Arthralgia with risk of progression to psoriatic arthritis: role of clinical assessments and ultrasound as prognostic factors.

OBJECTIVES: Referral of patients from dermatology to rheumatology practices due to psoriasis is unnecessary delayed. Many times musculoskeletal symptoms are the first reason for consultation. We aimed to estimate the proportion of ARP-PsA (arthralgia with risk to progression) defined by patients with arthralgia and the presence of psoriasis and/or a family history. Also, identify clinical, laboratory, and imaging prognostic factors of PsA progression within the ARP-PsA group over a one-year follow-up period. METHODS: Patients were included in a comprehensive arthralgia evaluation program, with the ARP-PsA criteria defined as arthralgia with Pso and/or a family history of Pso, not referred from dermatology. Baseline characteristics were analyzed, and the progression to PsA at one year was assessed. Multivariate analysis identified predictor features for progression. RESULTS: Of the 1419 patients, 8.4% met ARP-PsA criteria, and 29% of this subgroup developed PsA at one year. Baseline differences between those who developed PsA and those who did not included family history, Pso duration, pain severity, joint count, and imaging findings (X-ray and ultrasound). Multivariate analysis revealed the predictive significance of a combination of Pso plus family history of psoriasis disease, synovitis by Power Doppler ultrasound, ultrasound enthesopathy findings, and low tender joint count. CONCLUSION: The frequency of patients ARP-PsA was 8.4%, of whom 29% developed PsA at 1-year. The main predictor variables for this progression were identified.

Treatment of Chronic Haemophilic Synovitis with PRP: Clinical and In Vitro Studies.

Intra-articular blood, iron and hemosiderin, hydroxyl radical cytokines, and neo-angiogenesis cause synovial inflammation, which leads to cartilage and joint damage. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) inhibits most of the mediators that produce and maintain synovitis. We compile here our work showing the clinical effectiveness of intra-articular PRP injections and their potential role in stopping articular cartilage damage due to bleeding and its possible repair. A total of 116 joints, including knees (63%), elbows (19.8%), and ankles (17.2%), were treated with intra-articular injections of PRP. Moreover, we also show here the number of extracellular DNA traps (ETs) and the PRP effect in the synovial fluid of patients at the time of treatment and six months after. Clinically, it is demonstrated that PRP is effective in reducing bleeding episodes (p < 0.001) and pain (p < 0.0001) and improving the hemophilia joint health score (HJHS) (p < 0.001) at one year of follow-up. Furthermore, our results demonstrate that PRP inhibits ET formation in vitro and reconstitutes the immune system's cellular components in the synovial fluid of patients after treatment. We conclude that PRP can be considered an effective, safe, and easy treatment for hemophilic synovitis.

[Open surgical management of recurrent pigmented villonodular synovitis: case report and literature review]. / Manejo quirúrgico abierto de la sinovitis villonodular pigmentada recurrente: reporte de caso y revisión de literatura.

INTRODUCTION: pigmented villonodular synovitis (PVNS) is a benign condition that affects the knee, leading to abnormal proliferation of the synovial membrane and the accumulation of hemosiderin in the joint cavity. Although it can be surgically treated, PVNS tends to have a high recurrence rate, potentially resulting in chronic joint damage. CASE REPORT: we present the case of a young woman who experienced localized pain in her right knee due to a recurrence of PVNS. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed multiple multilobulated cystic lesions affecting the entire joint, including the ligaments. The patient underwent open surgical resection with a favorable clinical outcome. Histopathological examinations confirmed the absence of malignancy. CONCLUSION: while arthroscopy is typically the preferred treatment for PVNS, this case highlights the tendency for recurrence associated with this approach. Open surgical resection, supported by benign histopathological findings in this case, suggests a favorable long-term prognosis.

