Management results of a cohort of rheumatoid arthritis patients in a specialized comprehensive healthcare institution in Colombia / Resultados de gestión en una cohorte de pacientes con artritis reumatoide en una institución de atención integral especializada en Colombia

ABSTRACT Objective: To determine the management results in a cohort of patients with rheumatoid arthritis in a specialized integral healthcare institution for this disease in Colombia. Materials and methods: Descriptive cross-sectional study based on a cohort of rheumatoid arthritis patients according to ACR/EULAR 2010 criteria. The information was analysed based on consolidated data from clinical records and national reports in the period 2015-2018. Administrative records related to medication authorizations and prescriptions were considered. Sociodemographic variables, outcome indicators related to disease activity status and medication use percentage were evaluated. Results: As of June 30th 2018, 698 patients were identified, of which the female sex represented 83.8%, the general average age was 55.47 years, and the highest number of cases were in the 60-64 year age group. Of the patients, 68.3% were between remission and low disease activity. Seventy-three point one percent were managed with conventional disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs and a reduction in the use of biological therapy was recorded from 27.2% in 2016 to 17.8% at the end of the period. Conclusions: This study presents the management results of a comprehensive care model for patients with rheumatoid arthritis in Colombia, which managed to maintain the highest proportion of patients in low activity and remission as they had a longer follow-up time, to decrease the percentage of biological DMARDs use, and establish conventional DMARDs as the main therapeutic alternative.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Conocer los resultados de gestión en una cohorte de pacientes con artritis reumatoide en una institución de atención integral especializada en esta enfermedad en Colombia. Materiales y métodos: Estudio descriptivo de corte transversal, a partir de una cohorte de pacientes de artritis reumatoide, según criterios ACR/EULAR 2010. La información se analizó con base en los datos consolidados de historia clínica y reportes nacionales en el periodo 2015-2018. Se tuvieron en cuenta los registros administrativos relacionados con autorizaciones y prescripciones de medicamentos. Se evaluaron variables sociodemográficas, indicadores de resultado relacionados con el estado de actividad de la enfermedad y porcentaje de uso de medicamentos. Resultados: A 30 de junio de 2018, se identificaron 698 pacientes, de los cuales el 83,8% correspondió a sexo femenino; el promedio general de edad fue de 55,47 años y el grupo de edad de 60 a 64 años concentró el mayor número de casos. El 68,3% se ubicó entre remisión y actividad baja de la enfermedad. El 73,1% se encontró manejado con fármacos antirreumáticos modificadores de enfermedad convencionales y se registró una reducción de uso de terapia biológica desde el 27,2% en 2016 al 17,8% al final del periodo. Conclusiones: Este estudio presenta los resultados de gestión de un modelo de atención integral para pacientes con artritis reumatoide en Colombia, que logró mantener la mayor proporción de pacientes en actividad baja y remisión a medida que estos contaban con mayor tiempo de seguimiento, también logró disminuir el porcentaje de uso de FARME biológicos y establecer los FARME convencionales como la principal alternativa terapéutica.

Perfil clínico e epidemiológico e comorbidades dos pacientes com artrite reumatoide atendidos no centro de especialidades médicas do centro universitário do Pará / Clinical and epidemiological and comorbidities of patients with rheumatoid arthritis assisted at the medical specialties center of Centro Universitário do Pará

Objetivos: Descrever as características clínico e epidemiológicas e a prevalência das comorbidades que acometem os pacientes com artrite reumatóide (AR) atendidos no ambulatório de reumatologia do Centro de Especialidades Médicas do Cesupa (CEMEC). Métodos: Estudo descritivo, observacional e retrospectivo realizado por meio da coleta de dados de prontuários médicos, no período de janeiro a novembro de 2020, de pacientes com artrite reumatoide, atendidos no Centro de Especialidades Médicas do Cesupa no período de 2012 a 2020. Resultados: Foram analisados 122 prontuários. A maioria dos pacientes foi do sexo feminino (88,52%). A raça predominante foi a não branca (90,88%) e a idade média dos participantes foi 54,09 anos (DP± 11,33). A maioria dos pacientes apresentavam fatores reumatoides positivo (56,55%). O tempo médio de doença foi de 9,7 anos (±8,57). As principais comorbidades não infecciosas encontradas foram: hipertensão arterial (40,16%), osteoporose (23,77%), dislipidemia (19,67%), diabetes (12,29%), obesidade (8,19%), depressão (4,09%), neoplasias (2,45%) e osteopenia (1,63%). Os medicamentos utilizados foram metotrexato (59,83%), prednisona (55,73%), leflunomida (36,06%), tocilizumabe (7,37%), anti-TNF (7,37%), anti-inflamatórios não hormonais (6,55%), tofacitinibe (2,45%), abatacepte (2,45%) e rituximabe (0%). Conclusão: As principais comorbidades que atingiram estes pacientes foram a hipertensão, osteoporose e dislipidemia. Assim, verifica-se a necessidade do controle de fatores de risco modificáveis dessas comorbidades assim como prezar pelo uso de doses baixas e pelo menor tempo possível, a fim de, apenas enquanto as drogas modificadoras de doença reumática (DMARDs) não estão fazendo efeito, reduzir a prevalência dessas comorbidades nestes pacientes.

Objectives: To describe the clinical and epidemiological characteristics and the prevalence of the main non ­ infectious comorbidities that affect patients with rheumatoid arthritis treated at the rheumatology outpatient clinic of the Centro de Especialidades Médicas do Cesupa (CEMEC). Methods: This is a descriptive, observational and retrospective study carried out by collecting data from medical records, from January to November 2020, of patients with rheumatoid arthritis, treated a Centro de Especialidades Médicas from 2012 to 2020. Results: In total, 122 medical records were analyzed, most of which corresponded to female patients (88.52%). The predominant race was non-white (90.88%) and the mean age of the participants was 54.09 years, with a standard deviation of 11.33 years. Regarding the rheumatoid factor, most of the sample is positive (56.55%). The mean disease duration was 9.7 years, with a standard deviation of 8.57 years. The main non-infectious comorbidities found were: arterial hypertension (40.16%), osteoporosis (23.77%), dyslipidemia (19.67%), diabetes (12.29%), obesity (8.19%) depression (4,09%), neoplasms (2.45%) and osteopenia (1.63%). The drugs used were methotrexate (59.83%), prednisone (55.73%), leflunomide (36.06%), tocilizumab (7.37%), anti-TNF (7.37%), non-steroidal anti-inflammatories. hormonal agents (6.55%), tofacitinib (2.45%), abatacept (2.45%) and rituximab (0%). Conclusion: The main comorbidities that affected these patients were hypertension, osteoporosis and dyslipidemia; and the most used drugs were prednisone, methotrexate and leflunomide, which are also related to the emergence of these pathologies. Thus, there is a need to encourage the practice of physical activity, as well as to value the use of low doses of corticosteroids, only while disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are ineffective, in order to reduce the prevalence of these Comorbidities in these patient

