Update on biologicals for treatment of juvenile idiopathic arthritis

The clinical and experimental treatment of Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is the most common chronic rheumatic disease in children and comprises of multiple subtypes. The most relevant disease subtypes, grouped upon current insight in disease mechanisms, are nonsystemic (oligo- and polyarticular) JIA and systemic JIA (sJIA). In this review, we summarize some of the main proposed mechanisms of disease in both nonsystemic and sJIA and discuss how current therapeutic modalities target some of the pathogenic immune pathways. Chronic inflammation in nonsystemic JIA is the result of a complex interplay between effector and regulatory immune cell subsets, with adaptive immune cells, specifically T-cell subsets and antigen-presenting cells, in a central role. There is, however, also innate immune cell contribution. SJIA is nowadays recognized as an acquired chronic inflammatory disorder with striking autoinflammatory features in the first phase of the disease. Some sJIA patients develop a refractory disease course, with indications for involvement of adaptive immune pathways as well. Currently, therapeutic strategies are directed at suppressing effector mechanisms in both non-systemic and sJIA. These strategies are often not yet optimally tuned nor timed to the known active mechanisms of disease in individual patients in both non-systemic and sJIA. We discuss current treatment strategies in JIA, specifically the 'Step-up' and 'Treat to Target approach' and explore how increased insight into the biology of disease may translate into future more targeted strategies for this chronic inflammatory disease at relevant time points: preclinical disease, active disease, and clinically inactive disease.

The effect of etanercept therapy on adrenal steroid metabolism in juvenile idiopathic arthritis: a steroid metabolomics approach

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the impact of anti-tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNFα: etanercept [Etanercept ®]) therapy on adrenal activity in juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) .

METHOD

Eleven JIA patients aged 12 ± 6.2 years with a disease duration of 6.3 ± 5.2 years were enrolled. They were treated once weekly with etanercept (0.8 mg/kg) for 3 ± 2.8 years. Urine samples for gas chromatography-mass spectrometry steroid hormone analysis were collected before, and 1 and 3 days after etanercept injection and compared to age- and sex-matched healthy controls.

RESULTS

The levels of 21 of the 31 metabolites were low before etanercept treatment. Those 21 metabolites included 4 C19 steroids (androgens), 5 C C21 steroid hormone intermediates, 10 cortisol metabolites, and 2 corticosterone metabolites. One day after treatment, only 5 of the 21 metabolite levels remained low. They included 2 C19 metabolites, 2 C21 steroid metabolites and 1 cortisol metabolite β -Cortol (β-Cl). Three days after treatment, the only metabolites levels that continued to be low were 2 C19 metabolite, 2 C21 steroid hormone intermediates and 1 cortisol metabolite α-Cortol (a-Cl), while the remaining 15 metabolites had already normalized after 1 day. Dehydroepiandrosterone-sulfate and 17-hydroxypregnenolone metabolite levels were the last ones to recover. Urinary metabolite ratios reflecting cytochrome P450 CYP21A2 (21-hydroxylase) and 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 (11β-HSD2) enzymatic activitieswere lower in JIA patients than in controls, although significant was not reached.

CONCLUSION

Almost all of the pre-etanercept treatment cortisol urinary metabolite levels were significantly lower than normal, and almost all rose to normal values by 1 day after treatment. The therapeutic effect of anti-TNFα treatment in JIA may be related to its effect on the restoration of adrenal function and cortisol levels.

Analysis of the Immunogenicity from Abatacept-Treated Pediatric Patients With Polyarticular-Course Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis: Findings From Two Phase III Clinical Trials

Objective

The goal of this article is to present the analysis of anti‐abatacept antibody data from children with polyarticular‐course juvenile idiopathic arthritis (pJIA), treated with abatacept. The data are from 395 participants with pJIA from two abatacept registrational trials.

Methods

We analyzed immunogenicity data according to age groups, administration route (intravenous [IV] or subcutaneous [SC]), drug treatment interruption, and co‐medications (with or without methotrexate [MTX]) to assess impact on the incidence of anti‐abatacept antibodies.

Results

The overall immunogenicity incidences observed in both JIA trials ranged between 4.7% and 23.3%. There was a slightly higher immunogenicity incidence in the 2–5‐year‐old participants (15.2%) compared with 6–17‐year‐old participants (4.7%). In the study with SC dosing, the overall incidence on treatment was 2.3% (3% if co‐dosed with MTX), similar to the incidence for Period A of the IV study (similar duration of treatment as the SC study), which was 2.1% (1.4% if co‐dosed with MTX). In the IV study, the period following a 6‐month interruption in treatment had comparable immunogenicity incidences (22.9% with interruption vs. 18.2% without interruption, both co‐dosed with MTX and 0% for both not co‐dosed with MTX). In most cases, participants co‐dosed with MTX had higher immunogenicity incidences than those on abatacept alone.

