Lung ultrasound is a promising screening tool to rule out interstitial lung disease in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: It is still controversial how to screen for interstitial lung disease (ILD) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). We aimed to evaluate the performance of lung ultrasound (LUS) as a screening tool for RA-ILD and to compare it with the performance of chest auscultation, chest x-ray and pulmonary function tests (PFTs). METHODS: Cross-sectional study of consecutive RA patients evaluated at a Rheumatology Clinic in Buenos Aires between January and December 2022. High-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) was the gold standard for diagnosing ILD and was performed within 30 days of the LUS, chest x-ray and PFTs. Investigators were blinded to HRCT results and patients' clinical data. LUS was performed by exploring 14 areas and was considered positive when the sum of B lines was ≥5. Performance for the diagnosis of ILD was reported for each diagnostic test. RESULTS: One hundred and six patients were included; 87 (82%) were women. Median age was 60.9 (±9.5) years-old. A total of 32 (30.2%, 95% CI: 21.6%-39.9%) had ILD. The sensitivity and negative predictive value of LUS were 90.6% (95% CI 75.0%-98.0%) and 94.7% (95% CI 85.4%-98.9%), respectively. LUS performance was superior to that of the other evaluated diagnostic tests for screening ILD. CONCLUSIONS: Given that the US is a low-cost point-of-care tool with a high negative predictive value, it is emerging as a valuable tool for ruling out ILD in patients with RA.

Patrones de tratamiento con agentes biológicos: Eficacia y sobrevida a largo plazo en pacientes con artritis reumatoidea / Treatment patterns with biological agents: Efficacy and long-term survival in patients with rheumatoid arthritis

En nuestro país existen pocos datos acerca de los patrones de tratamiento y la sobrevida de las Drogas Modificadoras de la Artritis Reumatoidea biológicas (DMARb) en pacientes con Artritis Reumatoidea (AR). El objetivo de nuestro estudio fue estimar la sobrevida del 1° y 2° agente biológico, determinar sus causas de suspensión y evaluar factores que influyan en la sobrevida de estos agentes. Material y métodos: Se realizó un estudio multicéntrico retrospectivo. Se incluyeron pacientes ≥18 años de edad que cumplieran con criterios ACR/EULAR 2010 para AR y que iniciaron su 1° y/o 2° DMARb entre 01/2006 y 06/2017, la recolección de datos se realizó mediante la revisión de historias clínicas. Se consignaron variables sociodemográficas y clínicas. Resultados: Se incluyeron 347 pacientes con edad mediana de 57,8 años, 89,6% mujeres, 96,5% tenían Factor Reumatoideo (FR) positivo. El 53,9% de los pacientes discontinuaron el tratamiento con la 1°DMARb, treinta y ocho pacientes (41,3%) discontinuaron el 2° DMARb. La causa más frecuente de suspensión del primer biológico fue la falta de provisión, mientras que la del segundo biológico fue la ineficacia. Las supervivencias medianas fueron: para la 1° DMARb 31 meses (IC 95%: 21,8-40,1) y para 2° DMARb 11 meses (IC 95%: 4-17,9), no observamos diferencias significativas en la supervivencia entre los distintos agentes, los factores independientemente asociados a menor supervivencia del 1° DMARb fueron el tabaquismo y menor edad y del 2° DMARb fue haber discontinuado el primer agente biológico debido a evento adverso. Conclusión: Las supervivencias medianas del 1° DMARb y del 2° DMARb fueron 2,6 años y menor a 1 año, respectivamente. A diferencia de otras cohortes de países desarrollados, la causa más frecuente de suspensión del primer biológico fue la falta de provisión de la medicación por parte del pagador, mientras que la del segundo biológico fue la ineficacia.

In our country there are few data about the treatment patterns and the survival of the Biologic Disease Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs (bDMARD) in patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA). The objective of our study was to evaluate the survival of the 1st and 2nd biological agent, determine the causes of suspension and factors that influence on the survival of these agents. Material and methods: A retrospective multicenter study was conducted. We included patients ≥18 years of age who met the ACR/EULAR 2010 criteria for RA and who started in 1st and/or 2nd bDMARD between 01/2006 and 06/2017, the data collection was done by reviewing clinical charts The sociodemographic and clinical variables were recorded. Results: We included 347 patients with a median age of 57.8 years, 89.6% women, 96.5% had positive Rheumatoid Factor (RF). 53.9% of patients discontinued treatment with 1st bDMARD, thirty-eight patients (41.3%) discontinued the 2nd bDMARD. The most frequent cause of suspension of the first biological was the lack of provision, while the second biological was inefficacy. The median survivals were: for the 1st bDMARD 31 months (95% CI: 21.8-40.1) and for the 2nd bDMARD 11 months (95% CI: 4-17.9), we did not observe significant differences in survival between the different agents. The independent factors associated with lower survival of the 1st bDMARD were smoking and lower age and the 2nd bDMARD was to have discontinued the first biological agent due to an adverse event. Conclusion: The median survivals of the 1st bDMARD and the 2nd bDMARD were 2.6 years and less than 1 year, respectively. Unlike other cohorts of developed countries the most frequent cause of suspension of the first biological was the lack of provision of the drug by the payer, while the second biological was inefficacy.