INTRODUCCIÓN: la sinovitis villonodular pigmentada (SVNP) es una enfermedad benigna que afecta la articulación de la rodilla, que causa una proliferación anormal de la membrana sinovial y la acumulación de hemosiderina en la cavidad articular. A pesar de que es posible tratarla mediante cirugía, la SVNP tiende a tener una alta tasa de recurrencia, lo que puede resultar en daño articular crónico. REPORTE DEL CASO: se presenta el caso de una mujer joven que experimentó dolor localizado en la rodilla derecha debido a una recurrencia de SVNP. La resonancia magnética reveló múltiples lesiones quísticas multilobuladas que afectaban a toda la articulación, incluyendo los ligamentos. La paciente fue sometida a una resección quirúrgica abierta, con una evolución clínica favorable. Los exámenes histopatológicos confirmaron la ausencia de malignidad. CONCLUSIÓN: aunque la artroscopía se considera el tratamiento de elección para la SVNP, este caso ilustra la tendencia a la recurrencia asociada con este enfoque. La resección quirúrgica abierta, respaldada por los hallazgos histopatológicos benignos en este caso, sugiere un pronóstico favorable a largo plazo.

Ultrasonographic Insights into Peripheral Psoriatic Arthritis: Updates in Diagnosis and Monitoring.

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a chronic inflammatory arthritis associated with psoriasis, characterized by heterogeneous clinical manifestations and variable disease progression. Ultrasonography has emerged as a valuable tool in the diagnosis and monitoring of PsA, providing real-time visualization of joint and soft tissue abnormalities. This review highlights recent advancements in ultrasonographic techniques for the assessment of PsA, including the identification of typical features, the role of power Doppler imaging in detecting active inflammation, and the potential of ultrasound for guiding treatment decisions. Additionally, we discuss the utility of ultrasound in assessing treatment response and monitoring disease progression in patients with PsA, with a focus on novel imaging modalities. By elucidating the evolving role of ultrasonography in PsA management, this article aims to enhance clinicians' understanding of its utility in facilitating early diagnosis, optimizing treatment strategies, and improving patient outcomes.

The effect of low dose intra-articular S(+) ketamine on osteoarthritis in rats: an experimental study.

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to investigate the analgesic impact of S(+)-ketamine on pain behavior and synovial inflammation in an osteoarthritis (OA) model. METHODS: Animals were grouped as follows: OA-Saline (n = 24) and OA-Ketamine (n = 24), OA induced via intra-articular sodium monoiodoacetate (MIA); a Non-OA group (n = 24) served as the control. On the 7th day post OA induction, animals received either saline or S(+)-ketamine (0.5 mg.kg-1). Behavioral and histopathological assessments were conducted up to day 28. RESULTS: S(+)-ketamine reduced allodynia from day 7 to 28 and hyperalgesia from day 10 to 28. It notably alleviated weight distribution deficits from day 10 until the end of the study. Significant walking improvement was observed on day 14 in S(+)-ketamine-treated rats. Starting on day 14, OA groups showed grip force decline, which was countered by S(+)-ketamine on day 21. However, S(+)-ketamine did not diminish synovial inflammation. CONCLUSION: Low Intra-articular (IA) doses of S(+)-ketamine reduced MIA-induced OA pain but did not reverse synovial histopathological changes. IRB APPROVAL NUMBER: 23115 012030/2009-05.

How Does Ultrasound Global OMERACT-EULAR Synovitis Score (GLOESS) for Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) Activity Assessment Perform in Real-Life?

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of the Global OMERACT-EULAR Synovitis Score (GLOESS) of bilateral second to fifth metacarpophalangeal joints (MCP 2-5) in evaluating rheumatoid arthritis (RA) activity in a real-life setting. METHODS: This cross-sectional study included consecutive RA patients without hyperalgesia. Clinical data were extracted from electronic medical records. Evaluations were conducted on bilateral MCP 2-5 by two independent experts in musculoskeletal ultrasound (MSUS). Correlation between clinical and ultrasonographic parameters was analyzed, aiming to define a cutoff value for detecting disease activity. RESULTS: Sixty-nine patients were included. The mean DAS28-ESR was 4.3 (±1.4), and the median GLOESS was 7 (13). The correlation between GLOESS and DAS28 was moderate (r = .62; P < .05). A total GLOESS score of ≤3 and all joints with both GS and PD ≤1 showed good sensitivity and specificity for detecting disease activity (remission/low vs moderate/high, P = 0). CONCLUSION: In a real-life scenario, GLOESS for MCP 2-5 emerges as a valuable measure of RA activity. The optimal cutoff distinguishing remission/low from moderate/high disease activity was determined to be GLOESS ≤3, with all MCP joints exhibiting both GS and PD scores of ≤1.

