MODIFIED MUBARAK TECHNIQUE FOR FLEXIBLE FLATFOOT CORRECTION IN CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS.

Objective: To describe the technique, analyze possible radiographic correction and evaluate the clinical result of medial and plantar calcaneal displacement osteotomy associated with opening wedge cuboid osteotomy for flexible flatfoot correction. Methods: 23 patients (30 feet) diagnosed with flexible flat foot treated with plantar and medial calcaneal displacement osteotomy associated with opening wedge cuboid osteotomy were evaluated retrospectively. In the lateral radiographs calcaneal pitch and Meary's angle were the radiographic parameters evaluated; while the talonavicular coverage angle was evaluated in the anteroposterior radiographs. To assess the clinical outcome of the surgical procedure, the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society Score (AOFAS) for the ankle and hindfoot was adopted. Results: The mean values of the evaluated angles and AOFAS score for ankle and hindfoot significantly improved when comparing pre- and postoperative values. Conclusion: Plantar and medial calcaneal displacement osteotomy associated with an opening wedge cuboid osteotomy is able to improve radiological and clinical parameters of child patients with flexible flatfoot. Level of Evidence III, Retrospective Comparative Study.

Objetivo: Descrever a técnica, analisar possíveis correções radiográficas e avaliar o resultado clínico da osteotomia de deslocamento medial e plantar do calcâneo associada à osteotomia em cunha de adição do cuboide para correção do pé plano flexível de crianças. Métodos: Foram avaliados retrospectivamente 23 pacientes (30 pés) com diagnóstico de pé plano flexível tratadas com osteotomia de deslocamento plantar e medial do calcâneo associada à osteotomia em cunha de adição do cuboide. Os parâmetros radiográficos avaliados nas imagens em perfil foram o pitch do calcâneo e o ângulo de Meary, enquanto nas radiografias anteroposteriores o ângulo de cobertura do tálus. Para avaliar o resultado clínico do procedimento cirúrgico, foi adotado o escore da American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) para tornozelo e retropé. Resultados: Os valores médios dos ângulos avaliados e do escore AOFAS para tornozelo e retropé melhoraram significativamente na comparação dos resultados pré e pós-operatórios. Conclusão: A osteotomia de deslocamento plantar e medial do calcâneo associada à osteotomia em cunha de adição do cuboide é capaz de melhorar os parâmetros radiológicos e clínicos de crianças com pé plano flexível. Nível de Evidência III, Estudo Comparativo Restrospectivo.

Modified mubarak technique for flexible flatfoot correction in children and adolescents / Técnica de mubarak modificado para correção do pé plano flexível de crianças e adolescentes

ABSTRACT Objective: To describe the technique, analyze possible radiographic correction and evaluate the clinical result of medial and plantar calcaneal displacement osteotomy associated with opening wedge cuboid osteotomy for flexible flatfoot correction. Methods: 23 patients (30 feet) diagnosed with flexible flat foot treated with plantar and medial calcaneal displacement osteotomy associated with opening wedge cuboid osteotomy were evaluated retrospectively. In the lateral radiographs calcaneal pitch and Meary's angle were the radiographic parameters evaluated; while the talonavicular coverage angle was evaluated in the anteroposterior radiographs. To assess the clinical outcome of the surgical procedure, the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society Score (AOFAS) for the ankle and hindfoot was adopted. Results: The mean values of the evaluated angles and AOFAS score for ankle and hindfoot significantly improved when comparing pre- and postoperative values. Conclusion: Plantar and medial calcaneal displacement osteotomy associated with an opening wedge cuboid osteotomy is able to improve radiological and clinical parameters of child patients with flexible flatfoot. Level of Evidence III, Retrospective Comparative Study.

