Corrigendum: The paradigm of IL-23-independent production of IL-17F and IL-17A and their role in chronic inflammatory diseases.

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1191782.].

The paradigm of IL-23-independent production of IL-17F and IL-17A and their role in chronic inflammatory diseases.

Interleukin-17 family (IL-17s) comprises six structurally related members (IL-17A to IL-17F); sequence homology is highest between IL-17A and IL-17F, displaying certain overlapping functions. In general, IL-17A and IL-17F play important roles in chronic inflammation and autoimmunity, controlling bacterial and fungal infections, and signaling mainly through activation of the nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) pathway. The role of IL-17A and IL-17F has been established in chronic immune-mediated inflammatory diseases (IMIDs), such as psoriasis (PsO), psoriatic arthritis (PsA), axial spondylarthritis (axSpA), hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), multiple sclerosis (MS), and asthma. CD4+ helper T cells (Th17) activated by IL-23 are well-studied sources of IL-17A and IL-17F. However, other cellular subtypes can also produce IL-17A and IL-17F, including gamma delta (γδ) T cells, alpha beta (αß) T cells, type 3 innate lymphoid cells (ILC3), natural killer T cells (NKT), or mucosal associated invariant T cells (MAIT). Interestingly, the production of IL-17A and IL-17F by innate and innate-like lymphocytes can take place in an IL-23 independent manner in addition to IL-23 classical pathway. This would explain the limitations of the inhibition of IL-23 in the treatment of patients with certain rheumatic immune-mediated conditions such as axSpA. Despite their coincident functions, IL-17A and IL-17F contribute independently to chronic tissue inflammation having somehow non-redundant roles. Although IL-17A has been more widely studied, both IL-17A and IL-17F are overexpressed in PsO, PsA, axSpA and HS. Therefore, dual inhibition of IL-17A and IL-17F could provide better outcomes than IL-23 or IL-17A blockade.

Recursos y estrategias para optimizar el manejo de los pacientes con artritis psoriásica: proyecto CREA / Strategies and resources to optimise the management of Psoriatic Arthritis patients: the CREA Project

Antecedentes y objetivo: La artritis psoriásica (APs) es una enfermedad inflamatoria crónica mediada por el sistema inmune que afecta al sistema musculoesquelético y la piel, y se manifiesta de forma heterogénea y con un curso variable. En la práctica clínica habitual se ha observado variabilidad y limitaciones en su seguimiento. El objetivo del proyecto CREA fue consensuar estrategias de mejora para la valoración inicial y el seguimiento de los pacientes con APs en España. Materiales y métodos: Se realizó una encuesta a una muestra representativa de reumatólogos expertos del territorio español, que contenía 33 preguntas sobre la práctica clínica habitual, los recursos disponibles y las limitaciones actuales en el seguimiento de los pacientes con APs. Se discutieron los resultados en reuniones regionales y se propusieron 105 estrategias que, finalmente, fueron valoradas por 85 expertos en un consenso Delphi. Resultados: Las limitaciones destacadas en el seguimiento de la APs fueron la falta de tiempo en consulta, de personal de enfermería, y el retraso en la realización de pruebas de imagen. Se propusieron 108 estrategias relacionadas con la evaluación de los índices de calidad de vida e impacto de la enfermedad; las comorbilidades y las manifestaciones extraarticulares; las pruebas de laboratorio; las pruebas de imagen; la exploración física y metrología y los índices de actividad y función. Entre todas, 53 se consideraron altamente aconsejables, sin diferencias regionales en los valores de consenso. Discusión y conclusiones: Las propuestas ofrecidas en el estudio actual son aplicables a todo el territorio nacional, responden a las necesidades no cubiertas detectadas en la encuesta inicial, conforman un cuadro de actuación mínimo y aseguran un seguimiento óptimo de los pacientes con APs.(AU)

Background and aim: Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a chronic immune-mediated inflammatory disease that affects the musculoskeletal system and skin, and manifests heterogeneously, with a variable course. In current clinical practice, variability and limitations in its follow-up have been observed. The aim of the CREA project was to agree on strategies to improve the initial assessment and follow-up of patients with PsA in Spain. Materials and methods: A survey was conducted among a representative sample of expert rheumatologists in Spain, containing 33 questions on current clinical practice, available resources, and current limitations in the follow-up of patients with PsA. The results were discussed in regional meetings and 105 strategies were proposed and finally evaluated by 85 experts in a Delphi consensus. Results: The most important limitations in the follow-up of PsA were lack of consultation time, lack of nursing staff, and delays in performing imaging tests. A total of 108 strategies were proposed related to the assessment of quality of life and disease-impact indices; comorbidities and extra-articular manifestations; laboratory tests; imaging tests; physical examination and metrology; and activity and function indices. Of the total, 53 were considered highly advisable, with no regional differences in consensus values. Discussion and conclusions: The proposals offered in the current study are applicable to the entire country, respond to the unmet needs detected in the initial survey, form a minimum action framework, and ensure optimal follow-up of patients with PsA.(AU)