Desarrollo de artritis reumatoide refractaria al tratamiento convencional / Development of rheumatoid arthritis refractory to conventional treatment

La artritis reumatoide es una enfermedad inflamatoria crónica sistémica que afecta del 0,4 por ciento de América Latina. Sus manifestaciones consisten en dolor crónico, destrucción articular y muerte prematura, afectando principalmente a mujeres. Mediante el puntaje del Health Assesment Questionnaire, se puede realizar un conteo de articulaciones tumefactas, presencia de nódulos reumatoides, factor reumatoide, velocidad de sedimentación globular, proteína C reactiva y erosiones en radiografía, los cuales estaban asociados con la elección del primer tratamiento con medicamentos antirreumáticos modificadores de la enfermedad (DMARD). El propósito de este estudio es determinar los principales estudios sobre el desarrollo de la artritis reumatoide refractaria al tratamiento convencional. Se realizó la búsqueda de literatura mediante una exploración de artículos en PubMed y SciELO; se consideraron artículos originales y de revisión, publicados en idioma inglés y español, haciendo uso de los descriptores. Se realizó una lectura preliminar de los artículos con el objetivo de seleccionar los que se ajustaban a nuestro propósito. Los documentos que tenían información con los aspectos formales se incluyeron en nuestra revisión, es decir, se seleccionó un total de 24 artículos. Es en este punto la observación clínica ha permitido describir que no todos los pacientes tienen el mismo curso de evolución de la enfermedad, incluso con tratamientos estandarizados a nivel mundial, y al evaluar los desenlaces de la enfermedad se sugiere que debe haber características de cada paciente que hacen que su enfermedad cause más daño en su evolución en comparación con otros pacientes(AU)

Rheumatoid arthritis is a systemic chronic inflammatory disease that affects 0.4 percent to 1 percent of Latin America, manifested by chronic pain, joint destruction and premature death, affecting mainly women. Using the Health Assessment Questionnaire score, a count of swollen joints, presence of rheumatoid nodules, rheumatoid factor, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, C-reactive protein and erosions in radiography, were associated with the choice of the first treatment with disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). To determine the main studies that ensure efficacy towards the development of rheumatoid arthritis refractory to conventional treatment. The literature search was carried out by means of an exploration of articles in PubMed and SciELO; Original and review articles were considered, published in English and Spanish, making use of the descriptors, a preliminary reading of the articles was carried out with the aim ofSelect those that fit our purpose, the documents that had information with the formal aspects, were included in our review, that is, a rigorous reading, which selected a total of 24 articles. It is at this point that clinical observation has made it possible to describe that not all patients have the same course of evolution of the disease, even with standardized treatments worldwide, and when evaluating the outcomes of the disease it is suggested that there must be characteristics of each patients who cause their disease to cause more damage in their evolution compared to other patients(AU)

Uso de antirreumáticos en covid-19 desde la hidroxicloroquina hasta la anakinra pasando por tocilizumab y baricitinib: Una revisión de la literatura / Use of antirheumatic drugs in covid-19 from hydroxychloroquine to anakinra through tocilizumab and baricitinib: A review of the literature

Actualmente nos encontramos en una pandemia mundial causada por el coronavirus 2019 o COVID­19, presentando diferentes desafíos para el sistema de salud debido a que no se cuenta aún con alguna vacuna ni con un tratamiento que haya demostrado su eficacia en totalidad, siendo el manejo actual preventivo y de soporte. Por lo que, en esta revisión se estudiará a los fármacos antirreumáticos más resaltantes que tengan un probable efecto farmacológico, como son la hidroxicloroquina, el tocilizumab, el anakinra y el baricitinib, frente al COVID­19. Se espera que brinde apoyo para futuros tratamientos e investigaciones sobre la enfermedad.

We are currently in a global pandemic caused by the coronavirus 2019 or COVID-19, presenting different challenges for the health system due to the fact that there is still no vaccine or a treatment that has proven its effectiveness in its entirety, being the management current preventive and supportive. Therefore, this review will study the most prominent antirheumatic drugs that have a probable pharmacological effect, such as hydroxychloroquine, tocilizumab, anakinra and baricitinib, against COVID-19. It is expected that they will provide support for future treatments. and research on the disease

Uso de antirreumáticos en covid-19 desde la hidroxicloroquina hasta la anakinra pasando por tocilizumab y baricitinib: Una revisión de la literatura / Use of antirheumatic drugs in covid-19 from hydroxychloroquine to anakinra through tocilizumab and baricitinib: A review of the literature

RESUMEN Actualmente nos encontramos en una pandemia mundial causada por el coronavirus 2019 o COVID-19, presentando diferentes desafíos para el sistema de salud debido a que no se cuenta aún con alguna vacuna ni con un tratamiento que haya demostrado su eficacia en totalidad, siendo el manejo actual preventivo y de soporte. Por lo que, en esta revisión se estudiará a los fármacos antirreumáticos más resaltantes que tengan un probable efecto farmacológico, como son la hidroxicloroquina, el tocilizumab, el anakinra y el baricitinib, frente al COVID-19. Se espera que brinde apoyo para futuros tratamientos e investigaciones sobre la enfermedad.

ABSTRACT We are currently in a global pandemic caused by the coronavirus 2019 or COVID- 19, presenting different challenges for the health system due to the fact that there is still no vaccine or a treatment that has proven its effectiveness in its entirety, being the management current preventive and supportive. Therefore, this review will study the most prominent antirheumatic drugs that have a probable pharmacological effect, such as hydroxychloroquine, tocilizumab, anakinra and baricitinib, against COVID-19. It is expected that they will provide support for future treatments. and research on the disease.

Avaliação comparativa do perfil clínico, laboratorial e de tratamento da artrite psoriásica por gênero e subtipo da artrite / Comparative evaluation of the clinical, laboratory and treatment profile of psoriasic arthritis by gender and arthritis subtype

A artrite psoriásica (AP) é inflamatória, autoimune e associada à psoríase cutânea. Fatores hormonais e cromossomos sexuais foram identificados como possíveis fatores patogenéticos indutores de dimorfismo sexual imunológico, refletindo na apresentação de doenças autoimunes e conduta. O objetivo desta pesquisa foi comparar diferenças em prevalência de subtipos da AP, nas manifestações clínicas articulares e extra-articulares, assim como no tratamento. Foi observacional transversal com avaliação descritiva e retrospectiva. Foram coletados dados epidemiológicos, subtipo de doença, perfil laboratorial, manifestações clínicas extra-articulares e histórico de medicamentos. A população com AP encontrada foi tipicamente masculina, meia-idade, menos de uma década com a doença e com provas inflamatórias elevadas. A principal manifestação extra-articular encontrada foi dactilite e a medicação foi metotrexato. Os homens tiveram mais acometimento ungueal e cessaram mais o tabagismo, quando comparados às mulheres.