Conclusion

Although some trends were noted in terms of incidence according to age and MTX co‐dosing, none where conclusive owing to differences in population size. Drug holiday had no impact on immunogenicity incidence once treatment was resumed, and incidences across SC and IV dosing were comparable. There was no impact of immunogenicity on pharmacokinetics, safety, and efficacy.

Infliximab therapy and outcomes in patients with polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis: a single-center study in China

BACKGROUND

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is a chronic inflammatory disease that includes seven heterogeneous subgroups with different prognoses. In particular, polyarticular JIA (pJIA) has a longer period of active disease and a poorer prognosis. Tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha inhibitors are effective in patients with pJIA, but the therapeutic regimen remains controversial. Here, we performed a single-center study to determine the potential correlation between TNF-alpha inhibitor (infliximab) therapy and outcomes in these patients.

METHODS

Clinical data of 40 pJIA patients were collected at our center from January 1, 2010 to January 1, 2018, and patients were grouped according to the timing of infliximab therapy. The erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), the number of joints with active disease, and the 27-point juvenile arthritis disease activity score (JADAS-27) were analyzed.

RESULTS

The ESR, the active joint count, and the JADAS-27 decreased significantly in all groups after 3 months (P = 0.041/0.415/0.008, 0.022/0.030/ < 0.001, and 0.05/0.012/ < 0.001, respectively) and 6 months (P = 0.036/0.045/0.041, 0.076/0.037/ < 0.001, and 0.096/0.006/ < 0.001, respectively) of infliximab treatment, although the rates of change of these parameters were similar. However, after 12 months, only patients treated with infliximab within 3 months of disease onset had a stable ESR, active joint count, and JADAS-27, while these parameters increased sharply when infliximab was administered 3 months and especially 1 year after disease onset.

CONCLUSIONS

TNF-alpha is a pleiotropic pro-inflammatory cytokine of crucial importance in the pathogenesis of JIA. Infliximab can improve the outcomes of patients with pJIA significantly, and should be introduced early during the clinical course.

The Clinical Characteristics of Pediatric Non-Infectious Uveitis in Two Tertiary Referral Centers in Turkey

Purpose: To report the manifestations, patterns of disease, treatment strategies and outcomes in pediatric patients with noninfectious uveitis.Methods: Demographic information of 76 cases was recorded. Symptoms, anatomic location, laterality, visual acuity (VA), intraocular pressure, associated systemic diseases, therapeutic strategies, side effects, complications were reviewed.Results: Thirty-one patients were diagnosed as uveitis on routine surveillance because of underlying systemic disease. The most common anatomic location was intermediate uveitis (34.2%). Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) was the most common underlying systemic disease (25%). Glaucoma was the most common complication (7.7%). The patients with refractory uveitis received adalimumab (26.5%), infliximab (4.6%) and tocilizumab (3.1%). The mean first-year VA was between 20/32 and 20/20 in 116/140 eyes.Conclusion: Most pediatric noninfectious uveitis cases have bilateral intermediate uveitis. JIA was the most common systemic association. The first-year VA was good in most eyes which may be due to early use of corticosteroid-sparing agents.

Therapeutic potential of dinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (DNBS)-induced colitis in mice by targeting IL-1β and IL-18

Interleukin (IL)-1 and IL-18 belong to the IL-1 family of ligands, and their receptors are members of the IL-1 receptor family. Both cytokines drive an extensive range of pro-inflammatory networks in many cell types using common signal transduction cascades. Anyway, differences in signaling pathways exist. With this aim in mind, we investigated by using transgenic mice the mechanisms through the simultaneous deficiency of both IL-1β and IL-18 could be more protective compared to blocking the single cytokine IL-1β or IL-18 during colitis. Colitis was provoked in mice by instillation of dinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (DNBS) in the colon. The results indicated that single knockout (KO) mice of IL-1β or IL-18, and double KO mice of both IL-1β and IL-18 were hyporesponsive to DNBS-induced colitis compared to wild type (WT) mice, in which double KO were less sensitive than single KO mice. Moreover, treatment with Anakinra (IL-1R antagonist) also ameliorated colitis, in views of macroscopic and histological alteration, infiltration of neutrophils or Th1 cells, oxidative and nitrosative stress. Anakinra more significantly reduced cyclooxygenase (COX-2) and nuclear factor (NF-κB) levels as well as IKB-α degradation compared to blocking IL-18. On the contrary, the absence of IL-18 reduced p-ERK and p-p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPKs) in a more significant way compared to blocking IL-1β. Thus, the double KO increased the protective effects against colon inflammation maybe because different converging inflammatory pathways are being inhibited. In conclusion, the blocking of both IL-1β and IL-18 function may be advantageous in the treatment of IBD or inflammatory diseases.