Recursos y estrategias para la óptima atención de los pacientes con espondiloartritis axial: Proyecto CREA / Resources and Strategies for the Optimal Care of Patients With Axial Spondyloarthritis: The CREA Project

Antecedentes y objetivo: La espondiloartritis axial (EspAax) es una enfermedad musculoesquelética con manifestaciones diversas. En la práctica clínica se ha observado variabilidad y limitaciones en la recogida de las variables necesarias para su seguimiento. El objetivo del proyecto CREA fue consensuar estrategias de mejora para la valoración inicial y el seguimiento de los pacientes con EspAax en España. Materiales y métodos: Se realizó una encuesta con 33 preguntas a una muestra representativa de reumatólogos expertos del territorio español sobre la práctica clínica, los recursos y las limitaciones actuales en el seguimiento de los pacientes con EspAax. En 10 reuniones regionales se discutieron los resultados de la encuesta y se propusieron 107 estrategias que fueron valoradas mediante un consenso Delphi en el que participaron 85 expertos. Resultados: La falta de tiempo en consulta, de personal de enfermería y/o de apoyo, y el retraso en la realización de pruebas de imagen fueron las limitaciones más destacadas en el seguimiento de los pacientes con EspAax. Se propusieron 202 estrategias relacionadas con la evaluación de los índices de calidad de vida e impacto de la enfermedad; las comorbilidades y manifestaciones extraarticulares; las pruebas de laboratorio; las pruebas de imagen; la exploración física y metrología; y los índices de actividad y función. De todas, 54 se consideraron altamente aconsejables. No se encontraron diferencias regionales en los valores de consenso. Conclusiones: Las propuestas consensuadas como altamente aconsejables en el estudio actual son aplicables a todo el territorio nacional, permiten realizar un seguimiento y control más estrecho y homogéneo de los pacientes con EspAax, facilitar un manejo integral y responden a las necesidades no cubiertas detectadas en la encuesta inicial.(AU)

Background and objective: Axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) are musculoskeletal diseases with different manifestations. In clinical practice, variability, and limitations in the collection of the outcomes required for follow-up have been observed. The objective of the CREA project was to agree on improvement strategies for the initial assessment and follow-up of patients with axSpA in Spain. Materials and methods: A survey with 33 questions was conducted by a representative sample of rheumatologists on clinical practice, resources, and present limitations in the follow-up of patients with axSpA. The results of the survey were discussed in 10 regional meetings, and 105 strategies were proposed and evaluated through a Delphi consensus in which 85 experts participated. Results: The lack of time for clinical visits, the lack of nurses and/or support staff and the delay in performing the imaging tests were the most prominent limitations in the follow-up of patients with axSpA. One hundred and five strategies were proposed related to the evaluation of disease activity, physical function, quality of life and disease impact, to the evaluation of comorbidities and extra-articular manifestations, laboratory tests; imaging tests, physical examination and metrology. Of the total, 85 were considered highly advisable. No regional differences were found. Conclusions: The proposals agreed upon as highly advisable in the present study are applicable to the entire national territory, allow tighter and more homogeneous monitoring of the patients with axSpA, facilitate more comprehensive management of the disease, and respond to the unmet needs detected in the initial survey.(AU)

Resources and strategies for the optimal care of patients with axial spondyloarthritis: The CREA project.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) are musculoskeletal diseases with different manifestations. In clinical practice, variability, and limitations in the collection of the outcomes required for follow-up have been observed. The objective of the CREA project was to agree on improvement strategies for the initial assessment and follow-up of patients with axSpA in Spain. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A survey with 33 questions was conducted by a representative sample of rheumatologists on clinical practice, resources, and present limitations in the follow-up of patients with axSpA. The results of the survey were discussed in 10 regional meetings, and 105 strategies were proposed and evaluated through a Delphi consensus in which 85 experts participated. RESULTS: The lack of time for clinical visits, the lack of nurses and/or support staff and the delay in performing the imaging tests were the most prominent limitations in the follow-up of patients with axSpA. One hundred and five strategies were proposed related to the evaluation of disease activity, physical function, quality of life and disease impact, to the evaluation of comorbidities and extra-articular manifestations, laboratory tests; imaging tests, physical examination and metrology. Of the total, 85 were considered highly advisable. No regional differences were found. CONCLUSIONS: The proposals agreed upon as highly advisable in the present study are applicable to the entire national territory, allow tighter and more homogeneous monitoring of the patients with axSpA, facilitate more comprehensive management of the disease, and respond to the unmet needs detected in the initial survey.

