Prevalence and sociodemographic correlates of antinuclear antibody testing by indirect immunofluorescence or solid-phase assays in a Spanish population: the Camargo Cohort.

Autoantibodies are the hallmark of autoimmunity, and specifically, antinuclear antibodies (ANA) are one of the most relevant antibodies present in systemic autoimmune diseases (AID). In the present study, we evaluate the relationship between ANA and sociodemographic and biobehavioral factors in a population with a low pre-test probability for systemic AID. ANA were determined in serum samples at baseline visit from 2997 participants from the Camargo Cohort using indirect immunofluorescence assay, and two solid phase assays (SPA), addressable laser bead immunoassay, and fluorescence enzyme immunoassay. Sociodemographic and biobehavioral features of the subjects were obtained at baseline visit using a structured questionnaire. The prevalence of ANA positive results was significantly higher when indirect immunofluorescence assay was used as screening method in comparison with SPAs, being higher in females, older subjects, and those with higher C-reactive protein levels. Considering biobehavioral features, the prevalence was higher in those individuals with a sedentary lifestyle, and in ex- and non-alcohol users. Moreover, considering the relevance of the antibody load using ANA Screen, the prevalence of the antibody load also increased with age, especially in females. In conclusion, the prevalence of ANA varies depending on sociodemographic and biobehavioral features of the subjects, which could be relevant specifically in a population with a low pre-test probability for systemic AIDs.

Pregnancy outcomes in 1869 pregnancies in a large cohort from the Spanish Society of Rheumatology Lupus Register (RELESSER).

INTRODUCTION: Obstetric complications are more common in women with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) than in the general population. OBJECTIVE: To assess pregnancy outcomes in women with SLE from the RELESSER cohort after 12 years of follow-up. METHODS: A multicentre retrospective observational study was conducted. In addition to data from the RELESSER register, data were collected on obstetric/gynaecological variables and treatments received. The number of term pregnancies was compared between women with pregnancies before and after the diagnosis of SLE. Further, clinical and laboratory characteristics were compared between women with pregnancies before and after the diagnosis, on the one hand, and with and without complications during pregnancy, on the other. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were carried out to identify factors potentially associated with complications during pregnancy. RESULTS: A total of 809 women were included, with 1869 pregnancies, of which 1395 reached term. Women with pregnancies before the diagnosis of SLE had more pregnancies (2.37 vs 1.87) and a higher rate of term pregnancies (76.8% vs 69.8%, p < 0.001) compared to those with pregnancies after the diagnosis. Women with pregnancies before the diagnosis were diagnosed at an older age (43.4 vs 34.1 years) and had more comorbidities. No differences were observed between the groups with pregnancies before and after diagnosis in antibody profile, including anti-dsDNA, anti-Sm, anti-Ro, anti-La, lupus anticoagulant, anticardiolipin or anti-beta-2-glycoprotein. Overall, 114 out of the 809 women included in the study experienced complications during pregnancy, including miscarriage, preeclampsia/eclampsia, foetal death, and/or preterm birth. Women with complications had higher rates of antiphospholipid syndrome (40.5% vs 9.9%, p < 0.001) and higher rates of positivity for IgG anticardiolipin (33.9% vs 21.3%, p = 0.005), IgG anti-beta 2 glycoprotein (26.1% vs 14%, p = 0.007), and IgM anti-beta 2 glycoprotein (26.1% vs 16%, p = 0.032) antibodies, although no differences were found regarding lupus anticoagulant. Among the treatments received, only heparin was more commonly used by women with pregnancy complications. We did not find differences in corticosteroid or hydroxychloroquine use. CONCLUSIONS: The likelihood of term pregnancy is higher before the diagnosis of SLE. In our cohort, positivity for anticardiolipin IgG and anti-beta-2- glycoprotein IgG/IgM, but not lupus anticoagulant, was associated with a higher risk of poorer pregnancy outcomes.

Comparison of ANA testing by indirect immunofluorescence or solid-phase assays in a low pre-test probability population for systemic autoimmune disease: the Camargo Cohort.

OBJECTIVES: Autoantibodies and, specifically antinuclear antibodies (ANA), are the hallmark of systemic autoimmune diseases (AID). In the last decades, there has been great technical development to detect these autoantibodies along with an increased request for this test by clinicians, while the overall pre-test probability has decreased. In this study, we compare the diagnostic performance of three different methods for ANA screening (indirect immunofluorescence [IIF], addressable laser bead immunoassay [ALBIA], and fluorescence enzyme immunoassay [FEIA]). METHODS: Serum samples at baseline visit from 2,997 participants from the Camargo Cohort, a population with an overall low pre-test probability for systemic AID, were analyzed with the three methods. Participants have a minimum follow-up of 10 years and the development of autoimmune diseases was collected from clinical records. RESULTS: The highest frequency of positive ANA was observed by IIF assay. However, ALBIA showed high sensitivity for AID. Likewise, solid phase assays (SPA) presented higher specificity than IIF for AID. ANA prevalence with any method was significantly higher in females and overall increased with age. Triple positivity for ANA was significantly related to the presence of anti-dsDNA-SSA/Ro60, Ro52, SSB/La, RNP, Scl-70, and centromere-specificities. No association was found for anti-Sm - RNP68, or ribosomal P - specificities. Noteworthy, triple positivity for ANA screening was associated with diagnosis of systemic AID both at baseline visit and follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: ANA detection by IIF may be better when the pre-test probability is high, whereas SPA techniques are more useful in populations with an overall low pre-test probability for systemic AID.

