Management and treatment of children, young people and adults with systemic lupus erythematosus: British Society for Rheumatology guideline scope

The objective of this guideline is to provide up-to-date, evidence-based recommendations for the management of SLE that builds upon the existing treatment guideline for adults living with SLE published in 2017. This will incorporate advances in the assessment, diagnosis, monitoring, non-pharmacological and pharmacological management of SLE. General approaches to management as well as organ-specific treatment, including lupus nephritis and cutaneous lupus, will be covered. This will be the first guideline in SLE using a whole life course approach from childhood through adolescence and adulthood. The guideline will be developed with people with SLE as an important target audience in addition to healthcare professionals. It will include guidance related to emerging approved therapies and account for National Institute for Health and Care Excellence Technology Appraisals, National Health Service England clinical commissioning policies and national guidance relevant to SLE. The guideline will be developed using the methods and rigorous processes outlined in 'Creating Clinical Guidelines: Our Protocol' by the British Society for Rheumatology.

Panel sequencing links rare, likely damaging gene variants with distinct clinical phenotypes and outcomes in juvenile-onset SLE

OBJECTIVES

Juvenile-onset systemic lupus erythematosus (jSLE) affects 15-20% of lupus patients. Clinical heterogeneity between racial groups, age groups and individual patients suggests variable pathophysiology. This study aimed to identify highly penetrant damaging mutations in genes associated with SLE/SLE-like disease in a large national cohort (UK JSLE Cohort Study) and compare demographic, clinical and laboratory features in patient sub-cohorts with 'genetic' SLE vs remaining SLE patients.

METHODS

Based on a sequencing panel designed in 2018, target enrichment and next-generation sequencing were performed in 348 patients to identify damaging gene variants. Findings were integrated with demographic, clinical and treatment related datasets.

RESULTS

Damaging gene variants were identified in ∼3.5% of jSLE patients. When compared with the remaining cohort, 'genetic' SLE affected younger children and more Black African/Caribbean patients. 'Genetic' SLE patients exhibited less organ involvement and damage, and neuropsychiatric involvement developed over time. Less aggressive first line treatment was chosen in 'genetic' SLE patients, but more second and third line agents were used. 'Genetic' SLE associated with anti-dsDNA antibody positivity at diagnosis and reduced ANA, anti-LA and anti-Sm antibody positivity at last visit.

CONCLUSION

Approximately 3.5% of jSLE patients present damaging gene variants associated with younger age at onset, and distinct clinical features. As less commonly observed after treatment induction, in 'genetic' SLE, autoantibody positivity may be the result of tissue damage and explain reduced immune complex-mediated renal and haematological involvement. Routine sequencing could allow for patient stratification, risk assessment and target-directed treatment, thereby increasing efficacy and reducing toxicity.

Chronic non-bacterial osteomyelitis (CNO) in childhood: a review

Chronic non-bacterial osteomyelitis (CNO) is an autoinflammatory bone disorder mostly affecting children and adolescents. Although it is considered a rare disease, CNO is likely to be the single most common autoinflammatory bone disease in childhood, underdiagnosed and underreported due to a lack of awareness of the condition in both medics and patients, and the absence of validated diagnostic criteria. The exact underlying pathogenesis of CNO remains unknown, making targeted treatment difficult. This issue is exacerbated by the lack of any randomised control trials, meaning that treatment strategies are based solely on retrospective reviews and case series. This review summarises the current concepts in pathophysiology, the clinical features that help to differentiate important differential diagnoses, and an approach to the investigation and management of children with CNO. Ultimately, the timely and thorough investigation of children and young people with CNO is vitally important to exclude important mimics and initiate appropriate management that can prevent the complications of persistent inflammatory bone disease.

OA33 Incidence of chronic recurrent multifocal osteomyelitis in the UK and Republic of Ireland: initial results from 13 months of surveillance study

Introduction/Background

Chronic Recurrent Multifocal Osteomyelitis (CRMO), also known as chronic nonbacterial osteomyelitis (CNO), is a rare autoinflammatory condition affecting the bones. It occurs primarily in children and teenagers and is characterised by bone pain and swelling in the absence of infection or tumour. The incidence of CRMO remains uncertain, with estimates ranging from 0.4-1 per 100,000 person years.

Description/Method

The primary aim of the study was to identify the incidence of CRMO in patients under the age of 16 in the United Kingdom (UK) and Republic of Ireland (ROI). Additional aims include describing the demographics, clinical features, treatment, and healthcare needs of patients with CRMO. A prospective surveillance study was undertaken via the British Paediatric Surveillance Unit. A monthly e-reporting card was sent to all registered paediatric consultants in the UK and ROI. A parallel surveillance study was sent via the British Society for Children’s Orthopaedics to identify patients managed solely by orthopaedics. A standardised questionnaire was sent to the reporting clinicians to collect further information.

Discussion/Results

During initial 13 months of surveillance, 168 cases were reported. 23 questionnaires were not returned (13.7% of reported cases). After de-duplication, and removal of cases outside the reporting time period and age-group, 82 confirmed and 8 probable cases were included in these interim results. The estimated incidence of CRMO is 0.605 cases/100,000 children per year.

Median age at time of diagnosis was 10 years (range 3-16). 53 (58.9%) of cases were female. Median delay from symptom onset to diagnosis was 5 months and 16 patients (17.78%) had a delay of greater than 12 months. Most (48.9%) of the cases were diagnosed by paediatric rheumatology specialists. Other cases were diagnosed by orthopaedics (16.7%), general paediatricians (15.6%) or by a multidisciplinary team. 34 cases (37.8%) reported requiring hospital admission related to CRMO.

The most common presenting feature was bone pain (96.67%). 34 patients (37.8%) presented with clavicular pain, and thirty-one (34.4%) had unifocal bone pain. Patients also presented with bone swelling (52.2%), joint swelling (20.0%), fever (12.2%) and general malaise (13.3%). A median of 3 radiological investigations were reported for each case, of which 61 (67.7%) cases had whole body MRI performed. Additionally, 33 cases (36.67%) had bone biopsy. At initial reporting, the most common treatment was NSAIDs (90.0%) and bisphosphonates (33.3%).

Key learning points/Conclusion

Our results estimate the incidence of CRMO as 0.605 cases per 100,000 person years. The study will continue to capture new CRMO cases for a further 12 months. Reported cases will be followed up for 24 months. This prospective study of all incident cases of CRMO within the UK and ROI will provide insight into the medium-term outcomes and treatment strategies used by clinicians. These results will provide a valuable baseline for further research and improvement in care for patients with CRMO.