Strategies and resources to optimise the management of Psoriatic Arthritis patients: The CREA Project.

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a chronic immune-mediated inflammatory disease that affects the musculoskeletal system and skin, and manifests heterogeneously, with a variable course. In current clinical practice, variability and limitations in its follow-up have been observed. The aim of the CREA project was to agree on strategies to improve the initial assessment and follow-up of patients with PsA in Spain. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A survey was conducted among a representative sample of expert rheumatologists in Spain, containing 33 questions on current clinical practice, available resources, and current limitations in the follow-up of patients with PsA. The results were discussed in regional meetings and 105 strategies were proposed and finally evaluated by 85 experts in a Delphi consensus. RESULTS: The most important limitations in the follow-up of PsA were lack of consultation time, lack of nursing staff, and delays in performing imaging tests. A total of 108 strategies were proposed related to the assessment of quality of life and disease-impact indices; comorbidities and extra-articular manifestations; laboratory tests; imaging tests; physical examination and metrology; and activity and function indices. Of the total, 53 were considered highly advisable, with no regional differences in consensus values. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS: The proposals offered in the current study are applicable to the entire country, respond to the unmet needs detected in the initial survey, form a minimum action framework, and ensure optimal follow-up of patients with PsA.

Propuestas para la incorporación del rol de enfermería en la certificación de unidades de espondiloartritis axial. Revisión bibliográfica y consenso entre expertas / Proposals for the Incorporation of the Nursing role in the Certification of Axial Spondyloarthritis Units. Literature Review and Expert Consensus

Objetivo: Analizar el papel de enfermería en el abordaje de la espondiloartritis axial (EspAax) y plantear propuestas que permitan incluir el rol de las consultas de enfermería en reumatología (CER) en la certificación de calidad de las unidades especializadas. Métodos: Revisión sistemática del rol de enfermería en los sistemas de certificación de calidad en el abordaje de la EspAax, seguida de conferencia de consenso con participación de 3enfermeras especializadas en reumatología para determinar elementos que considerar en futuras revisiones de las normas de certificación. Resultados: La revisión sistemática arrojó 5documentos relevantes. Ninguna de las publicaciones revisadas proponía estándares aplicables a la labor asistencial de enfermería en el manejo de pacientes con EspAax, aunque contemplaban actividades propias de este colectivo. Las propuestas consensuadas para incorporar el rol de las CER en las normas de certificación de las unidades monográficas de EspAax incluyeron: equipamientos y recursos básicos, organización, administración de tratamientos farmacológicos y promoción de la adherencia, programas estandarizados para EspAax, consulta telemática para control del paciente estable y promoción de la continuidad asistencial y registro de medidas de resultados informados por los pacientes. Conclusiones: La literatura sobre estándares de calidad y normas de certificación de las unidades monográficas de EspAax es escasa y apenas refleja el papel de las CER en la provisión de una atención de calidad. Las propuestas consensuadas en este trabajo incorporarían las CER en las normas de certificación de calidad. En el futuro, la mayor presencia de CER en España debiera ir acompañada de la actualización de los estándares.(AU)

Objective: To analyse the role of nursing in the approach to axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) and to make proposals to include the role of rheumatology nursing consultations (RECs) in the quality certification of these specialized units. Methods: A systematic review of the nursing role in quality certification systems in the management of axSpA was conducted. Subsequently a consensus conference was held with the participation of 3rheumatology nurses to determine elements that should be considered in future revisions of certification standards. Results: The systematic review yielded 5papers as relevant. None of the publications reviewed explicitly proposed standards applicable to nursing care in the management of patients with axSpA, although they contemplated the activities of this professional group. The proposals agreed upon to incorporate the role of RECs in the certification standards for axSpA monographic units included the following: basic equipment and resources, organization, administration of pharmacological treatments and promotion of adherence, standardized programmes for axSpA, telematic consultation (e-consultation) for monitoring the stable patient and promoting continuity of care and registry of patient-reported outcome measures. Conclusions: The literature on quality standards and certification standards for axSpA monographic units is scarce and hardly reflects the role of RECs in providing quality care. The consensus proposals in this study would incorporate RECs into quality certification standards. In the future, the increased presence of RECs in Spain should be accompanied by a review of the indicators regarding their role.(AU)