RESUMO Objetivo: Descrever a técnica, analisar possíveis correções radiográficas e avaliar o resultado clínico da osteotomia de deslocamento medial e plantar do calcâneo associada à osteotomia em cunha de adição do cuboide para correção do pé plano flexível de crianças. Métodos: Foram avaliados retrospectivamente 23 pacientes (30 pés) com diagnóstico de pé plano flexível tratadas com osteotomia de deslocamento plantar e medial do calcâneo associada à osteotomia em cunha de adição do cuboide. Os parâmetros radiográficos avaliados nas imagens em perfil foram o pitch do calcâneo e o ângulo de Meary, enquanto nas radiografias anteroposteriores o ângulo de cobertura do tálus. Para avaliar o resultado clínico do procedimento cirúrgico, foi adotado o escore da American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) para tornozelo e retropé. Resultados: Os valores médios dos ângulos avaliados e do escore AOFAS para tornozelo e retropé melhoraram significativamente na comparação dos resultados pré e pós-operatórios. Conclusão: A osteotomia de deslocamento plantar e medial do calcâneo associada à osteotomia em cunha de adição do cuboide é capaz de melhorar os parâmetros radiológicos e clínicos de crianças com pé plano flexível. Nível de Evidência III, Estudo Comparativo Restrospectivo.

Rheumatic fever: update on the Jones criteria according to the American Heart Association review - 2015.

Rheumatic fever is still currently a prevalent disease, especially in developing countries. Triggered by a Group A ß-hemolytic Streptococcus infection, the disease may affect genetically predisposed patients. Rheumatic carditis is the most important of its clinical manifestations, which can generate incapacitating sequelae of great impact for the individual and for society. Currently, its diagnosis is made based on the Jones criteria, established in 1992 by the American Heart Association. In 2015, the AHA carried out a significant review of these criteria, with new diagnostic parameters and recommendations. In the present study, the authors perform a critical analysis of this new review, emphasizing the most relevant points for clinical practice.

The impact of comorbidities on the physical function in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

OBJECTIVES: To investigate the association of comorbidities with mobility limitation and functional disability in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and to identify which comorbidity indicator is the most appropriate to determine this association. METHODS: Sixty rheumatoid arthritis patients were enrolled in a cross-sectional study for a period of 11 months. Comorbidities were assessed using three indicators: (i) the total number of comorbidities; (ii) the Charlson comorbidity index; and (iii) the functional comorbidity index. Disease activity was assessed using the Disease Activity Score 28. Functional capacity was measured using the Health Assessment Questionnaire, and mobility was measured using Timed Up and Go Test and Five-Times-Sit-to-Stand Test. Statistical analysis was performed using a stepwise log-linear multiple regression with a significance level of 5%. RESULTS: In the final model, only comorbidity was associated with mobility limitation. The functional comorbidity index score explained 19.1% of the variability of the Five-Times-Sit-to-Stand Test (coefficient of determination [R(2)]=0.191) and 19.5% of the Timed Up and Go Test variability (R(2)=0.195). With regard to functional disability, the associated factors were comorbidity and disease activity, which together explained 32.9% of the variability of the Health Assessment Questionnaire score (adjusted R(2)=0.329). CONCLUSION: Comorbidities were associated with mobility limitation and functional disability in rheumatoid arthritis patients. The functional comorbidity index proved to be an appropriate comorbidity indicator to determine this association.

Intestinal microbiota and active systemic lupus erythematosus: a systematic review

Abstract Background: Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease, characterized by being multi-systemic and, therefore, reaching various organs and affecting mainly young women. Its pathogenesis comprehends many factors, including the interaction between microbiota and immune system. This systematic review assessed the relationship between intestinal microbiota and SLE in activity, highlighting microbiota representative patterns regarding quantity and diversity. Methods: This study considered researches carried out in patients with SLE, with no restriction of age or gender, which fulfilled the classification criteria of either Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinic (SLICC), American College of Rheumatology (ACR) or European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) and used the Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI) to classify disease in activity or remission were included. The search was carried out from October, 2020 to January, 2021 using the following databases: Medline via Pubmed, Scopus, and Embase. Five papers were included with a total of 288 participants with SLE. Results: Regarding microbiota in patients with SLE in activity, there was significant increase in the following genera: Lactobacillus, Streptococcus, Megasphaera, Fusobacterium, Veillonella, Oribacterium, Odoribacter, Blautia, and Campylobacter. On the other hand, decrease in Faecalibacterium and Roseburia genera as well as Ruminococcus gnavus species was observed in remission cases, showing differences between the microbiota profile in SLE in activity and in remission. Conclusions: Results suggest that dysbiosis may be involved in the disease activity process. Trial registration: CRD42021229322 .

