1
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Sagonas I, Daoussis D. Treatment of digital ulcers in systemic sclerosis: recent developments and future perspectives. Clin Rheumatol 2023; 42:2589-2599. [PMID: 36847929 PMCID: PMC10497679 DOI: 10.1007/s10067-023-06511-0] [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: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 01/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/01/2023]
Abstract
Digital ulcers (DUs) comprise the main manifestation of vasculopathy and are a major cause of disability in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc). A literature search in Web of Science, PubMed and Directory of Open Access Journals was performed in December 2022 to identify articles published in the last decade regarding the management of DUs. Prostacyclin analogues, endothelin antagonists and phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitors have shown promising results both as a stand-alone treatment and in combination for the treatment of existing and prevention of new DUs. Moreover, autologous fat grafting and botulinum toxin injections, although not readily available, can be of use in recalcitrant cases. Many investigational treatments with promising results could pave the way for a paradigm shift in the treatment of DUs in the future. Despite these recent advances, challenges remain. Better-designed trials are of paramount importance to optimise DU treatment in the years to come. Key Points • DUs are a major cause of pain and reduced quality of life in patients with SSc. • Prostacyclin analogues and endothelin antagonists have shown promising results both as a stand-alone treatment and in combination for the treatment of existing and prevention of new DUs. • In the future, a combination of more powerful vasodilatory drugs, perhaps in conjunction with topical approaches, may improve outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis Sagonas
- Rheumazentrum Ruhrgebiet, Ruhr-University Bochum, Herne, Germany
| | - Dimitrios Daoussis
- Department of Rheumatology, Patras University Hospital, University of Patras Medical School, Patras, Greece.
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2
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D’Oria M, Gandin I, Riccardo P, Hughes M, Lepidi S, Salton F, Confalonieri P, Confalonieri M, Tavano S, Ruaro B. Correlation between Microvascular Damage and Internal Organ Involvement in Scleroderma: Focus on Lung Damage and Endothelial Dysfunction. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 13:diagnostics13010055. [PMID: 36611347 PMCID: PMC9818898 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13010055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 12/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an incurable connective tissue disease characterized by decreased peripheral blood perfusion due to microvascular damage and skin thickening/hardening. The microcirculation deficit is typically secondary to structural vessel damage, which can be assessed morphologically and functionally in a variety of ways, exploiting different technologies. OBJECTIVE This paper focuses on reviewing new studies regarding the correlation between microvascular damage, endothelial dysfunction, and internal organ involvement, particularly pulmonary changes in SSc. METHODS We critically reviewed the most recent literature on the correlation between blood perfusion and organ involvement. RESULTS Many papers have demonstrated the link between structural microcirculatory damage and pulmonary involvement; however, studies that have investigated correlations between microvascular functional impairment and internal organ damage are scarce. Overall, the literature supports the correlation between organ involvement and functional microcirculatory impairment in SSc patients. CONCLUSIONS Morphological and functional techniques appear to be emerging biomarkers in SSc, but obviously need further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario D’Oria
- Department of Medical Surgical and Health Sciences, University Hospital of Cattinara, University of Trieste, 34149 Trieste, Italy
| | - Ilaria Gandin
- Biostatistics Unit, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Trieste, 34149 Trieste, Italy
| | - Pozzan Riccardo
- Pulmonology Unit, Department of Medical Surgical and Health Sciences, University Hospital of Cattinara, University of Trieste, 34149 Trieste, Italy
| | - Michael Hughes
- Northern Care Alliance NHS Foundation Trust, Salford Care Organisation and Division of Musculoskeletal and Dermatological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester M6 8HD, UK
| | - Sandro Lepidi
- Department of Medical Surgical and Health Sciences, University Hospital of Cattinara, University of Trieste, 34149 Trieste, Italy
| | - Francesco Salton
- Pulmonology Unit, Department of Medical Surgical and Health Sciences, University Hospital of Cattinara, University of Trieste, 34149 Trieste, Italy
| | - Paola Confalonieri
- Pulmonology Unit, Department of Medical Surgical and Health Sciences, University Hospital of Cattinara, University of Trieste, 34149 Trieste, Italy
| | - Marco Confalonieri
- Pulmonology Unit, Department of Medical Surgical and Health Sciences, University Hospital of Cattinara, University of Trieste, 34149 Trieste, Italy
| | - Stefano Tavano
- Pulmonology Unit, Department of Medical Surgical and Health Sciences, University Hospital of Cattinara, University of Trieste, 34149 Trieste, Italy
| | - Barbara Ruaro
- Pulmonology Unit, Department of Medical Surgical and Health Sciences, University Hospital of Cattinara, University of Trieste, 34149 Trieste, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-040-399-4871
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3
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Gautam SK, Dalal V, Sajja BR, Gupta S, Gulati M, Dwivedi NV, Aithal A, Cox JL, Rachagani S, Liu Y, Chung V, Salgia R, Batra SK, Jain M. Endothelin-axis antagonism enhances tumor perfusion in pancreatic cancer. Cancer Lett 2022; 544:215801. [PMID: 35732216 PMCID: PMC10198578 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2022.215801] [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: 03/14/2022] [Revised: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Delivery of therapeutic agents in pancreatic cancer (PC) is impaired due to its hypovascular and desmoplastic tumor microenvironment. The Endothelin (ET)-axis is the major regulator of vasomotor tone under physiological conditions and is highly upregulated in multiple cancers. We investigated the effect of dual endothelin receptor antagonist bosentan on perfusion and macromolecular transport in a PC cell-fibroblast co-implantation tumor model using Dynamic Contrast-Enhanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging (DCE-MRI). Following bosentan treatment, the contrast enhancement ratio and wash-in rates in tumors were two- and nine times higher, respectively, compared to the controls, whereas the time to peak was significantly shorter (7.29 ± 1.29 min v/s 22.08 ± 5.88 min; p = 0.04). Importantly, these effects were tumor selective as the magnitudes of change for these parameters were much lower in muscles. Bosentan treatment also reduced desmoplasia and improved intratumoral distribution of high molecular weight FITC-dextran. Overall, these findings support that targeting the ET-axis can serve as a potential strategy to selectively enhance tumor perfusion and improve the delivery of therapeutic agents in pancreatic tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shailendra K Gautam
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
| | - Vipin Dalal
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
| | - Balasrinivasa R Sajja
- Department of Radiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
| | - Suprit Gupta
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
| | - Mansi Gulati
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
| | - Nidhi V Dwivedi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
| | - Abhijit Aithal
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
| | - Jesse L Cox
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
| | - Satyanarayana Rachagani
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
| | - Yutong Liu
- Department of Radiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
| | - Vincent Chung
- Department of Medical Oncology and Experimental Therapeutics, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, CA, 91010, USA
| | - Ravi Salgia
- Department of Medical Oncology and Experimental Therapeutics, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, CA, 91010, USA
| | - Surinder K Batra
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA; Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
| | - Maneesh Jain
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA; Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA.
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4
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Chronic Thromboembolic Pulmonary Hypertension: An Update. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:diagnostics12020235. [PMID: 35204326 PMCID: PMC8871284 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12020235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 01/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) is a rare disease observed in a small proportion of patients after acute pulmonary embolism (PE). CTEPH has a high morbidity and mortality rate, related to the PH severity, and a poor prognosis, which mirrors the right ventricular dysfunction involvement. Pulmonary endarterectomy (PEA) reduces pulmonary vascular resistance, making it the treatment of choice and should be offered to operable CTEPH patients, as significant symptomatic and prognostic improvement has been observed. Moreover, these patients may also benefit from the advances made in surgical techniques and pulmonary hypertension-specific medication. However, not all patients are eligible for PEA surgery, as some have either distal pulmonary vascular obstruction and/or significant comorbidities. Therefore, surgical candidates should be carefully selected by an interprofessional team in expert centers. This review aims at making an overview of the risk factors and latest developments in diagnostic tools and treatment options for CTEPH.
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5
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Vanhaecke A, Debusschere C, Cutolo M, Smith V. Predictive value of laser speckle contrast analysis in systemic sclerosis. A systematic review and pilot study. Eur J Clin Invest 2022; 52:e13672. [PMID: 34424550 DOI: 10.1111/eci.13672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Revised: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess whether tools to functionally examine the microcirculation, such as laser speckle contrast analysis (LASCA), are predictive of ischaemic digital trophic lesions ([i]DTL) in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc). METHODS First, a systematic review (according to PRISMA) was conducted to identify studies describing a link between LASCA and SSc-related (i)DTL. In the additional pilot study, consecutive SSc patients underwent clinical and LASCA examinations (to assess the peripheral blood perfusion [PBP] of both hands) at enrolment. For one year, a monthly telephone survey was conducted to investigate (i)DTL occurrence. Logistic regression and ROC analysis were performed. RESULTS None of the three manuscripts retained through the systematic review examined the predictive value of LASCA for future (i)DTL. In our pilot study, 7/106 (6.6%) SSc patients developed at least one iDTL during follow-up, with PBP not found to be predictive (OR = 0.995, p = .418; ROC-AUC = 0.597). Post hoc, when only patients not taking vasodilators were analysed (n = 57), all three who developed iDTL had an average PBP ≤ 70 PU, while only 9/54 (16.7%) patients without iDTL occurrence had such values. CONCLUSION A predictive role of LASCA for (i)DTL has not yet been described in the literature and could also not be attested by our additional pilot study, due to a lower-than-expected iDTL incidence in our day-to-day SSc population in which patients were allowed to continue their vasodilator medication. However, the promising observations in the subgroup of vasodilator-naïve patients encourage further investigation of this potential added value of LASCA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amber Vanhaecke
- Department of Internal Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.,Department of Rheumatology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Claire Debusschere
- Department of Internal Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.,Department of Rheumatology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Maurizio Cutolo
- Laboratory of Experimental Rheumatology and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa, IRCCS San Martino Polyclinic Hospital, Genoa, Italy
| | - Vanessa Smith
- Department of Internal Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.,Department of Rheumatology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium.,Unit for Molecular Immunology and Inflammation, VIB Inflammation Research Center, Ghent, Belgium
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6
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Detection of microvascular changes in systemic sclerosis and other rheumatic diseases. Nat Rev Rheumatol 2021; 17:665-677. [PMID: 34561652 DOI: 10.1038/s41584-021-00685-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Morphological and functional analysis of the microcirculation are objective outcome measures that are recommended for use in the presence of clinical signs of altered peripheral blood flow (such as Raynaud phenomenon), which can occur in systemic sclerosis (SSc) and other autoimmune rheumatic diseases. Several advanced non-invasive tools are available for monitoring the microcirculation, including nailfold videocapillaroscopy, which is the best-studied and most commonly used method for distinguishing and quantifying microvascular morphological alterations in SSc. Nailfold videocapillaroscopy can also be used alongside laser Doppler techniques to assist in the early diagnosis and follow-up of patients with dermatomyositis or mixed connective tissue disease. Power Doppler ultrasonography, which has been used for many years to evaluate the vascularity of synovial tissue in rheumatoid arthritis, is another promising tool for the analysis of skin and nailbed capillary perfusion in other autoimmune rheumatic diseases. Other emerging methods include raster-scanning optoacoustic mesoscopy, which offers non-invasive high-resolution 3D visualization of capillaries and has been tested in psoriatic arthritis and SSc. The principle functions and operative characteristics of several non-invasive tools for analysing microvascular changes are outlined in this Review, and the clinical roles of validated or tested imaging methods are discussed for autoimmune rheumatic diseases.
