The Importance of Spinopelvic Parameters in Recurrent Lumbar Disk Herniation

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective clinical study.

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to investigate preoperative spinopelvic mismatch as a risk factor for recurrent lumbar disk herniation (RLDH) in patients undergoing lumbar disk herniation (LDH) surgery.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Spinopelvic parameters have been associated with lumbar degenerative diseases, particularly LDH. However, the relationship between these parameters and RLDH has yet to be studied.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data of 1453 patients aged ≥18 who underwent single-level, unilateral fenestration microdiscectomy for the first time in our hospital between 2013 and 2019 were reviewed. The study group comprised 88 patients who underwent surgery for RLDH. The control group comprised 101 randomly selected patients who underwent surgery for LDH but not RLDH. Age, sex, body mass index, occupational activity level, operative level, Roussouly classification type, and time to recurrence were recorded. Moreover, pelvic incidence, lumbar lordosis (LL), interverteberal disk height (IDH), segmental lordosis, sacral slope (SS), pelvic tilt (PT), and sacral table angle (ST) were measured for each patient. Pelvic mismatch was calculated.

RESULTS

Mean age was 46.5±11.4 y (range, 20-70). Both groups were similar concerning age, sex, body mass index, occupational activity level, and level of surgery. The mean time to recurrence was 167.3±36.6 d (range, 62-363). Measurements in the RLDH group were as follows: IDH=7.6±1.5 mm, pelvic incidence =54.4°±10.1°, LL=47.3°±13°, segmental lordosis =9.3°±5°, SS=35.1°±9.9°, and PT=19.3°±7.3°. Mean IDH was significantly lower in the RLDH group ( P =0.02). Less LL and lower PT at L3-4 level and increased SS at L5-S1 level were considered risk factors for RLDH.

CONCLUSION

This study showed that preoperative low IDH is at higher risk for RLDH in patients undergoing LDH surgery. LL, PT, and SS may be risk factors for specific levels.

FRAIL Scale: an independent predictor of in-hospital mortality among older adults

OBJECTIVE

To screen for geriatric syndromes in older in-hospital patients and investigate their relationship with mortality.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Demographic data, comorbidities, and medical history of the patients were recorded. Anthropometric measurements were obtained at 72 hours after hospital admission. The Mini Nutritional Assessment-Short Form, strength, assistance with walking, rising from a chair, climbing stairs, and falls (SARC-F) sarcopenia screening questionnaire, Katz Activities of Daily Living scale, Lawton-Brody instrumental activities of daily living scale, the fatigue, resistance, ambulation, illness, and loss of weight (FRAIL) scale and the Eating Assessment Test-10 (EAT-10) screening test were used to assess geriatric syndromes. All patients were evaluated for delirium, pain, falls, polypharmacy, sleep disorders, incontinence, and pressure injury by the same researcher.

RESULTS

A total of 85 patients were included in the study. The mean age was 75±7 years (range: 66-97). During hospital follow-up, 15.3% (n=13) of the patients died and 84.7% (n=72) were discharged. The median length of stay was 19 days (range: 3-126 days). In the multivariate analysis, frailty (hazard ratio: 2.67, 95% CI: 1.41-5.06, p=0.003) was found to be associated with in-hospital mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

Frailty is an independent risk factor for in-hospital mortality in older adults.

Late Results of Early End-to-End Repair in Sciatic Nerve Injuries

OBJECTIVE

Mechanisms of sciatic nerve injury include gunshot injury, sharps injury, injection injury, contusion, femoral fracture injury, and iatrogenic injury due to fracture surgery. Regardless of the type of injury, patients undergoing sciatic nerve repair have poor motor and sensory outcomes. In this study, we compared the late outcomes of a group of patients in whom the author performed an early end-to-end anastomosis for sciatic nerve sharps injury and another group of patients with a similar injury who were not operated on but left to natural history.

METHODS

The sciatic nerve, comprising two primary divisions with distinct muscle innervations, was subject to separate examinations. Group 1 (n=10, study group) underwent tibial division anastomosis, while Group 2 (n=12, control group) received no surgical intervention involving the tibial division. Similarly, Group 3 (n=11, study group) underwent peroneal division anastomosis, while Group 4 (n=14, control group) encompassed subgroups that did not undergo peroneal division surgery.

RESULTS

In Group 1, the rate of gain in plantar flexion muscle strength was significantly higher (p < 0.05) compared to Group 2. Furthermore, the sensory examination gain level ratio within the tibial domain was significantly greater (p < 0.05) in Group 1 than in Group 2. Additionally, Group 1 exhibited a significantly higher rate (p < 0.05) of detection of regeneration and reinnervation findings in electromyography (EMG) compared to Group 2.

CONCLUSION

When evaluating the long-term outcomes following early end-to-end anastomoses of the sciatic nerve, it becomes evident that while significant improvements are observed when compared to individuals without anastomosis, the positive impact of surgical interventions on motor and sensory gains in daily life remains limited. Nevertheless, we contend that early surgical intervention holds potential advantages in terms of patient management.

The effect of frailty in older community-dwelling outpatients with atrial fibrillation: a new score HAS-BLED-F (rail)

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to determine the effect of frailty on thromboembolic events (TEE) and bleeding in older patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (AF).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients aged ≥65 years who were diagnosed as having non-valvular AF in a geriatric outpatient clinic between June 2015 and February 2021 were included in the study. Frailty, the risk of thrombosis secondary to AF, and the risk of bleeding as a complication of AF treatment were evaluated using the FRAIL scale, and CHA2DS2-VASc and HAS-BLED scores, respectively.

RESULTS

Out of 83 patients included in the study, 72.3% were frail and 21.7% were pre-frail. TEE was observed in 14.5% (n=12) and bleeding was observed in 25.3% (n=21) of the patients. A total of 21 (25.3%) patients had a history of bleeding. There was no difference between the normal, pre-frail, and frail groups in terms of TEE and bleeding history (p=0.112 and p=0.571, respectively). In multivariate analysis, mortality decreased with the use of apixaban; frailty and malnutrition were found to increase mortality (p=0.014, p=0.023, and p=0.020, respectively). HAS-BLED-F score was obtained as a result of the sum of the patients' HAS-BLED and FRAIL scores to predict the bleeding risk. A HAS-BLED-F score of ≥6 predicted the risk of bleeding with 90.5% sensitivity and 40.3% specificity.

CONCLUSIONS

Frailty is not associated with a statistically significant increase in the risk of thromboembolic events or bleeding in patients with non-valvular AF. HAS-BLED-F score can be used to better predict the risk of bleeding in frail patients.

AB1529-HPR CROSS-CULTURAL ADAPTATION, RELIABILITY AND CONVERGENT VALIDITY OF THE TURKISH VERSION OF THE PRIMARY SJOGREN’S SYNDROME QUALITY OF LIFE QUESTIONNAIRE

Background

To completely comprehend the burden of an illness and the success of its treatment, it is essential to analyze the patients’ perspective on health-related quality of life. Because of this, the Primary Sjögren’s Syndrome-Quality of Life questionnaire (PSS-QoL) was developed, which evaluates the disease’s physical and psychosocial effects in PSS patients.

Objectives

In the literature, there is no Turkish questionnaire evaluating quality of life in patients with PSS. Therefore, the aim of this study was to translate and evaluate cross-culturally adaptation the PSS-QoL into the Turkish language and investigate its convergent validity and reliability in Turkish-speaking population with PSS.

Methods

Patients completed PSS-QoL questionnaire, the EULAR Sjögren’s Syndrome Patient Reported Index (ESSPRI) and Euro-QoL 5D (EQ-5D). To test the convergent validity of PSS-QoL, correlation between PSS-QoL and EQ-5D and ESSPRI were assessed with Pearson correlation test. In order to investigate the internal consistency and test-retest reliability, Cronbach’s alpha and Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) values interpreted, respectively.

Results

Seventy-nine patients with PSS (53.30 + 11.98 years, 74F/5M) were enrolled in the study. Good and moderate correlations were found between the PSS-QoL and ESSPRI (r: 0.818, p<0.001) and EQ-5D-pain/ discomfort (r:0.589, p<0.001). Correlations of subscales of PSS-QoL with subscales of ESSPRI and EQ-5D ranged from fair to strong (Table 1). Cronbach’s alpha and ICC values of the PSS-QoL total score were found to be as 0.955 and 0.914, respectively, indicating excellent reliability.

Table 1.

Correlations of PSS-QoL and EQ-5D, ESSPRI

PSS-QoLPhysicalDiscomfortDrynessPsychosocialtotal scorePSS-QoLPSS-QoLPSS-QoLPSS-QoLEQ-5D-mobility0.543**0.514**0.678**0.761**0.891**EQ-5D-usual activities0.466**0.342*0.371**0.233*0.460**EQ-5D-pain/discomfort0.589**0.651**0.710**0.442**0.394**EQ-5D-anxiety/depression0.574**0.570**0.557**0.436**0.439**EQ-5D-HS-0.625**-0.540**-0.495**-0.437**-0.547**ESSPRI-dryness0.589**0.706**0.448**0.722**0.348*ESSPRI-pain0.673**0.694**0.824**0.421**0.494**ESSPRI-fatigue0.780**0.668**0.669**0.497**0.690**

EQ-5D, Euro-QoL-5 dimension; ESSPRI, EULAR Sjögren’s Syndrome Patient Reported Index; HS, health state; PSS-QoL, Quality of Life in Primary Sjögren’s Syndrome. *p<0.05, **p<0.001.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that Turkish version of PSS-QoL is reliable and valid tool to assess quality of life in PSS patients. Therefore, PSS-QoL can be used to assess quality of life in Turkish-speaking PSS patients.

References

[1]Lackner A, Stradner MH, Hermann J et al. Assessing health-related quality of life in primary Sjögren’s syndrome—the PSS-QoL. In Seminars in arthritis and rheumatism 2018; Vol. 48, No. 1,105-110.

[2]Beaton DE, Bombardier C, Guillemin F et al. Guidelines for the process of cross-cultural adaptation of self-report measures. Spine 2000; 25(24):3186-3191.

[3]Group, The EuroQol. EuroQol-a new facility for the measurement of health-related quality of life. Health policy 1990; 16.3: 199-208.

[4]Seror R, Ravaud P, Mariette X et al. EULAR Sjögren’s Syndrome Patient Reported Index (ESSPRI): development of a consensus patient index for primary Sjögren’s syndrome. Annals of the rheumatic diseases 2011; 70(6), 968-972.

Disclosure of Interests

None declared

POS1365 THE FMF&AID SURVEY - A PATIENT ORGANIZATION DRIVEN SURVEY FOR AUTOINFLAMMATORY DISEASES

Background

Autoinflammatory diseases (also referred to as hereditary periodic fever syndromes) are caused by defects in the innate immune system. Many autoinflammatory syndromes arise from inherited genetic mutations which begin in childhood and persist throughout adult life. These diseases are often present in several members and generations within a family. Newer research also reflects that, cases can often present at any age through-out childhood, teenage years, and even into older adulthood. These cases appear to be acquired, perhaps due to the interplay of genetic, immune, and environmental factors (somaticism). It is not uncommon that a patient is diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis or another autoimmune issue, as many physicians are not aware of monogenic inborn errors, nor how to conduct a thorough work up due to a lack of medical knowledge.

Objectives

Unfortunately, the knowledge base that many doctors have with regards to autoinflammatory genetic diseases is minimal to non-existent, when compared to the well-established expertise of autoimmune disease management. Concerns about the increasing patient accounts detailing lack of medical diagnosis, treatment, and pain management, lead to the important decision to collect further data from the autoinflammatory patient community. The aim of the survey responses collected, and post data aggregation will help identity patient trends and use this information to educate and increase awareness amongst the medical community as to the unmet diagnostic and treatment requirements for the autoinflammatory population.

Methods

A questionnaire comprised of thirty questions was developed by members of the patient organization FMF & AID Global Association (Executive Director, Malena Vetterli with Research Director, H. Ellen Cohen) under the guidance of Dr. med. Juergen Rech focused on collecting basic information (e.g. age, country, onset and duration of symptoms, pain and fatigue). The survey was published at the end of 2020 on social media (Facebook) and on the FMF&AID website (www.fmfandaid.org). Participation was voluntary and the patients agreed that the anonymised response information of the survey may be evaluated and published. This international survey was approved by the ETHICS Committee FAU in Erlangen-Nuremberg, Germany.

Results

Worldwide, over a thousand patients or parents/caregivers of patients (younger than 18 years) in fifty-two countries took part in this survey and answered the questionnaire. Eighty percent (80%) of the participants had already been diagnosed with an autoinflammatory disease. However, despite classic periodic symptom presentation, twenty percent (20%) of the participants were still without a concise diagnosis. FMF - forty-three percent (43%) was cited as the most common diagnosis and M. Behçet thirty percent (30%) as the second, with a variety of others (e.g. PFAPA, CAPS, HIDS, TRAPS, DADA, Yao syndrome, and uSAID). The minimum age at diagnosis ranged from 1 to 70+ years old with an average age of 33 years when properly diagnosed. Three-hundred and nine (309) patients reported that their pain had not been taken seriously and adequately treated in the past. Pain and fatigue, as measured by the standard visual analogue scale (VAS 0-10), was high in the past 30 and 7 days, respectively. VAS pain 30 days was 4.8 (SD +/-2.7) or 7 days with 4.2 (SD +/- 3), as well as fatigue VAS 30 days 5.7 (SD +/- 2.8) or fatigue VAS 7 days with 5.5 (SD +/- 3).

Conclusion

One-fifth of patients with classic symptoms of autoinflammatory diseases remain undiagnosed and therefore not specifically treated. Although, the rest of the participants eighty percent (80%) have a diagnosis of an autoinflammatory disease, therapy does not appear to be sufficient to manage their wide-ranging and debilitating symptoms, in particular pain and fatigue. Patients continue to carry the burden of receiving mental diagnosis vs actual medical diagnosis and are still forced to seek additional medical support, often incurring travel or relocation costs to obtain proper care.

Disclosure of Interests

Jürgen Rech Speakers bureau: Abbvie, Biogen, BMS, Chugai, GSK, Lilly, MSD; Novartis, Roche, Sanofi, Sobi, UCB, Consultant of: Biogen, BMS, Chugai, GSK, Lilly, MSD, Novartis, Roche, Sanofi, Sobi, UCB, Grant/research support from: Novartis, Sobi, Koray Tascilar: None declared, Abdurrahman Tufan: None declared, Marco Gattorno: None declared, J. B. Kuemmerle-Deschner: None declared, Seza Ozen: None declared, Tobias Krickau: None declared, Ellen Cohen: None declared, Leonardo Oliveira Mendonca: None declared, Apostolos Kontzias: None declared, Malena Vetterli: None declared

AB1317 SERUM INTERLEUKIN 37 LEVELS IN FAMILIAL MEDITERRANEAN FEVER PATIENTS AND ASSOCIATION WITH CLINICAL FEATURES

Background

Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF) is the most common form of autoinflammatory diseases that is characterized by febrile episodes of serositis, arthritis and skin rash (1). Mutations in MEFV gene causes dysfunction of pyrin inflammasome, ultimately resulting in over-activation of Caspase-1 which is responsible for catalytic activation of interleukin (IL)-1 beta and gasdermin-D (2). IL-37 is also one of the IL-1 cytokines activated by caspase-1 acting as natural inhibitor of inflammation (3).

Objectives

IL-37 has pathogenetic roles for certain inflammatory diseases. We aimed to investigate serum IL-37 levels and its relationship with clinical and laboratory features of disease.