Leptin and adiponectin in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: clinical and laboratory correlations.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the serum levels of leptin and adiponectin in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and correlate their levels with disease activity, presence of autoantibodies and clinical manifestations. METHODS: 52 women with SLE and 33 healthy women were evaluated. The patients were divided into two groups, the first with active SLE and the second with inactive SLE. Patients with SLEDAI ≥3 were considered active. Serum levels of leptin (ng/ml) and adiponectin (µg/ml) were measured by enzyme immunoassay. RESULTS: There was a significant difference in leptin levels between SLE and controls (20.7 ± 17.1 vs. 8.0 ± 5.0 ng/mL, P <0.001), but no significant difference in adiponectin levels (87.5 ± 69.7 vs. 118.1 ± 70.6 pg/ml, P = 0.053). No significant difference in levels of leptin and adiponectin was noted between inactive and active SLE groups. There was a significant association between low levels of leptin and positivity for anticardiolipin (aCL) (P = 0.025) and lupus anticoagulant (LA) (p = 0.003) and a significant association between high levels of leptin and the presence of renal disease (p <0.001). However, there was no association between adiponectin levels with autoantibodies and clinical features in SLE patients. CONCLUSION: Patients with SLE had elevated leptin levels, with association with renal involvement. Leptin and adiponectin were not correlated with disease activity. Low levels of leptin have been associated with the presence of LA and aCL.

[Safe use of biological therapies for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and spondyloarthritides]. / Segurança do uso de terapias biológicas para o tratamento de artrite reumatoide e espondiloartrites.

The treatment of autoimmune rheumatic diseases has gradually improved over the last half century, which has been expanded with the contribution of biological therapies or immunobiopharmaceuticals. However, we must be alert to the possibilities of undesirable effects from the use of this class of medications. The Brazilian Society of Rheumatology (Sociedade Brasileira de Reumatologia/SBR) produced a document based on a comprehensive literature review on the safety aspects of this class of drugs, specifically with regard to the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and spondyloarthritides. The themes selected by the participating experts, on which considerations have been established as the safe use of biological drugs, were: occurrence of infections (bacterial, viral, tuberculosis), infusion reactions, hematological, neurological, gastrointestinal and cardiovascular reactions, neoplastic events (solid tumors and hematologic neoplasms), immunogenicity, other occurrences and vaccine response. For didactic reasons, we opted by elaborating a summary of safety assessment in accordance with the previous themes, by drug class/mechanism of action (tumor necrosis factor antagonists, T-cell co-stimulation blockers, B-cell depletors and interleukin-6 receptor blockers). Separately, general considerations on safety in the use of biologicals in pregnancy and lactation were proposed. This review seeks to provide a broad and balanced update of that clinical and experimental experience pooled over the last two decades of use of immunobiological drugs for RA and spondyloarthritides treatment.

2012 Brazilian Society of Rheumatology Consensus on vaccination of patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

OBJECTIVE: To elaborate recommendations to the vaccination of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in Brazil. METHOD: Literature review and opinion of expert members of the Brazilian Society of Rheumatology Committee of Rheumatoid Arthritis and of an invited pediatric rheumatologist. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: The following 12 recommendations were established: 1) Before starting disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs, the vaccine card should be reviewed and updated; 2) Vaccines against seasonal influenza and against H1N1 are indicated annually for patients with RA; 3) The pneumococcal vaccine should be indicated for all patients with RA; 4) The vaccine against varicella should be indicated for patients with RA and a negative or dubious history for that disease; 5) The HPV vaccine should be considered for adolescent and young females with RA; 6) The meningococcal vaccine is indicated for patients with RA only in the presence of asplenia or complement deficiency; 7) Asplenic adults with RA should be immunized against Haemophilus influenzae type B; 8) An additional BCG vaccine is not indicated for patients diagnosed with RA; 9) Hepatitis B vaccine is indicated for patients with RA who are negative for antibodies against HBsAg; the combined hepatitis A and B vaccine should be considered; 10) Patients with RA and at high risk for tetanus, who received rituximab in the preceding 24 weeks, should undergo passive immunization with tetanus immunoglobulin in case of exposure; 11) The YF vaccine is contraindicated to patients with RA on immunosuppressive drugs; 12) The above described recommendations should be reviewed over the course of RA.

