Moxibustion as an adjunctive treatment for rheumatoid arthritis and its effects on the serum levels of SOST and β-catenin / 中国针灸

OBJECTIVES@#To observe the clinical efficacy of moxibustion as an adjunctive treatment for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) based on conventional medication and its effects on serum sclerostin (SOST) and β-catenin levels, exploring the potential mechanisms by which moxibustion may protect joint bones in RA patients.@*METHODS@#Seventy-six RA patients were randomly divided into an observation group (38 cases, 3 cases dropped out) and a control group (38 cases, 4 cases were eliminated, 2 cases dropped out). The patients in the control group were treated with conventional oral medication; based on the treatment of the control group, the patients in the observation group were treated with moxibustion. The direct moxibustion was applied at Zusanli (ST 36) on both sides and ashi points around small joints, and indirect moxibustion was applied at Shenshu (BL 23) on both sides and ashi points around large joints. The treatment was given three times a week for a total of 5 weeks. The count of pain and swollen joint, morning stiffness score, disease activity score of 28 joints (DAS28), visual analogue scale (VAS) score, health assessment questionnaire (HAQ) score, and serum levels of SOST, β-catenin, and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were evaluated before and after treatment in the two groups.@*RESULTS@#Compared those before treatment, after treatment, both groups showed a reduction in pain and swollen joint count (P<0.01, P<0.05), morning stiffness, DAS28, VAS, and HAQ scores (P<0.01, P<0.05), with the observation group having lower scores than the control group (P<0.01). Serum levels of SOST, β-catenin, and TNF-α after treatment in the observation group were lower than those in both before treatment and the control group (P<0.01, P<0.05). There was a positive correlation between the difference in serum β-catenin levels before and after treatment and the difference in serum SOST (r=0.578, P<0.001) and TNF-α (r=0.403, P<0.05) levels in the observation group.@*CONCLUSIONS@#In addition to medication, moxibustion as an adjunctive treatment could significantly alleviate joint pain and reduce disease activity in RA patients, suggesting a potential role in joint protection. This mechanism may be related to the inhibition of the inflammatory factor TNF-α, regulation of β-catenin levels, and reduction in the production of the endogenous negative regulator protein SOST within the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway.

Effect of different suspension moxibustion methods on syndrome characteristics of rats with rheumatoid arthritis of heat bi syndrome based on "moxibustion can be used for heat syndrome" / 中国针灸

OBJECTIVE@#To observe the effects of different suspension moxibustion methods on the syndrome characteristics and inflammatory factors of rats with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) of heat bi syndrome and to prove the concept of "moxibustion can be used for heat syndrome".@*METHODS@#Among seventy Wistar rats, 12 rats were randomly selected as a normal group, and the remaining rats were induced by collagen combined with wind, dampness, and heat environmental stimulation to establish the RA model of heat bi syndrome. Forty-eight rats with successful model establishment were further randomly divided into a model group and three moxibustion groups (mild moxibustion group, rotating moxibustion group and sparrow-pecking moxibustion group), with 12 rats in each group. The acupoints "Quchi" (LI 11), "Dazhui" (GV 14) and ashi point were used in all moxibustion groups, with mild moxibustion, rotating moxibustion, and sparrow-pecking moxibustion intervention given respectively, each acupoint was treated with moxibustion for 10 min a day, and 6 days were considered one course of treatment, with a total of three courses. After the intervention, the arthritis index (AI), the Evans blue (EB) extravasated volume in the soft tissue of the right hind paw, and the levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and interleukin (IL)-10 in the serum were measured by ELISA in each group. The volume of the bilateral hind paw was measured; the infrared thermal imaging was collected to analyze the temperature of the plantar area of the bilateral foot pads, and the reaction time of plantar heat pain was calculated before and after modeling, as well as after the 1st, 2nd and 3rd courses of interrention. The ankle dorsiflexion angle of the right hind foot was also measured before and after modeling, as well as after the intervention.@*RESULTS@#After modeling, compared with the normal group, the rats in the model group had more high-temperature areas in the bilateral hind limbs, abnormal AI score, abnormal bilateral hind paw volume, abnormal temperature of the plantar area of the bilateral foot pads, abnormal foot pain response time, abnormal right hind ankle dorsiflexion angle, abnormal right hind paw soft tissue EB extravasation, and abnormal serum TNF-α and IL-10 levels (P<0.01, P<0.05). After the intervention, compared with the model group, the rats in each moxibustion group had decreased or disappeared high-temperature areas in the bilateral hind limbs, EB extravasated volume in the soft tissue of the right hind paw was reduced (P<0.05), and the right ankle dorsiflexion angle was increased (P<0.05), serum level of TNF-α was reduced, and level of IL-10 increased (P<0.05); the AI scores in the mild moxibustion group and the sparrow-pecking moxibustion group was decreased (P<0.01, P<0.05). After the 1st, 2nd and 3rd courses of intervention, compared with the model group, the bilateral hind paw volume of rats in each moxibustion group was decreased (P<0.05, P<0.01), and plantar heat pain reaction time was increased (P<0.05). After the 2nd course and the 3rd course of intervention, the temperature of the right hind paw pad area was decreased in each moribustion group (P<0.05); after the 3rd courses of intervention, the temperature of the left hind paw pad area was decreased in the mild moxibustion group (P<0.05).@*CONCLUSION@#Suspension moxibustion could adjust the serum levels of TNF-α and IL-10 to improve the syndrome characteristics of RA rats of heat bi syndrome, such as joint redness, swelling, heat, pain and activity restriction. The effect of mild moxibustion is the most prominent. The findings could provide scientific basis for "moxibustion can be used for heat syndrome".