Real world treatment of juvenile-onset systemic lupus erythematosus: Data from the UK JSLE cohort study

BACKGROUND

In the absence of clinical trials evidence, Juvenile-onset Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (JSLE) treatment plans vary.

AIM

To explore 'real world' treatment utilising longitudinal UK JSLE Cohort Study data.

METHODS

Data collected between 07/2009-05/2020 was used to explore the choice/sequence of immunomodulating drugs from diagnosis. Multivariate logistic regression determined how organ-domain involvement (pBILAG-2004) impacted treatment choice.

RESULT

349 patients met inclusion criteria, median follow-up 4-years (IQR:2,6). Mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) was most commonly used for the majority of organ-domains, and significantly associated with renal involvement (OR:1.99, 95% CI:1.65-2.41, pc < 0.01). Analyses assessing the sequence of immunomodulators focused on 197/349 patients (meeting relevant inclusion/exclusion criteria). 10/197 (5%) solely recieved hydroxychloroquine/prednisolone, 62/197 (31%) received a single-immunomodulator, 69/197 (36%) received two, and 36/197 patients (28%) received ≥three immunomodulators. The most common first and second line immunomodulator was MMF. Rituximab was the most common third-line immunomodulator.

CONCLUSIONS

Most UK JSLE patients required ≥two immunomodulators, with MMF used most commonly.

Hodgkin Lymphoma Presenting With Spinal Cord Compression: Challenges for Diagnosis and Initial Management

Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) can present with extra-nodal disease, but spinal cord compression is exceptionally rare. We describe a 15-year-old presenting with hip/back pain with normal initial examination. Persistent pain and raised inflammatory markers prompted further investigation with MRI, which revealed an epidural mass causing spinal cord compression. On examination, there was no palpable lymphadenopathy or cauda equina syndrome, but absent lower limb reflexes were noted. Following multidisciplinary discussion, it was determined that cauda equina syndrome was imminent and therefore surgical debulking was undertaken, both to prevent this complication and establish a diagnosis. At surgery, the tumor was highly vascular. Frozen section confirmed lesional material. Following surgery, and given the frozen section findings, a short course of steroids was commenced to reduce any peri-surgical edema. Unfortunately, histopathology was ultimately non-diagnostic, due to failure of immunohistochemistry on technically challenging material. Consequently, ultrasound-guided excision biopsy of a (non-palpable) cervical lymph node was performed five days later; histopathology showed typical effacement of the normal architecture and a conspicuous population of CD15/CD30-positive larger pale cells present, confirming nodular sclerosis classic HL, despite recent steroids. We review the available literature for HL presenting with spinal cord compression and describe the challenges for diagnosis and initial management in such cases.

Attainment of Low Disease Activity and Remission Targets reduces the risk of severe flare and new damage in Childhood Lupus

Objectives

To assess the achievability and effect of attaining low disease activity (LDA) or remission in childhood-onset SLE (cSLE).

Methods

Attainment of three adult-SLE derived definitions of LDA (LLDAS, LA, Toronto-LDA), and four definitions of remission (clinical-SLEDAI-defined remission on/off treatment, pBILAG-defined remission on/off treatment) was assessed in UK JSLE Cohort Study patients longitudinally. Prentice–Williams–Petersen gap recurrent event models assessed the impact of LDA/remission attainment on severe flare/new damage.

Results

LLDAS, LA and Toronto-LDA targets were reached in 67%, 73% and 32% of patients, after a median of 18, 15 or 17 months, respectively. Cumulatively, LLDAS, LA and Toronto-LDA was attained for a median of 23%, 31% and 19% of total follow-up-time, respectively. Remission on-treatment was more common (61% cSLEDAI-defined, 42% pBILAG-defined) than remission off-treatment (31% cSLEDAI-defined, 21% pBILAG-defined). Attainment of all target states, and disease duration (>1 year), significantly reduced the hazard of severe flare (P < 0.001). As cumulative time in each target increased, hazard of severe flare progressively reduced. LLDAS attainment reduced the hazard of severe flare more than LA or Toronto-LDA (P < 0.001). Attainment of LLDAS and all remission definitions led to a statistically comparable reduction in the hazards of severe flare (P > 0.05). Attainment of all targets reduced the hazards of new damage (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

This is the first study demonstrating that adult-SLE-derived definitions of LDA/remission are achievable in cSLE, significantly reducing risk of severe flare/new damage. Of the LDA definitions, LLDAS performed best, leading to a statistically comparable reduction in the hazards of severe flare to attainment of clinical remission.

Limited sensitivity and specificity of the ACR/EULAR-2019 classification criteria for SLE in JSLE?-observations from the UK JSLE Cohort Study

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to test the performance of the new ACR and EULAR criteria, that include ANA positivity as entry criterion, in JSLE.

METHODS

Performance of the ACR/EULAR-2019 criteria were compared with Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics (SLICC-2012), using data from children and young people (CYP) in the UK JSLE Cohort Study (n = 482), with the ACR-1997 criteria used as reference standard. An unselected cohort of CYP positive for ANA (n = 129) was used to calculate positive/negative predictive values of the criteria.

RESULTS

At both first and last visits, the number of patients fulfilling the different classification criteria varied significantly (P < 0.001). The sensitivity of the SLICC-2012 criteria was higher when compared with that of the ACR/EULAR-2019 criteria at first and last visits (98% vs 94% for first visit, and 98% vs 96% for last visit; P < 0.001), when all available CYP were considered. The ACR/EULAR-2019 criteria were more specific when compared with the SLICC-2012 criteria (77% vs 67% for first visit, and 81% vs 71% for last visit; P < 0.001). Significant differences between the classification criteria were mainly caused by the variation in ANA positivity across ages. In the unselected cohort of ANA-positive CYP, the ACR/EULAR-2019 criteria produced the highest false-positive classification (6/129, 5%).

CONCLUSION

In CYP, the ACR/EULAR-2019 criteria are not superior to those of the SLICC-2012 or ACR-1997 criteria. If classification criteria are designed to include CYP and adult populations, paediatric rheumatologists should be included in the consensus and evaluation process, as seemingly minor changes can significantly affect outcomes.