Rheumatic fever: update on the Jones criteria according to the American Heart Association review - 2015 / Febre reumática: atualização dos critérios de Jones à luz da revisão da American Heart Association - 2015

ABSTRACT Rheumatic fever is still currently a prevalent disease, especially in developing countries. Triggered by a Group A β-hemolytic Streptococcus infection, the disease may affect genetically predisposed patients. Rheumatic carditis is the most important of its clinical manifestations, which can generate incapacitating sequelae of great impact for the individual and for society. Currently, its diagnosis is made based on the Jones criteria, established in 1992 by the American Heart Association. In 2015, the AHA carried out a significant review of these criteria, with new diagnostic parameters and recommendations. In the present study, the authors perform a critical analysis of this new review, emphasizing the most relevant points for clinical practice.

RESUMO A febre reumática ainda é uma doença prevalente nos tempos atuais, sobretudo nos países em desenvolvimento. Deflagrada por uma infecção pelo Streptococcus β-hemolítico do grupo A, pode afetar pacientes geneticamente predispostos. A cardite reumática é a mais importante das manifestações clínicas, pode gerar sequelas incapacitantes e de grande impacto para o indivíduo e para a sociedade. Atualmente, seu diagnóstico é feito baseado nos Critérios de Jones, estabelecidos em 1992 pela American Heart Association (AHA). Em 2015, a AHA procedeu a uma significativa revisão desses critérios, com novos parâmetros e recomendações diagnósticas. No presente estudo, os autores fazem uma análise crítica dessa nova revisão e enfatizam os pontos de maior relevância para a prática clínica.

Ulcerative colitis and rheumatoid arthritis: a rare association--case report.

Ulcerative colitis is an autoimmune disorder of unknown etiology. Although the large intestine is the major focus of autoimmunity, resulting in chronic diarrhea, that is actually a systemic disease, with numerous extraintestinal manifestations, such as articular involvement. The frequent association of a number of autoimmune diseases in the same patient has been described. However, the coexistence of ulcerative colitis and rheumatoid arthritis is rare. The authors report a case of ulcerative colitis associated with rheumatoid arthritis, in which colitis occurred 12 years before the onset of inflammatory arthropathy.

Functional impairments in white matter syndrome of neuropsychiatric systemic lupus erythematosus are similar to those observed in patients with multiple sclerosis.

OBJECTIVE: In order to compare white matter syndrome of neuropsychiatric systemic lupus erythematosus (NPSLE) and multiple sclerosis (MS), an assessment on demographic, medical history, and clinical data was proposed. METHODS: Sixty-four patients with NPSLE and 178 with MS answered a questionnaire and were evaluated regarding functional system, expanded disability status scale (EDSS), Beck depression inventory (BDI), and Beck anxiety inventory (BAI). RESULTS: The prevalence of autoimmune diseases and altered consciousness was similar in both groups, however it was higher than in the general population. Systemic signs and symptoms occurred from 2.9 to 61.9% of the MS cases, while neurological signs and symptoms occurred in 9.4 to 76.4% of the NPSLE ones. The motor, visual, and mental systems were the most affected in both diseases. The BDI in NPSLE had higher scores and the BAI in MS. CONCLUSIONS: The functional impairments in NPSLE were similar to those of MS, although greater impairment of the functional systems of cerebellar, sensitivity, and sphincters occurred in MS cases, and greater symptoms of depression, anxiety, and headache also occurred in it.