Artritis reumatoide de la columna cervical: aspectos clave para el cirujano ortopédico / Rheumatoid arthritis of the cervical spine: key aspects for the orthopedic surgeon

La artritis reumatoide es una enfermedad inflamatoria autoinmune crónica que afecta con frecuencia a la columna cervical. El diagnóstico clínico de la afección cervical puede ser difícil; por lo tanto, se recomienda la evaluación radiográfica sistemática de todos los pacientes. El tratamiento oportuno de estas lesiones es importante para preservar la independencia, la función neurológica, e, incluso, la vida de los pacientes. Este artículo es una revisión actualizada de todos los aspectos de la artritis reumatoide de la columna cervical relevantes para el cirujano ortopédico.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease that frequently affects the cervical spine. The clinical diagnosis can be difficult; therefore, a systematic radiographic evaluation of all patients is recommended. The timely treatment of these lesions is important to preserve the self-reliance, the neurological function, and even the lives of the patients. The present article is an update of all the aspects pertaining to cervical spine rheumatoid arthritis that are relevant to the orthopedic surgeon.

Moxibustion regulates T-regulatory/T-helper 17 cell balance by modulating the microRNA-221/suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 axis in a mouse model of rheumatoid arthritis / 中西医结合学报

OBJECTIVE@#Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) progression is associated with the balance of T-regulatory (Treg) and T-helper 17 (Th17) cells, while the role of microRNAs (miRs) in regulating Treg/Th17 cell balance has not been clarified. This study aimed to assess whether moxibustion could regulate Treg/Th17 cell balance by modulating the miR-221/suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 (SOCS3) axis in the RA mouse model.@*METHODS@#A mouse model of collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) was established in male DBA/1J mice. Twenty-two days after CIA induction, the mice received daily treatment with moxibustion for 12 times. Pathological scores were assessed according to the levels of synovial hyperplasia. The expression levels of cytokines interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interferon-γ (IFN-γ), IL-17 and IL-10 were analyzed in serum by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The cluster of differentiation 4 (CD4+) splenocytes was analyzed by fluorescence-activated cell sorting. The expression levels of RA-related miRs and target genes were subsequently detected, and the target of miR-221 was confirmed by the dual-luciferase reporter assay.@*RESULTS@#It was revealed that moxibustion treatment decreased the pathological scores and downregulated the expression levels of IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, IFN-γ and IL-17, while upregulated the expression level of IL-10. The Treg/Th17 cell balance was regulated by moxibustion treatment. The expression level of miR-221 was suppressed by moxibustion treatment. Furthermore, SOCS3 was found as the direct target of miR-221, which mediated the function of moxibustion by regulating the Treg/Th17 cell balance.@*CONCLUSION@#Moxibustion therapy regulated the Treg/Th17 cell balance by modulating the miR-221/SOCS3 axis in the RA mouse model.

Primer consenso cubano sobre el uso de terapia convencional y biológica en pacientes con artritis reumatoide / First Cuban consensus on the use of conventional and biological therapy in patients with rheumatoid arthritis

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Introduction: The development of recommendations for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in the Cuban context may be one of the ways to achieve better control of this disease. Objective: To reach a consensus and update relevant aspects of conventional and biological RA modifier therapy in Cuba. Methods: 18 specialists from 8 Cuban provinces, experts in RA care, were summoned, according to the years of dedication to the specialty, the conferences on this topic and their publications. The first meeting took place in March 2016 in the provincial hospital of Villa Clara, Cuba, with the participation of all the experts. A review of the literature on conventional and biological therapy previously collected by the participants was developed, and two teams were formed: the first would address everything related to conventional therapy in RA (HRCT) and the other, biological therapy in RA (TBAR). Three questionnaires related to the use of corticosteroids, HRCT and TBAR, were prepared, answered by the participants via email. In a second meeting, held in October 2016 in Havana, the analysis of all the responses provided was carried out. Questions with a response of 90% or more votes were considered as recommendations. Results: The questionnaires were answered by 95% of the participants. 9 recommendations and 1 algorithm were established. The recommendations are as follows: methotrexate is the drug of choice in the treatment of RA after diagnosis; The administration of another conventional drug (DMARDc) (azathioprine, salazosulfapyridine, antimalarials and leflunomide) is recommended in patients with a diagnosis of active RA in whom methotrexate is contraindicated or there is a failure in response - consider the administration of low doses of prednisone or equivalent (<7.5 mg/d) associated with DMARDc in patients with active moderate to severe RA, for the shortest possible time; perform serological control including tests for hepatitis B and C viruses and screening for HIV in all patients diagnosed with RA before starting treatment with DMARDc and biologics; in patients in remission or, at least, with a DAS-28 below 3.2, consideration should be given to withdrawing one of the DMARDs or reducing, to the minimum possible expression, the dose of both disease modifiers; if methotrexate fails, tocilizumab in combination with methotrexate or as monotherapy will be indicated. Conclusions: Aspects related to conventional therapy with methotrexate, azathioprine, salazosulfapyridine, antimalarials and leflunomide were agreed. The value of early diagnosis and immediate initiation of DMARDc therapy and the use of glucocorticoids was analyzed. Treatment with tocilizumab, the only biological available in Cuba against RA, will be administered when there is a failure in the response to conventional therapy and combinations between these drugs. It is recommended to hold educational conferences through the mass media aimed at patientshttp(AU)

Guía de práctica clínica para el diagnóstico y manejo inicial de artritis reumatoide en el Seguro Social del Perú (EsSalud) / Clinical Practice Guideline for the diagnosis and initial management of Rheumatoid Arthritis in the Social Security of Peru (EsSalud)

