Pulmonary embolism versus pulmonary vasculitis in Hughes-Stovin syndrome: Characteristic computed tomography pulmonary angiographic findings and diagnostic and therapeutic implications. HSS International Study Group

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Hughes-Stovin syndrome (HSS) is a rare systemic vasculitis with widespread venous/arterial thrombosis and pulmonary vasculitis. Distinguishing between pulmonary embolism (PE) and in-situ thrombosis in the early stages of HSS is challenging. The aim of the study is to compare clinical, laboratory, and computed tomography pulmonary angiography (CTPA) characteristics in patients diagnosed with PE versus those with HSS.

METHODS

This retrospective study included 40 HSS patients with complete CTPA studies available, previously published by the HSS study group, and 50 patients diagnosed with PE from a single center. Demographics, clinical and laboratory findings, vascular thrombotic events, were compared between both groups. The CTPA findings were reviewed, with emphasis on the distribution, adherence to the mural wall, pulmonary infarction, ground glass opacification, and intra-alveolar hemorrhage. Pulmonary artery aneurysms (PAAs) in HSS were assessed and classified.

RESULTS

The mean age of HSS patients was 35 ± 12.3 years, in PE 58.4 ± 17 (p < 0.0001). Among PE 39(78 %) had co-morbidities, among HSS none. In contrast to PE, in HSS both major venous and arterial thrombotic events are seen.. Various patterns of PAAs were observed in the HSS group, which were entirely absent in PE. Parenchymal hemorrhage was also more frequent in HSS compared to PE (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Major vascular thrombosis with arterial aneurysms formation are characteristic of HSS. PE typically appear loosely-adherent and mobile whereas "in-situ thrombosis" seen in HSS is tightly-adherent to the mural wall. Mural wall enhancement and PAAs are distinctive pulmonary findings in HSS. The latter findings have significant therapeutic ramifications.

Pulmonary vasculitis in Behçet's disease: reference atlas computed tomography pulmonary angiography (CTPA) findings and risk assessment-management proposal

BACKGROUND AND AIM

 Pulmonary artery aneurysms (PAAs) are the most well-defined type of pulmonary vascular complication in Behçet's disease (BD).The aim of this study is to analyze which CT pulmonary angiography (CTPA) signs are associated with serious morbidity and mortality.

METHODS

The study included 42 BD patients with pulmonary vascular complications. All patients' medical records were reviewed retrospectively in terms of demographics, disease characteristics, laboratory investigations, pulmonary manifestations, arterial and/or venous thrombosis and CTPA vascular and parenchymal findings.

RESULTS

Deep venous thrombosis was observed in 31(73.8%) patients, arterial thrombosis in 13(31%), peripheral arterial aneurysms in 12(286%), haemoptysis in 38 (90.5%), and fatal haemoptysis in 8(19 %) patients. CTPA revealed: in situ thrombosis in 14(33.3%) patients, true stable PAAs in 13(31), true unstable PAAs in 11(26.2%), stable pulmonary artery pseudoaneurysms (PAPs) in 7(16.7%), unstable PAPs in 17(40.5%), the latter were associated with perianeurysmal leaking in 26(61.9%) and bronchial indentation in 19(45.2%).In regression analysis, fatal outcomes were associated with age in years (p=0.035), arterial thrombosis (p=0.025), peripheral arterial aneurysms (p=0.010), intracardiac thrombosis (p=0.026) and positively associated with haemoptysis severity (p<0.001).

CONCLUSION

Peripheral arterial thrombosis and/or aneurysms, intracardiac thrombosis and haemoptysis severity are predictor of fatal outcomes in BD pulmonary vasculitis. PAPs with perianeurysmal alveolar haemorrhage and/or bronchial indentation are serious CTPA signs that require prompt identification and aggressive treatment. PAPs are a more serious aneurysmal pattern than true PAAs because they are a contained rupture of a PA branch in the context of pulmonary vasculitis.

Pelvi-abdominal as a complication of long-term use of intrauterine device (IUD). The important role of imaging in diagnosis and follow-up