Effects of intra-articular injection of platelet-rich plasma on the inflammatory process and histopathological characteristics of cartilage and synovium in animals with osteoarthritis: a systematic review with meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Osteoarthritis (OA) affects the entire joint, causing structural changes in articular cartilage, subchondral bone, ligaments, capsule, synovial membrane, and periarticular muscles that afflicts millions of people globally, leading to persistent pain and diminished quality of life. The intra-articular use of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is gaining recognition as a secure therapeutic approach due to its potential regenerative capabilities. However, there is controversial clinical data regarding efficacy of PRP for OA treatment. In this context, gathering scientific evidence on the effects of PRP in treating OA in animal models could provide valuable insights into understanding its impact on aspects like cartilage health, synovial tissue integrity, and the inflammatory process in affected joints. Thus, the objective of this study was to assess the effects of PRP injections on inflammation and histopathological aspects of cartilage and synovium in animal models of OA through a comprehensive systematic review with meta-analysis. METHODS: A electronic search was conducted on Medline, Embase, Web of Science, The Cochrane Library, LILACS, and SciELO databases for relevant articles published until June 2022. A random-effects meta-analysis was employed to synthesize evidence on the histological characteristics of cartilage and synovium, as well as the inflammatory process. The GRADE approach was utilized to categorize the quality of evidence, and methodological quality was assessed using SYRCLE's RoB tool. RESULTS: Twenty-one studies were included in the review, with twelve of them incorporated into the meta-analysis. PRP treatment demonstrated superior outcomes compared to the control group in terms of cartilage histology (very low quality; p = 0.0002), synovium histology (very low quality; p < 0.0001), and reductions in proinflammatory markers, including IL-1 (low quality; p = 0.002), IL-6 (very low quality; p < 0.00001), and TNF-α (very low; p < 0.00001). However, PRP treatment did not yield a significant impact on PDGF-A levels (very low quality; p = 0.81). CONCLUSION: PRP appears capable of reducing proinflammatory markers (IL-1, IL-6, TNF-α) and mitigating cartilage and synovium damage in animals with OA. However, the levels of evidence of these findings are low to very low. Therefore, more rigorous studies with larger samples are needed to improve the quality of evidence. PROSPERO REGISTRATION: CRD42022250314.

Low prevalence of subclinical synovitis in patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) in long-term clinical remission on medication.

Subclinical synovitis is highly prevalent in patients with JIA in clinical remission (CR) with a short duration. The objective was to evaluate its prevalence by ultrasound (US) in patients with JIA in long CR during a one-year follow-up. In this prospective and longitudinal study, we included 76 patients with JIA according to ILAR with CR by the Wallace modified criteria and JADAS27 and compared them with 22 patients with active disease. Clinical and demographic characteristics were recorded. US evaluation was by 10-joint count. Differences in US evaluations were analyzed by the Mann-Whitney U test. There were no differences among the two group with regard to disease duration at enrollment, and age (p = 0.540 and p = 0.080, respectively), but JADAS 27, CHAQ, and acute phase reactants were significantly higher (p < 0.001) in the clinically active group. The prevalence of subclinical synovitis at baseline and the end of the study in the CR group was 18.4% and 11.8%, respectively, while it was 100% and 40.9% in the active disease group. Subclinical synovitis at baseline was significantly more prevalent in the clinically active group (elbow, p = 0.01; wrist, p = 0.001; MCP 2, p = 0.001; knee, p = 0.001 and ankle p = 0.001; and PD only in the ankle, p = 0.002). The concordance of inter-reader reliability in all evaluated joints was excellent (p = 0.001). Although the prevalence of subclinical synovitis is low in patients with JIA with long-term clinical remission on medication, a percentage of patients continue to have subclinical involvement that could predict the risk of relapse and structural damage. Key Points • Subclinical synovitis is less prevalent in JIA in long-term clinical remission compared to patients in short-term remission. • The persistence of imaging signs of inflammation in a significant percentage of patients may indicate the need for ongoing medication.