Methods

58 adult patients diagnosed with FMF according to Tel Hashomer criteria were included. Thirty subjects were served as healthy control subjects. Demographic, genetic, clinical and laboratory features and treatment responses of patients were recorded. Twenty-nine patients were colchicine responsive whereas 29 were colchicine refractory. Serum IL-37 levels were measured by ELISA from blood samples obtained at attack free periods.

Results

Peritonitis was the most common attack type (81%) followed by fever (80%) and arthritis (67%). There was no difference between FMF patients and healthy subjects for their serum IL-37 levels. A negative correlation was found between IL-37 values ​​and erythrocyte sedimentation rate in FMF patients (r: -0,31; p:0.015). IL -37 level was found to be significantly lower in patients who suffer from arthritis (median [IQR] 119 [396] ng/L vs 53 [164] ng/L, p= 0.03), myalgia (147 [364] ng/L vs 53 [84] ng/L, p= 0.05) or skin rash (102 [360] ng/L vs 54 [130] ng/L, p= 0.05) compared to those who did not have these attacks.

Conclusion

Although there was no difference in serum IL-37 levels between FMF patients and healthy subjects, IL-37 seem to be associated with musculoskeletal and skin attacks of FMF. Further research is needed to determine whether IL-37 have relationships with other features of FMF such as spondyloarthritis and febril myalgia.

References

[1]El-Shanti H, Majeed HA, El-Khateeb M. Familial mediterranean fever in Arabs.Lancet. 2006;367(9515):1016–24.

[2]Kanneganti A, Malireddi RKS, Saavedra PHV, Vande Walle L, Van Gorp H, Kambara H, Tillman H, Vogel P, Luo HR, Xavier RJ, Chi H, Lamkanfi M. GSDMD is critical for autoinflammatory pathology in a mouse model of Familial Mediterranean Fever. J Exp Med. 2018 Jun 4;215(6):1519-1529. doi: 10.1084/jem.20172060

[3]Nieman DC, Ferrara F, Pecorelli A, Woodby B, Hoyle AT, Simonson A, Valacchi G. Postexercise Inflammasome Activation and IL-1β Production Mitigated by Flavonoid Supplementation in Cyclists. Int J Sport Nutr Exerc Metab. 2020 Sep 15:1-9. doi: 10.1123/ijsnem.2020-0084.

Acknowledgements

No financial support is obtained from any company

Disclosure of Interests

None declared

AB0420 UNINTENTIONAL MONOTHERAPY IN RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS PATIENTS RECEIVING TOFACITINIB AND DRUG SURVIVAL RATE OF TOFACITINIB

Background

Combination of MTX with a bDMARDs or tsDMARDs is considered the most effective treatment regimen currently available for patients with RA who have failed to respond to conventional DMARDs. However, approximately 30% of patients receive bDMARDs as monotherapy in daily clinical practice. Studies in the literature do not assess unintentional monotherapy in general. However, it is thought that some patients may switch to monotherapy unintentionally. In other words, some patients who are prescribed combination therapy switch to monotherapy without informing their physicians.

Objectives

To determine the rate of unintentional monotherapy in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients receiving tofacitinib and to evaluate tofacitinib survival rate.

Methods

This national, multicentre, retrospective study included patients’ data from the TURKBIO Registry. Data on demographics, clinical characteristics, disease duration and activity, comorbidities, and treatment were analysed.

Results

Data of 231 RA patients (84.8% female, median age, 56 years) were included; 153 were initially prescribed combination therapy and continued to their therapies; 31 were initially prescribed combination therapy but switched to monotherapy of their own will (unintentional monotherapy); 21 were initially prescribed monotherapy and switched to combination therapy; 26 were initially prescribed monotherapy and continued to their therapies. The combination and unintentional monotherapy groups did not differ regarding remission rate assessed by DAS28-CRP (60.5% and 70%, respectively, p=0.328). The rate of comorbidities at the time of data retrieval was significantly higher in the unintentional monotherapy group compared with the combination group (83.3% vs. 60.3%, p=0.031). Presence of comorbidities was a significant factor affecting switching to monotherapy (p=0.039, Odds ratio: 3.29, 95% CI: 1.06-10.18). Drug survival rates of the unintentional monotherapy and combination groups did not differ. The median drug survival duration of tofacitinib was 27+ months with a 1-year and 4-year drug survival rates of 89.6% and 60.2%, respectively, in the unintentional monotherapy group.

Conclusion

Although 13.4% of the study population started monotherapy unintentionally, drug survival rates of the unintentional monotherapy and combination groups were not different. Comorbidity was an important factor affecting transition from combination therapy to monotherapy.

This study was sponsored by Pfizer.

Figure 1.

Disclosure of Interests

Nevsun Inanc: None declared, Kerem Abacar: None declared, mehmet akif ozturk: None declared, Abdurrahman Tufan: None declared, Hazan Karadeniz: None declared, İsmail Sari: None declared, gercek can: None declared, Yesim Erez: None declared, yavuz Pehlivan: None declared, Ediz Dalkiliç: None declared, Tuğba Ocak: None declared, Ayse Cefle: None declared, Ayten Yazici Grant/research support from: Ayten Yazici has received project grant from Roche Pharmaceuticals, Turkey., Abdurrahman Senel: None declared, Servet Akar: None declared, Elif Durak Ediboglu: None declared, Süleyman Serdar Koca: None declared, Rabia Piskin Sagir: None declared, Sema Yilmaz: None declared, Semral Gulcemal: None declared, Özgül Soysal Gündüz: None declared, Canberk Sami Başibüyük Employee of: employee of Pfizer Pharmaceuticals, Istanbul, Turkey., Serdar Alkan Employee of: employee and shareholder of Pfizer Inc., Istanbul, Turkey., Teoman Yusuf Cesur Employee of: employee of Pfizer Pharmaceuticals, Istanbul, Turkey., Fatos Onen: None declared

AB0774 Paradoxical reactions, especially psoriasis in rheumatology patients receiving biologic therapy from the Treasure database: a 5-year follow-up study

Background

Biologic agents have altered our ability to treat chronic inflammatory diseases effectively. Although paradoxical reactions (PRs) were initially described with TNF-α inhibitors, they have been reported with newly developed biologic agents or classes too (1). Due to the potential consequences of PRs, it is critical to identify and treat these drug class side effects as soon as possible.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to characterize PRs, especially psoriasis, in a large cohort of patients treated with biologic agents and to investigate their clinical implications.

Methods

TReasure database, which was launched in 2017, is a web-based prospective observational cohort comprised of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and spondyloarthritis (SpA) from 17 centers located throughout Turkey. Characteristics of patients with PRs and clinicians’ treatment approaches and outcomes were evaluated using descriptive statistics.

Results

3147 RA and 6071 SpA patients were evaluated. 139 (1.5%) patients (40 (28.8%) with RA and 99 (71.29%) with SpA) developed a PRs (Table 1). The rate of paradoxical psoriasis was 90.6% and 9.7% of the patients had a family history of psoriasis. Females constituted 64% of the patients. The mean age was 46±12 years and the disease duration were 146±92 months. Mean time interval between the PRs and diagnosis was 99,6±86 months, whereas median 12 (1-132) months between the PRs and the biological agent. Adalimumab (30.9 %), etanercept (20.1 %), and infliximab (18.7 %) were the three most frequently used agents during the PRs. However, 8.6% of the patients developed PRs with non-TNF agents. Only seven patients (5.1%) who had PRs discontinued the drug, while 28 patients (20.6%) continued to receive the agent that caused the PRs. Majority of patients were switched to other TNF-α inhibitors (48.5%) and non-TNF agents (25.7%). When we limited our analysis to paradoxical psoriasis patients, we observed complete remission in 43.5% of patients and progression in only six (4.7 %) of patients. (Figure 1).

Table 1.

Characteristics of RA and SpA patients who developed paradoxical reactions

NPatients (N, %)Paradoxical reactions (PRs)139  Psoriasis126 (90.6%)  Uveitis6 (4.3%)  Sarcoidosis2 (1.4%)  IBD1 (0.7%) Other*4 (4.3%)Primary disease139  RA40 (28.8%)  SpA99 (71.29%)Time interval between PRs-diagnosis of RA/SpA (months)12499,6±86† 72 (3-420) ††Time interval between PRs-biological onset (months)12622±25† 12 (1-132) ††BMI, kg/m212328±5† 27,8 (17,3-49,7) ††Smokers (Current/ex)13161 (46.6%) / 10 (8.5%)Biological agents used during PRs139  TNF-α inhibitor used**127 (91.3%)  Secukinumab2 (1.4%)  Abatacept6 (4.3%)  Rituximab4 (2.9%)Biological agents used after PRs101  Etanercept31 (22.8%)  Adalimumab15 (11%)  Secukinumab12 (8.8%)  Other***43 (57.5%)

PRs: Paradoxical reactions IBD: Inflammatory bowel disease. *Drug-induced lupus:3 Vasculitis:1. ** Adalimumab: 43 (30.9%), Etanercept: 28 (20.1%), Infliximab: 26 (18.7%), Certolizumab: 20 (14.4%), Golimumab: 10 (7.2%). *** Certolizumab: 9 (6.6%), Tofacitinib: 9 (6.6%), Infliximab: 7 (5.1%), Tocilizumab: 5 (3.7%), Golimumab: 4 (2.9%), Ustekinumab: 4 (2.9%), Rituximab:3 (2.2%), Abatacept: 1 (0.7%), Anakinra: 1 (0.7%). † mean ± standard deviation. †† median (min-max)

Conclusion

Clinicians should be aware that PRs may develop with biologic agents other than TNF-α inhibitors. Additionally, it is important to keep in mind that the development time of PRs could be variable. The mechanism(s) behind PRs remain unknown, and there is no currently available diagnostic or therapeutic protocol (2). The decision whether to continue or discontinue biologic agents should be individualized. We found that the majority of patients can be managed without discontinuing biologic agents. Finally, we believe that the experience of our large cohort can help physicians in clinical practice where sufficient protocol is lacking.

References

[1]Lluís Puig. Curr Probl Dermatol. 2018; 53:49-63.

[2]Michael J Murphy. J Am Acad Dermatol. S0190-9622(20)33154-6.

Disclosure of Interests

None declared

AB1272 FACTORS AFFECTING PATIENT-ACCEPTABLE SYMPTOM STATES IN FAMILIAL MEDITERRANEAN FEVER

Background

Familial Mediterranean fever (FMF) is an autoinflammatory disease characterized by recurrent attacks of fever, serositis, and musculoskeletal symptoms (1, 2). Arthritis is the most common musculoskeletal symptom of attacks and also included in diagnostic criteria of FMF (3). If it is specifically queried, myalgia may be detected in up to 20-25% of the patients with FMF.(4,5).

Objectives

In our study, we aim to assess the localization of attack-related myalgia and associated parameters in patients with FMF.

Methods

A total of 349 consecutive patients followed by FMF in our clinic were enrolled in the study and asked for attack-induced myalgia and if present, localization of muscle groups on the mannequin body parts diagram.

Attack frequency, duration, and disease activity were evaluated with the AutoInflammatory Diseases Activity Index (AIDAI) scoring system (6). Patients were also asked for work/study day loss during attacks and patient acceptable symptom state (PASS) status (7).

Results

126 patients showed attack myalgia (36%); attack duration, frequency, severity were significantly higher in patients with attack-myalgia (p<0,005). Most common muscle groups were calves, lower back, and latissimus dorsi muscles in order. Myalgia was most commonly accompanied by arthritis (p<0,002). Patients with myalgia have a higher frequency of colchicine resistance and work/study day loss due to attacks.

Conclusion

Our results conclude that myalgia is an important domain of attacks and causes absenteeism and uncontrolled disease activity. Treatment of myalgia attacks may provide controlled disease activity, and prevent absenteeism from work/school.

References

[1]El-Shanti H, Majeed HA, El-Khateeb M. Familial mediterranean fever in Arabs.Lancet. 2006;367(9515):1016–24.

[2]Majeed HA, Al-Qudah AK, Qubain H, Shahin HM. The clinical patterns of myalgia in children with familial Mediterranean fever. Semin Arthritis Rheum. 2000;30(2):138–43.

[3]Gattorno M, Hofer M, Federici S, Vanoni F et al. Eurofever Registry and the Paediatric Rheumatology International Trials Organisation (PRINTO). Classification criteria for autoinflammatory recurrent fevers. Ann Rheum Dis. 2019 Aug;78(8):1025-1032. doi: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2019-215048.

[4]Zemer D. Muscle pains in familial Mediterranean fever. Harefuah 1984; 106: 232-233.

[5]Majeed HA. Differential diagnosis of fever of unknown origin in children. Curr Opin Rheumatol 2000; 12: 439-444.

[6]Piram M, Frenkel J, Gattorno M et al. EUROFEVER and EUROTRAPS networks. A preliminary score for the assessment of disease activity in hereditary recurrent fevers: results from the AIDAI (Auto-Inflammatory Diseases Activity Index) Consensus Conference. Ann Rheum Dis. 2011 Feb;70(2):309-14. doi: 10.1136/ard.2010.132613.

[7]Salaffi F, Carotti M, Gutierrez M, Di Carlo M, De Angelis R. (2015) Patient Acceptable Symptom State in Self-Report Questionnaires and Composite Clinical Disease Index for Assessing Rheumatoid Arthritis Activity: Identification of Cut-Off Points for Routine Care. Biomed Res Int. 2015:930756. doi: 10.1155/2015/930756.

Table 1.

Comparison of clinical and laboratory parameters between patients with /without myalgia attacks

Patients with myalgia attackPatients without myalgia attackp valueAge (years)36,33 ±10, 6837,9±11, 48>0,05Sex (female/male)78/43138/87>0,05Follow-up time (years)16,117,6>0,05Dominant attack(number)Peritonitis4255>0,05Arthritis11390,012Pleuritis1310>0,05Only fever47>0,05AIDAI score (mean, 0-175)127,4080,68<0,05VAS score for pain (median score, during attack. 0-10)85<0,05Colchicine resistance (number ofpatients)69250,003Colchicine-resistant29840,002Colchicine-sensitivePASS status (number)Need additional treatment4160,016Satisfied from treatment34740,010Work/study day loss (number)4860,003

Acknowledgements

All study population signed informed consent for both participation and publication. Local Ethical Committee of the university approved the study.

Disclosure of Interests

None declared

AB1088 COVID-19 VACCINATION OF SPONDYLOARTHRITIS PATIENTS RECEIVING BIOLOGICAL THERAPY: REAL-LIFE DATA

Background

Considering the concerns regarding COVID-19 vaccine safety among patients with rheumatic diseases due to a lack of data, an urgent need for studies evaluating safety profiles of vaccines emerged.

Objectives

Vaccination against the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) started in March 2021 in the group using biological therapy in our country. In this study, post-vaccine real-life data of patients with spondyloarthritis (SpA) followed up with biological therapy were analyzed.

Methods

Adult patients diagnosed with SpA who were followed up under biological therapy and vaccinated by CoronaVac inactive SARS-CoV-2 orBNT162b2 messenger RNA (mRNA) COVID-19 (Pfizer-BioNTech) vaccine were included in our observational, multicenter, prospective study.

Results

A total of 287 patients (58.2% male; mean age: 47) were included in the study. 202 (%70,4) of patients were being followed up with the diagnosis of AS, 40 (%13,9) of them with PsA, 32 (%11,1) of them with nr-axSpA, 11 (%3,8) of them with enteropathic arthritis, and 2 (%0,7) of them with uSpA. The most common comorbidities were found to be HT (n:65; 22.6%) and DM (n:38; 13.2%). While 221 (77%) of the patients were receiving biological therapy alone, 27 (9.4%) patients were using methotrexate, 25 (8.7%) patients were using sulfasalazine, and 12 (4.2%) patients were using leflunomide. The median duration of biological therapy was 40 weeks (19-75 IQR). The most commonly used treatment was infliximab (26.8%), adalimumab (23.3%) was the second (Table 1).