ACTINOMYCOSIS is a rare chronic granulomatous disease caused by anaerobic filamentous gram-positive bacteria, the most common of which is Actinomyces israelii. Actinomycetes are commensal inhabitants of the oral cavity and gastrointestinal tract, but they may become pathogenic through invasion of breached or necrotic tissue. Pelviabdominal ACTINOMYCOSIS is uncommon and can mimic a variety of disease processes, including abdominal mass mimicking malignancy, acute abdomen, asthenia, and weight loss. We describe a 38-year-old woman who presented with acute abdominal pain and tenderness, as well as constitutional manifestations and elevated inflammatory markers. On initial computerized tomography (CT) and MRI, a large fluid collection underlining the anterior abdominal wall at the false pelvic cavity, as well as parietal peritoneal enhancement and smudging of the mesenteric fat and a bulky fibroid uterus with an implanted IUD, were identified. The ultrasound guided aspiration and anaerobic culture revealed positive growth for Actinomyces bacteria. An exploratory laparoscopy revealed extensive adhesions between the abdominal wall and the small intestine, as well as hyperemic and thickened peritoneum, and peritoneal biopsy confirmed ACTINOMYCOSIS. After the diagnosis was established, the IUD was removed and the patient was given Ceftriaxone 2 gm once daily for 6 weeks before switching to oral doxycycline 100 mg twice daily for another 3 months. A significant regression of the suprapubic fluid collection, and peritoneal-mesenteric changes were confirmed on follow-up. The case is discussed, and the relevant literature reviewed and analyzed.

Contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features of Gruberi Bursitis as a very rare cause of dorsolateral ankle pain and swelling: Case report and review of the literature

The Gruberi sinus tarsi bursa is a dorsolateral ankle anatomic bursa that has been described in the past but is rarely mentioned in recent radiology literature. The Gruberi bursa is distinguished by its position between the extensor digitorum longus tendons and the talus. It is usually unilocular, anechoic and compressible as shown with ultrasound in a previous study. In recent literature, the enhanced MRI features of an inflamed Gruberi bursa as the underlying cause of a painful ankle joint and antalgic gait are rarely demonstrated. In this report, we present the enhanced MRI features of Gruberi bursitis in a female patient who complained of acute onset of pain and swelling along the dorsolateral aspect of her left ankle, as well as a painful limping gait after sport-related activities. Complaints improved after an intra-bursal corticosteroid injection. The case is discussed and the typical enhanced MRI features are demonstrated. The relevant literature is discussed.

The clinical utility of faecal calprotectin in patients with differentiated and undifferentiated spondyloarthritis: Relevance and clinical implications

OBJECTIVES

There is cumulative evidence in the literature supporting a potential role of faecal calprotectin (FCP) as a biomarker for gut inflammation in spondyloarthritis (SpA). However its relevance in undifferentiated SpA (USpA) is still uncertain. The aim of the current study is to assess the diagnostic significance of FCP levels in patients with differentiated and undifferentiated SpA.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A total of 52 differentiated SpA, 33 USpA and 50 controls could be included. For all patients, clinical evaluation, routine laboratory investigations, FCP levels, and occult blood in stool were performed. When indicated imaging and/or endoscopies were performed.

RESULTS

The differentiated SpA patients were 12 (23.1%) with ankylosing spondylitis, 21 (40.4%) with psoriatic arthritis, 13 (25%) with ulcerative colitis, 5 (9.6%) with Crohn's disease (CD) and one (1.9%) with reactive arthritis. The mean FCP level in 85 patients correlated with CRP and ESR. Within the SpA group ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease patients had increased FCP levels compared to other SpA subgroups and USpA patients (p<0.001). The mean FCP levelwas significantly higher in the SpA patients compared to USpA and controls (p<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Elevated FCP levels may identify patients who are most likely to have SpA already in the unclassified phase of the disease. Further studies in different series of patients are needed to evaluate the potential diagnostic and prognostic roles of FCP in both differentiated and undifferentiated phases of the disease.

Pulmonary vasculitis in Hughes-Stovin syndrome (HSS): a reference atlas and computed tomography pulmonary angiography guide-a report by the HSS International Study Group

Introduction

Hughes-Stovin syndrome (HSS) is a systemic vasculitis characterized by widespread venous/arterial thrombosis and pulmonary artery aneurysms (PAAs), which is associated with serious morbidity and mortality. All fatalities reported in HSS resulted from unpredictable fatal suffocating hemoptysis. Therefore, it is necessary to recognize pulmonary complications at an early stage of the disease.

Objectives

The aims of this study are to develop a reference atlas of images depicting the characteristic features of HSS by computed tomography pulmonary angiography (CTPA). To make a guide for physicians by developing a classification of PAAs according to the severity and risk of complications associated with each distinct lesion type.

Methods

The Members of the HSS International Study Group (HSSISG) collected 42 cases, with high-quality CTPA images in one radiology station and made reconstructions from the source images. These detailed CTPA studies were reviewed for final image selection and approved by HSSISG board members. We classified these findings according to the clinical course of the patients.

Results

This atlas describes the CTPA images that best define the wide spectrum of pulmonary vasculitis observed in HSS. Pulmonary aneurysms were classified into six radiographic patterns: from true stable PAA with adherent in-situ thrombosis to unstable leaking PAA, BAA and/or PAP with loss of aneurysmal wall definition (most prone to rupture), also CTPA images demonstrating right ventricular strain and intracardiac thrombosis.

