mahdi
- Internal Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Helwan University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Khalifa
- Hospital Management Department, Helwan University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mohamed El-Kassas
- Endemic Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Helwan University, Cairo, Egypt
- * Correspondence: Mohamed El-Kassas, Endemic Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Helwan University, Ain Helwan 11795 Cairo, Egypt (e-mail: )
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Volkmann ER, McMahan Z. Gastrointestinal involvement in systemic sclerosis: pathogenesis, assessment and treatment. Curr Opin Rheumatol 2022; 34:328-336. [PMID: 35993874 PMCID: PMC9547962 DOI: 10.1097/bor.0000000000000899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The majority of patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc) will experience involvement of their gastrointestinal over the course of their disease. Despite the high prevalence of gastrointestinal involvement in SSc, the strategies pertaining to the assessment and treatment for this clinical dimension of SSc have historically been limited. However, the present review highlights recent research contributions that enhance our understanding of SSc-GI patient subsets and provides updates on pathogenic mechanisms of disease, assessment and symptom-directed management. RECENT FINDINGS In the past few years, several studies have identified risk factors for more severe gastrointestinal disease in SSc and have provided insight to optimize diagnosis and management of SSc-GI symptoms. This article also provides a review of currently available investigations and therapies for individual SSc-GI disease manifestations and reflects on actively evolving areas of research, including our understanding the role of the gut microbiome in SSc. SUMMARY Here, we provide important updates pertaining to the risk stratification, assessment, diagnosis and management of SSc patients with gastrointestinal symptoms. These findings provide opportunities to enhance patient care and highlight exciting opportunities for future research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth R. Volkmann
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Zsuzsanna McMahan
- Division of Rheumatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Bratoiu I, Burlui AM, Cardoneanu A, Macovei LA, Richter P, Rusu-Zota G, Rezus C, Badescu MC, Szalontay A, Rezus E. The Involvement of Smooth Muscle, Striated Muscle, and the Myocardium in Scleroderma: A Review. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231912011. [PMID: 36233313 PMCID: PMC9569846 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231912011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 09/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a complex autoimmune disease characterized by heterogeneous changes involving numerous organs and systems. The currently available data indicate that muscle injury (both smooth and striated muscles) is widespread and leads to significant morbidity, either directly or indirectly. From the consequences of smooth muscle involvement in the tunica media of blood vessels or at the level of the digestive tract, to skeletal myopathy (which may be interpreted strictly in the context of SSc, or as an overlap with idiopathic inflammatory myopathies), muscular injury in scleroderma translates to a number of notable clinical manifestations. Heart involvement in SSc is heterogenous depending on the definition used in the various studies. The majority of SSc patients experience a silent form of cardiac disease. The present review summarizes certain important features of myocardial, as well as smooth and skeletal muscle involvement in SSc. Further research is needed to fully describe and understand the pathogenic pathways and the implications of muscle involvement in scleroderma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ioana Bratoiu
- Department of Rheumatology and Physiotherapy, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 University Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Alexandra Maria Burlui
- Department of Rheumatology and Physiotherapy, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 University Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania
- Correspondence: (A.M.B.); (C.R.)
| | - Anca Cardoneanu
- Department of Rheumatology and Physiotherapy, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 University Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Luana Andreea Macovei
- Department of Rheumatology and Physiotherapy, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 University Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Patricia Richter
- Department of Rheumatology and Physiotherapy, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 University Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Gabriela Rusu-Zota
- Department of Pharmacology, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 University Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Ciprian Rezus
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 Universitatii Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania
- Correspondence: (A.M.B.); (C.R.)