Estándares de calidad en Atención Primaria para pacientes con espondiloartritis axial: una revisión de la literatura / Quality standards in Primary Care for patients with axial spondyloarthritis. A literature review

Introducción: la espondiloartrtis axial (Esp-Ax) es una enfermedad inflamatoria crónica del esqueleto axial. Su inicio insidioso y baja prevalencia dificultan un diagnóstico temprano. Por eso cada vez más el involucramiento de la Atención Primaria y el médico de familia gana más relevancia para una adecuada coordinación para el control de la enfermedad y la detección oportuna de comorbilidades. El objetivo de este estudio fue identificar estándares de calidad para la atención de pacientes con Esp-Ax con especial énfasis en la Atención Primaria. Métodos: se hizo una revisión de la literatura en las siguientes bases de datos: MEDLINE, EMBASE y Cochrane Library para la identificación de publicaciones y literatura gris que validen o reporten estándares de calidad para la atención de pacientes con Esp-Ax, con especial énfasis en la Atención Primaria. No se aplicaron restricciones de idioma, fecha ni de tipología de documentos para obtener una búsqueda más amplia. Resultados: fueron identificados 161 documentos, de los cuales 3 cumplieron con los criterios de inclusión. Los estándares fueron agrupados siguiendo el modelo de Donabedian, 7 estándares de estructura, 3 estándares de proceso y 10 estándares de resultado. Conclusiones. La mejora de la práctica clínica depende de la identificación de oportunidades de mejora. Los estándares de calidad persiguen este objetivo, para disminuir la variabilidad clínica, mejorar los resultados y aumentar la satisfacción de las personas con la atención prestada.(AU)

Introduction: axial spondyloarthritis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the axial skeleton. Its insidious onset and low prevalence make early diagnosis difficult. Therefore, the involvement of primary care and family physicians is becoming more relevant for adequate coordination for control of the disease and the timely detection of comorbidities. The aim of this study was to identify quality standards for the care of Sp-Ax patients with a special emphasis on primary care. Methods: a literature review was performed in the following databases: MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library to identify publications and grey literature that validate or report quality standards for the care of Sp-Ax patients with a special emphasis on primary care. No language, date or document type restrictions were made to obtain a broader search. Result: a total of 161 documents were identified of which three met the inclusion criteria. The standards were grouped according to the Donabedian model, seven structure standards, three process standards, and 10 outcome standards. Conclusions: improving clinical practice depends on identifying opportunities for improvement. Quality standards pursue this objective to reduce clinical variability, improve outcomes and increase people's satisfaction with the care provided.(AU)

Proposals for the incorporation of the nursing role in the certification of axial spondyloarthritis units. Literature review and expert consensus.

OBJECTIVE: To analyse the role of nursing in the approach to axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) and to make proposals to include the role of rheumatology nursing consultations (RECs) in the quality certification of these specialized units. METHODS: A systematic review of the nursing role in quality certification systems in the management of axSpA was conducted. Subsequently a consensus conference was held with the participation of three rheumatology nurses to determine elements that should be considered in future revisions of certification standards. RESULTS: The systematic review yielded five papers as relevant. None of the publications reviewed explicitly proposed standards applicable to nursing care in the management of patients with axSpA, although they contemplated the activities of this professional group. The proposals agreed upon to incorporate the role of RECs in the certification standards for axSpA monographic units included the following: basic equipment and resources, organization, administration of pharmacological treatments and promotion of adherence, standardized programmes for axSpA, telematic consultation for monitoring the stable patient, registry of patient-reported outcome measures and e-consultation. CONCLUSIONS: The literature on quality standards and certification standards for axSpA monographic units is scarce and hardly reflects the role of RECs in providing quality care. The consensus proposals in this study would incorporate RECs into quality certification standards. In the future, the increased presence of RECs in Spain should be accompanied by a review of the indicators regarding their role.

Similarities and differences between non-radiographic and radiographic axial spondyloarthritis: The patient perspective from the Spanish atlas.