Psoriatic arthritis (PA) is an autoimmune inflammatory disease and associated with cutaneous psoriasis. Hormonal factors and sex chromosomes were identified as possible pathogenic factors inducing immunological sexual dimorphism, reflecting on the presentation of autoimmune diseases and behavior. The aim of this research was to compare differences in the prevalence of PA subtypes, in articular and extra-articular clinical manifestations, and in treatment. It was observational cross-sectional with descriptive and retrospective evaluation. Epidemiological data, disease subtype, laboratory profile, extra-articular clinical manifestations and medication history were collected. The population with PA found was typically male, middle-aged, less than a decade with the disease, and with high inflammatory evidence. The main extra-articular manifestation found was dactylitis and the medication was methotrexate. Men had more nail involvement and stopped smoking more when compared to women.

Intravenous tocilizumab in the management of rheumatoid arthritis: Clinical practice findings from a 6-month international, multicentre, observational study in Central America and the Caribbean / El tocilizumab intravenoso en el tratamiento de la artritis reumatoide: resultados de la práctica clínica de un estudio internacional, multicéntrico y observacional de 6 meses de duración en América Central y el Caribe

ABSTRACT Tocilizumab (TCZ), an 1interieukin-6 receptor-α Inhibitor, is Indicated in patients with moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis with inadequate response to disease modifying drugs. ACT UP is a multinational project co11ecting information from severa1 post-marketing TCZ studies. Aim: To determine the proportion of patients in the routine clinical care setting receiving intravenous TCZ after 6 months treatment. Identification of TCZ treatment patterns, efficacy, and safety were also recorded. Method: This prospective non-interventional 6-month study, collected real-world information from 169 Central American and Caribbean patients. No interventional procedures or additional visits outside routine clinical care practice were performed. Statistical analysis was essentially descriptive. Results: Adherence rate was 74.0%, with 97% of patients receiving TCZ as first biological therapy line and there were no deviations from the local label. Almost 85% of patients started with combination therapy, and the majority remained under this scheme throughout the study. A significant decrease in disease activity assessments and acute phase reactants values were detected during TCZ treatment. The percentage of patients that achieved improvement according to the different levels of the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) increased during the study, and relevant enhancements in quality of life were also accomplished. Adverse events (AEs) occurred in 35 patients, with metabolic and nutritional disorders being the most common. Serious AEs were reported in 3% of patients, and special interest AEs occurred in 6 patients. Conclusion: Treatment adherence was mainly determined by follow-up and compliance with the administration schedule. Efficacy analysis showed better results than those reported in international literature. The incidence of AEs was also lower than in previously published data.

RESUMEN El tocilizumab (TCZ) está indicado en la artritis reumatoide moderada a severa, principalmente en respuestas inadecuadas a fármacos convencionales. ACT UP es un proyecto multinacional que recopila información relacionada con varios estudios de poscomercialización. Objetivo: Determinar la proporción de pacientes en la atención clínica de rutina que continúan en tratamiento con TCZ intravenoso después de 6 meses. Se llevó a cabo la identificación de patrones de administración, eficacia y seguridad. Método: Este estudio observacional prospectivo recopiló información de la vida real de 169 pacientes de América Central y el Caribe. No se hicieron intervenciones ni visitas adicionales fuera de la práctica clínica habitual. El análisis estadístico fue esencialmente descriptivo. Resultados: La tasa de adherencia al tratamiento fue del 74,0%, el 97% de los pacientes reci bieron TCZ como primera línea biológica y no existieron desviaciones en las indicaciones de administración según el inserto local. Aproximadamente el 85% de los pacientes inició TCZ como terapia combinada, y la mayoría permaneció bajo este esquema. Se evidenció una dis minución en la actividad de la enfermedad y un aumento en el porcentaje de pacientes que lograron respuesta según los diferentes grados del Colegio Americano de Reumatología. En 35 pacientes se presentaron eventos adversos (EA), siendo los relacionados con metabolismo y nutrición los más comunes. Se informaron EA graves en el 3% de los pacientes y de interés especial en 6 casos. Conclusión: El seguimiento de los pacientes y el cumplimiento del programa fueron los prin cipales determinantes en la adherencia. El análisis de eficacia mostró mejores resultados que los reportados previamente y la incidencia de EA fue menor que en otros estudios.

Caracterización de pacientes con artritis indiferenciada y evolución a otras enfermedades inflamatorias en una cohorte del noroccidente colombiano: Estudio observacional / Characterization of patients with undifferentiated arthritis and evolution to other inflammatory diseases in a Colombian northwestern cohort: An observational study

RESUMEN Objetivo: La artritis indiferenciada es una artropatía inflamatoria que no cumple con los criterios de enfermedades reumatológicas específicas y cuyos síntomas persisten durante un año. Estos individuos pueden remitir espontáneamente o evolucionar a otra artropatía definida, especialmente artritis reumatoide. El objetivo de este estudio fue describir las características clínicas y de laboratorio, tanto basales como de seguimiento, de pacientes con artritis indiferenciada en un centro de referencia. Materiales y métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo retrospectivo con pacientes con artritis indiferenciada por criterio de reumatólogo. Se analizaron variables sociodemográficas, clínicas y terapéuticas. Las variables cualitativas se expresaron como frecuencias absolutas y relativas, y las cuantitativas con mediana y rango intercuartílico. Resultados: Se incluyeron 66 pacientes; la mediana de edad fue 46,3 años (RIC: 37,5-51,8); diez (15,2 %) sujetos tenían antecedente familiar de artritis reumatoide. Cuarenta (60,6 %) individuos tuvieron compromiso articular en interfalángicas proximales; el principal síntoma fue la rigidez matinal en 29 pacientes (44 %). El compromiso extraarticular más frecuente fue el cutáneo (n=14; 21,2 %). Los antiinflamatorios no esteroideos (n=18; 27,2 %) y los esteroides (n=15; 22,7 %) fueron los tratamientos más frecuentes. De 43 pacientes, 22 (51,2 %) permanecieron con diagnóstico de artritis indiferenciada, 18 (41,9 %) progresaron a otras enfermedades, siendo la más frecuente artritis reumatoide, y en tres (7 %) hubo remisión. Conclusiones: En una cohorte de pacientes con artritis indiferenciada del noroccidente colombiano, luego de 12 meses, la mayoría, persiste con este diagnóstico; fue llamativa la frecuencia importante de antecedente familiar de artritis reumatoide y de baja remisión espontánea.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Undifferentiated arthritis is an inflammatory arthropathy that does not meet the criteria of specific rheumatological diseases and whose symptoms persist for one year. These individuals may spontaneously remit or evolve to another defined arthropathy, especially rheumatoid arthritis. The aim of this study was to describe the clinical and laboratory characteristics, both baseline and follow-up, of patients with undifferentiated arthritis in a reference center. Materials and methods: A retrospective descriptive study was conducted with patients with undifferentiated arthritis defined by rheumatologist criteria. Sociodemographic, clinical and therapeutic variables were analyzed. The qualitative variables were expressed as absolute and relative frequencies and the quantitative variables with median and interquartile range. Results: 66 patients were included; the median age was 46.3 years (IQR: 37.5-51.8); 10 subjects (15.2 %) had a family history of rheumatoid arthritis. Forty individuals (60.6 %) had involvement in proximal interphalangeal joints; the main symptom was morning stiffness in 29 patients (44 %). The most frequent extra-articular involvement was cutaneous (n = 14, 21.2 %). Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (n=18; 27.2%) and steroids (n=15; 22.7 %) were the most frequent treatments. Of 43 patients, 22 (51.2 %) remained with a diagnosis of undifferentiated arthritis, 18 (41.9 %) progressed to other diseases, the most frequent being rheumatoid arthritis, and in three (7 %) there was disease remission. Conclusions: In a cohort of patients with undifferentiated arthritis from northwestern Colombia, after 12 months, most of them persist with this diagnosis; it was striking the important frequency of a family history of rheumatoid arthritis and a low spontaneous remission.