Management of Paediatric Ulcerative Colitis, Part 1: Ambulatory Care-An Evidence-based Guideline From European Crohn's and Colitis Organization and European Society of Paediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition

BACKGROUND

The contemporary management of ambulatory ulcerative colitis (UC) continues to be challenging with ∼20% of children needing a colectomy within childhood years. We thus aimed to standardize daily treatment of pediatric UC and inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD)-unclassified through detailed recommendations and practice points.

METHODS

These guidelines are a joint effort of the European Crohn's and Colitis Organization (ECCO) and the Paediatric IBD Porto group of European Society of Paediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition (ESPGHAN). An extensive literature search with subsequent evidence appraisal using robust methodology was performed before 2 face-to-face meetings. All 40 included recommendations and 86 practice points were endorsed by 43 experts in Paediatric IBD with at least an 88% consensus rate.

RESULTS

These guidelines discuss how to optimize the use of mesalamine (including topical), systemic and locally active steroids, thiopurines and, for more severe disease, biologics. The use of other emerging therapies and the role of surgery are also covered. Algorithms are provided to aid therapeutic decision-making based on clinical assessment and the Paediatric UC Activity Index (PUCAI). Advice on contemporary therapeutic targets incorporating the use of calprotectin and the role of therapeutic drug monitoring are presented, as well as other management considerations around pouchitis, extraintestinal manifestations, nutrition, growth, psychology, and transition. A brief section on disease classification using the PIBD-classes criteria and IBD-unclassified is also part of these guidelines.

CONCLUSIONS

These guidelines provide a guide to clinicians managing children with UC and IBD-unclassified management to provide modern management strategies while maintaining vigilance around appropriate outcomes and safety issues.

Neutralization of Streptolysin S-Dependent and Independent Inflammatory Cytokine IL-1β Activity Reduces Pathology During Early Group A Streptococcal Skin Infection

The bacterial pathogen Group A Streptococcus (GAS) has been shown to induce a variety of human diseases ranging in severity from pharyngitis to toxic shock syndrome and necrotizing fasciitis. GAS produces a powerful peptide toxin known as Streptolysin S (SLS). Though long recognized as a potent cytolysin, recent evidence from our lab has shown that SLS-dependent cytotoxicity is mediated through activation of the pro-inflammatory mediators p38 MAPK and NFκB. These findings led us to hypothesize that activation of p38 MAPK and NFκB signaling drive the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines which, in turn, serve as positive feedback signals to initiate cytotoxicity in infected host cells. To address this hypothesis, we utilized a cytokine array to characterize the SLS-dependent pro-inflammatory cytokine response to GAS infection in human keratinocytes. From these studies, IL-1β was found to be markedly upregulated in the presence of SLS, and further investigation revealed that this cytokine contributes to cytotoxicity in human keratinocytes during infection. Subcutaneous infection studies were performed in mice to address the physiological impact of increased IL-1β production. These studies demonstrated that IL-1β is produced during GAS skin infection in an SLS-dependent manner. Furthermore, inhibition of this cytokine and the upstream kinases and other signaling mediators that drive its production reduced SLS-mediated lesion formation early in the infection process. Together, our findings indicate that pharmacological inhibition of this inflammatory axis holds promise as a therapeutic strategy to reduce tissue destruction during severe invasive Group A Streptococcal infections.

Update on research and clinical translation on specific clinical areas from biology to bedside: Unpacking the mysteries of juvenile idiopathic arthritis pathogenesis

In the past decades, we have gained important insights into the mechanisms of disease and therapy underlying chronic inflammation in juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). These insights have resulted in several game-changing therapeutic modalities for many patients. However, additional progress still has to be made with regard to efficacy, cost reduction, minimization of side effects, and dose-tapering and stop strategies of maintenance drugs. Moreover, to really transform the current therapeutic strategies into personalized medicine, we need validated biomarkers to translate increased insights into clinical practice. In this article, we describe recent developments in JIA research and outline how clinical innovations need to go hand in hand with basic discoveries to really effect care for patients. Facilitating the transition from bench to bedside is crucial for addressing the major current challenges in JIA management. When successful, it will set new standards for a safe, targeted, and personalized medicine in JIA.

