II Brazilian Society of Rheumatology consensus for lupus nephritis diagnosis and treatment.

OBJECTIVE: To develop the second evidence-based Brazilian Society of Rheumatology consensus for diagnosis and treatment of lupus nephritis (LN). METHODS: Two methodologists and 20 rheumatologists from Lupus Comittee of Brazilian Society of Rheumatology participate in the development of this guideline. Fourteen PICO questions were defined and a systematic review was performed. Eligible randomized controlled trials were analyzed regarding complete renal remission, partial renal remission, serum creatinine, proteinuria, serum creatinine doubling, progression to end-stage renal disease, renal relapse, and severe adverse events (infections and mortality). The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach was used to develop these recommendations. Recommendations required ≥82% of agreement among the voting members and were classified as strongly in favor, weakly in favor, conditional, weakly against or strongly against a particular intervention. Other aspects of LN management (diagnosis, general principles of treatment, treatment of comorbidities and refractory cases) were evaluated through literature review and expert opinion. RESULTS: All SLE patients should undergo creatinine and urinalysis tests to assess renal involvement. Kidney biopsy is considered the gold standard for diagnosing LN but, if it is not available or there is a contraindication to the procedure, therapeutic decisions should be based on clinical and laboratory parameters. Fourteen recommendations were developed. Target Renal response (TRR) was defined as improvement or maintenance of renal function (±10% at baseline of treatment) combined with a decrease in 24-h proteinuria or 24-h UPCR of 25% at 3 months, a decrease of 50% at 6 months, and proteinuria < 0.8 g/24 h at 12 months. Hydroxychloroquine should be prescribed to all SLE patients, except in cases of contraindication. Glucocorticoids should be used at the lowest dose and for the minimal necessary period. In class III or IV (±V), mycophenolate (MMF), cyclophosphamide, MMF plus tacrolimus (TAC), MMF plus belimumab or TAC can be used as induction therapy. For maintenance therapy, MMF or azathioprine (AZA) are the first choice and TAC or cyclosporin or leflunomide can be used in patients who cannot use MMF or AZA. Rituximab can be prescribed in cases of refractory disease. In cases of failure in achieving TRR, it is important to assess adherence, immunosuppressant dosage, adjuvant therapy, comorbidities, and consider biopsy/rebiopsy. CONCLUSION: This consensus provides evidence-based data to guide LN diagnosis and treatment, supporting the development of public and supplementary health policies in Brazil.

Characterization of the patterns of care, access, and direct cost of systemic lupus erythematosus in Brazil: findings from the Macunaíma study

Abstract Background A cost of illness (COI) study aims to evaluate the socioeconomic burden that an illness imposes on society as a whole. This study aimed to describe the resources used, patterns of care, direct cost, and loss of productivity due to systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in Brazil. Methods This 12-month, cross-sectional, COI study of patients with SLE (ACR 1997 Classification Criteria) collected data using patient interviews (questionnaires) and medical records, covering: SLE profile, resources used, morbidities, quality of life (12-Item Short Form Survey, SF-12), and loss of productivity. Patients were excluded if they were retired or on sick leave for another illness. Direct resources included health-related (consultations, tests, medications, hospitalization) or non-health-related (transportation, home adaptation, expenditure on caregivers) hospital resources. Costs were calculated using the unit value of each resource and the quantity consumed. A gamma regression model explored cost predictors for patients with SLE. Results Overall, 300 patients with SLE were included (92.3% female, mean [standard deviation (SD)] disease duration 11.8 [7.9] years), of which 100 patients (33.3%) were on SLE-related sick leave and 46 patients (15.3%) had stopped schooling. Mean (SD) travel time from home to a care facility was 4.4 (12.6) hours. Antimalarials were the most commonly used drugs (222 [74.0%]). A negative correlation was observed between SF-12 physical component and SLE Disease Activity Index (- 0.117, p = 0.042), Systemic Lupus International CollaboratingClinics/AmericanCollegeofRheumatology Damage Index (- 0.115, p = 0.046), medications/day for multiple co-morbidities (- 0.272, p < 0.001), SLE-specific drugs/day (- 0.113, p = 0.051), and lost productivity (- 0.570, p < 0.001). For the mental component, a negative correlation was observed with medications/day for multiple co-morbidities (- 0.272, p < 0.001), SLE-specific medications/day (- 0.113, p = 0.051), and missed appointments (- 0.232, p < 0.001). Mean total SLE cost was US$3,123.53/patient/year (median [interquartile range (IQR)] US$1,618.51 [$678.66, $4,601.29]). Main expenditure was medication, with a median (IQR) cost of US$910.62 ($460, $4,033.51). Mycophenolate increased costs by 3.664 times (p < 0.001), and inflammatory monitoring (erythrocyte sedimentation rate or C-reactive protein) reduced expenditure by 0.381 times (p < 0.001). Conclusion These results allowed access to care patterns, the median cost for patients with SLE in Brazil, and the differences across regions driven by biological, social, and behavioral factors. The cost of SLE provides an updated setting to support the decision-making process across the country.