Conclusion

The HSSISG reference atlas is a guide for physicians regarding the CTPA radiological findings, essential for early diagnosis and management of HSS-related pulmonary vasculitis.

Key Points • The Hughes-Stovin syndrome (HSS) is a systemic vasculitis characterized by extensive vascular thrombosis and pulmonary artery aneurysms (PAAs) that can lead to significant morbidity and mortality. • All fatalities reported in HSS were related to unpredictable massive hemoptysis; therefore, it is critical to recognize pulmonary complications at an early stage of the disease. • The HSS International Study Group reference atlas  classifies pulmonary vasculitis in HSS at 6 different stages of the disease process and defines the different radiological patterns of pulmonary vasculitis notably pulmonary artery aneurysms, as detected by computed tomography pulmonary angiography (CTPA). • The main aim of the classification is to make a guide for physicians about this rare syndrome. Such a scheme has never been reached before since the first description of the syndrome by Hughes and Stovin since 1959. This classification will form the basis for future recommendations regarding diagnosis and treatment of this syndrome.

Transient regional osteoporosis of the hip with extensive bone marrow edema (BME): Dramatic improvement after three months of Alendronate therapy

Transient osteoporosis of the hip, also termed transient bone marrow edema, is a painful condition often occurring after trivial trauma. It can be diagnosed with MRI in patients whose radiographs are negative or inconclusive. In this case report we describe a 39-year-old female patient with this rare entity, who was successfully treated with oral Alendronate, active vitamin D and calcium supplementation combined with avoiding of weight bearing on the affected hip. She improved clinically within three months and on contrast enhanced MRI studies, as performed before and after treatment, complete regression of bone marrow edema was shown already after three months of treatment. The literature was reviewed regarding the pathophysiology of transient osteoporosis of the hip and the beneficial effects of Alendronate in this domain. The report is important because it will increase the awareness among clinicians and radiologists about this entity, as in neglected cases transient regional osteoporosis of the hip may progress to avascular necrosis with complete loss of hip function.

Autoantibodies to extractable nuclear antigens (ENAs) pattern in rheumatoid arthritis patients: Relevance and clinical implications

OBJECTIVES

To study the frequency of different autoantibodies to extractable nuclear antigens (ENAs) in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients and to correlate findings with clinical manifestations, disease activity and radiological damage.

METHODS

A total of 230 RA patients were included and 75 healthy controls. In all patients rheumatological assessment was done and routine laboratory investigations and immune profile were performed in both patients and controls, including: RF, ACPA, ANA and anti-ENAs (Ro/SSA, La/SSB, U1-RNP, anti-Jo-1 and anti-Sm). Radiological damage was scored using Sharp/van der Heijde, and disease activity was evaluated by DAS28-ESR and DAS28-CRP.

RESULTS

RF was positive in 101 (43.9%), ACPA in 220 (95.7%), ANA in 58 (25.2%), anti Ro in 31 (13.5%), anti-La in 10 (4.3%), anti-Jo1 in 5 (2.2%) and anti-RNP in 2 (0.9%). Anti-Ro/SSA positively correlated with sicca symptoms (p=.02), RF titer (p<.001), ANA (p<.001), DAS28-ESR (p=.026), and DAS28-CRP (p=.003). Anti-La antibodies correlated positively with SJC (p=.001), TJC (p=.001), ANA (p<.001), DAS-28 ESR (p=.007). Anti-Jo-1 correlated positively with interstitial lung disease (ILD) (p≤.001), RF titer (p=.037) and ANA (p≤.001). Anti-RNP antibodies correlated positively with disease duration (p≤.001), ACPA titer (p≤.001) and ANA (p=.014). In the controls ANA was positive in two (2.7%), anti-Ro in three (4%), and none of the controls tested positive for other autoantibodies.

CONCLUSIONS

In RA patients, positive ANA is frequent and positively associated with anti-Ro, anti-La and anti-Jo1 autoantibodies. Screening for autoantibodies against other anti-ENAs seems mandatory in RA patients especially when ANA is positive. RA cases with positive Anti-Jo-1 may develop anti synthetase syndrome and ILD.

A critical analysis of 57 cases of Hughes-Stovin syndrome (HSS). A report by the HSS International Study Group (HSSISG)

BACKGROUND

Hughes-Stovin syndrome (HSS) is a systemic disease characterized by widespread vascular thrombosis and pulmonary vasculitis with serious morbidity and mortality. The HSS International Study Group is a multidisciplinary taskforce aiming to study HSS, in order to generate consensus recommendations regarding diagnosis and treatment.