Relevance of gastrointestinal manifestations in a large Spanish cohort of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: what do we know?

OBJECTIVE: SLE can affect any part of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. GI symptoms are reported to occur in >50% of SLE patients. To describe the GI manifestations of SLE in the RELESSER (Registry of SLE Patients of the Spanish Society of Rheumatology) cohort and to determine whether these are associated with a more severe disease, damage accrual and a worse prognosis. METHODS: We conducted a nationwide, retrospective, multicentre, cross-sectional cohort study of 3658 SLE patients who fulfil ≥4 ACR-97 criteria. Data on demographics, disease characteristics, activity (SLEDAI-2K or BILAG), damage (SLICC/ACR/DI) and therapies were collected. Demographic and clinical characteristics were compared between lupus patients with and without GI damage to establish whether GI damage is associated with a more severe disease. RESULTS: From 3654 lupus patients, 3.7% developed GI damage. Patients in this group (group 1) were older, they had longer disease duration, and were more likely to have vasculitis, renal disease and serositis than patients without GI damage (group 2). Hospitalizations and mortality were significantly higher in group 1. Patients in group 1 had higher modified SDI (SLICC Damage Index). The presence of oral ulcers reduced the risk of developing damage in 33% of patients. CONCLUSION: Having GI damage is associated with a worse prognosis. Patients on a high dose of glucocorticoids are at higher risk of developing GI damage which reinforces the strategy of minimizing glucocorticoids. Oral ulcers appear to decrease the risk of GI damage.

Pregnancy Control in Patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Antiphospholipid Syndrome. Part 1: Infertility, Ovarian Preservation and Preconception Assessment. Consensus Document of the Spanish Society of Gynaecology and Obstetrics (SEGO), the Spanish Society of Internal Medicine (SEMI) and the Spanish Society of Rheumatology (SER). / Control del embarazo en pacientes con lupus eritematoso sistémico y síndrome antifosfolípido. Parte 1: Infertilidad, preservación ovárica y valoración preconcepcional. Documento de consenso de la Sociedad Española de Ginecología y Obstetricia (SEGO), Sociedad Española de Medicina Interna (SEMI) y Sociedad Española de Reumatología (SER).

OBJECTIVE: Pregnancy and puerperium are considered a risk situation in women with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and antiphospholipid syndrome (APS). Therefore, specialized assessment is essential both preconception and during pregnancy and the puerperium. Likewise, it is very important that different specialists in autoimmune diseases and high-risk pregnancies participate in the follow-up of these patients in a coordinated manner. The Spanish Society of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, the Spanish Society of Internal Medicine, and the Spanish Society of Rheumatology have set up a working group for the preparation of three consensus documents. METHODS: The stages of the work were: distribution of work in three groups corresponding to the three periods related to pregnancy (preconception, during pregnancy and childbirth and puerperium), identification of key areas, exhaustive review of the literature and formulation of recommendations. RESULTS: This first document includes the 48 recommendations that address aspects related to infertility, the need for and treatments for gonadal preservation and preconception assessment. CONCLUSIONS: These multidisciplinary recommendations are considered decision-making tools for clinicians involved in the care of patients with SLE/APS during pregnancy.

Recomendaciones de la Sociedad Española de Reumatología sobre síndrome antifosfolípido primario. Parte I: diagnóstico, evaluación y tratamiento / Recommendations of the Spanish Rheumatology Society for primary antiphospholipid syndrome. Part I: diagnosis, evaluation and treatment

OBJETIVO: La dificultad para el diagnóstico y la variedad de manifestaciones clínicas que pueden determinar la elección del tratamiento del síndrome antifosfolípido (SAF) primario ha impulsado a la Sociedad Española de Reumatología (SER) en la elaboración de recomendaciones basadas en la mejor evidencia posible. Estas recomendaciones pueden servir de referencia para reumatólogos y otros profesionales implicados en el manejo de pacientes con SAF. MÉTODOS: Se creó un panel formado por cuatro reumatólogos, una ginecóloga y una hematóloga, expertos en SAF, previamente seleccionados mediante una convocatoria abierta o por méritos profesionales. Las fases del trabajo fueron: identificación de las áreas claves para la elaboración del documento, análisis y síntesis de la evidencia científica (utilizando los niveles de evidencia del Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network [SIGN]) y formulación de recomendaciones a partir de esta evidencia y de técnicas de «evaluación formal» o «juicio razonado». RESULTADOS: Se han elaborado 46 recomendaciones que abordan cinco áreas principales: diagnóstico y evaluación, medidas de tromboprofilaxis primaria, tratamiento del SAF primario o tromboprofilaxis secundaria, tratamiento del SAF obstétrico y situaciones especiales. Se incluye también el papel de los nuevos anticoagulantes orales, el problema de las recurrencias o los principales factores de riesgo identificados en estos individuos. En este documento se reflejan las 21 primeras recomendaciones, referidas a las áreas de diagnóstico, evaluación y tratamiento del SAF primario. El documento contiene una tabla de recomendaciones y algoritmos de tratamiento. CONCLUSIONES: Se presentan las recomendaciones de la SER sobre SAF primario. Este documento corresponde a la parte I, relacionada con el diagnóstico, la evaluación y el tratamiento. Estas recomendaciones se consideran herramientas en la toma de decisiones para los clínicos, teniendo en consideración tanto la decisión del médico experto en SAF como la opinión compartida con el paciente. Se ha elaborado también una parte II, que aborda aspectos relacionados con el SAF obstétrico y situaciones especiales

