What is the rational for mesenchymal stromal cells based therapies in the management of hemophilic arthropathies?

Hemophilia A and B are rare X-linked genetic bleeding disorders due to a complete or partial deficiency in the coagulation factors VIII or IX, respectively. The main treatment for hemophilia is prophylactic and based on coagulation factor replacement therapies. These treatments have significantly reduced bleeding and improved the patients' quality of life. Nevertheless, repeated joint bleedings (hemarthroses), even subclinical hemarthroses, can lead to hemophilic arthropathy (HA). This disabling condition is characterized by chronic pain due to synovial inflammation, cartilage and bone destruction requiring ultimately joint replacement. HA resembles to rheumatoid arthritis because of synovitis but HA is considered as having similarities with osteoarthritis as illustrated by the migration of immune cells, production of inflammatory cytokines, synovial hypertrophy and cartilage damage. Various drugs have been evaluated for the management of HA with limited success. The objective of the review is to discuss new therapeutic approaches with a special focus on the studies that have investigated the potential of using mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) in the management of HA. A systematic review of the literature has been made. Most of the studies have focused on the interest of MSCs for the delivery of missing factors VIII or IX but in some studies, more insight on the effect of MSC injection on synovial inflammation or cartilage structure were provided and put in perspective for possible clinical applications.

Physical therapy for end-stage hemophilic arthropathy: a case report

This report introduces a young adult who has been in bed for more than ten years with end-stage hemophilic arthropathy. He didn't have access to factor VIII (FVIII) in the early stage of hemophilia due to the high costs of clotting replacement therapy. As a result, he is experiencing some difficulties, such as joint contracture, muscular atrophy, severe pain, and poor function of cardiopulmonary. He came to visit us for a comprehensive rehabilitation program, and, finally, he achieved the basic goal of self-care in daily life.

Targeted delivery of miR125a-5p and human Factor VIII attenuates molecular mediators of hemophilic arthropathy

Hemophilic arthropathy (HA) due to repeated bleeding into the joint cavity is a major cause of morbidity in patients with hemophilia. The molecular mechanisms contributing to this condition are not well characterized. MicroRNAs (miRs) are known to modulate the phenotype of multiple joint diseases such as osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Since miR125a is known to modulate disease progression in OA and RA, we performed a targeted screen of miR125a-5p and its target genes in a murine model of chronic HA. A digital PCR analysis demonstrated significant downregulation of miR125a-5p (2-fold vs control joint). Further molecular evaluation revealed elevated expression of the immunological markers STAT1 (7.6-fold vs control joint) and TRAF6 (10.6 fold vs control joint), which are direct targets of miR125a-5p. We then studied the impact of targeted overexpression of miR125a-5p using an Adeno-associated virus (AAV) vector in modulating the molecular mediators of HA. AAV5-miR125a vectors were administered intra-articularly either alone or in combination with a low dose of AAV8-based human factor 8 (F8) gene in a murine model of HA. We observed significantly increased expression of miR125a-5p in AAV5-miR125a administered mice (~12 fold vs injured joint) or in combination with AAV8-F8 vectors (~44 fold vs injured joint). The activity assay revealed ~17 %-20 % FVIII levels in mice that received low dose liver-directed F8 gene therapy. Further immunohistochemical analysis, demonstrated a decrease in inflammatory markers (STAT1 and TRAF6) and cartilage-degrading matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) 3, 9, 13 in the joints of treated animals. These data highlight the crucial role of miR125a-5p in the development of HA.

Red blood cell exposure increases chondrocyte susceptibility to oxidative stress following hemarthrosis

OBJECTIVE

The detrimental effects of blood exposure on articular tissues are well characterized, but the individual contributions of specific whole blood components are yet to be fully elucidated. Better understanding of mechanisms that drive cell and tissue damage in hemophilic arthropathy will inform novel therapeutic strategies. The studies here aimed to identify the specific contributions of intact and lysed red blood cells (RBCs) on cartilage and the therapeutic potential of Ferrostatin-1 in the context of lipid changes, oxidative stress, and ferroptosis.

METHODS

Changes to biochemical and mechanical properties following intact RBC treatment were assessed in human chondrocyte-based tissue-engineered cartilage constructs and validated against human cartilage explants. Chondrocyte monolayers were assayed for changes to intracellular lipid profiles and the presence of oxidative and ferroptotic mechanisms.

RESULTS

Markers of tissue breakdown were observed in cartilage constructs without parallel losses in DNA (control: 786.3 (102.2) ng/mg; RBCINT: 751 (126.4) ng/mg; P = 0.6279), implicating nonlethal chondrocyte responses to intact RBCs. Dose-dependent loss of viability in response to intact and lysed RBCs was observed in chondrocyte monolayers, with greater toxicity observed with lysates. Intact RBCs induced changes to chondrocyte lipid profiles, upregulating highly oxidizable fatty acids (e.g., FA 18:2) and matrix disrupting ceramides. RBC lysates induced cell death via oxidative mechanisms that resemble ferroptosis.