It was determined that 207 (72.1%) of the patients preferred inactivated virus vaccine, while 80 (27.9%) preferred mRNA vaccine. When the time between the biological treatment and the day of vaccination is examined, detected median time between biological treatment and the first dose of vaccination is 11.5 days (5-19 IQR), between the first dose of vaccination and biological treatment is 14 days (7-21 IQR), between treatment and the second dose of vaccine is 14 days (5-23.5 IQR), and between the second dose of vaccine and the next biological treatment is 12.5 days (7-15 IQR). While 25 (8.7%) of the patients had COVID-19 infection before vaccination, 7 (2.4%) patients were found to have COVID-19 after vaccination (p<0.001). While two of the patients who had COVID-19 infection in the pre-vaccination period required hospitalization, none of the patients who had COVID-19 in the post-vaccination period required hospitalization.

The rate of patients who developed side effects after the first dose of the vaccine was 20.6%. The side effects seen, respectively, were detected as pain-redness at the injection site (16%), fatigue (11.8%), headache (8.4%), muscle-joint pain (7.3%) and fever (5.6%). The rate of patients reporting side effects after the second dose of the vaccine was 17.1%. The incidence of side effects after mRNA vaccine was found to be statistically significant compared to inactivated virus vaccine in terms of both doses (p=0.011, p<0.001). Major side effects such as myocarditis, anaphylaxis-angioedema, myocardial infarction, and thrombosis were not observed in any of the patients included in the study. There was no evidence of disease activation in the median follow-up of 209 days (145-280 IQR) after vaccination.

Conclusion

During the follow-up of the patients during the study, no major vaccine-related side effects, post-vaccine disease activation and the need for treatment change were not detected. In order to more accurately evaluate the efficacy of the vaccination program in the patient population using biologic agents, larger-scale studies including unvaccinated individuals are needed.

References

[1]Sattui SE, Liew JW, Kennedy K, et al. Early experience of COVID-19 vaccination in adults with systemic rheumatic diseases: results from the COVID-19 global rheumatology alliance vaccine survey. RMD Open. 2021;7(3):e001814.

[2]Shenoy P, Ahmed S, Paul A, et al. Inactivated vaccines may not provide adequate protection in immunosuppressed patients with rheumatic diseases. Ann Rheum Dis. 2021. doi:10.1136/annrheumdi s-2021-221496

Disclosure of Interests

None declared

AB1496 THE EFFECTS OF TELEREHABILITATION BASED EXERCISE PROGRAM IN PATIENTS WITH SYSTEMIC SCLEROSIS

Background

Systemic Sclerosis (SSc) is a rare, systemic autoimmune disease characterized by skin fibrosis and vasculopathy [1]. Patients may experience a decrease in their daily activities, physical activity levels and quality of life, while psychological problems such as anxiety and depression may increase. In order to eliminate or reduce these symptoms and the consequences of symptoms, exercise programs for the patient, as well as medical treatment, are an important part of the treatment [2, 3]. Telerehabilitation increases overall health awareness, treatment adherence, and satisfaction by enabling patients to take an active role in decision-making and disease management [4]. Telerehabilitation replaces the traditional face-to-face treatment approach, allowing patients to access treatment remotely [5, 6]. In addition Telerehabilitation enabled patients with chronic diseases to access exercise during the COVID 19 pandemic [7].

Objectives

The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of telerehabilitation-based exercise program in patients with SSc.

Methods

Forty-six SSc patients were included in the study. The patients were randomly divided into two groups as telerehabilitation and control group. Youtube videos consisting of clinical pilates-based exercises were uploaded to the system so that only the patients in the telerehabilitation group could see it. In the telerehabilitation group; An exercise program was applied for eight weeks, twice a day. Video interviews were conducted with the patients once a week. To the control group; the same exercises were given to the telerehabilitation group. An eight-week exercise program was given in the form of a home program. Brochure introducing the exercises was given and exercises were taught. Pain, dyspnea, fatigue, physical activity, anxiety-depression, sleep and quality of life levels were evaluated in all patients at the beginning of the study and at the end of the eight weeks.

Results

Demographic and clinical features of the patient groups were similar (p>0.05). After the exercise program, pain, fatigue, anxiety-depression levels decreased in the telerehabilitation group compared to the control group, while sleep quality and quality of life increased (p<0.05). The results of the study induced that both exercise programs improve pain, fatigue, anxiety-depression, physical activity, sleep quality and quality of life in SSc patients. The telerehabilitation-based treatment program are more and more effective than the home program.

Conclusion

Our study shows that this innovative treatment program should be applied especially in SSc patients and it will be beneficial.

References

[1]Hinchcliff, M. and J. Varga, Systemic sclerosis/scleroderma: a treatable multisystem disease. American family physician, 2008. 78(8): p. 961-968.

[2]Liem, S., et al., Physical activity in patients with systemic sclerosis. Rheumatology international, 2018. 38(3): p. 443-453.

[3]de Oliveira, N.C., et al., Aerobic and resistance exercise in systemic sclerosis: state of the art. Musculoskeletal Care, 2017. 15(4): p. 316-323.

[4]Mair, F. and P. Whitten, Systematic review of studies of patient satisfaction with telemedicine. Bmj, 2000. 320(7248): p. 1517-1520.

[5]Winters, J.M., Telerehabilitation research: emerging opportunities. Annual Review of Biomedical Engineering, 2002. 4(1): p. 287-320.

[6]Carey, J.R., et al., Comparison of finger tracking versus simple movement training via telerehabilitation to alter hand function and cortical reorganization after stroke. Neurorehabilitation and neural repair, 2007. 21(3): p. 216-232.

[7]Boldrini, P., et al., Impact of COVID-19 outbreak on rehabilitation services and Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine physicians’ activities in Italy. An official document of the Italian PRM Society (SIMFER). European journal of physical and rehabilitation medicine, 2020. 56(3): p. 316-318.

Disclosure of Interests

None declared

AB1301 DETERMINING THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SERUM INTERLEUKIN 33 LEVELS AND CLINICAL FEATURES OF THE DISEASE IN PATIENTS WITH FAMILIAL MEDITERRANEAN FEVER

Background

Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF) is an autoinflammatory disease characterized by recurrent fever, serositis, arthritis and erysipelas-like erythema caused by mutations over activating caspase-1. As Interleukin (IL)-1 beta, IL-33 is a nuclear cytokine from IL-1 family which is activated by caspase-1. IL-33 is known to take part in pathogenesis of several rheumatic diseases.

Objectives

The aim of this research is determining the relationship between serum IL-33 levels and clinical features of the disease in patients with FMF disease.

Methods

The research involved 54 FMF patients and 29 healthy volunteers. Serum IL-33 levels were evaluated in both patients and healthy individuals, and its relationship between clinical and laboratory features of FMF.

Results

28 out of 54 patients (%51.8) had favorable response to colchicine while 26 patients (%48.2) had colchicine resistant disease. FMF patients had lower IL-33 levels compared to healthy control group (p= 0.06). There were no difference between colchicine responsive and resistant patients (p=0.12) and no association was found between clinical features and serum IL-33 levels. Additionally, IL-33 did not correlated with C-reactive protein and disease activity assessed by autoinflammatory disease activity index.

Conclusion

No association was found between serum IL-33 levels and FMF disease features and laboratory findings. This may be due to the small size of our patient group, the involvement of IL-33 in tissue homeostasis as well as inflammation, and the use of higher doses of colchicine in the resistant disease group than in the remission group. Additional research is needed to determine IL-33’s role in FMF pathogenesis and its relationship with clinical and laboratory features.

References

[1]Ozdogan, H. and S. Ugurlu, Familial Mediterranean Fever. Presse Med, 2019. 48(1 Pt 2): p. e61-e76.

[2]Cayrol, C. and J.P. Girard, Interleukin-33 (IL-33): A nuclear cytokine from the IL-1 family. Immunol Rev, 2018. 281(1): p. 154-168.

[3]Duan, L., et al., The role of IL-33 in rheumatic diseases. Clin Dev Immunol, 2013. 2013: p. 924363.

Acknowledgements

None of the authors obtained any financial support.

Disclosure of Interests

None declared

AB1302 EVALUATING THE CLINICAL UTILITY OF PATIENT ACCEPTABLE SYMPTOM STATE IN PATIENTS WITH FAMILIAL MEDITERRANEAN FEVER

Background

Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF) is an autoinflammatory disease characterized by recurrent attacks of fever, serositis, arthritis and erysipelas-like erythema. Patient acceptable symptom state (PASS) is a disease evaluation method to assess disease activity with a simple question especially in rheumatic diseases.

Objectives

We aimed to investigate clinical utility of PASS in FMF patients.

Methods

The research involved 54 FMF patients. Patient acceptable symptom state was applied to all patients in the study. The answers to PASS were compared with the patients clinical and laboratory features.

Results

28 out of 54 patients (51.8%) were colchicine responsive whereas, 26 patients (48.2%) had colchicine resistant disease. The number of patients who answered yes to PASS (I’m happy with my current disease condition) was 32 (59%), while answered no (I need further treatment options) was 22 (41%). Considering the disease severity assessed with International severity scoring FMF (ISSF) of those who answered yes, 22 (68%) patients had mild disease, 10 patients had moderate (32%) disease, and there was no patient with severe disease in this group. Among those who answered no, 3 (14%) had mild disease, 14 (63%) had moderate disease, and 5 (23%) had severe disease (p <0.001). When the CRP levels of the patients were compared, the median CRP value of those who answered yes was found to be 4.45 mg/L, and the median value of CRP for those who answered no was 11.25 mg/L (p= 0.04).

Sensitivity and specificity of PASS for detecting patients in remission was 78% and 61% respectively. Moreover, PASS had a positive and negative predictive value of %68 and %72 respectively, for determining patients in remission. If cut off level of CRP was chosen as 6.5 mg/L for answering “yes” to PASS, sensitivity of test has been found to be 62.5% while the specificity is 59.1%. On the other hand, if cut off level of CRP is selected as 9.35 mg/L; sensitivity and specificity of the test was found as 75% and 72.7% respectively (p=0.045).

Conclusion

Patient acceptable symptom state is found beneficial in evulation these patients simply and swiftly especially in terms of distinguishing severe FMF disease. In FMF, laboratory remission is as important as clinical remission, therefore, PASS by alone, is not sufficient for making treatment decisions and should be supported by inflammatory markers.

References

[1]Ozdogan, H. and S. Ugurlu, Familial Mediterranean Fever. Presse Med, 2019. 48(1 Pt 2): p. e61-e76.

[2]Lubrano, E., et al., Assessment of the Patient Acceptable Symptom State (PASS) in psoriatic arthritis: association with disease activity and quality of life indices. RMD Open, 2020. 6(1).

[3]Salaffi, F., et al., Patient Acceptable Symptom State in Self-Report Questionnaires and Composite Clinical Disease Index for Assessing Rheumatoid Arthritis Activity: Identification of Cut-Off Points for Routine Care. Biomed Res Int, 2015. 2015: p. 930756.

[4]Maksymowych, W.P., et al., Evaluation and validation of the patient acceptable symptom state (PASS) in patients with ankylosing spondylitis. Arthritis Rheum, 2007. 57(1): p. 133-9.

Acknowledgements

None of authors obtained any financial support

Disclosure of Interests

None declared

POS1328 DO IL-1 ANTAGONISTS DEFINITELY PROTECT FROM THE DEVELOPMENT OF NEW DAMAGE: A SINGLE-CENTER STUDY

Background

Ongoing inflammatory episodes of familial Mediterranean fever (FMF) disease can cause damage in nearly all organ systems. Colchicine and interleukin1β blocking agents are successfully used to control the disease activity [1]. Although the effect of IL-1 blockers are known for controlling disease activity and amyloidosis [2], it is unclear whether they prevent organ damage

Objectives

In our study, we assessed the organ damage in patients with FMF treated with colchicine and IL-1 antagonists (IL-1A). It was evaluated whether new damage occurred after IL-1 antagonist treatment.

Methods

A total of 111 patients fulfilling Tel-Hashomer criteria and treated with IL-1A due to colchicine resistance were included in the study. All patients were also treated with colchicine with a maximum-tolerable dose. Patients were grouped according to their recent damage status (no damage, pre-existing damage, and damage developed under IL-1A treatment). The degree of damage was determined using Autoinflammatory Disease Damage Index (ADDI) and modified form of ADDI (mADDI) [3, 4].

Results

44 patients (42,3%) had damage according to the modified ADDI (mADDI) index; three patients experienced new damage under IL-1 antagonist treatment while four patients showed progression of damage and mADDI score.

In patients with a positive mADDI score, the most common damage was amyloidosis (n=28, 63%), the second most frequent was musculoskeletal findings (N=14, 31%), and the third was infertility (N=2, 0,04%). The most common domains of FMF-related damage with IL-1 antagonist treatment were musculoskeletal (n=4), renal (n=2) and reproductive system (n=2)

Conclusion

Our study was the first study to evaluate the progression of damage in patients with FMF and treated- with IL-1 antagonists. Although it is known that IL-1A is effective in colchicine-resistant patients, physicians should be aware that damage can still develop under IL-1A treatment.

References

[1]Chae JJ, Aksentijevich I, Kastner DL. Advances in the understanding of familial Mediterranean fever and possibilities for targeted therapy. Br J Haematol 2009; 146:467–78.

[2]Ozcakar ZB, Ozdel S, Yilmaz S, Kurt-Sukur ED, Ekim M et al. Anti-IL-1 treatment in familial Mediterranean fever and related amyloidosis. Clinical Rheumatology 2016; 35 (2): 441- 446. doi: 10.1007/s10067-014-2772-2

[3]Ter Haar NM, Annink KV, Al-Mayouf SM et al.: Development of the autoinflammatory disease damage index (ADDI). Ann Rheum Dis 2017; 76: 821-30

[4]Babaoglu H, Armagan B, Bodakci E, Satis H, Atas N, Sari A, Yasar Bilge NS, Bilici Salman R, Yardimci GK, Avanoglu Guler A, Karadeniz H, Kilic L, Ozturk MA, Goker B, Haznedaroglu S, Kalyoncu U, Kasifoglu T, Tufan A. Factors associated with damage in patients with familial Mediterranean fever. Clin Exp Rheumatol. 2020 Sep-Oct;38 Suppl 127(5):42-48.

Table 1.

Comparison of clinical and laboratory parameters between groups according to damage

No damageNew damageAny damageP valueAge (years)48,456,467,50,002Sex (K/E)34/332/525/19NSFollow-up time (years)4043560,33Dominant attack typePeritonitis(63,7%)NAArthritis(34,1%)NSPersistent inflammation33,642,344,30,05AIDAI score394048NSMutationsM694V/M694V26214NSM694V/any44438M694V/M680I314M680I/any119

•SAIDAI: Auto-Inflammatory Diseases Activity Index

Acknowledgements

All participants were confirmed for both participation and publication. Local Ethical Committee approved the study

Disclosure of Interests

None declared

Comparison of the effect of bipolar coagulation and fibrillar structured oxidized cellulose on formation epidural fibrosis in rats

Background/aim

Epidural fibrosis (EF) is a common cause of failed back surgery syndrome seen after spinal surgeries. The most frequent reason for the formation of EF is accumulated blood and its products in the operation zone. On the development of EF, the effect of bipolar coagulation and fibrillar oxidized cellulose, which are used frequently to control bleeding, was investigated.