METHODS

We included 57 published cases of HSS (43 males) and collected data regarding: clinical presentation, associated complications, hemoptysis severity, laboratory and computed tomography pulmonary angiography (CTPA) findings, treatment modalities and cause of death.

RESULTS

At initial presentation, DVT was observed in 29(33.3 %), thrombophlebitis in 3(5.3%), hemoptysis in 24(42.1%), and diplopia and seizures in 1 patient each. During the course of disease, DVT occurred in 48(84.2%) patients, and superficial thrombophlebitis was observed in 29(50.9%). Hemoptysis occurred in 53(93.0%) patients and was fatal in 12(21.1%). Pulmonary artery (PA) aneurysms (PAAs) were bilateral in 53(93%) patients. PAA were located within the main PA in 11(19.3%), lobar in 50(87.7%), interlobar in 13(22.8%) and segmental in 42(73.7%). Fatal outcomes were more common in patients with inferior vena cava thrombosis (p = 0.039) and ruptured PAAs (p < 0.001). Death was less common in patients treated with corticosteroids (p < 0.001), cyclophosphamide (p < 0.008), azathioprine (p < 0.008), combined immune modulators (p < 0.001). No patients had uveitis; 6(10.5%) had genital ulcers and 11(19.3%) had oral ulcers.

CONCLUSIONS

HSS may lead to serious morbidity and mortality if left untreated. PAAs, adherent in-situ thrombosis and aneurysmal wall enhancement are characteristic CTPA signs of HSS pulmonary vasculitis. Combined immune modulators contribute to favorable outcomes.

The Clinical Utility of Faecal Calprotectin in Patients with Differentiated and Undifferentiated Spondyloarthritis: Relevance and Clinical Implications

OBJECTIVES

There is cumulative evidence in the literature supporting a potential role of faecal calprotectin (FCP) as a biomarker for gut inflammation in spondyloarthritis (SpA). However its relevance in undifferentiated SpA (USpA) is still uncertain. The aim of the current study is to assess the diagnostic significance of FCP levels in patients with differentiated and undifferentiated SpA.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A total of 52 differentiated SpA, 33 USpA and 50 controls could be included. For all patients, clinical evaluation, routine laboratory investigations, FCP levels, and occult blood in stool were performed. When indicated imaging and/or endoscopies were performed.

RESULTS

The differentiated SpA patients were 12 (23.1%) with ankylosing spondylitis, 21 (40.4%) with psoriatic arthritis, 13 (25%) with ulcerative colitis, 5 (9.6%) with Crohn's disease (CD) and one (1.9%) with reactive arthritis. The mean FCP level in 85 patients correlated with CRP and ESR. Within the SpA group ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease patients had increased FCP levels compared to other SpA subgroups and USpA patients (p<0.001). The mean FCP levelwas significantly higher in the SpA patients compared to USpA and controls (p<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Elevated FCP levels may identify patients who are most likely to have SpA already in the unclassified phase of the disease. Further studies in different series of patients are needed to evaluate the potential diagnostic and prognostic roles of FCP in both differentiated and undifferentiated phases of the disease.

Antisynthetase syndrome complicating the course of established case with rheumatoid arthritis: A rare and under-recognized overlapping disease

A 52-year-old male patient developed RA in March 2009 at the age of 43, with symmetric polyarthritis and active synovitis affecting hands, knees, ankles and both feet without symptoms or signs suggestive of extra-articular features. Laboratory investigations showed negative RF and positive anti-CCP antibodies, negative ANA, negative anti-dsDNA antibodies; the X-rays of both hands showed typical erosive changes in RA and fulfilled the new ACR/EULAR (2010) criteria of RA. The patient achieved remission on a combination of DMARDs. He did well until January 2017 when he developed acute onset of progressive chest pain, dyspnea, and acute respiratory failure. High-resolution CT of the lung showed extensive areas of ground glass veiling, and interstitial subpleural infiltrates were found consistent with aggressive interstitial lung disease (ILD). Autoantibodies against extractable nuclear antigens were screened and showed positive results for anti-RO and anti-Jo1 autoantibodies. The positive anti-Jo1was an expression of anti-synthetase syndrome complicating the RA course and explained the rapidly aggressive course of ILD.