OBJECTIVE: The difficulty in diagnosis and the spectrum of clinical manifestations that can determine the choice of treatment for primary antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) has fostered the development of recommendations by the Spanish Society of Rheumatology (SER), based on the best possible evidence. These recommendations can serve as a reference for rheumatologists and other specialists involved in the management of APS. METHODS: A panel of four rheumatologists, a gynaecologist and a haematologist with expertise in APS was created, previously selected by the SER through an open call or based on professional merits. The stages of the work were: identification of the key areas for drafting the document, analysis and synthesis of the scientific evidence (using the Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network [SIGN] levels of evidence) and formulation of recommendations based on this evidence and formal assessment or reasoned judgement techniques (consensus techniques). RESULTS: 46 recommendations were drawn up, addressing five main areas: diagnosis and evaluation, measurement of primary thromboprophylaxis, treatment for APS or secondary thromboprophylaxis, treatment for obstetric APS and special situations. These recommendations also include the role of novel oral anticoagulants, the problem of recurrences or the key risk factors identified in these subjects. This document reflects the first 21, referring to the areas of: diagnosis, evaluation and treatment of primary APS. The document provides a table of recommendations and treatment algorithms. CONCLUSIONS: An update of the SER recommendations on APS is presented. This document corresponds to part I, related to diagnosis, evaluation and treatment. These recommendations are considered tools for decision-making for clinicians, taking into consideration both the decision of the physician experienced in APS and the patient. A part II has also been prepared, which addresses aspects related to obstetric SAF and special situations

Recomendaciones de la Sociedad Española de Reumatología sobre síndrome antifosfolípido primario. Parte II: síndrome antifosfolípido obstétrico y situaciones especiales / Recommendations of the Spanish Rheumatology Society for Primary Antiphospholipid Syndrome. Part II: Obstetric Antiphospholipid Syndrome and Special Situations

OBJETIVO: La dificultad para el diagnóstico y la variedad de manifestaciones clínicas que pueden determinar la elección del tratamiento del síndrome antifosfolípido (SAF) primario ha impulsado a la Sociedad Española de Reumatología (SER) en la elaboración de recomendaciones basadas en la mejor evidencia posible. Estas recomendaciones pueden servir de referencia para reumatólogos y otros profesionales implicados en el manejo de pacientes con SAF. MÉTODOS: Se creó un panel formado por 4 reumatólogos, una ginecóloga y una hematóloga, expertos en SAF, previamente seleccionados mediante una convocatoria abierta o por méritos profesionales. Las fases del trabajo fueron: identificación de las áreas claves para la elaboración del documento, análisis y síntesis de la evidencia científica (utilizando los niveles de evidencia de SIGN, Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network) y formulación de recomendaciones a partir de esta evidencia y de técnicas de «evaluación formal» o «juicio razonado». RESULTADOS: Se han elaborado 46 recomendaciones que abordan 5áreas principales: diagnóstico y evaluación, medidas de tromboprofilaxis primaria, tratamiento del SAF o tromboprofilaxis secundaria, tratamiento del síndrome antifosfolípido obstétrico y situaciones especiales. Está incluido también el papel de los nuevos anticoagulantes orales, el problema de las recurrencias o los principales factores de riesgo identificados en estos individuos. En este documento se reflejan las últimas 25, referidas a las áreas de: SAF obstétrico y situaciones especiales. El documento contiene una tabla de recomendaciones y algoritmos de tratamiento. CONCLUSIONES: Se presentan las recomendaciones de la SER sobre SAF. Este documento corresponde a la parte 2.ª relacionada con el SAF obstétrico y las situaciones especiales. Estas recomendaciones se consideran herramientas en la toma de decisiones para los clínicos, teniendo en consideración tanto la decisión del médico experto en SAF como la opinión compartida con el paciente. Se ha elaborado también una parte I que aborda aspectos relacionados con el diagnóstico, evaluación y tratamiento