Evaluation of learned helplessness, self-efficacy and disease activity, functional capacity and pain in Argentinian patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the association between learned helplessness (LH) and self-efficacy (SE) with disease activity, functional capacity, and level of pain in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and to compare LH and SE between patients in remission and patients with active disease. METHOD: This multicentre, cross-sectional study included consecutive patients (aged ≥ 18 years) with RA according to 2010 American College of Rheumatology/European League Against Rheumatism (ACR/EULAR) criteria. LH was measured by the Rheumatology Attitude Index (RAI), Spanish version; SE with the Arthritis Self-efficacy Scale (ASES), Spanish version; functional capacity with the Health Assessment Questionnaire, Argentinian version (HAQ-A); and perceived pain by the visual analogue scale (VAS). Disease activity was measured by the Clinical Disease Activity Index (CDAI). RESULTS: A total of 115 patients (82% females) with a mean (± sd) age of 58 ± 13 years were included. We found a significantly positive correlation between LH and perceived pain (p < 0.001), HAQ-A score (p < 0.001), and CDAI (p < 0.001) and a significantly negative correlation between SE and perceived pain (p < 0.001), HAQ-A score (p < 0.001), and CDAI (p < 0.001). We found greater levels of SE and lower grades of LH in patients in remission compared to those with active disease (median 76 vs. 58; p < 0.001 and 6 vs. 11; p < 0.001, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: LH and SE correlated significantly with disease activity, functional capacity, and perceived pain. Levels of SE were higher in patients in remission compared to those with active disease as opposed to levels of LH, which were lower in patients in remission compared to those with active disease. These results show that cognitive factors are related to disease activity and their modifications may have importance in the management of RA.

Validación del índice compuesto DAPSA (Disease Activity for Psoriatic Arthritis) en una cohorte de pacientes con artritis psoriásica en Argentina y determinación de sus valores de corte / Validation of the composite index DAPSA (Disease Activity for Psoriatic Arthritis) in a cohort of patients with psoriasis arthritis in Argentina and determination of their cut-off values

Objetivos: Validar el índice DAPSA en pacientes con Artritis Psoriásica (APs) en Argentina, comparar su rendimiento con índices compuestos y con la ultrasonografía (US) y establecer valores de corte. Materiales y Métodos: Se incluyeron pacientes con APs según criterios CASPAR. En 10 pacientes se realizó recuento ecográfico de articulaciones tumefactas (66) y se calculó un DAPSA ecográfico. Para establecer valores de corte se realizó la valoración de los estados de actividad de la enfermedad por 10 reumatólogos a través 20 casos hipotéticos de pacientes con APs y según los valores de corte del SDAI. Resultados: Se incluyeron 112 pacientes. DAPSA m14,3 (RIC 7-22,4). DAPSA presentó muy buena correlación con DAS28 (Rho:0,85), IAS (Rho:0,94), CDAI (Rho:0,95), SDAI (Rho:0,94) y N° de articulaciones dolorosas (Rho:0,84). DAPSA ecográfico m10,6 (RIC 8,5-17,9) presentó muy buena correlación con DAPSA (Rho:0,94). Usando los valores de corte del SDAI, elaboramos curvas ROC para establecer los valores de corte del DAPSA: ≤3,5 remisión, >3,5 a ≤13,4 baja, >13,4 a ≤26,2 moderada y >26,2 alta actividad (sensibilidad y especificidad ≥90%, área bajo la curva de 98%). Conclusión: Los valores de corte propuestos permitieron definir los diferentes estados de actividad de la enfermedad con muy buena sensibilidad y especificidad.

Objective: To validate DAPSA in patients with PsA in Argentina, evaluate its performance using other indexes, the ultrasound and establish tentative cut-off values according to disease activity. Methods: Patients with PsA according to CASPAR criteria. DAS28, DAPSA, SDAI, CDAI, and CPDAI were calculated. In 10 patients we assessed swollen joints (66) by ultrasound and calculated an ultrasound DAPSA. We tried to establish cut-off values through: the assessment of disease activity states by 10 rheumatologists through 20 hypothetical cases of patients with PsA and according to SDAI cut-off points. Finally, we validated DAPSA cut-off values in the RAPSODIA cohort. Results: We included 112 patients. DAPSA m14.3 (IQR 7-22.4). DAPSA had excellent correlation with DAS28 (Rho:0.85), CDAI (Rho:0.95), SDAI (Rho:0.94) and tender joint count (Rho:0.84). Ultrasound DAPSA m10.6 (IQR 8.5-17.9), it had excellent correlation with DAPSA (Rho:0.94). Using established cut-off values for SDAI, we performed ROC curves for DAPSA's cut-off values: ≤3.5 remission, >3.5 to ≤13.4 low, >13.4 to ≤26.2 moderate, and >26.2 high disease activity (sensitivity and specificity ≥90%, area under the curve of 98%). Conclusion: With these cut-off values is possible to define different disease activity states with a very good sensitivity and specificity.

Estudio piloto sobre correlación clínica, radiológica y ecográfica en pacientes con artritis reumatoidea / Pilot study on clinical, radiographic and ecographic correlation in patients with rehumatoid arthritis

El objetivo de este estudio piloto fue evaluar la correlación entre las evaluaciones clínicas, radiológica y ecográfica en pacientes con AR. Material y métodos: Estudio de corte transversal realizado en el marco de un taller de clinimetría y ecografía para médicos reumatólogos. Se incluyeron pacientes ≥ a 18 años de edad, con diagnóstico de AR. Los pacientes fueron evaluados a través de autocuestionarios validados: actividad de la enfermedad (RADAI), capacidad funcional (HAQ-A y HAQ-II) y RAPID-3; escala visual análoga (EVA) para dolor, evaluación global de la enfermedad y rigidez matinal (RM) y recuento articular (28) por dos médicos reumatólogos. Estos dos médicos también determinaron la evaluación global de la enfermedad de los pacientes (EVA). Se consignó valor de eritrosedimentación (ERS) dentro de la semana previa al examen. Se calculó el índice compuesto DAS28. Radiografías de manos y pies (en posición frente) efectuadas dentro de la semana previa al examen fueron leídas por otros dos médicos reumatólogos mediante método de Sharp modificado por van der Heijde (SvdH) y método SENS (Simplified Erosion and Narrowing Score). A todos los pacientes se les realizó ecografía articular Modo B y Doppler de poder (PD) de 12 por 5 médicos experimentados. Se determinó presencia de derrame de líquido sinovial (DS), hipertrofia sinovial (HS) y señal (PD). A la presencia de cada uno de estos hallazgos se les asignaba 1 punto y el índice ecográfico total resultaba de la suma de los puntos positivos (rango 0-36).