Proteinuria and serum creatinine after 12 months of treatment for lupus nephritis as predictors of long-term renal outcome: a case-control study

Abstract Background: Lupus nephritis (LN) is a major source of morbidity and mortality in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), with 10-25% of patients progressing to end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Objective: This study aims to elucidate the predictive capabilities of 24-h proteinuria (24PTU) and serum creatinine (sCr) after 12 months of treatment with respect to long-term renal outcomes in LN in a single-center cohort of LN patients. Methods: A retrospective analysis was performed on 214 patients diagnosed with LN followed in our center. Values of 24PTU and sCr were assessed at baseline and after 3, 6 and 12 months, and after 5 years and/or the last evaluation. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) was defined as an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 for 3 months or longer. End-stage renal disease (ESRD) was defined as the need for permanent dialysis. Receiver operating characteristics curves (ROC) were used to test the best cut-off value of 24PTU and sCr at 12 months who predict bad long-term renal outcomes. Results: The mean follow-up period was 11.2 ± 7.2 years. The best cut-off values for 24PTU and sCr as predictor of CKD were, respectively, 0.9 g/24 h and 0.9 mg/dL. ROC curve for 24PTU had a slightly lower performance than ROC curve for sCr as predictor for CKD (PTU AUC = 0.68; sCr AUC = 0.70), but sensitivity and specificity were better for 24PTU (24PTU: sensitivity = 63.5%, specificity = 71.2%; sCr: sensitivity = 54.8%, specificity = 75.3%). When the outcome was ESRD the best cut-off points were 0.9 g/24hs and 1.3 mg/dL for 24PTU and sCr, respectively, and the curve performance was better for 24PTU (PTU AUC = 0.72; sCr AUC = 0.61). Conclusions: In this ethnically diverse population with LN followed for a long time (> 10 years), levels of 24PTU > 0.9/day at 12 months was a good predictor of bad long-term renal outcome. The serum creatinine > 0.9 mg/dL and > 1.3 mg/dL at 12 months were also good predictors of CKD and ESRD, respectively. Patients with 24PTU < 0.9 g/day and sCr < 1.3 mg/dL at 12 months are not likely to develop ESRD because of the high negative predictive values (NPV) (93.2% and 82%). 24PTU and sCr are relevant as components for a treat-to-target strategy for LN treatment, since their high NPV corroborates their importance as good predictors of long-term renal outcome.

Recommendations of the Brazilian Society of Rheumatology for diagnosis and treatment of Chikungunya fever. Part 1 - Diagnosis and special situations.

Chikungunya fever has become a relevant public health problem in countries where epidemics occur. Until 2013, only imported cases occurred in the Americas, but in October of that year, the first cases were reported in Saint Marin island in the Caribbean. The first autochthonous cases were confirmed in Brazil in September 2014; until epidemiological week 37 of 2016, 236,287 probable cases of infection with Chikungunya virus had been registered, 116,523 of which had serological confirmation. Environmental changes caused by humans, disorderly urban growth and an ever-increasing number of international travelers were described as the factors responsible for the emergence of large-scale epidemics. Clinically characterized by fever and joint pain in the acute stage, approximately half of patients progress to the chronic stage (beyond 3 months), which is accompanied by persistent and disabling pain. The aim of the present study was to formulate recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of Chikungunya fever in Brazil. A literature review was performed in the MEDLINE, SciELO and PubMed databases to ground the decisions for recommendations. The degree of concordance among experts was established through the Delphi method, involving 2 in-person meetings and several online voting rounds. In total, 25 recommendations were formulated and divided into 3 thematic groups: (1) clinical, laboratory and imaging diagnosis; (2) special situations; and (3) treatment. The first 2 themes are presented in part 1, and treatment is presented in part 2.

Recommendations of the Brazilian Society of Rheumatology for the diagnosis and treatment of chikungunya fever. Part 2 - Treatment.

Chikungunya fever has become an important public health problem in countries where epidemics occur because half of the cases progress to chronic, persistent and debilitating arthritis. Literature data on specific therapies at the various phases of arthropathy caused by chikungunya virus (CHIKV) infection are limited, lacking quality randomized trials assessing the efficacies of different therapies. There are a few studies on the treatment of musculoskeletal manifestations of chikungunya fever, but these studies have important methodological limitations. The data currently available preclude conclusions favorable or contrary to specific therapies, or an adequate comparison between the different drugs used. The objective of this study was to develop recommendations for the treatment of chikungunya fever in Brazil. A literature review was performed via evidence-based selection of articles in the databases Medline, SciELO, PubMed and Embase and conference proceedings abstracts, in addition to expert opinions to support decision-making in defining recommendations. The Delphi method was used to define the degrees of agreement in 2 face-to-face meetings and several online voting rounds. This study is part 2 of the Recommendations of the Brazilian Society of Rheumatology (Sociedade Brasileira de Reumatologia - SBR) for the Diagnosis and Treatment of chikungunya fever and specifically addresses treatment.

Recommendations of the Brazilian Society of Rheumatology for diagnosis and treatment of Chikungunya fever. Part 1 - Diagnosis and special situations / Recomendações da Sociedade Brasileira de Reumatologia para diagnóstico e tratamento da febre chikungunya. Parte 1 - Diagnóstico e situações especiais

Abstract Chikungunya fever has become a relevant public health problem in countries where epidemics occur. Until 2013, only imported cases occurred in the Americas, but in October of that year, the first cases were reported in Saint Marin island in the Caribbean. The first autochthonous cases were confirmed in Brazil in September 2014; until epidemiological week 37 of 2016, 236,287 probable cases of infection with Chikungunya virus had been registered, 116,523 of which had serological confirmation. Environmental changes caused by humans, disorderly urban growth and an ever-increasing number of international travelers were described as the factors responsible for the emergence of large-scale epidemics. Clinically characterized by fever and joint pain in the acute stage, approximately half of patients progress to the chronic stage (beyond 3 months), which is accompanied by persistent and disabling pain. The aim of the present study was to formulate recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of Chikungunya fever in Brazil. A literature review was performed in the MEDLINE, SciELO and PubMed databases to ground the decisions for recommendations. The degree of concordance among experts was established through the Delphi method, involving 2 in-person meetings and several online voting rounds. In total, 25 recommendations were formulated and divided into 3 thematic groups: (1) clinical, laboratory and imaging diagnosis; (2) special situations; and (3) treatment. The first 2 themes are presented in part 1, and treatment is presented in part 2.