OBJECTIVE: The difficulty in diagnosis and the spectrum of clinical manifestations that can determine the choice of treatment for antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) has fostered the development of recommendations by the Spanish Society of Rheumatology (SER), based on the best possible evidence. These recommendations can serve as a reference for rheumatologists and other specialists involved in the management of APS. METHODS: A panel of 4rheumatologists, a gynaecologist and a haematologist with expertise in APS was created, previously selected by the SER through an open call or based on professional merits. The stages of the work were: identification of the key areas for the document elaboration, analysis and synthesis of the scientific evidence (using the Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network, SIGN levels of evidence) and formulation of recommendations based on this evidence and formal assessment or reasoned judgement techniques (consensus techniques). RESULTS: Forty-six recommendations were drawn up, addressing 5 main areas: diagnosis and evaluation, measurement of primary thromboprophylaxis, treatment for APS or secondary thromboprophylaxis, treatment for obstetric APS and special situations. These recommendations also include the role of novel oral anticoagulants, the problem of recurrences or the key risk factors identified in these subjects. This document reflects the last 25, referring to the areas of: obstetric APS and special situations. The document provides a table of recommendations and treatment algorithms. CONCLUSIONS: Update of SER recommendations on APS is presented. This document corresponds to part II, related to obstetric SAF and special situations. These recommendations are considered tools for decision-making for clinicians, taking into consideration both the decision of the physician experienced in APS and the patient. A part I has also been prepared, which addresses aspects related to diagnosis, evaluation and treatment

Recommendations of the Spanish Rheumatology Society for Primary Antiphospholipid Syndrome. Part I: Diagnosis, Evaluation and Treatment. / Recomendaciones de la Sociedad Española de Reumatología sobre síndrome antifosfolípido primario. Parte I: Diagnóstico, evaluación y tratamiento.

OBJECTIVE: The difficulty in diagnosis and the spectrum of clinical manifestations that can determine the choice of treatment for primary antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) has fostered the development of recommendations by the Spanish Society of Rheumatology (SER), based on the best possible evidence. These recommendations can serve as a reference for rheumatologists and other specialists involved in the management of APS. METHODS: A panel of four rheumatologists, a gynaecologist and a haematologist with expertise in APS was created, previously selected by the SER through an open call or based on professional merits. The stages of the work were: identification of the key areas for drafting the document, analysis and synthesis of the scientific evidence (using the Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network [SIGN] levels of evidence) and formulation of recommendations based on this evidence and formal assessment or reasoned judgement techniques (consensus techniques). RESULTS: 46 recommendations were drawn up, addressing five main areas: diagnosis and evaluation, measurement of primary thromboprophylaxis, treatment for APS or secondary thromboprophylaxis, treatment for obstetric APS and special situations. These recommendations also include the role of novel oral anticoagulants, the problem of recurrences or the key risk factors identified in these subjects. This document reflects the first 21, referring to the areas of: diagnosis, evaluation and treatment of primary APS. The document provides a table of recommendations and treatment algorithms. CONCLUSIONS: An update of the SER recommendations on APS is presented. This document corresponds to partI, related to diagnosis, evaluation and treatment. These recommendations are considered tools for decision-making for clinicians, taking into consideration both the decision of the physician experienced in APS and the patient. A partII has also been prepared, which addresses aspects related to obstetric SAF and special situations.

Genetic variation associated with cardiovascular risk in autoimmune diseases.

Autoimmune diseases have a higher prevalence of cardiovascular events compared to the general population. The objective of this study was to investigate the genetic basis of cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk in autoimmunity. We analyzed genome-wide genotyping data from 6,485 patients from six autoimmune diseases that are associated with a high socio-economic impact. First, for each disease, we tested the association of established CVD risk loci. Second, we analyzed the association of autoimmune disease susceptibility loci with CVD. Finally, to identify genetic patterns associated with CVD risk, we applied the cross-phenotype meta-analysis approach (CPMA) on the genome-wide data. A total of 17 established CVD risk loci were significantly associated with CVD in the autoimmune patient cohorts. From these, four loci were found to have significantly different genetic effects across autoimmune diseases. Six autoimmune susceptibility loci were also found to be associated with CVD risk. Genome-wide CPMA analysis identified 10 genetic clusters strongly associated with CVD risk across all autoimmune diseases. Two of these clusters are highly enriched in pathways previously associated with autoimmune disease etiology (TNFα and IFNγ cytokine pathways). The results of this study support the presence of specific genetic variation associated with the increase of CVD risk observed in autoimmunity.

Trombocitopenia como factor de riesgo trombótico en pacientes con anticuerpos antifosfolipídicos sin criterios de enfermedad / Thrombocytopenia as a thrombotic risk factor in patients with antiphospholipid antibodies without disease criteria