2012 Brazilian Society of Rheumatology Consensus on the management of comorbidities in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

OBJECTIVE: To elaborate recommendations of the Rheumatoid Arthritis Committee of the Brazilian Society of Rheumatology (SBR) to manage comorbidities in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). METHODS: To review the literature and the opinions of the SBR RA Committee experts. RECOMMENDATIONS: 1) Early diagnosis and proper treatment of comorbidities are recommended; 2) The specific treatment of RA should be adapted to the presence of comorbidities; 3) Angiotensin-converting-enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin II receptor blockers are preferred to treat systemic arterial hypertension; 4) In patients diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis and diabetes mellitus, the continuous use of a high cumulative dose of corticoids should be avoided; 5) Statins should be used to maintain LDL cholesterol levels under 100 mg/dL and the atherosclerotic index lower than 3.5 in patients with RA who have other comorbidities; 6) Metabolic syndrome should be treated; 7) Performing non-invasive tests to investigate subclinical atherosclerosis is recommended; 8) Greater surveillance for the early diagnosis of occult malignancy is recommended; 9) Preventive measures of venous thrombosis are suggested; 10) Bone densitometry is recommended in RA patients over the age of 50 years and in younger patients on corticoid therapy at a dose greater than 7.5 mg for over three months; 11) Patients with RA and osteoporosis should be instructed to avoid falls, to increase their dietary calcium intake and sun exposure, and to exercise; 12) Calcium and vitamin D supplementation is suggested. Bisphosphonates are suggested for patients with T score < -2.5 on bone densitometry; 13) A multidisciplinary team, with the active participation of a rheumatologist, is recommended to treat comorbidities.

Drug interactions: a contribution to the rational use of synthetic and biological immunosuppressants.

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.

Influência das comorbidades na capacidade funcional de pacientes com artrite reumatoide / The impact of comorbidities on the physical function in patients with rheumatoid arthritis

Resumo Objetivos: Investigar a associação das comorbidades com a limitação da mobilidade e com a incapacidade funcional em pacientes com artrite reumatoide (AR), bem como identificar o indicador de comorbidade mais apropriado para determinar essa associação. Métodos: Em um estudo transversal foram incluídos 60 pacientes com AR por um período de 11 meses. Comorbidades foram avaliadas por meio de três indicadores: (i) número total de comorbidades (NCom); (ii) índice de comorbidade de Charlson (ICC); e (iii) índice de comorbidade funcional (ICF). A atividade da doença foi avaliada pelo Índice de Atividade da Doença 28 (DAS-28/VHS). A capacidade funcional foi mensurada pelo Questionário de Avaliação da Saúde (HAQ) e a mobilidade foi mensurada pelos testes senta-levanta da cadeira cinco vezes (TSL) e timed get up and go (TUG). A análise estatística foi feita por meio de regressão múltipla log-linear Stepwise com nível de significância de 5%. Resultados: No modelo final, apenas o fator comorbidades (ICF) esteve associado à mobilidade (TSL e TUG). O escore no ICF explicou 19,1% da variabilidade do TSL (coeficiente de determinação [R2] = 0,191) e 19,5% da variabilidade do TUG (R2 = 0,195). Em relação à incapacidade funcional (HAQ), os fatores associados foram o fator comorbidades (ICF) e a atividade da doença (DAS-28/VHS) que em conjunto explicaram 32,9% da variabilidade do escore do HAQ (R2 ajustado = 0,329). Conclusão: As comorbidades estão associadas com a limitação da mobilidade e a incapacidade funcional em pacientes com AR. O ICF demonstrou ser um indicador de comorbidade apropriado para determinar essa associação.