P15 A Juvenile idiopathic arthritis mimic

Case report - Introduction

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is a diagnosis of exclusion. In a paediatric rheumatology clinic, children can present with signs and symptoms that don’t quite fit under the umbrella of JIA. When these cases present it is important that we take a thorough history and examination, and investigate as appropriate, with continual assessment to check progress and review response to treatment. This case highlights the importance of this practise, in turn enabling the correct diagnosis to be reached. This allows for more appropriate treatment choices and more specific counselling for child and family with regards to the condition and expected prognosis.

Case report - Case description

A 7-year-old girl was referred for paediatric rheumatology review with a 3-week history of inability to close her hands properly, and pain and swelling in hands and feet. There had been no preceding illness, trauma, or tick bites. There was no history of associated fever, rash, mouth ulcers or eye symptoms. She complained of central abdominal pain with associated constipation. Her appetite and weight were stable. No significant PMH. FHx brother - JIA.

On assessment, systems exam was unremarkable. Her skin was soft with no erythema. It did not appear thickened or shiny, but there was bilateral pitting oedema to just below both knees. On musculoskeletal assessment there was notable dorsal swelling of both hands, with significant restriction of both wrists. There was pain, swelling and restriction of the fingers, elbows, knees, ankles and toes. Her neck and shoulder movements were also restricted.

Limited summary of investigation

An USS was performed of affected joints which showed poly-articular synovitis and tenosynovitis. There was no documented fasciitis. She was treated with three-days IV methylprednisolone (30mg/kg) and discharged on a weaning course of prednisolone.

She was reviewed 3-weeks later. She was functioning better but reported on-going abdominal pain and that her arms looked thicker. The skin on her arms appeared thickened. She was unable to make a claw or fully extend fingers. Her wrists were restricted with visible wrist flexor tendons. Her pitting oedema had improved. Her inflammatory markers were normal. She proceeded to have an MRI of her right hand/wrist which confirmed a diagnosis of eosinophilic fasciitis and tenosynovitis.

Case report - Discussion

Following initial assessment, this 7-year-old girl was found to have significant inflammatory arthritis and tenosynovitis, abdominal pain, eosinophilia and hypo-albuminaemia. However, the clinical picture was not felt to be typical for JIA. The differential diagnosis at the time was that this could be an evolving connective tissue disease; however, the autoimmune screen was negative. Also, initially there were no abnormal skin or fascial features seen on imaging, and no other organ dysfunction or features pointing towards a specific condition.

Once infection and risk of malignancy was excluded in consultation with the infectious disease and haematology teams, it was agreed that treatment was required. Pulse methylprednisolone was agreed as an appropriate first choice with a plan to review response on weaning oral steroids.

When the little girl returned for review, the clinical picture had progressed to include non-tender, tightness and thickening of the forearms, with ongoing restriction in multiple joints and abdominal pain. In view of the ongoing abdominal pain, eosinophilia, low albumin and rising ALT she was discussed with the gastroenterology team who repeated an abdominal USS and performed an OGD. The USS showed a slightly enlarged spleen. The OGD was macroscopically normal. Microscopically there were some submucosal duodenal foamy macrophages, significance uncertain.

The team remained suspicious that this was an eosinophilic driven inflammatory condition with musculoskeletal findings, and so an MRI of the right hand and wrist was requested. This showed an abnormal rim of high signal around the tendons and along the fascial planes of the forearm in both extensor and flexor compartments, consistent with a diagnosis of eosinophilic fasciitis. A skin and muscle biopsy were obtained which confirmed chronic inflammation and fibrosis in the fascia. These features were consistent with the suggested radiological diagnosis of eosinophilic fasciitis. She was commenced on subcutaneous methotrexate.

Case report - Key learning points

Eosinophilic faciitis (EF), also known as Shulman syndrome after the physician who, in 1974 was the first to report on the disorder in the medical literature, is a rare disorder. It is characterised by inflammatory infiltrate in the fascia consisting of lymphocytes, macrophages and plasma cells, with eosinophils sometimes present. The fascia is thickened 2- to 15- fold; the dermis and epidermis can be unaffected.

The condition can precede, coexist or follow localised scleroderma. Clinically it can present as painful swelling with progressive induration and thickening of the skin – “peau d’orange” appearance. In paediatrics, as was the case in this little girl, skin findings are minimal or absent at presentation. Paediatric EF tends to involve extremities, often the hands and feet.

There is a paucity of data for paediatric EF. In childhood onset EF there is a higher frequency of joint involvement. However, many can develop persistent cutaneous fibrosis and permanent disability. Over 30% of children also present with visceral involvement, such as mesenteric lymphadenopathy, hepatosplenomegaly and pericardial effusion.

Early recognition of the condition and timely initiation of treatment improves likelihood of good response to treatment. Risk factors for persistent fibrosis include extensive disease (3—4 extremities and trunk involvement) and/or younger age at onset.

There are no standardised guidelines for treatment of childhood-onset EF. However, given that children have more severe, rapidly progressive articular involvement, the expert view is that initial treatment should include combination therapy i.e., corticosteroids and methotrexate. If this treatment fails, the literature suggests instigation of alternative DMARDS, biologics or JAK inhibitors.

Summary learning/discussion points include;

O26 More than meets the eye … When inflammation extends beyond the anterior chamber

Case report - Introduction

The differential diagnosis of paediatric uveitis is extensive. Classification starts by determining infectious versus non-infectious causes, anatomic location and associated intra-ocular and extra-ocular features. A relatively common referral to Paediatric Rheumatology from our Ophthalmology colleagues is of a child with a diagnosis of uveitis.

This case highlights the importance and benefits of multidisciplinary team working across our regional network when caring for children with complex and rare conditions.

Case report - Case description

An 8-year-old-girl was referred by her local ophthalmology team to the paediatric rheumatology clinic with a diagnosis of pars-planitis. She had presented to them with blurred-vision and eye-“floaters”.

On review, the girl reported that she had a 4-month-history of headaches and blurred-vision, associated with dizziness. She denied any eye-pain. Corresponding to the onset of her symptoms, she had suffered with Chickenpox. Her mother felt that she had "not been right since then". She noted that she was generally quieter and more fatigued than normal.

Over the course of the 4 months, she was noted to have become clumsier and was bumping into things on a regular basis. She reported increasing visual difficulties in her right eye and initially attended for an optician review. The optician was concerned and referred for urgent ophthalmology opinion. She was diagnosed with bilateral pars-planitis, commenced on oral prednisolone and referred for paediatric rheumatology and tertiary ophthalmology assessment. The headaches improved following commencement on steroids.