La Artritis Reumatoide (AR) tiene adversas consecuencias en la salud su diagnóstico temprano y manejo óptimo requiere recomendaciones basadas en evidencia de alta calidad adaptadas a cada sistema de salud. Objetivo: Proveer recomendaciones clínicas basadas en evidencia para el diagnóstico y manejo inicial de la AR. Material y Métodos: Se conformó un grupo elaborador de la guía (GEG) que incluyó médicos especialistas y metodólogos. El GEG formuló 10 preguntas clínicas a ser respondidas por la presente GPC. Se realizaron búsquedas sistemáticas de la evidencia publicada en PubMed y CENTRAL entre diciembre 2017 a julio 2019 (revisiones sistemáticas y ­cuando fue considerado pertinente­ estudios primarios). Se seleccionó la evidencia de mayor calidad para responder cada una de las preguntas clínicas planteadas. La certeza de la evidencia fue evaluada usando la metodología Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) y en reuniones de trabajo periódicas, el GEG usó dicha metodología para revisar la evidencia y formular las recomendaciones, los puntos de buena práctica clínica y los flujogramas. Finalmente, la GPC fue aprobada con Resolución N° 132 ­ IETSI ­ ESSALUD ­ 2019. Resultados: La presente GPC abordó 10 preguntas clínicas, divididas en dos temas: diagnóstico y manejo. En base a dichas preguntas se formularon 16 recomendaciones (5 fuertes y 11 condicionales), 45 puntos de buena práctica clínica, y 3 flujogramas. Conclusión: El presente artículo resume la metodología y las conclusiones basadas en evidencias de la GPC para el diagnóstico y manejo inicial de la AR en EsSalud.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) has adverse health consequences its early diagnosis and optimal management requires high quality evidence-based recommendations tailored to each health system. Objective: To provide evidence-based clinical recommendations for the diagnosis and initial management of RA. Material and Methods: A guideline development group (GDG) was formed that included medical specialists and methodologists. The GEG formulated 10 clinical questions to be answered by this CPG. Systematic searches of the evidence published in PubMed and CENTRAL were performed between December 2017 and July 2019 (systematic reviews and -when considered relevant- primary studies). The highest quality evidence was selected to answer each of the clinical questions posed. The certainty of the evidence was evaluated using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) methodology, and in periodic working meetings, the GEG used this methodology to review the evidence and formulate the recommendations, good clinical practice points, and flowcharts. Finally, the CPG was approved by Resolution No. 132 - IETSI - ESSALUD - 2019. Results: This CPG addressed 10 clinical questions, divided into two topics: diagnosis and management. Based on these questions, 16 recommendations (5 strong and 11 conditional), 45 points of good clinical practice, and 3 flowcharts were formulated. Conclusion: This article summarizes the methodology and evidence-based conclusions of the CPG for the diagnosis and initial management of RA in EsSalud.

Evidence for the efficacy of Tai Chi for treating rheumatoid arthritis: an overview of systematic reviews

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic disease with higher prevalence among women aged between 30 and 50 years and general prevalence of 1% worldwide. Interventions promoting improvement of quality of life for individuals with RA are required. Tai Chi appears to be a low-cost alternative, with studies showing positive results from this technique. However, regarding aspects of RA such as pain and sensitivity, studies remain inconclusive. OBJECTIVES: To compare the effectiveness of the Tai Chi method for treating patients diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, among systematic reviews. DESIGN AND SETTING: Overview of systematic reviews with Cochrane and non-Cochrane methodology. METHODS: Systematic reviews involving quasi-randomized and randomized clinical trials (RCTs) on use of Tai Chi, with no restrictions regarding the date and language of publication, were included. RESULTS: Three systematic reviews were included. The effects of Tai Chi associated with education and stretching exercises versus education and stretching were evaluated in these reviews. They showed that improvements in the variables of mood, depression and functional index were associated with use of Tai Chi. CONCLUSIONS: The findings suggest that clinical improvement was achieved, although not statistically significant with regard to pain and disease pattern, as assessed using the ACR20 measurement. Improvements relating to disability and quality of life were also seen. There was a low level of evidence and therefore caution in data analysis is recommended. The three studies included showed poor reliability for providing an accurate and complete summary of use of Tai Chi among people diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. PROSPERO: CRD42019125501.

Phototherapy Induces an Improvement in Clinical and Biochemical Scores in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis

ABSTRACT Objective: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a common autoimmune disease for which there is no known cure. Ultraviolet light can induce immunosuppressive effects. Our main objective was to ascertain whether a complementary treatment with phototherapy would improve changes in functional scales in patients with RA. Methods: Seven women with RA were enrolled for this study and submitted to phototherapy sessions with a 425-650 nm lamp. Results: The Karnofsky scale changed from requiring frequent medical care to being capable of normal activity with few symptoms or signs of disease (p = 0.018), the rheumatoid arthritis-specific quality of life questionnaire decreased abruptly from 29 to 0 points (p = 0.018), the Steinbrocker functional capacity rating changed from limited to little or none of the duties of usual occupation or self-care to complete ability to carry out all the usual duties without handicaps (p = 0.017). The pain was remitted after the treatment period. The acute inflammation variables showed a significant decrease after the indicated sessions, C-reactive protein (p = 0.042) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (p = 0.018). Conclusion: The evaluated scales clearly show a benefit with the phototherapy in patients with RA. Thus, phototherapy seems to be a plausible complementary option to reduce the symptoms of RA.

