Tasas de promoción, repitencia y abandono en la Carrera de Especialistas en Reumatología en la Ciudad de Buenos Aires / Specialty training in rheumatology: Promotion, repetition and dropout rates in the city of Buenos Aires

Objetivos: Evaluar la trayectoria de los alumnos de la Carrera de Especialistas en Reumatología y determinar factores asociados al resultado en el posgrado. Métodos: Análisis retrospectivo (2009-2016). Se determinaron las tasas de promoción, la repitencia y el abandono. Se realizaron análisis multivariados para determinar variables asociadas al éxito académico. Resultados: Sobre 119 alumnos, la promoción efectiva fue del 66,4%, la repitencia sin retraso fue del 14,3%, la repitencia con retraso fue del 11,8% y el abandono fue del 7,6%. La promoción efectiva de la residencia fue del 82,5% vs el 48,2% en el resto (p<0,001), la repitencia con retraso fue del 3,2% vs el 21,4% en el resto (p=0,005) y el abandono fue del 3,2% vs el 12,5% en el resto (p=0,06). El éxito en el posgrado fue mayor a mejor promedio en la carrera de Medicina (OR: 3,41; IC95%: 2,0-6,4; p<0,001). Conclusiones: La residencia se asoció a mayor éxito académico en el posgrado. El puntaje promedio en la cursada de Medicina puede ayudar a identificar a los alumnos en riesgo de fallar.(AU)

Objectives: To evaluate the trajectory of students enrolled in the specialty training in rheumatology. Methods: Retrospective analysis (2009-2016). Promotion, repetition, and dropout rates were determined. Analysis was performed to define variables associated with academic success. Results: Out of 119 students, the actual promotion rate was 66.4%, 11.8% failed an exam (at least) and completed the course after the stipulated time, and the dropout rate was 7.6%. Among residents, the promotion rate was 82.5% vs. 48.2% among the rest (P<.001), the lagging students’ repetition rate was 3.2% vs. 21.4% among the rest (P=.005), and the dropout rate was 3.2% vs. 12.5% among the rest (P=.06). A higher average score in medical school increased the chances of success in the postgraduate programme (OR: 3.41; 95%CI: 2.0-6.4; P<.001). Conclusions: The residency was associated with higher rates of academic success in postgraduate studies. The average score in medical school can help identify students at risk of failure.(AU)

Speciality training in rheumatology: Promotion, repetition and dropout rates in the city of Buenos Aires.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the trajectory of students enrolled in the specialty training in rheumatology. METHODS: Retrospective analysis (2009-2016). Promotion, repetition, and dropout rates were determined. Analysis was performed to define variables associated with academic success. RESULTS: Out of 119 students, the actual promotion rate was 66.4%, 11.8% failed an exam (at least) and completed the course after the stipulated time, and the dropout rate was 7.6%. Among residents, the promotion rate was 82.5% vs. 48.2% among the rest (p < 0.001), the lagging students' repetition rate was 3.2% vs. 21.4% among the rest (p 0.005), and the dropout rate was 3.2% vs. 12.5% among the rest (p = 0.06). A higher average score in medical school increased the chances of success in the postgraduate programme (OR 3.41 CI 95% 2.0-6.4; p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The residency was associated with higher rates of academic success in postgraduate studies. The average score in medical school can help identify students at risk of failure.

Validación del ClinESSDAI para Argentina / Validation of ClinESSDAI for Argentina

Introducción: recientemente, en Europa y en idioma inglés, se ha desarrollado el Clinical EULAR Sjögren's Syndrome Disease Activity Index (ClinESSDAI) para evaluar la actividad en pacientes con síndrome de Sjögren primario (SSp). Objetivos: validar el ClinESSDAI en pacientes con SSp en Argentina. Materiales y métodos: estudio de corte transversal. Se utilizó la versión en castellano del EULAR Sjögren's Syndrome Disease Activity Index (ESSDAI) validada en Argentina. Para evaluar la validez del constructo, se usó la escala visual análoga (EVA) desarrollada por un reumatólogo experto por dominio del ClinESSDAI y de la EVA global para el puntaje total del ClinESSDAI, mientras que otro profesional en la materia realizó el ESSDAI y ClinESSDAI. Para analizar la reproducibilidad, se estudió a un subgrupo de pacientes, sin mediar cambios en el tratamiento ni en la condición clínica, 10 días después de la evaluación basal. Todos los médicos examinaron a los pacientes desconociendo la evaluación de los demás colegas. Resultados: se incluyeron 47 pacientes con SSp. La correlación entre la EVA global y el ClinESSDAI fue muy buena (Rho 0,7), así como la correlación de la EVA y el ClinESSDAI de cada dominio. El coeficiente de correlación intraclase (CCI) entre el ESSDAI y el ClinESSDAI fue de 0,98. La reproducibilidad fue de 0,93. Conclusiones: el ClinESSDAI es una herramienta válida y reproducible en nuestra población, equiparable al ESSDAI.

Introduction: the Clinical EULAR Sjögren's Syndrome Disease Activity Index (ClinESSDAI) has recently been developed in Europe and in the English language to evaluate activity in patients with primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS). Objectives: validate the ClinESSDAI in patients pSS in Argentina. Materials and methods: a cross-sectional study. The Spanish version of the ESSDAI, validated in Argentina, was used. To evaluate construct validity, the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) was used, performed by an expert rheumatologist per ClinESSDAI domain, and the global VAS was used for the total score of the ClinESSDAI, while another professional performed the ESSDAI and ClinESSDAI. To evaluate reproducibility, a subgroup of patients was evaluated without changes in treatment or clinical condition 10 days after the baseline evaluation. All physicians were blind to each other's evaluation. Results: 47 patients with pSS were included. The correlation between global VAS and ClinESSDAI was very good (Rho 0.7), as well as the correlation of the VAS and ClinESSDAI of each domain. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) between ESSDAI and ClinESSDAI was 0.98. The reproducibility was 0.93. Conclusions: the ClinESSDAI is a valid and reproducible tool in our population, comparable to the ESSDAI.