The effect of low dose intra-articular S(+) ketamine on osteoarthritis in rats: an experimental study

Abstract Background: This study aimed to investigate the analgesic impact of S(+)-ketamine on pain behavior and synovial inflammation in an osteoarthritis (OA) model. Methods: Animals were grouped as follows: OA-Saline (n = 24) and OA-Ketamine (n = 24), OA induced via intra-articular sodium monoiodoacetate (MIA); a Non-OA group (n = 24) served as the control. On the 7th day post OA induction, animals received either saline or S(+)-ketamine (0.5 mg.kg-1). Behavioral and histopathological assessments were conducted up to day 28. Results: S(+)-ketamine reduced allodynia from day 7 to 28 and hyperalgesia from day 10 to 28. It notably alleviated weight distribution deficits from day 10 until the end of the study. Significant walking improvement was observed on day 14 in S(+)-ketamine-treated rats. Starting on day 14, OA groups showed grip force decline, which was countered by S(+)-ketamine on day 21. However, S(+)-ketamine did not diminish synovial inflammation. Conclusion: Low Intra-articular (IA) doses of S(+)-ketamine reduced MIA-induced OA pain but did not reverse synovial histopathological changes. IRB approval number: 23115 012030/2009-05.

A rare giant geode of humeral head in an uncontrolled rheumatoid arthritis: a case report.

INTRODUCTION: Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disease depicted by peripheral bone erosive damage leading to joint destruction, deformity and functional impairment. Shoulder involvement is less frequent than hands, wrists and feet, and relevant joint damage may be underdiagnosed if a lower threshold for careful analysis of this joint is not settled, especially in uncontrolled disease. CASE REPORT: A 70-year-old male with a difficult-to-manage RA since 2010, presenting severe shoulder arthritis with MRI showing a striking giant geode in the left humeral head. CONCLUSION: An impressive MRI image showing a giant geode in poorly controlled RA should alert rheumatologists to raise suspicion of shoulder involvement for early investigation and treatment.

Recurrent Diffuse Pigmented Villonodular Synovitis in the Hand of a Pediatric Patient: A Case Report.

Diffuse pigmented villonodular synovitis is characterized by synovial inflammation and hemosiderin deposition. It mainly occurs in adults, with the hip and knees being the most common sites of involvement. It is associated with high recurrence rates, with open synovectomy being the most common treatment method to avoid recurrences. Few cases of diffuse pigmented villonodular synovitis have been reported in pediatric patients, especially in uncommon locations such as the hand. This case presents pathology-confirmed diffuse pigmented villonodular synovitis in the hand of a pediatric patient with multiple recurrences despite adequate surgical margins. The patient underwent mass excision with adjuvant radiation treatment after his last recurrence, with excellent functional outcomes and no recurrence at the five-year follow-up.

[Remitting seronegative symetrical synovitis with pitting edema. One case report]. / Sinovitis simétrica seronegativa remitente con edema y fóvea. Presentación de un caso.

Background: RS3PE (remitting seronegative symmetrical synovitis with edema and pitting) is a rare entity of unknown etiology that has been related to genetic predisposition due to the presence of HLA-A2 in 50% of cases and less frequently HLA-B7. Its pathogenesis is unknown, but it has been related to growth factors, and some mediators (TNF, IL-6). It is common in elderly people and the course of this illness presents with acute symmetrical polyarthritis, accompanied by edema in hands and feet. The diagnosis requires a high index of suspicion and to differentiate it from other entities such as rheumatoid arthritis, complex regional pain syndrome, rheumatic polymyalgia, in addition to ruling out malignant neoplasms, since there are many reports of its association with both solid and hematological neoplasms, being of bad prognosis when there is association. When there is no association with cancer, it responds well to the use of low doses of steroids and its prognosis is usually favorable. Clinical case: 80-year-old woman with an acute onset with polyarthralgia, functional limitation associated with pitting edema in hands and feet. After approaching the patient and ruling out associated neoplasms, it was diagnosed RS3PE. It was managed with prednisone, observing a good response, with remission of the manifestations at 6 weeks and subsequent suspension of the steroid. Conclusions: RS3PE is a rare entity, and a high index of suspicion is required for the diagnosis. A complete approach is important to rule out cancer in patients affected with this syndrome. Prednisone continues to be the best therapeutic option.