Materials and methods

In the study, 45 male Sprague Dawley rats were divided into three groups (control, fibrillar, and bipolar). Lumbar laminectomy was applied to all rats under sterile conditions. In the control group, the epidural area was washed with saline solution. Bleeding was controlled with fibrillar oxidized cellulose in the fibrillar group, with bipolar coagulation in the bipolar group. The area to which laminectomy had been applied was removed as a block 6 weeks later and evaluated histopathologically and genetically in terms of EF development. Fibrosis degree was determined histopathologically by counting fibroblasts using the modified Lubina and EF He grading systems. Interleukin-6 (IL-6), transforming growth factor beta-1 (TGFβ-1), and mRNA levels were measured by the droplet digital polymerase chain reaction method.

Results

The number of epidural fibroblasts, percentage of modified Lubina, amount of IL-6, and He grading rates were significantly lower in the fibrillar group than in the bipolar and control groups (p ˂ 0.05). On the other hand, there was no significant difference among the control, fibrillar, and bipolar groups in terms of TGFβ-1 values (p= 0.525).

Conclusion

The use of fibrillar oxidized cellulose was more effective for hemostasis than bipolar coagulation in reducing the development of EF.

P–066 Does microfluidic sperm sorting (MSS) affect embryo euploidy rates in couples with high sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF)?

Study question

Does MSS (microfluid chip-sorted spermatozoa selection) provide improvement on embryo quality and euploidy rates in couples with high SDF (sperm DNA fragmentation) and previous failed in vitro fertilization/ intracystoplasmic sperm injection (IVF/ICSI) cycles?

Summary answer

Use of MSS technique provides higher number of top quality blastocysts compared to density gradient centrifugation (DGC), however euploidy and live birth rates weren’t improved.

What is known already

Previously it has been reported that sperm DNA damage leads to poor embryo development and there is a significant association between SDF and high embryo aneuploidy rates. Recently this fact raised attention to sperm selection techniques such as MSS to enhance embryo quality, miscarriage rates and embryonic euploidy rates.

Study design, size, duration

This was a retrospective electronic medical record (EMR) analysis of a tertiary assisted reproduction center between 2016 and 2020. All EMR were reviewed to select eligible cases as; couples undergoing a new IVF/ICSI cycle with PGT-A (preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidies). In total, data from 243 patients were obtained for the analysis that accounts for 688 embryos.

Participants/materials, setting, methods

Patients had at least 2 previous failed IVF cycles and males had at least 20% SDF. In their new cycles, MSS was offered, preceding ICSI and PGT-A. Couples who accepted the technique were assigned to MSS group (92 cycles with 310 embryos) and the rest were managed with DGC and assigned as controls (151 cycles with 378 embryos). Azoospermia cases and women with age&gt;43, uterine abnormalities, trombophilia were excluded. Biopsies were performed at blastocyst stage.

Main results and the role of chance

Two groups were comparable in terms of demographic data including women and men age, SDF, sperm parameters and cycle characteristics. There was no difference between groups in terms of fertilization rates (MSS 85% vs DGC 79% p = 0.9), euploidy rates (MSS 53.2% vs DGC 50.7% p = 0.3), mean no of euploid embryo per patient (MSS 1.09 vs DGC 0.95 p = 0.3), positive pregnancy test (MSS 50% vs DGC 38.4% p = 0.06), clinical miscarriage (MSS 7.6% vs DGC 6.6% p = 0.7) and live birth rates (LBR)(MSS 42.4% vs DGC 31.7% p = 0.09). Total no of blastocysts and top quality blastocysts were significantly higher in MSS group than in DGC (3.9 vs 2.5 p &lt; 0.01 and 1.6 vs 0.8 p &lt; 0.001 respectively).

Limitations, reasons for caution

Retrospective design, small sample size, lack of proper randomization and power analysis are the main limitations.

Wider implications of the findings: Offering PGT-A to couples with unexplained repeated IVF failures and high SDF seems feasible. MSS for such cases improves embryonic division process as improved blastulation rates were documented. However, euploidy rates were not improved in MSS group revealing that other factors influence comprehensive chromosomal status of an embryo.

Trial registration number

Not applicable

OP0125 TOFACITINIB IN RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS-ASSOCIATED INTERSTITIAL LUNG DISEASE: EFFICACY AND SAFETY ANALYSIS FROM TREASURE REAL-LIFE DATA

Background:

Beyond the joints, rheumatoid arthritis (RA) may affect lungs. Especially the involvement of the paranchyme, RA-associated interstitial lung disease (RA-ILD), is a major cause of mortality and morbidity. Tofacitinib, an oral JAK 1/3 inhibitor, has been used increasingly in the management of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in recent years. Recently, a couple of animal and human studies reported promising results (1).

Objectives:

To assess the real-life efficacy and safety of tofacitinib in patients with RA-ILD in TReasure registry.

Methods:

This is a multicenter, observational study included RA patients with ILD diagnosis based on the HRCT images of the lungs, and were followed in 8 different centers participated in the TReasure database. Demographic data and patients’ characteristics regarding RA and RA-ILD at the visit in which tofacitinib was initiated and for the last follow-up visit under tofacitinib were recorded. Using the present study cohort, the RA patients with ILD receiving tofacitinib were compared with those without ILD receiving tofacitinib (controls) in terms of the general and disease-related characteristics and data of concomitant DMARD use. To evaluate retention rates of tofacitinib and reasons for discontinuation, data of the patients with RA-ILD in this study cohort were compared with the data of RA patients without ILD who were followed in Hacettepe University (major contributor of the TReasure registry). This research was funded by Pfizer.

Results:

A total of 47 RA patients with RA-ILD and a control group of 387 patients without ILD were included. The RA patients with ILD receiving tofacitinib were mostly male, older, and had higher baseline disease activity as compared with those without ILD (Table). The ILD pattern was known in 44 (93.6%) of 47 RA-ILD: 16 (36.3%) had UIP, 24 (54.5%) had NSIP, and 4 (9.1%) had airway disease. While 15 (31.9%) of the patients was asymptomatic, most common initial symptom was shortness of breath (in 14 (29.7%) patients). 18 patients had pre- and post-treatment FVC% and FEV1% values (with a median of 12 (9-19) months). Mean FEV1%; 82.1 vs. 82.8 (pre and post-treatment, respectively, p=0.079), mean FVC%; 79.8 vs. 82.8 (pre and post-treatment, respectively, p=0.014). To evaluate retention rates and reasons for discontinuation, 47 RA-ILD and 239 RA patients without ILD were analyzed. Retention rates were similar (p=0.21, log-rank) (Figure). Most common cause of tofacitinib discontinuation in RA-ILD group was infections (5 (25%) patients). Follow-up durations under tofacitinib were 15 (7-32) and 11 (4-24) months in ILD + and – groups, respectively. The rate of drug discontinuation due to infection in the RA patients with and without ILD was 6.3 per 100 patient-years and 2.4 per 100 patient-years, respectively.

Table 1.

Characteristics of the RA patients with and without ILD under tofacitinib

VariablesRA-ILD(+) n=47RA-ILD(-) n=387pMale sex20 (42.6)69 (17.8)<0.001Age, years64 (57-69)56 (46-64)<0.001Disease duration for RA, months128 (78-212)110 (64-183)0.171Smoking statusNever smoker26 (55.3)211 (56.4)0.259 Current&Ex-smoker19 (44.7)163 (43.6)RF (+)36 (78.3)249 (68.8)0.187Anti-CCP (+)30 (65.2)196 (61.6)0.640RF positive or CCP (+)41 (87.2)242 (76.3)0.094Presence of comorbidity33 (70.2)203 (52.5)0.021DAS-28 before tofacitinib5.4 (4.6-6.22)4.36 (3.22-5.58)<0.001ESR before tofacitinib, mm/h38 (19-73)29 (17-45)0.029CRP before tofacitinib6.75 (1.63-24)9.95 (4.18-25.1)0.065Follow-up duration under tofacitinib15 (7-32)7 (3-12)<0.001Figure 1.

Tofacitinib retention rates in the RA patients with and without ILD

Conclusion:

In majority of patients, pulmonary functions remained stable during follow-up. Tofacitinib seems as a promising option for RA-ILD. High rate of discontinuation due infections was observed in RA-ILD patients under tofacitinib; however, it should be kept in mind that RA-ILD patients were older than RA patients without ILD.

References:

[1]Bejarano M, et al AB0418 ILD in Patients with RA Treated with tofacitinib. ARD;78:1672.

Disclosure of Interests:

Umut Kalyoncu Speakers bureau: Pfizer, Abbvie, UCB, Amgen, Emre Bilgin: None declared, Abdulsamet Erden: None declared, Hasan Satiş: None declared, abdurrahman tufan: None declared, Emre Tekgoz: None declared, Aşkin Ateş: None declared, Belkis Nihan Coşkun: None declared, Burcu Yağiz: None declared, Orhan Küçükşahin: None declared, Veli yazisiz: None declared, Gezmiş Kimyon: None declared, Cemal Bes: None declared, Ali İhsan Ertenli: None declared, Sedat Kiraz: None declared

AB0414 CROSS-CULTURAL ADAPTATION, CONVERGENT VALIDITY, AND RELIABILITY OF THE TURKISH VERSION OF THE COCHIN 17-ITEM SCLERODERMA FUNCTIONAL SCALE

Background:

The Cochin 17-item Scleroderma Functional (CSF-17) Scale is a patient-reported outcome measure evaluating activities and participation in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc).

Objectives:

The aim of the present study was to translate and cross-culturally adapt the CSF-17 into the Turkish language and investigate its convergent validity and reliability in Turkish-speaking patients with SSc.

Methods:

The CSF-17 was cross-culturally adapted according to Beaton’s guideline. Participants completed CSF-17 Scale, Scleroderma Health Assessment Questionnaire (SHAQ), Short Form-12 (SF-12) Health Survey and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Internal consistency and test-retest reliability were determined interpreting Cronbach’s alpha and Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) values, respectively. Convergent validity was tested using Pearson’s correlation coefficient.

Results:

Fifty-six patients with SSc were enrolled in the study. Cronbach’s alpha and ICC values of the CSF-17 total score were found to be as 0.963 and 0.958, respectively, indicating excellent reliability. As for the convergent validity, it was determined that CSF-17 total score has a good correlation with SHAQ. Correlations of subscales of CSF-17 with subscales of SF-12 and HADS ranged from poor to moderate (Table 1).

Conclusion:

Tukish version of CSF-17 met the set criteria of reliability and convergent validity. According to the results of the analysis, it was concluded that the Turkish version of the CSF-17 is a reliable and valid tool for Turkish-speaking SSc patients.

References:

[1]Daste C, Abdoul H, Foissac F et al. Development of a new patient-reported outcome measure to assess activities and participation in people with systemic sclerosis: the Cochin 17-item Scleroderma Functional scale. British Journal of Dermatology 2020; 183:710-718.

[2]Beaton DE, Bombardier C, Guillemin F et al. Guidelines for the process of cross-cultural adaptation of self-report measures. Spine 2000; 25(24):3186-3191.

[3]Karadag DT, Karakas F, Tekeoglu S et al. Validation of Turkish version of the Scleroderma Health Assessment Questionnaire. Clin Rheumatol, 2019,38(7):1917-1923.

[4]Ware Jr J, Kosinski M, Keller SD. A 12-Item Short-Form Health Survey: construction of scales and preliminary tests of reliability and validity. Med. Care, 1996,34:220-233.

[5]Zigmond A, Snaith R. The hospital anxiety and depression scale. Acta Psychiatr Scand, 1983,67:361-370.

[6]Terwee CB, Bot SD, de Boer MR et al. Quality criteria were proposed for measurement properties of health status questionnaires. J Clin Epidemiol, 2007,60:34–42.

Table 1.

Convergent validity of the CSF-17

ScalesCSF-17Section ASection BTotalSHAQ0.680**0.640**0.702**HADS-A0.405*0.472**HADS-D0.460**0.605**SF-12 MCS-0.482**-0.491**SF-12 PCS-0.745**-0.700**

CSF-17: Cochin 17-item Scleroderma Functional scale, SHAQ: Scleroderma Health Assessment Questionnaire, HADS-A: Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale-Anxiety, HADS-D: Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale-Depression, SF 12 MCS: Short Form-12 Mental Component Score, SF-12 PSC: Short Form-12 Physical Component Score.

*p<0.05, **p<0.001

Disclosure of Interests:

None declared

POS0940 THE IMPACT OF TUMOUR NECROSIS FACTOR-ALPHA INHIBITOR TREATMENT ON WNT SIGNALING INHIBITORS, NOGGIN AND CYTOKINE LEVELS IN AXIAL SPONDYLOARTHRITIS

Background:

Axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) is a common chronic inflammatory disease of the axial skeleton. Some cytokines have important roles in initiation and progression of disease and are elevated in active disease. Additionally, Wnt signaling pathway inhibitors and noggin also appear to be involved in pathogenesis of ankylosing spondylitis. Anti-tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF) agents have dramatically improved the clinical outcome of axSpa; however, acceptable clinical improvement is not achieved in all patients and capacity of anti-TNF to slow or prevent structural damage still remains controversial.

Objectives:

To evaluate the effect of anti-TNF on inflammatory and noninflammatory milieu in patients with axSpA.

Methods:

In this prospective study we included 30 biologic treatment naive adult patients with axSpA and 30 healthy controls. All patients with high disease activity were treated with anti-TNF therapy for 6 months. Laboratory and clinical evaluation of all patients were performed at baseline and after 6 months of anti-TNF treatment. Following cytokines and wnt/BMP antagonists were measured; TNF-Alpha, COX-2, IL-6, IL-17, IL-22, IL-23, IL-33, dickkopf-1, sclerostin, noggin.

Results:

The mean age of patients with axSpA and healthy controls were 38.1±13.3 and 37.7±7.7 years, respectively (p>0.005). At baseline, the median (IQR) TNF-alpha was higher in axSpA patients when compared to healthy controls, 34.4 pg/ml (31.4-37.03) vs 18.1 pg/ml (12.1-28.4), (p<0.001), while the median (IQR) dickkopf-1 and sclerostin were lower in axSpA patients, 446.7 pg/ml (356.9-529.3) vs 1088.7 pg/ml (951.7-1244.4), (p<0.001) and 312.4 pg/ml (140.8-412.7) vs 412.3 pg/ml (295.4-512.8), (p<0.001), respectively. IL-17, IL-22, IL-33, dickkopf-1 and sclerostin increased with anti-TNF treatment (table 1).

Conclusion:

Elevation of some cytokines which are important in pathogenesis of axSpA and nonincrease in noggin with anti-TNF drugs may affect effectiveness of anti-TNF treatment.

Table 1.

Changes of cytokines, dickkopf-1, sclerostin and noggin with anti-TNF treatment.