Active lupus in Argentina: Results of a multicenter and national registry.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the association between patients' characteristics and disease activity in an Argentine lupus registry. METHODS: Cross-sectional study. Disease activity was stratified into: Remission off-treatment: SLEDAI = 0, without prednisone and immunosuppressive drugs. Low disease activity Toronto Cohort (LDA-TC): SLEDAI ≤2, without prednisone or immunosuppressive drugs. Modified lupus low disease activity (mLLDAS): SLEDAI score of ≤4, with no activity in major organ systems and no new features, prednisone of ≤10 mg/day and/or immunosuppressive drugs (maintenance dose) and Active disease: SLEDAI score of >4 and prednisone >10 mg/day and immunosuppressive drugs. A descriptive analysis and logistic regression model were performed. RESULTS: A total of 1346 patients were included. Of them, 1.6% achieved remission off steroids, 0.8% LDA-TC, 12.1% mLLDAS and the remaining 85.4% had active disease. Active disease was associated with younger age (p ≤ 0.001), a shorter time to diagnosis (p ≤ 0.001), higher frequency of hospitalizations (p ≤ 0.001), seizures (p = 0.022), serosal disease (p ≤ 0.001), nephritis (p ≤ 0.001), higher SDI (p ≤ 0.001), greater use of immunosuppressive therapies and higher doses of prednisone compared to those on mLLDAS. In the multivariable analysis, the variables associated with active disease were the presence of pleuritis (OR 2.1, 95% CI 1.2-3.9; p = 0.007), persistent proteinuria (OR 2.5, 95% CI 1.2-5.5; p ≤ 0.011), nephritis (OR 2.5, 95% CI 1.2-5.6; p = .018) and hospitalizations (OR 8.9, 95% CI 5.3-16.0; p ≤ 0.001) whereas age at entry into the registry was negatively associated with it (OR 0.9, 95% CI 0.9-1.0; p = 0.029). CONCLUSION: Active disease was associated with shorter time to diagnosis, worse outcomes (SDI and hospitalizations) and renal, neurological and serosal disease.

Frecuencia de eventos cardiovasculares en pacientes con lupus eritematoso sistémico / Frequency of cardiovascular events in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus

Resumen Introducción: el progreso en los tratamientos para el lupus eritematoso sistémico (LES) resultó en una disminución de la mortalidad; sin embargo, la enfermedad cardiovascular y las complicaciones infecciosas aún son las principales causas de muerte. La evidencia apoya la participación del sistema inmunológico en la generación de la placa aterosclerótica, así como su conexión con las enfermedades autoinmunes. Objetivos: describir la frecuencia de eventos cardiovasculares (ECV) en el Registro de Lupus Eritematoso Sistémico de la Sociedad Argentina de Reumatología (RELESSAR) transversal, así como sus principales factores de riesgo asociados. Materiales y métodos: estudio descriptivo y transversal para el cual se tomaron los pacientes ingresados en el registro RELESSAR transversal. Se describieron las variables sociodemográficas y clínicas, las comorbilidades, score de actividad y daño. ECV se definió como la presencia de al menos una de las siguientes patologías: enfermedad arterial periférica, cardiopatía isquémica o accidente cerebrovascular. El evento clasificado para el análisis fue aquel posterior al diagnóstico del LES. Se conformaron dos grupos macheados por edad y sexo 1:2. Resultados: 1515 pacientes mayores de 18 años participaron del registro. Se describieron 80 pacientes con ECV (5,3%). En este análisis se incluyeron 240 pacientes conformando dos grupos. La edad media fue de 47,8 (14,4) y 47,6 (14,2) en el grupo con y sin ECV respectivamente. Los pacientes con ECV tuvieron mayor duración del LES en meses, mayor índice de Charlson, mayor SLICC (Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics/American College of Rheumatology), mayor frecuencia de manifestaciones neurológicas, síndrome antifosfolípido, hospitalizaciones y uso de ciclofosfamida. Las únicas variables asociadas en el análisis multivariado fueron el índice de Charlson (p=0,004) y el SLICC (p<0,001). Conclusiones: los ECV influyen significativamente en nuestros pacientes, y se asocian a mayor posibilidad de daño irreversible y comorbilidades.

Abstract Introduction: progress in treatments for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) has resulted in a decrease in mortality; however, cardiovascular and infectious diseases remain the leading causes of death. Evidence supports the involvement of the immune system in the generation of atherosclerotic plaque, as well as its connection to autoimmune diseases. Objectives: to describe the frequency of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in the cross-sectional RELESSAR registry, as well as its associated variables. Materials and methods: a descriptive and cross-sectional study was performed using patients admitted to the cross-sectional RELESSAR registry. Sociodemographic variables, clinical variables, comorbidities, activity and damage scores were described. CVD was defined as at least one of the following: peripheral arterial disease, ischemic heart disease, or cerebrovascular accident. All patients with at least one CVD were included in our analysis (heart attack, central nervous system vascular disease, and peripheral arteries atherosclerotic disease). The event classified for the analysis was that after the diagnosis of SLE. SLE diagnosis was previous to CVD. Two groups matched by age and sex, 1:2 were formed. Results: a total of 1515 patients older than 18 years participated in the registry. Eighty patients with CVD (5.3%) were described in the registry. Two-hundred and forty patients were included, according to two groups. The mean age was 47.8 (SD 14.4) and 47.6 (SD 14.2) in patients with and without CVD, respectively. Patients with CVD had a longer duration of SLE in months, a higher Charlson index, a higher SLICC, increased frequency of neurological manifestations, antiphospholipid syndrome, hospitalizations, and use of cyclophosphamide. The associated variables in the multivariate were the Charlson Index (p=0.004) and the SLICC (p<0.001). Conclusions: CVDs have a significant influence on our patients, being associated with a greater possibility of damage and comorbidities.

Rheumatoid arthritis monotherapy in the Jak inhibitors Era. Current prevalence and associated factors in a multicenter study.