CONCLUSIONS

Intact RBCs induce intracellular phenotypic changes to chondrocytes that increase vulnerability to tissue damage while lysed RBCs have a more direct influence on chondrocyte death by mechanisms that are representative of ferroptosis.

Soft Tissue Pathology

A wide spectrum of pathologies can lead to soft tissue abnormalities within the ankle joint. Many of these disorders can develop into irreversible joint degeneration if left untreated. Arthroscopy is frequently used to treat these soft tissue conditions such as instability, synovitis, impingement, arthrofibrosis, and other inflammatory disorders in the rearfoot and ankle. In general, the etiology of these ankle soft tissue disorders can be classified as traumatic, inflammatory, and congenital/neoplastic. Overall, the goal of diagnosing and treating soft tissue pathologies of the ankle is to restore anatomic and physiologic motion, reduce pain, optimize functional return to activity, and decrease the chance of recurrence while minimizing complications.

The role of intraarticular injections of hyaluronic acid in joint pain relief in hemophilic arthropathy

INTRODUCTION

Chronic pain in hemophilic patients is due to joint degeneration associated with hemophilic arthropathy. In addition to appropriate hematological treatment (primary prophylaxis), pharmacologic management and Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation should be indicated. When such measures are not sufficient, intraarticular injections (IAIs) of hyaluronic acid (HyA) may be considered.

AREAS COVERED

In order to determine whether IAIs of HyA are effective in terms of pain relief in individuals with painful moderate hemophilic arthropathy, a PubMed and Cochrane Library search using 'hemophilia hyaluronic acid' as keywords was performed on 18 July 2023.

EXPERT OPINION

In a study of individuals with hemophilic arthropathy (elbows, knees and ankles), 91% of them improved pain after a mean follow-up of 6 years. In another study of individuals with knee arthropathy, after a 7-year follow-up 82% reported an improvement in pain. As for hemophilic ankle arthropathy, in a study 67% of patients showed relief of joint pain at 6-month follow-up. Although the literature on the subject is very heterogeneous and difficult to interpret, it appears that IAIs of HyA can relieve the joint pain of painful moderate hemophilic arthropathy for months. Moreover, the IAIs can be repeated every 6-12 months.

A Retrospective, Long-term Follow-up of the Clinical Outcomes and Cost-effectiveness of Single-anesthetic Multiple Total Joint Procedures in Hemophilic Arthropathy

OBJECTIVE

Although total joint replacement (TJR) procedures are efficacious, perioperative high-dose factors replacement therapy (FRT) to avoid catastrophic bleeding represents a significant hurdle, particularly for patients with multiple joint affection. Double simultaneous bilateral TJRs were reported as safe and cost-effective. However, little is known about multiple TJRs. The feasibility and effects remain debatable. Surgeons need to weigh the high cost of FRT against safety. Accordingly, we aimed to evaluate the clinical outcomes and cost-effectiveness of single-anesthetic multiple-joint procedures of lower limbs in end-stage hemophilic arthropathy.

METHODS

Our retrospective cohort study retrieved data from an inpatient database of patients with hemophilia who underwent total knee arthroplasty (TKA), total hip arthroplasty (THA), and/or ankle arthrodesis from January 2000 to April 2016. Complications, hospital stays, transfusion, doses of clotting factor, medical costs, range of motion (ROM), Harris hip scores (HHSs) and Hospital for special surgery knee scores (HSSs) were recorded. A P value < 0.05 was considered significant.

RESULTS

A total number of 81 patients were included in this study, among which 89 TKAs and 52 THAs were performed. Compared to the single TJR group, the simultaneous multiple TJR group showed a significantly higher rate of blood transfusions (P < 0.05). But no significant differences were found in the length of hospital stays, factor consumption, hospitalization costs excluding prosthesis expenses, and total complication rates. Finally, similar postoperative ROM, HHS, and HSS were witnessed in two groups (P value > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Our data indicated that simultaneous multiple TJRs are a safe and cost-effective choice for treating hemophilic patients with multiple HA-affected lower limb joints.

Total Hip Arthroplasty in Patients with Hemophilia: What Do We know?

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is the mainstay therapy for terminally hemophilic arthropathy patients. Hemophilic patients have distinguishing characteristics, including the increased likelihood of bleeding, younger age, restricted pre-operative joint motion, disrupted anatomy, and more post-operative side effects. The present study aimed to assess the THA sequels in hemophilic patients from various perspectives, including indications, challenges, factor replacement post-operative outcomes, and other complications.