Time spent in inactive disease before MTX withdrawal is relevant with regard to the flare risk in patients with JIA

OBJECTIVES

To determine the reasons of methotrexate (MTX) discontinuation, frequency of adverse events (AE) and whether the time in inactive disease before MTX withdrawal disease is associated with the risk of disease flare.

METHODS

Patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) beginning treatment with MTX were prospectively observed in the national JIA biologic register Biologika in der Kinderrheumatologie/Biologics in Paediatric Rheumatology and its follow-up register Juvenile arthritis Methotrexate/Biologics long-term Observation. Inactive disease was defined by a clinical Juvenile Arthritis Disease Activity Score ≤1, flare after MTX discontinuation by reoccurrence of at least moderate disease activity or restart of treatment with a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug .

RESULTS

MTX treatment was initiated in 1514 patients after a mean disease duration of 2.1 years (SD=2.8). 40% of the patients experienced oligoarticular onset of JIA. MTX was discontinued in 982 (64.9%) patients. Ineffectiveness (36.9%) and achieving inactive disease (32.1%) were the most common reasons. Among the latter (n=316), 184 (58.2%) patients experienced a flare on follow-up. The likelihood of a flare was a function of time in inactive disease prior to MTX discontinuation (HR 0.95; 95% CI 0.92 to 0.97). Patients with inactive disease for longer than 12 months had a significantly lower flare rate (58 of 119, 48.7%; HR 0.48; 95% CI 0.34 to 0.69). The most frequently reported AE was MTX intolerance, including nausea, aversion and vomiting, accounting for 441 events (13.0 events/100 exposure years) in 307 (20.3%) patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients who spent at least 12 months in inactive disease before MTX discontinuation had a significantly lower flare rate.

Update on the use of immunoglobulin in human disease: A review of evidence

Human immunoglobulin preparations for intravenous or subcutaneous administration are the cornerstone of treatment in patients with primary immunodeficiency diseases affecting the humoral immune system. Intravenous preparations have a number of important uses in the treatment of other diseases in humans as well, some for which acceptable treatment alternatives do not exist. We provide an update of the evidence-based guideline on immunoglobulin therapy, last published in 2006. Given the potential risks and inherent scarcity of human immunoglobulin, careful consideration of its indications and administration is warranted.

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.

Treatment of Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis-Associated Uveitis

Pediatric uveitis may be a serious health problem because of the lifetime burden of vision loss due to severe complications if the problem is not adequately treated. Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA)-associated uveitis is characterized by insidious onset and potentially blinding chronic anterior uveitis. Periodic ophthalmologic screening is of utmost importance for early diagnosis of uveitis. Early diagnosis and proper immunomodulatory treatment are essential for good visual prognosis. The goal of treatment is to achieve enduring drug-free remission. The choice of therapeutic regimen needs to be tailored to each individual case. One must keep in mind that patients under immunomodulatory treatment should be monitored closely due to possible side effects. Local and systemic corticosteroids have long been the mainstay of therapy; however, long-term corticosteroid therapy should be avoided due to serious side effects. Steroid-sparing agents in the treatment of JIA-associated uveitis include antimetabolites and biologic agents in refractory cases. Among the various immunomodulatory agents, methotrexate is generally the first choice, as it has a well-established safety and efficacy profile in pediatric cases and does not appear to increase the risk of cancer. Other classic immunomodulators that may also be used in combination with methotrexate include azathioprine, mycophenolate mofetil, and cyclosporin A. Biologic agents, primarily tumor necrosis factor alpha inhibitors including infliximab or adalimumab, should be considered in cases of treatment failure with classic immunomodulatory agents.

The role of synthetic drugs in the biologic era: therapeutic strategies for treating juvenile idiopathic arthritis

INTRODUCTION

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis is the most frequent chronic rheumatic disease in childhood. Synthetic disease modifying drugs (DMARDs) have been used in its treatment since the 1980s and have led to substantial improvement of quality of life and disease outcome. Recent pharmacological research has focused on newer medications, especially biologic agents.

AREAS COVERED

Synthetic DMARDS, especially methotrexate, rightfully remain the first-line treatment of most categories of juvenile arthritis, as attested by several international guidelines. A substantial body of evidence supports these medications, and recent research tries to clarify their optimal use in the clinical setting, both as monotherapy and in combination with biologics. In addition, new forms of synthetic DMARDs are in the research pipeline, or are already used for rheumatoid arthritis.