BACKGROUND: Combined therapy constitutes the standard of care in RA. Jak inhibitors (Jaki) have shown efficacy in monotherapy, a modality used in cases where it is not possible to use Disease-Modifying Anti Rheumatic Drugs (csDMARDs). OBJECTIVES: To estimate the prevalence (total and by drug), reason for using and the increase over the time of bDMARDs or tsDMARDs as monotherapy after the availability of the Jaki. To analyze the differential characteristics between patients with monotherapy vs combined therapy. METHODS: Cross-sectional multicenter study. Consecutive patients with a diagnosis of RA (ACR/EULAR 2010) under treatment with bDMARDs or tsDMARDs started from 2013 were included. Socio-demographic, clinic, and therapeutic data were collected. RESULTS: A total of 505 RA patients were included. Since 2013, the prevalence of monotherapy usage was (any) 49%. The drugs used as monotherapy were Jaki in 41% and TNF-blockers in 30%. The leading causes of monotherapy use were intolerance/adverse events (62%), medical decision or lack of adherence (37.7%). The highest socioeconomic level and a better functional status at diagnosis were predictors of monotherapy use. The use of the second line of treatments and less polypharmacy were independent factors associated with this therapeutic modality. CONCLUSIONS: The current prevalence of monotherapy in RA was 49%, the Jaki were the most used drug in this modality. Monotherapy increases from year to year. There are differential characteristics in patients using monotherapy.

Seguridad de las drogas biológicas y sintéticas dirigidas utilizadas en pacientes con enfermedades reumáticas inmunomediadas. Datos del registro BIOBADASAR 3.0 / Safety of biological and targeted synthetic drugs in patients with immune-mediated rheumatic diseases. Data from the BIOBADASAR 3.0 registry

Introducción: conocer la seguridad de las drogas actualmente disponibles para el tratamiento de las enfermedades reumáticas es muy importante al momento de tomar decisiones terapéuticas objetivas e individualizadas en la consulta médica diaria. Asimismo, datos de la vida real amplían el conocimiento revelado por los ensayos clínicos. Objetivos: describir los eventos adversos (EA) reportados, estimar su frecuencia e identificar los factores relacionados con su desarrollo. Materiales y métodos: se utilizaron datos BIOBADASAR, un registro voluntario y prospectivo de seguimiento de EA de tratamientos biológicos y sintéticos dirigidos en pacientes con enfermedades reumáticas inmunomediadas. Los pacientes son seguidos hasta la muerte, pérdida de seguimiento o retiro del consentimiento informado. Para este análisis se extrajeron datos recopilados hasta el 31 de enero de 2023. Resultados: se incluyó un total de 6253 pacientes, los cuales aportaron 9533 ciclos de tratamiento, incluyendo 3647 (38,3%) ciclos sin drogas modificadoras de la enfermedad biológicas y sintéticas dirigidas (DME-b/sd) y 5886 (61,7%) con DME-b/sd. Dentro de estos últimos, los más utilizados fueron los inhibidores de TNF y abatacept. Se reportaron 5890 EA en un total de 2701 tratamientos (844 y 1857 sin y con DME-b/sd, respectivamente), con una incidencia de 53,9 eventos cada 1000 pacientes/año (IC 95% 51,9-55,9). La misma fue mayor en los ciclos con DME-b/sd (71,1 eventos cada 1000 pacientes/año, IC 95% 70,7-77,5 versus 33,7, IC 95% 31,5-36,1; p<0,001). Las infecciones, particularmente las de la vía aérea superior, fueron los EA más frecuentes en ambos grupos. El 10,9% fue serio y el 1,1% provocó la muerte del paciente. El 18,7% de los ciclos con DME-b/sd fue discontinuado a causa de un EA significativamente mayor a lo reportado en el otro grupo (11,5%; p<0,001). En el análisis ajustado, las DME-b/sd se asociaron a mayor riesgo de presentar al menos un EA (HR 1,82, IC 95% 1,64-1,96). De igual manera, la mayor edad, el mayor tiempo de evolución, el antecedente de enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica, el diagnóstico de lupus eritematoso sistémico y el uso de corticoides se asociaron a mayor riesgo de EA. Conclusiones: la incidencia de EA fue significativamente superior durante los ciclos de tratamientos que incluían DME-b/sd.

Introduction: knowing the efficacy and safety of the drugs currently available for the treatment of rheumatic diseases is very important when making objective and individualized therapeutic decisions in daily medical consultation. Likewise, real-life data extends the knowledge revealed by clinical trials. Objectives: to describe the reported adverse events (AEs), estimate their frequency and identify factors associated to them. Materials and methods: BIOBADASAR data were used, which is a voluntary, prospective follow-up registry of AEs of biological and synthetic treatments in patients with immune-mediated rheumatic diseases. Patients are followed until death, loss of followup, or withdrawal of informed consent. To carry out this analysis, the data collected up to January 31, 2023 was extracted. Results: a total of 6253 patients were included, who contributed with 9533 treatment periods, including 3647 (38.3%) periods without b/ts-DMARDs and 5886 (61.7%) with b/ts-DMARDs. Among the latter, the most used were TNF inhibitors and abatacept. A total of 5890 AEs were reported in a total of 2701 treatments (844 and 1857 without and with b/ts-DMARDs, respectively), with an incidence of 53.9 events per 1000 patients/ year (95% CI 51.9-55.9). It was higher during the periods with b/ts-DMARDs (71.1 events per 1000 patients/year, 95% CI 70.7-77.5 vs 33.7, 95% CI 31.5-36.1, p<0.001). Infections, particularly those of the upper respiratory tract, were the most frequent AEs in both groups. 10.9% were severe and 1.1% were associated with the death of the patient. 18.7% of the periods with b/ts-DMARDs were discontinued due to an AE, significantly higher than that reported in the other group (11.5%; p<0.001). In the adjusted analysis, b/ts-DMARDs were associated with a higher risk of presenting at least one AE (HR 1.82, 95% CI 1.64-1.96). Similarly, older age, longer evolution time, history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus, and use of corticosteroids were associated with a higher risk of AE. Conclusions: the incidence of AEs was significantly higher during those treatment periods that included DME-b/sd.