Introducción: la RS3PE (sinovitis simétrica seronegativa remitente con edema y fóvea) es una entidad rara de etiología desconocida que se ha relacionado con predisposición genética por la presencia de HLA-A2 en el 50% de los casos y con menor frecuencia HLA-B7. Se desconoce su patogenia, pero se ha relacionado con factores de crecimiento y algunos mediadores (TNF, IL-6). Se presenta en personas de edad avanzada, cursa con poliartritis aguda simétrica, acompañada de edema en manos y pies. El diagnóstico requiere de un alto índice de sospecha y diferenciarlo de otras entidades como artritis reumatoide, síndrome de dolor regional complejo, polimialgia reumática, además de descartar neoplasias malignas, ya que existen muchos reportes de su asociación con neoplasias tanto sólidas como hematológicas y es de mal pronóstico cuando existe asociación. Cuando no existe asociación con cáncer tiene buena respuesta al uso de dosis bajas de esteroides y su pronóstico suele ser favorable. Caso clínico: mujer de 80 años con un cuadro de inicio agudo con poliartralgias, limitación funcional asociada a edema de manos y pies con fóvea. Después del abordaje y de descartar neoplasias asociadas, se diagnosticó RS3PE. Se manejó con prednisona y hubo buena respuesta, con remisión de las manifestaciones a las 6 semanas y suspensión posterior del esteroide. Conclusiones: la RS3PE es una entidad rara y para diagnosticarla se requiere un alto índice de sospecha. Es importante el abordaje completo para descartar cáncer en los pacientes afectados con este síndrome. La prednisona continúa siendo la mejor opción terapéutica.

Sinovite vilonodular pigmentada da articulação temporomandibular: uma revisão integrativa / Pigmented villonodular synovitis of the temporomandibular joint: an integrative review / Sinovitis villonodular pigmentada de la articulación temporomandibular: una revisión integradora

Objetivo: Avaliar os casos nos quais os pacientes apresentassem SVNP na ATM, incluindo aspectos clínicos, imaginológicos, histopatológicos e tratamento. Metodologia: Trata-se de uma revisão integrativa com dados obtidos nas bases de dados SciELO, PubMed, Medline e Lillacs entre 1982 e 2021, através dos descritores: "Case report", "Temporomandibular Joint", "Pigmented Villonodular Synovitis". Critérios de inclusão: estudos de relato de caso, textos completos disponíveis, idiomas de publicação em inglês, português ou espanhol. Critérios de exclusão: estudos sem presença de aspectos clínicos, relatos não localizados na ATM, artigos de metanálise, revisão sistemática e de literatura, ensaios clínicos, capítulos de livro, dissertações e teses. Dos 156 resultados, apenas 23 compuseram a revisão. Resultados: Como tratamento, a ressecção total através da cirurgia aberta é recomendada. Os sintomas mais comuns foram: dor na mastigação, trismo, dor pré auricular, dormência, parestesia, perca auditiva e inchaço da glândula parótida. Conclusão: Os aspectos imaginológicos revelam erosão de fossa glenóide e côndilo, histopatologicamente, células gigantes com depósito de hemossiderina, e o tratamento recomendado, ressecção via cirurgia aberta com posterior curetagem... (AU)

Objective: To evaluate the cases in which patients presented PVNS in the TMJ, including clinical, imaging, histopathological and treatment aspects. Methodology: This is an integrative review with data obtained from the SciELO, PubMed, Medline and Lillacs databases between 1982 and 2021, using the descriptors: "Case report", "Temporomandibular Joint", "Pigmented Villonodular Synovitis". Inclusion criteria: case report studies, full texts available, languages of publication in English, Portuguese or Spanish. Exclusion criteria: studies without the presence of clinical aspects, reports not located in the TMJ, meta analysis articles, systematic and literature reviews, clinical trials, book chapters, dissertations and theses. Of the 156 results, only 23 made up the review. Results: As a treatment, total resection through open surgery is recommended. The most common symptoms were: chewing pain, trismus, pre-auricular pain, numbness, paresthesia, hearing loss and parotid gland swelling. Conclusion: The imaging findings reveal erosion of the glenoid fossa and condyle, histopathologically, giant cells with hemosiderin deposits, and the recommended treatment, resection via open surgery with subsequent curettage... (AU)