The aim of this pilot study was to evaluate the correlation betweenclinical, radiological and ultrasound assessments in patients withRA.Material and methods: Cross-sectional study conducted in theframework of a clinimetric and ultrasound workshop for rheumatologists.We included patients with rheumatoid arthritis (ACR1987) ≥ 18 years of age. Patients were evaluated using validatedquestionnaires: disease activity (RADAI), functional capacity (HAQ-Aand HAQ-II) and RAPID-3; visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, globalassessment of disease and morning stiffness (MS) and joint count(28) by two rheumatologists who also determined the global assessmentof the patient’s disease (VAS). Sedimentation rate (ESR)in the week before the exam was recorded. DAS28 composite indexwas calculated. Radiographs of hands and feet (front position) performedwithin one week before the examination were read by tworheumatologists using the Sharp method modified by van der Heijde(SvdH) and SENS (Simplified Erosion and Narrowing Score) method.All patients underwent joint ultrasonography B Mode and PowerDoppler (PD) of 12 joints by 5 experienced physicians. Presence ofeffusion of synovial fluid (SF), synovial hypertrophy (SH) and signal(PD) were determined. To the presence of each of these findingswere assigned 1 point and the total ultrasound index was the sumof the positive points (range 0-36).

Manifestaciones reumatológicas y sistémicas en pacientes con enfermedad inflamatoria intestinal / Rheumatological and systemic manistestations in patients with inflammatory bowel disease

Introducción: La Enfermedad Inflamatoria Intestinal (EII) comprende la Enfermedad de Crohn (EC) y la Colitis Ulcerosa (CU). La frecuencia del compromiso sistémico en la EII es entre 20 y 40%, y las manifestaciones más frecuentes son las dermatológicas, oculares, articulares y hepatobiliares. Ante la falta de datos sobre la frecuencia y características de dichas manifestaciones en nuestra población, decidimos evaluar la prevalencia de las manifestaciones clínicas extraintestinales en pacientes argentinos con diagnóstico de EII, evaluar sus características, determinar su asociación con la CU y/o EC y examinar el compromiso axial radiológico de estos pacientes. Materiales y métodos: Se estudiaron 95 pacientes consecutivos con diagnóstico establecido de EII. Se completó un cuestionario registrando datos demográficos y clínicos de la EII. Dos médicos realizaron un examen físico completo reumatológico. Se realizaron radiografías de columna lumbar y cervical, pelvis panorámica y sacroilíacas por técnica de Fergusson puntuadas según criterios de New York. Las radiografías fueron leídas por un investigador independiente que desconocía los datos clínicos de los pacientes. Resultados: Se incluyeron 95 pacientes, 39,9% eran de sexo masculino. La edad mediana fue de 37 años y la mediana de tiempo de evolución de la EII fue de 6 años. En relación al diagnóstico, 75,8% tenían CU y 22,11% EC; un paciente presentaba ambos diagnósticos (CU y EC) y otro tenía enfermedad intestinal indiferenciada. Las manifestaciones no reumatológicas más frecuentes fueron: úlceras orales 38,9%, uveítis 10,5%, cervicitis/uretritis 8,4%, eritema nodoso 6,3%, psoriasis 2,1% y pioderma gangrenoso 1,1%. En cuanto a las manifestaciones reumatológicas: lumbalgia inflamatoria 44,2%, artritis periférica 27,4%, talalgia 24,2%, dactilitis 13,7% y entesitis 11,6%...(AU)

ntroduction:Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) includes CrohnÆsDisease (CD) and Ulcerative Colitis (UC). The frequency of systemicinvolvement in IBD is between 20 and 40%, and most common mani-festations are dermatologic, ocular, articular and hepatobiliary. In theabsence of data on the frequency and characteristics of such eventsin our population, we decided to evaluate the prevalence of extrain-testinal manifestations in argentinian patients diagnosed with IBD,evaluate their characteristics, determine its association with UC and/or CD and examine the radiographic engagement of these patients.Materials and Methods:95 consecutive patients with an estab-lished diagnosis of IBD were included. A questionnaire was com-pleted collecting demographic and clinical data of IBD patients. Twophysicians performed a complete rheumatological examination. Ra-diographs were read by an independent investigator blinded to theclinical data of patients.Results:95 patients were included, 39.9% were male. The medianage was 37 years and median duration of IBD was 6 years. 75.8%had UC and 22.11% CD, one patient had both diagnoses (UC and CD)and one had undifferentiated intestinal disease. The most frequentnon-rheumatological manifestations were 38.9% oral ulcers, uveitis10.5%, cervicitis/urethritis 8.4%, erythema nodosum 6.3%, psoria-sis 2.1% and pyoderma gangrenosum 1.1%. As for rheumatologicalmanifestations: inflammatory back pain 44.2%, peripheral arthritis27.4%, heel pain 24.2%, dactylitis 13.7% and enthesitis 11.6%. Nosignificant differences in the frequency of these manifestations be-tween different types of IBD were observed. Sacroiliitis with greaterthan or equal to 2 graduation was detected in 23.8% of patients, andthis was significantly more frequent in patients with CD...(AU)

Manifestaciones reumatológicas y sistémicas en pacientes con enfermedad inflamatoria intestinal / Rheumatological and systemic manistestations in patients with inflammatory bowel disease