Pre-Anti-TNFPost-Anti-TNFP valueIL-645(39.1-68.8)47.6(27.3-61.1)0.750IL-1793.3 (85.1-104.8)102.1(86.6-114.6)0.026IL-22159,2 (151,9-178.4)183.5(156.3-304.6)0.033IL-2336.5 (26.1-52.9)41.3(28.4-55.5)0.658IL-33127.8 (106.6-186.1)147.06(128.5-213.4)0.016COX20.176 (0-0.374)0.202(0.051-1.151)0.469TNFalpha34.4(31.4-37.03)30.7(12.8-35.6)0.004Dickkopf-1446.7(356.9-529.3)881.3(663.1-972.2)<0.001Sclerostin312.4 (140.8-412.7)405.1(276.3-452.5)0.018Noggin48.3(17.04-153.9)31.2(11.3-103.7)0.264

Disclosure of Interests:

None declared

AB0300 LUPUS DISEASE ACTIVITY CORRELATES WITH QUALITY OF LIFE BUT NOT WITH HEALTH LITERACY STATUS

Background:

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease of unknown etiology that can affect any organ of the body. SLE is associated with adverse effects on both health and non-health-related quality of life (HRQOL and non-HRQOL). Lupus PRO is a patient reported outcome measure that has been validated in many languages. It has 44 items that cover both HRQOL and non-HRQOL (1). Health literacy is defined as the degree to which individuals have the capacity to obtain, process and understand basic health information and services needed to make appropriate health decisions. Multiple studies indicate that people with limited health literacy have worse health status and higher rates of hospitalization (2).

Objectives:

We aimed to evaluate the relationship between the LLDAS (Lupus Low Disease Activity State) criteria and the Lupus PRO test, as well as the health literacy status of lupus patients.

Methods:

83 SLE patients (94% women) were included in the study. We performed Lupus PRO and the European Health Literacy Survey tests during the routine follow-up visits of lupus patients to our rheumatology outpatient clinic and admissions to rheumatology inpatient clinic. Available clinical data on medical records were obtained, physician global assessments (PGA) were recorded by the attending physician.

Results:

LLDAS criteria strongly and inversely correlated with the total score, as well as the mood subunit of the Lupus PRO. Similarly, it also significantly inversely correlated with the body appearence and goals subunits. Health literacy status of the patients did not correlate with their LLDAS scores, ie their disease activities.

Conclusion:

Our results suggest that lupus disease activity, assessed by LLDAS criteria, significantly correlates with measures of quality of life, spesicifically Lupus PRO test, but not with health literacy status. Further studies are needed to evaluate if health literacy is related with damage, hospitalization or mortality associated with lupus.

References:

[1]Jolly M, Pickard AS, Block JA, Kumar RB, Mikolaitis RA, Wilke CT, et al., editors. Disease-specific patient reported outcome tools for systemic lupus erythematosus. Seminars in arthritis and rheumatism; 2012: Elsevier.

[2]Paasche-Orlow MK, Parker RM, Gazmararian JA, Nielsen-Bohlman LT, Rudd RR. The prevalence of limited health literacy. Journal of general internal medicine. 2005;20(2):175-84.

Disclosure of Interests:

None declared

AB0097 DIAGNOSTIC ACCURACY OF SERUM MARKERS IN LARGE VESSEL VASCULITIS AND CORRELATION WITH PET IMAGING

Background:

The onset of symptoms in large-vessel vasculitis (LVV) tends to be subacute, which often leads to a delay in diagnosis, during which time vascular disease may start and progress to become symptomatic. PET/CT has been recognised since the 2003s as a promising tool in evaluating of LVV. There is no gold standard diagnostic laboratory tests for this patient group, novel markers for active LVV is needed.

Objectives:

to investigate the association between vascular inflammation, as detected by PET imaging and interleukin-6 (IL-6), pentraxin3 (PTX3), and B-cell-activating-factor (BAFF) in subjects with LVV.

Methods:

The study included 67 patients patients with newly diagnosed GCA (n= 27) or TA (n=9) and healthy control (n= 31) who had been referred to the Rheumatology Unit at Gazi University, between December 2017 and August 2020. PET images obtained from an 29 patients (22 with GCA and 7 with TA) who had not received any corticosteroid treatment prior to PET imaging and blood sampling. IL-6, PTX3, and BAFF levels were determined quantitatively by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits.

Results:

36 patients with LVV (20 females,16 males; age 64,5±16,6) and 31 HC (14 females,17 males; age37,1±9,6) were analysed. Serum levels of IL-6,PTX3, BAFF, ESR and CRP are increased in patients with newly diagnosed LVV compared with those in control subjects. In a ROC analysis, serum IL-6 provided excellent discrimination of newly diagnosed LVV patients from HC, as indicated by AUCs>0.90. Serum BAFF also accurately distinguished newly diagnosed LVV patients from HC with AUCs>0.80. Serum PTX3 did not provide an AUC>0.80. In this study, we correlate vascular inflammation, as detected by PET imaging in newly diagnosed LVV patients, with the ESR, CRP. PTX3, IL-6 and BAFF. As a result, none of these markers has been associated with vascular inflammation as measured using PET.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, our study shows that serum levels of PTX3, IL-6 and BAFF are increased in most LVV patients. The diagnostic value of BAFF and IL-6, both separately and in combination, should be further evaluated in larger cohorts of LVV patients, as well as in patients with infections or other inflammatory conditions. However, none of these markers has been associated with vascular inflammation as measured using PET.

Disclosure of Interests:

None declared

POS1193 CLINICAL FEATURES AND THE COURSE OF COVID-19 IN PATIENTS WITH FAMILIAL MEDITERRANEAN FEVER

Background:

The novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) has a wide range of clinical presentation from asymptomatic or mild viral infection to severe life-threating complications, including acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), which develop as a result of immune system dysregulation, exaggerated immune response, and cytokine release syndrome [1]. Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF) is a hereditary autoinflammatory disorder characterized by dysfunction of the innate immune system and excessive production of proinflammatory cytokines, including interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, interferon-gamma, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha, all of which have increased in severe cases in COVID-19 [1-3].

Objectives:

The aim of this study is to report clinical characteristics and outcome of FMF patients with COVID-19.

Methods:

This study included 48 consecutive FMF patients who were diagnosed COVID-19 by SARS-CoV-2 nucleic acid RT-PCR in nasopharyngeal swab or sputum, or symptoms and computed tomography findings suggestive for COVID-19. Data on demographic and clinical characteristics of FMF disease, clinical course and outcome of COVID-19 were evaluated.

Results:

The median age of patients was 35.5 (29-43.5) years, ranging from 18 to 87 years. The median disease duration of FMF was 10 (6-16) years. The most common presenting symptoms and signs of patients during attacks were peritonitis (85.5%), fever (81.3%), and pleuritis (48%). Twelve (25%) patients had amyloidosis. Comorbidities were present in half of patients with ankylosing spondylitis (21%) and hypertension (17%) being the most frequently seen. Two-third of patients (66%) were in remission for FMF. The median dosage of colchicine treatment for FMF was 1.5 (IQR 1) mg/day. 90% of patients continued colchicine treatment for FMF during the COVID-19 course. The baseline characteristics and treatment modalities of patients were demonstrated in Table 1. Forty-six patients presented with at least one COVID-19 symptoms. Fever (73%), myalgia/arthralgia (69%), and cough (60%) were the most common symptoms. 16 patients were admitted at hospital, 5 of them required oxygen therapy and 2 patients with amyloidosis developed ARDS and went to intensive care unit (ICU) for invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV). One patient who had been followed-up at ICU died.

Conclusion:

Our FMF patients with COVID-19 have similar clinical features and outcomes as general population. Dysregulation of innate immune system in FMF might not be risk factors for COVID-19. Besides, colchicine and IL-1 inhibitors intake might have protective and preventive effects on COVID-19 progression.

Table 1.

Baseline characteristics, treatment modalities and outcome of patients

Age years, median (IQR)39.4 (15)Gender (F/M)25/23FMF Disease duration, years, median (IQR)10 (10)Mutations*Monoallelic mutation, n (%)6 (14)Biallelic mutation, n (%)34 (81)Homozygous M694V mutation18 (43)Heterozygous M694V mutation15 (36)Comorbidities, n (%)24 (50)FMF treatmentColchicine 1 mg/day, n (%)17 (35.5)Colchicine 1.5 mg/day, n (%)18 (37.5)Colchicine 2 mg/day, n (%)13 (27) Anakinra, n (%)12 (25)Canakinumab, n (%)3 (6.3)Positive SARS-Cov-2 RT-PCR, n (%)42 (87.5)Interstitial pneumonia in CT scan, n (%)15 (31.3)COVID-19 treatment, n (%)46 (95.8)Outpatient treatment, n (%)32 (66.7)Hospitalized, not required supplemental oxygen, n (%)9 (18.8)Hospitalized, required supplemental oxygen, n (%)5 (10.4)ICU, required IMV, n (%)2 (4.2)OutcomeRecovered, n (%)47 (98)Deceased, n (%)1 (2)Complications, n (%)3 (6.3)

*42 patients were included in the analysis

References:

[1]Tufan A, Avanoğlu Güler A, Matucci-Cerinic M. COVID-19, immune system response, hyperinflammation and repurposing antirheumatic drugs. Turkish journal of medical sciences. 2020;50:620-632.

[2]Hausmann JS. Targeting cytokines to treat autoinflammatory diseases. Clinical immunology (Orlando, Fla.). 2019;206:23-32.

[3]Tufan A, Lachmann HJ. Familial Mediterranean fever, from pathogenesis to treatment: a contemporary review. Turkish journal of medical sciences. 2020;50:1591-1610.

Disclosure of Interests:

None declared.

Success of Simpler Modified Fried Frailty Scale to Predict Mortality among Nursing Home Residents

OBJECTIVE

Fried frailty scale is the very first and most commonly used assessment scale for an operational definition of frailty with its demonstrated success as a predictor of mobility limitations and mortality. However, it is impractical for use in routine clinical practice. We aimed to study whether a simpler modified Fried frailty scale could predict mortality among nursing home residents.

DESIGN

Retrospective longitudinal follow-up study.

SETTING

Nursing home. Baseline evaluation was performed in 2009. Mortality was assessed after 4 year.

PARTICIPANTS

Two hundred-twenty-four participants were included.

MEASUREMENTS

Residents were assessed for demographic characteristics, falls, dementia, the number of regular medications and chronic diseases, body composition by bioimpedance analysis, basic and instrumental activities of daily living besides frailty status by a modified Fried frailty scale. The residents were assessed for mortality after a median follow-up time of 46 months. The association of frailty with mortality was analyzed by the Kaplan-Meier Log-rank test and multivariate Cox Regression analysis.

RESULTS

Mortality occurred in 90 (40.2%) of the residents. In multivariate analysis, frailty was an independent predictor of death (Hazzard ratio= 1.4, 95% confidence interval= 1.03-2.6, p=0.03) when adjusted by age, sex, presence of malnutrition, low muscle mass, number of chronic diseases and regular medications.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that the simpler modified Fried frailty scale can be used as a screening tool for frailty in everyday practice as a tool to identify risky patients for mortality. Future reports studying its role in predicting other adverse outcomes associated with frailty are needed.

THU0608-HPR VALIDITY OF SIX MINUTE STEPPER TEST IN EVALUATION OF FUNCTIONAL EXERCISE CAPACITY IN PATIENTS WITH ANKYLOSING SPONDYLITIS

Background:

In most patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS), exercise capacity decreases due to pulmonary dysfunction, chest wall restriction and peripheral muscle weakness. The six-minute walk test (6MWT) is a validated simple field, hence frequently used to evaluate exercise capacity. However, 6MWT has some limitations, especially the fact that it requires a corridor of at least 30 meters long to perform this test which can limit its use in some centers. Shorter corridors force patients to turn more frequently, slowing down the pace of walking that reduces potential walking distance. To overcome technical and spatial limitations, 6-minute stepper test (6MST) has been proposed to evaluate exercise capacity. In the literature 6MST has been suggested for a variety of diseases. Since, it requires only a limited amount of space and equipment and is feasible, easy to perform, well tolerated.

Objectives:

In the literature, there is no study in which 6MST is used to evaluate exercise capacities of patients with AS. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate validity of 6MST in AS population in comparison to 6MWT.

Methods:

6MWT and 6MST were performed in 51 patients with AS (52.26±13.33 years, 30F/21M). Demographic and clinical characteristics were recorded. Functional exercise capacity was evaluated using 6MWT and 6MST. The total distance of 6MWT was compared to the total number of steps of 6MST. Before, during and after 6MWT and 6MST, heart rate (HR), oxygen saturation (SpO2), breathing frequency (BF), blood pressure (BP), dyspnea and fatigue were assessed using modified Borg scale.

Results:

The number of steps on the 6MST was significantly correlated with the distance of the 6MWT (r=0.61, p<0.0001). Dyspnea (p=0.04) and leg fatigue (p<0.0001) was significantly higher in 6MST than in 6MWT. HR, SpO2, BF, BP and fatigue were similar in both 6MST and 6MWT.

Conclusion:

The 6MST is a valid test to evaluate exercise capacity in patients with AS. It is also an appropriate alternative to the 6MWT for determining exercise capacity when the 6MWT is not feasible due to technical restrictions. The 6MST can be proposed as a new exercise capacity evaluation tool in AS, as it is valid, reliable, portable and inexpensive.

References:

[1]van der Esch, Martin, et al. Respiratory muscle performance as a possible determinant of exercise capacity in patients with ankylosing spondylitis. Australian Journal of Physiotherapy, 2004;50(1):41-46.

[2]ATS Committee on Proficiency Standards for Clinical Pulmonary Function Laboratories. ATS statement: guidelines for the six-minute walk test. Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2002;166(1):111–117.

[3]Grosbois JM, Riquier C, Chehere B, et al. Six-minute stepper test: a valid clinical exercise tolerance test for COPD patients. Int J Chron Obstruct Pulmon Dis. 2016;11:657–663.

Disclosure of Interests:

None declared

THU0378 DO COMORBIDITIES DECREASE THE FIRST TNF-INHIBITOR RETENTION AND TREATMENT RESPONSE IN AXIAL SPONDYLOARTHRITIS PATIENTS? DATA FROM TURKBIO

Background:

The frequency of comorbidities has increased in spondyloarthritis patients compared to the general population. The effect of comorbidities on tumour necrosis factor alpha inhibitor (TNFi) drug retention and treatment response has not been well evaluated.

Objectives:

The purpose of this study to assess the impact of comorbidities on the first TNFi drug survival and treatment response in patients with axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) registered in theTURKBIOdatabase.

Methods:

In this study, the frequency of comorbidities, disease activity scores at baseline and month 6 and drug retention were recorded in AxSpA patients iniating first TNFi treatment between 2011 and 2019. Kaplan Meier plot and log rank tests were used for drug survival analysis. Cox regression analysis with HR was performed to evaluate the correlation between comorbidities and drug survival.

Results:

There were 2428 patients with AxSpA (39.3% female) who used their first TNFi during the study period. Among them, a total of 770 (31%) had at least one comorbid disease. Hypertension was the most common comorbidity (9.7%), followed by the affective disorders (8%) and chronic lung disease (5.8%). The baseline characteristics of patients are shown in Table 1.The presence of any comorbidity did not impact the first TNFi retention (Figure 1). When comorbidities were analysed seperately, we found that only history of cerebrovascular event was negatively associated with drug retention rate (HR: 6.9, p:0.008). There was no statistically significant difference in Bath AS Disease Activity Index 50% (BASDAI50) response between patients with and without comorbidity at 6 months. Less axSpA patients with comorbidity achieved a ASDAS score ≤ 2.1 compared to patients without comorbidity at 6 months.

Table 1.