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7
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Ruaro B, Bruni C, Wade B, Baratella E, Confalonieri P, Antonaglia C, Geri P, Biolo M, Confalonieri M, Salton F. Laser Speckle Contrast Analysis: Functional Evaluation of Microvascular Damage in Connective Tissue Diseases. Is There Evidence of Correlations With Organ Involvement, Such as Pulmonary Damage? Front Physiol 2021; 12:710298. [PMID: 34707506 PMCID: PMC8542764 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.710298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Laser speckle contrast analysis (LASCA) is a non-contact technique able to quantify peripheral blood perfusion (PBP) over large skin areas. LASCA has been used to study hand PBP in several clinical conditions. These include systemic sclerosis (SSc) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and LASCA showed that PBP was significantly lower in these conditions than in healthy subjects (HS). Moreover, it has been demonstrated that LASCA is a safe technique also able to monitor digital ulcer perfusion and their evolution in SSc patients, during systemic and local treatment. The use of LASCA, coupled with reactivity tests is commonplace in the field of microvascular function research. Post-occlusive hyperemia reactivity (POHR) and local thermal hyperemia, associated with laser techniques are reliable tests in the evaluation of perfusion in SSc patients. Other studies used laser speckled techniques, together with acetylcholine and sodium nitroprusside iontophoresis, as specific tests of endothelium function. In conclusion, LASCA is a safe, non-contact reliable instrument for the quantification of PBP at skin level and can also be associated with reactivity tests to monitor disease progression and response to treatment in different connective tissue diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Ruaro
- Unit of Pulmonology, University Hospital of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Cosimo Bruni
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Careggi University Hospital, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Barbara Wade
- AOU City of Health and Science of Turin, Department of Science of Public Health and Pediatrics, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Elisa Baratella
- Department of Radiology, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health Science, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | | | | | - Pietro Geri
- Unit of Pulmonology, University Hospital of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Marco Biolo
- Unit of Pulmonology, University Hospital of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | | | - Francesco Salton
- Unit of Pulmonology, University Hospital of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
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8
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Machikhin AS, Volkov MV, Khokhlov DD, Lovchikova ED, Potemkin AV, Danilycheva IV, Dorofeeva IV, Shulzhenko AE. Exoscope-based videocapillaroscopy system for in vivo skin microcirculation imaging of various body areas. BIOMEDICAL OPTICS EXPRESS 2021; 12:4627-4636. [PMID: 34513213 PMCID: PMC8407810 DOI: 10.1364/boe.420786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Revised: 06/20/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The capillary system immediately responds to many pathologies and environmental conditions. Accurate monitoring of its functioning often enables early detection of various diseases related to disorders in skin microcirculation. To expand the scope of capillaroscopy application, it is reasonable to visualize and assess blood microcirculation exactly in the areas of inflamed skin. Body vibrations, breathing, non-flat skin surface and other factors hamper the application of conventional capillaroscopes outside the nailfold area. In this paper, we propose an exoscope-based optical system for high-quality non-invasive computational imaging of capillary network in various areas of the body. Accurate image matching and tracking temporal intensity variations allow detecting the presence of blood pulsations, precise mapping of capillaries and photoplethysmogram acquisition. We have demonstrated the efficiency of the proposed approach experimentally by in vivo mapping and analysis of microvessels in wrist, forearm, upper-arm, breast and hip areas. We believe that the developed system will increase the diagnostic value of video capillaroscopy in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander S. Machikhin
- Laboratory of Acousto-optic Spectroscopy, Scientific and Technological Center of Unique Instrumentation, Russian Academy of Sciences, 15 Butlerova, 117342, Moscow, Russia
| | - Mikhail V. Volkov
- Faculty of Applied Optics, ITMO University, 49 Kronverksky, 197101, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Demid D. Khokhlov
- Laboratory of Acousto-optic Spectroscopy, Scientific and Technological Center of Unique Instrumentation, Russian Academy of Sciences, 15 Butlerova, 117342, Moscow, Russia
| | - Ekaterina D. Lovchikova
- Laboratory of Acousto-optic Spectroscopy, Scientific and Technological Center of Unique Instrumentation, Russian Academy of Sciences, 15 Butlerova, 117342, Moscow, Russia
| | - Andrey V. Potemkin
- Faculty of Applied Optics, ITMO University, 49 Kronverksky, 197101, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Inna V. Danilycheva
- Department of Allergology and Immunotherapy, Institute of Immunology, Federal Medical Biological Agency, 24 Kashirskoe, 115522, Moscow, Russia
| | - Irina V. Dorofeeva
- Department of Allergology and Immunotherapy, Institute of Immunology, Federal Medical Biological Agency, 24 Kashirskoe, 115522, Moscow, Russia
| | - Andrey E. Shulzhenko
- Department of Allergology and Immunotherapy, Institute of Immunology, Federal Medical Biological Agency, 24 Kashirskoe, 115522, Moscow, Russia
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9
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Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare complex disease, characterized by microvascular damage, auto-immunity, and fibrosis. Nailfold capillary microscopy (NCM), a safe and noninvasive imaging technique, can be used to visualize specific microvascular alterations in SSc. In this review, we discuss an interesting case of a patient with changes in microvascular pattern on NCM after pulmonary transplantation. We provide an overview of microvascular alterations in systemic sclerosis and the evidence in the literature about the effect of vasoactive and immunomodulation therapy on these vascular changes. We also outline the influence of pulmonal pathology, such as interstitial lung disease and pulmonary arterial hypertension, on the capillaroscopic pattern, and finally, we discuss how NCM could possibly serve as a biomarker of treatment.
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10
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Barsotti S, Lorenzoni V, Di Battista M, d'Ascanio A, Silvia B, Puccetti L, Turchetti G, Della Rossa A, Mosca M. Prostanoids in scleroderma microangiopathy: clinical and pharmacoeconomic comparison between two intravenous regimens. Scand J Rheumatol 2021; 50:307-313. [PMID: 33622195 DOI: 10.1080/03009742.2020.1845395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Objectives: Intravenous iloprost (ILO) has widely demonstrated its effectiveness and safety in systemic sclerosis (SSc) patients. Unfortunately, there is no clear consent about dosage, duration, frequency, and infusion modality. The aim of this study was to compare two different therapeutic schemes in the same cohort of consecutive SSc subjects, evaluating differences in terms of effectiveness [digital ulcer (DU) outcome], safety, and direct healthcare costs.Method: This was a retrospective observational study of 47 patients classified with SSc treated with intravenous ILO for severe Raynaud's phenomenon and/or DUs. Two regimens were compared: a continuous inpatient scheme and a daily outpatient scheme. Demographics and clinical data, concomitant therapies, adverse events, and data on resource use and costs were collected.Results: The number of DUs rose slightly with the switch from the continuous to the daily scheme (0.61 ± 1.2 vs 1.1 ± 1.7). Moreover, in the daily scheme there was an increase in the number of therapeutic cycles (2.4 ± 0.7 vs 4.71 ± 1.4, p < 0.001) and an increase in patients treated with other vasoactive drugs. There was a reduction in ILO tolerability and more than half of the patients suspended the treatment. Five patients required hospitalization for severe and refractory DUs in the daily scheme. Moreover, the costs of the two treatments were comparable [median 7174 (range 2748-18 524) EUR vs 6284 (3232-22 706) EUR, p = 0.712].Conclusion: Treatment with a daily scheme of ILO is characterized by worse tolerability and a higher dropout rate compared to a low-flow regimen, with similar costs. We suggest that a low-flow continuous therapeutic scheme is preferable in SSc patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Barsotti
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - V Lorenzoni
- Institute of Management, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - M Di Battista
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - A d'Ascanio
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - B Silvia
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - L Puccetti
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - G Turchetti
- Institute of Management, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - A Della Rossa
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - M Mosca
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
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11
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Abstract
Raynaud's phenomenon, which is characterized by episodic digital pallor, cyanosis and rubor upon exposure to cold environment or to stress, is relatively common, although the prevalence depends on the climate. Still, it is under-diagnosed, under-treated, and often confused with other conditions. Primary Raynaud's phenomenon (i.e., Raynaud disease) must be distinguished from secondary Raynaud's phenomenon (i.e., Raynaud syndrome) as long-term morbidity and outcomes differ vastly between the two conditions. Additionally, the practitioner must differentiate between Raynaud's phenomenon and related vascular disorders, such as acrocyanosis, pernio, and livedo reticularis. In this article, we review differences between the conditions and suggest an approach to diagnosis and treatment strategy for these disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eunjung Choi
- Heart and Vascular Center, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH, USA
| | - Stanislav Henkin
- Heart and Vascular Center, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH, USA
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12
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Hughes M, Bruni C, Ruaro B, Confalonieri M, Matucci-Cerinic M, Bellando-Randone S. Digital Ulcers in Systemic Sclerosis. Presse Med 2021; 50:104064. [PMID: 33548375 DOI: 10.1016/j.lpm.2021.104064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Digital ulcers (DU) are one of the most common complication of Systemic Sclerosis (SSc)-related vasculopathy and represent an important burden for the patients as well as for the society. Still today there is no agreement on the definition, classification and cathegorization of DU even if they are of pivotal importance in clinical practice, for treatment choice and prognostic outcomes, as well as for clinical trials. DU management requires a dedicated multidisciplinary team, that must remain ever vigilant for the development of infective complications and gangrene throughout their disease course, as well as patient education that is crucial to obtain the best compliance to assure the success of the treatment. Currently several drugs are available for DU treatment but in the future, more investigations will be needed to ameliorate the approach and the systemic and local therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Hughes
- Department of Rheumatology, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield, UK
| | - Cosimo Bruni
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Firenze, & Department of Geriatric Medicine, Division of Rheumatology AOUC, Firenze, Italy
| | - Barbara Ruaro
- Pulmonology Department, University Hospital of Cattinara, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Marco Confalonieri
- Pulmonology Department, University Hospital of Cattinara, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Marco Matucci-Cerinic
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Firenze, & Department of Geriatric Medicine, Division of Rheumatology AOUC, Firenze, Italy
| | - Silvia Bellando-Randone
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Firenze, & Department of Geriatric Medicine, Division of Rheumatology AOUC, Firenze, Italy.