Introducción: La Enfermedad Inflamatoria Intestinal (EII) comprende la Enfermedad de Crohn (EC) y la Colitis Ulcerosa (CU). La frecuencia del compromiso sistémico en la EII es entre 20 y 40%, y las manifestaciones más frecuentes son las dermatológicas, oculares, articulares y hepatobiliares. Ante la falta de datos sobre la frecuencia y características de dichas manifestaciones en nuestra población, decidimos evaluar la prevalencia de las manifestaciones clínicas extraintestinales en pacientes argentinos con diagnóstico de EII, evaluar sus características, determinar su asociación con la CU y/o EC y examinar el compromiso axial radiológico de estos pacientes. Materiales y métodos: Se estudiaron 95 pacientes consecutivos con diagnóstico establecido de EII. Se completó un cuestionario registrando datos demográficos y clínicos de la EII. Dos médicos realizaron un examen físico completo reumatológico. Se realizaron radiografías de columna lumbar y cervical, pelvis panorámica y sacroilíacas por técnica de Fergusson puntuadas según criterios de New York. Las radiografías fueron leídas por un investigador independiente que desconocía los datos clínicos de los pacientes. Resultados: Se incluyeron 95 pacientes, 39,9% eran de sexo masculino. La edad mediana fue de 37 años y la mediana de tiempo de evolución de la EII fue de 6 años. En relación al diagnóstico, 75,8% tenían CU y 22,11% EC; un paciente presentaba ambos diagnósticos (CU y EC) y otro tenía enfermedad intestinal indiferenciada. Las manifestaciones no reumatológicas más frecuentes fueron: úlceras orales 38,9%, uveítis 10,5%, cervicitis/uretritis 8,4%, eritema nodoso 6,3%, psoriasis 2,1% y pioderma gangrenoso 1,1%. En cuanto a las manifestaciones reumatológicas: lumbalgia inflamatoria 44,2%, artritis periférica 27,4%, talalgia 24,2%, dactilitis 13,7% y entesitis 11,6%...

ntroduction:Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) includes Crohn’sDisease (CD) and Ulcerative Colitis (UC). The frequency of systemicinvolvement in IBD is between 20 and 40%, and most common mani-festations are dermatologic, ocular, articular and hepatobiliary. In theabsence of data on the frequency and characteristics of such eventsin our population, we decided to evaluate the prevalence of extrain-testinal manifestations in argentinian patients diagnosed with IBD,evaluate their characteristics, determine its association with UC and/or CD and examine the radiographic engagement of these patients.Materials and Methods:95 consecutive patients with an estab-lished diagnosis of IBD were included. A questionnaire was com-pleted collecting demographic and clinical data of IBD patients. Twophysicians performed a complete rheumatological examination. Ra-diographs were read by an independent investigator blinded to theclinical data of patients.Results:95 patients were included, 39.9% were male. The medianage was 37 years and median duration of IBD was 6 years. 75.8%had UC and 22.11% CD, one patient had both diagnoses (UC and CD)and one had undifferentiated intestinal disease. The most frequentnon-rheumatological manifestations were 38.9% oral ulcers, uveitis10.5%, cervicitis/urethritis 8.4%, erythema nodosum 6.3%, psoria-sis 2.1% and pyoderma gangrenosum 1.1%. As for rheumatologicalmanifestations: inflammatory back pain 44.2%, peripheral arthritis27.4%, heel pain 24.2%, dactylitis 13.7% and enthesitis 11.6%. Nosignificant differences in the frequency of these manifestations be-tween different types of IBD were observed. Sacroiliitis with greaterthan or equal to 2 graduation was detected in 23.8% of patients, andthis was significantly more frequent in patients with CD...

Tercer reporte de eventos adversos con tratamientos biológicos en Argentina. Informe de registro biobadasar / Thrid report of adverse events with biologics in Argentina. Report from biobadasar registry

Introducción: BIOBADASAR (Registro Argentino de Eventos Adversos con Tratamientos Biológicos en Reumatología) comenzó en agosto de 2010. La importancia de este registro es mostrar datos locales que, probablemente, puedan diferir de otros registros. El objetivo es comunicar los resultados del tercer reporte de BIOBADASAR. Métodos: Todos los pacientes con enfermedades reumáticas que requirieron tratamiento con agentes biológicos y pacientes controles sin estos tratamientos fueron incluidos en la base de datos provenientes de 32 centros participando a lo largo de la Argentina. Tres áreas de datos son analizados: características de los pacientes, tratamientos y eventos adversos...

Introduction: BIOBADASAR (Argentine Registry of Adverse Events with Biological Treatments in Rheumatology) began in August 2010. The importance of this registry is to show local data that may probably differ from other registries. The objective is to communicate the results of the third BIOBADASAR report. Methods: All patients with rheumatic diseases who required treatment with biological agents and control patients without these treatments were included in the database from 32 participating centers throughout Argentina. Three areas of data are analyzed: patient characteristics, treatments and adverse events...

Primer estudio argentino de correlación en ecografía musculoesquelética / First argentine study of musculoskeletal ultrasonography correlation

Si bien existe evidencia de la potencial aplicación de la ecografía musculoesquelética en la evaluación de las articulaciones con artritis, sonlimitados los datos acerca de su exactitud y reproducibilidad. El objetivo de este estudio es conocer la correlación interobservador e intermáquinas de un grupo de radiólogos y reumatólogos ecografistas de diferentes centros del país. Métodos: Seis reumatólogos y 1 radiólogo se reunieron para definir los lineamientos a ser usados para la lectura e interpretación de imágenes. Las articulaciones evaluadas fueron: carpo (radiocarpiana, intracarpiana), 2 MCF dorsal, ventral y lateral, 3 MCF dorsal, ventral, 2 PIF. Se consignó sinovitis cuando se detectó al menos una de las siguientes lesiones ecográficas: presencia de derrame articular (DA), hipertrofia sinovial (HS) o señal Doppler+. Se vieron 36 imágenes en 2 oportunidades con 1 mes de diferencia para determinar la correlación interobservador de las imágenes de banco. Se evaluaron 3 pacientes para determinar correlación interobservador en tiempo real y uno de los observadores evaluó al mismo paciente en las 3 máquinas para determinar la correlación intermáquinas. Resultados: En las correlaciones de lectura de imágenes de banco, el valor de kappa fue regular a moderado siendo el coeficiente de correlación intraclase (CCI) para señal doppler 0,91. Las correlaciones en tiempo real mostraron un kappa moderado tanto para la detección de líquido como para la hipertrofia sinovial con valores de 0,51 y 0,46, respectivamente, siendo (CCI) para señal doppler en tiempo real de 0,68.