Positive findings on systems review included occasional oral ulcers, 1—2 times-per-month. They started about 1-month prior to the onset of her chickenpox and continued for the following 3—4 months. She denied any history of genital-ulcers or skin-rash. She had new-onset muscle soreness and tiredness after activity. She also described non-specific abdominal pain since having chickenpox, but no associated change in bowel habit.

Examination revealed normal skin, hair, nail and joint examination. She had a soft systolic murmur (echocardiogram normal). She had RUQ tenderness on abdominal palpation (abdominal-USS – spleen upper limit of normal. Nil else). Relevant blood and stool samples were sent as part of a uveitis work-up panel.

The paediatric ophthalmologist found right-intermediate uveitis with vitreitis and peripheral retinal changes in keeping with a peripheral exudative detachment. Similar changes were seen in the peripheral retina of the left eye. The impression was of bilateral pan-uveitis with retinal involvement. A subsequent oral fluorescein angiogram showed a widespread retinal vasculitis with some occlusive changes in the right-eye, and a tuft of retinal vascular leakage at the 5-o'clock position in the left eye.

Case report - Discussion

The differential diagnosis for paediatric retinal vasculitis is broad. It includes collagen vascular disorders, Behçet's disease, Eales’ disease, post viral or post vaccination, acquired toxoplasmosis, multiple sclerosis, systemic immunosuppression and Henoch-Schönlein purpura. The ANA, ENAs, dsDNA, ANCA, ACE, Toxoplasma and Lyme serology were all negative for this little girl. Her inflammatory markers were also normal. She was not on any regular medications prior to her illness and had not had any recent vaccinations. She had no significant past medical or family history of note. However, the onset of her symptoms did correspond to her having chickenpox. She was subsequently found to be positive for HLA B51.

In view of the ophthalmology findings and positive HLA B51, the little girl was admitted for an urgent MRI/MRI to exclude neuro- Behçets. This was reported as normal. She was treated with a three-day pulse of IV methylprednisolone and discharged on oral prednisolone 10mg OD (weight 33.4kg).

At present Bechet’s retinal vasculitis remains high in the list of differentials for this little girl; however, currently she does not strictly meet the diagnostic criteria for Bechet’s disease. She has been commenced on a steroid sparing agent, azathioprine. Her follow-up plan is to be reviewed in the joint paediatric rheumatology and ophthalmology clinic in 1 months’ time.

Case report - Key learning points

Retinal vasculitis may occur secondary to a systemic disease or an infectious agent, or as an isolated retinal aetiology. Given that the differentials are vast, a detailed history and examination are important to identify signs and symptoms of systemic disease. Appropriate investigations should be chosen to help narrow the differentials and ensure pathology that could lead to significant morbidity and mortality is not missed.

With a case such as this, close collaboration between the paediatric ophthalmologist and rheumatologist is paramount to ensure the best outcome for the patient.

With regards to treatment, small case series have described a refractory nature of retinal vasculitis in paediatric patients. One study report that almost 80% of patients with paediatric idiopathic uveitis show manifestations of retinal vasculitis, which is associated with a lower probability of inflammation control resulting in a worse visual prognosis.

Points for discussion

Neuropsychiatric involvement in juvenile-onset systemic lupus erythematosus: Data from the UK Juvenile-onset systemic lupus erythematosus cohort study

INTRODUCTION

Juvenile-onset systemic lupus erythematosus (JSLE) is a rare autoimmune/inflammatory disease with significant morbidity and mortality. Neuropsychiatric (NP) involvement is a severe complication, encompassing a heterogeneous range of neurological and psychiatric manifestations.

METHODS

Demographic, clinical, and laboratory features of NP-SLE were assessed in participants of the UK JSLE Cohort Study, and compared to patients in the same cohort without NP manifestations.

RESULTS

A total of 428 JSLE patients were included in this study, 25% of which exhibited NP features, half of them at first visit. Most common neurological symptoms among NP-JSLE patients included headaches (78.5%), mood disorders (48.6%), cognitive impairment (42%), anxiety (23.3%), seizures (19.6%), movement disorders (17.7%), and cerebrovascular disease (14.9%). Peripheral nervous system involvement was recorded in 7% of NP-SLE patients. NP-JSLE patients more frequently exhibited thrombocytopenia (<100 × 109/L) (p = 0.04), higher C-reactive protein levels (p = 0.01), higher global pBILAG score at first visit (p < 0.001), and higher SLICC damage index score at first (p = 0.02) and last (p < 0.001) visit when compared to JSLE patients without NP involvement.

CONCLUSIONS

A significant proportion of JSLE patients experience NP involvement (25%). Juvenile-onset NP-SLE most commonly affects the CNS and is associated with increased overall disease activity and damage.

Anti-tumour necrosis factor treatment for the prevention of ischaemic events in patients with deficiency of adenosine deaminase 2 (DADA2)

Objective

To evaluate the impact of anti-Tumour Necrosis Factor-α (anti-TNF) treatment on the occurrence of vasculitic ischaemic events in patients with deficiency of adenosine deaminase 2 (DADA2).

Methods

A retrospective analysis of DADA2 patients referred from six centres to Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children was conducted. Ischaemic events, vasculitic disease activity, biochemical, immunological, and radiological features were compared, before and after anti-TNF treatment.

Results

A total of 31 patients with genetically confirmed DADA2 were included in the study. The median duration of active disease activity prior to anti-TNF treatment was 73 months (inter-quartile range [IQR] 27.5–133.5 months). Twenty seven/31 patients received anti-TNF treatment for a median of 32 months (IQR 12.0–71.5 months). The median event rate of central nervous system (CNS) and non-CNS ischemic events before anti-TNF treatment was 2.37 per 100 patient-months (IQR 1.25–3.63); compared with 0.00 per 100 patient-months (IQR 0.0–0.0) post-treatment (p&lt; 0.0001). Paediatric vasculitis activity score (PVAS) was also significantly reduced: median score of 20/63 (IQR 13.0–25.8/63) pre-treatment vs. 2/63 (IQR 0.0–3.8/63) following anti-TNF treatment (p&lt; 0.0001), with mild livedoid rash being the main persisting feature. Anti-TNF treatment was not effective for severe immunodeficiency or bone marrow failure, which required haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT).

Conclusion

Anti-TNF treatment significantly reduced the incidence of ischaemic events and other vasculitic manifestations of DADA2, but was not effective for immunodeficiency or bone marrow failure.