Abstract Objectives: To investigate the association of comorbidities with mobility limitation and functional disability in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and to identify which comorbidity indicator is the most appropriate to determine this association. Methods: Sixty RA patients were enrolled in a cross-sectional study for a period of 11 months. Comorbidities were assessed using three indicators: (i) the total number of comorbidities (NCom); (ii) the Charlson comorbidity index (CCI); and (iii) the functional comorbidity index (FCI). Disease activity was assessed using the Disease Activity Score 28 (DAS-28/ESR). Functional capacity was measured using the Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ), and mobility was measured using Timed Up and Go Test (TUG) and Five Times Sit To Stand Test (FTSTS). Statistical analysis was performed using a stepwise log-linear multiple regression with a significance level of 5%. Results: In the final model, only comorbidity (FCI) was associated with mobility limitation (FTSTS and TUG). The FCI score explained 19.1% of the variability of the FTSTS (coefficient of determination [R2] = 0.191) and 19.5% of the TUG variability (R2 = 0.195). With regard to functional disability (HAQ), the associated factors were comorbidity (FCI) and disease activity (DAS-28/ESR), which together explained 32.9% of the variability of the HAQ score (adjusted R2 = 0.329). Conclusion: Comorbidities were associated with mobility limitation and functional disability in RA patients. The FCI proved to be an appropriate comorbidity indicator to determine this association.

Leptina e adiponectina no lúpus eritematoso sistêmico: correlações clínicas e laboratoriais / Leptin and adiponectin in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: clinical and laboratory correlations

Objetivo: Avaliar os níveis séricos de leptina e adiponectina em pacientes com lúpus eritematoso sistêmico (LES) e correlacionar seus níveis com atividade inflamatória, presença de autoanticorpos e manifestações clínicas. Métodos: Foram avaliadas 52 mulheres com LES e 33 mulheres saudáveis. As pacientes foram divididas em dois grupos, o primeiro com LES ativo e o segundo com LES inativo. Foram consideradas em atividade as paciente com Sledai ≥ 3. Os níveis séricos de leptina (ng/mL) e adiponectina (ug/mL) foram medidos por ensaio imunoenzimático. Resultados: Houve diferença significativa nos níveis de leptina entre LES e controle (20,7 ± 17,1 vs. 8,0 ± 5,0 ng/mL, p < 0,001), mas não houve diferença significativa nos níveis de adiponectina (87,5 ± 69,7 vs. 118,1 ± 70,6 ug/mL, p = 0,053). Entre LES inativo e ativo, não houve diferença significativa dos níveis de leptina e adiponectina. Houve uma associação significativa entre os baixos níveis de leptina e positividade para anticardiolipina (aCL) (p = 0,025) eanticoagulante lúpico (LA) (p = 0,003) e uma associação significativa entre níveis elevados deleptina e da presença de manifestação renal (p < 0,001). No entanto, não houve associaçãoentre adiponectina com autoanticorpos e características clínicas nas pacientes. Conclusão: Pacientes com LES apresentaram nível elevado de leptina, com associação aoenvolvimento renal. A leptina e a adiponectina não se correlacionaram com a atividade dadoença. Baixos níveis de leptina foram associados com a presença de LA e aCL. .

Objective: To evaluate the serum levels of leptin and adiponectin in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and correlate their levels with disease activity, presence of autoantibodies and clinical manifestations. Methods 52 women with SLE and 33 healthy women were evaluated. The patients were divided into two groups, the first with active SLE and the second with inactive SLE. Patients with SLEDAI ≥3 were considered active. Serum levels of leptin (ng/mL) and adiponectin (µg/mL) were measured by enzyme immunoassay. Results: There was a significant difference in leptin levels between SLE and controls (20.7 ± 17.1 vs. 8.0 ± 5.0 ng/mL, p < 0.001), but no significant difference in adiponectin levels (87 5 ± 69.7 vs. 118.1 ± 70.6 pg/mL, p = 0.053). No significant difference in levels of leptin and adiponectin was noted between inactive and active SLE groups. There was a significant association between low levels of leptin and positivity for anticardiolipin (aCL) (p = 0.025)and lupus anticoagulant (LA) (p = 0.003) and a significant association between high levelsof leptin and the presence of renal disease (p < 0.001). However, there was no association between adiponectin levels with autoantibodies and clinical features in SLE patients. Conclusion: Patients with SLE had elevated leptin levels, with association with renal involvement. Leptin and adiponectin were not correlated with disease activity. Low levels of leptin have been associated with the presence of LA and aCL. .