| | - Minerva Codruta Badescu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 Universitatii Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Andreea Szalontay
- Department of Psychiatry, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 University Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Elena Rezus
- Department of Rheumatology and Physiotherapy, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 University Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Le C, Zeffren N, Kramer N, Rosenstein ED. Rheumatologic Associations of Microscopic Colitis: A Narrative Review. Mod Rheumatol 2022; 33:441-447. [PMID: 35993773 DOI: 10.1093/mr/roac080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Revised: 05/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Extra-intestinal manifestations are frequent complications of the classical inflammatory bowel diseases, Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. However, in addition to the classical diseases, there is a spectrum of conditions, often termed "microscopic colitis", in which extra-intestinal manifestations are less well described. Our objective was to review the literature regarding the extra-intestinal manifestations complicating microscopic colitis and describe the association with systemic autoimmune rheumatic diseases. A comprehensive search and review of peer-reviewed English-language and international journals and reports was completed based on key terms, including "microscopic colitis", "lymphocytic colitis", "collagenous colitis", "inflammatory bowel disease", "extraintestinal manifestations", and the specific disease associations utilizing the PubMed Central database and MEDLINE. A broad spectrum of rheumatologic manifestations has been reported in patients with microscopic colitis. The identification of rheumatoid arthritis and limited scleroderma as co-morbidities with microscopic colitis was noteworthy. Inflammatory arthropathy was frequently seen in microscopic colitis, usually preceding or occurring in conjunction with the onset of gastrointestinal symptoms. A variety of presentations of associated arthritis were reported: migratory, symmetric or asymmetric, peripheral or axial, oligoarticular or polyarticular, erosive or non-erosive. There was a high incidence of autoantibodies in these patients, supporting a potential autoimmune association. On the basis of these anecdotal reports, we would suggest development of a clinical registry to help define the incidence of extra-intestinal manifestations and systemic autoimmune rheumatic diseases among microscopic colitis patients to help elucidate shared predispositions, pathogenic mechanisms and therapeutic opportunities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Le
- Department of Medicine, Bayonne Medical Center, CarePoint Health, Bayonne, NJ, USA
| | - Noam Zeffren
- Department of Medicine, Bayonne Medical Center, CarePoint Health, Bayonne, NJ, USA
| | - Neil Kramer
- Institute for Rheumatic & Autoimmune Diseases, Overlook Medical Center, Atlantic Health System, Summit, USA.,Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, NYU Langone Medical Center, New York, USA
| | - Elliot D Rosenstein
- Institute for Rheumatic & Autoimmune Diseases, Overlook Medical Center, Atlantic Health System, Summit, USA.,Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, NYU Langone Medical Center, New York, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Cheah JX, Khanna D, McMahan ZH. Management of scleroderma gastrointestinal disease: Lights and shadows. JOURNAL OF SCLERODERMA AND RELATED DISORDERS 2022; 7:85-97. [PMID: 35585948 PMCID: PMC9109510 DOI: 10.1177/23971983221086343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2023]
Abstract
Gastrointestinal symptoms affect the great majority of patients with systemic sclerosis. Management of these complications is often challenging as any region of the gastrointestinal tract may be involved, and significant heterogeneity exists in clinical presentation, kinetics, and outcomes. Here, we highlight new findings relevant to the management of systemic sclerosis-related gastrointestinal disease (lights) and consider areas that we have yet to elucidate (shadows).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jenice X Cheah
- Department of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Dinesh Khanna
- Division of Rheumatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
9
|