Guillain-Barré Syndrome Associated With Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Detection and Coronavirus Disease 2019 in a Child

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is caused by infection with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Physicians in China reported what is believed to be the first adult case of a SARS-CoV-2 infection associated with acute Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS), followed by 5 adult Italian patients and another case in the United States. In the current report, we present one of the first descriptions of an association of GBS and SARS-CoV-2 infection in a child. In our facility, an 11-year-old boy presented with typical features of GBS and, after 5 days, a morbilliform skin rash over the palms of both hands. Three weeks before the start of the neurological symptoms, the boy had experienced an episode of mild febrile illness with mild respiratory manifestations and a persistent cough. The diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 infection was confirmed by oropharyngeal swab on reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction assay. The disease course of our patient strongly suggests a possible relationship between the development of GBS and SARS-CoV-2 infection. The case is discussed in view of previous case reports regarding the association of GBS and COVID-19.

Mycophenolate mofetil for induction and maintenance of remission in naïve patients with granulomatosis with polyangiitis without renal involvement

Antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA) associated vasculitides include granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA, previously called Wegener's), microscopic polyangiitis (MPA) and eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA), previously called Churg-Strauss). In this report we used mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) and steroids to induce and maintain remission in two newly diagnosed cases with c-ANCA associated GPA. The two patients' maintained remission with no disease relapses during one year follow-up.

Magnetic resonance imaging features of hip disorders in an Egyptian pediatric population

Hip disorders in a pediatric population are a diagnostic challenge. The aim of the study is to assess the role of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the evaluation of non-traumatic hip disorders in a series of Egyptian patients and to review the literature on the most common hip conditions. Seventy two consecutive patients [40 males (55.6%) and 32 females (44.4)] with acute onset of hip complaints unrelated to trauma or falls were recruited. All patients underwent an initial full clinical assessment and blood tests as well as contrast enhanced MRI of both hips. The most common diagnosis in this group of Egyptian patients was transient synovitis in 29 (40.3%) cases, followed by seronegative enthesopathy and arthropathy syndrome in 8 (11.1%), septic arthritis in 10 (13.9%), tuberculous arthritis in 4 (5.6%), sickle-cell disease in 7 (9.7%), complicated with septic arthritis in 3 (4.2%), transient bone marrow edema (BME) in 3 (4.2%), osteomyelitis in 2 (2.8%), osteosarcoma in 2 (2.8%), sciatic nerve injury in 1 (1.4%), leukemia with BME in 1 (1.4%), coxa vara of both hips and L5/S1 facet joint ankylosis in 1 (1.4%), and a benign bone cyst in 1 (1.4%). MRI studies showed hip effusion in a total of 51 patients (70.8%), joint space narrowing in 9 (12.5%), and BME in 15(20.8%). MRI is a sensitive tool for assessing hip disorders in a pediatric population and can play an important role in both diagnosis and management of different hip disorders, irrespective of the underlying pathology.

Shoulder arthroscopy remains superior to direct MR arthrography for diagnosis of subtle rotator interval lesions

PURPOSE

To assess the sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of MR arthrography, as opposed to shoulder arthroscopy, in diagnosing individual rotator interval (RI) structures lesions at different levels of severity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Seventy-five patients were enrolled in a prospective study. All the patients were diagnosed with full-thickness rotator cuff tendon tears on unenhanced MRI and had complimentary MR arthrography to search for obscure RI lesions. All the patients then underwent shoulder arthroscopy. The arthroscopist was blinded about the MR arthrography results.

RESULTS

At arthroscopy, 42 patients (56 %) were found to have RI lesion(s) and represented the study group. The remaining 33 patients represented the control group. The sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of MR arthrography for detecting individual RI lesions varied widely depending on the location and severity of the lesions. MR arthrography showed intermediate sensitivity of 67-80 %, specificity of 83-89 % and accuracy of 89-92 % for diagnosing subtle RI lesions; and perfect (100 %) sensitivity, specificity and accuracy for diagnosing biceps long head tendon dislocation. For the rest of RI lesions, MR arthrography showed high sensitivity, specificity and accuracy. Inter-observer agreement was found to be almost perfect (K = 0.81-1.0).

CONCLUSION

Shoulder arthroscopy remains the gold standard for diagnosing subtle RI lesions. Although MR arthrography has proved to be a valuable tool for diagnosing established RI lesions, it is of intermediate sensitivity for diagnosing subtle RI lesions resulting in early insufficiency of the biceps pulley system.

Axial involvement with facet joint arthropathy and bony ankylosis in a case of camptodactyly, arthropathy, coxa vara, pericarditis (CACP) syndrome

Familial arthropathy associated with congenital camptodactyly has been previously recognized as a definite clinical entity in the literature. The clinical spectrum of this disease seems to be variable. The typical features of congenital camptodactyly, arthropathy, coxa vara and pericarditis (CACP syndrome) appear to be a more frequent presentation in children from the Middle East and North Africa. Musculoskeletal presentation of this rare familial form of arthropathy is unique and heterogeneous. In all previous reports, non-inflammatory pattern of arthropathy involving the peripheral joints with typical coxa vara deformity were described, and in a few cases spine abnormalities, including kyphosis, lordosis, or scoliosis. We describe the first case of axial involvement in a typical case of CACP syndrome with facet joint arthropathy and ankylosis at L5/S1 levels.