Cambio de diagnóstico y de categoría diagnóstica en pacientes con artritis idiopática juvenil en 7 años de seguimiento / Change of diagnosis and diagnostic category in patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis within 7 years of follow-up

Resumen: Introducción: Al menos 50% de los pacientes pediátricos portadores de artritis idiopática juvenil (AIJ) continuará control en reumatología adulto. La clasificación de la Liga Internacional de Asociaciones de Reumatología (ILAR) vigente, actualmente en revisión, difiere de la clasificación de las artritis inflamatorias del adulto. Se ha reportado cambios de categoría en 10,8% de los pacientes durante el seguimiento. Objetivo: Analizar los pacientes con AIJ seguidos al menos 7 años para objetivar cambios de diagnós tico en la transición, e identificar factores de mal pronóstico funcional. Pacientes y Método: Estudio retrospectivo en base a registros clínicos. Se incluyó a la totalidad de los pacientes con AIJ controla dos en policlínico pediátrico del Hospital de Puerto Montt entre el año 2005 y 2017, que cumplieron siete o más años de seguimiento. Se realizó análisis descriptivo en base a variables clínicas: categoría diagnóstica, tiempo de evolución al diagnóstico, actividad clínica y serológica, y tiempo de evolución al inicio de la terapia farmacológica. Resultados: Se evaluaron 18 pacientes, 3 Oligo-articular (OA) persistente, 1 OA extendida, 4 Poli-articular (PA) factor reumatoide (FR) negativo, 4 PA FR positivo, 5 Sistémicas, 1 Psoriática, todos con seguimiento mayor a 7 años. Once de 18 niños fueron transfe ridos a adultos. Tres de 11 cambiaron de diagnóstico a Artritis Reumatoide (AR) más otra enferme dad autoinmune: Síndrome de Sjögren + Lupus eritematoso sistémico, Púrpura trombocitopénico inmune, Enfermedad autoinmune no clasificada y cinco de 11 niños de categoría ILAR: OA a Artritis reumatoide juvenil, OA extendida a PA FR negativo, 3 Sistémicas a PA FR negativo. Edad de inicio, formas poli-articulares, retrasos en diagnóstico y comienzo de terapia se asociaron a secuelas e infla mación persistente. Conclusiones: Ocho de once pacientes transferidos cambiaron denominación diagnóstica y/o presentaron otras enfermedades autoinmunes. Algunos factores de mal pronóstico deben mejorar.

Abstract: Introduction: At least 50% of pediatric patients with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) will require continued fo llow-up in adult rheumatology. The present International League of Associations for Rheumatology (ILAR) classification, currently under revision, differs from its classification of inflammatory arthritis in adults. Category changes have been reported in 10.8% of patients during follow-up. Objective: To analyze JIA patients in follow-up for at least 7 years to detect diagnosis changes during transition to adult care, identifying factors of poor functional prognosis. Patients and Method: Retrospective study based on medical records of JIA patients seen at the pediatric polyclinic of the Puerto Montt Hospital between 2005 and 2017, who were monitored for at least 7 years. Descriptive analysis was performed according to clinical variables: diagnostic category, evolution before diagnosis, clinical and serological activity, and evolution before starting drug therapy. Results: We evaluated 18 pa tients, corresponding to 3 patients with persistent oligoarticular arthritis (OA), 1 with extended OA, 4 with polyarticular arthritis (PA) rheumatoid factor (RF) negative, 4 with PA RF positive, 5 with syste mic JIA, and 1 with psoriatic arthritis, all have had follow-up more than 7 years. 11 out of 18 patients transitioned to adult care. Three out of 11 patients changed diagnosis to Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) plus another autoimmune disease such as Sjögren's Syndrome + Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, Immune thrombocytopenia, or unclassified autoimmune disease, and 5 out of 11 children changed ILAR category from OA to Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis, extended OA to PA RF negative, and 3 from Systemic arthritis to PA RF negative. Age of onset, polyarticular forms, delay in diagnosis, and the start of therapy were associated with sequelae and persistent inflammation. Conclusions: Eight of the eleven JIA patients who transitioned to adult care changed their diagnosis or presented other autoimmune diseases. Some factors of poor prognosis must improve.

Gamma glutamil transferasa, marcador de eficacia clínica del ozono médico y su papel en la artritis reumatoide y la osteoartritis de rodilla / Gamma glutamyl transferase: an indicator of medical ozone clinical efficacy and its pathological role in rheumatoid arthritis and knee osteoarthritis

Introducción: El ozono médico tiene eficacia clínica e incrementa la relación beneficio/riesgo en pacientes con artritis reumatoide tratados con la terapia combinada metotrexate + ozono. Hoy, la gamma glutamil transferasa se considera como un marcador de riesgo de enfermedades de una alta morbilidad y mortalidad, y tiene particular valor en la artritis reumatoide por desempeñar un papel patológico asociado al estrés oxidativo y a la remodelación ósea, lo que causa daño al cartílago y al hueso. Objetivo: Evaluar los efectos del ozono médico sobre los niveles de gamma glutamil transferasa. Métodos: Se estudiaron pacientes portadores de dos enfermedades artríticas: artritis reumatoide (n = 100; grupo tratado con metotrexate [n = 50] y grupo con metotrexate + ozono [n = 50]) y osteoartritis de rodilla (n = 40; grupo precondicionado con ozono antes de la artroscopía [n = 20] y grupo sin pretratamiento con ozono antes de la artroscopía [n = 20]). Los pacientes con artritis reumatoide fueron valorados con indicadores clínicos específicos, incluidos los niveles de anticuerpos contra péptidos cíclicos citrulinados, así como las concentraciones de glutatión reducido, importante antioxidante endógeno. Resultados: El ozono médico reguló la actividad sérica de gamma glutamil transferasa. Correlacionó de forma inversamente proporcional con los niveles de glutatión reducido que, a su vez, fue el único marcador redox que para los pacientes tratados con la terapia combinada metotrexate + ozono fue directamente proporcional con todas las variables clínicas evaluadas. Conclusión: Se debe considerar a la gamma glutamil transferasa un indicador de la eficacia clínica del ozono médico en las enfermedades estudiadas, por su doble función: biomarcador de estrés oxidativo e indicador de la remodelación patológica del hueso(AU)