EXPERT OPINION

Methotrexate remains the preferred first-line medication for polyarticular arthritis, with leflunomide as a viable alternative in case of intolerance or toxicity, despite lack of approval in Europe and the US. Sulfasalazine and hydroxychloroquine are used only rarely in clinical practice, considered in combination with methotrexate if biologics are not available. New synthetic DMARDS are in the research pipeline for JIA, in the form of small molecules.

Pediatric Rheumatology for the Primary Care Clinicians-Recognizing Patterns of Disease

This review presents a diagnostic approach to musculoskeletal and rheumatic diseases in children for primary care clinicians. The focus is on juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) as the major arthritis disease in children. It is necessary to know the personalities of these JIA categories. It is also crucial to be able to recognize the common infectious, orthopedic and mechanical, malignant, genetic, other rheumatic diseases, and other miscellaneous syndromes that can mimic JIA. To do so requires recognition of clinical patterns using a thorough musculoskeletal and rheumatic history and repeated complete physical exams with emphasis on the musculoskeletal exam. It also requires targeted and limited laboratory testing with careful follow-up over time.

Republished: new age of biological therapies in paediatric rheumatology

Many paediatric rheumatic diseases result from the abnormal activation or control of the immune system. Biologic drugs, which are synthesised within a biological system, have been designed to target specific molecules involved in cytokine signalling or cell-cell interactions. The past 15 years have seen a revolution in the range of effective treatments for rheumatic diseases, particularly juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). As a result, the target of inactive disease and minimal long-term disease-associated damage is increasingly becoming achievable. In this article we review evidence from recent trials of the use of biologic drugs in the treatment of systemic JIA, juvenile dermatomyositis and juvenile systemic lupus erythematosus. We also highlight novel agents currently undergoing investigation which may broaden our therapeutic armamentarium over the coming decade. Key to these developments are well-designed multicentre controlled clinical trials and long-term safety monitoring as part of international drug registries.

The development and assessment of biological treatments for children

The development of biological agents with specific immunological targets has revolutionized the treatment of a wide variety of paediatric diseases where traditional immunosuppressive agents have been partly ineffective or intolerable. The increasing requirement for pharmaceutical companies to undertake paediatric studies has provided impetus for studies of biologics in children. The assessment of biological agents in children to date has largely relied upon randomized controlled trials using a withdrawal design, rather than a parallel study design. This approach has been largely used due to ethical concerns, including use of placebo treatments in children with active chronic disease, and justified on the basis that treatments have usually already undergone robust assessment in related adult conditions. However, this study design limits the reliability of the data and can confuse the interpretation of safety results. Careful ongoing monitoring of safety and efficacy in real-world practice through national and international biologics registries and robust reporting systems is crucial. The most commonly used biological agents in children target tumour necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1, interleukin-6 and cytotoxic lymphocyte-associated antigen-4. These agents are most frequently used in paediatric rheumatic diseases. This review discusses the development and assessment of biologics within paediatric rheumatology with reference to the lessons learned from use in other subspecialties.

Prediction of methotrexate intolerance in juvenile idiopathic arthritis: a prospective, observational cohort study

BACKGROUND

Methotrexate (MTX) is an effective and safe drug in the treatment of juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). Despite its safety, MTX-related gastrointestinal adverse effects before and after MTX administration, termed MTX intolerance, occur frequently, leading to non-compliance and potentially premature MTX termination. The aim of this study was to construct a risk model to predict MTX intolerance.

METHODS

In a prospective JIA cohort, clinical variables and single nucleotide polymorphisms were determined at MTX start. The Methotrexate Intolerance Severity Score was employed to measure MTX intolerance in the first year of treatment. MTX intolerance was most prevalent at 6 or 12 months after MTX start, which was defined as the outcome for the prediction model. The model was developed in 152 patients using multivariable logistic regression analysis and subsequently internally validated using bootstrapping.

RESULTS

The prediction model included the following predictors: JIA category, antinuclear antibody, parent/patient assessment of pain, Juvenile Arthritis Disease Activity Score-27, thrombocytes, alanine aminotransferase and creatinine. The model classified 77.5% of patients correctly, and 66.7% of patients after internal validation by bootstrapping. The lowest predicted risk of MTX intolerance was 18.9% and the highest predicted risk was 85.9%. The prediction model was transformed into a risk score (range 0-17). At a cut-off of ≥6, sensitivity was 82.0%, specificity 56.1%, positive predictive value was 58.7% and negative predictive value 80.4%.

CONCLUSIONS

This clinical prediction model showed moderate predictive power to detect MTX intolerance. To develop into a clinically usable tool, it should be validated in an independent cohort and updated with new predictors. Such an easy-to-use tool could then assist clinicians in identifying patients at risk to develop MTX intolerance, and in turn to monitor them closely and intervene timely in order to prevent the development of MTX intolerance.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ISRCTN register, www.isrctn.com, ISRCTN13524271.