Transient osteoporosis of the hip, complete resolution after treatment with alendronate as observed by MRI description of eight cases and review of the literature

Transient osteoporosis of the hip (TOH), also referred to as transient bone marrow edema syndrome, is most common in middle-aged men and often after trivial trauma or sport-related injuries. Diagnosis is usually made by eliminating other possible causes of hip pain. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) plays an important role in diagnosis and demonstrates a typical pattern of bone marrow edema (BME) in the form of diffuse low signal on T1-weighted images and high signal on T2 fat-suppressed or short T1 inversion recovery images. No consensus exists about the management of TOH, as it may progress to avascular necrosis. We describe eight cases of TOH treated with alendronate resulting in improvement of pain and function and complete resolution of BME on MRI. The literature is reviewed regarding TOH and the relationship with bone marrow edema syndrome, avascular necrosis of the hip, and regional migratory osteoporosis. To our knowledge, this is the first report describing the improvement of this condition after of alendronate with documented radiological improvement on follow-up MRI.

Knee enthesitis and synovitis on magnetic resonance imaging in patients with psoriasis without arthritic symptoms

OBJECTIVE

This case-control study was designed to evaluate magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings of knee joints in patients with psoriasis without clinical peripheral or axial joint involvement, and to correlate MRI findings with disease and demographic variables.

METHODS

In total 48 patients with psoriasis and no clinical evidence of synovitis or enthesitis in any peripheral or axial joints were enrolled. A random sample of 20 healthy subjects without knee or other joint complaints and matched for age and sex served as controls. All patients and controls underwent enhanced MRI studies of both knee joints, and MRI findings were compared.

RESULTS

Among 48 patients (96 knees), a total of 90 entheseal lesions were detected, with no enthesitis in 2 cases (6.3%). Signs of continuing inflammation bilaterally were frequently found: soft tissue edema (STE; n = 52), bone marrow edema (BME; n = 20), perientheseal BME (n = 3), cartilaginous erosions (n = 42), and bone erosions (n = 27). In controls, 2 (10%) subjects had BME and another 5 (25%) showed cartilaginous erosions. None showed evidence of enthesitis. Significant correlations were observed between the number of entheseal lesions of both knees vs STE (present vs absent; r = 0.314, p = 0.030) and STE (number of lesions; r = 0.351, p = 0.014). Enthesitis (unilateral vs bilateral) was significantly and positively correlated with STE (r = 0.304, p = 0.036), cartilaginous erosions (r = 0.304, p = 0.036), and villous projections (r = 0.347, p = 0.016).

CONCLUSION

Subclinical synovitis and enthesitis are frequently found in the knee joint of patients with psoriasis. These may be an early sign of psoriatic arthritis.

Prevalence and predictive value of anti-cyclic citrullinated protein antibodies for future development of rheumatoid arthritis in early undifferentiated arthritis

The aim of this study is to evaluate the prevalence and predictive value of anti-cyclic citrullinated protein (CCP) antibodies as a diagnostic marker for future development of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in a cohort of patients presenting with undifferentiated arthritis (UA). The study comprised 69 patients (22 males and 47 females) presenting with UA, and 66 healthy subjects as control group. For all patients the following parameters were assessed: swollen joint count (SJC), tender joint count (TJC), and duration of morning stiffness in minutes. Baseline laboratory investigations included erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) first hour, C-reactive protein (CRP), complete blood count, complete liver and kidney function tests, urine analysis, anti-nuclear antibodies, rheumatoid factor (RF), and anti-CCP antibodies. Positive correlations were observed between anti-CCP versus SJC, TJC (p = 0.001), duration of morning stiffness (p = 0.04), ESR first hour, and bone erosive changes (p = 0.001). Anti-CCP showed sensitivity of 57%, specificity of 37.9%, positive predictive value of 65.1%, and negative predictive value of 39.3%. Sensitivity and positive predictive values of anti-CCP are close to those observed for RF. In patients presenting with UA, anti-CCP antibodies may allow prediction of RA, thereby allowing early individualized therapeutic decisions.

Differentiation of osteoporotic and neoplastic vertebral fractures by chemical shift {in-phase and out-of phase} MR imaging

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to establish the cut-off value of the signal intensity drop on chemical shift magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with appropriate sensitivity and specificity to differentiate osteoporotic from neoplastic wedging of the spine.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

All patients with wedging of vertebral bodies were included consecutively between February 2006 and January 2007. A chemical shift MRI was performed and signal intensity after (in-phase and out-phase) images were obtained. A DXA was performed in all.