Clinical and laboratory phenotypes in juvenile-onset Systemic Lupus Erythematosus across ethnicities in the UK

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a systemic autoimmune/inflammatory disease. Patients diagnosed with juvenile-onset SLE (jSLE), when compared to individuals with adult-onset SLE, develop more severe organ involvement, increased disease activity and greater tissue and organ damage. In adult-onset SLE, clinical characteristics, pathomechanisms, disease progression and outcomes do not only vary between individuals and age groups, but also ethnicities. However, in children and young people, the influence of ethnicity on disease onset, phenotype and outcome has not been investigated in detail. In this study, we investigated clinical and laboratory characteristics in pediatric SLE patients from different ethnic backgrounds (White Caucasian, Asian, Black African/Caribbean) accessing data from a national cohort of jSLE patients (the UK JSLE Cohort Study). Among jSLE patients in the UK, ethnicity affects both the disease’s clinical course and outcomes. At diagnosis, Black African/Caribbean jSLE patients show more “classical” laboratory and clinical features when compared to White Caucasian or Asian patients. Black African/Caribbean jSLE patients exhibit more renal involvement and more frequently receive cyclophosphamide and rituximab. Studies targeting ethnicity-specific contributors to disease expression and phenotypes are necessary to improve our pathophysiological understanding, diagnosis and treatment of jSLE.

O22 An inflammatory journey from brain to skin: a case of En Coupe De Sabre scleroderma presenting with raised intracranial pressure, seizures, and uveitis

Case report - Introduction

Scleroderma is a rare connective tissue disease characterised by thickening and hardening of the skin resulting in increased collagen production. The predominant type of childhood scleroderma is localised scleroderma (LSc) which primarily involves the skin, fascia, muscle, and bone. En coup de sabre (ECDS) is a rare subtype affecting the frontoparietal region and is characterised by a unilateral indurated streak in the shape of a sabre sword wound.

ECDS is also associated with extracutaneous features which can manifest prior to the classical skin changes. We present the case of a 7-year-old boy with ECDS presenting with neurological and ocular findings.

Case report - Case description

A seven-year-old boy presented with severe headache followed by a twenty min right sided focal seizure. He had a 3-month history of headaches associated with vomiting suggesting raised intracranial pressure and ophthalmology review revealed bilateral papilloedema. Viral studies, bacterial serology and autoimmune screen were negative. He had normal inflammatory markers. Brain MRI demonstrated left sided white matter changes, thought to be secondary to inflammation. The clinical impression was of atypical pseudotumor cerebri and Acetazolamide was commenced.

Intermittent headaches persisted, without vomiting but unilateral left uveitis was identified. This was treated with Dexamethasone eye drops and his Acetazolamide was switched to Topiramate. Further imaging excluded malignancy and MRA and MRV were negative for vasculitis and sinus thrombosis. Neuro-Behcet’s was considered in the presence of HLA-b51 positivity but he did not meet diagnostic criteria.

His parents reported a transient knee swelling and an intermittent red line on his forehead. The rest of systemic screen was negative. In the presence of raised pressure, inflammation on imaging and dexamethasone dependant uveitis, he was commenced on a weaning course of oral prednisolone.

On this treatment his papilloedema and uveitis resolved but his Topiramate dose was increased due to intermittent brief focal seizures. MRI changes remained stable. A year after first presentation, episodes of left sided facial flushing became prominent associated with an injected left eye and an asymmetrical reduction of subcutaneous depth developed. Infrared thermography revealed warmth on the left forehead in the Blaschkoid distribution. The diagnosis was revised to ECDS with neuroinflammation.

The patient was commenced on high dose steroids and Mycophenolate Mofetil (MMF). Seizures resolved, uveitis and papilloedema remain absent and his skin stabilised. Recently there has been concern regarding progression of a facial lesion on reducing to 5 mg of Prednisolone, and a further prednisolone course and optimised MMF were initiated.

Case report - Discussion

ECDS is an unusual variant of linear scleroderma but causes significant cosmetic changes. The skin lesions can be hard to treat and the choice of medication depends on response and associated extracutaneous features.

The lesion is typically erythematous during the acute inflammatory phase, before exhibiting a sunken ivory appearance. It is usually unilateral, rare below the forehead but can extend into the hairline. Asymmetrical facial development can occur.

In a large multicentre study of 750 children with LSc the prevalence and the clinical features of extracutaneous findings were identified. In 92% of cases a skin lesion was the presenting feature of disease. 4% of cases had neurological involvement. This increased to 18% in patients with ECDS. The most frequent neurological symptoms were seizures and headaches. When neuroimaging abnormalities are identified they are primarily ipsilateral to the skin lesion.

Ocular involvement is reported and in another large multicentre study of children with LSc, the involvement of the anterior segment of the eye was the second most frequent condition. Anterior uveitis was the most relevant finding.

In most patients the development of neurological symptoms follows the recognition of cutaneous disease. In our case his headaches, seizures and uveitis were the presenting feature prior to development of the scleroderma lesion. The cutaneous features were initially intermittent and transient making diagnosis challenging and classical skin changes may have been slowed by the initial course of oral prednisolone for his neurological and ocular disease. Access to infrared thermography proved to be a helpful modality to confirm the inflammatory skin lesion and affirm the diagnosis.

Case report - Key learning points

This case highlights to clinicians the importance of assessing for extracutaneous features of linear scleroderma of the face. The case further highlights that these findings, including focal seizures associated with non-specific unilateral inflammatory neurological lesions, raised intracranial pressure, and unilateral uveitis can be presenting features before the typical skin changes are visible. Intermittent erythema in a longitudinal linear distribution may be the first indication of cutaneous disease and repeated thorough cutaneous examination is vital.

Anterior uveitis can be completely unrelated to the site of LsC and is asymptomatic. Ophthalmic monitoring is recommended for all patients and is mandatory in those with lesions on the face and/or CNS involvement. ECDS should be considered in the differential for all patients presenting with unilateral anterior uveitis.

The cutaneous outcome for children with ECDS is variable and some lesions remain refractory to the most used disease modifying treatments including methotrexate and MMF. In some cases, the inflammation self terminates but loss of subcutaneous tissue and asymmetrical facial development remains. Fat transplant remains an option in for some cases. The lesions can be very disfiguring and can cause significant psychological distress and we recommend early referral to clinical psychology within the paediatric rheumatology team.