Desalineación articular en pacientes con artritis reumatoidea y su correlación con el daño radiológico / Joint malalignment in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and its correlation with joint damage

En la Artritis Reumatoidea (AR), la inflamación persistente lleva a daño estructural del hueso y del cartílago articular con la consecuente deformidad. Hasta el momento se han desarrollado pocos instrumentos para medir la desalineación y ellos no han sido suficientemente testeados. Objetivo: Evaluar la utilidad del instrumento de evaluación Joint Alignment and Motion Scale (JAMS) como método clínico para determinar desalineación en pacientes con AR y su correlación con el daño radiológico medido por el score de Larsen. Determinar los posibles factores clínicos y/o funcionales asociados a desalineación en estos pacientes. Métodos: Se incluyeron pacientes consecutivos del Instituto de Rehabilitación Psicofísica con diagnóstico de AR (ACR ‘87) con un tiempo de seguimiento no menor a cuatro años. Se evaluó la fuerza de puño por dinamómetro JAMAR y se realizó un test de rango de movimiento y deformidad articular (JAMS) en ambas manos. Radiografías de manos frente al inicio y al final del seguimiento fueron leídas por el índice radiológico de Larsen y un índice radiológico de desalineación. Los pacientes completaron un cuestionario sobre el ítem de destreza derivado de Arthrithis Impact Measurement Scales (AIMS). Resultados: Se incluyeron 101 pacientes, el 86,1% de sexo femenino con una edad mediana de 53 años (RIC 45-62). La mediana de tiempo de evolución de la artritis fue de 9,3 años (RIC 7-13). De los 101 pacientes incluidos se observó desalineación en 19, los cuales presentaban mayor número de articulaciones inflamadas al inicio de la enfermedad y en el momento de la evaluación, mayor tiempo de evolución de la AR y mayor ERS versus los pacientes sin desalineación.

Comparación entre test de squeeze positivo y hallazgos ecográficos en pacientes con artritis reumatoidea / Comparison between positive squeeze test and ultrasound findings in patients

Objetivos: Evaluar si existe una asociación entre el test de Squeeze (TS) positivo y el hallazgo ecográfico de sinovitis en las articulaciones metacarpofalángicas (MCF) y metatarsofálangicas (MTF) de pacientescon diagnóstico de artritis reumatoidea (AR). Resultados: Se evaluaron 35 pacientes con diagnóstico de AR, 85% mujeres, con una mediana de edad de 57 años (RIC 50,5-64), y una mediana de tiempo de evolución de 10 años (RIC 4-15). La sensibilidad (S) y especificidad (E) del test de Squeeze para detectar al menos una MCF dolorosa fue de 81% y 90%, respectivamente. Para detectarinflamación en MCF, el test tuvo una S de 62% y una E de 78%. En pies, el test presentó un menor desempeño, con S y E menores. En la evaluación ecográfica de pacientes con TS positivo se observó una mayor frecuencia de hipertrofia sinovial, distensión articular y señal Doppler en manos, e hipertrofia sinovial y distensión articular en pies. Sin embargo, ninguno de estos hallazgos alcanzó significancia estadística. El test de Squeeze en manos tuvo una S de 50% y E de 84% para detectar señal Doppler. Conclusiones: El test de Squeeze demostró ser útil para detectar articulaciones dolorosas, especialmente en las manos. En este estudio no se encontró una asociación significativa con hallazgos ecográficos. La sensibilidad del test en manos y pies para detectar efecto Doppler no fue buena, pero la especificidad fue aceptable.

Objectives: To assess whether a association exists between thepositive Squeeze test (ST) and ultrasound finding of synovitis in themetacarpophalangeal (MCP) and metatarsophalangeal (MTP) of patientswith rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Results: We evaluated 35 patients with RA, 85% were female, with a median age of 57 years (IQR 50.5-64) and a median disease duration of 10 years (IQR 4-15). The sensitivity (S) and specificity (Sp) for the Squeeze test in detecting at least one painful MCP was 81% and 90%, respectively. To detect inflammation in MCP joints, the testhad a sensitivity of 62% and a specificity of 78%. The test showeda worse performance in feet, with less S and Sp. In the ultrasonographicevaluation of patients with positive TS, we found a higher frequency of synovial hypertrophy, distension and Doppler signal in hands, and synovial hypertrophy and distension in feet. However, none of these findings reached statistical significance. Squeeze test in hands had a S of 50% and Sp of 84% to detect Doppler. Conclusions: The Squeeze test proved to be useful in detecting painful joints, especially in hands. This study found no significantassociation with ultrasound findings. The sensitivity of the test to detect Doppler was not good, but the specificity was acceptable.