Resumo A febre chikungunya tem se tornado um importante problema de saúde pública nos países onde ocorrem as epidemias. Até 2013, as Américas haviam registrado apenas casos importados quando, em outubro desse mesmo ano, foram notificados os primeiros casos na Ilha de Saint Martin, no Caribe. No Brasil, os primeiros relatos autóctones foram confirmados em setembro de 2014 e até a semana epidemiológica 37 de 2016 já haviam sido registrados 236.287 casos prováveis de infecção pelo chikungunya vírus (CHIKV), 116.523 confirmados sorologicamente. As mudanças ambientais causadas pelo homem, o crescimento urbano desordenado e o número cada vez maior de viagens internacionais têm sido apontados como os fatores responsáveis pela reemergência de epidemias em grande escala. Caracterizada clinicamente por febre e dor articular na fase aguda, em cerca de metade dos casos existe evolução para a fase crônica (além de três meses), com dor persistente e incapacitante. O objetivo deste trabalho foi elaborar recomendações para diagnóstico e tratamento da febre chikungunya no Brasil. Para isso, foi feita revisão da literatura nas bases de dados Medline, SciELO e PubMed, para dar apoio às decisões tomadas para definir as recomendações. Para a definição do grau de concordância foi feita uma metodologia Delphi, em duas reuniões presenciais e várias rodadas de votação on line. Foram geradas 25 recomendações, divididas em três grupos temáticos: (1) diagnóstico clínico, laboratorial e por imagem; (2) situações especiais e (3) tratamento. Na primeira parte estão os dois primeiros temas e o tratamento na segunda.

Recommendations of the Brazilian Society of Rheumatology for the diagnosis and treatment of chikungunya fever. Part 2 - Treatment / Recomendações da Sociedade Brasileira de Reumatologia para diagnóstico e tratamento da febre chikungunya. Parte 2 - Tratamento

Abstract Chikungunya fever has become an important public health problem in countries where epidemics occur because half of the cases progress to chronic, persistent and debilitating arthritis. Literature data on specific therapies at the various phases of arthropathy caused by chikungunya virus (CHIKV) infection are limited, lacking quality randomized trials assessing the efficacies of different therapies. There are a few studies on the treatment of musculoskeletal manifestations of chikungunya fever, but these studies have important methodological limitations. The data currently available preclude conclusions favorable or contrary to specific therapies, or an adequate comparison between the different drugs used. The objective of this study was to develop recommendations for the treatment of chikungunya fever in Brazil. A literature review was performed via evidence-based selection of articles in the databases Medline, SciELO, PubMed and Embase and conference proceedings abstracts, in addition to expert opinions to support decision-making in defining recommendations. The Delphi method was used to define the degrees of agreement in 2 face-to-face meetings and several online voting rounds. This study is part 2 of the Recommendations of the Brazilian Society of Rheumatology (Sociedade Brasileira de Reumatologia - SBR) for the Diagnosis and Treatment of chikungunya fever and specifically addresses treatment.

Resumo A febre chikungunya tem se tornado um importante problema de saúde pública nos países onde ocorrem as epidemias, visto que metade dos casos evolui com artrite crônica, persistente e incapacitante. Os dados na literatura sobre terapêuticas específicas nas diversas fases da artropatia ocasionada pela infecção pelo vírus chikungunya (CHIKV) são limitados, não existem estudos randomizados de qualidade que avaliem a eficácia das diferentes terapias. Há algumas poucas publicações sobre o tratamento das manifestações musculoesqueléticas da febre chikungunya, porém com importantes limitações metodológicas. Os dados atualmente disponíveis não permitem conclusões favoráveis ou contrárias a terapêuticas específicas, bem como uma adequada avaliação quanto à superioridade entre as diferentes medicações empregadas. O objetivo deste trabalho foi elaborar recomendações para o tratamento da febre chikungunya no Brasil. Foi feita uma revisão da literatura com seleção de artigos baseados em evidência, nas bases de dados Medline, SciELO, PubMed e Embase e de resumos de anais de congressos, além da opinião dos especialistas para dar apoio às decisões tomadas para definir as recomendações. Para a definição do grau de concordância foi feita uma metodologia Delphi, em duas reuniões presenciais e várias rodadas de votação on line. Este artigo refere-se à parte 2 das Recomendações da Sociedade Brasileira de Reumatologia para Diagnóstico e Tratamento da Febre Chikungunya, que trata especificamente do tratamento.

Metabolic syndrome in patients with rheumatoid arthritis followed at a University Hospital in Northeastern Brazil.

INTRODUCTION: Patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are 30-60% more likely to develop cardiovascular disease (CV) than the general population. Metabolic syndrome (MS), defined by a number of cardiovascular risk factors, confers a greater risk of CVdisease and diabetes. The association of MS with RA is not yet fully understood and its prevalence varies from 19 to 63% across studies. OBJECTIVES: To assess the prevalence of MS in a population of RA patients followed in a hospital in Northeastern Brazil and analyze associations of demographic and clinical factors with MS. METHODS: Outpatients with RA were evaluated in a cross-sectional study regarding demographic, clinical, laboratory and anthropometric data. The criteria for defining MS were those adopted by NCEPIII (2005) and IDF (2006). RESULTS: 110 patients with RA were studied; 97.3% were female, with a mean age of 55.5 years (SD=12.9) and duration of illness of 11.2 years (SD=7.3). The MS prevalence from NCEPIII (2005) and IDF (2005) were, respectively, 50% and 53.4%. Advanced age (57.9±11.9 versus 52.9±13.5; p=0.04) and smoking load >20 packs/year (29% versus 9%, p=0.008) were associated with MS. The major components of the metabolic syndrome were abdominal obesity (98.1%), hypertension (80%) and low HDL cholesterol (72.2%). CONCLUSIONS: RA patients in a tertiary center in Northeastern Brazil showed high prevalence of MS. It is worth noting that almost all patients had MS and abdominal obesity, which has important practical implications. In addition to the components of MS, age and smoking were associated with this syndrome.