P137 Growing up on biologics: a case report of development of NMDAr encephalitis in a young person with JIA on abatacept

Background

A 12-year-old female with JIA on biologic medication (IV abatacept every three weeks) presented with a first generalised tonic-clonic seizure on background of preceding headache and fatigue. The seizure self-terminated but disorientation and encephalopathy ensued. MRI brain demonstrated lesions with high signal intensity in the left periventricular and right occipital regions. The clinical picture and radiological imaging suggested a broad differential diagnosis including CNS infection, JC virus associated progressive multifocal leucoencephalomalacia (PML), acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM) and Anti-N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor (NMDAr) encephalitis. She was commenced on IV ceftriaxone, acyclovir and clarithromycin. All bloods including inflammatory markers and infection serology were unremarkable. CSF was acellular and JC virus PCR negative. NMDAr encephalitis was initially considered unlikely (pre-existing immunosuppression, abnormal MRI brain and no evidence of ovarian teratoma on abdominal MRI pelvis). However more classical clinical features developed including further seizures, significant movement disorder, cognitive dysfunction, sleep and speech dysfunction. Anti-NMDAr antibodies in both serum and CSF were positive. She made a good recovery following IV steroids, plasmapheresis and rituximab and was discharged home after a 10-week admission. NMDAr encephalitis developed three years after commencing abatacept treatment. Previous immune modulating treatment included methotrexate (since age 2 years), Etanercept (age 5-8 years) and Tocilizumab (aged 8-10 years). Flares of disease following a period of control necessitated the changes in therapy.

Methods

A literature review was conducted to explore the relationship between NMDAr encephalitis and biologic medication. A yellow card report and information request to abatacept manufacturer were also submitted.

Results

No previous cases of NMDAr encephalitis in patients on abatacept or paediatric cases related to biologic therapy are described. There are reports of adults developing NMDAr encephalitis on Adalumimab for Crohn’s disease and etanercept for rheumatoid arthritis. NMDAr encephalitis has also been described in patients on immune checkpoint inhibitors for malignant melanoma (nivolumab and ipilimumab). Known triggers of production of anti-NMDA receptor antibodies include tumours (ovarian teratoma; rarely associated in patients under 12 years) and viral infections. Developing autoimmune disorders on biologic medication is well reported, most notably psoriasis and inflammatory bowel disease. In relation to abatacept specifically, the development of anti-nuclear antibodies (ANA) and psoriasis have been described. However, patients with autoimmune disorders are known to be of increased risk for additional immune disease. A new cohort of patients are emerging who have received multiple biologic medications and the development of autoimmune conditions despite immunosuppression needs to be considered.

Conclusion

We describe the first case of NMDAr encephalitis occurring in a child on abatacept therapy, and the first case in JIA. We are unable to determine what contribution a history of autoimmune disease or immunomodulating therapy has made on its development in this case.

Disclosures

R. Close: None. P. Bale: None. K. Gallagher: None. G. Ambegaonkar: None. T. Rossor: None. N. Abbassi: None. K. Armon: None.

Clinical and laboratory characteristics in juvenile-onset systemic lupus erythematosus across age groups

Background

Systemic lupus erythematous (SLE) is a systemic autoimmune/inflammatory condition. Approximately 15–20% of patients develop symptoms before their 18th birthday and are diagnosed with juvenile-onset SLE (JSLE). Gender distribution, clinical presentation, disease courses and outcomes vary significantly between JSLE patients and individuals with adult-onset SLE. This study aimed to identify age-specific clinical and/or serological patterns in JSLE patients enrolled to the UK JSLE Cohort Study.

Methods

Patient records were accessed and grouped based on age at disease-onset: pre-pubertal (≤7 years), peri-pubertal (8–13 years) and adolescent (14–18 years). The presence of American College of Rheumatology (ACR) classification criteria, laboratory results, disease activity [British Isles Lupus Assessment Group (BILAG) and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index 2000 (SLEDAI-2 K) scores] and damage [Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics (SLICC) damage index] were evaluated at diagnosis and last follow up.

Results

A total of 418 JSLE patients were included in this study: 43 (10.3%) with pre-pubertal disease onset; 240 (57.4%) with peri-pubertal onset and 135 (32.3%) were diagnosed during adolescence. At diagnosis, adolescent JSLE patients presented with a higher number of ACR criteria when compared with pre-pubertal and peri-pubertal patients [pBILAG2004 scores: 9(4–20] vs. 7(3–13] vs. 7(3–14], respectively, p = 0.015] with increased activity in the following BILAG domains: mucocutaneous (p = 0.025), musculoskeletal (p = 0.029), renal (p = 0.027) and cardiorespiratory (p = 0.001). Furthermore, adolescent JSLE patients were more frequently ANA-positive (p = 0.034) and exhibited higher anti-dsDNA titres (p = 0.001). Pre-pubertal individuals less frequently presented with leukopenia (p = 0.002), thrombocytopenia (p = 0.004) or low complement (p = 0.002) when compared with other age groups. No differences were identified in disease activity (pBILAG2004 score), damage (SLICC damage index) and the number of ACR criteria fulfilled at last follow up.

Conclusions

Disease presentations and laboratory findings vary significantly between age groups within a national cohort of JSLE patients. Patients diagnosed during adolescence exhibit greater disease activity and “classic” autoantibody, immune cell and complement patterns when compared with younger patients. This supports the hypothesis that pathomechanisms may vary between patient age groups.

P39 Physiotherapy management of long thoracic nerve injury (LTNI) post-flu vaccine in an immunocompromised patient with vasculitis: what is the best strategy?

Background

We describe the case of a 12 year-old boy with polyarteritis nodosa presenting with long thoracic nerve injury (LTNI) post flu vaccination. Polyarteritis nodosa is an inflammatory vasculitis treated with immunosuppressive medication. Children with immunosuppression require seasonal flu vaccination, and LTNI is a recognised complication, rare in children, with no incidence documented. Physiotherapy plays a role in the conservative management of LTNI, however, there is debate regarding the most effective regime.

Methods

Case description with literature review of aetiology, treatment strategies and recommendations for effective therapeutic approach.

Results

Our patient was diagnosed with polyarteritis nodosa following an admission with intra-abdominal bleed, coeliac axis thrombosis and mesenteric artery aneurysm seen on angiogram. He responded well to steroids and immunosuppressive medication. Due to the risk of infection from immune suppression, he received seasonal intra-muscular influenza vaccination to the right deltoid. There were no initial complications, however, two weeks later, burning shoulder pain and sleep disturbance were reported. There was paraesthesia in the right hand although grip strength was not impaired. Of note, the patient is left hand-dominant.