Doença de Still do adulto: um desafio diagnóstico / Adult-onset Still's disease: a diagnostic challenge

A doença de Still do adulto é uma rara condição inflamatória, cujo diagnóstico é um desafio, por se tratar de diagnóstico de exclusão, após vasta investigação. Manifesta-se com febre alta diária, amigdalite não supurativa, artrite, rash evanescente, leucocitose e hiperferritinemia. O presente caso demonstra a doença de Still do adulto e sua vasta investigação, motivando a realização de revisão bibliográfica sobre inovações na fisiopatologia, no diagnóstico e no tratamento.

Adult onset Still's disease is a rare inflammatory condition, the diagnosis of which is a challenge, because it is a diagnosis of exclusion, and demands extensive investigation. It manifests with high daily fever, nonsuppurative tonsillitis, arthritis, evanescent rash, leukocytosis, and hyperferritinemia. The present case de­monstrates adult-onset Still's disease and its extensive inves­tigation, motivating literature review on innovations of its pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment.

Métodos para la medición de la adherencia a medicamentos modificadores de la enfermedad orales en artritis reumatoide y factores asociados con baja adherencia farmacológica / Methods for measuring adherence to oral disease-modifying drugs in rheumatoid arthritis and factors associated with low adherence to pharmacological treatment

RESUMEN Objetivos: Revisar definiciones, factores asociados a adherencia, métodos para medición y determinación de adherencia a medicamentos modificadores de la enfermedad orales en artritis reumatoide. Métodos: Se realizó una búsqueda de la literatura en las bases de datos de Pubmed hasta diciembre de 2017 mediante términos MeSH (((«Arthritis, Rheumatoid¼ [Mesh] AND «Medication Adherence¼ [Mesh]) OR «Patient Compliance¼ [Mesh]) AND «Antirheumatic Agents¼ [Mesh]) de artículos que estuvieran en idioma espafñol o inglés e incluyeran solo población adulta. Resultados: De un total de 387 artículos encontrados, 43 se incluyeron para la revisión general, con información sobre definiciones de adherencia, cumplimiento, concordancia y persistencia, componentes, clasificación y dimensiones, factores de riesgo relacionados con la no adherencia al tratamiento, descripción de los métodos de medición. Solo 9 artículos midieron adherencia e incluyeron información sobre factores relacionados con adherencia a medicamentos orales en artritis reumatoide. Conclusiones: La adherencia al tratamiento farmacológico en artritis reumatoide es subóptima y se relaciona con menor efectividad en el control de la actividad inflamatoria. Los principales factores relacionados con baja adherencia incluyen problemas de acceso y disponibilidad del medicamento, mayor actividad y duración de la enfermedad, polifarmacia, uso de medicamentos por periodos prolongados, bajo estrato socioeconómico, etnia, reacciones adversas por medicamentos, percepción de inefectividad de la medicación y enfermedades concomitantes. Es necesario incorporar de forma sistemática la medición de adherencia farmacológica dentro de la práctica clínica rutinaria y la identificación de los factores de riesgo más frecuentes asociados a una baja adherencia con el fin de diseñar estrategias encaminadas a mejorar la adherencia de los pacientes y lograr mejores desenlaces clínicos.

ABSTRACT Objectives: To review the definitions, associated factors, as well as the methods for the measurement and determination of adherence to oral disease modifying drugs in rheumatoid arthritis. Methods: A search of the literature was carried out in the PUBMED databases up to December 2017 using MeSH terms: ((("Arthritis, Rheumatoid" [Mesh] AND "Medication Adherence" [Mesh]) OR "Patient Compliance" [Mesh]) AND "Antirheumatic Agents" [Mesh]). Only articles that included an adult population and were in Spanish or English were reviewed. Results: From the 387 articles found, 43 were included for general review (definitions of adherence, compliance, concordance and persistence, components, classification and dimensions of adherence, risk factors related to non-adherence, description of direct and indirect methods for measuring adherence). Only 9 articles measured adherence and included information about risk factors related to non-adherence to oral treatment in rheumatoid arthritis. Conclusions: The adherence to pharmacological treatment in rheumatoid arthritis is sub-optimal and is associated with less effectiveness in the control of inflammatory activity. The main factors related to low adherence include problems of drug access and availability, increased activity and duration of the disease, polypharmacy, use of medications for prolonged periods, socioeconomic stratum, ethnicity, adverse drug reactions, perception of ineffectiveness of the medication, and concomitant diseases. It is necessary to incorporate the systematic measurement of pharmacological adherence within clinical practice. It is also important to identify the most frequent risk factors associated with low adherence, in order to design strategies aimed at improving patient adherence and achieve better clinical outcomes.

Time to and factors associated with initiation of biological therapy in patients with rheumatoid arthritis in Colombia / Tiempo y factores asociados con el inicio de terapia biológica con antirreumáticos modificadores de enfermedad en pacientes con Artritis Reumatoide en Colombia