Metabolic syndrome in patients with rheumatoid arthritis followed at a University Hospital in Northeastern Brazil / Síndrome metabólica em pacientes com diagnóstico de artrite reumatoide acompanhados em um Hospital Universitário do Nordeste brasileiro

ABSTRACT Introduction: Patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are 30-60% more likely to develop cardiovascular disease (CV) than the general population. Metabolic syndrome (MS), defined by a number of cardiovascular risk factors, confers a greater risk of CVdisease and diabetes. The association of MS with RA is not yet fully understood and its prevalence varies from 19-63% across studies. Objectives: To assess the prevalence of MS in a population of RA patients followed in a hospital in Northeastern Brazil and analyze associations of demographic and clinical factors with MS. Methods: Outpatients with RA were evaluated in a cross-sectional study regarding demographic, clinical, laboratory and anthropometric data. The criteria for defining MS were those adopted by NCEPIII (2005) and IDF (2006). Results: 110 patients with RA were studied; 97.3% were female, with a mean age of 55.5 years (SD = 12.9) and duration of illness of 11.2 years (SD = 7.3). The MS prevalence from NCEPIII (2005) and IDF (2005) were, respectively, 50% and 53.4%. Advanced age (57.9 ± 11.9 versus 52.9 ± 13.5; p = 0.04) and smoking load> 20 packs/year (29% versus 9%, p = 0.008) were associated with MS. The major components of the metabolic syndrome were abdominal obesity (98.1%), hypertension (80%) and low HDL cholesterol (72.2%). Conclusions: RA patients in a tertiary center in Northeastern Brazil showed high prevalence of MS. It is worth noting that almost all patients had MS and abdominal obesity, which has important practical implications. In addition to the components of MS, age and smoking were associated with this syndrome.

RESUMO Introdução: Pacientes com artrite reumatoide (AR) têm 30 a 60% mais chances de desenvolver doenças cardiovasculares (DCV) do que a população geral. A síndrome metabólica (SM), definida por um conjunto de fatores de risco cardiovasculares, confere maior risco de DCV e diabete. A associação da SM com AR ainda não está totalmente esclarecida e sua prevalência varia de 19 a 63% entre os estudos. Objetivos: Avaliar a prevalência de SM numa população de pacientes com AR acompanhada num hospital do Nordeste brasileiro e analisar associações de fatores demográficos e clínicos com SM. Pacientes ambulatoriais com AR foram transversalmente avaliados com relação a dados demográficos, clínicos, laboratoriais e antropométricos. Os critérios para definir SM foram os adotados pelo NCEPIII (2005) e IDF (2006). Resultados: Foram estudados 110 pacientes com AR, 97,3% mulheres com média de 55,5 anos (DP = 12,9) e duração da doença de 11,2 anos (DP = 7,3). As prevalências de SM do NCEPIII (2005) e IDF (2005) foram, respectivamente, 50% e 53,4%. Idade avançada (57,9 ± 11,9 versus 52,9 ± 13,5; p = 0,04) e carga tabágica > 20 maços ano (29% versus 9%; p = 0,008) estiveram associadas com SM. Os principais componentes da SM foram obesidade abdominal (98,1%), hipertensão arterial (80%) e HDL baixo (72,2%). Conclusões: Pacientes com AR de um serviço terciário do Nordeste brasileiro apresentaram alta prevalência de SM. Chama atenção a quase totalidade dos pacientes com SM e obesidade abdominal, o que traz implicações práticas importantes. Além dos componentes de SM, idade e tabagismo se mostrarem associados com SM.

Prevalence of metabolic syndrome in a cohort of systemic lupus erythematosus patients from Northeastern Brazil: association with disease activity, nephritis, smoking, and age.

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), an autoimmune inflammatory disease, is associated with an increased prevalence of accelerated atherosclerosis and cardiovascular events. Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a set of cardiovascular risk factors in SLE patients, which may lead to a proinflammatory condition and increased morbidity and mortality. The objective of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of MetS in a cohort of SLE patients versus healthy controls, and to analyze the association of clinical and demographic factors. SLE patients (n = 146) treated at a Northeast Brazilian university hospital were evaluated with regard to demographic, clinical, laboratory, and anthropometric parameters and compared to controls (n = 101). MetS was diagnosed according to the definition of 2005 NCEP/ATP III. The average age of SLE patients was 41.7 ± 12.5 years, and 91.8 % were female. MetS was significantly more prevalent in SLE patients (45.2 %) than in controls (32.7 %; p = 0.04). The MetS components such as hypertension, diabetes, and hypertriglyceridemia were significantly more prevalent in SLE. In the univariate analysis, MetS in SLE patients was associated with age, disease duration, Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics/American College of Rheumatology damage index, smoking, menopause, nephritis, cyclophosphamide use, prednisone dose, and chloroquine use, which appeared to have a protective effect. In the logistic regression analysis, age, disease activity, nephritis, and smoking were statistically significant. The prevalence of MetS observed in our cohort of SLE patients from Northeastern Brazil is higher than controls. MetS components should be routinely investigated to minimize the occurrence of MetS and associated cardiovascular morbidity and mortality.