Introducción: El síndrome antifosfolípido (SAF) es un trastorno inmunitario adquirido, definido por la presencia de trombosis (arterial y/o venosa) y/o morbilidad del embarazo junto con la presencia de anticuerpos antifosfolipídicos (aFL) positivos. Existe una relación clara entre los aFL y algunas manifestaciones no incluidas en los criterios clínicos, entre ellas, las hematológicas. Objetivos: a) estudiar la probabilidad de desarrollar SAF clínico en pacientes con aFL positivos y trombocitopenia; b) identificar posibles factores de riesgo para trombosis, y c) estudiar la asociación entre trombocitopenia y aFL. Métodos: Estudio retrospectivo de 138 pacientes con aFL positivos sin cumplir criterios clínicos de SAF. Se definió trombocitopenia como una cifra de plaquetas≤100.000/μl. Se excluyeron los pacientes con otras causas de trombocitopenia. Resultados: Diecisiete de los 138 (12%) pacientes incluidos en el estudio presentaban trombocitopenia. La cifra media de plaquetas fue de 60.000/μl. El riesgo para desarrollar trombocitopenia fue mayor en los pacientes fumadores (OR 2,8; p=0,044), en aquellos con anticoagulante lúpico (OR 13,5; p<0,001) y en los que tenían una mayor carga de aFL (OR 50,8; p<0,001). Tras un seguimiento medio de 146±60,3 meses, 5 pacientes con trombocitopenia (29,4%) desarrollaron trombosis. Conclusiones: En nuestra serie, la incidencia de trombocitopenia es del 12%. Los pacientes con aFL positivos que desarrollan trombocitopenia tienen un riesgo potencial de desarrollar trombosis. El tabaco podría ser un factor de riesgo para trombocitopenia. La carga de autoanticuerpos es un factor de riesgo para el desarrollo de trombocitopenia (AU)

Introduction: The antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is an acquired immune disorder defined by the presence of thrombosis (arterial and/or venous) and/or pregnancy morbidity along with the presence of positive antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL). There is a clear relationship between aPL and some events not included in the clinical criteria, including haematologic. Objectives: a) to study the probability of developing clinical APS in patients with positive aPL and thrombopenia; b) to identify potential risk factors for thrombosis, and c) to study the association between thrombocytopenia and aPL. Methods: A retrospective study of 138 patients with positive aPL without fulfilling clinical criteria for APS. Thrombocytopenia was defined as a platelet count≤100,000/μl. Patients with other causes of thrombocytopenia were excluded. Results: Seventeen of the 138 (12%) patients in the study had thrombocytopenia. The mean platelet count was 60,000/μl. The risk of developing thrombocytopenia was higher in smokers (OR 2.8; P=.044), in those with lupus anticoagulant (OR 13.5; P<.001) and those with higher burden of aPL (OR 50.8; P<.001). After a mean follow-up of 146±60.3 months, 5 patients with thrombocytopenia (29.4%) developed thrombosis. Conclusions: In our series, the incidence of thrombocytopenia is 12%. aPL-positive patients who develop thrombocytopenia have a potential risk of developing thrombosis. Tobacco could be a risk factor for thrombocytopenia. Autoantibodies load is a risk factor for the development of thrombocytopenia (AU)

Fibromyalgia prevalence and associated factors in primary Sjögren's syndrome patients in a large cohort from the Spanish Society of Rheumatology registry (SJOGRENSER).

OBJECTIVES: To assess fibromyalgia (FM) prevalence in a large cohort of primary Sjögren's syndrome patients (pSS) from a National Database. METHODS: Data included in the national retrospective register of pSS patients of the Spanish Society of Rheumatology (SJOGRENSER) were analysed. RESULTS: 437 pSS patients were included and a 14.6% of FM prevalence was found. FM-pSS patients significantly showed more constitutional, fatigue and arthralgia symptoms, splenomegaly, genital, skin and ear involvement and dyslipidaemia (p<0.05), as well as higher ESSPRI and SSDAI scores (p<0.01). Several symptomatic treatments were more frequently used in FM-pSS patients. No differences were observed in laboratory markers, imaging techniques or histologic inflammatory findings. Patients with FM showed statistically more fatigue than pSS without FM. In the multivariate logistic regression analysis several features were associated to pSS-FM patients. CONCLUSIONS: We show data on a reliable prevalence of FM in pSS patients and its multiple associated factors along with the presence of higher disease activity scores than patients who did not show FM. The presence of fatigue, arthralgia, constitutional symptoms and dyslipidaemia were more likely to coexist in pSS-FM patients.

Thrombocytopenia as a thrombotic risk factor in patients with antiphospholipid antibodies without disease criteria. / Trombocitopenia como factor de riesgo trombótico en pacientes con anticuerpos antifosfolipídicos sin criterios de enfermedad.

INTRODUCTION: The antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is an acquired immune disorder defined by the presence of thrombosis (arterial and/or venous) and/or pregnancy morbidity along with the presence of positive antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL). There is a clear relationship between aPL and some events not included in the clinical criteria, including haematologic. OBJECTIVES: a) to study the probability of developing clinical APS in patients with positive aPL and thrombopenia; b) to identify potential risk factors for thrombosis, and c) to study the association between thrombocytopenia and aPL. METHODS: A retrospective study of 138 patients with positive aPL without fulfilling clinical criteria for APS. Thrombocytopenia was defined as a platelet count≤100,000/µl. Patients with other causes of thrombocytopenia were excluded. RESULTS: Seventeen of the 138 (12%) patients in the study had thrombocytopenia. The mean platelet count was 60,000/µl. The risk of developing thrombocytopenia was higher in smokers (OR 2.8; P=.044), in those with lupus anticoagulant (OR 13.5; P<.001) and those with higher burden of aPL (OR 50.8; P<.001). After a mean follow-up of 146±60.3 months, 5 patients with thrombocytopenia (29.4%) developed thrombosis. CONCLUSIONS: In our series, the incidence of thrombocytopenia is 12%. aPL-positive patients who develop thrombocytopenia have a potential risk of developing thrombosis. Tobacco could be a risk factor for thrombocytopenia. Autoantibodies load is a risk factor for the development of thrombocytopenia.