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13
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Pauling JD, Hackett N, Guida A, Merkel PA. Performance of laser-derived imaging for assessing digital perfusion in clinical trials of systemic sclerosis-related digital vasculopathy: A systematic literature review. Semin Arthritis Rheum 2020; 50:1114-1130. [DOI: 10.1016/j.semarthrit.2020.06.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2020] [Revised: 06/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
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14
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Ruaro B, Nallino MG, Casabella A, Salton F, Confalonieri P, De Tanti A, Bruni C. Monitoring the microcirculation in the diagnosis and follow-up of systemic sclerosis patients: Focus on pulmonary and peripheral vascular manifestations. Microcirculation 2020; 27:e12647. [PMID: 32603500 DOI: 10.1111/micc.12647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2020] [Revised: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a connective tissue disease, characterized by vascular damage and progressive fibrosis, affecting the skin and internal organs. The vascular changes include functional and structural abnormalities in the microcirculation, which play a central role not only in diagnosis but also in the prognosis and follow-up of systemic sclerosis patients. Nailfold videocapillaroscopy (NVC) is a safe, validated, noninvasive, inexpensive, reliable, and reproducible method that allows for the evaluation of structural changes in scleroderma microangiopathy. However, capillary blood flow/perfusion cannot be measured by NVC under standard conditions and, consequently, must rely on various laser techniques and thermography for the assessment and quantification of cutaneous blood perfusion. Other emerging technologies, such as optical Doppler tomography and spectroscopy, may be used to evaluate the skin flow. This review updates current knowledge on the use of microvascular evaluation techniques in SSc, including complications such as digital ulcers and pulmonary arterial hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Andrea Casabella
- Department of Internal Medicine (Di.M.I.), Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, San Martino Polyclinic Hospital, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
| | | | | | - Antonio De Tanti
- Cardinal Ferrari Center, S. Stefano Rehabilitation, Fontanellato (Parma), Italy
| | - Cosimo Bruni
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Firenze, Firenze, Italy
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15
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The preliminary validation of laser Doppler flowmetry in systemic sclerosis in accordance with the OMERACT filter: A systematic review. Semin Arthritis Rheum 2020; 50:321-328. [DOI: 10.1016/j.semarthrit.2019.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2019] [Revised: 07/09/2019] [Accepted: 08/21/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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16
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Panopoulos S, Chatzidionysiou Κ, Tektonidou MG, Bournia VK, Drosos AA, Liossis SNC, Dimitroulas T, Sakkas L, Boumpas D, Voulgari PV, Daoussis D, Thomas K, Georgiopoulos G, Vosvotekas G, Garyfallos Α, Sidiropoulos P, Bertsias G, Vassilopoulos D, Sfikakis PP. Treatment modalities and drug survival in a systemic sclerosis real-life patient cohort. Arthritis Res Ther 2020; 22:56. [PMID: 32293545 PMCID: PMC7092571 DOI: 10.1186/s13075-020-2140-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2019] [Accepted: 03/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND European data indicate that systemic sclerosis (SSc)-related death rates are increasing, thus raising concerns about SSc's optimal management. Herein, we describe current treatment modalities and drug survival in a real-life SSc cohort. METHODS Details on immunosuppressive/antiproliferative (methotrexate, mycophenolate, cyclophosphamide, azathioprine, rituximab, tocilizumab) and vasoactive agent [(endothelin receptor antagonists (ERAs), sildenafil, iloprost, and calcium channel blockers (CCB)] administration during the disease course (11.8 ± 8.4 years, mean + SD) of 497 consecutive patients examined between 2016 and 2018 were retrospectively recorded. Drug survival was assessed by Kaplan-Meier analysis. RESULTS Methotrexate was the most frequently administered immunosuppressive/antiproliferative agent (53% of patients), followed by cyclophosphamide (26%), mycophenolate (12%), and azathioprine (11%). Regarding vasoactive agents, CCB had been ever administered in 68%, ERAs in 38%, iloprost in 7%, and sildenafil in 7% of patients; 23% of patients with pulmonary fibrosis had never received immunosuppressive/antiproliferative agents, 33% of those with digital ulcers had never received ERAs, iloprost, or sildenafil, whereas 19% of all patients had never received either immunosuppressive/antiproliferative or other than CCB vasoactive agents. Survival rates of methotrexate, cyclophosphamide, and mycophenolate differed significantly, being 84/75%, 59/43%, and 74/63% at 12/24 months, respectively, with inefficacy being the most frequent discontinuation cause. Conversely, CCB, ERAs, and sildenafil had high and comparable retention rates of 97/91%, 88/86%, and 80/80%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Existing therapeutic limitations indicate that more evidence-based treatment is warranted for successful management of SSc. Vasculopathy seems to be managed more rigorously, but the low retention rates of immunosuppressive/antiproliferative drugs suggest that effective and targeted disease-modifying agents are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Panopoulos
- Joint Rheumatology Program, 1st Department of Propedeutic Internal Medicine-Rheumatology Unit, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Medicine, Laikon General Hospital, 17 Agiou Thoma str., 115 27, Athens, Greece.
| | - Κ Chatzidionysiou
- Joint Rheumatology Program, 1st Department of Propedeutic Internal Medicine-Rheumatology Unit, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Medicine, Laikon General Hospital, 17 Agiou Thoma str., 115 27, Athens, Greece
| | - M G Tektonidou
- Joint Rheumatology Program, 1st Department of Propedeutic Internal Medicine-Rheumatology Unit, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Medicine, Laikon General Hospital, 17 Agiou Thoma str., 115 27, Athens, Greece
| | - V K Bournia
- Joint Rheumatology Program, 1st Department of Propedeutic Internal Medicine-Rheumatology Unit, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Medicine, Laikon General Hospital, 17 Agiou Thoma str., 115 27, Athens, Greece
| | - A A Drosos
- Rheumatology Clinic, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Stamatis-Nick C Liossis
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Patras University Hospital, Medical School, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - T Dimitroulas
- 4th Department of Internal Medicine, Hippokration General Hospital, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - L Sakkas
- Department of Rheumatology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - D Boumpas
- Joint Rheumatology Program, 4th Department of Internal Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Medicine, Attikon University Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - P V Voulgari
- Rheumatology Clinic, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - D Daoussis
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Patras University Hospital, Medical School, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - K Thomas
- Joint Rheumatology Program, Clinical Immunology -Rheumatology Unit, 2nd Department of Medicine and Laboratory, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Medicine, Hippokration General Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - G Georgiopoulos
- Joint Rheumatology Program, Clinical Immunology -Rheumatology Unit, 2nd Department of Medicine and Laboratory, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Medicine, Hippokration General Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - G Vosvotekas
- 1st Department of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, School of Medicine, University General Hospital of Thessaloniki AHEPA, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Α Garyfallos
- 4th Department of Internal Medicine, Hippokration General Hospital, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - P Sidiropoulos
- Department of Clinical Rheumatology, Clinical Immunology and Allergy, Faculty of Medicine-University of Crete, Heraklion, Greece
| | - G Bertsias
- Department of Clinical Rheumatology, Clinical Immunology and Allergy, Faculty of Medicine-University of Crete, Heraklion, Greece
| | - D Vassilopoulos
- Joint Rheumatology Program, Clinical Immunology -Rheumatology Unit, 2nd Department of Medicine and Laboratory, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Medicine, Hippokration General Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - P P Sfikakis
- Joint Rheumatology Program, 1st Department of Propedeutic Internal Medicine-Rheumatology Unit, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Medicine, Laikon General Hospital, 17 Agiou Thoma str., 115 27, Athens, Greece
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Nailfold capillaroscopy in rheumatology: ready for the daily use but with care in terminology. Clin Rheumatol 2019; 38:2293-2297. [DOI: 10.1007/s10067-019-04716-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2019] [Accepted: 07/24/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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18
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Yu S, Hu SCS, Yu HS, Chin YY, Cheng YC, Lee CH. Early sign of microangiopathy in systemic sclerosis: The significance of cold stress test in dynamic laser Doppler flowmetry. Clin Hemorheol Microcirc 2019; 71:373-378. [DOI: 10.3233/ch-180419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Yu
- Department of Dermatology, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Department of Dermatology, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Department of Dermatology, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, USA
| | - Stephen Chu-Sung Hu
- Department of Dermatology, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Department of Dermatology, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Su Yu
- Department of Dermatology, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Department of Dermatology, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli County, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Ying Chin
- Department of Dermatology, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Department of Dermatology, Kaohsiung Municipal Hsiao-Kang Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Yang-Chun Cheng
- Department of Dermatology, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Hung Lee
- Department of Dermatology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
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Ruaro B, Smith V, Sulli A, Pizzorni C, Tardito S, Patané M, Paolino S, Cutolo M. Innovations in the Assessment of Primary and Secondary Raynaud's Phenomenon. Front Pharmacol 2019; 10:360. [PMID: 31073287 PMCID: PMC6495407 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.00360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2018] [Accepted: 03/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: Raynaud's phenomenon (RP) is characterized by intense vasospasm of the digital arteries that causes characteristic color changes in fingers. There are two main types of RP: Primary RP (PRP) and Secondary RP (SRP). PRP is a benign condition. Whilst SRP is associated with several connective tissue diseases (CTD), in particular systemic sclerosis (SSc). The objectives of this report were: to present a short review on morphological (nailfold videocapillaroscopy, NVC) and functional techniques (laser tools and thermography) that allow for a correct diagnosis and treatment of RP and to investigate blood perfusion (BP) by laser speckle contrast analysis (LASCA) in different skin areas of hands and face in PRP, SRP to SSc, and healthy subjects (CNT). Methods: 31 PRP patients (LeRoy criteria), 70 SRP to SSc (ACR/EULAR criteria) and 68 CNT were enrolled. BP was assessed by LASCA at the level different areas of hands and face. NVC was performed to distinguish between PRP and SRP, and to detect the proper pattern of nailfold microangiopathy in SSc patients. Results: Both PRP and SRP showed a statistically significant lower BP than CNT at the level of fingertips (p < 0.0001), periungual (p < 0.0001), palmar aspect of 3rd finger (p < 0.0001), and palm areas (p < 0.0001). Moreover, BP was significantly lower in PRP than in SRP to SSc with the "Early" pattern of microangiopathy in the same areas as above (p < 0.04). Conclusion: By considering a small cohort of patients, BP of hands was found lower in PRP than in SSc patients with the "Early" NVC pattern of microangiopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Ruaro
- Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine (Di.M.I.), San Martino Polyclinic Hospital, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Vanessa Smith
- Department of Rheumatology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Internal Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Unit for Molecular Immunology and Inflammation, VIB Inflammation Research Center (IRC), Ghent, Belgium
| | - Alberto Sulli
- Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine (Di.M.I.), San Martino Polyclinic Hospital, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Carmen Pizzorni
- Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine (Di.M.I.), San Martino Polyclinic Hospital, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Samuele Tardito
- Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine (Di.M.I.), San Martino Polyclinic Hospital, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Massimo Patané
- Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine (Di.M.I.), San Martino Polyclinic Hospital, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Sabrina Paolino
- Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine (Di.M.I.), San Martino Polyclinic Hospital, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Maurizio Cutolo
- Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine (Di.M.I.), San Martino Polyclinic Hospital, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
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20
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Ruaro B, Pizzorni C, Paolino S, Alessandri E, Sulli A. Aminaphtone Efficacy in Primary and Secondary Raynaud's Phenomenon: A Feasibility Study. Front Pharmacol 2019; 10:293. [PMID: 31019461 PMCID: PMC6458253 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.00293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2019] [Accepted: 03/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives The aim of this six-month open feasibility study was to evaluate skin blood perfusion and clinical symptom changes during aminaphtone treatment in patients with either primary or secondary Raynaud’s phenomenon to systemic sclerosis. Methods Ninety-two patients referring for Raynaud’s phenomenon have been enrolled in November during routine clinical assessment, after informed consent. Aminaphtone was administered 75 mg twice daily in addition to current treatments to forty-six patients. Skin blood perfusion was measured by Laser Speckle Contrast Analysis (LASCA) at the level of fingertips, periungual areas, dorsum and palm of hands, and face at baseline (W0), after one (W1), four (W4), twelve (W12) and twenty-four (W24) weeks of treatment. Raynaud’s condition score (RCS) and both frequency and duration of Raynaud’s attacks were assessed at the same time. Results Compared with the control group, despite colder period of the year, aminaphtone treated patients showed a progressive statistically significant increase of blood perfusion, as well as a decrease of RCS, frequency of Raynaud’s attacks/day and their duration, from W0 to W12 in all skin areas. From W12 to W24 no further increase of blood perfusion was observed. The results were similar in both primary and secondary Raynaud’s phenomenon patients. Five weeks after aminaphtone discontinuation blood perfusion values were significantly higher than those at baseline in the majority of skin areas. Conclusion This study demonstrates that aminaphtone treatment increases skin blood perfusion and improves Raynaud’s phenomenon clinical symptoms, with sustained efficacy up to 6 months, even in patients with systemic sclerosis. A randomized, blind, controlled, clinical trial including a larger number of subjects is advisable to confirm these early results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Ruaro
- Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genova, IRCCS San Martino Polyclinic Hospital, Genova, Italy
| | - Carmen Pizzorni
- Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genova, IRCCS San Martino Polyclinic Hospital, Genova, Italy
| | - Sabrina Paolino
- Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genova, IRCCS San Martino Polyclinic Hospital, Genova, Italy
| | - Elisa Alessandri
- Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genova, IRCCS San Martino Polyclinic Hospital, Genova, Italy
| | - Alberto Sulli
- Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genova, IRCCS San Martino Polyclinic Hospital, Genova, Italy
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21
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Schioppo T, Orenti A, Boracchi P, De Lucia O, Murgo A, Ingegnoli F. Evidence of macro- and micro-angiopathy in scleroderma: An integrated approach combining 22-MHz power Doppler ultrasonography and video-capillaroscopy. Microvasc Res 2019; 122:125-130. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mvr.2018.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2018] [Revised: 07/03/2018] [Accepted: 07/04/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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22
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Long-term follow-up of nailfold videocapillaroscopic changes in dermatomyositis versus systemic sclerosis patients. Clin Rheumatol 2018; 37:2723-2729. [DOI: 10.1007/s10067-018-4211-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2018] [Revised: 07/04/2018] [Accepted: 07/09/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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23
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Hinze AM, Wigley FM. Pharmacotherapy Options in the Management of Raynaud's Phenomenon. CURRENT TREATMENT OPTIONS IN RHEUMATOLOGY 2018; 4:235-254. [PMID: 31538045 DOI: 10.1007/s40674-018-0102-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Purpose of review Multiple classes of medications have been studied for the treatment of Raynaud's phenomenon (RP) with or without digital ischemia. The goal of this review is to discuss the outcomes of recent studies and to report on our approach to the management of RP in light of the available evidence. Recent findings Comparing treatments for RP remains a challenge as efficacy endpoint vary widely among trials. While calcium channel blockers are used first-line in the pharmacologic management of RP, phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitors have also been shown to be beneficial in reducing symptoms. In the setting of digital ischemia, administration of intravenous prostanoids is the standard of care. Bosentan has shown benefit in the prevention of future ulcers in patients with scleroderma. Botulinum toxin therapy was ineffective in a clinical trial involving scleroderma patients; more controlled studies are needed in other subsets of patients. Digital sympathectomy may be beneficial in cases of critical digital ischemia, though recurrence of symptoms is common. Summary Comparative effectiveness studies are needed to determine which therapeutic interventions are most beneficial in patients with RP. Based on the available evidence, we start with CCBs and add a phosphodiesterase inhibitor if symptoms are not controlled, or intravenous prostacyclin in the setting of severe critical digital ischemia. We may additionally add an endothelial receptor antagonist in cases of recurrent digital ulcers. A surgical sympathectomy may be used in refractory cases of digital ischemia. A digital block may also be a less invasive, but temporary, intervention allowing for titration of medical therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicia M Hinze
- Division of Rheumatology, Johns Hopkins University, 5200 Eastern Avenue, MFL Building, Center Tower Ste. 4100, Baltimore, MD, 21224
| | - Fredrick M Wigley
- Division of Rheumatology, Johns Hopkins University, 5200 Eastern Avenue, MFL Building, Center Tower Ste. 4100, Baltimore, MD, 21224
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24
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Ruaro B, Sulli A, Smith V, Pizzorni C, Paolino S, Alessandri E, Trombetta AC, Cutolo M. Advances in nailfold capillaroscopic analysis in systemic sclerosis. JOURNAL OF SCLERODERMA AND RELATED DISORDERS 2018; 3:122-131. [PMID: 35382238 PMCID: PMC8892861 DOI: 10.1177/2397198318757699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2017] [Accepted: 01/03/2018] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis is an autoimmune connective tissue disease characterized by early and persistent microvascular impairment which leads to functional and organic manifestations, with progressive fibrosis of the skin and internal organs. Morphological and functional assessment of the peripheral microvasculature is a must, not only for diagnosis but also for the prognosis and therapeutical follow-up of systemic sclerosis patients, as reported in recent studies. Nailfold videocapillaroscopy is the validated technique for the study of scleroderma microangiopathy as it is able to detect peripheral microvascular morphology and both classify and score the capillary abnormalities into different microangiopathy patterns ('Early', 'Active' and 'Late'). Indeed, the possibility to early diagnose and follow the microvascular changes and the safety of the technique have made nailfold videocapillaroscopy a mandatory tool for patient evaluation and included its assessment in the new systemic sclerosis classification criteria. Important links between nailfold videocapillaroscopy patterns and systemic sclerosis clinical manifestations have been described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Ruaro
- Research Laboratory and Academic
Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of
Genova, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Alberto Sulli
- Research Laboratory and Academic
Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of
Genova, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Vanessa Smith
- Department of Rheumatology, Ghent
University Hospital, Department of Internal Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent,
Belgium
| | - Carmen Pizzorni
- Research Laboratory and Academic
Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of
Genova, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Sabrina Paolino
- Research Laboratory and Academic
Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of
Genova, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Elisa Alessandri
- Research Laboratory and Academic
Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of
Genova, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Amelia Chiara Trombetta
- Research Laboratory and Academic
Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of
Genova, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Maurizio Cutolo
- Research Laboratory and Academic
Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of
Genova, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
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Schioppo T, Orenti A, Boracchi P, De Lucia O, Murgo A, Ingegnoli F. Acute and chronic effects of two different intravenous iloprost regimens in systemic sclerosis: a pragmatic non-randomized trial. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2018; 57:1408-1416. [DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/key113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Tommaso Schioppo
- Division of Rheumatology, ASST Pini-CTO, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Annalisa Orenti
- Department of Clinical Sciences & Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
- Lab of Medical Statistics, Epidemiology and Biometry GA Maccacaro, Milan, Italy
| | - Patrizia Boracchi
- Department of Clinical Sciences & Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
- Lab of Medical Statistics, Epidemiology and Biometry GA Maccacaro, Milan, Italy
| | - Orazio De Lucia
- Division of Rheumatology, ASST Pini-CTO, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Antonella Murgo