Prediction of methotrexate efficacy and adverse events in patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis: a systematic literature review

BACKGROUND

Methotrexate (MTX) is the cornerstone disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drug in juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). In JIA, it is important to start effective treatment early to avoid long-term sequelae, such as joint damage. To accomplish this goal, it is crucial to know beforehand who is going to respond well to MTX. In addition, MTX adverse effects such as MTX intolerance occur frequently, potentially hindering its efficacy. To avoid inefficacy of an otherwise effective drug, the physician should be timely aware of these adverse events. Consequently, to optimise treatment of JIA patients with MTX, predictors for efficacy and adverse events should be used in daily clinical practice. The aim of this study was to summarise the existing knowledge about such predictors.

METHODS

A systematic literature search was performed in PubMed, Embase and The Cochrane Library, and 1,331 articles were identified. These were selected based on their relevance to the topic and critically appraised according to pre-defined criteria. Predictors for MTX efficacy and adverse events were extracted from the literature and tabulated.

RESULTS

Twenty articles were selected. The overall quality of the studies was good. For MTX efficacy, candidate predictors were antinuclear antibody positivity, the childhood health assessment questionnaire score, the myeloid-related protein 8/14 level, long-chain MTX polyglutamates, bilateral wrist involvement and some single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the adenosine triphosphate binding cassette and solute carrier transporter gene families. For MTX adverse events, potential predictors were alanine aminotransferase and thrombocyte level and two SNPs in the γ-glutamyl hydrolase and methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase genes. However, validation of most predictors in independent cohorts was still lacking.

CONCLUSIONS

Interesting candidate predictors were found, especially for MTX efficacy. However, most of these were not validated. This should be the goal of future efforts. A clinically relevant way to validate the predictors is by means of creating a clinical prediction model.

Predictors of response to methotrexate in juvenile idiopathic arthritis

BACKGROUND

The response to methotrexate so far is unpredictable in patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis. Thus such predictors have to be determined in a large patient cohort.

METHODS

Demographic, clinical, articular and laboratory variables of patients newly treated with methotrexate were analysed by bivariate and logistic regression analysis to identify predictors of response to methotrexate. Minimal response was defined by the American College of Rheumatology pediatric (PedACR) 30 and strong response by the PedACR 70 criteria.

RESULTS

The patient population consisted of 731 patients. At month 3, 77.4% and at month 12 83.1% of patients were responders according to the PedACR 30 criteria, while 43.1% and 65.9% of patients had a PedACR 70 response at month 3 and at month 12. Thus minimal response was frequently already reached at month 3 while strong response to MTX treatment took usually longer to achieve. In multivariate analysis the number of tender joints (p = 0.002), active joints (p < 0.001), concomitant use of NSAID (p = 0.027) and the parents evaluation of overall well-being (p < 0.001) were significant baseline parameters for minimal response at month 3, while at month 12 the determinants for reaching PedACR 70 were a disease duration < 1 year (p =0.001), a lower number of tender (p <0.001) but a higher number of active joints (p <0.001), a higher score of the parent's evaluation of child's pain (p =0.029), and the presence of morning stiffness (p =0.014).

CONCLUSIONS

Baseline parameters for minimal response after 3 months of treatment and strong response after 12 months of treatment could be identified. Beside parameters defining activity and severity of disease, the disease duration and the concomitant use of NSAID were influencing factors. Overall the model of prediction could support physicians in making treatment decisions.

IL-6 as a druggable target in psoriasis: focus on pustular variants

Psoriasis vulgaris (PV) is a cutaneous inflammatory disorder stemming from abnormal, persistent activation of the interleukin- (IL-)23/Th17 axis. Pustular psoriasis (PP) is a clinicopathological variant of psoriasis, histopathologically defined by the predominance of intraepidermal collections of neutrophils. Although PP pathogenesis is thought to largely follow that of (PV), recent evidences point to a more central role for IL-1, IL-36, and IL-6 in the development of PP. We review the role of IL-6 in the pathogenesis of PV and PP, focusing on its cross-talk with cytokines of the IL-23/Th17 axis. Clinical inhibitors of IL-6 signaling, including tocilizumab, have shown significant effectiveness in the treatment of several inflammatory rheumatic diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis and juvenile idiopathic arthritis; accordingly, anti-IL-6 agents may potentially represent future promising therapies for the treatment of PP.