Signo de la tecla en pacientes con artritis reumatoidea: su correlación ecográfica / Piano key sign in arthritis rheumatoid patients: ultrasound correlation

Objetivo: Evaluar ecográficamente el carpo y su quinto y sexto compartimento extensor en pacientes con artritis reumatoidea (AR), correlacionando los hallazgos con la presencia del signo clínico de la ¶tecla de piano÷. Métodos: Se incluyeron pacientes con diagnóstico de AR que acudieron a la consulta ambulatoria entre enero y junio de 2009. Se recolectaron datos sociodemográficos, clínicos, y parámetros de actividad de la enfermedad. Se realizó examen físico a cargo de un evaluador, quien constataba la presencia del signo de la tecla. Las evaluaciones ecográficas fueron realizadas en forma ciega por un único médico el mismo día de la consulta, evaluando la presenciade sinovitis a nivel de carpo y el compromiso del quinto y sexto compartimento extensor. Resultados: Se incluyeron 34 pacientes, el 80% eran de sexo femenino y la mediana de edad fue de 56 años (RIQ: 30-84). La mediana de tiempo de evolución de la artritis fue de 114 meses (RIQ: 14-540). Se evaluaron 68 carpos observándose clínicamente la presencia de tecla cubital positiva en el 36,7%. En los carpos con signo de la tecla positivo se observó sinovitis en un 96% y en los que tenían signo de la tecla negativo, 83,7%. A nivel del sexto compartimento se evidenció tendinosis en un 16% de los pacientes con tecla positiva vs. 28% en los de tecla negativa, y tenosinovitis en un 28% vs. 14%, respectivamente. Conclusiones: Este es el primer estudio en nuestro país en correlacionar la presencia del signo de la tecla y los hallazgos ecográficosdel carpo y su quinto y sexto compartimento extensor. Los datos recolectados nos hacen suponer que no existe asociación entre la presencia del signo clínico evaluado y las manifestaciones ecográficas.(AU)

Objective: To evaluate the wrist and his fifth and sixth extensor compartments in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) using ultrasound (US) and compared the findings with the ¶piano key sign÷.Methods: Consecutive adult patients with RA who attended the outpatient clinic at the rheumatology section of our center from January to June 2009 were included. We recorded socio-demographic, clinical and disease activity data. A rheumatologist carried out a physical examination to evaluate the presence of the ¶piano key sign÷.US assessment was performed by a single rheumatologist the same day and evaluates the presence of wrists synovitis and fifth and sixth extensor compartment damage. Results: 34 patients were included, 80% female, median age 56 years (IQR: 30-84). The median disease duration was 114 months (IQR: 14-540). 68 wrists were evaluated. The piano key sign wasobserved in 36.7%. In wrists with the piano key sign, US synovitis was observed in 96% and at the wrists without the sign we observedsynovitis in 83.7%. At the sixth compartment, we observed tendinosis in 16% of the patient who had the piano key sign vs. 28% without the sign, and tenosynovitis in 28% vs. 14, respectively. Conclusions: This study is the first in our country to compare thepresence of the piano key sign with the ultrasonographic findings in de wrist and his fifth and sixth extensor compartment. The data collected enables us to suppose that there is no association between the presence of the clinical sign and the ultrasonographicfindings.(AU)

Signo de la tecla en pacientes con artritis reumatoidea: su correlación ecográfica / Piano key sign in arthritis rheumatoid patients: ultrasound correlation

Objetivo: Evaluar ecográficamente el carpo y su quinto y sexto compartimento extensor en pacientes con artritis reumatoidea (AR), correlacionando los hallazgos con la presencia del signo clínico de la “tecla de piano”. Métodos: Se incluyeron pacientes con diagnóstico de AR que acudieron a la consulta ambulatoria entre enero y junio de 2009. Se recolectaron datos sociodemográficos, clínicos, y parámetros de actividad de la enfermedad. Se realizó examen físico a cargo de un evaluador, quien constataba la presencia del signo de la tecla. Las evaluaciones ecográficas fueron realizadas en forma ciega por un único médico el mismo día de la consulta, evaluando la presenciade sinovitis a nivel de carpo y el compromiso del quinto y sexto compartimento extensor. Resultados: Se incluyeron 34 pacientes, el 80% eran de sexo femenino y la mediana de edad fue de 56 años (RIQ: 30-84). La mediana de tiempo de evolución de la artritis fue de 114 meses (RIQ: 14-540). Se evaluaron 68 carpos observándose clínicamente la presencia de tecla cubital positiva en el 36,7%. En los carpos con signo de la tecla positivo se observó sinovitis en un 96% y en los que tenían signo de la tecla negativo, 83,7%. A nivel del sexto compartimento se evidenció tendinosis en un 16% de los pacientes con tecla positiva vs. 28% en los de tecla negativa, y tenosinovitis en un 28% vs. 14%, respectivamente. Conclusiones: Este es el primer estudio en nuestro país en correlacionar la presencia del signo de la tecla y los hallazgos ecográficosdel carpo y su quinto y sexto compartimento extensor. Los datos recolectados nos hacen suponer que no existe asociación entre la presencia del signo clínico evaluado y las manifestaciones ecográficas.

Objective: To evaluate the wrist and his fifth and sixth extensor compartments in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) using ultrasound (US) and compared the findings with the “piano key sign”.Methods: Consecutive adult patients with RA who attended the outpatient clinic at the rheumatology section of our center from January to June 2009 were included. We recorded socio-demographic, clinical and disease activity data. A rheumatologist carried out a physical examination to evaluate the presence of the “piano key sign”.US assessment was performed by a single rheumatologist the same day and evaluates the presence of wrist’s synovitis and fifth and sixth extensor compartment damage. Results: 34 patients were included, 80% female, median age 56 years (IQR: 30-84). The median disease duration was 114 months (IQR: 14-540). 68 wrists were evaluated. The piano key sign wasobserved in 36.7%. In wrists with the piano key sign, US synovitis was observed in 96% and at the wrists without the sign we observedsynovitis in 83.7%. At the sixth compartment, we observed tendinosis in 16% of the patient who had the piano key sign vs. 28% without the sign, and tenosynovitis in 28% vs. 14, respectively. Conclusions: This study is the first in our country to compare thepresence of the piano key sign with the ultrasonographic findings in de wrist and his fifth and sixth extensor compartment. The data collected enables us to suppose that there is no association between the presence of the clinical sign and the ultrasonographicfindings.