Correlação dos índices de atividade da artrite reumatoide (Disease Activity Score 28 medidos com VHS, PCR, Simplified Disease Activity Index e Clinical Disease Activity Index) e concordância dos estados de atividade da doença com vários pontos de corte numa população do nordeste brasileiro / Correlation of rheumatoid arthritis activity indexes (Disease Activity Score 28 measured with ESR and CRP, Simplified Disease Activity Index and Clinical Disease Activity Index) and agreement of disease activity states with various cut-off points in a Northeastern Brazilian population

Resumo Introdução: O Disease Activity Score 28 (DAS28) e versões têm sido usados para medir atividade da artrite reumatoide (AR), mas não existe consenso sobre qual é o melhor. Objetivos: Determinar a correlação entre os índices (DAS28 VHS, DAS28 PCR, SDAI e CDAI) e avaliar a concordância dos estratos de atividade com o uso de diferentes pontos de corte. Métodos: Pacientes com artrite reumatoide foram avaliados transversalmente com coleta de dados para cálculo do DAS28 (VHS e PCR), SDAI e CDAI, com o uso de pontos de cortes diferentes para definição de remissão, atividade leve, moderada e alta. Correlações de Pearson foram calculadas para medidas contínuas e concordância (teste de kappa) para os estratos (remissão, atividade leve, moderada e alta). Resultados: De 111 pacientes incluídos, 108 foram mulheres, média de 55,6 anos, tempo de doença de 11 anos. DAS28 (VHS) foi significantemente maior do que DAS28 (PCR) (4 vs. 3,5; p < 0,001) e os valores permaneceram maiores após estratificação por idade, sexo, tempo doença, fator reumatoide e HAQ. Correlações entre índices variaram de 0,84 a 0,99, com melhor correlação entre SDAI e CDAI. Concordâncias entre estratos de atividade variaram de 46,8% a 95,8%. DAS28 (PCR) com ponto de corte para remissão de 2,3 subestimou atividade da doença em 45,8% quando comparado com DAS28 (VHS). SDAI e CDAI apresentaram concordância de 95,8%. Os quatro índices mostraram associação com tempo de doença e HAQ. Conclusões: Embora os índices de atividade apresentem boa correlação, mostram discrepâncias nos estratos de atividade. Tornam-se necessários mais estudos para definir melhor índice e melhores pontos de corte.

Abstract Introduction: The Disease Activity Score 28 (DAS28) and its versions have been used to measure rheumatoid arthritis activity, but there is no consensus about which one is the best. Objectives: Determine the correlation among indexes (DAS28 ESR, DAS28 CRP, SDAI and CDAI) and evaluate agreement of activity strata using different cut-off points. Methods: Rheumatoid arthritis patients were cross-sectionally evaluated with data collection to calculate the DAS28 (ESR and CRP), SDAI and CDAI, using different cut-offs for defining remission, mild, moderate and high activity. Pearson correlations were calculated for continuous measures and agreement (kappa test) for the strata (remission, mild, moderate and high activity). Results: Of 111 patients included, 108 were women, age 55.6 years, 11-year disease duration. DAS28 (ESR) was significantly higher than DAS28 (CRP) (4.0 vs. 3.5; p < 0.001) and the values remained higher after stratification by age, gender, disease duration, rheumatoid factor and HAQ. Correlations among indexes ranged from 0.84 to 0.99, with better correlation between SDAI and CDAI. Agreements among activity strata ranged from 46.8% to 95.8%. DAS28 (CRP) with cut-off point for the remission of 2.3 underestimated disease activity by 45.8% compared with DAS28 (ESR). SDAI and CDAI showed agreement of 95.8%. The four indexes were associated with disease duration and HAQ. Conclusions: Although the activity indexes show good correlation, they show discrepancies in activity strata, thus requiring more researches to define a better index and better cut-off points.

Correlation of rheumatoid arthritis activity indexes (Disease Activity Score 28 measured with ESR and CRP, Simplified Disease Activity Index and Clinical Disease Activity Index) and agreement of disease activity states with various cut-off points in a Northeastern Brazilian population.

INTRODUCTION: The Disease Activity Score 28 (DAS28) and its versions have been used to measure rheumatoid arthritis (RA) activity, but there is no consensus about which one is the best. OBJECTIVES: Determine the correlation among indexes (DAS28 ESR, DAS28 CRP, SDAI and CDAI) and evaluate agreement of activity strata using different cutoff points. METHODS: Rheumatoid arthritis patients were cross-sectionally evaluated with data collection to calculate the DAS28 (ESR and CRP), SDAI and CDAI, using different cut-offs for defining remission, mild, moderate and high activity. Pearson correlations were calculated for continuous measures and agreement (kappa test) for the strata (remission, mild, moderate and high activity). RESULTS: Of 111 patients included, 108 were women, age 55.6 years, 11-year disease duration. DAS28 (ESR) was significantly higher than DAS28 (CRP) (4.0 vs. 3.5; p<0.001) and the values remained higher after stratification by age, gender, disease duration, rheumatoid factor and HAQ. Correlations among indexes ranged from 0.84 to 0.99, with better correlation between SDAI and CDAI. Agreements among activity strata ranged from 46.8% to 95.8%. DAS28 (CRP) with cut-off point for the remission of 2.3 underestimated disease activity by 45.8% compared with DAS28 (ESR). SDAI and CDAI showed agreement of 95.8%. The four indexes were associated with disease duration and HAQ. CONCLUSIONS: Although the activity indexes show good correlation, they show discrepancies in activity strata, thus requiring more researches to define a better index and better cutoff points.

Coronary angioplasty versus CABG: review of randomized trials.