RESULTS

A total of 40 patients were included, 20 with osteoporotic wedging (group 1) and 20 neoplastic (group 2). They were 21 males and 19 females. Acute vertebral collapse was observed in 15 patients in group 1 and subacute collapse in another 5 patients, while in group 2, 11 patients showed acute collapse and 9 patients (45%) showed subacute vertebral collapse. On the chemical shift MRI a substantial reduction in signal intensity was found in all lesions in both groups. The proportional changes observed in signal intensity of bone marrow lesions on in-phase compared with out-of-phase images showed significant differences in both groups (P<0.05). At a cut-off value of 35%, the observed sensitivity of out-of-phase images was 95%, specificity was 100%, positive predictive value was 100% and negative predictive value was 95.2%.

CONCLUSION

A chemical shift MRI is useful in order to differentiate patients with vertebral collapse due to underlying osteoporosis or neoplastic process.

Hippocampus dysfunction may explain symptoms of fibromyalgia syndrome. A study with single-voxel magnetic resonance spectroscopy

OBJECTIVE

(1) To investigate dysfunction of hippocampus in patients with fibromyalgia syndrome (FM) using proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS), and to compare these findings with healthy controls. (2) To correlate levels of metabolites obtained with aspects of cognition, depression, and sleep symptoms in the patient group.

METHODS

The case-control study was performed in 15 female patients, who met American College of Rheumatology criteria for classification of FM, and 10 healthy age-matched female controls. Patients and controls were receiving no medications known to affect cognitive functioning or central nervous system metabolites before their participation in the study. In all patients and controls, 1H-MRS was used to assess N-acetylaspartate (NAA), choline (Cho), creatine (Cr), and their ratios from both hippocampi. Levels of metabolites and their ratios were determined and the findings compared between the groups. All patients and controls underwent psychological assessment to assess cognitive function, depression, and structured sleep interview with sleep diary; Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ), number of tender points, and visual analog scale (VAS) for pain were assessed in all patients.

RESULTS

NAA levels of right and left hippocampi differed significantly between patients and controls (p < 0.05). Cho levels in the right hippocampus were higher in the patient group than in controls (p = 0.005), while no differences were found with respect to Cr levels in both hippocampi. NAA/Cho and NAA/Cr ratios differed significantly between patients and controls (p <0.05), while the Cho/Cr ratio showed no differences. Significant correlations were found between language score and right Cho and right Cr levels (p = 0.041, p = 0.006, respectively), while no significant correlations were found between metabolites and their ratios with FIQ, VAS for pain, or number of tender points.

CONCLUSION

The hippocampus was dysfunctional in patients with FM, as shown by lower NAA levels compared to controls, representing neuronal or axonal metabolic dysfunction. As the hippocampus plays crucial roles in maintenance of cognitive functions, sleep regulation, and pain perception, we suggest that metabolic dysfunction of hippocampus may be implicated in the appearance of these symptoms associated with this puzzling syndrome.

Bone marrow edema syndromes of the hip: MRI features in different hip disorders

The objectives of this study were to describe the essential magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features of bone marrow edema syndromes affecting the hip joint. In addition, to evaluate the role of MRI in the assessment of hip joint involvement in different clinical settings that may share similar clinical findings. Thirty-four patients who complained of hip pain were studied consecutively. Of these, 21 were men (61.8%) and 13 were women (38.2%). After clinical assessment of possible hip disease, plain radiograph and MRI study of both hips were performed. The literature was searched using keywords: bone marrow edema, hip, and MRI. All patients had antalgic gait and limping. Initial clinical examination revealed painful limited internal and external rotation of the affected hip/hips suspect for hip disease. Unilateral hip involvement was identified in 31 patients (91.2%), and bilateral hip involvement was found in three patients (8.8%), with a total of 37 hips evaluated by MRI. The final diagnoses in our patients were: reactive arthritis (1), transient osteoporosis (7), avascular necrosis (10), osteoarthritis (2), tuberculous arthritis (4), septic arthritis (2), osteomyelitis (2), sickle cell anemia (2), lymphocytic leukemia (1), and femoral stress fracture (3). Bone marrow edema affecting the hip is neither a specific MR imaging finding nor a specific diagnosis and may be encountered in a variety of hip disorders due to different etiologies. MR imaging is the modality of choice when clinical examination is suspect for hip disease and plain radiographs are normal or equivocal. Early diagnosis and treatment is important in many of the disorders. The literature is reviewed regarding bone marrow edema of the hip.