McMahan ZH, Tucker AE, Perin J, Volkmann ER, Kulkarni S, Ziessman HA, Pasricha PJ, Wigley FM. Relationship Between Gastrointestinal Transit, Medsger Gastrointestinal Severity, and University of California-Los Angeles Scleroderma Clinical Trial Consortium Gastrointestinal Tract 2.0 Symptoms in Patients With Systemic Sclerosis. Arthritis Care Res (Hoboken) 2022; 74:442-450. [PMID: 33064934 PMCID: PMC8050123 DOI: 10.1002/acr.24488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2020] [Revised: 09/22/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Systemic sclerosis (SSc)-associated gastrointestinal (GI) complications are attributed to a variety of factors, including diet, microbiota dysbiosis, or GI transit abnormalities. Our objective was to examine the contribution of abnormal GI transit to SSc Medsger GI severity scores and/or University of California Los Angeles Scleroderma Clinical Trial Consortium Gastrointestinal Tract (UCLA GIT) 2.0 symptoms. METHODS Patients with SSc and GI symptoms (n = 71) and healthy controls (n = 18) underwent whole gut transit (WGT) scintigraphy to assess transit from the esophagus to the colon. The presence of delayed transit and percent emptying in each GI region were measured. We compared the WGT measurements between categories of the Medsger GI severity score (0-4) and across UCLA GIT 2.0 domains and total score (0-3). RESULTS A total of 88% of patients had >1 abnormal region of the gut on WGT scintigraphy. All patients requiring total parenteral nutrition had delayed small bowel transit, compared to only approximately 11% of patients in other Medsger GI severity groups (P ≤ 0.01). Severe colonic transit delays were more likely in patients with Medsger GI scores of 3 (pseudo-obstruction and/or malabsorption) compared to other Medsger GI groups (P = 0.02). Seventy-percent of these patients had ≤30% colonic emptying at 72 hours. Modest associations were noted between gastroesophageal reflux disease symptoms and delayed esophageal (r = -0.31, P = 0.05) and gastric emptying (r = -0.32, P = 0.05). CONCLUSION These data are important in providing evidence that SSc bowel disease affects transit of GI content and that delay in transit accounts in part for both bowel symptoms and Medsger GI severity. Prospective studies examining the benefit of early therapeutic intervention targeting GI transit abnormalities in patients at high risk for severe GI complications are needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ana E Tucker
- Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Jamie Perin
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
10
|
Constantin A, Achim F, Spinu D, Socea B, Predescu D. Idiopathic Megacolon-Short Review. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:diagnostics11112112. [PMID: 34829459 PMCID: PMC8622596 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11112112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Idiopathic megacolon (IM) is a rare condition with a more or less known etiology, which involves management challenges, especially therapeutic, and both gastroenterology and surgery services. With insufficiently drawn out protocols, but with occasionally formidable complications, the condition management can be difficult for any general surgery team, either as a failure of drug therapy (in the context of a known case, initially managed by a gastroenterologist) or as a surgical emergency (in which the diagnostic surprise leads additional difficulties to the tactical decision), when the speed imposed by the severity of the case can lead to inadequate strategies, with possibly critical consequences. METHOD With such a motivation, and having available experience limited by the small number of cases (described by all medical teams concerned with this pathology), the revision of the literature with the update of management landmarks from the surgical perspective of the pathology appears as justified by this article. RESULTS If the diagnosis of megacolon is made relatively easily by imaging the colorectal dilation (which is associated with initial and/or consecutive clinical aspects), the establishing of the diagnosis of idiopathic megacolon is based in practice almost exclusively on a principle of exclusion, and after evaluating the absence of some known causes that can lead to the occurrence of these anatomic and clinical changes, mimetically, clinically, and paraclinically, with IM (intramural aganglionosis, distal obstructions, intoxications, etc.). If the etiopathogenic theories, based on an increase in the performance of the arsenal of investigations of the disease, have registered a continuous improvement and an increase of objectivity, unfortunately, the curative surgical treatment options still revolve around the same resection techniques. Moreover, the possibility of developing a form of etiopathogenic treatment seems as remote as ever.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adrian Constantin
- General and Esophageal Clinic, Sf. Maria Clinical Hospital Bucharest, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 011172 Bucharest, Romania; (A.C.); (F.A.)
| | - Florin Achim
- General and Esophageal Clinic, Sf. Maria Clinical Hospital Bucharest, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 011172 Bucharest, Romania; (A.C.); (F.A.)
| | - Dan Spinu
- Department of Urology, Central Military Emergency University Hospital Bucharest, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 010825 Bucharest, Romania;
| | - Bogdan Socea
- Department of Surgery, Sf. Pantelimon Emergency Clinical Hospital Bucharest, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 021659 Bucharest, Romania;
| | - Dragos Predescu
- General and Esophageal Clinic, Sf. Maria Clinical Hospital Bucharest, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 011172 Bucharest, Romania; (A.C.); (F.A.)