- Division of Rheumatology, ASST Pini-CTO, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesca Ingegnoli
- Division of Rheumatology, ASST Pini-CTO, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
- Department of Clinical Sciences & Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
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Mihai C, Smith V, Dobrota R, Gheorghiu AM, Cutolo M, Distler O. The emerging application of semi-quantitative and quantitative capillaroscopy in systemic sclerosis. Microvasc Res 2018; 118:113-120. [PMID: 29544760 DOI: 10.1016/j.mvr.2018.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2017] [Revised: 03/10/2018] [Accepted: 03/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a connective tissue disease with high morbidity and mortality, characterized by autoimmunity, obliterative vasculopathy involving mainly the microvasculature, and fibrosis. SSc-specific nailfold capillaroscopic changes have been defined, and nailfold capillaroscopy (NFC) is now unequivocally accepted to be a cornerstone for the early diagnosis of SSc. However, the use of NFC in patients already diagnosed with SSc is still not standardized. Several studies have shown that NFC abnormalities correlate with disease activity and severity and are predictive for disease worsening, such as occurrence of new digital ulcers. More importantly, successful treatment has been shown to diminish NFC abnormalities in severe SSc cases. These findings support the importance of NFC in monitoring patients with SSc and even its role as an outcome measure in SSc clinical trials. It is a matter of debate if Semi-quantitative and Quantitative NFC would be a more sensitive tool than qualitative NFC for meeting these objectives. This review is presenting the emerging application of Semi-quantitative and Quantitative NFC in SSc and its potential benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carina Mihai
- Department of Internal Medicine and Rheumatology, Cantacuzino Hospital, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania; Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Vanessa Smith
- Department of Rheumatology, Ghent University Hospital, Department of Internal Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Rucsandra Dobrota
- Department of Internal Medicine and Rheumatology, Cantacuzino Hospital, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania; Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Ana Maria Gheorghiu
- Department of Internal Medicine and Rheumatology, Cantacuzino Hospital, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Maurizio Cutolo
- Research Laboratory and Academic Unit of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Oliver Distler
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Bellando-Randone S, Bruni C, Lepri G, Fiori G, Bartoli F, Conforti ML, Moggi-Pignone A, Guiducci S, Giuggioli D, Colaci M, Spinella A, Ferri C, Matucci-Cerinic M. The safety of iloprost in systemic sclerosis in a real-life experience. Clin Rheumatol 2018; 37:1249-1255. [DOI: 10.1007/s10067-018-4043-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2017] [Revised: 02/01/2018] [Accepted: 02/14/2018] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
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Rotondo C, Nivuori M, Chialà A, Praino E, Matucci Cerinic M, Cutolo M, Lapadula G, Iannone F. Evidence for increase in finger blood flow, evaluated by laser Doppler flowmetry, following iloprost infusion in patients with systemic sclerosis: a week-long observational longitudinal study. Scand J Rheumatol 2018; 47:311-318. [PMID: 29409385 DOI: 10.1080/03009742.2017.1397187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Iloprost plays an important role in the treatment of Raynaud's phenomenon (RP), but has transient vasodilatory effects owing to its very short half-time. We aimed to evaluate short- and medium-term haemodynamic effects of iloprost by measuring dorsal finger microvessel blood flow using laser Doppler flowmetry (LDF), in patients with RP associated with systemic sclerosis (SSc). METHOD In 24 consecutive SSc patients with RP (disease duration 10.5 ± 1.3 years), LDF with heating probes was used to measure blood flow in four fingers by occlusive and heating tests, at baseline, after 3 consecutive days of iloprost infusion, and at 24 h and 7 days after last iloprost infusion. Nailfold videocapillaroscopy (NVC) patterns of microvascular damage were investigated. Sixteen healthy controls were studied to compare baseline flows. RESULTS Compared to controls, SSc patients showed significantly impaired axon reflex vasoregulation and nitric oxide responses at baseline (p = 0.001 and p = 0.03, respectively). After iloprost, a prompt but transient significant improvement in endothelial-dependent vasodilation (occlusive test) was seen only in SSc patients with an 'active' NVC pattern (p ≤ 0.05). The iloprost effects vanished within 7 days after the last infusion. No significant differences were found, in the whole study, between patients with and without digital ulcers. CONCLUSIONS Microcirculatory blood flow increases following 3 days of iloprost infusion but fades shortly after treatment. Although iloprost is effective in reducing the severity of RP in SSc, the most suitable regimen and timing to obtain longer lasting vasodilatory benefits remain to be established.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Rotondo
- a Rheumatology Unit, Department of Emergency and Transplantation , University of Bari , Bari , Italy
| | - M Nivuori
- a Rheumatology Unit, Department of Emergency and Transplantation , University of Bari , Bari , Italy
| | - A Chialà
- a Rheumatology Unit, Department of Emergency and Transplantation , University of Bari , Bari , Italy
| | - E Praino
- a Rheumatology Unit, Department of Emergency and Transplantation , University of Bari , Bari , Italy.,b Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine , University of Florence , Florence , Italy.,c Department of Geriatric Medicine, Division of Rheumatology AOUC , University of Florence , Florence , Italy
| | - M Matucci Cerinic
- b Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine , University of Florence , Florence , Italy.,c Department of Geriatric Medicine, Division of Rheumatology AOUC , University of Florence , Florence , Italy
| | - M Cutolo
- d Research Laboratory and Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Emergency and Transplantation , University of Genoa, IRCCS AOU San Martino , Genoa , Italy
| | - G Lapadula
- a Rheumatology Unit, Department of Emergency and Transplantation , University of Bari , Bari , Italy
| | - F Iannone
- a Rheumatology Unit, Department of Emergency and Transplantation , University of Bari , Bari , Italy
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Cutolo M, Smith V, Furst DE, Khanna D, Herrick AL. Points to consider-Raynaud's phenomenon in systemic sclerosis. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2017; 56:v45-v48. [PMID: 28992170 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/kex199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2015] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
RP is an exaggerated vasospastic response to cold or emotion. Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials with either parallel group or cross-over trials should be mainly considered. Cross-over design, which is good for early phase trials of immediate or very short-term outcomes, is important in a condition as heterogeneous as RP: a wash-out period between treatment arms should always be included to minimize the possibility of a period (carry-over) effect. Duration of RP trials is usually constrained by the need to complete these over a single season, usually winter when the weather is colder. For cross-over trials, each treatment arm tends to be 4 weeks or less. Frequency and duration of attacks, and the Raynaud's Condition Score are widely used outcome measures. There is increasing interest in physiological laboratory endpoints, for example laser Doppler imaging at least for early phase trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maurizio Cutolo
- Research Laboratories and Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, IRCCS, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Vanessa Smith
- Department of Rheumatology, Ghent University Hospital.,Faculty of Internal Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Daniel E Furst
- Department of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Dinesh Khanna
- Department of Medicine University of Michigan, University of Michigan Scleroderma Program, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Ariane L Herrick
- The University of Manchester, Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester and NIHR Manchester Musculoskeletal Biomedical Research Unit, Central Manchester NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, UK
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Sequential nailfold videocapillaroscopy examinations have responsiveness to detect organ progression in systemic sclerosis. Semin Arthritis Rheum 2017; 47:86-94. [DOI: 10.1016/j.semarthrit.2017.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2016] [Revised: 01/06/2017] [Accepted: 02/04/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Cutolo M, Herrick AL, Distler O, Becker MO, Beltran E, Carpentier P, Ferri C, Inanç M, Vlachoyiannopoulos P, Chadha-Boreham H, Cottreel E, Pfister T, Rosenberg D, Torres JV, Smith V. Nailfold Videocapillaroscopic Features and Other Clinical Risk Factors for Digital Ulcers in Systemic Sclerosis: A Multicenter, Prospective Cohort Study. Arthritis Rheumatol 2017; 68:2527-39. [PMID: 27111549 PMCID: PMC5129545 DOI: 10.1002/art.39718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2015] [Accepted: 04/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Objective To identify nailfold videocapillaroscopic features and other clinical risk factors for new digital ulcers (DUs) during a 6‐month period in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc). Methods In this multicenter, prospective, observational cohort study, the videoCAPillaroscopy (CAP) study, we evaluated 623 patients with SSc from 59 centers (14 countries). Patients were stratified into 2 groups: a DU history group and a no DU history group. At enrollment, patients underwent detailed nailfold videocapillaroscopic evaluation and assessment of demographic characteristics, DU status, and clinical and SSc characteristics. Risk factors for developing new DUs were assessed using univariable and multivariable logistic regression (MLR) analyses. Results Of the 468 patients in the DU history group (mean ± SD age 54.0 ± 13.7 years), 79.5% were female, 59.8% had limited cutaneous SSc, and 22% developed a new DU during follow‐up. The strongest risk factors for new DUs identified by MLR in the DU history group included the mean number of capillaries per millimeter in the middle finger of the dominant hand, the number of DUs (categorized as 0, 1, 2, or ≥3), and the presence of critical digital ischemia. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) of the area under the curve (AUC) of the final MLR model was 0.738 (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 0.681–0.795). Internal validation through bootstrap generated a ROC AUC of 0.633 (95% CI 0.510–0.756). Conclusion This international prospective study, which included detailed nailfold videocapillaroscopic evaluation and extensive clinical characterization of patients with SSc, identified the mean number of capillaries per millimeter in the middle finger of the dominant hand, the number of DUs at enrollment, and the presence of critical digital ischemia at enrollment as risk factors for the development of new DUs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maurizio Cutolo
- University of Genoa and IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria San Martino, Genoa, Italy.
| | - Ariane L Herrick
- University of Manchester, Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust, NIHR Manchester Musculoskeletal Biomedical Research Unit, Central Manchester NHS Foundation Trust and Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | | | - Mike O Becker
- University Hospital, Zurich, Switzerland, and Charité University Hospital, Berlin, Germany
| | - Emma Beltran
- Hospital Universitario y Politécnico La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Vanessa Smith
- Ghent University Hospital and Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.