Actualización 2014 del Documento de Consenso de la Sociedad Española de Reumatología sobre el uso de terapias biológicas en la artritis reumatoide / 2014 update of the Consensus Statement of the Spanish Society of Rheumatology on the use of biological therapies in rheumatoid arthritis

Objetivo. Establecer recomendaciones para el manejo de pacientes con artritis reumatoide (AR) centrado en el papel de los fármacos antirreumáticos modificadores de enfermedad (FAME) sintéticos y biológicos disponibles, que sirvan de referencia para todos los profesionales implicados en la atención de estos pacientes. Métodos. Las recomendaciones se consensuaron a través de un panel de 14 expertos previamente seleccionados por la Sociedad Española de Reumatología (SER). Se recogió la evidencia disponible mediante la actualización de las 3 revisiones sistemáticas (RS) que se utilizaron para las recomendaciones EULAR 2013, a las que se añadió una nueva RS para dar respuesta a una pregunta adicional. Todas fueron realizadas por miembros del grupo de revisores de la SER. La clasificación del nivel de la evidencia y del grado de la recomendación se realizó utilizando el sistema del Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine de Oxford. Se utilizó la metodología Delphi para evaluar el grado de acuerdo entre los panelistas para cada recomendación. Resultados. Se emiten un total de 13 recomendaciones sobre el manejo terapéutico de pacientes con AR del adulto. El objetivo terapéutico debe ser tratar al paciente en fases precoces de la enfermedad, con el objetivo de la remisión clínica, teniendo un papel central el metotrexato como FAME sintético de referencia. Se actualizan las indicaciones de los FAME biológicos disponibles, se enfatiza la importancia de los factores pronósticos y se incide en el concepto de optimización de biológicos. Conclusiones. Se presenta la quinta actualización de las recomendaciones SER para el manejo de la AR con FAME sintéticos y biológicos (AU)

Objective. To establish recommendations for the management of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) to serve as a reference for all health professionals involved in the care of these patients, and focusing on the role of available synthetic and biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). Methods. Consensual recommendations were agreed on by a panel of 14 experts selected by the Spanish Society of Rheumatology (SER). The available scientific evidence was collected by updating three systematic reviews (SR) used for the EULAR 2013 recommendations. A new SR was added to answer an additional question. The literature review of the scientific evidence was made by the SER reviewer's group. The level of evidence and the degree of recommendation was classified according to the Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine system. A Delphi panel was used to evaluate the level of agreement between panellists (strength of recommendation). Results. Thirteen recommendations for the management of adult RA were emitted. The therapeutic objective should be to treat patients in the early phases of the disease with the aim of achieving clinical remission, with methotrexate playing a central role in the therapeutic strategy of RA as the reference synthetic DMARD. Indications for biologic DMARDs were updated and the concept of the optimization of biologicals was introduced. Conclusions. We present the fifth update of the SER recommendations for the management of RA with synthetic and biologic DMARDs (AU)

2014 update of the Consensus Statement of the Spanish Society of Rheumatology on the use of biological therapies in rheumatoid arthritis.

OBJECTIVE: To establish recommendations for the management of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) to serve as a reference for all health professionals involved in the care of these patients, and focusing on the role of available synthetic and biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). METHODS: Consensual recommendations were agreed on by a panel of 14 experts selected by the Spanish Society of Rheumatology (SER). The available scientific evidence was collected by updating three systematic reviews (SR) used for the EULAR 2013 recommendations. A new SR was added to answer an additional question. The literature review of the scientific evidence was made by the SER reviewer's group. The level of evidence and the degree of recommendation was classified according to the Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine system. A Delphi panel was used to evaluate the level of agreement between panellists (strength of recommendation). RESULTS: Thirteen recommendations for the management of adult RA were emitted. The therapeutic objective should be to treat patients in the early phases of the disease with the aim of achieving clinical remission, with methotrexate playing a central role in the therapeutic strategy of RA as the reference synthetic DMARD. Indications for biologic DMARDs were updated and the concept of the optimization of biologicals was introduced. CONCLUSIONS: We present the fifth update of the SER recommendations for the management of RA with synthetic and biologic DMARDs.