Objetivo: Evaluar los casos en que los pacientes presentaron SVNP en la ATM, incluyendo aspectos clínicos, imagenológicos, histopatológicos y tratamiento. Metodología: Se trata de una revisión integradora con datos obtenidos de las bases de datos SciELO, PubMed, Medline y Lillacs entre 1982 y 2021, utilizando los descriptores: "Caso clínico", "Articulación temporomandibular", "Sinovitis villonodular pigmentada". Criterios de inclusión: estudios de casos clínicos, textos completos disponibles, idiomas de publicación en inglés, portugués o español. Criterios de exclusión: estudios sin aspectos clínicos, informes no localizados en la ATM, artículos de metanálisis, revisiones sistemáticas y de literatura, ensayos clínicos, capítulos de libros, disertaciones y tesis. De los 156 resultados, 23 conformaron la revisión. Resultados: Como tratamiento se recomienda la resección total mediante cirugía abierta. Los síntomas más frecuentes fueron: dolor masticatorio, trismus, dolor preauricular, entumecimiento, parestesia, hipoacusia e inflamación de glándula parótida. Conclusión: Los hallazgos imagenológicos revelan erosión de fosa glenoidea y cóndilo, histopatológicamente células gigantes con depósitos de hemosiderina y el tratamiento recomendado, resección abierta con posterior curetaje... (AU)

Lead synovitis: The important role of radiology on diagnosis and follow-up: Case report.

We present the case report of a 67-year-old man with a history of a firearm injury on the left upper extremity 35 years ago. Lead synovitis and imaging features are reviewed, emphasizing radiology's crucial role in diagnosing and following this condition.

DNA extracellular traps as potential biomarker of chronic haemophilic synovitis and therapeutic perspective in patients treated with PRP: A pilot study.

INTRODUCTION: Hemarthrosis causes chronic haemophilic synovitis (CHS). Although neutrophils are major immune cells infiltrating joints after bleeding, their role on the pathogenesis of CHS is unknown. Neutrophils release extracellular DNA traps (ETs), structures of DNA with bound granular enzymes that were associated with tissue damage. AIMS: To evaluate the presence of ETs as pathogenic biomarker and the protective effect of intraarticular injection of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in patients with CHS. METHODS: Haemophilia Joint Health Score (HJHS) and bleeding episodes (BE) were measured and correlated with ETs indicators (DNA/DNA-Elastase) in synovial fluids (SF), PRP and plasma of 21 patients. RESULTS: Soluble DNA and DNA-Elastase were detected in SF and plasma of patients. The synovial and plasma levels of DNA-Elastase positively correlated with worse HJHS/BE. Interestingly, remaining ETs-inducer factors were present in SF that induced the in vitro release of ETs from blood-isolated neutrophils. This phenomenon was impaired by adding plasma or PRP. Finally, preliminary data obtained from five patients indicate that levels of DNA-Elastase and HJHS/BE decreased after receiving intraarticular injection of PRP. CONCLUSIONS: The synovial and plasma levels of DNA-Elastase correlated with worse HJHS/BE suggesting that ETs formation could be a biomarker and potential therapeutic target for CHS. The intraarticular injection of PRP underlined a new potential alternative therapy, decreasing ETs formation in synovia of patients with CHS. However, our hypotheses must be confirmed in the future with better designed and more statistical power studies. Meanwhile, the use of intraarticular injections of PRP for the treatment of CHS remains controversial.

Bone erosions by MRI in first-degree relatives of patients with RA: an exploratory study.

INTRODUCTION/OBJECTIVES: First-degree relatives (FDR) of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are at increased risk of RA diagnosis. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been proposed as a useful tool to detect subclinical synovitis and bone abnormalities as predictors of progression to RA. The presence of grade ≥ 2 bone erosions in RA MRI scoring system (RAMRIS) was reported to be RA-specific. We aim to describe the prevalence and characteristics of MRI findings in RA patients and FDR. METHODS: A cross-sectional and exploratory study of 60 individuals was performed in 38 RA patients and 22 FDR with hand arthralgia without clinical arthritis and positive rheumatoid factor or anticitrullinated protein antibodies. All patients underwent an MRI and were evaluated for synovitis, bone erosion, and bone marrow edema. We evaluated second to fifth metacarpophalangeal joints of the dominant hand according to RAMRIS. RESULTS: Among the total population, eighteen (30%) subjects had grade ≥ 2 bone erosions, and 42 (70%) had at least one erosion of any grade. In patients with grade ≥ 2 bone erosions, 12 (31.6%) were from RA patients and 6 (27.2%) from FDR (p = 0.72). In patients with erosions of any grade, 26 (68.4%) were from RA patients and 15 (68.2%) were from FDR (p = 0.98). CONCLUSION: A high prevalence of bone erosions was found in RA patients' FDR who had symptoms without clinical arthritis and positive serology. MRI might be helpful in this population for an early detection of RA-specific erosions. The prognosis and the treatment decisions in these subjects should be elucidated. KEY POINTS: • First-degree relatives (FDR) of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients with positive serology and joint symptoms constitute a select subpopulation of individuals with an increased risk of developing RA. • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of FDR shows a high prevalence of bone erosions of any grade, grade ≥ 2 erosions, and synovitis. • MRI might be helpful in FDR of RA patients to screen for the presence of RA-specific erosions or clinically undetectable synovitis.