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Luquez-Mindiola A, Atuesta AJ, Gómez-Aldana AJ. Gastrointestinal manifestations of systemic sclerosis: An updated review. World J Clin Cases 2021; 9:6201-6217. [PMID: 34434988 PMCID: PMC8362561 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v9.i22.6201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Revised: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis is an autoimmune disease characterized by vascular disease, fibrosis of the skin, and internal organ dysfunction. Gastrointestinal involvement is the most frequent complication of internal organs, impacting up to 90% of patients. Gastrointestinal involvement can affect any region of the gastrointestinal tract from the mouth to the anus, with a predominance of disorders being observed at the level of the upper digestive tract. The gastrointestinal involvement primarily involves the esophagus, small bowel, and rectum. The severity of gastrointestinal involvement affects quality of life and is a marker of worse prognosis and mortality in these patients. In this review, we describe the current findings regarding gastrointestinal involvement by this entity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Alexis Javier Atuesta
- Department of Internal Medicine, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Bogota 11711, Colombia
| | - Andres Jose Gómez-Aldana
- Department of Endoscopy, Santa Fe Foundation of Bogotá (Fundación Santa Fe de Bogotá), Bogotá 11711, Colombia
- Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de los Andes, Bogota 11711, Colombia
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Delaney FT, Fenlon HM, Buckley B, Welaratne I, Cronin CG. Multimodality imaging of the gastrointestinal manifestations of scleroderma. Clin Radiol 2021; 76:640-649. [PMID: 34108098 DOI: 10.1016/j.crad.2021.04.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Scleroderma is a complex multisystem connective tissue disorder. Early visceral disease, such as gastrointestinal (GI) involvement, is associated with significant morbidity and a poorer prognosis. Prompt diagnosis is crucial to allow disease modifying therapies be initiated early in the course of the disease. The primary underlying pathophysiology in the GI tract is dysmotility, muscular atrophy, and fibrosis, and this is reflected in the imaging features. In this paper, we demonstrate the imaging appearances of involvement of the GI tract and describe the use of advanced imaging with magnetic resonance enterography (MRE). A multimodal imaging approach is required to identify both characteristic features of scleroderma and potential complications. Traditional fluoroscopic contrast (barium) studies are still commonly performed for assessment of the oesophagus. More recent advances in cross-sectional imaging allow for thorough three-dimensional assessment of the entire GI tract. MRE is particularly useful for small bowel evaluation while also allowing "pseudodynamic" functional imaging and concomitant assessment of the other abdominal viscera and structures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- F T Delaney
- Radiology Department, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland.
| | - H M Fenlon
- Radiology Department, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - B Buckley
- Radiology Department, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - I Welaratne
- Radiology Department, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - C G Cronin
- Radiology Department, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Dein EJ, Wigley FM, McMahan ZH. Linaclotide for the treatment of refractory lower bowel manifestations of systemic sclerosis. BMC Gastroenterol 2021; 21:174. [PMID: 33858329 PMCID: PMC8051106 DOI: 10.1186/s12876-021-01738-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2020] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Lower gastrointestinal (GI) tract involvement can affect up to 50% of systemic sclerosis (SSc) patients, and may result in malabsorption, pseudo-obstruction, hospitalization, and death. We report our experience with linaclotide, a selective agonist of guanylate cyclase C (GC-C), for SSc patients with refractory lower GI disease. Methods We performed an analysis of patients seen at the Johns Hopkins Scleroderma Center and identified patients prescribed linaclotide for refractory lower GI manifestations. Patients had clinical data collected in our longitudinal database. Linaclotide responders were on medication for at least 12 months with documented effectiveness by the treating physician. Results Thirty-one patients with SSc were treated with linaclotide. At the time of linaclotide initiation, 23 of these patients (74%) were classified as having severe GI disease, as defined by recurrent pseudo-obstruction, malabsorption, and/or need for artificial nutrition (Medsger GI severity score ≥ 3). The majority of patients (90.3%; 28/31) had a treatment response, while only three patients (9.7%) reported ineffectiveness or intolerable side effects. Low-dose linaclotide (≤ 145 mcg daily) was used in 18 patients and was effective in 94%. High-dose therapy (> 145 mcg daily) was effective in 11 of 13 patients (85%). Common side effects were diarrhea, cramping, or bloating (11/31, 35%). Ineffectiveness, cost, and abdominal pain were complaints cited among those who discontinued therapy. Conclusion Linaclotide is a well-tolerated and efficacious pro-secretory and pro-motility agent that can be used to manage refractory lower GI manifestations in SSc. We found that low-dose linaclotide is an effective option and may be better tolerated, though a subset of patients may require high dose regimens.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eric J Dein