Desferoxamine protects against hemophilic arthropathy through the upregulation of HIF-1α-BNIP3 mediated mitophagy

AIMS

Hemophilic arthropathy (HA) is a typically iron overload induced joint disease secondary to continuous joint bleeding, however, the exact role of iron chelators in HA has not been fully elucidated. In the present study, we investigated whether desferoxamine (DFO), an iron chelator, could limit the development of HA and the underlying mechanisms.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A HA mice model was established by needle puncture in the left knees of FVIII-deficient hemophilic mice. HA progression was evaluated at 8 weeks after DFO administration. Moreover, chondrocytes were treated with ferric ammonium citrate (FAC) to mimic iron overload in vitro. Modulating effect of DFO on iron overload induced oxidative stress, chondrocytes apoptosis and extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation and the role of HIF-1α-BNIP3 mediated mitophagy were examined.

KEY FINDINGS

We found that DFO limited the development of HA and protected iron overload induced ECM degradation, chondrocytes apoptosis and oxidative stress. Besides chelating Fe²⁺, we found that HIF-1α-BNIP3 mediated mitophagy played important roles in the protective effect of DFO. HIF-1α inhibition suppressed chondrocytes mitophagy process and partly diminished the protective effect of DFO on chondrocytes iron overload.

SIGNIFICANCE

In conclusion, DFO could protect against HA development via HIF-1α-BNIP3 mediated mitophagy, suggesting DFO might be a potential therapeutic supplement for HA treatment.

Clinical Evaluation of Balance in Children With Hemophilic Arthropathy

Purpose

Hemophilia is a hereditary coagulation disorder characterized by acute hemorrhages into the musculoskeletal system, leading eventually to arthropathy and disability. Chronic inflammation of the synovial membrane arises as a result of frequent joint hemorrhage. Proteolytic enzymes in the blood and cartilage cause deterioration after that, and joint space narrows. Chronic hemophilic arthropathy develops as a result of these unfavorable developments, which occur more quickly, especially in the target joints. Balance is a process that allows us to maintain our orientation in three-dimensional space while also regulating our body posture to avoid falling. After the central nervous system evaluates deep stimuli from sensory, visual, and auditory receptors, movement of the corresponding muscle groups is delivered.

Methods

The goal of this study was to investigate how impairment to deep sensory receptors (proprioception) in the arthropathic joint structure affected hemophiliacs' balance. The study comprised 34 patients with hemophilic arthropathy, and 34 age and weight matched healthy volunteers.

Results

When balance tests of patients with hemophilic arthropathy were compared to healthy controls, hemophiliacs had a greater risk of falling. As the degree of arthropathy increased, so did the risk of falling and balance test values in individuals with hemophilic arthropathy.

Conclusions

Treatment and coagulation factor prophylaxis to prevent the onset of arthropathy will improve patients' quality of life and reduce morbidity associated with frequent falls and bleeding.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12288-022-01526-0.

Current and Emerging Approaches for Pain Management in Hemophilic Arthropathy

Introduction

Hemophilia is an inherited bleeding hematological disorder characterized by the partial or complete deficiency of clotting factor VIII or IX. Hemophilic arthropathy is the consequence of repeated joint bleeding (hemarthrosis) and its management is based on the prevention of acute bleeding through the administration of the deficient clotting factor concentrate or non-factor therapies. In addition, the management of acute and chronic pain is pivotal in hemophilic arthropathy in order to restore function and allow rehabilitation of the joint.

Methods

We conducted a qualitative review of the literature regarding current and emerging strategies for pain treatment in hemophilic arthropathy. This review considers systemic and local pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions for acute and chronic pain management.

Results

In hemophilic arthropathy, pain management is based on analgesics such as paracetamol, which represents the first choice for acute and chronic pain in adults and children, in association with opioids for adults. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs inhibit platelet function, so that the currently preferred drugs are short courses of cyclooxygenase 2 inhibitors. Local treatment with intra-articular injections of corticosteroids is an option for refractory cases and physiotherapy has an important role after hemarthrosis and for the long-term management of chronic pain for both pediatric and adult patients.

Conclusions

The management of pain in hemophilia requires more standardization. Meanwhile, the safest drugs should be used at the lowest effective dosage and for periods as short as possible. For the non-pharmacological management of pain in these patients, a multidisciplinary team including hematologists, orthopedic surgeons, rheumatologists, and physiotherapists is warranted.

A semiquantitative color Doppler ultrasound scoring system for evaluation of synovitis in joints of patients with blood-induced arthropathy

Background

Intra-articular bleeds in patients with inherited bleeding disorders lead to active synovitis which may progress to a chronic state over time. We explored the diagnostic value of color Doppler ultrasound in detecting synovitis in boys with bleeding disorders.