Introduction: Medical ozone has demonstrated its clinical efficacy as well as the increase of beneficial/risk relationship in rheumatoid arthritis patients treated with metotrexate+ozone combined therapy. At present, gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase is considered as risk indicator of high morbimortality diseases. It has a special value in arthritis diseases due to its pathologic role associated to oxidative stress and in the abnormal bone remodeling processes. Objective: Assess the ozone medical effects on gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase levels. Method: Patients who suffered of two arthritic diseases: rheumatoid arthritis (n=100; Group treated with Metotrexate (n=50) and metotrexate+ozone (n=50) and knee osteoarthritis (n=40); Group preconditioned with ozone before arthroscopy (n=20) and Group without previous treatment with ozone before arthroscopy (n=20). Rheumatoid arthritis patients were assessed through specific clinic indicators which included antibodies against cyclic citrullinate peptides as well as reduced gluthatione concentrations which are an important endogenous antioxidant. Results: Medical ozone regulated serum gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase activity which correlated in inverse proportion to reduced glutathione levels which was the only one redox marker that correlated with all clinical variables (p < 0.05) when patients were treated with metotrexate+ozone. Conclusion: Gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase should be considered as biomarker of medical ozone clinical efficacy in rheumatoid arthritis and knee osteoarthritis due to GGT´s both pathologic functions: indicator of oxidative stress and abnormal bone remodeling processes(AU)

Artropatías en el adulto mayor / Arthropathies in the elderly

Introducción: Los pacientes mayores de 65 años son la parte de la población más afectada por las enfermedades reumáticas. El diagnóstico reumatológico en los ancianos se complica por las manifestaciones clínicas que imitan los cambios relacionados con la edad. Objetivo: Sintetizar los aspectos generales del manejo clínico, el diagnóstico y la terapéutica de las principales enfermedades reumáticas inflamatorias y no inflamatorias en este subgrupo de población. Desarrollo: Los principales trastornos musculoesqueléticos no inflamatorios que afectan a los adultos mayores son la osteoartritis, la osteoporosis y el dolor de espalda, mientras que las artritis inflamatorias predominantes comprenden la artritis reumatoide, la artropatía cristalina, la polimialgia reumática y las formas inflamatorias de la osteoartritis. Conclusiones: Para el diagnóstico y la terapéutica de las principales enfermedades reumáticas (inflamatorias y no inflamatorias) en este subgrupo de población, es necesario el enfoque multidisciplinar(AU)

Introduction: It is recognized that patients older than 65 years are the part of the population most affected by rheumatic diseases. The rheumatological diagnosis in the elderly is complicated by clinical manifestations, which mimic the changes related to age. Objective: To synthesize the general aspects of clinical management, diagnosis and therapy of the main rheumatic diseases inflammatory and non-inflammatory in this subgroup of the population. Development: The main non-inflammatory musculoskeletal disorders that affect older adults are osteoarthritis, osteoporosis and back pain, while the predominant inflammatory arthritis include rheumatoid arthritis, crystalline arthropathy, polymyalgia rheumatica and the inflammatory forms of osteoarthritis. Conclusions: It is vital for academics to be involved in the rheumatological aspects of aging and call attention to the imperative that is to promote reflective discussion within community medicine to address the impact of musculoskeletal problems that affect function and mobility of the elderly and immune dysregulation in aging, among other issues(AU)

Effect of moxibustion on PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway in foot-pad synovium in rats with rheumatoid arthritis / 中国针灸

OBJECTIVE@#To observe the effect of moxibustion on phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B/mammalian target of rapamycin protein (PI3K/Akt/mTOR) signaling pathway in the foot-pad synovial tissue in rats with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and to explore the mechanism of moxibustion for treating RA.@*METHODS@#Forty healthy SD rats were randomly divided into a control group, a model group, a moxibustion group, a cigarette-moxibustion group and a medication group, 8 rats in each group. The RA model was established with subcutaneous injection of complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA) in the left hind foot-pad under wind, cold and wet environment in the model group, the moxibustion group, the cigarette-moxibustion group and the medication group. The rats in the moxibustion group were treated with moxibustion at "Zusanli" (ST 36) for 20 min; the rats in the cigarette-moxibustion group were treated with moxibustion of ordinary cigarette at "Zusanli" (ST 36) for 20 min; the rats in the medication group were treated with tripterygium glycosides suspension (0.8 mg/100 g) by gavage. All the intervention was given once a day for 15 days. The left hind foot-pad volume was measured before and after modeling and after 15-day intervention. After 15-day intervention, the serum levels of IL-17 and IL-23 were detected by ELISA method, and the expression levels of PI3K, Akt and mTOR in synovial tissue of left hind foot-pad were detected by Western blot method.@*RESULTS@#The volume of left hind foot-pad, the serum levels of IL-23 and IL-17 and the expression of PI3K, Akt and mTOR in synovial tissue of left hind foot-pad in the model group were higher than those in the control group (@*CONCLUSION@#Moxibustion may play a therapeutic effect on RA by inhibiting the level of IL-23, IL-17 and the activity PI3K/Akt/mTOR, and regulating inflammatory response and autophagy.

Yoga para o tratamento de dor crônica e aguda em adultos e idosos: qual a eficácia/efetividade e a segurança do yoga para tratamento da dor aguda ou crônica em população adulta? / Yoga for the treatment of chronic and acute pain in adults and the elderly: what is the efficacy/effectiveness and safety of yoga for the treatment of acute or chronic pain in an adult population?