ABSTRACT Aims: To determine the time Colombian patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are treated with non-biological disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) before changing to biological therapy. Methods: A retrospective cohort study that collected information about the start of antirheumatic treatment in patients of all ages with a diagnosis of RA until the change to biological DMARD therapy. Survival analysis using Kaplan-Meier curves, from 1 January 2007 until 31 December 2013 by SPSS 23.0 for Windows, was made. Results: A total of 3880 patients (75.3% women) with a mean age of 51.3 years started non-biological DMARDs. After 5 years, 234 patients (6.0%) initiated biological DMARD therapy in 17.5 ± 13.9 months. The use of glucocorticoids (OR: 2.49; 95% CI: 1.658-3.732), having any comedication (OR: 1.83; 95%CI: 1.135-2.966) and being treated in the city of Bogota (OR: 2.30; 95%CI: 1.585-3.355) or in the cities of the Colombian Atlantic coast (OR: 2.848; 95%CI: 1.468-5.524) were associated with a higher likelihood of biological DMARD initiation. Whereas the initiation of therapy with methotrexate (OR: 0.04; 95% CI: 0.014-0.108; p < 0.001) or chloroquine (OR: 0.13; 95% CI: 0.092-0.187; p < 0.001) or receiving antihypertensive medication (OR: 0.64; 95% CI: 0.421-0.960; p = 0.031) was associated with a significant reduce in likelihood. Conclusion: After 5 years of non-biological DMARD therapy, 6.0% of people with RA started biological DMARDs. Receiving glucocorticoids, having any comedication, being treated in Bogota City or cities of the Colombian Atlantic coast affected the probability of switching to biological therapy in these patients.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Determinar el tiempo transcurrido desde que pacientes de Colombia con artritis reumatoide (AR) en tratamiento con fármacos antirreumáticos modificadores de enfermedad no biológicos (FAMEs) cambian a terapia con biológicos. Materiales y métodos: Estudio de cohorte retrospectiva que recogió información sobre inicio de tratamiento antirreumático en pacientes de todas las edades con diagnóstico de AR hasta que pasaron a terapia con FAMEs biológicos. Se hizo un análisis de sobrevida, utilizando curvas de Kaplan-Meier, desde el 1 de enero de 2007 hasta el 31 de diciembre de 2013 mediante SPSS 23.0 para Windows. Resultados: Un total de 3880 pacientes iniciaron terapia con FAMEs no biológicos, (75,3% fueron mujeres) con una edad media de 51,3 anos. Tras cinco años de seguimiento, 234 pacientes (6,0%) iniciaron FAMEs biológicos en promedio a los 17,5 ± 13,9 meses. El uso de corticoides (OR: 2,49; IC95%: 1,658-3,732; p<0,001), recibir alguna comedicación (OR: 1,83; IC95%: 1,135-2,966), ser tratado en Bogotá (OR: 2,30; IC95%: 1,585-3,355), en las ciudades de la costa Atlántica (OR: 2,848; IC95%: 1,468-5,524) estuvieron asociados con una mayor probabilidad de inicio de biológicos mientras que el uso de metotrexate (OR: 0,04; IC95%: 0,014-0,108) o cloroquina (OR: 0,13; IC95%: 0,092-0,187) o recibir medicación antihipertensiva (OR: 0,64; IC95%: 0,421-0,960) redujeron la posibilidad. Conclusiones: Después de cinco años de terapia antirreumática convencional, un 6,0% de pacientes con AR inició terapia con FAMEs biológicos. Recibir corticoides, recibir comedicación, ser tratado en Bogotá o la costa Atlántica afectan la probabilidad de cambiar a terapia biológica.

Enfermedad de Still del Adulto, a propósito de un caso / Still's disease, a clinical case

La enfermedad de Still del Adulto es una variante sistémica del universo llamado "artritis idiopática juvenil", cuya diferencia es la edad de aparición, recibiendo este nombre cuando el cuadro se manifiesta en personas mayores de 15 años. Es una enfermedad autoinflamatoria caracterizada por fiebre intermitente, artritis, rash evanescente y linfadenopatías, asociado a manifestaciones de compromiso sistémico. Es una patología de baja prevalencia, pero es importante considerarla como uno de los principales diagnósticos etiológicos de la fiebre de origen desconocido.

Adult-onset Still's disease is a systemic variant of Still's disease distinguished from juvenile idiopathic arthritis by its onset age of over 15. It is an auto-inflammatory disease characterized by intermittent fever, arthritis, short-lived rash and lymphadenopathies. It has low prevalence but is important to consider as one of the principle etiological diagnoses of fever of unknown origin.

Severe infection in patients with rheumatoid arthritis taking anakinra, rituximab, or abatacept: a systematic review of observational studies / Infecções graves em pacientes com artrite reumatoide em uso de anakinra, rituximab ou abatacept: revisão sistemática de estudos observacionais

ABSTRACT A question is raised about an increased risk of severe infection from the use of biological drugs in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. This systematic review of observational studies aimed at assessing the risk of severe infection associated with the use of anakinra, rituximab, and abatacept in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. The following databases were searched: PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus, Web of Knowledge, Scirus, Cochrane, Exerpta Medica Database, Scielo, and Lilacs up to July 2010. Severe infections were defined as those life-threatening ones in need of the use of parenteral antibiotics or of hospitalization. Longitudinal observational studies were selected without language restriction, involving adult patients diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis and who used anakinra, rituximab, or abatacept. In four studies related to anakinra, 129 (5.1%) severe infections were related in 2896 patients, of which three died. With respect to rituximab, two studies reported 72 (5.9%) severe infections in 1224 patients, of which two died. Abatacept was evaluated in only one study in which 25 (2.4%) severe infections were reported in 1046 patients. The main site of infection for these three drugs was the respiratory tract. One possible explanation for the high frequency of severe infections associated with anakinra may be the longer follow-up time in the selected studies. The high frequency of severe infections associated with rituximab could be credited to the less strict inclusion criteria for the patients studied. Therefore, infection monitoring should be cautious in patients with rheumatoid arthritis in use of these three drugs.

RESUMO Existe um questionamento sobre aumento do risco de infecções graves pelo uso de medicamentos biológicos por pacientes com artrite reumatoide. Esta revisão sistemática de estudos observacionais objetivou avaliar o risco de infecções graves associadas ao uso de anakinra, rituximab e abatacept em pacientes com artrite reumatoide. Foram pesquisadas as bases PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus, Web of Knowledge, Scirus, Cochrane, Exerpta Medica Database, Scielo e Lilacs até julho/2010. Infecções graves foram definidas como aquelas com de risco de vida, necessidade de antibióticos parenterais ou de hospitalização. Foram selecionados estudos observacionais longitudinais, sem restrição de idioma, que envolviam pacientes adultos com diagnóstico de artrite reumatoide que usaram anakinra, rituximab, abatacept. Em quatro estudos relacionados ao anakinra, foram relatadas 129 (5,1%) infecções graves em 2.896 pacientes, dos quais três evoluíram para óbito. Sobre o rituximab, dois estudos relataram 72 (5,9%) infecções graves em 1.224 pacientes, dos quais dois evoluíram para óbito. O abatacept foi avaliado em apenas um estudo, no qual foram relatadas 25 (2,4%) infecções graves em 1.046 pacientes. O principal sítio de infecção para os três medicamentos foi o trato respiratório. Uma possível explicação para a frequência elevada de infecções graves associadas ao anakinra pode ser o maior tempo de acompanhamento nos estudos selecionados. A frequência elevada de infecções graves associadas ao rituximab poderia ser creditada ao critério menos restrito de inclusão de pacientes. Portanto, deve ser cautelosa a monitoração de infecções nos pacientes com artrite reumatoide que usam esses três medicamentos.