Reumatólogos frente al papeleo: evaluación de la carga administrativa en un Servicio de Reumatología / Rheumatologists versus paperwork: assessment of administrative burden in a Rheumatology Service

Introducción: los resúmenes de historia clínica (RHC), confeccionados por reumatólogos, los solicitan los pacientes para realizar diversos trámites. Su incumplimiento afecta el acceso a las prestaciones sanitarias e implica que los médicos destinen tiempo a un requisito puramente burocrático. Los objetivos de este estudio fueron: determinar la frecuencia de RHC solicitados y realizados en nuestro Servicio durante un semestre y el tiempo dedicado a dicha tarea; describir los motivos de las solicitudes y las características de los solicitantes. Materiales y métodos: se incluyeron todos los pacientes que solicitaron ≥1 RHC en el último semestre de 2019. Se registraron características sociodemográficas, enfermedad de base y motivos de solicitud. Se consideró, como parámetro de comparación, una duración predeterminada de 15 minutos por consulta médica. Resultados: se registraron 103 solicitantes de RHC en 3159 citas programadas en 152 días. Se realizaron 144 RHC (0,95/día). Un 18% solicitó uno nuevo en el mismo intervalo. El tiempo promedio para la confección de cada resumen fue de 75 minutos. El tiempo total dedicado a estas tareas administrativas en el semestre evaluado fue el equivalente a 720 citas potenciales, aproximadamente un 20% de los turnos programados ofrecidos. La mayoría se emitió para solicitar medicamentos crónicos, principalmente para artritis reumatoidea, y con cobertura médica pública. Conclusiones: el tiempo destinado a confeccionar RHC por motivos administrativos fue el equivalente a un aumento potencial de más del 20% de las citas médicas.

Introduction: medical history summaries (MHS) issued by rheumatologists are requested by patients for various procedures. Not completing them denies access to health benefits, this implies that physicians spend time on a purely bureaucratic requirement. The objectives were: to determine the frequency of MHS requested and issued in our service during a semester and the time dedicated to them; to describe the reasons for the request and the characteristics of the applicants. Materials and methods: all patients who request ≥1 MHS in the last semester of 2019 were included. Sociodemographic characteristics, underlying disease and reasons for request were recorded. As a comparison measure, a predetermined duration of 15 minutes per medical appointment was expected. Results: 103 MHS applicants in 3159 scheduled appointments in 152 days. 144 MHS were performed (0.95/day). 18% requested a new one in the same interval. The average time in the preparation of a MHS was 75 minutes. The total time spent on these during the evaluated semester was equivalent to 720 potential appointments, approximately 20% of scheduled appointments that were granted. Most were issued to request chronic medications, mainly in rheumatoid arthritis and public health care. Conclusions: the time spent to prepare MHS for administrative reasons was comparable to a potential increase of more than 20% in medical appointments.

Impacto de la pandemia por SARS-CoV-2 en la formación de los alumnos de la Carrera de Médico Especialista en Reumatología / Impact of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic on a group of Rheumatology trainees of Argentina

Introducción: en 2020, la rápida evolución de la pandemia por SARS-CoV-2 desencadenó una emergencia sanitaria que generó una importante reorganización del sistema de salud, lo que llevó a la discontinuación y posterior adecuación de los sistemas de formación. El objetivo de este estudio fue describir el impacto de la pandemia en un grupo de reumatólogos en formación en la Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires. Materiales y métodos: se envió una encuesta online por correo electrónico a los alumnos de la Carrera de Especialista en Reumatología de la Sociedad Argentina de Reumatología y de la Universidad de Buenos Aires. Incluyó 24 preguntas relacionadas con el impacto de la pandemia en diferentes aspectos de la formación y las nuevas estrategias educativas implementadas. Resultados: de 114 alumnos contactados, respondieron 79 (69,3%). Aproximadamente el 90% indicó que su formación se afectó. Un 46% consideró que la práctica médica y la actividad académica se comprometieron por igual y el 45% solo la práctica médica. Un 50% realizó tareas no relacionadas con su formación. El 57% suspendió temporalmente la asistencia a su centro. También informaron una reducción del 55% (DE 18,6) de las actividades relacionadas con la consulta. Conclusiones: la pandemia por SARS-CoV-2 afectó a los estudiantes de Reumatología al limitar sus actividades prácticas y académicas, y por deber realizar tareas ajenas a su formación en más de la mitad de los casos.

Introduction: in 2020, the rapid evolution of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic triggered a health emergency, generating an important heath system reorganization which led to the discontinuation and subsequent adaptation of training systems. The objective was to describe the pandemic impact on a group of rheumatology trainees in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Materials and methods: an online survey was sent through e-mail to rheumatology specialist course trainees of Argentine Society of Rheumatology and University of Buenos Aires. It included 24 close-ended questions about the pandemic impact on different aspects of rheumatology training and the new implemented educational response strategies. Results: from 114 trainees contacted, 79 (69.3%) responded. Approximately 90% indicated that their rheumatology training was affected. Forty-six percent thought that medical practice and academic activity were equally affected and 45% that only medical practice was compromised. About 50% reported that they had to perform tasks unrelated to their training. Fifty-seven percent discontinued temporarily the training site attendance. Participants reported a mean reduction of 55% (SD 18.6) of activities related to patient care. Conclusions: the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic affected rheumatology trainees, by limiting their practical and academics activities, and having to perform tasks unrelated to their training in more than a half.

Primary Sjögren syndrome and development of another autoimmune rheumatic disease during the follow-up.