Temporomandibular joint in juvenile idiopathic arthritis: magnetic resonance imaging measurements and their correlation with imaging findings.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate the TMJ components in patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) and to compare them with a control group based on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) measurements. METHODS: This study comprised an assessment of MRI measurements of 96 temporomandibular joints (TMJ) following classification criteria set by the International League of Associations for Rheumatology (ILAR). Three measurements were considered for study: condyle excursion angle (CEA), height of articular eminence (HAE) and inclination of articular eminence (IAE). All TMJs were assessed by linear measurements made by using the OnDemand 3D software. The comparison between the groups was performed by using Mann-Whitney's test. RESULTS: Lower measurement values were found for IAE, HAE and CEA in JIA patients (P-values < 0.001, 0.005 and < 0.001, respectively). CONCLUSION: The study showed the differences in MRI measurements between JIA patients and controls, with the former with the lowest indices.

Ultrasound assessment of sheep stifle joint undergone lipopolysaccharide-induced synovitis / Ultrassonografia da articulação femorotibiopatelar em ovinos submetidos à indução de sinovite por lipopolissacarídeos

Synovitis can be induced in animals through the application of bacterial wall lipopolysaccharide and has similar signs to naturally-occurring synovitis. Several studies have been using the sheep species as an experimental model to understand osteoarticular diseases of the femorotibiopatellar (FTP) joint in humans. There are echographic studies on the standardization of normality of the femorotibiopatellar joint in sheep. However, there is a gap in the literature for changes such as acute synovitis. The objective was to serially describe the sonographic aspects of the synovitis process induced by intra-articular infiltration of Escherichia coli (E. coli) lipopolysaccharide in the femorotibiopatellar joint of sheep. Twelve healthy crossbred sheep (Santa Inês x Dorper) were used. Induction of synovitis was performed only in the right FTP joints, which were serially evaluated using ultrasound examination at baseline moment (M0) and 12 (M12), 24 (M24), 48 (M48), 72 (M72), and 120 (M120) hours after lipopolysaccharide infiltration for synovitis induction. Intra-articular application of E. coli lipopolysaccharide resulted in one or more echographic signs of synovitis (increased synovial fluid volume, folding of the synovial membrane, and cellularity in the joint cavity), which were identified early, 12 hours after inoculation, and regressed over the evaluated times (p=0.0001) until disappearing after 120 hours of inoculation.

A sinovite pode ser induzida em animais por meio da aplicação de lipopolissacarídeo de parede bacteriana, e apresenta sinais semelhantes à sinovite causada de forma natural. Diversos estudos têm sido realizados utilizando a espécie ovina como modelo experimental na compreensão das enfermidades osteoarticulares da articulação femorotibiopatelar (FTP) em humanos. Existem estudos ecográficos quanto a padronização da normalidade da articulação femorotibiopatelar em ovinos. Porém, para as alterações, como a sinovite aguda há lacuna na literatura. Objetivou-se descrever, de forma seriada, os aspectos ultrassonográficos do processo de sinovite induzida por infiltração intra-articular de lipopolissacarídeo de Escherichia coli (E. coli) na articulação femorotibiopatelar de ovinos. Foram utilizados 12 ovinos mestiços (Santa Inês x Dorper), hígidos. A indução da sinovite foi realizada apenas nas articulações FTP direitas, as quais foram avaliadas, por meio do exame ultrassonográfico de forma seriada, nos momentos basal (M0) e às 12 (M12), 24 (M24), 48 (M48), 72 (M72) e 120 (M120) horas após a infiltração com lipopolissacarídeo para a indução de sinovite. A aplicação intra-articular de lipopolissacarídeo de E. coli resultou em um ou mais sinais ecográficos de sinovite (aumento de volume do fluido sinovial, pregueamento da membrana sinovial e celularidade na cavidade articular), os quais foram identificados precocemente, 12 horas após a inoculação, e regrediram ao longo dos tempos avaliados (p=0,0001), até desaparecerem após 120 horas da inoculação.