Adherencia al tratamiento en artritis reumatoide: condición indispensable para el control de la enfermedad / Adherence to treatment in rheumatoid arthritis: an essential condition for disease control

Introducción: la artritis reumatoide es la poliartritis inflamatoria más frecuente en el adulto y generalmente lleva a discapacidad funcional, lo cual impacta de manera dramática en la vida diaria de los individuos que la padecen. El tratamiento de esta entidad tiene como objetivo disminuir la actividad inflamatoria y la progresión de la enfermedad, sin embargo, la terapia farmacológica se fundamenta en medicamentos antireumáticos con múltiples efectos adversos y esquemas de dosificación difíciles de comprender, situaciones que pueden asociarse a bajos índices de adherencia. Objetivo: abarcar aspectos generales sobre el tratamiento de la artritis reumatoide y el impacto de la adherencia al mismo. Métodos: se utilizaron artículos de reciente publicación y de relevancia en el tema; las bases de datos usadas fueron PubMed, Scielo y LILACS. Conclusiones: la mayoría de publicaciones analizadas en la literatura evidenciaron un bajo cumplimiento de los esquemas terapéuticos en pacientes con artritis reumatoide, esto se asoció a mayor progresión de la enfermedad y desenlaces clínicos desfavorables; por lo tanto, es fundamental diseñar estrategias, que tengan como propósito incrementar la adherencia a los esquemas de tratamiento recomendados(AU)

Introduction: Rheumatoid arthritis is the most common inflammatory arthritis in adults and in many cases leads to work disability, which has a dramatic impact on the daily lives of the individuals suffering this disease. The main objective of the treatment is to reduce inflammatory activity and progression of the disease, however, the therapy is based on antirheumatic agents with many side effects and dosing schedules difficult to understand; this circumstances may be associated low adhesion to therapy. Objective: To cover general aspects of the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and the impact of adherence to it. Methods: Recently published and relevant articles were used for this review; the databases used were PubMed, Scielo and LILACS. Conclusions: Most publications available in the literature showed low compliance with treatment regimens in patients with rheumatoid arthritis, this was associated with greater progression of disease and adverse clinical outcomes; therefore, it is essential to design strategies that aim to increase adherence to recommended treatment schemes(AU)

Treatment persistence in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis / Persistência do tratamento em pacientes com artrite reumatoide e espondilite anquilosante

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE To evaluate treatment persistence in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis who started therapies with disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARD) and tumor necrosis factor blockers (anti-TNF drugs). METHODS This retrospective cohort study from July 2008 to September 2013 evaluated therapy persistence, which is defined as the period between the start of treatment until it is discontinued, allowing for an interval of up to 30 days between the prescription end and the start of the next prescription. Odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (95%CI) were calculated by logistic regression models to estimate the patients' chances of persisting in their therapies after the first and after the two first years of follow-up. RESULTS The study included 11,642 patients with rheumatoid arthritis - 2,241 of these started on anti-TNF drugs (+/-DMARD) and 9,401 patients started on DMARD - and 1,251 patients with ankylosing spondylitis - 976 of them were started on anti-TNF drugs (+/-DMARD) and 275 were started on DMARD. In the first year of follow-up, 63.5% of the patients persisted in their therapies with anti-TNF drugs (+/-DMARD) and 54.1% remained using DMARD in the group with rheumatoid arthritis. In regards to ankylosing spondylitis, 79.0% of the subjects in anti-TNF (+/-DMARD) group and 41.1% of the subjects in the DMARD group persisted with their treatments. The OR (95%CI) for therapy persistence was 1.50 (1.34-1.67) for the anti-TNF (+/-DMARD) group as compared with the DMARD group in the first year for the patients with rheumatoid arthritis, and 2.33 (1.74-3.11) for the patients with ankylosing spondylitis. A similar trend was observed at the end of the second year. CONCLUSIONS A general trend of higher rates of therapy persistence with anti-TNF drugs (+/-DMARD) was observed as compared to DMARD in the study period. We observed higher persistence rates for anti-TNF drugs (+/-DMARD) in patients with ankylosing spondylitis as compared to rheumatoid arthritis; and a higher persistence for DMARD in patients with rheumatoid arthritis as compared to ankylosing spondylitis.

RESUMO OBJETIVO Avaliar a persistência do tratamento em pacientes com artrite reumatoide e espondilite anquilosante que iniciaram terapia com medicamentos modificadores do curso da doença (MMCD) e agentes bloqueadores do fator de necrose tumoral (anti-TNF). MÉTODOS Este estudo de coorte retrospectiva de julho de 2008 a setembro de 2013 avaliou a persistência na terapia, definida como o tempo do início até a descontinuação, permitindo-se um intervalo de até 30 dias entre o fim da prescrição e o início da prescrição seguinte. Odds ratio (OR) com intervalos de confiança de 95% (IC95%) foram calculados por meio de modelos de regressão logística para estimar a chance de apresentar persistência na terapia após o primeiro e os dois primeiros anos de seguimento. RESULTADOS Foram incluídos 11.642 pacientes com artrite reumatoide - 2.241 iniciaram uso de agentes anti-TNF (+/-MMCD) e 9.401 iniciaram MMCD - e 1.251 pacientes com espondilite anquilosante - 976 iniciaram uso de agentes anti-TNF (+/-MMCD) e 275 iniciaram MMCD. No primeiro ano de acompanhamento, 63,5% persistiram em terapia com anti-TNF (+/-MMCD) e 54,1% em uso de MMCD do grupo com artrite reumatoide. Em relação à espondilite anquilosante, 79,0% do grupo anti-TNF (+/-MMCD) e 41,1% do grupo MMCD persistiram no tratamento. O OR (IC95%) para persistência na terapia foi de 1,50 (1,34-1,67) para o grupo anti-TNF (+/-MMCD) comparado com MMCD no primeiro ano em pacientes com artrite reumatoide, e de 2,33 (1,74-3,11) em pacientes com espondilite anquilosante. Foi observada tendência semelhante ao final do segundo ano. CONCLUSÕES Observou-se uma tendência geral de taxas mais elevadas de persistência na terapia com anti-TNF (+/-MMCD) em relação a MMCD no período estudado. Foram observadas taxas de persistência mais elevadas para os usuários de anti-TNF (+/-MMCD) em pacientes com espondilite anquilosante em relação a artrite reumatoide, e maior persistência para MMCD em pacientes com artrite reumatoide em relação à espondilite anquilosante.