BACKGROUND: Primary Sjögren syndrome (pSS) is a chronic autoimmune disease with its main target being exocrine glands, and is the connective tissue disease more frequently associated with other autoimmune diseases. The aim of this study was to assess the frequency of another autoimmune rheumatic disease (ARD) developed in primary Sjögren syndrome (pSS) patients and to describe it's clinical, serological and histologic characteristics. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This is a retrospective cohort study. Data of patients with pSS diagnosis (American-European criteria 2002), included in the GESSAR database (Grupo de Estudio Síndrome de Sjögren, Sociedad Argentina de Reumatología) were analyzed. The development of a second ARD was registered during the follow up. RESULTS: 681 patients were included, 94.8% female. The mean age was 54 (SD 14) years and mean age at diagnosis of 50 (SD 13) years. The mean follow-up was 4.7 (SD 4.9) years; 30 patients (4.41%, CI 95%: 3.1-5.7) developed a second ARD during the follow up, incidence rate was 9.1/1000 patients-year (IR 95%: 5.8-12.4/1000 patients-year), the most frequent being rheumatoid arthritis (RA). 96% out of these 30 patients had xerophthalmia, 86.2% xerostomia, 92% positive Schirmer test, 88.24% positive Rosa Bengala test, lisamine green or Ocular Staining Score, 81.2% positive unstimulated salivary flow, 82.1% Ro(+) and 33.33% La(+). Minor salivary gland biopsy had been performed in 14 of the 30 patients, 12 with positive results. There were no statistically significant differences respect baseline characteristics when comparing the patients who developed another ARD to the ones that did not. CONCLUSIONS: Of all the patients analyzed, 4.4% presented another ARD during their follow-up. It is important to be aware of this, to make an early and proper diagnosis and treatment of our patients.

Tenosinovitis en artritis reumatoidea, evaluación por ultrasonido y resonancia magnética / Tenosynovitis in rheumatoid arthritis, ultrasound and magnetic resonance evaluation

La tenosinovitis es una manifestación frecuente de la artritis reumatoidea (AR), asociada a la presencia de rupturas tendinosas, discapacidad funcional y procesos erosivos de las articulaciones adyacentes. En los últimos años el manejo clínico de la AR ha sido respaldado por diferentes métodos de evaluación por imágenes, como la ultrasonografía (US) y la resonancia magnética (RM). Estas son herramientas de gran utilidad en la práctica clínica porque permiten la detección precoz de la actividad de la enfermedad y, por lo tanto, un tratamiento oportuno. Por medio de diferentes escalas de evaluación del daño articular y periarticular (como el tendinoso) es posible valorar el estado de la enfermedad y la respuesta al tratamiento. La presente revisión tiene como objetivo describir las escalas de evaluación de la RM y la US en la valoración de la tenosinovitis en pacientes con AR.

Tenosynovitis is a frequent manifestation of Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), it is associated with tendon ruptures, functional disability, and erosive processes in the adjacent joints. In recent years, RA clinical management has been supported by different imaging methods such as ultrasound (US) and magnetic resonance (MR). These methods are particularly useful tools in clinical practice because they allow the early detection of disease activity and, therefore, prompt treatment. Through different evaluation scales of joint and periarticular damage (such as tendon) they also make possible to assess the state of the disease and the treatment response. The present review aims to describe the scores described for MRI and US to evaluate tenosynovitis in RA patients.

Multicenter lupus register from Argentina, the RELESSAR database: Influence of ethnicity on disease phenotype.

OBJECTIVE: The objective is to describe the main characteristics of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in Argentina and to examine the influence of ethnicity on the expression of the disease. PATIENTS AND METHODS: RELESSAR is a multicentre register carried out by 106 researchers from 67 rheumatologic Argentine centres. It is a cross-sectional study of SLE (1982/1997 ACR) patients. RELESSAR electronic database includes demographic, cumulative SLE manifestations, SELENA-SLEDAI, SLICC-SDI, Katz's severity and Charlson's comorbidity indexes and treatment patterns. RESULTS: We included 1,610 patients, 91.7% were female with a median age at diagnosis of 28.1 ± 12.8; 96.2% met ≥4 ACR 1982/97 criteria. Frequent manifestations were arthritis (83.5%), malar rash (79.5%), photosensitivity (75.3%), haematological (63.8%) and renal disease (47.4%), antinuclear antibodies (96%), anti-dsDNA (66.5%) and anti-Smith antibodies (29%). The mean Selena-SLEDAI score at last visit was 3.18 (SD 4.3) and mean SDI was 1 (SD 1.3). The accumulated treatments most frequently used were antimalarials (90.4%), corticosteroids (90%), azathioprine (31.8%), intravenous cyclophosphamide (30.2%), mycophenolate mofetil or mycophenolic acid (24.5%), methotrexate (19.3%), belimumab 5.3% and rituximab 5.1%. Refractory lupus was diagnosed in 9.3% of the cases. The main causes of death were lupus activity (25.0%), activity and concomitant infections (25.0%), infections (18.2%), vascular disease (13.6%) and cancer (4.5%). Mortality was associated with higher SLEDAI, Katz, damage indexes and comorbidities. Of the 1610 patients included, 44.6% were Caucasian, 44.5% Mestizo, 8.1% Amerindian and 1.2% Afro-Latin American. Mestizo patients had higher male representation, low socioeconomic status, more inadequate medical coverage, fewer formal years of education and shorter disease duration. Polyadenopathies and Raynaud's phenomenon were more frequent in Caucasians. In the logistic regression analysis higher damage index (OR 1.28, CI 95% 1.02-1.61, p = 0.03) remained associated to mestizo ethnicity. CONCLUSIONS: This study represents the largest number of adult patients with SLE studied in Argentina. Caucasian patients were differentiated by having Raynaud's phenomenon and polyadenopathy more frequently, while patients of Mestizo origin had higher damage indexes.