Menstrual disturbances in systemic lupus erythematosus patients using immunossuppressants.

INTRODUCTION: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease that affects fertile-age women and of which treatment includes immunosuppressive agents that can affect the gonads. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the frequency of menstrual alterations in lupus patient treated with immunosuppressive agents (ISA). PATIENTS AND METHODS: A total of 87 patients, aged < 40 years, were studied. The patients were followed by outpatient management and the treatment used was verified. Only organic causes of menstrual alterations were excluded from the study. The menstrual alterations were correlated with the type and time of use of different ISA. RESULTS: Age varied from 14 to 38 years, with a mean age of 28.01 ± 5.81 years; the mean age at menarche was 13.12 ± 1.77 years and the diagnosis of SLE was at 21.40 ± 5.75 years. Corticoids were used as single therapy by 63.2% of them, for a mean time of 6.11 ± 5.14 years and the use of other immunosuppressive agents occurred with a mean time of 5.60 ± 3.59 years. Menstrual alterations occurred in 37.9% and amenorrhea in 11.5%. There was an association between menstrual alterations with the use of ISA (P = 0.034). CONCLUSION: The frequency of menstrual alterations was higher than that found in the general population, similar to what was observed in other publications on lupus treatment. The higher frequency of menstrual alterations in these patients was significantly associated with the use of ISA. The results justify caution when prescribing these medications,research indication and the use of techniques for ovarian preservation means.

Segurança do uso de terapias biológicas para o tratamento de artrite reumatoide e espondiloartrites / Safe use of biological therapies for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and spondyloarthritides

O tratamento das doenças reumáticas autoimunes sofreu uma progressiva melhora ao longo da última metade do século passado, que foi expandida com a contribuição das terapias biológicas ou imunobiológicos. No entanto, há que se atentar para as possibilidades de efeitos indesejáveis advindos da utilização dessa classe de medicações. A Sociedade Brasileira de Reumatologia (SBR) elaborou um documento, baseado em ampla revisão da literatura, sobre os aspectos relativos à segurança dessa classe de fármacos, mais especificamente no que diz respeito ao tratamento da artrite reumatoide (AR) e das espondiloartrites. Os temas selecionados pelos especialistas participantes, sobre os quais foram estabelecidas considerações quanto à segurança do uso de drogas biológicas, foram: ocorrência de infecções (bacterianas, virais, tuberculose), reações infusionais, reações hematológicas, neurológicas, gastrointestinais, cardiovasculares, ocorrências neoplásicas (neoplasias sólidas e da linhagem hematológica), imunogenicidade, outras ocorrências e reposta vacinal. Optou-se, por motivos didáticos, por se fazer um resumo da avaliação de segurança, de acordo com os tópicos anteriores, por classe de drogas/mecanismo de ação (antagonistas do fator de necrose tumoral, bloqueador da co-estimulação do linfócito T, depletor de linfócito B e bloqueador do receptor de interleucina-6). Em separado, foram tecidas considerações gerais sobre segurança do uso de biológicos na gravidez e na lactação. Esta revisão procura oferecer uma atualização ampla e equilibrada das experiências clínica e experimental acumuladas nas últimas duas décadas de uso de medicamentos imunobiológicos para o tratamento da AR e espondiloartrites.

The treatment of autoimmune rheumatic diseases has gradually improved over the last half century, which has been expanded with the contribution of biological therapies or immunobiopharmaceuticals. However, we must be alert to the possibilities of undesirable effects from the use of this class of medications. The Brazilian Society of Rheumatology (Sociedade Brasileira de Reumatologia) produced a document based on a comprehensive literature review on the safety aspects of this class of drugs, specifically with regard to the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and spondyloarthritides. The themes selected by the participating experts, on which considerations have been established as the safe use of biological drugs, were: occurrence of infections (bacterial, viral, tuberculosis), infusion reactions, hematological, neurological, gastrointestinal and cardiovascular reactions, neoplastic events (solid tumors and hematologic neoplasms), immunogenicity, other occurrences and vaccine response. For didactic reasons, we opted by elaborating a summary of safety assessment in accordance with the previous themes, by drug class/mechanism of action (tumor necrosis factor antagonists, T-cell co-stimulation blockers, B-cell depletors and interleukin-6 receptor blockers). Separately, general considerations on safety in the use of biologicals in pregnancy and lactation were proposed. This review seeks to provide a broad and balanced update of that clinical and experimental experience pooled over the last two decades of use of immunobiological drugs for RA and spondyloarthritides treatment.