Results

Sixty boys with hemophilia and 3 boys with type 3 von Willebrand disease aged 5 to 18 years (median 12.3 years) were imaged by gray-scale and color Doppler ultrasound (US) in three centers (Beijing, China [n = 22], Guangzhou, China [n = 12] and Toronto, Canada [n = 29])) in this observational study. Images were independently reviewed by two radiologists blinded to clinical data using a subjective semi-quantitative scoring system and objective measurements of synovial thickness and vascularity. Inter-reader reliability for using subjective versus objective color Doppler US methods for assessing synovial vascularity was excellent for the subjective method and moderate/lower range of substantial for the objective method. Agreement between degree of vascularity on color Doppler and extent of synovial hypertrophy on gray-scale US was overall poor for Canada data and moderate for China data. Correlations between degree of vascularity on color Doppler and synovial hypertrophy on gray-scale US, and clinical constructs (total and itemized HJHS scores and total Pettersson X-ray scores) for assessment of blood-induced arthropathy were all poor.

Conclusion

Color Doppler US is a valuable scoring method for evaluating reactive synovitis in joints of subjects with inherited bleeding disorders and holds potential for assessing post-bleed reactive synovitis once further information on its association with timing of the joint bleed becomes available in the literature.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13244-021-01043-0.

Hemosiderin deposition evaluation in hemophilic ankle joints: association between US finding and gradient-recalled echo MR imaging sequence

Background

Repeated bleeding in hemophilic arthropathy (HA) may result in severe degenerative changes and joint destruction. The gradient-recalled echo (GRE) sequence MR is proved to be the best method to detect hemosiderin deposition. However, MR is not widely available in developing countries, including Indonesia. Some studies have proposed ultrasonography (US) as an alternative tool in evaluating hemophilic joint. However, there is still some disagreement on the ability of US to detect hemosiderin deposition.

Objective

To evaluate the association between US and GRE-sequence MR imaging in detecting hemosiderin deposition in hemophilic ankle joint.

Material and methods

A total of 102 sites from 17 ankle joints of 11 boys with severe hemophilia A underwent US examination using a high-frequency linear array transducer. GRE-sequence MR examination was performed in sagittal view consistent with the sites scanned by US. Both examinations were performed on the same day, but MR interpretation was performed blindly at different times. The association between US and GRE-sequences in detecting hemosiderin deposition was analyzed using McNemar’s test.

Results

Statistical analysis showed a significant association (p value < 0.001) between US and GRE MR in detecting hemosiderin deposition, but the association is weak (R = 0.26). Sensitivity and specificity of US for detecting hemosiderin deposition were 46.84% (95%CI: 35.51–58.40) and 95.65% (95%CI: 78.05–99.89), respectively, with positive predictive value 97.37% (95%CI: 84.29–99.61), negative predictive value 34.38% (95%CI: 29.50–39.60) and accuracy 57.84% (95%CI: 47.66–67.56).

Conclusion

There was a weak association between US and GRE-sequences in detecting hemosiderin deposition of hemophilic ankle joint. ​​

Impact of the HEAD-US Scoring System for Observing the Protective Effect of Prophylaxis in Hemophilia Patients: A Prospective, Multicenter, Observational Study

Objective:

This study aimed to observe the preventive effect of prophylactic treatment on joint health in people with hemophilia (PwH) and to investigate the importance of integration of ultrasonographic examination into clinical and radiological evaluation of the joints.

Materials and Methods:

This national, multicenter, prospective, observational study included male patients aged ≥6 years with the diagnosis of moderate or severe hemophilia A or B from 8 centers across Turkey between January 2017 and March 2019. Patients were followed for 1 year with 5 visits (baseline and 3^rd, 6^th, 9^th, and 12^th month visits). The Hemophilia Joint Health Score (HJHS) was used for physical examination of joints, the Pettersson scoring system was used for radiological assessment, point-of-care (POC) ultrasonography was used for bilateral examinations of joints, and the Hemophilia Early Arthropathy Detection with Ultrasound (HEAD-US) score was used for evaluation of ultrasonography results.

Results:

Seventy-three PwH, of whom 62 had hemophilia A and 11 had hemophilia B, were included and 24.7% had target joints at baseline. The HJHS and HEAD-US scores were significantly increased at the 12^th month in all patients. These scores were also higher in the hemophilia A subgroup than the hemophilia B subgroup. However, in the childhood group, the increment of scores was not significant. The HEAD-US total score was significantly correlated with both the HJHS total score and Pettersson total score at baseline and at the 12^th month.