Examination revealed elevation of the right shoulder girdle and winging of the medial border of the scapula. Range of movement at the shoulder was full and pain-free. Palpation of the gleno-humeral joint line and deltoid were unremarkable. The clinical findings suggested long thoracic nerve denervation.

Physiotherapy assessment demonstrated weakness in the serratus anterior muscle and abnormal scapula movement patterns, including decreased protraction. Nerve conduction studies reported decreased activation of the long thoracic nerve. Scapula recruitment exercises were advised, as well as posture correction. After a year, scapula-humeral rhythm and strength of the scapula muscles improved.

Conclusion

Causes of scapula-winging in children include osteochondromas, exostoses and sports-related injuries. Scapula-winging associated with LTNI is a recognised complication of flu vaccine but very rarely reported in under 16-year olds.

Treatment of LTNI is poorly evidenced in the literature. However, physiotherapy including bracing to enhance proprioception, mobility exercises in supine to correct scapula position and strengthening of scapula muscles is reported. There is a lack of evidence to inform the most effective approach. The literature outlines that general gleno-humeral muscle strengthening is beneficial in improving shoulder function in LTNI. However, there is limited research investigating the specific role of scapula muscle strengthening in LTNI in children. The literature suggests that poor scapula function can impair the biomechanics of the shoulder and exercises that address scapula muscle control can improve movement patterns.

The time to recovery from LTNI is estimated between 1-2 years and maintaining muscle bulk is our challenge, as the nerve recovers.

Clinicians need to be aware of LTNI complicating flu vaccine in immuno-compromised children. We highlight the importance of physiotherapy in improving scapula biomechanics.

Conflicts of Interest

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

Outcomes following mycophenolate mofetil versus cyclophosphamide induction treatment for proliferative juvenile-onset lupus nephritis

Background

Juvenile-onset systemic lupus erythematosus (JSLE) is more severe than adult-onset disease, including more lupus nephritis (LN). Despite differences in phenotype/pathogenesis, treatment is based upon adult trials. This study aimed to compare treatment response, damage accrual, time to inactive LN and subsequent flare, in JSLE LN patients treated with mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) versus intravenous cyclophosphamide (IVCYC).

Methods

UK JSLE Cohort Study participants, ≤16 years at diagnosis, with ≥4 American College of Rheumatology criteria for SLE, with class III or IV LN, were eligible. Mann–Whitney U tests, Fisher's exact test and Chi-squared tests were utilized for statistical analysis.

Results

Of the patients, 34/51 (67%) received MMF, and 17/51 (33%) received IVCYC. No significant differences were identified at 4–8 and 10–14 months post-renal biopsy and last follow-up, in terms of renal British Isles Lupus Assessment Grade scores, urine albumin/creatinine ratio, serum creatinine, ESR, anti-dsDNA antibody, C3 levels and patient/physician global scores. Standardized Damage Index scores did not differ between groups at 13 months or at last follow-up. Inactive LN was attained 262 (141–390) days after MMF treatment, and 151 (117–305) days following IVCYC ( p = 0.17). Time to renal flare was 451 (157–1266) days for MMF, and 343 (198–635) days for IVCYC ( p = 0.47).

Conclusion

This is the largest study to date investigating induction treatments for proliferative LN in children, demonstrating comparability of MMF and IVCYC.

The effectiveness of a multidisciplinary intervention strategy for the treatment of symptomatic joint hypermobility in childhood: a randomised, single Centre parallel group trial (The Bendy Study)

INTRODUCTION

Joint hypermobility is common in childhood and can be associated with musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction. Current management is delivered by a multidisciplinary team, but evidence of effectiveness is limited. This clinical trial aimed to determine whether a structured multidisciplinary, multisite intervention resulted in improved clinical outcomes compared with standard care.

METHOD

A prospective randomised, single centre parallel group trial comparing an 8-week individualised multidisciplinary intervention programme (bespoke physiotherapy and occupational therapy in the clinical, home and school environment) with current standard management (advice, information and therapy referral if deemed necessary). The primary endpoint of the study was between group difference in child reported pain from baseline to 12 months as assessed using the Wong Baker faces pain scale. Secondary endpoints were parent reported pain (100 mm visual analogue scale), parent reported function (child health assessment questionnaire), child reported quality of life (child health utility 9-dimensional assessment), coordination (movement assessment battery for children version 2) and grip strength (handheld dynamometer).

RESULTS

119 children aged 5 to 16 years, with symptomatic hypermobility were randomised to receive an individualised multidisciplinary intervention (I) (n = 59) or standard management (S) (n = 60). Of these, 105 completed follow up at 12 months. No additional significant benefit could be shown from the intervention compared to standard management. However, there was a statistically significant improvement in child and parent reported pain, coordination and grip strength in both groups. The response was independent of the degree of hypermobility.

CONCLUSION

This is the first randomised controlled trial to compare a structured multidisciplinary, multisite intervention with standard care in symptomatic childhood hypermobility. For the majority, the provision of education and positive interventions aimed at promoting healthy exercise and self-management was associated with significant benefit without the need for more complex interventions.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The trial was registered prospectively with the national database at the Clinical Research Network (UKCRN Portfolio 9366). The trial was registered retrospectively with ISRCTN ( ISRCTN86573140 ).

Duration of intravenous antibiotic therapy for children with acute osteomyelitis or septic arthritis: a feasibility study

BACKGROUND

There is little current consensus regarding the route or duration of antibiotic treatment for acute osteomyelitis (OM) and septic arthritis (SA) in children.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the overall feasibility and inform the design of a future randomised controlled trial (RCT) to reduce the duration of intravenous (i.v.) antibiotic use in paediatric OM and SA.

DESIGN

(1) A prospective service evaluation (cohort study) to determine the current disease spectrum and UK clinical practice in paediatric OM/SA; (2) a prospective cohort substudy to assess the use of targeted polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in diagnosing paediatric OM/SA; (3) a qualitative study to explore families' views and experiences of OM/SA; and (4) the development of a core outcome set via a systematic review of literature, Delphi clinician survey and stakeholder consensus meeting.

SETTING

Forty-four UK secondary and tertiary UK centres (service evaluation).

PARTICIPANTS

Children with OM/SA.