New age of biological therapies in paediatric rheumatology

Many paediatric rheumatic diseases result from the abnormal activation or control of the immune system. Biologic drugs, which are synthesised within a biological system, have been designed to target specific molecules involved in cytokine signalling or cell-cell interactions. The past 15 years have seen a revolution in the range of effective treatments for rheumatic diseases, particularly juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). As a result, the target of inactive disease and minimal long-term disease-associated damage is increasingly becoming achievable. In this article we review evidence from recent trials of the use of biologic drugs in the treatment of systemic JIA, juvenile dermatomyositis and juvenile systemic lupus erythematosus. We also highlight novel agents currently undergoing investigation which may broaden our therapeutic armamentarium over the coming decade. Key to these developments are well-designed multicentre controlled clinical trials and long-term safety monitoring as part of international drug registries.

Management of pediatric uveitis

Pediatric uveitis is a topic of special interest not only because of the unique diagnostic and therapeutic challenges but also because of the lifetime burden of vision loss if the problem is not adequately treated, as well as the economic and psychological toll on the family. Often, uveitis in children is discovered as part of a routine eye exam; this silent, insidious inflammation can be difficult to treat and can lead to further complications if not handled skillfully. Corticosteroids have long been the mainstay of therapy; however, the significant associated side effects mandate a corticosteroid-sparing therapeutic regimen in pursuit of remission. In this review, we cover the therapeutic options for pediatric uveitis, specifically focusing on the most common non-infectious varieties, juvenile idiopathic arthritis-associated uveitis and pars planitis.

Blood gene expression profiling in pediatric systemic lupus erythematosus and systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis: from bench to bedside

Blood gene expression profiling has led to major advances in the field of rheumatology over the last few decades. Specifically, DNA microarray technology has been integral in increasing our knowledge of key players in the pathogenesis of some rare pediatric rheumatic diseases. Our group, using microarray analysis, identified the interferon (IFN) gene signature in pediatric systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and has published data that suggest high doses of intravenous corticosteroid treatment may have benefit over strictly oral regimens. Additionally, DNA microarray technology led to our discovery that the interleukin (IL)-1 gene signature is associated with systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis (sJIA) and to the use of IL-1 blockade with anakinra in this disease. We also reported the biologic rationale for use of anakinra early in the disease course. Anakinra is now being used as first-line treatment in sJIA in multiple centers. Herein, we review how information obtained from blood gene expression profiling has changed our clinical practice.

Intravenous laser blood irradiation and tocilizumab in a patient with juvenile arthritis

This study presents effects of intravenous laser blood irradiation (ILBI) in a transient immunodeficiency patient with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) treated with an interleukin-6 receptor inhibitor (Tocilizumab). Biological agents induce JIA remission, but some patients do not respond favorably to this final therapeutic line of defense. ILBI was performed in a 16-year-old male patient, with JIA and transient immunodeficiency. When ILBI was introduced, the patient was receiving disease-modifying drugs, steroids, tocilizumab, and physical therapy. Because the disease was not well controlled, ILBI was applied in addition to other ongoing therapies. The patient underwent 1 session daily, and 10 successive sessions per month, repeated every 3 months, for 7 months. Patient evaluation was performed before ILBI was started and at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months after ILBI initiation, using the ACR Pediatric response. The outcome was evaluated using Pediatric 50, 70, and 90 responses and compared to initial status, after 3, 6, 9, and 12 months. At the end of study, the titre of IgA and IgG levels returned to normal. Synergistic anti-inflammatory effect of ILBI was evident, if applied additionally in combination with tocilizumab, in a patient with a therapy-resistant severe form of JIA and related subacute transient immunodeficiency.

Longterm Safety and Effectiveness of the Anti-interleukin 6 Receptor Monoclonal Antibody Tocilizumab in Patients with Systemic Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis in Japan

Objective.

To assess the longterm safety and effectiveness of tocilizumab (TCZ) in systemic-onset juvenile idiopathic arthritis (sJIA).

Methods.

The longterm extension phase of 2 pivotal studies (phase II with 11 patients and phase III with 56 patients) in patients with active sJIA was analyzed. Patients received open-label TCZ (8 mg/kg, every 2 weeks) without concomitant use of disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs.

Results.