- Division of Rheumatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 5200 Eastern Avenue, Suite 5200, Mason F. Lord Building, Center Tower, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA
| | - Fredrick M Wigley
- Division of Rheumatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 5200 Eastern Avenue, Suite 5200, Mason F. Lord Building, Center Tower, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA
| | - Zsuzsanna H McMahan
- Division of Rheumatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 5200 Eastern Avenue, Suite 5200, Mason F. Lord Building, Center Tower, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Furst D, Varga J, Roofeh D, Pauling JD, Hughes M, Sandler R, Zimmermann F, Wessel R, Townsend W, Chung L, Denton CP, Merkel PA, Steen V, Allanore Y, Del Galdo F, Godard D, Cella D, Farrington S, Buch MH, Khanna D. Considerations for a combined index for limited cutaneous systemic sclerosis to support drug development and improve outcomes. JOURNAL OF SCLERODERMA AND RELATED DISORDERS 2021; 6:66-76. [PMID: 34316516 PMCID: PMC8313014 DOI: 10.1177/2397198320961967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc; systemic scleroderma) is characterized by a heterogeneous range of clinical manifestations. SSc is classified into limited cutaneous SSc (lcSSc) and diffuse cutaneous subgroups (dcSSc) based on the extent of skin involvement. Randomized controlled trials in scleroderma have mainly focused on dcSSc partly because the measurement of skin involvement, critical for evaluating a therapeutic intervention is more dynamic in this subset. Nonetheless, lcSSc, the most common cutaneous subset (about 2/3), is also associated with significant morbidity and detrimental impact on health-related quality of life. The lack of interventional studies in lcSSc is partly due to a lack of relevant outcome measures to evaluate this subgroup. Combining several clinically meaningful outcomes selected specifically for lcSSc may improve representativeness in clinical trials and responsiveness of outcomes measured in randomized controlled trials. A composite index dedicated to lcSSc combining such relevant outcomes could advance clinical trial development for lcSSc by providing the opportunity to test and select among candidate drugs that could act as disease-modifying treatments for this neglected subgroup of SSc. This proposed index would include items selected by expert physicians and patients with lcSSc across domains grounded in the lived experience of lcSSc. This article reviews the reasons behind the relative neglect of lcSSc, discusses the current state of outcome measures for lcSSc, identifies challenges, and proposes a roadmap for a combined lcSSc-specific treatment response index.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - David Roofeh
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Scleroderma Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - John D Pauling
- Royal National Hospital for Rheumatic Diseases (at Royal United Hospitals), Bath, UK
| | - Michael Hughes
- Department of Rheumatology, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield, UK
| | - Robert Sandler
- Department of Rheumatology, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield, UK
| | - François Zimmermann
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Immunology, Rennes University Hospital, Rennes, France
| | - Rachel Wessel
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Scleroderma Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Whitney Townsend
- Taubman Health Sciences Library, University of Michigan. Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Lorinda Chung
- Division of Immunology and Rheumatology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA.,Division of Immunology and Rheumatology, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Christopher P Denton
- Centre for Rheumatology and Connective Tissue Diseases, Royal Free Hospital Campus, University College London Medical School, London, UK
| | - Peter A Merkel
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Division of Clinical Epidemiology, Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology, and Informatics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Virginia Steen
- Division of Rheumatology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Yannick Allanore
- Rheumatology A department, Cochin Hospital, APHP, Paris Descartes University, Paris, France
| | - Francesco Del Galdo
- Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine and NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, University of Leeds, Leeds LS7 4SA, UK
| | | | - David Cella
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 625 Michigan Ave, 21st Floor, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Sue Farrington
- Federation of European Scleroderma Associations (FESCA), Tournai, Belgium
| | - Maya H Buch
- Centre for Musculoskeletal Research, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.,NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester University Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Dinesh Khanna
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Scleroderma Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