INTERVENTIONS

PCR diagnostics were compared with culture as standard of care. Semistructured interviews were used in the qualitative study.

RESULTS

Data were obtained on 313 cases of OM/SA, of which 218 (61.2%) were defined as simple disease and 95 (26.7%) were defined as complex disease. The epidemiology of paediatric OM/SA in this study was consistent with existing European data. Children who met oral switch criteria less than 7 days from starting i.v. antibiotics were less likely to experience treatment failure (9.6%) than children who met oral switch criteria after 7 days of i.v. therapy (16.1% when switch was between 1 and 2 weeks; 18.2% when switch was > 2 weeks). In 24 out of 32 simple cases (75%) and 8 out of 12 complex cases (67%) in which the targeted PCR was used, a pathogen was detected. The qualitative study demonstrated the importance to parents and children of consideration of short- and long-term outcomes meaningful to families themselves. The consensus meeting agreed on the following outcomes: rehospitalisation or recurrence of symptoms while on oral antibiotics, recurrence of infection, disability at follow-up, symptom free at 1 year, limb shortening or deformity, chronic OM or arthritis, amputation or fasciotomy, death, need for paediatric intensive care, and line infection. Oral switch criteria were identified, including resolution of fever for ≥ 48 hours, tolerating oral food and medicines, and pain improvement.

LIMITATIONS

Data were collected in a 6-month period, which might not have been representative, and follow-up data for long-term complications are limited.

CONCLUSIONS

A future RCT would need to recruit from all tertiary and most secondary UK hospitals. Clinicians have implemented early oral switch for selected patients with simple disease without formal clinical trial evidence of safety. However, the current criteria by which decisions to make the oral switch are made are not clearly established or evidence based.

FUTURE WORK

A RCT in simple OM and SA comparing shorter- or longer-course i.v. therapy is feasible in children randomised after oral switch criteria are met after 7 days of i.v. therapy, excluding children meeting oral switch criteria in the first week of i.v. therapy. This study design meets clinician preferences and addresses parental concerns not to randomise prior to oral switch criteria being met.

FUNDING

The National Institute for Health Research Health Technology Assessment programme.

Evaluation of the ACR and SLICC classification criteria in juvenile-onset systemic lupus erythematosus: a longitudinal analysis

Objectives The Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics (SLICC) group proposed revised classification criteria for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLICC-2012 criteria). This study aimed to compare these criteria with the well-established American College of Rheumatology classification criteria (ACR-1997 criteria) in a national cohort of juvenile-onset systemic lupus erythematosus (JSLE) patients and evaluate how patients' classification criteria evolved over time. Methods Data from patients in the UK JSLE Cohort Study with a senior clinician diagnosis of probable evolving, or definite JSLE, were analyzed. Patients were assessed using both classification criteria within 1 year of diagnosis and at latest follow up (following a minimum 12-month follow-up period). Results A total of 226 patients were included. The SLICC-2012 was more sensitive than ACR-1997 at diagnosis (92.9% versus 84.1% p < 0.001) and after follow up (100% versus 92.0% p < 0.001). Most patients meeting the SLICC-2012 criteria and not the ACR-1997 met more than one additional criterion on the SLICC-2012. Conclusions The SLICC-2012 was better able to classify patients with JSLE than the ACR-1997 and did so at an earlier stage in their disease course. SLICC-2012 should be considered for classification of JSLE patients in observational studies and clinical trial eligibility.

Mucocutaneous manifestations in a UK national cohort of juvenile-onset systemic lupus erythematosus patients

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether mucocutaneous manifestations are associated with major organ involvement in a UK national cohort of juvenile-onset SLE (JSLE) patients.

METHODS

JSLE patients (n = 241) from 15 different centres whose diagnosis fulfilled four or more of the ACR criteria were divided into two groups: those with at least one ACR mucocutaneous criterion (ACR skin feature positive) and those without (ACR skin feature negative) at diagnosis. The relative frequency of skin involvement was described by the paediatric adaptation of the 2004 British Isles Lupus Assessment Group (pBILAG-2004) index.

RESULTS

One hundred and seventy-nine patients (74%) had ACR-defined skin involvement with no significant demographic differences compared with those without. ACR skin feature negative patients showed greater haematological (84% vs 67%), renal (43% vs 26%) (P < 0.05) and neurological (16% vs 4%) involvement (P = 0.001). Forty-two per cent of ACR skin feature negative patients had skin involvement using pBILAG-2004, which included maculopapular rash (17%), non-scaring alopecia (15%), cutaneous vasculitis (12%) and RP (12%). ACR skin feature negative patients with moderate to severe skin involvement by pBILAG-2004 showed greater renal and haematological involvement at diagnosis and over the follow-up period (P < 0.05). Higher immunosuppressive drug use in the skin feature negative group was demonstrated.

CONCLUSION

Patients who fulfil the ACR criteria but without any of the mucocutaneous criteria at diagnosis have an increased risk of major organ involvement. The pBILAG-2004 index has shown that other skin lesions may go undetected using the ACR criteria alone, and these lesions show a strong correlation with disease severity and major organ involvement.

Adherence to home physiotherapy treatment in children and young people with joint hypermobility: a qualitative report of family perspectives on acceptability and efficacy

OBJECTIVE

Joint hypermobility can lead to pain and motor developmental problems in children and young people (CYP). Exercise programmes may help CYP with joint hypermobility strengthen core muscle groups. Non- adherence to home physiotherapy is common. The present study aimed to understand how families experienced an intensive multidisciplinary intervention.

METHOD

This was a qualitative study nested within a randomized controlled trial of a multidisciplinary treatment intervention, including physiotherapy, for children aged five to 17 years. Twenty-eight families were recruited following the intervention. Semi-structured interviews were used to examine the views and expectations of parents and CYP, and examine adherence to the exercise programme. Thematic analysis of data was used to develop findings.

RESULTS

Parents and CYP reported that exercise reduced the symptoms of hypermobility. Parental motivation, adapting family routines, making exercise a family activity and seeing benefit increased adherence to exercise. Non-adherence to exercise was linked to lower levels of parental supervision, not understanding the treatment, not seeing benefit and not having specific time to dedicate to doing the exercises.

CONCLUSION

Even when exercise is seen to benefit a child's well-being, families experience challenges in adhering to a physiotherapy programme for hypermobility. Therapists can utilize findings on what enhances adherence to help CYP effectively exercise in the home setting.