We carried out a review that included results of randomized trials that made a comparison between percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). The 25 selected trials involved 12,305 patients, 11,103 of whom were from studies in patients with multi-vessel disease and 1,212 were from studies in patients with single lesion of the left anterior descending (LAD). In the studies of multi-vessel disease patients, the PCI showed a trend towards lower early mortality (1.2% versus 2%) and lower incidence of stroke: 0.7% versus 1.65%. There was no difference in the intermediate mortality (3.8% versus 3.8%). There was a trend towards the superiority of CABG in late mortality (10.5% versus 9.6%). The difference was exclusively due to "balloon era" studies, with a trend towards an inversion in the "stent era" (9.6% versus 9.9%). In studies of single lesion of LAD, there was no significant difference in any endpoint. The aggregation of results from nine studies that assessed late mortality in diabetic patients showed a difference in favor of surgery (21.3% versus 15.9%). Two studies that evaluated main coronary artery disease did not show a significant difference in mortality at one year (3.9% versus 4.7%). The incidence of repeat revascularization was consistently higher in PCI, despite the progressive improvement in results in the stent era.

Angioplastia coronariana versus cirurgia de revascularização: revisão de estudos randomizados / Coronary angioplasty versus CABG: review of randomized

Realizamos uma revisão com agregação de resultados dos ensaios randomizados que compararam intervenção coronariana percutânea (ICP) com cirurgia de revascularização miocárdica (CRM). Os 25 ensaios selecionados envolveram 12.305 pacientes dos quais 11.103 pertenciam a estudos em multiarteriais e 1.212 pertenciam a estudos em lesão única de descendente anterior (DA). Nos estudos em multiarteriais a ICP mostrou uma tendência a menor mortalidade precoce (1,2 por cento versus 2 por cento) e menor incidência de acidente vascular cerebral (AVC): 0,7 por cento versus 1,65 por cento. Não houve diferença na mortalidade intermediária (3,8 por cento versus 3,8 por cento). Houve tendência à superioridade da CRM na mortalidade tardia (10,5 por cento versus 9,6 por cento). A diferença deveu-se exclusivamente aos estudos da era balão, tendendo a inverter-se na era stent (9,6 por cento versus 9,9 por cento). Nos estudos de lesão única de DA não houve diferença significativa em nenhum desfecho. A agregação de resultados de nove estudos que avaliaram a mortalidade tardia em diabéticos mostrou diferença favorável à cirurgia (21,3 por cento versus 15,9 por cento). Dois estudos que avaliaram lesão de tronco não mostraram diferença significativa na mortalidade em um ano (3,9 por cento versus 4,7 por cento). A incidência de nova revascularização foi consistentemente maior na ICP, apesar de progressiva melhora dos resultados na era stent.

We carried out a review that included results of randomized trials that made a comparison between percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). The 25 selected trials involved 12,305 patients, 11,103 of whom were from studies in patients with multi-vessel disease and 1,212 were from studies in patients with single lesion of the left anterior descending (LAD). In the studies of multi-vessel disease patients, the PCI showed a trend towards lower early mortality (1.2 percent versus 2 percent) and lower incidence of stroke: 0.7 percent versus 1.65 percent. There was no difference in the intermediate mortality (3.8 percent versus 3.8 percent). There was a trend towards the superiority of CABG in late mortality (10.5 percent versus 9.6 percent). The difference was exclusively due to "balloon era" studies, with a trend towards an inversion in the "stent era" (9.6 percent versus 9.9 percent). In studies of single lesion of LAD, there was no significant difference in any endpoint. The aggregation of results from nine studies that assessed late mortality in diabetic patients showed a difference in favor of surgery (21.3 percent versus 15.9 percent). Two studies that evaluated main coronary artery disease did not show a significant difference in mortality at one year (3.9 percent versus 4.7 percent). The incidence of repeat revascularization was consistently higher in PCI, despite the progressive improvement in results in the stent era.

Lúpus eritematoso sistêmico e tuberculose renal: descrição de nove Casos / Systemic lupus erythematosus and renal tuberculosis: description of nine cases

OBJETIVO: O presente estudo tem por objetivo principal descrever uma série de nove casos de tuberculose (TB) renal em pacientes portadores de lúpus eritematoso sistêmico (LES) ocorridos em um período de seis anos em um hospital terciário do Nordeste brasileiro. MÉTODOS: Foram identificados nove pacientes portadoras de LES com baciloscopia e/ou cultura de urina positivas para Mycobacterium tuberculosis no período de outubro de 1998 a novembro de 2004, por intermédio dos registros do Serviço de Microbiologia do Hospital Universitário Walter Cantídio. Foram coletados dados demográficos, dados sobre o LES e sobre a TB renal das respectivas pacientes. RESULTADOS: Todas as pacientes eram do sexo feminino, com idade entre 19 e 58 anos. Quanto às características do LES, todas haviam tido nefrite lúpica em algum momento da evolução, das quais três haviam utilizado ciclofosfamida previamente à infecção. A dose média de prednisona antes do diagnóstico de TB renal variou entre 7, 5 e 20 mg/dia. O diagnóstico de TB renal foi feito por meio de cultura positiva em cinco pacientes e por intermédio de baciloscopia apenas em quatro pacientes. As manifestações laboratoriais mais freqüentes foram leucocitúria e hematúria. A recidiva da TB renal ocorreu em quatro pacientes. CONCLUSÃO: A ocorrência de TB renal em pacientes com LES deve ser suspeitada na presença de piúria estéril e/ou hematúria persistentes, em especial em populações de países em desenvolvimento.

OBJECTIVE: The main objective of the present study was to describe a series of nine cases of renal tuberculosis (TB) in patients diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) over a period of six years at a tertiary-level hospital in Northeastern Brazil. METHODS: Nine SLE patients with renal TB confirmed by bacterioscopy (n=4) or urine culture (n=5) positive for M. tuberculosis between October 1998 and November 2004 were sampled from the records of the microbiology department of Hospital Universitário Walter Cantídio. Data were collected regarding demographics, SLE and renal TB. RESULTS: All patients were female, aged between 19 and 58 years and had a history of lupus nephritis. Three had been on cyclophosphamide therapy prior to TB infection. The average dose of prednisone administered before the diagnosis of renal TB ranged between 7.5 and 20 mg/day. The most common laboratory findings were leukocyturia and hematuria. Renal TB recurred in four patients. CONCLUSION: The occurrence of renal TB in SLE patients should be suspected in the presence of persistent sterile pyuria and/or hematuria, especially in developing countries.