Infecciones en pacientes con artritis reumatoide: medicamentos moduladores de la respuesta biológica versus fármacos modificadores de la enfermedad. Seguimiento a un año / Infections in rheumatoid arthritis patients: biological therapy versus disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs: one year follow-up

IntroducciónLos fármacos antirreumáticos modificadores de la enfermedad y los medicamentos biológicos buscan controlar la inflamación y evitar la progresión del daño articular en artritis reumatoide. Aún es controvertido si éstos aumentan la incidencia de infecciones en esta entidad.MétodosEstudio de cohorte retrospectivo en una población de pacientes de consulta externa y hospitalización, de un hospital universitario de referencia de reumatología, de cuarto nivel de complejidad, del noroccidente colombiano. Se incluyeron 383 pacientes según los criterios del American College of Rheumatology de 1987: 83 en el grupo de terapia con biológicos y 300 en el grupo de fármacos modificadores, para establecer la incidencia y factores de riesgo para infecciones no serias y serias a los 12 meses de seguimiento.ResultadosLa mayoría de la población fue femenina (85%). El grupo de biológicos presentó un mayor riesgo para infecciones no serias [HR 1.73 (IC 95% 1.07–2.77; p=0.023)] y serias [HR 2.56 (IC 95% 1.09–6.01; p=0.030)]; este hallazgo se mantuvo al ajustar los resultados por otras variables asociadas a infección (número de fármacos modificadores recibidos, uso de metotrexate, esteroides y leflunomida, diabetes mellitus) HR para infección no seria [(1.67, IC 95% 1.05–2.70; p=0.030)] y HR para infección seria [(2.67, IC 95% 1.12–6.34; p= 0.026)]. La enfermedad pulmonar crónica [HR 5.11 (IC 95% 1.18–22.08; p=0.029)] fue factor de riesgo adicional para infecciones serias.ConclusionesLa terapia con biológicos aumenta el riesgo de infecciones serias y no serias a 12 meses, en comparación con fármacos modificadores, en un grupo de pacientes con artritis reumatoide. También se aumenta el riesgo de infecciones serias con la presencia de enfermedad pulmonar crónica.

Background: Disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs and biological disease modifying drugs are used to control inflammation and prevent progression of joint damage in rheumatoid arthritis. It is still controversial whether these drugs increase the incidence of infection in this disease.Methods:A retrospective cohort study was conducted on a population sample of 383 inpatients and outpatients from a university hospital and referral rheumatology tertiary hospital complex in northwestern Colombia. They were classified according to American College of Rheumatology 1987 classification criteria, with 83 in the biological therapy group, and 300 in the disease modifying antirheumatic drugs group, in order to establish the incidence and risk factors for serious and non-serious infections at 12 months follow-up. Results: The majority were females (85%). The biological therapy group presented a greater risk for non-serious [HR 1.73 (95% CI 1.07-2.77; P=.023)] and serious infections [HR 2.56 (95% CI 1.09-6.01; P=.030)]. This finding remained when adjusting for other variables associated with infection (number of disease modifying antirheumatic drugs received, methotrexate, leflunomide and steroids use, diabetes mellitus), with HR for non-serious infection [(1.67, 95% CI 1.05-2.70; P=.030)], and HR for serious infection [(2.67, 95% CI 1.12-6.34; P=.026)]. Chronic lung disease [HR 5.11 (95 % CI 1.18-22.08; P=.029)] was an additional risk factor for serious infections.Conclusions: Biological therapy increases the risk of serious and non-serious infections at 12 months, compared to disease modifying drugs, in a group of patients with rheumatoid arthritis. The risk of serious infections also increases with the presence of chronic lung disease.

Adalimumab-induced acute interstitial lung disease in a patient with rheumatoid arthritis / Doença pulmonar intersticial aguda induzida por adalimumabe em paciente com artrite reumatoide

The use of immunobiological agents for the treatment of autoimmune diseases is increasing in medical practice. Anti-TNF therapies have been increasingly used in refractory autoimmune diseases, especially rheumatoid arthritis, with promising results. However, the use of such therapies has been associated with an increased risk of developing other autoimmune diseases. In addition, the use of anti-TNF agents can cause pulmonary complications, such as reactivation of mycobacterial and fungal infections, as well as sarcoidosis and other interstitial lung diseases (ILDs). There is evidence of an association between ILD and the use of anti-TNF agents, etanercept and infliximab in particular. Adalimumab is the newest drug in this class, and some authors have suggested that its use might induce or exacerbate preexisting ILDs. In this study, we report the first case of acute ILD secondary to the use of adalimumab in Brazil, in a patient with rheumatoid arthritis and without a history of ILD.

O uso de imunobiológicos no tratamento das doenças autoimunes é cada vez mais frequente na prática médica. Terapias anti-TNF têm sido cada vez mais utilizadas nas doenças autoimunes refratárias, especialmente na artrite reumatoide, com resultados promissores. Entretanto, o uso dessas terapias está relacionado ao aumento do risco do desenvolvimento de outras doenças autoimunes. Adicionalmente, o uso de agentes anti-TNF pode determinar repercussões pulmonares, como a reativação de infecções por micobactérias e fungos e o desenvolvimento de sarcoidose e de outras doenças pulmonares intersticiais (DPIs). A associação de DPI e uso dos agentes anti-TNF, em especial infliximabe e etanercepte, já foi descrita. O adalimumabe é a mais nova droga dessa classe, e algumas publicações sugerem que seu uso pode determinar a indução ou mesmo a exacerbação de DPIs preexistentes. Neste estudo, relatamos o primeiro caso de DPI aguda secundária à utilização de adalimumabe, em uma paciente portadora de artrite reumatoide sem DPI prévia no Brasil.

Consenso 2012 da Sociedade Brasileira de Reumatologia para o tratamento da artrite reumatoide / 2012 Brazilian Society of Rheumatology Consensus for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis

OBJETIVO: Elaborar recomendações para o tratamento da artrite reumatoide no Brasil. MÉTODO: Revisão da literatura com seleção de artigos baseados em evidência e opinião de especialistas da Comissão de Artrite Reumatoide da Sociedade Brasileira de Reumatologia. RESULTADOS E CONCLUSÕES: 1) A decisão terapêutica deve ser compartilhada com o paciente; 2) imediatamente após o diagnóstico, uma droga modificadora do curso da doença (DMCD) deve ser prescrita e o tratamento ajustado para atingir remissão; 3) o tratamento deverá ser conduzido por reumatologista; 4) o tratamento inicial inclui DMCD sintéticas; 5) o metotrexato é a droga de escolha; 6) pacientes que não alcançaram resposta após a utilização de dois esquemas de DMCD sintéticas devem ser avaliados para DMCD biológicas; 7) excepcionalmente, DMCD biológicas poderão ser consideradas mais precocemente; 8) recomenda-se preferencialmente o uso de agentes anti-TNF como terapia biológica inicial; 9) após falha terapêutica a uma primeira DMCD biológica, outros biológicos poderão ser utilizados; 10) ciclofosfamida e azatioprina podem ser consideradas em manifestações extra-articulares graves; 11) recomenda-se a utilização de corticoide oral em baixas doses e por curtos períodos; 12) os anti-inflamatórios não hormonais devem sempre ser prescritos em associação à DMCD; 13) avaliações clínicas devem ser mensais no início do tratamento; 14) terapia física, reabilitação e terapia ocupacional são indicadas; 15) deve-se recomendar tratamento cirúrgico para correção de sequelas; 16) métodos de terapia alternativa não substituem a terapia tradicional; 17) deve-se orientar planejamento familiar; 18) orienta-se a busca ativa e o manejo de comorbidades; 19) atualizar e documentar a vacinação do paciente; 20) doenças transmissíveis endêmico-epidêmicas devem ser investigadas e tratadas.