Effect of antiplatelet/anticoagulant therapy on severe ischemic complications in patients with giant cell arteritis: a cumulative meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effect of antiplatelet/anticoagulant therapy on the occurrence of severe ischemic complications in GCA patients at diagnosis and while on treatment with corticosteroids (CS), and the risk of bleeding in these patients. METHODS: A comprehensive search of PubMed and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases was completed and supplemented by hand searching of the references of all selected articles published from 1992 through December 2012. The cumulative meta-analysis included 6 retrospective studies that provided a total of 914 GCA patients. The effect of established antiplatelet/anticoagulant therapy on the occurrence of severe ischemic complications in patients with GCA at diagnosis and on the development of new severe ischemic complications in patients with GCA after diagnosis and while on treatment with CS were evaluated; as well as the risk of bleeding in patients with GCA on concomitant treatment with CS and antiplatelet/anticoagulant therapy. RESULTS: Antiplatelet/anticoagulant therapy before the diagnosis of GCA was not associated with a protection to develop severe ischemic complications (OR: 0.661; 95% CI [0.287-1.520]; p=0.33). However, such a therapy may prevent from severe ischemic complications after the diagnosis of GCA (OR: 0.318; [0.101-0.996]; p=0.049) without increasing the risk of bleeding in patients with GCA on concomitant treatment with CS (OR: 0.658; [0.089-4.856]; p=0.682). CONCLUSIONS: Antiplatelet/anticoagulant therapy prior to the diagnosis of GCA was not associated with reduction in severe ischemic complications. However, antiplatelet/anticoagulant therapy demonstrated a marginal benefit when used together with CS therapy in patients with established GCA without associated bleeding risk.

Cytokine gene considerations in giant cell arteritis: IL10 promoter polymorphisms and a review of the literature.

Polymorphisms of cytokine genes have been investigated as susceptibility markers of giant cell arteritis (GCA). Here, we have reviewed the evidence to date and especially addressed the functional consequences of IL10 (-592C/A and -1082A/G) gene polymorphisms and their association with susceptibility to and disease phenotype in GCA. A total number of 71 patients with GCA and 124 age-matched controls were genotyped using allele-specific primers and restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis. As previous studies in GCA showed inconsistent results, a meta-analysis of the existing studies was also conducted by using both fixed and random-effects models. The levels of circulating IL10 and the production of IL10 by peripheral blood mononuclear cells after in vitro stimulation were studied by Cytometric Bead Array. Data showed no significant differences in genotype or allele frequency distribution between patients and controls. The clinical characteristics and prognosis of these patients were also unrelated to the presence of these polymorphisms. However, the meta-analysis found a significant association of IL10 -592C/A polymorphism with susceptibility to GCA (odds ratio 2.205 (95% confidence interval 1.074-4.524); p = 0.031). In both patients and age-matched controls, no differences in circulating IL10 levels or IL10 production were observed depending on the genotypes of the IL10 gene. In conclusion, although our cohort results do not support the impact of IL10 variants in susceptibility or clinical phenotype of GCA patients, the meta-analysis revealed a significant association of -592C/A polymorphism with susceptibility to GCA. In this population, no functional association was found between IL10 gene variants and IL10 production.

Phagocyte dysfunction in polymyalgia rheumatica and other age-related, chronic, inflammatory conditions.

This study was conducted to evaluate phagocyte function in patients with age-related chronic inflammatory conditions. It included 95 patients with PMR, 17 with GCA, 40 with EORA, and 25 age-matched HCs. Serum IL-8 was determined with a bead array. The chemotactic capacity, phagocytic ability, and oxidative burst activity of circulating leukocytes were determined with flow cytometry kits. Patients with active chronic inflammatory diseases showed a significant increase in circulating levels of IL-8 that remained elevated in patients with PMR or EORA, despite treatment. No correlation was found between circulating IL-8 and the migratory capacity of neutrophils. Neutrophils from patients with active EORA without stimulus and after fMLP stimuli showed a higher capacity to migrate than those of the HCs (P=0.033). The phagocytic activity of granulocytes in the patients with GCA was significantly higher than in the HCs and the patients with PMR or EORA (P<0.05). The percentage and MFI of phagocytes that produce ROIs when stimulated with Escherichia coli was significantly reduced in neutrophils and monocytes from the patients with age-restricted inflammatory conditions. We concluded that the effector functions of phagocytes, determined to be chemotaxis, phagocytosis, and oxidative burst, are deregulated in age-restricted inflammatory disorders and may have a pathogenic role.

Análisis del polimorfismo rs20541 (R130Q) del gen de la IL-13 en pacientes con enfermedades inflamatorias crónicas asociadas al envejecimiento / Analysis of the rs20541 (R130Q) polymorphism in the IL-13 gene in patients with elderly-associated chronic inflammatory diseases