Sleep disturbances and prevalence of depression in systemic lupus erythematosus patients receiving intravenous cyclophosphamide

Background: Pulse i.v. cyclophosphamide is a therapeutic option in severe forms of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). However, the overall toxicity and risk profile are yet to be adequately defined. Objetive: To evaluate the occurrence of sleep disturbances in SLE patients subjected to i.v. cyclophosphamide. Methods: We studied thirty consecutive SLE patients (27 female) age range 14 to 53 years (mean 30.5 ± 10 years) that received i.v. cyclophosphamide (mg) (mean 948.27 ± 221.39). Depressive symptoms, quality of sleep, and the presence of excessive daytime sleepiness were evaluated. Disease severity was assessed by the SLEDAI. Quality of sleep was assessed by the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) by the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS). Depressive symptoms were evaluated using the 21-item Beck Depression Inventory (BDI). Results: SLEDAI values ranged from 2 to 46 (mean 17 ± 11.4). The most common comorbidities were systemic arterial hypertension (30 percent), anemia (23.3 percent), osteoporosis (23.3 percent), and cardiomyopathy (6.6 percent). Seizures occurred in one patient (3.3 percent). Poor quality of sleep (PSQI 8805; 6) and EDS (ESS >10) were found in 66.7 percent and 30 percent of the patients, respectively. Depressive symptoms (BDI >19) were present in 40 percent of the patients and were associated with poor sleep quality (P = 0.03). Conclusions: Our findings show an increased prevalence of poor sleep quality and depressive symptoms in SLE patients receiving pulse i.v. cyclophosphamide. These findings were similar to other previously reported series of SLE patients regardless of the therapies used.

INTRODUÇÃO: O uso de ciclofosfamida endovenosa é uma opção terapêutica nas formas graves de lúpus eritematoso sistêmico (LES). No entanto, a toxicidade e o perfil de risco ainda não estão adequadamente definidos. OBJETIVO: Avaliar sobre a ocorrência de alterações do sono em pacientes portadores de LES submetidos à terapia com ciclofosfamida endovenosa. MÉTODOS: Nós estudamos 30 casos consecutivos (27 do sexo feminino) com idade entre 14 e 53 anos (30,5 ± 10), em pulsoterapia com ciclofosfamida (mg) (média 948,27 ± 221,39). Os pacientes foram avaliados quanto à presença de sintomas depressivos, qualidade do sono e sonolência excessiva diurna (SED). A qualidade do sono foi estudada pelo índice de qualidade do sono de Pittsburgh (IQSP), a SED pela escala de sonolência de Epworth e os sintomas depressivos pelo Inventário de Depressão de Beck (21 itens). A gravidade da doença foi avaliada por intermédio do SLEDAI. RESULTADOS: O SLEDAI oscilou entre 2 e 46 (17 ± 11,4). Hipertensão (30 por cento), anemia (23,3 por cento), osteoporose (23,3 por cento) e miocardiopatia (6,6 por cento) foram as comorbidades mais observadas. Um paciente tinha história de convulsões (3,3 por cento). Má qualidade do sono (PSQI maior ou igual 8805; 6) foi encontrada em 66,7 por cento e SED (ESS > 10), em 30 por cento dos pacientes. Sintomas de depressão (BDI > 19) estavam presentes em 40 por cento dos casos. Os sintomas depressivos associaram-se à presença de má qualidade do sono (p = 0,03). CONCLUSÕES: Nosso estudo mostra que alterações do sono e sintomas depressivos são comuns em pacientes portadores de LES em pulsoterapia com ciclofosfamida. Esses achados são similares a outros estudos previamente relatados e são independentes do tipo de tratamento utilizado.

Incidência de fratura do quadril em área urbana do Nordeste brasileiro / Hip fracture incidence in an urban area in Northeast Brazil

A fratura do quadril causa grande morbidade e mortalidade e envolve alto custo, sendo reconhecida como um problema de saúde pública. Sua incidência varia amplamente entre vários países e mesmo entre cidades de uma mesma região. O objetivo do estudo foi determinar a taxa de incidência de fratura de quadril na cidade de Fortaleza, Ceará, Brasil. Foram identificados prospectivamente todos casos de fratura de fêmur, em indivíduos acima de 45 anos, atendidos nos hospitais públicos e privados da cidade de Fortaleza no período de julho de 2001 a junho de 2002. Seiscentos e setenta e três pacientes fraturaram o fêmur, sendo 382 provenientes da cidade de Fortaleza. A incidência anual de fratura de quadril na cidade de Fortaleza em indivíduos acima de 60 anos foi de 21,7/10 mil habitantes (13/10 mil no sexo masculino e 27,7/10 mil no sexo feminino). As fraturas de quadril foram mais freqüentes no sexo feminino e aumentaram progressivamente com a idade. A taxa de incidência do quadril na cidade de Fortaleza foi uma das mais baixas quando comparadas com estudos realizados em várias partes do mundo.

[Hip fracture incidence in an urban area in Northeast Brazil]. / Incidência de fratura do quadril em área urbana do Nordeste brasileiro.