OBJECTIVE: To elaborate recommendations for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis in Brazil. METHOD: Literature review with articles' selection based on evidence and the expert opinion of the Rheumatoid Arthritis Committee of the Brazilian Society of Rheumatology. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: 1) The therapeutic decision should be shared with the patient; 2) immediately after the diagnosis, a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) should be prescribed, and the treatment adjusted to achieve remission; 3) treatment should be conducted by a rheumatologist; 4) the initial treatment includes synthetic DMARDs; 5) methotrexate is the drug of choice; 6) patients who fail to respond after two schedules of synthetic DMARDs should be assessed for the use of biologic DMARDs; 7) exceptionally, biologic DMARDs can be considered earlier; 8) anti-TNF agents are preferentially recommended as the initial biologic therapy; 9) after therapeutic failure of a first biologic DMARD, other biologics can be used; 10) cyclophosphamide and azathioprine can be used in severe extra-articular manifestations; 11) oral corticoid is recommended at low doses and for short periods of time; 12) non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs should always be prescribed in association with a DMARD; 13) clinical assessments should be performed on a monthly basis at the beginning of treatment; 14) physical therapy, rehabilitation, and occupational therapy are indicated; 15) surgical treatment is recommended to correct sequelae; 16) alternative therapy does not replace traditional therapy; 17) family planning is recommended; 18) the active search and management of comorbidities are recommended; 19) the patient's vaccination status should be recorded and updated; 20) endemic-epidemic transmissible diseases should be investigated and treated.

Registro brasileiro de biológicos: processo de implementação e resultados preliminares do BiobadaBrasil / Brazilian biologic registry: BiobadaBrasil implementation process and preliminary results

OBJETIVOS: O presente estudo teve por objetivo descrever o processo de implementação de um registro nacional em um país em desenvolvimento (Brasil) e relatar os principais resultados preliminares do registro BiobadaBrasil. MATERAL E MÉTODOS: Através de um acordo com a PANLAR, o protocolo Biobadaser foi utilizado como modelo para a implementação de um novo registro no nosso país. Durante os dois primeiros anos desse esforço, o protocolo original foi adaptado, traduzido e apresentado a todos os reumatologistas brasileiros. Durante dez meses, dados de 1.037 pacientes (750 tratados com biológicos e 287 controles) de 15 centros foram coletados. RESULTADOS: A maioria dos pacientes tinha artrite reumatoide (AR) (n = 723). Infliximabe foi o agente anti-TNF mais usado, e a exposição total a biológicos foi 2.101 pacientes-ano. A razão mais comum para suspensão da droga foi ineficiência ou perda de efetividade (50 por cento), e 30 por cento dos pacientes interromperam o tratamento devido a eventos adversos. Três casos de tuberculose foram observados no grupo biológico, representando maior incidência do que aquela da população brasileira geral. Infecções foram observadas em 23 por cento dos pacientes do grupo biológico, sendo o trato respiratório superior o local mais comumente afetado. Apenas um caso de hanseníase tuberculoide foi observado. Nenhuma morte nem malignidade atribuível ao efeito dos medicamentos foi observada até fevereiro de 2010. CONCLUSÕES: A implementação do registro foi bem sucedida. Embora recente, o registro BiobadaBrasil já forneceu importantes dados.

OBJECTIVES: The present study aimed at describing the implementation process of a national registry in a developing country (Brazil) and at reporting the main preliminary results of the BiobadaBrasil registry. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Through a PANLAR agreement, the Biobadaser protocol was used as a model for implementing the new registry in our country. During the first two years of this effort, the original protocol was adapted, translated, and presented to all Brazilian rheumatologists. For ten months, data of 1,037 patients (750 subjects treated with biological drugs and 287 control subjects) from 15 centers were collected. RESULTS: Most patients had rheumatoid arthritis (RA) (n = 723). Infliximab was the most frequently used anti-TNF agent, and the total exposure to biologic drugs was 2,101 patient-years. The most common reason for interrupting drug use was lack or loss of efficacy (50 percent), while 30 percent withdrew from the treatment arm due to adverse events. Three cases of tuberculosis were observed in the biologic group, with an incidence higher than that of the general Brazilian population. Infections were observed in 23 percent of the biologic group, and the upper respiratory tract was the most commonly affected site. Only one case of tuberculoid leprosy was observed. No deaths or malignancies attributed to drug effects were observed as of February 2010. CONCLUSIONS: The implementation of the BiobadaBrasil registry was successful, and, although recent, the registry has provided important data.

Interações medicamentosas: uma contribuição para o uso racional de imunossupressores sintéticos e biológicos / Drug interactions: a contribution to the rational use of synthetic and biological immunosuppressants

Interação medicamentosa é um evento clínico em que os efeitos de um fármaco são alterados pela presença de outro fármaco, fitoterápico, alimento, bebida ou algum agente químico ambiental. A incidência de reações adversas causadas por interações medicamentosas é desconhecida. Contribui para esse desconhecimento o fato de não se saber o número de pacientes aos quais foram e são prescritas as combinações de medicamentos com potencial para interações. Não é possível distinguir claramente quem irá ou não experimentar uma interação medicamentosa adversa. Possivelmente, pacientes com múltiplas doenças, com disfunção renal ou hepática e aqueles que fazem uso de muitos medicamentos são os mais suscetíveis. Dentre as condições que colocam os pacientes em alto risco para interações medicamentosas está o grupo de portadores de doenças autoimunes. Além de apresentarem um risco para o paciente e um insucesso para o profissional da saúde, as interações medicamentosas podem aumentar muito os custos da saúde. O objetivo desta revisão é abordar as interações clinicamente importantes das drogas mais usadas em reumatologia (exceto os anti-inflamatórios não esteroide e corticosteroides) com o intuito de auxiliar os prescritores reumatologistas no desafio de intervir farmacologicamente nos processos de doença, buscando melhores desfechos para os pacientes e menores gastos com a complexa terapêutica das doenças crônicas sob sua responsabilidade.

Drug interaction is a clinical event in which the effects of a drug are altered by the presence of another drug, phytochemical drug, food, beverage, or any environmental chemical agent. The incidence of adverse reactions caused by drug interactions is unknown. This lack of information is compounded by not knowing the number of patients who are prescribed combinations of drugs that can potentially interact. Patients who will or will not experience an adverse drug interaction cannot be clearly identified. Those with multiple diseases, with kidney or liver dysfunction, and those on many drugs are likely to be the most susceptible. Patients with autoimmune diseases are at higher risk for drug interactions. In addition to representing a risk for the patient and jeopardizing the health care provided by professionals, drug interactions can increase dramatically health care costs. This review article approached the clinically relevant interactions between the most used drugs in rheumatology (except for non-steroidal anti-inflammatories and corticosteroids) aiming at helping rheumatologists to pharmacologically interfere in the disease processes, in the search for better outcomes for patients and lower costs with the complex therapy of chronic diseases they deal with.