Demora en el inicio del tratamiento biológico o sintético dirigido en pacientes con artritis reumatoidea y factores asociados a la misma / Delayed onset of biologic or targeted synthetic dmards in rheumatoid arthritis patients and associated factors

Introducción: el objetivo del tratamiento de la artritis reumatoidea (AR) es la remisión o baja actividad de la enfermedad. En aquellos pacientes que no logran dicho objetivo con drogas modificadoras de la enfermedad sintéticas convencionales (DMARsc), se indican los agentes biológicos (DMARb) o sintéticos dirigidos (DMARsd). El intervalo de tiempo entre la indicación y hasta que el paciente recibe la primera dosis es variable. Objetivos: describir el tiempo de demora y los motivos relacionados entre la indicación de DMARb o DMARsd y la administración de la primera dosis. Materiales y métodos: estudio observacional, analítico, retrospectivo. Se revisaron historias clínicas de pacientes con diagnóstico de AR, a quienes se les indicó DMARb o DMARsd. Se registraron datos sociodemográficos y características de la enfermedad. Respecto de la indicación de DMARb o DMARsd, se consignó: fecha de indicación, fecha en que el paciente recibió la primera dosis en forma efectiva y motivo de la demora. Resultados: se incluyeron 102 pacientes. La mediana de demora desde la indicación de la droga hasta que el paciente recibió la primera dosis fue de 240 días (RIC 113-504). El principal motivo de demora fue de índole burocrática (47%). Los pacientes con baja actividad de la enfermedad obtuvieron la medicación en menor tiempo (113 días) respecto de aquellos con actividad moderada (242 días) y alta actividad (332 días); p=0,01. Los pacientes en los cuales la demora fue por causas burocráticas, presentaron menor nivel de educación (60% vs 17% con educación superior) y residencia en la Provincia de Buenos Aires (58% vs 31% con residencia en la Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires), siendo estas asociaciones estadísticamente significativas. Conclusiones: la mediana en la demora para el inicio de DMARb o DMARsd fue de aproximadamente 8 meses. El motivo principal de este retraso fue de índole burocrática, evidenciándose la misma con mayor frecuencia en aquellos con menor nivel educativo y en los residentes en la Provincia de Buenos Aires.

Introduction: the goal of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) treatment is to obtain remission or low activity of the disease. In those patients who did not achieve this objective with conventional treatment, biologic or targeted synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (bDMARD or tsDMARD, respectively) are indicated. The period of time between the prescription of these medications and its administration is variable. Objectives: to describe the delay time between the prescription of a bDMARD or tsDMARD and the administration of the first dose, and its related reasons. Materials and methods: observational, analytical, retrospective study. Medical records of patients with a diagnosis of RA who were prescribed a bDMARD or tsDMARD were reviewed. Sociodemographic data and characteristics of the disease were recorded. Regarding the indication of bDMARDs or tsDMARs, the following data was collected: prescription date, date on which the patient received the first effective dose and reason for the delay. Results: 102 patients were included. The median delay time from the drug prescription until the patient received the first dose was 240 days (IQR 113-504). The main reason for delay was of bureaucratic nature (47%). Patients with low disease activity obtained the medication with a shorter delay (113 days) compared to those with moderate activity (242 days) and high activity (332 days); p=0.01. Patients with a delay related to bureaucratic causes, presented a lower level of education (60% vs 17% with higher education) and residence in the Province of Buenos Aires (58% vs 31% with residence in Autonomous City of Buenos Aires), and these differences were statistically significant. Conclusions: the median delay time to onset of bDMARDs or tsDMARDs was approximately 8 months. The main reason for this delay was of bureaucratic nature, being more frequent in those with lower educational level and residence in the Province of Buenos Aires.

Lupus en Argentina. Pacientes no respondedores al tratamiento estándar y belimumab como posible opción. Datos del registro RELESSAR / Lupus in Argentina. Non-responders to standard treatment and belimumab as a possible option. RELESSAR record data

Introducción: el lupus es una enfermedad compleja y varias veces de difícil abordaje. Alcanzar la remisión es uno de los objetivos, incorporando opciones terapéuticas. Objetivos: describir las características generales de los pacientes según el estado de la enfermedad y el uso de belimumab. Materiales y métodos: estudio de corte transversal, registro RELESSAR. Se definió el estado de la enfermedad como: remisión: SLEDAI=0 y sin corticoides; baja actividad de la enfermedad: SLEDAI >0 y ≤4 y sin corticoides; control no óptimo: SLEDAI >4 y cualquier dosis de corticoides. Resultados: se incluyeron 1.277 pacientes, 23,4% en remisión, 12,6% en baja actividad y 63,8% con control no óptimo. En este último grupo eran más jóvenes y con menor duración de la enfermedad; presentaban mayores índices de actividad y cronicidad, y mayor empleo de inmunosupresores. Solo el 22,3% de los pacientes con criterio potencial de uso de belimumab (lupus eritematoso sistémico activo a pesar del tratamiento estándar) lo recibía en ese momento. Las variables asociadas a hospitalizaciones fueron: terapia con corticoides, ciclofosfamida y mayor SLICC. Conclusiones: se refleja la complejidad del manejo de estos pacientes y se visualizan aspectos estructurales como la desigualdad. El uso del belimumab resultaría beneficioso en los pacientes seleccionados.

Introduction: lupus is a complex disease and often difficult to approach. Achieving remission is one of the objectives, incorporating therapeutic options. Objectives: to describe the characteristics of the patients and the use of belimumab, according to the status of the disease. Materials and methods: cross-sectional study. Patients of the RELESSAR registry. Stratification: Remission: SLEDAI=0 and without corticosteroids. Low disease activity SLEDAI> 0 and ≤4 and without corticosteroids and non-optimal control: SLEDAI> 4 and any dose of corticosteroids. Results: a total of 1,277 patients were included, 23.4% in remission, 12.6% in low disease activity and 63.8% in non-optimal control. The last group was younger and had a shorter duration of the disease. They had higher activity and chronicity indices and greater use of immunosuppressants. Only 22.3% of the patients with potential criteria for the use of belimumab (activity disease despite standard treatment) were receiving it. The variables associated with hospitalizations were: corticosteroids, cyclophosphamide and higher SLICC. Those associated with severe infection: mycophenolate mofetil, azathioprine, corticosteroids, and higher SLICC. Conclusions: the complexity of the management of these patients is reflected, visualizing structural aspects such as inequality. The use of belimumab could be beneficial in selected patients.

Reticulohistiocitosis multicéntrica: una gran simuladora dentro de la Reumatología / Multicentric reticulohistiocytosis: a great pretender within Rheumatology

La reticulohistiocitosis multicéntrica (RHM) es una histiocitosis de células no Langerhans, multisistémica, rara, caracterizada por afectación cutánea y articular, que poco frecuentemente afecta a otros órganos. El diagnóstico se basa en hallazgos clínicos y resultados de biopsias de piel o sinovial, sin describirse un parámetro de laboratorio específico. Realizamos una revisión de la literatura en relación a las características clínicas de esta entidad desde el punto de vista reumatológico.