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Corallo C, Cutolo M, Kahaleh B, Pecetti G, Montella A, Chirico C, Soldano S, Nuti R, Giordano N. Bosentan and macitentan prevent the endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndoMT) in systemic sclerosis: in vitro study. Arthritis Res Ther 2016; 18:228. [PMID: 27716320 PMCID: PMC5053154 DOI: 10.1186/s13075-016-1122-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2016] [Accepted: 09/16/2016] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is characterized by early vascular abnormalities and subsequent fibroblast activation to myofibroblasts, leading to fibrosis. Recently, endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndoMT), a complex biological process in which endothelial cells lose their specific markers and acquire a mesenchymal or myofibroblastic phenotype, has been reported in SSc. In the present study, we evaluated the ability of endothelin-1 (ET-1) dual receptor antagonists bosentan (BOS) and macitentan (MAC) to antagonize EndoMT in vitro. METHODS Ten women with limited SSc were enrolled. They underwent double skin biopsy (affected and nonaffected skin). Fibroblasts and microvascular endothelial cells (MVECs) were isolated from biopsies. We performed mono- or coculture of MVECs (isolated from nonaffected skin) with fibroblasts (isolated from affected skin and stimulated with ET-1 and transforming growth factor beta [TGF-β]). In cocultures, the MVEC layer was left undisturbed or was preincubated with BOS or MAC. After 48 h of coculture, MVECs were analyzed for their tube formation ability and for messenger RNA and protein expression of different vascular (CD31, vascular endothelial growth factor-A [VEGF-A], VEGF-A165b) and profibrotic (alpha-smooth muscle actin [α-SMA], collagen type I [Col I], TGF-β) molecules. RESULTS After 48 h, MVECs showed a reduced tube formation ability when cocultured with SSc fibroblasts. CD31 and VEGF-A resulted in downregulation, while VEGF-A165b, the antiangiogenic isoform, resulted in upregulation. At the same time, mesenchymal markers α-SMA, Col I, and TGF-β resulted in overexpression in MVECs. Tube formation ability was restored when MVECs were preincubated with BOS or MAC, also reducing the expression of mesenchymal markers and restoring CD31 expression and the imbalance between VEGF-A and VEGF-A165b. CONCLUSIONS With this innovative EndoMT in vitro model realized by coculturing nonaffected MVECs with affected SSc fibroblasts, we show that the presence of a myofibroblast phenotype in the fibroblast layer, coupled with an ET-1-TGF-β synergic effect, is responsible for EndoMT. BOS and MAC seem able to antagonize this phenomenon in vitro, confirming previous evidence of endothelium-derived fibrosis in SSc and possible pharmacological interference.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio Corallo
- Scleroderma Unit, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Neurosciences, University of Siena, 53100, Siena, Italy.
| | - Maurizio Cutolo
- Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Institute for Research and Health Care (IRCCS), University of Genoa, San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Bashar Kahaleh
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, College of Medicine, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH, USA
| | - Gianluca Pecetti
- Medical and Scientific Direction, Actelion Pharmaceuticals Italy, Imola, Italy
| | - Antonio Montella
- Scleroderma Unit, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Neurosciences, University of Siena, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Chiara Chirico
- Scleroderma Unit, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Neurosciences, University of Siena, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Stefano Soldano
- Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Institute for Research and Health Care (IRCCS), University of Genoa, San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Ranuccio Nuti
- Scleroderma Unit, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Neurosciences, University of Siena, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Nicola Giordano
- Scleroderma Unit, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Neurosciences, University of Siena, 53100, Siena, Italy
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Trombetta AC, Pizzorni C, Ruaro B, Paolino S, Sulli A, Smith V, Cutolo M. Effects of Longterm Treatment with Bosentan and Iloprost on Nailfold Absolute Capillary Number, Fingertip Blood Perfusion, and Clinical Status in Systemic Sclerosis. J Rheumatol 2016; 43:2033-2041. [PMID: 27744392 DOI: 10.3899/jrheum.160592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/25/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To quantify in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc) the absolute nailfold capillary number/mm (the absolute number of capillaries, observable in the first row, in 1 mm per field) and fingertip blood perfusion (FBP) during longterm therapy with the endothelin receptor antagonist bosentan (BOSE) and the synthetic analog of prostacyclin PGI2 iloprost (ILO) by multiple diagnostic tools. Observed values were correlated with clinical outcomes. METHODS Thirty patients with SSc already receiving intravenous ILO (80 μg/day) for 5 continuous days (every 3 mos) were recruited in the clinic. Fifteen patients continued such treatment (ILO group), while in 15 patients BOSE (125 mg twice/day) was added (ILO + BOSE group) because of the onset of pulmonary arterial hypertension or digital ulcers (DU). The followup period was 4 years (T0-T4). Every year the following were evaluated: absolute nailfold capillary number/mm by nailfold videocapillaroscopy, FBP by laser Doppler flowmetry, DU incidence, DLCO, systolic pulmonary arterial pressure (sPAP), renal arterial resistive index, and other biomarkers. From T2 to T4, laser speckled contrast analysis was added. Nonparametric tests were used for statistical analysis. RESULTS Limited to the ILO + BOSE group, absolute capillary number/mm and FBP showed a progressive increase independently from other variables. In addition, during followup there was a significant reduction (80%) in the incidence of new DU, whereas DLCO and sPAP did not worsen. CONCLUSION The study shows in patients with SSc with up to 4 years of combined therapy a progressive significant recovery in structure and function of microvasculature linked to improved clinical outcomes, independent of disease severity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amelia Chiara Trombetta
- From the Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy; Department of Rheumatology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.,A.C. Trombetta, MD, PhD, Trainee in Clinical and Experimental Immunology, Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa; C. Pizzorni, MD, PhD, Assistant Professor of Rheumatology, Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa; B. Ruaro, MD, Trainee in Rheumatology, Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa; S. Paolino, MD, Assistant Professor of Rheumatology, Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa; A. Sulli, MD, Associate Professor of Rheumatology, Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa; V. Smith, MD, PhD, Associate Professor of Rheumatology, Head of Clinics in Rheumatology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent University; M. Cutolo, MD, Full Professor of Rheumatology, Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa
| | - Carmen Pizzorni
- From the Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy; Department of Rheumatology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.,A.C. Trombetta, MD, PhD, Trainee in Clinical and Experimental Immunology, Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa; C. Pizzorni, MD, PhD, Assistant Professor of Rheumatology, Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa; B. Ruaro, MD, Trainee in Rheumatology, Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa; S. Paolino, MD, Assistant Professor of Rheumatology, Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa; A. Sulli, MD, Associate Professor of Rheumatology, Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa; V. Smith, MD, PhD, Associate Professor of Rheumatology, Head of Clinics in Rheumatology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent University; M. Cutolo, MD, Full Professor of Rheumatology, Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa
| | - Barbara Ruaro
- From the Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy; Department of Rheumatology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.,A.C. Trombetta, MD, PhD, Trainee in Clinical and Experimental Immunology, Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa; C. Pizzorni, MD, PhD, Assistant Professor of Rheumatology, Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa; B. Ruaro, MD, Trainee in Rheumatology, Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa; S. Paolino, MD, Assistant Professor of Rheumatology, Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa; A. Sulli, MD, Associate Professor of Rheumatology, Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa; V. Smith, MD, PhD, Associate Professor of Rheumatology, Head of Clinics in Rheumatology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent University; M. Cutolo, MD, Full Professor of Rheumatology, Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa
| | - Sabrina Paolino
- From the Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy; Department of Rheumatology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.,A.C. Trombetta, MD, PhD, Trainee in Clinical and Experimental Immunology, Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa; C. Pizzorni, MD, PhD, Assistant Professor of Rheumatology, Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa; B. Ruaro, MD, Trainee in Rheumatology, Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa; S. Paolino, MD, Assistant Professor of Rheumatology, Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa; A. Sulli, MD, Associate Professor of Rheumatology, Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa; V. Smith, MD, PhD, Associate Professor of Rheumatology, Head of Clinics in Rheumatology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent University; M. Cutolo, MD, Full Professor of Rheumatology, Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa
| | - Alberto Sulli
- From the Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy; Department of Rheumatology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.,A.C. Trombetta, MD, PhD, Trainee in Clinical and Experimental Immunology, Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa; C. Pizzorni, MD, PhD, Assistant Professor of Rheumatology, Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa; B. Ruaro, MD, Trainee in Rheumatology, Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa; S. Paolino, MD, Assistant Professor of Rheumatology, Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa; A. Sulli, MD, Associate Professor of Rheumatology, Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa; V. Smith, MD, PhD, Associate Professor of Rheumatology, Head of Clinics in Rheumatology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent University; M. Cutolo, MD, Full Professor of Rheumatology, Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa
| | - Vanessa Smith
- From the Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy; Department of Rheumatology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.,A.C. Trombetta, MD, PhD, Trainee in Clinical and Experimental Immunology, Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa; C. Pizzorni, MD, PhD, Assistant Professor of Rheumatology, Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa; B. Ruaro, MD, Trainee in Rheumatology, Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa; S. Paolino, MD, Assistant Professor of Rheumatology, Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa; A. Sulli, MD, Associate Professor of Rheumatology, Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa; V. Smith, MD, PhD, Associate Professor of Rheumatology, Head of Clinics in Rheumatology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent University; M. Cutolo, MD, Full Professor of Rheumatology, Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa
| | - Maurizio Cutolo
- From the Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy; Department of Rheumatology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium. .,A.C. Trombetta, MD, PhD, Trainee in Clinical and Experimental Immunology, Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa; C. Pizzorni, MD, PhD, Assistant Professor of Rheumatology, Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa; B. Ruaro, MD, Trainee in Rheumatology, Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa; S. Paolino, MD, Assistant Professor of Rheumatology, Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa; A. Sulli, MD, Associate Professor of Rheumatology, Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa; V. Smith, MD, PhD, Associate Professor of Rheumatology, Head of Clinics in Rheumatology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent University; M. Cutolo, MD, Full Professor of Rheumatology, Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa.