Valor de corte de HAQ para predecir discapacidad laboral en pacientes con artritis reumatoidea / HAQs cut-off point to predict work disability in patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis

La discapacidad laboral ocurre de forma temprana en pacientes con Artritis Reumatoidea (AR), con un importante impacto socioeconómico. En estudios previos, el HAQ ha demostrado ser un fuerte predictor de pérdida del status laboral. Objetivos: Determinar el valor de corte de HAQ-A y otros factoresasociados a desocupación laboral en pacientes con AR. Material y métodos: Se incluyeron 309 pacientes con AR de la consulta ambulatoria del IREP. Se consignaron variables demográficas, socioeconómicas, manifestaciones extraarticulares y tratamientos recibidos. La actividad de la enfermedad fue evaluada por DAS28, daño radiológico de manos y pies por score de Sharp van der Heidje y capacidad funcional por HAQ-A. Resultados: 80 pacientes estaban desocupados, de los cuales en 49 la desocupación estaba relacionada con la AR (62%). En el análisis univariado, una menor edad, edad menor al inicio de la enfermedad y mayor valor de HAQ se asociaron significativamente con desocupación. En el análisis multivariado, la discapacidad medida por HAQ fue la única variable asociada. En el análisis por curvas ROC, un valor de corte de HAQ 0,87 tuvo una sensibilidad de 61% y una especificidad de 67% para predecir discapacidad laboral. Conclusiones: Este es el primer estudio en nuestro país, que demuestra que un valor de HAQ mayor de 0,87 se asoció con discapacidad laboral.(AU)

Work disability occurs early in patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) having a great socioeconomic impact. In previous studies it has been shown that HAQ is a strong predictor of work disability. Objective: To determine HAQ cut off values and other associated factors of work disability in RA patients. Material and methods: 309 RA patients were included. Demographic and socioeconomic variables, extraarticular manifestations and treatments received were collected. Disease activity was evaluated using DAS28, X Ray damage in hands and feet by Sharp van der Heijde score and functional capacity by HAQ. Results: 80 patients were not working, 49 of whom work disability was directly associated with the disease (62%). In univariate analysis younger age at disease onset and higher HAQ values were significantly associated with work disability. In the multivariate analysis only higher HAQ levels were significantly associated with work disability. In ROC curves analysed a cut off value of 0.87 in HAQ had a sensitivity of 61% and specificity of 67% to predict work disability. Conclusions: This is the first study in our country to determine that a HAQ value >0.87 is associated with work disability in patients with RA.(AU)

Valor de corte de HAQ para predecir discapacidad laboral en pacientes con artritis reumatoidea / HAQ’s cut-off point to predict work disability in patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis

La discapacidad laboral ocurre de forma temprana en pacientes con Artritis Reumatoidea (AR), con un importante impacto socioeconómico. En estudios previos, el HAQ ha demostrado ser un fuerte predictor de pérdida del status laboral. Objetivos: Determinar el valor de corte de HAQ-A y otros factoresasociados a desocupación laboral en pacientes con AR. Material y métodos: Se incluyeron 309 pacientes con AR de la consulta ambulatoria del IREP. Se consignaron variables demográficas, socioeconómicas, manifestaciones extraarticulares y tratamientos recibidos. La actividad de la enfermedad fue evaluada por DAS28, daño radiológico de manos y pies por score de Sharp van der Heidje y capacidad funcional por HAQ-A. Resultados: 80 pacientes estaban desocupados, de los cuales en 49 la desocupación estaba relacionada con la AR (62%). En el análisis univariado, una menor edad, edad menor al inicio de la enfermedad y mayor valor de HAQ se asociaron significativamente con desocupación. En el análisis multivariado, la discapacidad medida por HAQ fue la única variable asociada. En el análisis por curvas ROC, un valor de corte de HAQ 0,87 tuvo una sensibilidad de 61% y una especificidad de 67% para predecir discapacidad laboral. Conclusiones: Este es el primer estudio en nuestro país, que demuestra que un valor de HAQ mayor de 0,87 se asoció con discapacidad laboral.

Work disability occurs early in patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) having a great socioeconomic impact. In previous studies it has been shown that HAQ is a strong predictor of work disability. Objective: To determine HAQ cut off values and other associated factors of work disability in RA patients. Material and methods: 309 RA patients were included. Demographic and socioeconomic variables, extraarticular manifestations and treatments received were collected. Disease activity was evaluated using DAS28, X Ray damage in hands and feet by Sharp van der Heijde score and functional capacity by HAQ. Results: 80 patients were not working, 49 of whom work disability was directly associated with the disease (62%). In univariate analysis younger age at disease onset and higher HAQ values were significantly associated with work disability. In the multivariate analysis only higher HAQ levels were significantly associated with work disability. In ROC curves analysed a cut off value of 0.87 in HAQ had a sensitivity of 61% and specificity of 67% to predict work disability. Conclusions: This is the first study in our country to determine that a HAQ value >0.87 is associated with work disability in patients with RA.