Baseline Characteristics of Patients

Radiographic Spondyloarthritis, n (%)2318 (95.5)Female, n(%)954 (39.3)Age, year42.2±11.8Age at diagnosis, years32.5± 11.3Age at initial TNFi, years39.4 ± 11.1Symptom duration, years9.7± 7.5Time to initial TNFi, years7±6.8HLA-B27- positivity, n (%)1144 (47.1)Smokers, n (%)1068 (44)Baseline BASDAI35.5±22.2Baseline ASDAS-CRP2.8±1.1Baseline CRP (mg/L)15.7±24.4VAS global patient46.6±28.7

-Quantitative variables are presented as mean ± SD, and qualitative variables are presented as frequency and percentage

-ASDAS-CRP, Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Score using C-reactive protein VAS, visual analogue scale

Conclusion:

The results of this study demonstrated that the presence of previous cerebrovascular event decreased the first TNFi survival in patients with axSpA. It also suggested that comorbidities might decrease TNFi treatment response.

Disclosure of Interests:

None declared

THU0390 THE INFLUENCE OF OBESITY ON RETENTION AND TREATMENT RESPONSE OF SECUKINUMAB IN PATIENTS WITH AXIAL SPONDYLOARTHRITIS: REAL LIFE DATA FROM THE TURKBIO REGISTRY

Background:

Axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) is a chronic, inflammatory disease that primarily affects the axial skeleton. Secukinumab is a human monoclonal antibody that binds to the protein interleukin (IL)-17A. Although some studies showed that obesity had a negative effect on the efficacy of tumor necrosis factor alpha inhibitor (TNFα -i) treatment in AS patients (1), no data is available for secukinumab.

Objectives:

To evaluate the effect of obesity on the treatment response and drug survival of secukinumab in patients with axSpA.

Methods:

We performed an observational cohort study based on the TURKBIO between 2018-2020. A total of 185 patients were included in the study. The patients were divided into three groups as obese (BMI≥30 kg/m2), overweight (BMI:25-30 kg/m2), and normal (BMI<25 kg/m2). Disease activity was evaluated at baseline and 3, 6 and 12 months of secukinumab therapy. Clinical response was evaluated as achievement of BASDAI50, ASAS20/40, and ASDAS-Clinical and improvement (CII and MI) rates.

Results:

185 axSpA patients were identified in the registry; 135 (72%) had available BMI data. Thirty nine (28.8%) patients were obese. The mean age of obese patients was higher (p=0.002). The frequency of HLA-B27 and male gender was lower in obese group (p=0.012 and p=0.013, respectively). There was no significant difference between groups in terms of clinical response parameters at 3, 6 and 12 months (Table 1). Drug retention rates were higher in biologic naive patients(p=0.007) (Figure 1).

Table 1(BMI <25) (n=33)(BMI 25-30)(n=63)(BMI ≥ 30)(n=39)PAll patients (n=185)Age (years)40.2±11.345.7±11.750.0±10.60.002 *45.2±11Male Gender n (%)25 (75.8)34 (54.0)16 (41.1)0.012 **104 (56.2)HLA-B27 (+) n (%)14 (73.6)37 (84.0)11 (44.0)0.013 **76 (64.3)Prior Naive/1/≥2 bDMARD n (%)12 (36.3)/9 (27.3)/12 (36.3)17 (26.9)/13 (20.6)/33 (52.4)10 (25.6)/14 (35.8)/27 (69.2)0.30256 (30.3)/ 49 (26,5)/ 80 (43,2)ASAS20 response¶13 (61.9)/11 (57.9)/4 (57.1)19 (48.7)/16 (59.3)/8 (42.1)11 (40.7)/7 (29.1)/3 (50.0)0.345/0.073/0.88659 (518)/47 (49.5)/20 (42.6)ASAS40 response¶9 (42.9)/7 (36.8)/3 (42.9)15 (39.5)/10 (37)/1 (5.3)6 (24)/5 (20,8)/3 (50.0)0.334/0.386/0.01240 (35.0)/29 (30.5)/11 (23.4)BASDAI50 response ¶10 (47.6)/9 (47.4)/4 (57.1)15 (39.5)/11 (40.5)/3 (15.8)9 (34.6)/5 (21.7)/3 (50.0)0.634/0.192/0.07748 (42.1)/37 (38.9)/16 (34.0)ASDAS-CII ¶3 (14.3)/5 (26.3)/1 (14.3)6 (17.6)/8 (30.8)/5 (27.8)6 (23.1)/5 (21.7)/2 (33.3)0.237/0.162/0.53123 (21.4)/22 (23.6)/11 (23.9)ASDAS-MI ¶5 (23.8)/3 (15.8)/0 (0)8 (23.5)/6 (23.1)/2 (11.11 (3.8)/1 (4.3)/1 (16.7)0.237/0.162/0.53118 (16.8)/18 (19.3)/8 (17.4)

§; Mean±SD. ¶; at 3/6/12 Months, n (%),*One-way ANOVA test, ** Pearson Chi-Sqaure Test

Figure 1

Conclusion:

This study demonstrated that obesity had no impact on the efficacy and retention of secukinumab treatment in patients diagnosed with axSpA. The drug survival was found to be higher among biologic-naive axSpA patients compared to biologic-experienced.

References:

[1]Ottaviani S.et al. ‘’Body mass index influences the response to infliximab in ankylosing spondylitis’’,Arthritis Res Ther 2012; 14: R11

Disclosure of Interests:

None declared

AB1065 VISIT COMPLIANCE IN PATIENTS WITH FAMILIAL MEDITERRANEAN FEVER: RESULTS FROM A GAZI UNIVERSITY FMF COHORT

Background:

Follow-up in all rheumatologic patients is critical, particularly Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF). Current recommendations for all experts by the EULAR state that patients with FMF should be evaluated 6-monthly intervals to monitore the character and frequency of the attacks and the acute phase response. Disease-related complications such as amyloidosis can beasymptomaticand need only a careful follow-up.

Objectives:

to quantify this phenomenon and to find predictive factors of visit compliance in patients with FMF.

Methods:

The study included 474 adult patients with a diagnosis of FMF who followed at the outpatient rheumatology clinic of tertiary university hospital, from January 2018 to December 2018. . Demographic, socioeconomic data, familiy history, comorbid disease, medication history, characteristics, the International Severity Score for FMF (ISSF),autoinflammatory disease damage index (ADDI) were recorded. Visit compliance was defined as the presence of two visits in the outpatient rheumatology clinic for FMF last one year for the purposes set out in EULAR suggestion.Those who had fewer than two visits in the last one year were considered noncompliant.

Results:

230 (48.5%) were compliant while 244 (51.5 %) patients were noncompliant with their rheumatology visit. Both compliant and noncompliant patients had similar median age and disease duration. Female sex and being married was increased the visit compliance.The results of the logistic regression model exploring factors associated with compliance indicated that presence of family history in parents, absence of family history in sibling, treatment with biologic agents, other drug using,presence of more than 2 attacks except fever and adequate medical care were important predictors of visit compliance.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, if FMF patients visit compliance increase, their functionality, medication adherence and quality of life will increase and flares and complication of disease can decrease. Thus, we highlight some recommendations for FMF specialist, patients and health care providers to improve outcomes.

Table 2.

Multivariate logistic regression analysis for predictive factors of visit compliance of the patients with FMF, n=430

Adj. OR%95 CI**pFamily history in parents(positive history vs negative)1,81,0-3,10.03Family history in sibling(negative history vs positive)1,91,2-3,10.004Comorbid disease status1,30,7-2,50.32Treatment(anakinra&canakinumab vs colchicine)3,71,7-8,20.001Drug using(other drugs vs FMF drugs)2,21,1-4,40.01More than 2 attacks except fever2,31,2-4,00.004Chronic peripheral arthritis2,30,8-6,60.10Proteinuria2,20,7-6,70.14Adequate medical care1,91,2-3,10.003Number of index flare within last 12-month0,90,9-1,00.38ISSF severity score0,80,7-1,10,30

Disclosure of Interests:

None declared

AB0548 ASSESMENT OF THE PHYSICAL ACTIVITY IN SYSTEMIC SCLEROSIS PATIENTS BY USING COMMERCIAL SMART BANDS AND ITS ASSOCIATION WITH DISEASE CHARACTERISTICS: A PILOT STUDY

Background:

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a complex disease, characterized by multi-system organ involvement including interstitial lung disease (ILD) and pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). The decrease in physical activity in SSc patients with lung involvement has been demonstrated by self-reported physical capacity and 6 min-walking test (6MWT) (1, 2). Commercial smart bands can provide data on daily physical activity, sleep characteristics, blood oxygen concentration and heart rate measurement, therefore may aid in monitoring disease activity.

Objectives:

The aim of this study is to evaluate physical activity in SSc patients by using a commercial smart band and investigate its association with clinical characteristics and patient-reported outcome measures of disease activity

Methods:

This prospective observational study included SSc patients with having a smartphone. Patients characteristics including age, sex, and organ involvements were recorded. Each participant was subjected to pulmonary function tests and 6MWT. All of patients answered Scleroderma Health Assessment Questionnaire (SHAQ, consisting of HAQ-Disability Index (DI) and visual analog scales (VAS) domains). All patients received Fitbit inspire HR smart band® which records the number of steps, heart rate, distance and was instructed to wear it continuously for one week. Tracked data was collected from smartphones via Fitbit application.

Results:

Fifteen SSc patients (14 females and 1 male) participated in the study, 8 (53.3%) had limited SSc and 7 (46.7) had diffuse SSc. The mean age was 48.5±15.5 and the median disease duration was 4 (min-max:1-9) years. Eleven (73.3%) patients had ILD and one patient had PAH. Musculoskeletal complaints were evident in two patients. Forced vital capacity (FVC, % predicted), diffusion capacity of lung for carbon monoxide (DLCO, %) in patients with ILD were significantly lower than patients without ILD median (IQR) 102 (30) vs 80 (27) p= 0.026, 57 (20) vs 95 (13), p= 0.002, respectively. The median distance of 6MWTs were 450 (225) vs 568 (102) in ILD and non-ILD groups. The median total weekly step counts of ILD patients were remarkably lower in ILD patients compared to non-ILD 36.137 (17.879) vs 58.114 (80.681) steps/week, (p= 0.01). Patients with ILD had a bit higher median heart rate compared to non-ILD, 73 (9) vs 67.5 (12). The total weekly step counts were correlated with pulmonary function tests, including forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1%) (r= 0.57, p= 0.025), FVC (%) (r= 0.65, p= 0.009), and DLCO (%) (r= 0.70, p= 0.005), patient-reported disease severity (r=-0.66, p= 0.007), and breathing problem (r= -0.55, p= 0.03) domains of SHAQ. There was no correlation between weekly step counts and 6MWT

Conclusion:

The assessment of physical activity with smart activity bands may help to identify SSc patients with ILD. Tracked physical activity using smart bands correlates with pulmonary function tests and performs better than 6MWT, suggesting it as a useful tool for the assessment of disease activity.

References:

[1]Battaglia S, Bellia M, Serafino-Agrusa L, Giardina A, Messina M, Cannizzaro F, et al. Physical capacity in performing daily activities is reduced in scleroderma patients with early lung involvement.Clin Respir J(2017) 11(1):36-42.

[2]Mainguy V, Provencher S, Maltais F, Malenfant S, Saey D. Assessment of daily life physical activities in pulmonary arterial hypertension.PLoS One(2011) 6(11):e27993.

Disclosure of Interests:

None declared

THU0633-HPR CORE MUSCLE ENDURANCE IN PATIENTS WITH ANKYLOSING SPONDYLITIS

Background:

It is stated that the muscles responsible for spinal stability around the trunk show long-term activity at low intensity in daily life, therefore, endurance insufficiency can cause loss of functionality and spinal stabilization and may induce pain (1).

Objectives:

The primary purpose of this study was to compare the core muscle endurance of individuals with AS with the core muscle endurance of healthy individuals. The secondary aim of the study was to examine the association between core muscle endurance and balance, disease activity, spinal mobility, functional status, physical activity level and fatigue in individuals with AS.

Methods:

The research is a cross-sectional study. 41 patients with AS and 40 healthy controls were included in the study. The core muscle endurance of both groups was assessed with trunk extension test, trunk flexion test, right and left side plank tests (2). In addition, in the AS group relationship between core endurance and balance, thoracic kyphosis angle, disease activity, functionality, spinal mobility, physical activity and fatigue was examined. Balance was evaluated with BIODEX Balance Systems and thoracic kyphosis angle was evaluated with a digital inclinometer. Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index (BASDAI), Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Functional Index (BASFI), Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Metrology Index (BASMI), International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS) were used to assess disease activity, functionality, spinal mobility, physical activity and fatigue respectively.

Results:

Significant differences were found between AS group and control group in core endurance were summarized in Table 1. Additionally, significant relationships were observed between core endurance and all the assessed parameters except thoracic kyphosis angle (p<0.05), (Table 2).

Table 1.

Comparision of Core Endurance between AS and Control Groups

AS Group (n=41)Median (IQR)Control Group (n=40)Median (IQR)PTrunk Extensor Test (sec)44.0 (12.0–77.5)98.25 (63.75-120.0)<0.001Trunk Flexor Test (sec)41.0 (15.0–66.0)93.0 (55.85-120.0)<0.001Dominant Side Plank Test (sec)29.0 (9.8–62.0)43.27 (28.57–68.25)0.046Non-Dominat Side Plank Test (sec)32.0 (10.0–61.32)41.25 (25.0- 62.37)0.092

p>0.05, Mann-Whitney U Test; AS: Ankylosing Spondylitis, IQR: Interquartile Range sec: seconds

Table.2

Association between core endurance and other parameters

Trunk Extensor TestTrunk Flexor TestDominant Side Plank TestNon-Dominant Side Plank TestPain (VAS)-0.535*-0.339*-0.369*-0.203Stiffness (VAS)-0.496*-0.234-0.377*0.224Overall Stability Index-0.480*-0.488*-0.725*-0.702*BASFI-0.505*-0.441*-0.562*-0.574*BASMI-0.587*-0.390*-0.613*-0.501*BASDAI-0.468*-0.202-0.433*-0.345*Kyphosis Angle(o)-0.262-0.287-0.215-0.258IPAQ-0.354*-0.355*-0.523*-0.451*FSS-0.545*-0.445*-0.542*-0.502*

*: Spearman’s Correlation Coefficient (rho), p<0.05; VAS: Visual Analog Scale, BASDAI: Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index, BASFI: Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Functional Index, BASMI: Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Metrology Index, IPAQ:International Physical Activity Questionnaire, FSS: Fatigue Severity Scale

Conclusion:

Core muscle endurance is lower in patients with AS and it is in relation with many factors regarding the disease. The use of these tests may provide additional information about the patients’ situation for clinicians.

References:

[1]Özyürek, S., D. Bayraktar, and A. Genç,Are the alterations in body posture related to decreased trunk muscleendurance in healthy young adults? Journal of back and musculoskeletal rehabilitation, 2018. 31(3): p. 431-436.

[2]McGill, S.M., Low back stability: from formal description to issues for performance and rehabilitation. Exercise and sport sciences reviews, 2001. 29(1): p. 26-31.

Disclosure of Interests:

None declared

AB1013 CYCLOPHOSPHAMIDE VS AZATHIOPRINE FOR THE TREATMENT OF CONNECTIVE TISSUE RELATED INTERSTITIAL LUNG DISEASE

Background:

Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is a common morbidity and mortalitiy reason for connective tissue disorders (CTD). Data related to treatment options in the literature is limited

Objectives:

To describe the role of azathiopurine (AZA) in the first line treatment of connective tissue disease related interstitial lung disease CTD-ILD, comparing with cyclophosphamide (CYC)

Methods:

Between 2009 and 2019 all interstitial lung disease patients admitting rheumatology or pulmonology department were retrospectively evaluated. Among those patients,as an first line regimen treated with either azathiopurine or cyclophospamide were included. Primary end point was FVC percentage change at 6th month.