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Patschan S, Tampe D, Müller C, Seitz C, Herink C, Müller GA, Zeisberg E, Zeisberg M, Henze E, Patschan D. Early Endothelial Progenitor Cells (eEPCs) in systemic sclerosis (SSc) - dynamics of cellular regeneration and mesenchymal transdifferentiation. BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2016; 17:339. [PMID: 27519706 PMCID: PMC4983068 DOI: 10.1186/s12891-016-1197-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2016] [Accepted: 07/30/2016] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc) are endagered by tissue fibrosis and by microvasculopathy, with the latter caused by endothelial cell expansion/proliferation. SSc-associated fibrosis potentially results from mesenchymal transdifferentiation of endothelial cells. Early Endothelial Progenitor Cells (eEPCs) act proangiogenic under diverse conditions. Aim of the study was to analyze eEPC regeneration and mesenchymal transdifferentiation in patients with limited and diffuse SSs (lSSc and dSSc). METHODS Patients with both, lSSc and dSSc were included into the study. The following parameters were evaluated: eEPC numbers and regeneration, concentrations of vasomodulatory mediators, mesenchymal properties of blood-derived eEPC. Serum samples of healthy subjects and SS patients were used for stimulation of cultured human eEPC, subsequently followed by analysis of mesenchymal cell characteristics and mobility. RESULTS Twenty-nine patients were included into the study. Regenerative activity of blood-derived eEPCs did not differ between Controls and patients. Circulating eEPC were significantly lower in all patients with SSc, and in limited and diffuse SSc (lSSc/dSSc). Serum concentrations of promesenchymal TGF-b was elevated in all patients with SSc. Cultured mononuclear cells from SS patients displayed higher abundances of CD31 and of CD31 and aSMA combined. Finally, serum from SSc patients inhibited migration of cultured eEPCs and the cells showed lower sensitivity towards the endothelin antagonist Bosentan. CONCLUSIONS The eEPC system, which represents an essential element of the endogenous vascular repair machinery is affected in SSc. The increased appearance of mesenchymal properties in eEPC may indicate that alterations of the cells potentially contribute to the accumulation of connective tissue and to vascular malfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- S. Patschan
- Clinic of Nephrology and Rheumatology, University Hospital of Göttingen, Robert-Koch-Straße 40, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - D. Tampe
- Clinic of Nephrology and Rheumatology, University Hospital of Göttingen, Robert-Koch-Straße 40, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - C. Müller
- Clinic of Nephrology and Rheumatology, University Hospital of Göttingen, Robert-Koch-Straße 40, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - C. Seitz
- Clinic of Dermatology, University Hospital of Göttingen, Robert-Koch-Straße 40, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - C. Herink
- Clinic of Dermatology, University Hospital of Göttingen, Robert-Koch-Straße 40, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - G. A. Müller
- Clinic of Nephrology and Rheumatology, University Hospital of Göttingen, Robert-Koch-Straße 40, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - E. Zeisberg
- Clinic of Nephrology and Rheumatology, University Hospital of Göttingen, Robert-Koch-Straße 40, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - M. Zeisberg
- Clinic of Nephrology and Rheumatology, University Hospital of Göttingen, Robert-Koch-Straße 40, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - E. Henze
- Clinic of Nephrology and Rheumatology, University Hospital of Göttingen, Robert-Koch-Straße 40, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - D. Patschan
- Clinic of Nephrology and Rheumatology, University Hospital of Göttingen, Robert-Koch-Straße 40, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
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Cutolo M, Damjanov N, Ruaro B, Zekovic A, Smith V. Imaging of connective tissue diseases: Beyond visceral organ imaging? Best Pract Res Clin Rheumatol 2016; 30:670-687. [DOI: 10.1016/j.berh.2016.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2016] [Revised: 10/10/2016] [Accepted: 10/11/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Affiliation(s)
- W Hermann
- Abteilung Rheumatologie und Klinische Immunologie, Kerckhoff-Klinik, Benekestr. 2-8, 61231, Bad Nauheim, Deutschland.
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Morardet L, Avouac J, Sammour M, Baron M, Kahan A, Feydy A, Allanore Y. Late Nailfold Videocapillaroscopy Pattern Associated With Hand Calcinosis and Acro-Osteolysis in Systemic Sclerosis. Arthritis Care Res (Hoboken) 2016. [PMID: 26223810 DOI: 10.1002/acr.22672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine whether calcinosis and acro-osteolysis are related to specific nailfold videocapillaroscopy (NVC) features in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc; scleroderma). METHODS NVC and bilateral hand radiographs were systematically performed in 155 consecutively recruited patients with SSc during a 24-month period. Radiologic assessment of calcinosis and acro-osteolysis was performed blinded for the results on NVC features. RESULTS Patients with calcinosis (n = 29) or acro-osteolysis (n = 25) on radiographs were more likely to have the late pattern on NVC, defined by severe loss of capillaries and neoangiogenesis (P = 0.003 and P < 0.001, respectively). A reduced number of capillaries was significantly found in patients with calcinosis (mean ± SD 3.55 ± 1.76 versus 5.53 ± 2.32 capillaries per finger; P < 0.001) and acro-osteolysis (mean ± SD 2.88 ± 1.30 versus 5.60 ± 2.26 capillaries per finger; P < 0.001). In addition, neoangiogenesis was more frequently observed in patients with severe acro-osteolysis (P = 0.021). Multivariate logistic regression analysis confirmed the independent association between the late NVC pattern and calcinosis (odds ratio [OR] 3.04, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 1.20-7.68) or acro-osteolysis (OR 4.57, 95% CI 1.66-12.55), together with history of and/or active digital ulcers. CONCLUSION Acro-osteolysis and calcinosis are independently associated with the late NVC pattern and particularly with severe capillary loss. These results strengthen the link between these radiographic lesions and digital destructive vasculopathy. Moreover, severe acro-osteolysis was more likely to occur with neoangiogenesis, which may suggest an attempt to compensate bone resorption. Further studies are now needed to better understand the physiopathology of calcinosis and acro-osteolysis and determine whether any agent may modify the course of these lesions by influencing vessel damages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laëtitia Morardet
- Paris Descartes University, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Cochin Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Jérôme Avouac
- Paris Descartes University, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Cochin Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Maya Sammour
- Paris Descartes University, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Cochin Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Murray Baron
- Jewish General Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - André Kahan
- Paris Descartes University, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Cochin Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Antoine Feydy
- Paris Descartes University, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Cochin Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Yannick Allanore
- Paris Descartes University, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Cochin Hospital, Paris, France
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Cestelli V, Manfredi A, Sebastiani M, Praino E, Cannarile F, Giuggioli D, Ferri C. Effect of treatment with iloprost with or without bosentan on nailfold videocapillaroscopic alterations in patients with systemic sclerosis. Mod Rheumatol 2016; 27:110-114. [PMID: 27310203 DOI: 10.1080/14397595.2016.1192761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Vascular involvement plays a decisive role in systemic sclerosis (SSc) pathogenesis; it is responsible for some important clinical manifestations of the disease such as Raynaud's phenomenon and digital ulcers (DU). Bosentan, a dual receptor endothelin antagonist, and iloprost, often in combination therapy, seems to be able to interfere with the scleroderma microangiopathy. OBJECTIVES Aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of bosentan and iloprost on scleroderma microangiopathy, analyzed by means of capillaroscopic skin ulcer risk index (CSURI), in SSc patients treated for the prevention of DU. METHODS Nailfold videocapillaroscopy (NVC) was performed in 95 SSc patients, treated with iloprost alone (group 1) or combination therapy with iloprost and bosentan (group 2), at baseline and after one year. In all patients CSURI was calculated according to the formula "diameter × number of megacapillaries/(total number of capillaries)2": in addition, total number of capillaries, giant capillaries, micro-hemorrhages, disorganization of the vascular array, and ramified capillaries were evaluated by means of a semiquantitative score. RESULTS After 12 months, we observed a reduction of the number of giant capillaries in both groups, while an increase of ramified capillaries was recorded only in group 2. CSURI improved slightly in group 2 without statistical significance; on the contrary, in group 1 a significant worsening was recorded (p ≤ 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Our study confirms the effectiveness of bosentan, in combination with iloprost, in SSc microangiopathy observed to NVC. Moreover, the observed findings further support the role of CSURI in the evaluation and monitoring of SSc microangiopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Andreina Manfredi
- a Rheumatology Unit , University of Modena and Reggio Emilia , Italy
| | - Marco Sebastiani
- a Rheumatology Unit , University of Modena and Reggio Emilia , Italy
| | | | | | - Dilia Giuggioli
- a Rheumatology Unit , University of Modena and Reggio Emilia , Italy
| | - Clodoveo Ferri
- a Rheumatology Unit , University of Modena and Reggio Emilia , Italy
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Discovery of Dual ETA/ETB Receptor Antagonists from Traditional Chinese Herbs through in Silico and in Vitro Screening. Int J Mol Sci 2016; 17:389. [PMID: 26999111 PMCID: PMC4813245 DOI: 10.3390/ijms17030389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2016] [Revised: 02/25/2016] [Accepted: 03/04/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Endothelin-1 receptors (ETAR and ETBR) act as a pivotal regulator in the biological effects of ET-1 and represent a potential drug target for the treatment of multiple cardiovascular diseases. The purpose of the study is to discover dual ETA/ETB receptor antagonists from traditional Chinese herbs. Ligand- and structure-based virtual screening was performed to screen an in-house database of traditional Chinese herbs, followed by a series of in vitro bioassay evaluation. Aristolochic acid A (AAA) was first confirmed to be a dual ETA/ETB receptor antagonist based intracellular calcium influx assay and impedance-based assay. Dose-response curves showed that AAA can block both ETAR and ETBR with IC50 of 7.91 and 7.40 μM, respectively. Target specificity and cytotoxicity bioassay proved that AAA is a selective dual ETA/ETB receptor antagonist and has no significant cytotoxicity on HEK293/ETAR and HEK293/ETBR cells within 24 h. It is a feasible and effective approach to discover bioactive compounds from traditional Chinese herbs using in silico screening combined with in vitro bioassay evaluation. The structural characteristic of AAA for its activity was especially interpreted, which could provide valuable reference for the further structural modification of AAA.