O yoga caracteriza-se como uma prática integrativa de origem oriental que combina posições corporais, técnicas de respiração, meditação e relaxamento. É indicada no tratamento de sistemas musculoesquelético, endócrino, respiratório, além de outros agravos à saúde, e estimula as funções cognitivas. Qual a eficácia/efetividade e a segurança do yoga para tratamento da dor aguda ou crônica em população adulta? As buscas foram realizadas nas bases de dados Pubmed, HSE-Health Systems Evidence, Epistemonikos, Portal Regional da BVS, HE-Health Evidence e Embase, em 27 de setembro de2019. Foram incluídas revisões sistemáticas (RS), com ou sem metanálises, publicadas em inglês, espanhol e português, e que que avaliavam o yoga no tratamento de dor crônica e aguda na população adulta e/ou idosa. Não houve restrição em relação ao ano de publicação. As estratégias de busca foram utilizadas com base na combinação de palavras-chave estruturadas a partir do acrônimo PICOS, usando os termos MeSH no Pubmed e DeCS na BVS, adaptando-os ao HSE, Epistemonikos, HE e Embase. A qualidade metodológica das revisões sistemáticas selecionadas foi avaliada segundo a ferramenta Assessing the Methodological Quality of Systematic Reviews(AMSTAR 2). De 693 artigos identificados, dez revisões sistemáticas foram selecionadas, oito delas com meta-análises. Com relação à qualidade metodológica, três revisões foram consideradas de qualidade moderada, duas de baixa qualidade e cinco de qualidade criticamente baixa. Na lombalgia crônica, a prática de yoga, quando comparada a atividades passivas, cuidado habitual, educação, atendimento médico padrão, controle de atenção, lista de espera, sem exercícios físicos, mostrou ser eficaz na diminuição da dor em curto, médio e longo prazos. Os resultados são mais consistentes com relação aos efeitos em curto e médio prazos. Na comparação de yoga com exercícios físicos as evidências resultam de poucos estudos e são controversas, mostrando benefício em curto e médio prazos no controle de lombalgia ou diferenças estatisticamente não significantes. Yoga, em comparação a intervenções passivas, sem exercícios físicos, mostrou ser benéfico também para melhorar quadros de incapacidade específica relacionada à lombalgia, em curto, médio e longo prazos. Além disso, houve melhora clínica dos casos de lombalgia a favor de yoga em curto e médio prazos. Na dor cervical crônica, as revisões mostraram evidências de efeitos benéficos de yoga para redução da dor quando comparado a cuidados habituais ou exercícios, entretanto não houve diferença com pilates ou medicina complementar e alternativa Da mesma forma, yoga mostrou-se superior a cuidados habituais e exercícios na redução da incapacidade relacionada dor cervical. A qualidade de vida e o humor melhoraram com yoga em relação a cuidados habituais. Yoga parece trazer benefícios também para pessoas com quadros de dor relacionados a osteoartrite e artrite reumatoide, fibromialgia, síndromes do túnel do carpo e do intestino irritável. No entanto, os resultados são menos consistentes. Com relação à segurança da prática de yoga, as evidências mostraram eventos adversos em geral sem gravidade. E quando comparado a exercícios não houve diferença no relato de eventos adversos. As revisões sistemáticas apresentaram resultados favoráveis à prática de yoga em relação aos cuidados habituais, particularmente nos casos de dor lombar e cervical. Há menos evidências acerca da superioridade do yoga em comparação a intervenções ativas. Em outras situações estudadas, como a dor associada a fibromialgia, osteoartrite, artrite reumatoide, síndromes do túnel do carpo e do intestino irritável, as evidências são menos consistentes. É importante ressaltar que as revisões sistemáticas incluídas nesta revisão rápida foram consideradas de baixa confiança na avaliação com a ferramenta AMSTAR 2. Além disso, os resultados têm como base estudos primários com amostras pequenas, com heterogeneidade na aplicação das intervenções, e considerável risco de viés. Isso remete à necessidade de se realizar ensaios clínicos, bem como revisões sistemáticas, com melhor qualidade metodológica

Uso de la medicina natural en el tratamiento de la artritis reumatoide / Use of natural medicine in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis

Introducción: la artritis reumatoide es una enfermedad inflamatoria, sistémica y crónica que afecta fundamentalmente el sistema osteomioarticular. Clinicamente se caracterizan por la presencia de dolor, inflamación, rigidez y deformidad. Estos elementos inciden en la aparición de la discapacidad funcional y en la disminución de la percepción de la calidad de vida relacionada con la salud. Objetivo: dar a conocer las ventajas del uso de la medicina natural en el tratamiento de la artritis reumatoide. Método: se realizó un estudio no experimental, descriptivo y retrospectivo en 115 pacientes a los cuales se les adicionó medicamentos naturales para el control de su enfermedad. Resultados: promedio de edad de 56,58 años con predominio de pacientes femeninas (69.60 por ciento), de color de la piel blanca (55.20 por ciento) y entre 50 y 59 años de edad (29.60 por ciento). La combinación de esteroides y methotrexate fue la más utilizad (55.20por ciento). La MNT se utilizó en el 62.4 por ciento de los pacientes con destaque para el servicio de hospitalización con una utilización del 79.19 por ciento. Los fitofármacos y la acupuntura fueron las modalidades más representadas. Conclusiones: existe un elevado por ciento de aplicación de la MNT en los esquemas terapéuticos de los pacientes con AR. Los fitofármacos y la acupuntura son las modalidades de mayor indicación. Los usuarios y prestadores mostraron elevados porcientos de aceptación al uso de la MNT en pacientes con enfermedades crónicas(AU)