Multicentric reticulohistiocytosis (MHR) is a rare, multisystem, non-Langerhans cell histiocytosis characterized by skin and joint involvement, and rarely involving other organs. Diagnosis is based on clinical findings and results of skin or synovial biopsies; a specific laboratory parameter has not been described. We conducted a review of the literature regarding the clinical characteristics of this entity from a rheumatological point of view.

Demora en el inicio del tratamiento biológico o sintético dirigido en pacientes con artritis reumatoidea y factores asociados a la misma / Delayed onset of biologic or targeted synthetic dmards in rheumatoid arthritis patients and associated factors

Introducción: el objetivo del tratamiento de la artritis reumatoidea (AR) es la remisión o baja actividad de la enfermedad. En aquellos pacientes que no logran dicho objetivo con drogas modificadoras de la enfermedad sintéticas convencionales (DMARsc), se indican los agentes biológicos (DMARb) o sintéticos dirigidos (DMARsd). El intervalo de tiempo entre la indicación y hasta que el paciente recibe la primera dosis es variable. Objetivos: describir el tiempo de demora y los motivos relacionados entre la indicación de DMARb o DMARsd y la administración de la primera dosis. Materiales y métodos: estudio observacional, analítico, retrospectivo. Se revisaron historias clínicas de pacientes con diagnóstico de AR, a quienes se les indicó DMARb o DMARsd. Se registraron datos sociodemográficos y características de la enfermedad. Respecto de la indicación de DMARb o DMARsd, se consignó: fecha de indicación, fecha en que el paciente recibió la primera dosis en forma efectiva y motivo de la demora. Resultados: se incluyeron 102 pacientes. La mediana de demora desde la indicación de la droga hasta que el paciente recibió la primera dosis fue de 240 días (RIC 113-504). El principal motivo de demora fue de índole burocrática (47%). Los pacientes con baja actividad de la enfermedad obtuvieron la medicación en menor tiempo (113 días) respecto de aquellos con actividad moderada (242 días) y alta actividad (332 días); p=0,01. Los pacientes en los cuales la demora fue por causas burocráticas, presentaron menor nivel de educación (60% vs 17% con educación superior) y residencia en la Provincia de Buenos Aires (58% vs 31% con residencia en la Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires), siendo estas asociaciones estadísticamente significativas. Conclusiones: la mediana en la demora para el inicio de DMARb o DMARsd fue de aproximadamente 8 meses. El motivo principal de este retraso fue de índole burocrática, evidenciándose la misma con mayor frecuencia en aquellos con menor nivel educativo y en los residentes en la Provincia de Buenos Aires.

Introduction: the goal of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) treatment is to obtain remission or low activity of the disease. In those patients who did not achieve this objective with conventional treatment, biologic or targeted synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (bDMARD or tsDMARD, respectively) are indicated. The period of time between the prescription of these medications and its administration is variable. Objectives: to describe the delay time between the prescription of a bDMARD or tsDMARD and the administration of the first dose, and its related reasons. Materials and methods: observational, analytical, retrospective study. Medical records of patients with a diagnosis of RA who were prescribed a bDMARD or tsDMARD were reviewed. Sociodemographic data and characteristics of the disease were recorded. Regarding the indication of bDMARDs or tsDMARs, the following data was collected: prescription date, date on which the patient received the first effective dose and reason for the delay. Results: 102 patients were included. The median delay time from the drug prescription until the patient received the first dose was 240 days (IQR 113-504). The main reason for delay was of bureaucratic nature (47%). Patients with low disease activity obtained the medication with a shorter delay (113 days) compared to those with moderate activity (242 days) and high activity (332 days); p=0.01. Patients with a delay related to bureaucratic causes, presented a lower level of education (60% vs 17% with higher education) and residence in the Province of Buenos Aires (58% vs 31% with residence in Autonomous City of Buenos Aires), and these differences were statistically significant. Conclusions: the median delay time to onset of bDMARDs or tsDMARDs was approximately 8 months. The main reason for this delay was of bureaucratic nature, being more frequent in those with lower educational level and residence in the Province of Buenos Aires.

Lupus en Argentina. Pacientes no respondedores al tratamiento estándar y belimumab como posible opción. Datos del registro RELESSAR / Lupus in Argentina. Non-responders to standard treatment and belimumab as a possible option. RELESSAR record data

Introducción: el lupus es una enfermedad compleja y varias veces de difícil abordaje. Alcanzar la remisión es uno de los objetivos, incorporando opciones terapéuticas. Objetivos: describir las características generales de los pacientes según el estado de la enfermedad y el uso de belimumab. Materiales y métodos: estudio de corte transversal, registro RELESSAR. Se definió el estado de la enfermedad como: remisión: SLEDAI=0 y sin corticoides; baja actividad de la enfermedad: SLEDAI >0 y ≤4 y sin corticoides; control no óptimo: SLEDAI >4 y cualquier dosis de corticoides. Resultados: se incluyeron 1.277 pacientes, 23,4% en remisión, 12,6% en baja actividad y 63,8% con control no óptimo. En este último grupo eran más jóvenes y con menor duración de la enfermedad; presentaban mayores índices de actividad y cronicidad, y mayor empleo de inmunosupresores. Solo el 22,3% de los pacientes con criterio potencial de uso de belimumab (lupus eritematoso sistémico activo a pesar del tratamiento estándar) lo recibía en ese momento. Las variables asociadas a hospitalizaciones fueron: terapia con corticoides, ciclofosfamida y mayor SLICC. Conclusiones: se refleja la complejidad del manejo de estos pacientes y se visualizan aspectos estructurales como la desigualdad. El uso del belimumab resultaría beneficioso en los pacientes seleccionados.