Conclusion:

The HEAD-US and HJHS scoring systems are valuable tools during follow-up examinations of PwH and they complement each other. We suggest that POC ultrasonographic evaluation and the HEAD-US scoring system may be integrated into differential diagnosis of bleeding and long-term monitoring for joint health as a routine procedure.

Manual therapy reduces the frequency of clinical hemarthrosis and improves range of motion and perceived disability in patients with hemophilic elbow arthropathy. A randomized, single-blind, clinical trial

PURPOSE

To evaluate the effectiveness of manual therapy in reducing the frequency of clinical hemarthrosis, increasing range of motion and improving the perception of disability in the upper limbs in patients with hemophilic elbow arthropathy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Sixty-nine patients were randomized into experimental (N = 35) and control group (N = 34). The outcome measures were: frequency of clinical hemarthrosis, the elbow range of motion and the perception of disability in the upper limbs (DASH questionnaire). The intervention included one 50 min weekly session, for three weeks, of upper limb fascial therapy according to our treatment protocol.

RESULTS

There were differences (p < 0.001) in the repeated measures analysis for frequency of elbow clinical hemarthrosis (F = 20.64) and range of motion in flexion (F = 17.37) and extension (F = 21.71). No differences were found in the overall perceived disability (F = 0.91; p = .37). We found group interaction with the (p < 0.001) in the frequency of elbow clinical hemarthrosis, range of motion and overall perceived disability.

CONCLUSIONS

Manual therapy is safe in patients with hemophilia and elbow arthropathy. Fascial therapy reduces the frequency of hemarthrosis, increases the range of motion and improves the perceived disability in the upper limbs. Trial registration number: id NCT03009591IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATIONImpairments in the range of motion, pain and disability may occur in patients with hemophilic elbow arthropathy since early age.There is a need to validate safe and effectiveness protocols of rehabilitation to treat these patients.Prophylactic replacement is the most effective treatment for the prevention of hemarthrosis.Physiotherapists need to be trained in the specific management of patients with hemophilia.Manual therapy can be a safe and effective tool in the treatment of hemophilic arthropathy.

Total Knee Arthroplasty in Patients with Hemophilia: What Do We Know?

Total knee arthroplasty is considered as the treatment of choice for those with end stage hemophilic arthropathy. Compared to other patients undergoing TKA, these patients have specific features such as bleeding tendency, younger age, pre-operative restricted range of motion (ROM), altered anatomy, and increased complications. This narrative review of literature is going to investigate several issues regarding the TKA in hemophilic patients including indications, perioperative factor replacement, surgical challenges, postoperative rehabilitation, outcomes, and complications.

Self-Myofascial Release Intervention and Mobile App in Patients With Hemophilic Ankle Arthropathy: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial

Background

Hemophilic ankle arthropathy is manifested by degenerative functional alterations and chronic pain. Myofascial release techniques are used to treat soft tissue adhesions, relieve pain, and reduce tissue sensitivity.

Objective

This study aims to evaluate the safety and efficacy of a protocol using self-myofascial release with a foam roller to be applied in patients with hemophilic ankle arthropathy.

Methods

Patients with ankle arthropathy (N=70) will be recruited, enrolled, and assigned to one of two groups—experimental or control—in a 1:1 allocation ratio. Patients will be recruited from 5 centers in different regions of Spain. Patient data will be collected at baseline, posttreatment, and follow-up. The primary outcome will be frequency of ankle joint bleeding (self-reported). The secondary outcomes will be ankle range of motion (measured with a digital goniometer); joint pain (measured with a visual analog scale and an algometer); joint status (measured using the Hemophilia Joint Health Score); muscle strength (measured with a dynamometer); functionality of lower limbs (measured using the 6-minute walking test); activity (self-reported); and muscle flexibility (measured using the fingertip-to-floor test). The treatment program includes 11 exercises that must be administered bilaterally. A mobile app will be developed where each patient will be able to observe the exercises to be carried out. Each session will last 15 minutes with 5 physiotherapy sessions per week for a period of 3 months. It is expected that patients with hemophilia who receive the foam roller intervention will show improvement in mobility, pain, and status of the ankle joint; muscle strength; and function in the lower extremities.

Results

The study has been approved by the institutional review board of the University of Murcia. Patient recruitment will begin in September 2020, and the intervention period will last until June 2021. Data collection will take place between September 2020 and October 2021.

Conclusions

This protocol describes a randomized clinical trial to examine the safety and efficacy of a self-myofascial release intervention using a foam roller in patients with hemophilic ankle arthropathy.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03914287; http://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03914287.