Introduction: rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory, systemic and chronic disease that mainly affects the osteomyoarticular system. Clinically they are characterized by the presence of pain, inflammation, stiffness and deformity. These elements affect the appearance of functional disability and the reduction of the perception of the quality of life related to health. Objective: to present the advantages of the use of natural medicine in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. Method: a not experimental, descriptive, retrospective study was conducted in 115 patients to whom natural medicines were added to control their disease. Results: average age of 56.58 years with predominance of female patients (69.60 percent), white skin color (55.20 percent) and between 50 and 59 years of age (29.60 percent). The combination of steroids and methotrexate was the most used (55.20 percent). The NTM was used in 62.4 percent of the patients with a highlight for the hospitalization service with a utilization of 79.19 percent. The phytopharmaceuticals and acupuncture were the most represented modalities. Conclusions: there is a high percentage of application of NTM in the therapeutic schemes of patients with RA. The phytopharmaceuticals and acupuncture are the most indicated modalities. The users and providers showed high percentages of acceptance to the use of MNT in patients with chronic diseases(AU)

¿La periodontitis crónica modifica la morbilidad de la artritis reumatoide?: aspectos clínicos y moleculares. Una revisión sistemática / Association between chronic periodontitis and rheumatoid arthritis: a systematic review

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and chronic periodontitis (CP) may be related due to a bidirectional etiology. The evidence shows that CP could alter the clinical course of RA. We performed a systematic search to determine if CP alters the morbidity of RA, analyzing its clinical and molecular aspects. Of 552 initial articles found, 16 were selected for a thorough review. There is a greater prevalence of CP in patients with RA. Patients with RA have significantly higher values of periodontal clinical parameters than healthy controls. Arthritis activity is significantly greater in patients who suffer from CP and decreases with nonsurgical periodontal treatment. There is a significant relationship between the severity of CP and RA activity.

Ocular manifestations of rheumatoid arthritis and complications of hydroxychloroquine treatment

Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is the most common autoimmune disease. Ocular manifestations of RAvary and are mainly keratoconjunctivitis sicca, episcleritis, scleritis and keratitis. Antimalarial drugs [hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) and chloroquine (CQ)] have been used for the treatment of RA. Objective: The aim of this study was to study the ocular manifestations of rheumatoid arthritis and the complications of the use of hydroxychloroquine in treatment. Patients and methods: A prospective study that was conducted at Al-Zahraa University Hospital. The study included a total of 80 eyes of 40 patients. Patients were divided into two groups: Group (1) 20 RA patients not using HCQ treatment and group (2) 20 RA patients using HCQ treatment. All patients underwent complete ophthalmic examination including SD-OCT. Results: the most ocular manifestations found in patients were keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) 93.8%, scleritis and episcleritis 2.5%, acute anterior uveitis (AAU) and sclerosing keratitis 1.3%. Regarding SD-OCT finding comparing between the two groups, we found signs of early HCQ retinopathy in patients of group 2 in the form of parafoveal and perifoveal thining compared to group 1. Conclusion: RA is associated with many extra-articular manifestations, HCQ and CQ used in treatment of RA have significant efficacy and safety, but with long duration of using can cause retinopathy, and follow up of patients is necessary to detect early retinopathy

Pancitopenia y aplasia medular asociada a abatacept en una paciente con Artritis Reumatoide / Pancytopenia and medular aplasia associated to abatacept in a patient with rheumatoid arthritis

El tratamiento de pacientes con artritis reumatoide (AR) debe ser temprano y agresivo para prevenir el daño articular y la discapacidad. Los fármacos no biológicos modificadoes de enfermedad, como el metotrexato, han sido utilizados par controlar la actividad de la enfermedad y para prevenir el daño de las articulaciones. Existen pacientes con AR resistentes al tratamiento con fármacos modificadores de la enfermedad y otros que no responden adecuadamente a la terapia con inhibidores de factores de necrosis tumoral. Nosotros describimos el caso de una paciente de sexo femenino de 77 años que se presentó al servicio de emergencias con fiebre, mucositis y mal estado general luego de recibir una dosis de abatacept. A su ingreso el laboratorio demostró: glóbulos blancos 500 cel/mm3, neutrófilos 150 cel/mm3, plaquetas 21000 cel/mm3, hematocrito 29%, VCM 81, LDH 314 UI/L, función renal y hepatograma normales. En el examen clínico se objetivaron ulceras y lesiones ampollares en mucosa yugal. El medulograma evidenció hipocelularidad, con disminución de las tres series. El informe anatomopatológico fue de médula ósea hipoplásica. Recibió tratamiento con factor estimulante de colonias de neutrófilos, ácido fólico y metilprednisona, con resolución del cuadro a los 3 días de instituido el tratamiento. Hasta nuestro conocimiento esta es la primera comunicación de pancitopenia asociada a abatacept es una paciente con artritis AR intolerante a metotrexato

Treatment of patient with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) should be early and aggressive to prevent joint injury and disability. Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) like methotrexate has been used as initial treatment toward the disease activity and to prevento joint damage. Some patients with RA are resistant to initial therapy with nonbiiologic DMARDs or TNF inhibitiors. We described a 77 years old women who presented to the emergency room with fever andoral lesions after been treated with abatacept. On examination patient appeared ill. She had oral ulcers. laboratory testing showed white cells count 500 cells per mm3, hematocrit 29 %, platelets count 21000 cells per mm3, LDH 314 U/l. Renal and liver functions were normal. Bone marrow showed decreased in the three cells lineages. Patient was treated with granulocyte colony-stimulating factor, folic acid, and prednisone. Patient improved her physical and laboratory features three days after admission. This case showed the rare association between pancytopenia and abatacept in a patient with RA