Objetivo: Investigar si existe asociación del polimorfismo rs20541 (R130Q) del gen de la IL-13 con la susceptibilidad y la expresión clínica de pacientes con enfermedades inflamatorias crónicas asociadas al envejecimiento. Material y métodos: Se estudiaron 78 pacientes con arteritis de células gigantes (ACG), 174 con polimialgia reumática (PMR), 90 con artritis reumatoide de comienzo en el anciano (EORA), y 465 controles sanos de la misma zona geográfica. El polimorfismo rs20541 (R130Q) para IL-13 se evaluó mediante PCR-RFLP. Los niveles de IL-13 circulante se determinaron por ELISA. Resultados: En los pacientes con ACG se observó una mayor frecuencia del genotipo AA [2,349 (0,994- 5,554)], así como del alelo A [1,589 (1,085-2,328)] y de portadores de dicho alelo [1,656 (1,021-2,686)] (p < 0,05). No encontramos diferencias significativas entre los pacientes con PMR y EORA respecto al grupo control. Cuando comparamos las diferentes patologías entre sí, tampoco encontramos diferencias significativas entre ellas. En los pacientes con ACG las diferencias en el genotipo se asociaron con el pronóstico de la enfermedad. En pacientes con PMR, el genotipo AA se asoció con niveles más elevados de IL-13 circulante comparado con el GA. Sin embargo, esta asociación no se apreció para los controles o las otras enfermedades. Conclusiones: La ACG es más frecuente en individuos portadores del polimorfismo rs20541 (R130Q) del gen de la IL13. La utilidad de este gen para predecir el pronóstico en ACG debe ser confirmada en estudios con mayor número de pacientes (AU)

Objective: To investigate whether there is association between the rs20541 (R130Q) polymorphism in the IL-13 gene with disease susceptibility and clinical subsets in patients with elderly-associated inflammatory chronic diseases. Material and methods: 78 patients with giant cell arteritis (GCA), 174 with polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR), 90 elderly-onset rheumatoid arthritis (EORA), and 465 healthy controls from the same geographic area were studied. The rs20541 (R130Q) polymorphism in the IL-13 gene was evaluated by PCR-RFLP. Circulating levels of IL-13 were measured by ELISA. Results: A higher frequency of the AA genotype [2.349 (0.994-5.554)], as well as the allele A [1.589 (1.085- 2.328] and the A carriers [1.656 (1.021-2.686)] (p < 0.05) was observed in the GCA patients. No significant differences were observed in the PMR and EORA patients as compared with the healthy controls. Neither difference was observed among the different disease groups studied. In GCA patients, differences in the genotype were associated with a worse prognosis. In PMR patients, the AA genotype was associated with higher levels of serum IL-13 than the GA one. However, such an association was not detected for controls and the other disease groups. Conclusions: GCA is more frequent in carriers of the rs20541 (R130Q) polymorphism in the IL-13 gene. The utility of this polymorphism to predict the GCA prognosis must be confirmed in studies with a higher number of patients (AU)

Analysis of the rs20541 (R130Q) polymorphism in the IL-13 gene in patients with elderly-associated chronic inflammatory diseases.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate whether there is association between the rs20541 (R130Q) polymorphism in the IL-13 gene with disease susceptibility and clinical subsets in patients with elderly-associated inflammatory chronic diseases. MATERIAL AND METHODS: 78 patients with giant cell arteritis (GCA), 174 with polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR), 90 elderly-onset rheumatoid arthritis (EORA), and 465 healthy controls from the same geographic area were studied. The rs20541 (R130Q) polymorphism in the IL-13 gene was evaluated by PCR-RFLP. Circulating levels of IL-13 were measured by ELISA. RESULTS: A higher frequency of the AA genotype [2.349 (0.994-5.554)], as well as the allele A [1.589 (1.085-2.328] and the A carriers [1.656 (1.021-2.686)] (p<0.05) was observed in the GCA patients. No significant differences were observed in the PMR and EORA patients as compared with the healthy controls. Neither difference was observed among the different disease groups studied. In GCA patients, differences in the genotype were associated with a worse prognosis. In PMR patients, the AA genotype was associated with higher levels of serum IL-13 than the GA one. However, such an association was not detected for controls and the other disease groups. CONCLUSIONS: GCA is more frequent in carriers of the rs20541 (R130Q) polymorphism in the IL-13 gene. The utility of this polymorphism to predict the GCA prognosis must be confirmed in studies with a higher number of patients.

Aging is associated with circulating cytokine dysregulation.

PURPOSE: Aging is accompanied by a progressive increase in pro-inflammatory cytokine status. However, little is known about the development of age-dependent modifications in other circulating cytokines. The aim of this study was to investigate in vivo the influence of age on circulating cytokine production in healthy subjects (HC). METHODS: Circulating cytokines were measured by CBA and ELISA in 73 HC. Intracellular cytokine production was assessed in CD3+ and CD14+ cells by flow cytometry. Production of cytokines in cell culture supernatants was also studied after polyclonal stimulation. RESULTS: Subjects were divided into three different groups according to age: 28 young HC (<30 years, 26.2 ± 2.4), 24 middle age HC (30-60 years, 44.7 ± 8.4) and 21 elderly HC (>60 years, 70.6 ± 7.9). Age was positively correlated with the circulating levels of IL-12p70, IL-1ß, TNFα, IL-6, and IL-10. Age had a negative correlation with circulating levels of IL-17. Besides, age was positively correlated with spontaneous intracellular expression of proinflammatory cytokines in circulating monocytes. No correlation was found with other intracellular cytokine expression or with the production of cytokines in cell culture supernatants after in vitro stimulation. Gender had a marginal effect on the circulating cytokine profile. CONCLUSION: Aging has a significant impact on the production of circulating cytokines in healthy individuals. The circulating cytokine milieu may contribute to the development of age-restricted conditions.