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

PRR1-10.2196/15612

Safety and effectiveness of fascial therapy in the treatment of adult patients with hemophilic elbow arthropathy: a pilot study

Background: Hemophilic arthropathy is characterized by loss of function and chronic pain. Fascial therapy mobilizes the connective tissue and is thus involved in the condition of the injured fascial complex and the surrounding tissues.Objective: To evaluate the safety of a physiotherapy program using fascial therapy in patients with hemophilic elbow arthropathy.Methods: Fourteen adult patients with hemophilia were randomly assigned to a control group and an intervention group. The intervention consisted of three 45-min sessions of fascial therapy over a 3-week period. Assessment was carried out at baseline, after treatment, and at follow-up. The study variables were bleeding frequency using a self-registration of bleeding; joint pain using the visual analog scale; range of motion with a universal goniometer; and joint status assessed with Hemophilia Joint Health Score.Results: None of the patients developed joint bleeding during the experimental period. Joint pain in the experimental group decreased by 1.43 out of 2.43 (95% CI 0.52 to 2.33) and 2.14 out of 2.57 (95% CI 0.18 to 4.10) in right and left elbow, respectively, more than the control group by 3 weeks. Flexion increased by 3.57 degrees out of 129.14 (95% CI 5.48 to 1.65) in right elbow and joint condition improved by 1.14 points out of 6.0 (95% CI 0.01 to 2.26) more than the control group by 3 weeks.Conclusion: Fascial therapy does not appear to produce elbow hemarthrosis in patients with hemophilia. This treatment can improve joint pain, range of motion, and elbow status in patients with hemophilia.

[Clinical study on factor Ⅷ inhibitor in children with hemophilia A]

目的

探讨血友病A（HA）患儿凝血因子Ⅷ（FⅧ）抑制物产生的相关因素及抑制物产生前后出血与关节病表现的差异。

方法

对2015年1月至2018年8月河南省血友病管理中心登记收治的381例16岁以下HA患儿进行回顾性分析。

结果

381例HA患儿中，轻型116例（30.4%），中间型196例（51.4%），重型69例（18.1%）。FⅧ抑制物阳性患者54例（14.2%），高滴度、低滴度分别为22、32例。血友病家族史与FⅧ抑制物阳性相关[P<0.001，OR=3.299（95%CI 1.743~5.983）]；高强度暴露与FⅧ抑制物的产生相关[P=0.002，OR=2.587（95%CI 1.414~4.731）]。高强度暴露与高滴度FⅧ抑制物产生相关[P=0.001，OR=8.689（95%CI 2.464~30.638）]。54例HA患者产生抑制物后，总体关节年出血率、创伤性年出血率增加（z=−3.440，P=0.001；z=−2.232，P=0.026），而非关节年出血率、自发性年出血率与抑制物产生前比较差异无统计学意义（z=−1.342，P=0.180；z=−1.414，P=0.157）。关节超声评分较产生抑制物前差异无统计学意义（z=−0.632，P=0.527）。

结论

血友病家族史、高强度暴露可增加HA患儿发生FⅧ抑制物的风险，且高强度暴露可增加HA患者出现高滴度抑制物的风险。

Total knee arthroplasty in hemophilia A

Hemophilia A is a rare genetic disorder involving a deficiency of clotting factor VIII. Coagulation factor replacement therapy has prolonged the life expectancy of patients with hemophilia, but recurrent hemarthrosis of major joints is often a common occurrence. Therefore, orthopaedic adult reconstructive surgeons increasingly encounter hemophilic arthropathy in young adults and consider treating with total joint arthroplasty. In this report, the authors describe a patient with hemophilia A and severe knee osteoarthritis, who was subsequently treated with primary total knee arthroplasty. This rare case is an opportunity to explore a variety of unique clinical scenarios specific to patients with hemophilia, including the maintenance of optimal factor VIII levels through clotting factor infusions and prevention of a venous thromboembolic event.

Yttrium-90 radiosynovectomy in knees and ankles (25 joints in 22 hemophilic patients). Short-term results

Introduction

The radiosynovectomy (RS) is one treatment option for recurrent hemarthrosis in patients with hemophilia (PWH). A prospective cohort study was designed to evaluate the effects of the RS on the synovial membrane volume in the ankles and knees of PWH and patient characteristics related to the RS outcome.

Methods

In a one-year follow-up, 25 joints of 22 PWH who presented 3 bleeds or more in the same joint over the last 6 months (target joints) were subjected to the RS. Two groups were compared: those who retained target joints following the RS and those who did not (less than 3 bleeds/6 months after the RS). The groups were analyzed according to age, hemophilia type/severity, joint, body mass index (BMI), inhibitor and Hemophilia Joint Health Score 2.1 (HJHS). The magnetic resonance images (MRI) of six ankles and six knees were acquired prior to, and 6 months after, the RS. The synovial membrane volume and arthropathy MRI scale were accessed and volumes were compared and correlated with the Yttrium-90 dose injected.