Results:

Among 328 CTD-ILD, 57 patients had AZA treat and 79 patients had CYC for the first line treatment. Patients treated with AZA tend to have limited disease and older age. CYC treatment had a mean of 2,41% increase in FVC but in AZA -1,44% decrease in FVC predicted (p:0,041) 5 major CTD groups were defined (systemic sclerosis (SSc), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), primer sjögren syndrome (pSS), dermatomyositis/ polimyositis (PM/DM), autoimmune features of intestitial lung disease (IPAF)). AZA had similar efficacy in, PM/DM and IPAF groups but worse outcome in SSc, RA and pSS compared to CYC.

Conclusion:

AZA treatment might be an option patients with limited disease extent and the diagnosis of PM/DM or IPAF. CYC was a better treatment in SSc, RA and pSS patients

References:

[1]Kocheril, S.V., et al.,Comparison of disease progression and mortality of connective tissue disease-related interstitial lung disease and idiopathic interstitial pneumonia.Arthritis Care & Research: Official Journal of the American College of Rheumatology, 2005.53(4): p. 549-557.

Table 1.

CYC: treatment responses of cyclophosphamide and azathiopurine regimens AZA: azathiopurine CYC: cyclophosphamide, AZA: azathiopurine CTD: connective tissue disease, SSc:Systemic Sclerosis, RA: Rheumatoid Arthritis, pSS: primary sjogren syndrome, DM/PM/ASS: Dermatomyositis / Polimyositis/Antisynthetase Syndrome, IPAF: Idiopahtic interstital fibrosis with autoimmune feautres, FVC: forced vital capacity

AZA(n:43)CYC (n:72)pProgression(overall)39,3%15,3%0,013SSc (n:47)60%11,9%0,029RA(n:16)62,5%25%>0,05pSS(n:16)71,4%11,1%0,035DM/PM/ASS(n:14)11,1%->0,05IPAF(n:20)28,6%23,1%>0,05FVC change (overall) (lt)-,129±0,7410,024±0,2490,189SSc (n:47)-0,086±1810,025±0,3510,286RA(n:16)-0,553±1,521-022±0,2620,341pSS(n:16)-0,328±0,2420,014±0,3130,167DM/PM/ASS(n:14)-0,0089±0,3700,120±0,0370,316IPAF(n:20)0,123±0,3200,120±0,1010,981FVC change (overall) (%)-1,44±10,652,41±7,550,041SSc (n:47)-3,00±3,672,23±8,270,031RA(n:16)-3,50±9,65-1,75±4,650,654pSS(n:16)-6,71±15,973,33±8,350,027DM/PM/ASS(n:14)0,00±11,854,40±2,700,313IPAF(n:20)2,06±9,045,28±6,700,380

Disclosure of Interests:

None declared

FRI0109 TEMPORAL CHANGES IN LUNG NODULES DETECTED IN INDIVIDUALS WITH RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS WITH BIOLOGIC DMARD TREATMENTS

Background:

Lung nodules in rheumatoid arthritis (RA), patients impose diagnostic and therapeutic challenges due to unpredictable outcome of these nodules. biologic (b) disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (bDMARDs) are important therapeutic agents used in treatment of RA. There is hesitation about use of conventional synthetic DMARDs (csDMARD) and bDMARDs due to increased risk of nodules although their association remains unclear. There are scarce data on lung nodules observed in RA patients and systematic studies are needed.

Objectives:

The aim of this study is to evaluate effects of biologic treatments and conventional synthetic DMARDS on pulmonary nodules observed in rheumatoid arthritis patients.

Methods:

Electronic health records of RA patients who had had thorax computed tomography (CT) confirmed lung nodules in the last 5 years were retrospectively evaluated. Pre-treatment and post-treatment follow up CT images were meticulously examined for the number, size, attenuation, calcification, and cavitary formation. Demographic features, smoking status, disease characteristics and used medications were retrieved from file records. Clinical and laboratory findings, demographic features, treatment and follow-up duration, number of solid and cavitary nodules were compared between groups.

Results:

There were 21 patients in both biologic (11 females, mean age; 59.7±8.4) and csDMARD (12 females, mean age; 71.4±8.3) treated groups. There was no difference in frequency of nodule types and sizes between csDMARD and bDMARDs groups(table) despite csDMARD users were remarkably older. Administered biologic treatments were anti-TNF-alpha in 8, tofacitinib in 7, rituximab in 4, and abatacept in 2 patients. The most common types of nodules were solid and cavitary nodules, observed in 17 and 8 patients, respectively in biologic users. Calcific nodules were present in three patients, and ground glass nodules were observed in a single patient. Nodules were multiple in 12 patients and solitary in 9 patients. Calcific and ground glass nodules were all solitary in our study. Cavitary and solid nodules were concurrent in five patients. Median follow duration was 14(5-55) months. Progression was observed in small number of patients; three patients in receiving aTNFα, and one in rituximab(figure) and one in abatacept users. Interestingly none of patients receiving tofacitinib did not show progression. There was no difference regarding number of patients who progressed with either csDMARD or bDMARDs. None of the nodules showed malignant transformation within the observation period.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, risk of progression in lung nodules with biologic treatments is seem to be low, at least not more than csDMARD in short term and any malignant transformation was not observed in our study.

References:

[1]Esposito AJ, Chu SG, Madan R, Doyle TJ, Dellaripa PF. Thoracic Manifestations of Rheumatoid Arthritis. Clin Chest Med. 2019 Sep;40(3):545-560. doi:10.1016/j.ccm.2019.05.003. Epub 2019 Jul 6. Review. PubMed PMID: 31376890.

Table.

Changes in nodule characteristics with respect to treatment groups.

csDMARDbDMARDsSOLID NODULESPre-treatmentTotal number of nodules, n7254Post-treatmentCompletely diminished, n514Regressed, n512Stable, n3320Enlarged, n234Cavitary transformation64De novo solid nodules267CAVITARY NODULESPre-treatmentTotal number of nodules1016Post-treatmentCompletely diminished, n01Regressed05Stable48Enlarged, n62Newly formed cavitary nodules69**

*number less than calculated due to cavitation,**de novo 5 nodules, 4 transformation from solid nodules

Figure.

Nodule progression in a patient receiving rituximab (white arrow)

Disclosure of Interests:

None declared

FRI0507 COLCHICINE INTOLERANCE IN FMF PATIENTS AND PRIMARY OBSTACLES FOR OPTIMAL DOSING

Background:

Colchicine is the mainstay of treatment in FMF. However, in daily practice it is not easy to maintain effective colchicine doses in substantial number of patients, due to its side effects.

Objectives:

It was aimed to investigate prevalence and risk factors for colchicine side effects that limit optimal drug dosing and permanent discontinuation.

Methods:

All patients were recruited from “FMF in Central Anatolia” (FiCA) cohort, 915 adult subjects with minimum follow up time of 6 months and had compliance of treatment were included. Demographic and anthropometric data, FMF disease characteristics, disease severity, complications and treatment features were recorded on a web based registry. Prevalence of colchicine intolerance and characteristics of intolerant patients were analyzed.

Results:

Effective colchicine doses cannot be maintained in 172 (18.7%) subjects. Main side effects that limit optimal dosing were as follows; diarrhea in 99 (10.8%), elevation in transaminases in 54 (5.9%), leukopenia in 10 (%1.1), renal impairment in 14 (1.3%), myopathy in 5 (0.5%) and allergic skin reaction in two. Colchicine had to be permanently ceased in 18 (2%) patients because of serious toxicity. Male gender and obesity were found to be associated with liver toxicity and having normal body weight was associated with diarrhea. Chronic inflammation and proteinuria were more common in colchicine intolerant patients and they had reported more frequent attacks compared to those tolerating optimal doses.

Conclusion:

Colchicine intolerance is an important problem in daily clinical practice, mainly due to diarrhea and liver toxicity. Suboptimal colchicine dosing associated with complications.

References:

[1] Sönmez, H.E., E.D. Batu, and S. Özen,Familial Mediterranean fever: current perspectives.Journal of inflammation research, 2016.9: p. 13.

[2] Sari, İ., M. Birlik, and T. Kasifoğlu,Familial Mediterranean fever: an updated review.European journal of rheumatology, 2014.1(1): p. 21.

[3] Ozen, S., et al.,EULAR recommendations for the management of familial Mediterranean fever.Annals of the rheumatic diseases, 2016.75(4): p. 644-651.

Table 1.

Prevalence of all side effects of colchicine and reasons for drug discontinuation

Side effectAll side effectsN=172*Permanent cessationN=18*Diarrhea9911Liver toxicity544Leukopenia101Muscle toxicity52Skin reaction2-Nausea4-Infertility2-

* some patients had more than one clinically significant side effect

Table 2.

Disease course in colchicine tolerant and intolerant patients

Colchicine TolerantN=743Colchicine IntolerantN=172p valueChronic inflammation115 (15.4%)45 (26.1%)<0.001Number of attacks in the last year4.05±6.087.60±9.6<0.001Proteinuria44 (5.9 %)20 (11.6%)0.025Amyloidosis33 (% 4.4)23 (13.3%)<0.001ADDI (median)1 (1)1 (1)<0.001

ADDI: auto-inflammatory disease damage index, FMF: familial Mediterranean fever

Disclosure of Interests:

Hasan Satiş: None declared, Berkan Armagan: None declared, Erdal Bodakci: None declared, Nuh Atas: None declared, Alper Sari: None declared, Dilek Yapar: None declared, Nazife Sule Yasar Bilge: None declared, reyhan bilici salman: None declared, Gözde Kübra Yardimci: None declared, Hakan Babaoglu: None declared, Levent Kiliç: None declared, mehmet akif ozturk: None declared, Berna Goker: None declared, seminur haznedaroglu: None declared, Umut Kalyoncu Consultant of: Abbvie, Amgen, Janssen, Lilly, Novartis, UCB, Timuçin Kaşifoğlu: None declared, abdurrahman tufan: None declared

AB0743 DISEASE CHARACTERISTICS OF PSORIATIC ARTHRITIS PATIENTS MAY DIFFER ACCORDING TO AGE AT PSORIASIS ONSET: CROSS-SECTIONAL ANALYSIS OF PSORIATIC ARTHRITIS-INTERNATIONAL DATABASE

Background:

Psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis (PsA) are heterogenous diseases with various disease manifestations and phenotypes. Psoriasis has a bimodal age of onset being early (before the age of 40, type 1) and late. The impact of this classification on the PsA features is not well understood.

Objectives:

To compare the PsA characteristics of patients with early- and late-onset psoriasis in a large, multicenter database

Methods:

PSART-ID (Psoriatic Arthritis-International Database) is a prospective, multicenter web-based registry (www.trials-network.org) of patients with PsA. A detailed data collection was performed including demographics (sex, age, duration of education, smoking status, BMI), skin features (psoriasis onset date, type, initially involved site of skin, nail involvement (ever) and family history) and PsA characteristics (type of articular involvement and presence of axial, dactylitis (ever), enthesitis (ever), family history) and indices for disease activity and function (DAPSA, Leeds enthesitis index, BASDAI, BASFI, patient and physician global assessment, pain, HAQ-DI). We grouped according to the age at psoriasis onset (early onset, psoriasis before the age of 40 (EOPsO); late-onset, psoriasis after the age of 40 (LOPsO)), patient and disease characteristics of the groups were compared (1). Due to the differences among groups, following adjustments weer made: BMI for age, nail involvement for PsO disease duration, axial PsA for PsA disease duration.

Results:

A total of 1634 (62.8% females; EOPsO, 1108 (67.8%); LOPsO, 526 (32.2%)) patients with PsA was recruited. Rate of over-weight patients was higher in LOPsO group (66.8% vs. 86.8%, p<0.001; adjusted for age - aOR 1.55 (1.11-2.20; % 95 CI)). The EOPsO group had the scalp involvement as the initial site of skin disease more often than the LOPsO group (56.7% vs. 43.0%, p<0.001), whereas extremity involvement was more frequent as the initial finding in the LOPsO group (EOPsO vs. LOPsO 63.8% vs. 74.2%, p<0.001). Nail involvement (ever) was more prominent in EOPsO group, however, the significance was disappeared when adjusted for psoriasis duration. Interaction between gender and both axial disease and psoriatic disease family history were found (axial disease in man; EOPsO vs LOPsO; 38.0% vs. 25.4%; p=0.005; adjusted for PsA duration - aOR 0.56 (0.38-0.84; %95 CI) // psoriatic disease family history in females; EOPsO vs LOPsO; 39.5% vs. 30.1%; p=0.003; OR 0.65 (0.50-0.86; %95 CI)). Duration between PsO and PsA was significantly longer in EOPsO group (148 vs. 24 months, p<0.001). In EOPsO group, more patients had PsO preceeding PsA than LOPsO group (81.8% vs. 60.6%, p<0.001), however, synchronous disease -defined as the diagnosis of PsO and PsA within the same year- was more common in LOPsO group (16.6% vs. 30.3%, p<0.001) (Table 1). Psoriatic disease activity parameters, patient and physician reported outcomes and HAQ-DI scores were similar in both groups.

Table 1.

Comparison of psoriatic arthritis patients‘ characteristics according to age at psoriasis onset

Conclusion:

Clinical features of PsA may be affected by the age at the onset of psoriasis. As the genetic background is different in early and late-onset psoriasis, this may suggest a different pathogenetic mechanism based on the psoriasis phenotype, also affecting the PsA features. Further prospective studies are needed to define whether the classification of PsA requires including psoriasis phenotypes as well.

References:

[1]Henseler T, Christophers E. Psoriasis of early and late onset: characterization of two types of psoriasis vulgaris. J Am Acad Dermatol. 1985;13(3):450-6.

Disclosure of Interests:

Emre Bilgin: None declared, Özün Bayindir: None declared, esen kasapoğlu: None declared, Sibel Bakirci: None declared, Dilek Solmaz: None declared, Gezmiş Kimyon: None declared, Atalay Doğru: None declared, Ediz Dalkiliç: None declared, Cem Özişler: None declared, Meryem Can: None declared, Servet Akar: None declared, Emine Figen Tarhan: None declared, Şule Yavuz: None declared, Levent Kiliç: None declared, Orhan Küçükşahin: None declared, Ahmet Omma: None declared, Emel Gönüllü: None declared, Fatih Yildiz: None declared, Duygu Ersözlü: None declared, abdurrahman tufan: None declared, Muhammet Çinar: None declared, Abdulsamet Erden: None declared, Sema Yilmaz: None declared, Seval Pehlevan: None declared, Tuncay Duruöz: None declared, Sibel Aydin: None declared, Umut Kalyoncu Consultant of: Abbvie, Amgen, Janssen, Lilly, Novartis, UCB

AB0761 DEMOGRAPHIC AND CLINICAL FEATURES OF JUVENILE-ONSET PSORIATIC ARTHRITIS: RESULTS FROM PsART-ID REGISTRY

Background:

Although psoriatic arthritis (PsA) may be seen at any decades, juvenil onset PsA is relatively rare. Moreover, there were no more data about clinical features, treatments, and course in juvenile PsA when they reached to adult age.

Objectives:

The objective of this study was to assess and compare demographic and clinical features for juvenile onset PsA and adult onset PsA.

Methods:

PsART-ID is a multicenter, international database, investigating the disease characteristic in real life (1). Briefly, demographic data, PsA subtypes, uveitis, enthesitis, dactylitis, Co-morbidities, disease activity scores (TJC, SJC, VAS-pain, VAS patients and physician global assessments, VAS-fatigue, BASDAI), and functional status (HAQ-DI, BASFI) were recorded. Psoriasis and PsA starting age were noted, as well. Patients were classified as juvenile PsA or juvenile PsO (under 18 years old). Results were compared regarding to juvenile versus adult onset age.