McMahan ZH, Khanna D. Managing gastrointestinal complications in patients with systemic sclerosis. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 18:531-544. [PMID: 34305387 DOI: 10.1007/s11938-020-00314-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Objective We sought to critically evaluate the literature published over the past 3 years on the management of gastrointestinal complications in systemic sclerosis (SSc). We emphasize interesting and important new findings to bring the reader up-to-date. We also discuss controversial discoveries and hypotheses currently of interest. Methods We conducted a literature search on PubMed over the last 3 years using the key words "systemic sclerosis," "gastrointestinal," "scleroderma," and "treatment." We also screened clinicaltrials.gov for ongoing trials relevant to the gastrointestinal complications of SSc. Reference lists from recent reviews on the management of gastrointestinal complications of SSc to identify articles that might have been missed in the initial search. Results 103 publications and ongoing clinical trials were identified. We eliminated all case reports and review articles. Ultimately we had 58 articles remaining and we prioritized what we found to be the strongest and/or novel findings to discuss in this review. Conclusions Advances in the management of gastrointestinal disease in SSc continue to evolve. The application of novel therapies and the repurposing of existing therapies for the management of gastrointestinal involvement are shaping the therapeutic arsenal so that we can more effectively manage these complex patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Z H McMahan
- Johns Hopkins University, Division of Rheumatology, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - D Khanna
- University of Michigan, Division of Rheumatology, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Kaniecki T, Abdi T, McMahan ZH. Clinical Assessment of Gastrointestinal Involvement in Patients with Systemic Sclerosis. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 8. [PMID: 34337149 DOI: 10.18103/mra.v8i10.2252] [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] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) has the potential to affect any component of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. GI involvement in SSc is a leading cause of morbidity and overall decreased quality of life in this patient population, identifying a need for a concise approach to work-up. This literature review aims to present a systematic, anatomical approach and differential diagnosis of GI involvement in SSc for the general internist and rheumatologist. Each component of the luminal GI tract has its own specified section, beginning with a review of a clinical approach to diagnosis that includes a differential for clinicians to consider, followed by a discussion of the literature surrounding objective evaluation of these conditions (i.e. serologic studies, imaging, endoscopy). Additionally there is a focused discussion on an approach to GI bleeding in the patient with SSc.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Tsion Abdi
- Johns Hopkins University, Division of Gastroenterology
| | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Carr ZJ, Klick J, McDowell BJ, Charchaflieh JG, Karamchandani K. An Update on Systemic Sclerosis and its Perioperative Management. CURRENT ANESTHESIOLOGY REPORTS 2020; 10:512-521. [PMID: 32904358 PMCID: PMC7455511 DOI: 10.1007/s40140-020-00411-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Purpose of Review Systemic sclerosis or scleroderma (SSc) is a systemic, immune-mediated disease characterized by abnormal cutaneous and organ-based fibrosis that results in progressive end-organ dysfunction and decreased survival. SSc results in significant challenges for the practicing anesthesiologist due to its rarity, multi-system involvement, and limited evidence-based guidance for optimal perioperative care. In this update, we briefly discuss the recent evidence on the pathophysiology and current management of SSc, review the anesthesia-related literature, and extrapolate these observations into an optimal perioperative strategy for the care of SSc patients. Recent Findings Evidence shows that patients with SSc demonstrate an increased risk for perioperative myocardial infarction, high rates of interstitial lung disease, pulmonary arterial hypertension, neurological disease, gastric dysmotility disorders, and challenging airway management, all findings that may result in suboptimal perioperative outcomes. Summary Advances in SSc medical management have resulted in improved survival, likely increasing the number of patients who will be exposed to perioperative care. Optimal perioperative management and risk stratification should expand beyond the well-described airway challenges and consider numerous systemic manifestations of systemic sclerosis such as pulmonary arterial hypertension, interstitial lung disease, and cardiac sequelae.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zyad J. Carr
- Department of Anesthesiology, Yale New Haven Hospital, New Haven, CT 06510 USA
- Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510 USA
| | - John Klick
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Vermont Medical Center, Burlington, VT 05405 USA
- Larner College of Medicine at The University of Vermont, Burlington, VT 05405 USA
| | - Brittany J. McDowell
- Department of Anesthesiology, Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, PA 17033 USA
- Penn State School of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033 USA
| | - Jean G. Charchaflieh
- Department of Anesthesiology, Yale New Haven Hospital, New Haven, CT 06510 USA
- Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510 USA
| | - Kunal Karamchandani
- Department of Anesthesiology, Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, PA 17033 USA
- Penn State School of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033 USA
| |
Collapse
|