Results

Patients with a mean age of 12 years and a mean HJHS of 6.7 (p < 0.05) retained target joints after the RS. The inhibitor, joint, type/severity of disease and BMI showed no significant differences between groups. The synovial membrane volume had a significant reduction after the RS (p = 0.03), but no correlation with the Yttrium-90 dose. In proportion to the synovial membrane volume, doses injected to the ankles were larger than those injected to the knees.

Conclusion

The synovial membrane volume is reduced after the RS, regardless of the effective 90Y dose.

Curcumin: hopeful treatment of hemophilic arthropathy via inhibition of inflammation and angiogenesis

Introduction: Hemophilic arthropathy (HA) is a serious complication among hemophilic patients causing a wide range of morbidity due to the inflammatory reactions followed by repeated episodes of bleeding. This condition has recently been shown to be accompanied by angiogenesis. The cascade starts with iron accumulation leading to an increase in CD⁶⁸⁺ and CD^11b+ cells responsible for initiating the inflammation.Areas covered: During inflammation, different factors and cytokines such as interleukin 1 (IL-1), IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) actively play parts in the pathogenesis of HA and also angiogenesis. It has been demonstrated that different pro-angiogenic and angiogenic factors such as hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), oxidative stress and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are also important in the pathogenesis of HA. Curcumin is known for its strong anti-inflammatory and anti-angiogenic potentials. This agent is able to inhibit the mentioned inflammatory and angiogenic factors such as IL-1, IL-6, TNF-α, VEGF, MMPs, and HIF-1α. Also, as well as anti-angiogenic and anti-inflammatory activity, curcumin has a strong antioxidant potential and can decrease oxidative stress.Expert opinion: It seems that curcumin could be considered as a possible agent for the treatment of HA through inhibition of inflammation, oxidative stress, and angiogenesis.

Merging into the mainstream: the evolution of the role of point-of-care musculoskeletal ultrasound in hemophilia

Bleeding with resultant hemophilic arthropathy constitutes the largest cause of morbidity in patients with hemophilia. It results from repeated bleeding episodes in the joint and is characterized by synovial hypertrophy and cartilage and bony destruction. Hemophilic arthropathy assessment is a continually evolving process and is particularly challenging in children and young adults in whom joint disease may be missed or underestimated as obtaining serial "baseline" magnetic resonance imaging scans of multiple clinically asymptomatic or nearly asymptomatic joints may be unjustifiable and cost-ineffective. Musculoskeletal ultrasound-particularly, point-of-care musculoskeletal ultrasound-has emerged as a promising imaging modality for the early detection and management of hemophilic arthropathy, and for the evaluation of hemarthrosis and painful musculoskeletal episodes in patients with hemophilia. This review summarizes currently available data on the emerging role of this new imaging modality, its limitations, and gaps in knowledge. The review also raises unanswered questions, highlights the need for consolidated research efforts, and delineates future directions expected to advance this technology and optimize its use in this patient population.

A cohort study

BACKGROUND

Hemophilic arthropathy is characterized by loss of function and chronic pain. Fascial therapy mobilizes the connective tissue, intervening in the state of the injured fascial complex and the surrounding tissues.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study is to evaluate the safety of a physiotherapy program through fascial therapy in adult patients with hemophilic ankle arthropathy.

DESIGN

Prospective cohort study.

METHODS

Twenty-three adult patients with hemophilia from 26 to 65 years of age were recruited. The intervention consisted of three sessions of 45-minute fascial therapy for three consecutive weeks. An evaluation was carried out before as well as after treatment. The study variables were joint status (assessed with Hemophilia Joint Health Score), joint pain (using visual analogue scale), ankle range of motion (with a universal goniometer) and bleeding frequency (administering self-registration of bleeding). The mean difference was calculated using the Student's t-test for paired samples and using the Cohen formula we calculated the effect size of the dependent variables.

RESULTS

None of the patients developed muscular or articular bleeding during the treatment period. After treatment, significant improvements (p < 0.05) in plantar flexion, ankle pain under load and joint condition were observed in both ankles. Similarly, we found improvement in left ankle dorsiflexion.

CONCLUSIONS

The application of physiotherapy through fascial therapy does not appear to produce muscle or joint hemorrhages. A treatment through three sessions of fascial therapy may improve joint pain, mobility and joint ankle condition in patients with hemophilic arthropathy.

Range of motion after total knee arthroplasty in hemophilic arthropathy

BACKGROUND

Outcomes of total knee replacement in cases of hemophilic patients are worse than in patients who undergo operations due to osteoarthritis. Previous publications have reported varying rates of complications in hemophilic patients, such as infection and an unsatisfactory range of motion, which have influenced the survival of prostheses. Our retrospective study evaluated the data of hemophilic patients regarding changes in the development of the range of motion.