In total, 67 patients were enrolled. All patients received corticosteroid at baseline. Median duration of exposure to TCZ was 3.4 years. Nine patients withdrew from the study [4 because of adverse events (AE), 4 because of the development of anti-TCZ antibodies, and 1 because of inadequate response]. Rates of AE and serious AE were 803.7/100 patient-years (PY) and 34.7/100 PY, respectively. The most common serious AE were infections (13.2/100 PY). No cases of malignancy or death were reported. Two serious infusion reactions were reported in patients testing negative for anti-TCZ antibodies. One definite macrophage activation syndrome (MAS) case and 1 potential MAS case were identified. American College of Rheumatology (ACR) response rates attained early in the TCZ treatment period were maintained throughout the study: at Week 168, JIA ACR 30, 50, 70, 90, and 100 response rates were 80.3%, 80.3%, 75.4%, 60.7%, and 18.0%, respectively. In total, 22 of 67 patients (32.8%) completely discontinued corticosteroids without flare.

Conclusion.

TCZ has demonstrated durability of effectiveness in the longterm treatment of children with sJIA and has shown good tolerability and a low discontinuation rate associated with AE, development of anti-TCZ antibodies, or inadequate response. (ClinicalTrials.govNCT00144599 and NCT00144612).

(First Release March 15 2014; J Rheumatol 2014;41:759-67; doi:10.3899/jrheum.130690)

Pediatric uveitis: new and future treatments

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Pediatric uveitis is relatively uncommon, accounting for only 5-10% of all patients with uveitis. However, owing to high prevalence of complications and devastating outcomes, its lifetime burden can be significant.

RECENT FINDINGS

Immunomodulatory therapy has been associated with better outcomes in noninfectious pediatric uveitis. However, effective treatments are limited by medication-related complications, including multiorgan toxicities and systemic side effects.

SUMMARY

We review the current therapies available to treat pediatric uveitis, discuss novel and future therapies, and provide clinical recommendations utilizing these new agents. The consideration for treatment regimens in noninfectious pediatric uveitis is multifactorial. Understanding past, present, and future technology will aid in treatment of a complex and refractory disease.

Intravenous laser blood irradiation increases efficacy of etanercept in selected subtypes of juvenile idiopathic arthritis: an innovative clinical research approach

This single-blind, placebo-controlled study assesses the efficacy of synergic administration of intravenous laser blood irradiation (ILBI) and etanercept in selected subtypes of juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). Etanercept is a tumor necrosis factor alpha blocking agent with recognized importance in JIA. Laser radiation has immunomodulatory effects in animal and human studies. Fourteen patients (Group I) received ILBI and 9 patients (Group II) received placebo laser. ILBI was performed in addition to ongoing JIA medication, including etanercept. ILBI was administrated in 3 sets of 5 consecutive daily sessions, with a 7-week interval between every set of sessions. Evaluation was performed using ACR (American College of Rheumatology) Pediatric Criteria (ACR Pedi) at study enrollment and at 10 and 20 weeks, respectively. After 10 weeks, 85.7% of the patients in Group I fulfilled Pedi 30 criteria, compared to only 55.6% of the patients in Group II. After 20 weeks, all patients in both groups had a Pedi 30 response. In Group I, 92.8% of the subjects met the Pedi 50 response, compared to only 55.6% in the placebo group. One patient in Group I responded best, fulfilling Pedi 70 criteria. If applied synergistically, ILBI and etanercept would have an increased efficacy in promoting JIA remission.

Monoclonal antibody treatments for rheumatoid arthritis

INTRODUCTION

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic disease and the most prevalent of all autoimmune disorders. Here we review recent advances in the development and availability of biologic agents with a focus on monoclonal antibody or smaller formats of targeted engineered therapeutics including novel, non-antibody-based therapeutics.

AREAS COVERED

Today an array of biologics blocking either proinflammatory cytokines or lymphocyte activation/survival are available that enable a substantial improvement over conventional disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). We review the engineering process of antibody-based biologics, their preclinical and clinical application, and current efforts to treat RA by interfering with B-cell function (notable targets covered are CD20, CD38, B-cell activating factor, transmembrane activator and calcium-modulating and cyclophilin interactor), with T-cell function (CD3, CD4, CD28), with bone erosion (RANKL), and with cytokines or growth factors (tumor necrosis factor, interleukin-1 [IL-1], IL-6, IL-17, VEGF). Future treatment choices might encompass the blockade or modulation of danger-associated molecular patterns such as HMGB1, pattern recognition receptors, messenger RNAs or noncoding RNAs, histone acetylation, and inflammasome components.

EXPERT OPINION

Although current therapies can reduce the signs and symptoms of RA for many patients, the quest for a cure (or a more complete blockade of the structural damage) in RA is still ongoing and will need treatment approaches, which are not exclusively confined to blocking a particular cytokine, receptor, or autoreactive B or T cell involved in disease progression. To this end exciting treatment alternatives and drug targets are on the horizon that may become available to patients in the future.