Perfil de gastos com o tratamento da Artrite Reumatoide para pacientes do Sistema Único de Saúde em Minas Gerais, Brasil, de 2008 a 2013 / Profile of spending on the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis for patients of the Unified Health System in the state of Minas Gerais - 2008-2013

Resumo A artrite reumatoide (AR) é uma doença crônica que afeta cerca de 1% da população adulta. No estudo de coorte histórica de pacientes de Minas Gerais, registrados no Sistema de Informações Ambulatoriais (SIA), em 2008-2013, foram identificados 11.573 indivíduos. A perspectiva foi a do financiador público e os valores observados como gastos do Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS) foram ajustados pelo Índice Nacional de Preços ao Consumidor Amplo (IPCA), de dezembro de 2015. O Etanercept foi o tratamento mais caro. A análise múltipla mostrou uma relação negativa entre o aumento das despesas e idade, sexo feminino e diagnóstico de entrada na coorte, e relação positiva para as variáveis Índice de Desenvolvimento Humano Municipal (IDH-M) e o uso de medicamentos bloqueadores do fator de necrose tumoral (ANTI-TNF). Este estudo identificou os fatores que têm impacto sobre o gasto com o tratamento medicamentoso da AR. Também apontou que métodos que permitem extrair dados demográficos e de gastos de sistemas de informação administrativos podem ser ferramentas importantes na construção de estudos econômicos capazes de subsidiar as avaliações econômicas de saúde, especialmente do ponto de vista da gestão.

Abstract Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic condition that affects about 1% of the adult population. In a historical cohort of Minas Gerais State, 11,573 RA patients registered in the Outpatient Information System (SIA) between 2008 and 2013 were identified. For this study we adopted the public funding body's perspective and the values were adjusted by the national inflation index (IPCA) of December 2015. Etanercept was the most expensive treatment. The mean cohort age was 52 years old and most of the patients were women. Multiple regression analysis indicated a negative association between higher expenditure and age, female sex, and diagnosis at entry in the cohort and positive association between high expenditure and the Human Development Index (HDI) of the municipality and use of tumor necrosis factor agents. This study identified the factors that have an impact on RA drug treatment expenditure. Also, we showed that methods that enable extracting demographic and expenditure data of administrative information systems may represent important tools in the construction of economic studies to subsidize economic health evaluations, especially from the standpoint of the managers.

Implementación de una unidad de artritis reumatoide temprana en pacientes chilenos derivados desde centros de atención primaria de salud / Implementation of an early rheumatoid athritis unit for the early recognition and treatment of the disease

Background: Early recognition of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) provides clinical benefits in terms of remission induction, reduced disease progression, and eventually treatment free remission. Aim: To describe the setting of a Unit devoted exclusively to the recognition and treatment of early RA in patients referred from primary healthcare centers (PHC) in Chile. Materials and Methods: Patients were referred from nine participating PHC from 2014 through 2016. PHC physicians received a formal training to enhance criteria recognition and program adherence. Mandatory referral criteria were an age above 17 years, and arthralgia of less than 1-year duration, plus at least one of the following: morning stiffness of more than 30 minutes, swelling involving more than 3 joints for more than 1 month, a positive squeeze test or abnormal inflammatory serum markers. Results: One hundred twenty patients aged 45 ± 12 years (90% women) were assessed at the early rheumatoid arthritis unit. Median time to referral from PHC to the Unit was 14.6 days. The median duration of symptoms for the overall sample of patients was 10.8 months. RA was identified in 43 patients (36%), with a delay between onset of symptoms and diagnosis of 8.3 months. Regarding the performance of referral criteria, the most sensitive was morning stiffness (80%, sensitivity 95% confidence intervals (CI) 64-89%) and synovitis was the most specific (specificity 83%, 95% CI 72-90%). The positive predictive value of the three clinical criteria altogether was 68.1% (95% CI 47-83%). Conclusions: Institution of an early RA unit was feasible within the Chilean healthcare system enabling the identification of early RA in one-third of patients.

Perfil clínico funcional de pacientes con artritis reumatoide derivados a Fisiatría en control en Centro Reumatólogico Avanzado (CREA) del Hospital Clínico Universidad de Chile / Functional clinical profile of patients with Rheumatoid arthritis derived to Physiatry in control at Centro Reumatólogico Avanzado (CREA) of Hospital Clínico Universidad de Chile

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic inflammatory disease that primarily affects the joints causing varying degrees of disability. Non-pharmacological management is increasing evidence of its usefulness impacting functionality. Objectives: To characterize the clinical / functional profile of patients with rheumatoid arthritis derived physiatrist assessment in the Clinical Hospital University of Chile. Methods: We reviewed the clinical records of patients with RA derivatives Physical Medicine, extraction demographics, medical history, physical examination and functionality. Statisticians analysis of central tendency, dispersion, absolute and relative frequencies. Results: 85 medical records were analyzed. 88.2% were women with an average age of 54.05 ± 11.42 years. 38.8% have at least one comorbidity. 34.1% of patients takes between 6 and 15 years of disease. The average drug related AR is 5.6 per patient, being more Disease Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs (DMARDs) found. 35.2% presented falls in the past year. Pain is a symptom found in the history and physical examination with a VAE (venous air embolism) 4.4 ± 2.43 at the time of consultation and 6.7 ± 3.3 in crisis. 20% received kinesic therapy and only 7% occupational therapy. 45.3% of patients having a value of HAQ (health assesment questionnaire) who scored as moderate disability, even if their selfperception of independence reaches 65.9%. Conclusion: The analysis allows us to perform a demographic, clinical and functional profile that allows us to guide rehabilitation actions. (AU)