Frequencia de anticorpos antiparvovirus B19 em artrite reumatoide e lupus eritematoso sistemico / Frequency of antiparvovirus B19 antibodies in rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus

Objetivo: Determinar a frequência de anticorpos antiparvovírus B19 (B19) em pacientes com artrite reumatoide (AR) e lúpus eritematoso sistêmico (LES), e a possível correlação da soropositividade anti-B19 com a atividade das doenças e a qualidade de vida. Pacientes e métodos: Foram utilizadas amostras séricas de 57 pacientes com AR, 45 com LES e 65 controles sadios. Empregou-se protocolo com dados clínicos, os índices Disease Activity Score 28 (DAS 28), Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI) e Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ). Realizou-se a sorologia anti-B19 por ensaio imunoenzimático (ELISA). Resultados: A média de idade dos pacientes foi de 42,74 14,09 anos, e a dos controles foi de 38,38 13,42 anos.Tinham doença ativa 79 (77,5%) pacientes, e doença inativa 23 (22,5%).Anti-B19 (IgG) foi reagente em 49 (86,0%) IC 95% (77,0 - 95,0)% pacientes com AR, em 38 (84,4%) IC 95% (73,9 - 95,0)% com LES e em 40 (61,5%) IC 95% (49,7 - 73,4)% controles (p = 0,002). Anti-B19 (IgM) foi reagente em 3 (5,3%) IC 95% (0,0 - 11,1)% pacientes com AR, em 7 (15,6%) IC 95% (5,0 - 26,2)% pacientes com LES e em 1 (1,5%) IC 95% (0,0 - 4,5)% controle (p = 0,011). Não houve correlação da reatividade anti-B19 com a atividade das doenças, os índices DAS 28, SLEDAI e HAQ. Conclusão: O presente estudo demonstrou que a população avaliada está exposta à infecção pelo B19, o que demanda atenção com suas manifestações, principalmente entre os pacientes que apresentam maior risco, como os imunossuprimidos. .

Objective: To determine the frequency of antiparvovírus B19 (B19) antibodies in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and the possible correlation of anti-B19 seropositivity with disease activity and quality of life. Patients and methods: Serum samples from 57 patients with RA, 45 with SLE and 65 healthy controls were used. We applied protocol with clinical data, and the Disease Activity Score 28 (DAS 28), Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI) and Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ) indexes. The anti-B19 serology was done by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Results: The mean age of patients was 42.74 ± 14.09 years, and of controls was 38.38 ± 13.42 years. 79 patients had active disease (77.5%), and 23 had inactive disease (22.5%). Anti-B19 (IgG) was positive in 49 (86.0%; CI 95% 77.0 - 95.0) RA patients, 38 (84.4%; CI 95% 73.9 - 95.0) SLE patients, and 40 (61.5%; CI 95% 49.7 - 73.4) controls (p = 0.002). Anti-B19 (IgM) was positive in 3 (5.3%; CI 95% 0.0 - 11.1) RA patients, in 7 (15.6%; CI 95% 5.0 - 26,2) SLE patients, and in 1 (1.5%; CI 95% 0.0 - 4.5) control (p = 0.011).There was no correlation of anti-B19 reactivity with disease activity and with DAS 28, HAQ and SLEDAI indexes. Conclusion: This study demonstrated that the studied population is exposed to infection by B19, which demands attention with its manifestations, especially among patients at greatest risk, such as those immunosuppressed. .