METHODS

The data and clinical outcomes of 72 total knee replacements in 45 patients with hemophilia types A and B were reviewed retrospectively. Patients were operated between 1998 and 2013. All of the patients were systematically followed up to record the range of motion and other parameters before and after surgery.

RESULTS

The mean preoperative flexion contracture was 17° ± 11° (range, 0°-40°), and it was 7° ± 12° (range, 0°-60°) postoperatively. The mean flexion of the knee was 73° ± 30° (range, 5°-135°) before the operation and 80° ± 19° (range, 30°-110°) at the last follow-up. The mean range of motion was 56° ± 34° (range, 0°-130°) before the operation and 73° ± 24° (range, 10°-110°) at the last follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Statistical analysis suggested that the range of motion could be improved until the 9th postoperative week. The patient should be operated on until the flexion contracture reaches 22° to obtain a contracture < 15° postoperatively or until the contracture reaches 12° to obtain less than 5°. The operation generally does not change the flexion of the knee in cases of hemophilic patients, but it reduces the flexion contracture and therefore improves the range.

Risk factors for postoperative complications of orthopedic surgery in patients with hemophilia: Second report

This study was conducted to investigate the incidence in patients with hemophilia of postoperative complications and risk factors for these complications. Overall, 12 (6.5%) patients developed a postoperative infection. There were 6 (3.4%) postoperative surgical site infections. The presence of an inhibitor was the only risk factor for surgical site infection. Risk factors for delayed wound healing were older age, higher preoperative serum albumin level and procedures other than joint replacement or arthroscopy. HIV infection status was not a risk factor for postoperative complications.

Manual therapy in the treatment of patients with hemophilia B and inhibitor

BACKGROUND

The main clinical manifestations of hemophilia are muscle and joint bleeding. Recurrent bleeding leads to a degenerative process known as hemophilic arthropathy. The development of inhibitors (antibodies against FVIII/FIX concentrates) is the main complication in the treatment of hemophilia. The objective was to assess the safety and efficacy of manual therapy treatment in a patient with hemophilia and inhibitor.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 26-year-old patient with hemophilia B and inhibitor received physiotherapy treatment based on manual therapy for 3 months, with a frequency of 2 sessions per week. The joint status was evaluated using the Hemophilia Joint Health Score; pain was assessed with the Visual Analog Scale; and the range of movement was evaluated using a universal goniometer. The patient developed no joint bleeding in the knees or ankles as a result of the physiotherapy treatment. Following treatment, improvements were noted in the range of movement of knees and ankles, the perception of pain in both knees, and ankle functionality.

CONCLUSIONS

Until now, manual therapy using joint traction was contraindicated in patients with hemophilia and inhibitor, as it was feared to cause possible joint bleeding. This is the first case study to address the safety and efficacy of manual therapy in a patient with hemophilia and an inhibitor. The results of this study may help to establish which manual therapy treatments are indicated in patients with hemophilic arthropathy and inhibitors. Thus, a physiotherapy program based on manual therapy may be safe in patients with hemophilia and inhibitor and such therapy may improve joint condition, pain, and joint range of motion in patients with hemophilia and inhibitor. Randomized clinical trials are needed to confirm the results of this case study.

Synovectomy using Samarium-153 Hydroxyapatite in the Elbows and Ankles of Patients with Hemophilic Arthropathy

This study aimed to evaluate synovectomy with samarium-153 hydroxyapatite (¹⁵³Sm-HA) in synovitis of the elbows and ankles of hemophilic patients. The synovectomy was performed using 185 MBq of ¹⁵³Sm-HA in 166 joints of 82 hemophilic patients, with a mean age of 24.4 years and follow-up of 12 and 42 months, comprising 63 ankles and 84 elbows. Arthropathy was characterized by recurrent joint bleeding. Episodes of hemarthrosis, use of clotting factors, and pain intensity were evaluated before and after treatment. Scintigraphic controls and adverse effects were also considered. Statistical analyses used P ≤ 0,005 as significant. The results pointed that (a) reduction in hemarthrosis was 78% and 68% in elbows and 82% and 72% in ankles; (b) use of clotting factors was 80% and 70% in elbows and 85% and 75% in ankles; (c) pain was 37% and 34% in elbows and 61% and 57% in ankles, after 12 and 42 months, respectively. Three cases of mild reactive synovitis were observed in ankles and four in elbows. There was no joint effusion in any of the cases. In conclusion, the use of ¹⁵³Sm-HA in elbows and ankles was effective, very safe, minimally invasive and showed consistency over time, is another material to utilize in median hemophilic joints.