Pandora's Box: Disseminated Coccidioidomycosis Associated with Self-Medication with an Unregulated Potent Corticosteroid Acquired in Mexico.

Coccidioidomycosis (CM), caused by the dimorphic fungi Coccidioides immitis and C. posadasii, typically presents as acute or chronic pulmonary disease. However, disseminated disease occurs in about 1% of patients. Disseminated CM may affect multiple organ systems, including cutaneous, osteoarticular, and central nervous system sites. Here, we present a case of disseminated CM in a patient from a border city in Texas. The patient had a history of uncontrolled diabetes mellitus and was also taking an over-the-counter medication acquired in Mexico that contained a potent corticosteroid. The patient presented with seizures and was found to have a brain infarct, cavitary lung lesions, synovitis of the knee, multiple skin lesions, and chorioretinitis. The patient had a very high complement fixation titer for Coccidioides; fungal spherules were seen in a skin biopsy specimen, and Coccidioides grew in culture from a sample of synovial fluid and the skin biopsy specimen. This case illustrates the dissemination potential of Coccidioides, the danger of unregulated pharmaceuticals, the importance of thorough history taking, and recognizing risk factors that contribute to disseminated CM.

Diagnosis and treatment of articular manifestations of systemic lupus erythematosus / Diagnóstico y tratamiento de las manifestaciones articulares del lupus eritematoso sistémico

ABSTRACT Articular involvement in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is well recognized as one of the most common manifestations of the disease. This article reviews the recent knowledge of the clinical manifestations, diagnostic techniques and therapies used for the treatment of joint involvement in SLE. The degree of articular involvement is characterized by widespread heterogeneity in terms of clinical presentation and severity. It may range from minor arthralgia without erosions or deformity to erosive arthropathy and severe functional disability. Inflammatory musculoskeletal manifestations are described as a major cause of pain impacting daily activities and as a major determinant of quality-of-life impairment. Thus, physicians must be aware of articular involvement in SLE. Lupus arthritis diagnosis may be challenging, due to the frequently mild synovitis. The introduction of new more sensitive imaging techniques, such as ultrasound, and MRI have contributed significantly to improving the diagnosis of osteoarticular involvement in SLE. There are several treatment options for the management of joint manifestations in patients with SLE. The choice of treatment will depend on the type and pattern of joint involvement, its severity, and the characteristics of the patient.

RESUMEN El compromiso articular en lupus eritematoso sistémico (LES) es bien reconocido como una de las manifestaciones más comunes de la enfermedad. En el presente artículo se revisa la evidencia reciente sobre las manifestaciones clínicas, las técnicas de diagnóstico y los tratamientos utilizados para tratar el compromiso articular en el LES. El grado de compromiso articular se caracteriza por la amplia heterogeneidad en su presentación clínica y su gravedad. Puede variar desde artralgia leve sin erosiones o deformidad, hasta una artropatía erosiva y discapacidad funcional. Se describen las manifestaciones inflamatorias musculoesqueléticas como la principal causa de dolor que afecta las actividades de la vida cotidiana y como uno de los principales factores determinantes del deterioro de la calidad de vida. Por lo tanto, los médicos deben estar conscientes del compromiso articular en LES. El diagnóstico de la artritis lúpica puede ser difícil debido a la sinovitis, usualmente leve. El advenimiento de nuevas técnicas de imágenes más sensibles, como la ecografía y la resonancia magnética, ha contribuido significativamente a mejorar el diagnóstico del compromiso osteoarticular en LES. Existen varias opciones de tratamiento para las manifestaciones articulares en pacientes con LES. La opción de tratamiento dependerá del tipo y del patrón del compromiso articular, así como de las características del paciente.