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Ruaro B, Sulli A, Pizzorni C, Paolino S, Smith V, Cutolo M. Correlations between skin blood perfusion values and nailfold capillaroscopy scores in systemic sclerosis patients. Microvasc Res 2016; 105:119-24. [PMID: 26907637 DOI: 10.1016/j.mvr.2016.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2016] [Revised: 02/17/2016] [Accepted: 02/17/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To correlate blood perfusion (BP) values assessed by laser speckle contrast analysis (LASCA) in selected skin areas of hands and face with nailfold capillary damage scores in systemic sclerosis (SSc) patients. METHODS Seventy SSc patients (mean SSc duration 6 ± 5 years) and 70 volunteer healthy subjects were enrolled after informed consent. LASCA was performed at different areas of the face (forehead, tip of nose, zygomas and perioral region) and at dorsal and volar regions of hands. Microvascular damage was assessed and scored by nailfold videocapillaroscopy (NVC) and the microangiopathy evolution score (MES) was calculated. RESULTS SSc patients showed a significantly lower BP than healthy subjects at fingertips, periungual areas and palm of hands (p<0.0001), but not at the level of face and dorsum of hands. A gradual decrease of BP at fingertips, periungual and palm areas, was found in SSc patients with progressive severity of NVC patterns of microangiopathy ("early", "active", or "late") (p<0.01). A negative correlation was observed between MES and BP values, as well as between loss of capillaries and BP, at the same areas (p<0.001 and p<0.01, respectively). Patients with diffuse cutaneous SSc (dcSSc) showed lower BP than those with limited cutaneous SSc (p<0.04). CONCLUSIONS LASCA detects a significant reduction of BP only in those areas usually affected by Raynaud's phenomenon (fingertips, periungual and palm areas), especially in dcSSc patients, and BP values significantly correlate with the nailfold capillaroscopy scores of microangiopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Ruaro
- Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genova, IRCCS San Martino-IST, Genoa, Italy
| | - A Sulli
- Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genova, IRCCS San Martino-IST, Genoa, Italy
| | - C Pizzorni
- Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genova, IRCCS San Martino-IST, Genoa, Italy
| | - S Paolino
- Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genova, IRCCS San Martino-IST, Genoa, Italy
| | - V Smith
- Department of Rheumatology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent University, Belgium
| | - M Cutolo
- Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genova, IRCCS San Martino-IST, Genoa, Italy.
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Combination therapy with Bosentan and Sildenafil improves Raynaud's phenomenon and fosters the recovery of microvascular involvement in systemic sclerosis. Clin Rheumatol 2015; 35:127-32. [PMID: 26631100 DOI: 10.1007/s10067-015-3119-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2015] [Revised: 10/26/2015] [Accepted: 11/10/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate in systemic sclerosis (SSc) retrospectively the effect of Bosentan and Sildenafil and their combination on Raynaud's phenomenon (RP), function, and capillaroscopic patterns. One hundred and twenty-three SSc patients (mean age ± sd, 57.69 ± 14.07 years) were retrospectively evaluated and divided into two groups according to American College of Rheumatology (ACR)/European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) classification score: group 1 score < 10, group 2 score > 10. Each group was divided into three subgroups according to treatment: Bosentan, Sildenafil, and Bosentan + Sildenafil. Nailfold videocapillaroscopy (NVC), Scleroderma Health Assessment Questionnaire (SHAQ) and Raynaud Condition Score (RCS) were performed at baseline and after 3 and 6 months. In Bosentan (29 patients: 12, group 1; 17, group 2), NVC changed significantly in both groups, after 3 and 6 months (p = 0.00439, group 1; p = 0.00035, group 2). In group 1, the "active" and the "late" patterns reduced, and the "aspecific" increased. In group 2, there was a reduction of late patterns, a worsening of SHAQ (p < 0.005) and an improvement of RCS (p = 0.00014). In Sildenafil (63 patients: 35, group 1; 28, group 2), after 3 months, NVC patterns changed significantly in both groups(p = 0.042 group 1, p = 0.00089 group 2). In group 1, the late and early patterns increased, and the aspecific decreased. In group 2, a significant change of NVC pattern was observed also after 6 months (p = 0.00089): the late pattern increased while the active one reduced. After 6 months, SHAQ was significantly reduced in group 1 (p = 0.00027) and in group 2 (p = 0.0043). RCS improved in both groups (p = 0.0042, group 1; p = 0.0016, group 2). Combination therapy (Bosentan + Sildenafil) (31 patients: 14, group 1; 17, group 2) induced significant changes on NVC only in group 1 after 3 (p = 0.00256) and 6 months (p = 0.000349) with a reduction of the late and active patterns and an increase of the early pattern. In both groups, after 6 months, SHAQ (p < 0.05, group 1; p = 0.00049, group 2) and RCS significantly reduced (group 1, p = 0.00024; group 2, p = 0.0021). Patients treated with Bosentan + Sildenafil show a significant improvement of RCS and NVC. This combination therapy may exert a vascular activity achieving an amelioration of the structure of microvasculature in SSc.
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Functional autoantibodies in systemic sclerosis. Semin Immunopathol 2015; 37:529-42. [DOI: 10.1007/s00281-015-0513-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2015] [Accepted: 07/06/2015] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
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Abstract
Early identification of secondary Raynaud phenomenon is essential to treat the underlying disease—most frequently systemic sclerosis (SSc). Integrated therapeutic approaches and monitoring systems that offer improved modalities of care feature in the new best practice recommendations for the treatment of digital vasculopathy in SSc.
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Ruaro B, Smith V, Sulli A, Decuman S, Pizzorni C, Cutolo M. Methods for the morphological and functional evaluation of microvascular damage in systemic sclerosis. Korean J Intern Med 2015; 30:1-5. [PMID: 25589827 PMCID: PMC4293547 DOI: 10.3904/kjim.2015.30.1.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2014] [Accepted: 11/10/2014] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis is a connective tissue disease characterized by alterations in microvascular structure and function. In these patients, numerous studies have demonstrated a relationship between capillary morphology and peripheral blood perfusion. Nailfold videocapillaroscopy reveals the peripheral microvascular morphology and thus allows classification and scoring of capillary abnormalities with respect to different microangiopathy patterns (early, active, and late). Laser Doppler flowmetry and laser speckle contrast analysis can be used to estimate cutaneous blood flow through microvessels and to assess and quantify blood perfusion at peripheral sites. These two methods are also used to identify changes in digital blood perfusion after the infusion of vasodilators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Ruaro
- Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genova, Genoa, Italy
| | - Vanessa Smith
- Department of Rheumatology, Ghent University Hospital, Gent, Belgium
| | - Alberto Sulli
- Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genova, Genoa, Italy
| | - Saskia Decuman
- Department of Rheumatology, Ghent University Hospital, Gent, Belgium
| | - Carmen Pizzorni
- Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genova, Genoa, Italy
| | - Maurizio Cutolo
- Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genova, Genoa, Italy
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Abstract
Raynaud syndrome (RS) was first described by the French physician Maurice Raynaud in 1862 with the characteristic tricolor change featuring pallor (ischemic phase), cyanosis (deoxygenation phase), and erythema (reperfusion phase) induced by cold or stress. Although the underlying pathophysiological mechanism is unclear, alterations in activity of the peripheral adrenoceptor have been implicated, specifically an enhanced smooth muscle contraction due to overexpression or hyperactivity of postsynaptic alpha 2 receptors. There are 2 ways that RS can appear clinically; isolated, formerly referred as Raynaud disease or now primary RS and in association with other conditions, usually connective tissue disorders (eg, Sjögren syndrome, systemic lupus erythematosus, scleroderma, and rheumatoid arthritis), frequently called Raynaud phenomenon or secondary RS. The estimated prevalence in the general population is 3%-5%, with a higher prevalence in women than in men. The diagnosis is mainly clinical, based on patient descriptions of skin changes. Upper extremity pulse-volume recording is used to rule out proximal arterial obstruction. The differentiation between a vasospastic vs and obstructive mechanism is made using digital pressures and photoplethysmography, where an obstructive mechanism has decreased pressures and blunted waveforms. Cold challenge testing, such as ice water immersion with temperature recovery, is highly sensitive but lack specificity. Serologic screening (antinuclear antibody and rheumatoid factor) is advocated to rule out associated connective tissue disorders. Most patients with RS can be managed conservatively, with avoidance of cold exposure or hand warming. For those in whom conservative management is inadequate, a number of pharmacologic and surgical therapies have been used. Owing to lack of complete understanding of the underlying pathophysiology, targeted therapy has not been possible; rather, therapy has been focused on the use of general vasodilation strategies. In this review, the diagnosis, natural history, and current medical and invasive therapy are summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gregory J Landry
- Knight Cardiovascular Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR.
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