Hip fractures involve high morbidity and mortality and extensive treatment costs and are thus considered an important public health issue. Hip fracture incidence varies greatly between countries and even between cities in the same region. This study aimed to determine hip fracture incidence in Fortaleza, Ceará State, Brazil. Hip fracture cases were identified prospectively in patients aged 45 and over attending private and public hospitals in Fortaleza from July 2001 to June 2002. The study identified 673 patients with hip fractures, 382 of whom from Fortaleza. Annual hip fracture incidence in Fortaleza for patients over 60 years was 21.7/10,000 inhabitants (13.0/10,000 for men and 27.7/10,000 for women). Hip fractures were more frequent among women and with advancing age. Hip fracture incidence in Fortaleza was very low compared to rates reported from other parts of the world.

Efeitos colaterais da administração da pulsoterapia de ciclofosfamida em pacientes com lúpus eritematososistêmico e fatores associados a irregularidades no tratamento / Side effects of cyclophosphamide pulse therapy in patients with systemic lupuserythematosus and factors associated with irregularity

Objetivo: Avaliar os principais efeitos colaterais que ocorrem durante o tratamento com pulsoterapia de ciclofosfamida em pacientes com Lupus Eritematoso Sistêmico, bem como analisar quais fatores estariam mais associados com a irregularidade do tratamento. Métodos: pacientes com diagnóstico de Lupus Eritematoso Sistêmico(LES)em esquema de pulsoterapia de ciclofosfamida (CF) foram abordados no dia da administração da medicação para coleta de dados sóciodemográficos, clínicos, relacionados aos efeitos colaterais da CF e motivos de atrasos na administração da pulsoterapia. Dados complementares foram extraídos dos prontuários. Resultados: 48 pacientes foram abordados em uma ou mais ocasiões durante a realização da pulso terapia de CF, totalizando 176 avaliações. A média de idade foi de 30,3 ± 10,3 anos, 95,8% eram do sexo feminino e a indicação mais freqüente da pulsoterapia foi a nefrite lúpica (91,6%). Por ocasião da avaliação inicial nos 48 pacientes, os efeitos colaterais registrados pelos pacientes desde o início do tratamento foram: náuseas e vômitos (85A%), queda de cabelo (75%), amenorréia (41,5%)e infecção (33,3%). Estes efeitos foram menos freqüentes nas avaliações prospectivas. As taxas de náuseas foram menores nos pacientes que tomavam doses maiores de prednisona (dose de prednisona E 5mg/dia: 93,6% de náuseas; 5-20mg prednisona/dia: 77,4%; > 20mg de prednisona/dia: 62,5%; p = 0,001). 60A% dos pacientes pensaram em desistir do tratamento em algum momento devido aos efeitos colaterais. Em 32,8% das avaliações (57/174) houve atraso na última administração de CFe os principais motivos foram pessoais (38,6%)e infecções (38,6%).Conclusões: Os efeitos colaterais associados a pulsoterapia de CF são muito freqüentes, embora nãomuito graves. A irregularidade na administração da CF por atraso é freqüente e são necessários estudosprospectivos para se avaliar o impacto destes atrasos no prognóstico dos pacientes.

Análise de 95 biópsias renais de pacientes com nefrite lúpica: correlação clínico-histológica e fatores associados a insuficiência renal crônica / Analysis of 95 renal biopsies from patients with lupus nephritis: clinical and histological correlation and chronic renal failure associated factors

Objetivo: analisar características clínico-laboratoriais dos pacientes com nefrite lúpica que se submeteram à biópsia renal em um hospital universitário; correlacionar manifestações clínico-laboratoriais com os principais tipos de nefrite lúpica; determinar fatores associados ao desenvolvimento de insuficiência renal crônica (IRC). Métodos: dados demográficos, clínicos, laboratoriais e histológicos de todos pacientes com diagnóstico de nefrite lúpica que realizaram biópsia renal no período de janeiro de 1997 a julho de 2002 foram avaliados retrospectivamente. Resultados: Setenta e sete pacientes com nefrite lúpica realizaram 95 biópsias. Considerado apenas 76 amostras com resultados conclusivos, a glomerulonefrite (GMN) proliferativa difusa foi o tipo histológico mais prevalente (68,4 por cento), seguido pela proliferativa focal (14,5 por cento) e mesangial (7,9 por cento). Hipertensão arterial, creatinina > 1,2g/dL, hipoalbuminemia (albumina < 2,6 g/dL) e síndrome nefrótica estiveram presentes por ocasião da primeira biópsia em, respectivamente, 43,8 por cento, 48,7 por cento, 55, 2 por cento e 15,6 por cento. A GMN proliferativa difusa esteve mais associada com creatinina elevada (p = 0,002), hipoalbuminemia (p = 0,012), sedimento urinário ativo (p = 0,007), edema de membros inferiores (p = 0,01), hematúria (p = 0,003) e maior índice de atividade (0,0001). A forma mesangial a que mais evoluiu para remissão (66,7 por cento), quando comparada com a forma proliferativa focal (12,5 por cento) e difusa (12,8 por cento) (p = 0,02). O tempo de seguimento médio dos pacientes foi de 29,3 mais ou menos 20,7 meses (mediana = 24,5 meses). Trinta por cento dos pacientes evoluíram para IRC. Creatinina elevada (OR = 11; IC 95 por cento: 2,16-55,9), plaquetopenia (OR = 6,8; IC 95 por cento: 1,43-32,19), hipoalbuminemia (OR = 6,42; IC 95 por cento: 1,21-33,97) e índice de cronicidade = 2 (OR = 6,36; IC 95 por cento: 1,02-39,57) foram associados com IRC. Conclusões: dados clínicos e histológicos são importantes para se avaliar o prognóstico dos pacientes com nefrite lúpica. Creatinina elevada, hipoalbuminemia, plaquetopenia e índice de cronicidade = 2 são fatores associados com evolução para IRC.