Hughes–Stovin syndrome: is it incomplete Behçet’s?

In this report, we described two male patients with Hughes-Stovin syndrome. The first patient was a 26-year-old male who initially presented with deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in the right lower limb followed shortly by hemoptysis. Pulmonary CT angiography revealed bilateral pulmonary artery aneurysms secondary to underlying pulmonary vasculitis. While the second case was a 16-year-old male patient who initially presented with generalized fits due to sagittal sinus thrombosis and later followed by DVT in the left lower limb. Pulmonary CT angiography showed small pulmonary artery aneurysms with thrombosis of peripheral pulmonary artery branches. Both patients were treated successfully with steroids and immunosuppressive therapy and showed clinical improvement.

Inflammatory synovitis due to underlying lipoma arborescens (gadolinium-enhanced MRI features): report of two cases

Lipoma arborescens (synovial lipomatosis) is a rare, benign intra-articular lesion of unknown etiology. It is a very rare primary benign tumour of the synovium, which usually affects the knee joint and can lead to slowly progressive chronically swollen knee. In this report we described two cases with this rare entity with initial presentation of inflammatory synovitis. We also described the Gadolinium (Gd-DTPA)-enhanced MRI features. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report that described inflammatory synovitis in association with this rare entity.

Arthritis in a child secondary to congenital insensitivity to pain and self-aggression. Why and when pain is good?

A 9 year-old female child presented with recurrent arthritis of ankles, left knee and unequal leg length. Clinical examination revealed mild valgus deformity in her left knee with grade 2 effusion, arthritis of both ankles and deformity in her left wrist. Examination of the affected joints showed no evidence of tenderness upon active or passive movements and the patient did not show any limping upon gait analysis. Past history of the patient revealed evidence of previous dislocation of her left hip and previous fibular fracture. Revision of her previous x-rays showed left hip dislocation, fracture left fibula and fracture of right metatarsal bone after repetitive trauma which pass unnoticed. Recent x-ray of her left knee showed osteochondral injury. Laboratory investigations were done to rule out common causes of childhood arthritis and revealed: ESR 12 1st hours, CRP negative, negative rheumatoid factor, and negative ANA. Neurological evaluation of the patient documented congenital insensitivity to pain and EMG studies confirmed evidence of sensory neuropathy. Traumatic arthritis resulting from congenital insensitivity to pain with self-aggression is rarely encountered in children but should be considered in the differential diagnosis specially if radiological features point to repetitive trauma with attempts of healing.

Liposynovitis prepatellaris in athletic runner (Hoffa's syndrome): case report and review of the literature

A 37-year-old male patient, who is an athletic runner, developed anterior knee pain of acute onset after prolonged running and swelling of his right knee. The patient experiences more pain when he flexes the knee and a sense of catching together with grade 1 effusion. The patient was clinically suspected to have internal derangement and MRI study of his right knee was ordered to exclude such possible diagnosis. The MRI study revealed the following: a hypointense lesion in the infrapatellar pad of fat in T2-weighted images (WI), postcontrast T1 WI with fat saturation demonstrated no enhancement, and STIR sequence showed slightly hyperintense lesion with minimal knee effusion. The MRI findings supported the diagnosis of Hoffa's syndrome, and arthroscopic resection of the fat pad was performed. There was a significant improvement in the symptoms and function after the surgery.

A case of polyarteritis nodosa complicated by left central retinal artery occlusion, ischemic optic neuropathy, and retinal vasculitis

A 23-year-old single female patient developed constitutional manifestations in the form of fever, weight loss, anorexia, malaise, fatigue, and generalized aches in January 1995, 2 weeks after an attack of German measles. This was followed by painful, reddish, macular skin lesions over both legs which healed by dark pigmentation (leucocytoclastic vasculitis), mononeuritis multiplex, and Raynaud's phenomena of both hands and feet. Angiography of lower limbs was done to visualize the arterial tree of both lower limbs and revealed typical beading of distal arterial branches, a diagnosis compatible with polyarteritis nodosa (PAN). At that time, the patient received prednisone (45 mg/day) and azatioprin (100 mg/day) and responded well to treatment. In a second presentation in June 2005, the patient developed sudden attack of loss of vision in her left eye. Ophthalmological examination of the patient revealed evidence of left central retinal artery occlusion, ischemic optic neuropathy. The patient received methyl prednisolone, 1 g IV infusion, daily infusion for three consecutive days followed by oral prednisolone, 30 mg/day. The patient received pulse cyclophosphamide IV infusion (0.6 g/m2) on the fourth day. One week after receiving therapy, the patient progressed from having light perception to counting of fingers from a distance of 1 m.