Results:

Overall, 1644 PsA patients were included to study, 301/1644 (18.3%) patients had juvenile onset psoriasis. Of 39/1644 (2.4%) patients had juvenile onset PsA, as well. As expected, juvenile onset PsA patients were younger, however PsA disease duration were longer than adult onset PsA patients. There were no any difference between demographic and clinical data, except BMI and enthesitis were less frequently at the juvenile onset PsA groups. Although, ever csDMARD using were similar between two groups, however, juvenile onset PsA patients were used more frequently bDMARDs.

Table.

Comparison of demographic and clinical characteristics of juvenile and adult-onset psoriatic arthritis

Juvenile onsetAdult onsetpN (%)39 (2.4)1605 (97.6)Female Sex n (%)24 (61.5)1006 (62.7)0.884PsA beginning age mean (SD)13.3 ± 3.8542.3 ± 12.9<0.001Current age mean (SD)26.6 ±10.747.3 ±13.07<0.001Duration of psoriasis (years)17.10 ± 11.2614.75 ± 11.780.124Duration of psoriatic arthritis (years)13.5 ±115.06 ± 6.7<0.001Cigarette smoking (ever) n (%)15/38641/14940.72Education duration/year (mean,SD)10.09 ± 3.679.52 ± 4.810.464BMI (kg/m2) (mean, SD)24.5 ±5.128.3 ± 5.21<0.001Family history of PsO/PsA n (%)15 (38.5)559 (34.9)0.642Nail involvement n (%)18 (46.2)762 (47.5)0.864Dactilitis n (%)9 (23.7)367 (24)0.958Entesitis n (%)3 (7.9)384 (25.7)0.013Uveitis n (%)-13 (4.3)0.713Axial involvement (%)15 (38.5)464 (29)0.199Methotrexate36 (92.3)1348 (84)0.162Sulfasalazine17 (43.6)612 (38.1)0.488Leflunomide14 (35.9)379 (23.6)0.076Biologic DMARDs102 (33.9)358 (26.8)0.013

Conclusion:

Although psoriasis may be seen frequently in the juvenile age, juvenile onset PsA was not so frequent in our PsA cohort. Although, ever csDMARD using were similar between two groups, however, juvenile onset PsA patients were used bDMARDs more frequently.

References:

[1]Kalyoncu U et al. The Psoriatic Arthritis Registry of Turkey: results of a multicenter registry on 1081 patients. Rheumatology. 2017;56:279-286.

Disclosure of Interests:

Serpil ERGULU EŞMEN: None declared, Ozun Bayindir: None declared, esen kasapoğlu: None declared, Sibel Bakirci: None declared, Dilek Solmaz: None declared, Gezmiş Kimyon: None declared, Atalay Doğru: None declared, Ediz Dalkiliç: None declared, Cem Özişler: None declared, Meryem Can: None declared, Servet Akar: None declared, Emine Figen Tarhan: None declared, Sule Yavuz: None declared, Levent Kiliç: None declared, Orhan Küçükşahin: None declared, Ahmet Omma: None declared, Emel Gönüllü: None declared, Fatih Yildiz: None declared, Duygu Ersözlü: None declared, abdurrahman tufan: None declared, Muhammet Çinar: None declared, Abdulsamet Erden: None declared, Sema Yilmaz: None declared, Seval Pehlevan: None declared, Mehmet Tuncay Duruöz: None declared, Sibel Aydin: None declared, Umut Kalyoncu Consultant of: Abbvie, Amgen, Janssen, Lilly, Novartis, UCB

SAT0509 MYCOPHENOLATE MOFETIL VERSUS AZATHIOPURINE FOR THE MAINTENANCE TREATMENT OF CONNECTIVE-TISSUE RELATED INTERSTITIAL LUNG DISEASE FOLLOWING CYCLOPHOSPHAMIDE TREATMENT

Background:

Cyclophosphamide (CYC) had a good response rates when used as an induction regimen for the treatment of connective tissue related interstitial lung disease (CTD-ILD). But the safety profile of CYC necessitates the usage of a second line treatment for maintenance

Objectives:

To compare the effect of mycophonetil (MMF) and azatiyopurin (AZA) for maintanance therapy following cyclophsphomide treatment in CTD-ILD

Methods:

Between 2009 and 2019 all interstitial lung disease patients admitting rheumatology or pulmonology department were retrospectively evaluated and patients treated with cyclophospamide as an induction regimen and having not progression were selected. Among those, as a second line regimen treated with MMF or AZA were included. Primary end point was treatment responses at 6th months

Results:

68 patients treated with CYC for the first line treatment. 46 patients treated with either MMF (n:22) or AZA (n:24) for the maintenance. Scleroderma patients were the largest group and consituted 63% of the population. MMF group had worse FVC values and more involvement in lung paranchyme at the begining of the treatment. In univariate analysis FVC (lt) values and lung involvement (%) on HRCT at the start of the treatment, and disease subtype were associated significantly with treatment responses.After adjusted with these factors, in multivariate analysis, AZA treatment was associated with the increased risk of progression (odds ratio 5,8, 95% CI 1,061-31,09) as compared with MMF treatment

Conclusion:

MMF had better results compared to AZA in the treatment of CTD-ILD,after the usage of CYC treatment.

References:

[1]Barnes, H., et al.,Cyclophosphamide for connective tissue disease-associated interstitial lung disease.Cochrane Database Syst Rev, 2018.1(1): p. Cd010908.

Table 1.

Patient and disease characteristics at the start of the treatment and treatment responses at the 6th months of the treatment: FVC forced vital capacity

MMF (22)AZA (24)pLung involvement (%)36%23,3%0,022FVC (lt)1,962,550,021FVC (%)71%81%<0,001FVC change at 6th month (lt)-,02-0,190,051FVC change at 6th month (%)-0,42-5,810,068Progression23,8%50%0,118

Disclosure of Interests:

None declared

Frequency, characteristics, and clinical determinants of 'prodrome' in familial Mediterranean fever patients

Objective: Prodrome is defined by manifestations that precede a familial Mediterranean fever (FMF) attack and predict its emergence. We aimed to determine the frequency, characteristics, and clinical determinants of prodrome in patients with FMF.Method: This cross-sectional study was conducted in a tertiary rheumatology clinic. During the clinical interview, all patients completed a standardized questionnaire about the pre-attack period. Prodrome was defined as the presence of any recurrent pre-attack manifestation occurring at least 4 h before an attack. Patients were classified according to whether they had prodrome of any kind of attack.Results: The study enrolled 401 patients aged 37.7 ± 11.0 years (mean ± sd). Male gender, M694V/M694V, homozygous MEFV mutation, peritonitis, pleuritis, and arthritis were more frequent in prodrome-positive patients. Altogether, 141 patients (35.2%) had prodrome. Male gender and ever having attack types of peritonitis or arthritis were independent clinical determinants of prodrome [relative risk (95% confidence interval): 1.72 (1.07-2.76), p = 0.02; 4.27 (1.80-10.1), p = 0.001; 1.77 (1.04-3.04), p = 0.04, respectively]. Age, MEFV mutations, pleuritis, and erysipelas-like erythema were not clinical determinants.Conclusions: All FMF patients, particularly males and patients who had peritonitis or arthritis at any time, should be questioned about prodrome. Prodrome should be analysed in terms of elucidating the pathogenesis of FMF and as an opportunity for a secondary prevention strategy for impending attacks. This study may shed light on prodrome for future cytokine or drug studies with the purpose of developing new cost-effective treatment protocols irrespective of colchicine resistance.

Metastatic Gallbladder Carcinoma in Meningioma: A Case Report

Metastases from tumors to systemic cancers are rare. The most common intracranial recipient tumor is meningioma. Metastasis from gallbladder cancer has been previously reported from only one patient during autopsy. We present a case of a 72-year-old woman who underwent surgery for right frontal skull base meningioma. The tumor was completely removed. Histological specimens showed gallbladder carcinomatous metastasis with diffuse neuroendocrine differentiation in meningothelial meningioma. The Ki-67 proliferation index of the meningioma was 3%. Further, 60% positive immunoreactivity with the progesterone receptor was observed in meningioma cells. In carcinoma cells, diffuse positive immunoreactivity with chromogranin, CDX2, CEA, panCK, cytokeratin 7, and synaptophysin was observed. A combination of molecular, metabolic, immunological, and/or hormonal factors may contribute to the pathogenesis of this lesion. It cannot be ruled out that it is more common than expected.

Chronic inflammation in adult familial Mediterranean fever patients: underlying causes and association with amyloidosis

Background: Chronic inflammation, as determined by persistently elevated acute-phase reactants in attack-free periods, can occasionally be observed in patients with familial Mediterranean fever (FMF) and is suggested to be a risk factor for the development of amyloidosis. We aimed to investigate the underlying causes of chronic inflammation in FMF patients and its association with amyloidosis in long-term follow-up. Method: Electronic medical records of FMF patients who had regular follow-up for ≥ 5 years in our cohort were utilized. As part of routine evaluation, detailed history, physical examination, and pertinent laboratory and radiographic investigations were performed in all patients to determine potential causes of elevated C-reactive protein (CRP) levels. Results: The study included 146 FMF patients who had no evidence of amyloidosis at baseline and had regular follow-up for ≥ 5 years. Thirty-seven patients (25.3%) were found to have chronic inflammation in the disease course. Twenty-five (67.5%) of them had either very frequent attacks or chronic manifestations of disease. In the entire study group, amyloidosis developed in five patients (3.42%) during the 5 year follow-up, four in the FMF with chronic inflammation group (10.8%), and only one of the 109 patients without chronic inflammation (odds ratio 13.09, 95% confidence interval 1.41-121.2). Conclusions: The results suggest that persistently high CRP levels during the attack-free periods may be a strong risk factor for the development of amyloidosis in patients with FMF. The vast majority of FMF patients with chronic inflammation had active FMF.

Television Tip-Over Related Head Injuries: A Particular Type of Child Neglect

AIM

To identify, report, and raise awareness of the risk factors for television (TV) tip-over.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

In total, 86 children who were brought to the emergency service and hospitalized at the neurosurgery clinic because of TV tip-over-related head trauma between August 2011 and August 2016 were included in the study.

RESULTS

The 86 patients consisted of 47 males and 39 females. The mean age was 38.8 ± 19.5 (9â€"102) months. Low education level of the mother was a risk factor for this type of accident (p=0.009). In all the patients, injuries were caused by the tip-over of a cathode ray tube (CRT) TV. In 66 patients (77%), only the TV tipped over onto the child, whereas in 20 cases (23%), the TV tipped over with the TV stand. The TVs were not fixed to the stand or the wall in any of the homes. According to computerized tomography findings, 12 patients (13.9%) had intracranial hemorrhage and 19 patients (22%) had skull fractures. Five patients underwent neurosurgical intervention. Eighty-four patients (97.6%) were discharged with a GCS level of 15. One patient was discharged with a GCS level of 9/15 with a tracheostomy and nasogastric tube. One patient died.

CONCLUSION

TV tip-over causes physical injury that may result in serious neurological damage and even death. It is becoming more common and may be prevented by taking simple precautions.

Effects of alpha lipoic acid on motor function and antioxidant enzyme activity of nerve tissue after sciatic nerve crush injury in rats

AIM

Background: Alpha lipoic acid (ALA) that is a strong antioxidant drug is tried for both protection and treatment of various diseases of central and peripheral nervous systems.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Material and Methods: Protective effects of ALA on crush type peripheral nerve injury were evaluated. 28 Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into four groups: In Group 1, sciatic nerve was only explored. Sciatic nerve crush injury was performed after serum physiologic injection intraperitoneally in Group 2, and after ALA injection in Groups 3 and 4. In all subjects, Sciatic Functional Index (SFI) was calculated. All subjects were sacrificed 1 hour after injury in first three groups, and 48 hours after in Group 4. Nerve samples were taken. Superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase activities were measured in nerve tissue.

RESULTS

Results: Administration of ALA before injury provided significantly better SFI values and higher levels of antioxidant enzymes than control group. These effects were significantly prominent 48 hours after injury.

CONCLUSION

Conclusion: ALA that was given before crush type peripheral nerve injury provided to decrease damage of the nerve. Specific mechanisms of this effect must be clarified and must be shown that it is whether effective when it is given after injury or not.

Use and modifications of cervical and upper thoracic laminar screws in posterior stabilization

AIM

Laminar screw technique is used to stabilize C2 and other levels when other techniques cannot be performed.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The patients underwent laminar screws at cervical and upper thoracic levels in our clinic during 5 yearswere evaluated retrospectively.

RESULTS

In 25 patients, 6 to 82 years old,total 54 laminar screws were used. Most frequent diagnoses were cervical spinal stenosis and craniovertebraljunction anomalies.There were handicaps to perform other type of screwsin 19 out of 25 screws during first 4 years, and 9 out of 29 in the last year (p=0.0009).Two modifications were performed in some cases. In 4 segments with thin lamina, a shorter screw was performed to leave clear the thinnest part, and in 3 C2 levels with almost full length bifid spinous process,shorter screws were inserted from medial sides of the bifid processes with a more vertical orientation. There was ventral cortex penetration in 11 screws without new neurological deficits. One of them was removed because of its full thickness insertion into the spinal canal.Fusion rate was 75% in 16 patients followed radiologically longer than 6 months.In one patient out of 4 without fusion, unilateral screw was loosened, and in others laminar screws were not loosened.

CONCLUSION

Laminar screw technique is easy, safe and effective at C2, C7 and upper thoracic levels. Some modifications may be required due to the anatomical variations.It can be used at other subaxial levels also in theselected cases that other techniques could not be performed.

Risk Factors and Compression and Kyphosis Rates after 1 Year in Patients with AO type A Thoracic, Thoracolumbar, and Lumbar Fractures Treated Conservatively

AIM

Conservative treatment is a frequently used treatment modality for traumatic thoracolumbar fractures. However, not many studies evaluating radiological and clinical results of conservative treatment are found. The aim of this study was to determine the risk factors, and compression and kyphosis rates after 1 year in patients with AO type A thoracic, thoracolumbar, and lumbar fractures treated conservatively.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Radiological and clinical results of 79 thoracolumbar fractures in 57 patients, who were treated conservatively, were evaluated one year after trauma. Fractures were classified according to thoracolumbar injury classification and severity (TLICS) score and AO spinal trauma classification system. Compression rate, wedge and kyphosis angles, and sagittal index were calculated in early and late periods after trauma.

RESULTS

Female/male ratio was 25/32, and mean age was 41.7±16.7 years. They were followed for 15.2±4.9 months. Mean compression rates were 19.6% and 25.2%; wedge angles were 10.1 and 12.7 degrees; kyphosis angles were 5.82 and 8.9 degrees; and sagittal indexes were 8.01 and 10.13 in all patients just after trauma and after one year, respectively. Fractures in older patients ( > 60 years of age) and in patients with osteopenia or osteoporosis, located in the thoracolumbar junction, AO type A2 and A3 fractures, and solitary fractures had higher compression and kyphosis rates at last follow-up.

CONCLUSION

Early mobilization without bed rest for stable thoracolumbar fractures according to the TLICS system is a good treatment option, and radiological and clinical results are usually acceptable. However, fractures in patients older than 60 years, those with osteoporosis or osteopenia, fractures located in the thoracolumbar junction, solitary fractures, and fractures in AO type A2 or A3, are more inclined to increase in compression and kyphosis and may require a closer follow-up.