Introduction: lupus is a complex disease and often difficult to approach. Achieving remission is one of the objectives, incorporating therapeutic options. Objectives: to describe the characteristics of the patients and the use of belimumab, according to the status of the disease. Materials and methods: cross-sectional study. Patients of the RELESSAR registry. Stratification: Remission: SLEDAI=0 and without corticosteroids. Low disease activity SLEDAI> 0 and ≤4 and without corticosteroids and non-optimal control: SLEDAI> 4 and any dose of corticosteroids. Results: a total of 1,277 patients were included, 23.4% in remission, 12.6% in low disease activity and 63.8% in non-optimal control. The last group was younger and had a shorter duration of the disease. They had higher activity and chronicity indices and greater use of immunosuppressants. Only 22.3% of the patients with potential criteria for the use of belimumab (activity disease despite standard treatment) were receiving it. The variables associated with hospitalizations were: corticosteroids, cyclophosphamide and higher SLICC. Those associated with severe infection: mycophenolate mofetil, azathioprine, corticosteroids, and higher SLICC. Conclusions: the complexity of the management of these patients is reflected, visualizing structural aspects such as inequality. The use of belimumab could be beneficial in selected patients.

Reticulohistiocitosis multicéntrica: una gran simuladora dentro de la Reumatología / Multicentric reticulohistiocytosis: a great pretender within Rheumatology

La reticulohistiocitosis multicéntrica (RHM) es una histiocitosis de células no Langerhans, multisistémica, rara, caracterizada por afectación cutánea y articular, que poco frecuentemente afecta a otros órganos. El diagnóstico se basa en hallazgos clínicos y resultados de biopsias de piel o sinovial, sin describirse un parámetro de laboratorio específico. Realizamos una revisión de la literatura en relación a las características clínicas de esta entidad desde el punto de vista reumatológico.

Multicentric reticulohistiocytosis (MHR) is a rare, multisystem, non-Langerhans cell histiocytosis characterized by skin and joint involvement, and rarely involving other organs. Diagnosis is based on clinical findings and results of skin or synovial biopsies; a specific laboratory parameter has not been described. We conducted a review of the literature regarding the clinical characteristics of this entity from a rheumatological point of view.

Primary Sjögren syndrome and development of another autoimmune rheumatic disease during the follow-up

Abstract Background: Primary Sjögren syndrome (pSS) is a chronic autoimmune disease with its main target being exocrine glands, and is the connective tissue disease more frequently associated with other autoimmune diseases. The aim of this study was to assess the frequency of another autoimmune rheumatic disease (ARD) developed in primary Sjögren syndrome (pSS) patients and to describe it's clinical, serological and histologic characteristics. Materials and methods: This is a retrospective cohort study. Data of patients with pSS diagnosis (American-European criteria 2002), included in the GESSAR database (Grupo de Estudio Síndrome de Sjögren, Sociedad Argentina de Reumatología) were analyzed. The development of a second ARD was registered during the follow up. Results: 681 patients were included, 94.8% female. The mean age was 54 (SD 14) years and mean age at diagnosis of 50 (SD 13) years. The mean follow-up was 4.7 (SD 4.9) years; 30 patients (4.41%, CI 95%: 3.1-5.7) developed a second ARD during the follow up, incidence rate was 9.1/1000 patients-year (IR 95%: 5.8-12.4/1000 patients-year), the most frequent being rheumatoid arthritis (RA). 96% out of these 30 patients had xerophthalmia, 86.2% xerostomia, 92% positive Schirmer test, 88.24% positive Rosa Bengala test, lisamine green or Ocular Staining Score, 81.2% positive unstimulated salivary flow, 82.1% Ro(+) and 33.33% La(+). Minor salivary gland biopsy had been performed in 14 of the 30 patients, 12 with positive results. There were no statistically significant differences respect baseline characteristics when comparing the patients who developed another ARD to the ones that did not. Conclusions: Of all the patients analyzed, 4.4% presented another ARD during their follow-up. It is important to be aware of this, to make an early and proper diagnosis and treatment of our patients. Key points Patients with primary Sjögren's Syndrome may develop another connective tissue disease during follow-up. The most frequently connective tissue disease developed during follow-up in the population of patients with primary Sjogren's Syndrome studied was rheumatoid arthritis. It is important to be aware of this to make an early and proper diagnosis.

Validation and adaptation of the Spanish version of the systemic lupus activity questionnaire (S-SLAQ) in an Argentinean population.

OBJECTIVES: To validate the systemic lupus activity questionnaire (SLAQ) in Spanish language. METHODS: The SLAQ questionnaire was translated and adapted in Spanish. Consecutive SLE patients from 8 centers in Argentina were included. A rheumatologist completed a Systemic Lupus Activity Measure (SLAM), Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI)-2K, and a physician's assessment. Reliability was assessed by internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha), stability by test-retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient), and construct validity by evaluating the correlation with clinically relevant scores. Sensitivity and specificity for clinically significant disease activity (SLEDAI ≥6) of different S-SLAQ cut-off points were evaluated. RESULTS: We included 97 patients ((93% female, mean age: 40 years (SD14.7)). Internal consistency was excellent (Cronbach's alpha = 0.84, p < 0.001), and the intraclass correlation coefficient was 0.95 (p < 0.001). Mean score of S-SLAQ was 8.2 (SD 7.31). Correlation of S-SLAQ was moderate with Patient NRS (r= 0.63 p< 0.001), weak with SLAM-no lab (r = 0.42, p <0.001) and SLAM (r = 0.38, p < 0.0001), and very weak with SLEDAI-2K (r = 0.15, p =0.1394). Using the S-SLAQ cutoff of five points, the sensitivity was 72.2% and specificity was 37.9%, for clinically significant disease activity. CONCLUSIONS: The S-SLAQ showed good validity and reliability. A good correlation, similar to the original instrument, was observed with patient´s global disease activity. No correlation was found between S-SLAQ and gold standard disease activity measures like SLEDAI-2K and SLAM. The S-SLAQ cutoff point of 5 showed a good sensitivity to identify the active SLE population and therefore could be an appropriate screening instrument for disease activity in clinical and epidemiological studies.