Influence of HLA-DR alleles on rheumatoid arthritis: susceptibility and severity in Argentine patients.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the frequency of shared epitopes in our population of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and to investigate whether the presence of these alleles is associated with a more aggressive form of disease. METHODS: Demographic and clinical data were obtained from 140 patients with RA, 123 female, mean age 49.9+/-11.7 years and mean disease duration 9.4+/-6.3 years. Radiographs of both hands were taken and scored by Larsen's method. HLA-DR alleles were determined by PCR-SSP. The control group comprised 202 healthy ethnic-matched subjects. RESULTS: DR4 was significantly more frequent in patients with RA than controls, and was observed in 70/140 patients (50%) versus 47/202 controls (23.27%) (odds ratio 3.25, CI 1.99-5.35, Pcorr 5 x 10(-5)). Within DR4 subtypes *0404 and *0401 were the most commonly found (37.7 and 29%, respectively). DR3 and DR11 exerted a protective effect with significantly higher frequency in controls than in patients with RA. When patients were divided into 2 groups according to disease severity (radiographic score) the frequency of alleles with QKRAA and QRRAA sequences was similar in both groups. Although with lower frequency, subtype *1001 alone was significantly more frequent in the severe-condition group [7 (13.5%) vs 3 (3.4%), p = 0.03]. CONCLUSION: These results are in accordance with findings observed in Caucasians and differ from other Latin American populations. However shared epitope alleles failed to correlate with more severe disease with the exception of subtype *1001 which, although infrequent, was significantly more frequent in patients with relevant radiological damage.

The effect of melatonin in patients with fibromyalgia: a pilot study.

The aim of the study was to determine the possible effect of melatonin treatment on disturbed sleep, fatigue and pain symptoms observed in fibromyalgia (FM) patients. Twenty-one consecutive patients with FM were included in an open 4-week-duration pilot study. Before and after treatment with melatonin 3 mg at bedtime, patients were evaluated using tender point count by palpation of 18 classic anatomical regions, pain score in four predesignated areas, pain severity on a 10 cm visual analogue scale (VAS), sleep disturbances, fatigue, depression, anxiety, and patient and physician global assessments, also by a VAS. Urine 6-sulphatoxymelatonin levels (aMT-6S) were measured in the patients and 20 age- and sex-matched controls. Nineteen patients completed the study. One patient withdrew because of migraine and another was lost to follow-up. At day 30, median values for the tender point count and severity of pain at selected points, patient and physician global assessments and VAS for sleep significantly improved with melatonin treatment. Other variables improved but did not reach statistical significance. Adverse events were mild and transient. Lower levels of aMT-6S were found in FM patients compared with normal median controls (+/-SD, 9.16 +/- 7.9 microg/24 h vs 16.8 +/- 12.8 microg/24 h) (p = 0.06). Although this is an open study, our preliminary results suggest that melatonin can be an alternative and safe treatment for patients with FM. Double-blind placebo controlled studies are needed.

[Urinary acidification and rheumatoid arthritis]. / Acidificacion urinaria y artritis reumatoidea.

The aim of this study was to investigate subclinical abnormalities in renal function suggestive of incomplete distal renal tubular acidosis (DRTA) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), using the gradient between PCO2 in urine and blood (U-B PCO2 gradient), which is a simple and sensitive test. We prospectively selected 45 patients in three groups (G). G 1 (n = 15p), with RA, mean age 44 years and mean disease duration 6.5 years. G2 (n = 10 p), with RA and Sjögren's syndrome (SS), mean age 47 years and mean disease duration 6.6 years. G 3 (n = 20) healthy volunteers, no history neither renal nor rheumatic diseases, mean age 37 years. Patients in G1 and G2 had no history of concurrent disease affecting renal parenchyma, their acid-base status and renal function were normal (Creatinine clearance above 70 ml/min/1.73m2). All patients received NSAIDs but none gold salts and/or D-Penicillamine. The ability to acidify the urine was evaluated in all cases by U-B PCO2 gradient, after a 500 ml NaHCO3 continuous infusion 1 molar solution through a peripheral vein. U-B PCO2 lower than 30 was considered pathological and diagnostic for DRTA. The urinary specimen for pH and PCO2 were kept under mineral oil and processed within 5 minutes of excretion. The blood samples for PCO2 were obtained from a peripheral vein and measured after obtaining a urinary pH 7.8 or above, pH and PCO2 were measured with a BMS 3 MK2 Radiometer, Copenhagen Denmark electrode and analizer. The U-BPCO2 results were (mean 2 sd): G1 = 47 +/- 26; G2 = 49.8 +/- 8.4; G3 = 52.5 +/- 12.2. There were no statistical differences among the three groups (F = 1.228727). In the G1, a single patient presented U-B PCO2 lower than 30 (U-B PCO2 = 5), having a long active disease at the evaluation time. In G2 and G3 no gradient alterations were recorded. We conclude, in spite of the fact that U-B PCO2 gradient is a very useful and sensitive tool for detecting dRTA, that there was no correlation between incomplete type dRTA and RA or between incomplete dRTA and RA associated to SS. In addition, no association was found between NSAID intake and dRTA.

Human immunodeficiency virus infection search for musculoskeletal manifestations and mimicking of rheumatologic disorders.

This study involved 50 human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive patients in various stages of the disease to identify signs and symptoms suggestive of rheumatologic disorders and to determine how frequently such findings mimic rheumatologic pictures. Control subjects were 25 ambulatory HIV-negative patients with similar risk factors, mostly drug abuse. Although arthralgias and myalgias were reported in both groups, arthritis was only detected in the HIV-positive group. Twenty-four HIV cases presented two or more signs or symptoms suggestive of rheumatic disorders versus only six non-HIV cases (p < 0.04). Some features were suggestive of systemic lupus erythematosus, vasculitis-panarteritis nodosa, Sjögren's syndrome, Behcet's syndrome and rheumatoid arthritis, although no patients met criteria for these diseases. Reiter's syndrome was diagnosed in two (4%) HIV-positive patients. On correlating CD4 lymphocyte levels and rheumatic symptomatology, the more severely immunocompromised cases were found to present musculoskeletal manifestations with greater frequency. Potential HIV infection should be considered in differential diagnosis of questionable cases of rheumatic disease to avoid both misdiagnosis and the institution of therapies liable to worsen the immunodeficiency syndrome.