AIM: Although non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis (EspAax-nr) is well understood within health institutions, being considered along with radiographic EspAax (EspAax-r) as part of the same disease spectrum, patient understanding is unknown. The aim is to describe the patient's knowledge of the EspAax-nr entity. METHODS: Atlas 2017, promoted by the Spanish Federation of Spondylarthritis Associations (CEADE), aims to comprehensively understand the reality of EspAax patients from a holistic approach. A cross-sectional on-line survey of unselected patients with self-reported EspAax diagnosis from Spain was conducted. Participants were asked to report their diagnosis. Socio-demographic, disease characteristics and patient-reported outcomes (PROs) were compared between those patients self-reporting as EspAax-nr and EspAax-r. RESULTS: 634 EspAax patients participated. Mean age 45.7±10.9 years, 50.9% female and 36.1% university-educated. 35 (5.2%) self-reported as EspAax-nr. Compared to EspAax-r patients, those with EspAax-nr were more frequently women (48.6% vs 91.4%, p<0.001), had longer diagnostic delay (10.1±8.9 vs 8.5±7.6 years), higher psychological distress (GHQ-12: 7.5±4.9 vs 5.6±4.4) and similar degree of disease activity (BASDAI: 5.7±2.1 vs 5.7±2.0), and unemployment rates (20.0% vs 21.6%). 20.0% of EspAax-nr received biologics vs 36.9% of EspAax-r, p=0.043. Visits to the rheumatologist in the past year were similar in both groups (3.8±4.5 vs 3.2±3.8), while GP visits were much higher within EspAax-nr (8.0±10.7 vs 4.9±13.3 p=0.003). CONCLUSION: For the first time, EspAax-nr characteristics and PROs have been analyzed from the patient's perspective. Both groups reported similar trends with the exception of EspAax-nr being more frequently women, younger, having longer diagnostic delay and lower use of biologic therapy.

Similarities and differences between non-radiographic and radiographic axial spondyloarthritis: The patient perspective from the Spanish atlas / Similitudes y diferencias entre espondiloartritis axial no radiográfica y radiográfica: perspectiva del paciente utilizando la versión española del Atlas

Aim: Although non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis (EspAax-nr) is well understood within health institutions, being considered along with radiographic EspAax (EspAax-r) as part of the same disease spectrum, patient understanding is unknown. The aim is to describe the patient's knowledge of the EspAax-nr entity. Methods: Atlas 2017, promoted by the Spanish Federation of Spondylarthritis Associations (CEADE), aims to comprehensively understand the reality of EspAax patients from a holistic approach. A cross-sectional on-line survey of unselected patients with self-reported EspAax diagnosis from Spain was conducted. Participants were asked to report their diagnosis. Socio-demographic, disease characteristics and patient-reported outcomes (PROs) were compared between those patients self-reporting as EspAax-nr and EspAax-r. Results: 634 EspAax patients participated. Mean age 45.7±10.9 years, 50.9% female and 36.1% university-educated. 35 (5.2%) self-reported as EspAax-nr. Compared to EspAax-r patients, those with EspAax-nr were more frequently women (48.6% vs 91.4%, p<0.001), had longer diagnostic delay (10.1±8.9 vs 8.5±7.6 years), higher psychological distress (GHQ-12: 7.5±4.9 vs 5.6±4.4) and similar degree of disease activity (BASDAI: 5.7±2.1 vs 5.7±2.0), and unemployment rates (20.0% vs 21.6%). 20.0% of EspAax-nr received biologics vs 36.9% of EspAax-r, p=0.043. Visits to the rheumatologist in the past year were similar in both groups (3.8±4.5 vs 3.2±3.8), while GP visits were much higher within EspAax-nr (8.0±10.7 vs 4.9±13.3 p=0.003). Conclusion: For the first time, EspAax-nr characteristics and PROs have been analyzed from the patient's perspective. Both groups reported similar trends with the exception of EspAax-nr being more frequently women, younger, having longer diagnostic delay and lower use of biologic therapy.(AU)

Objetivo: Aunque se comprende bien la espondiloartritis axial no radiográfica (EspAax-nr) dentro de las instituciones sanitarias, se desconoce la comprensión del paciente cuando se considera conjuntamente con la espondiloartritis axial radiográfica (r-axSpA), como parte del mismo espectro de la enfermedad. El objetivo de este artículo es describir el conocimiento del paciente de la entidad EspAax-nr. Métodos: El objetivo de Atlas 2017, promovido por la Federación Española de Asociaciones de Espondiloartritis (CEADE), es comprender la realidad de los pacientes con espondiloartritis axial (EspAax) desde un enfoque holístico. Se realizó una encuesta transversal online a pacientes españoles no seleccionados, con diagnóstico autoreportado de axSpA. Se solicitó a los participantes que informaran su diagnóstico. Se compararon las características sociodemográficas y los resultados reportados por el paciente (RPO) entre los pacientes que autoreportaron EspAax-nr y EspAax-r. Resultados: Participaron 634 pacientes de EspAax, con edad media de 45,7 ± 10,9 años, siendo mujeres el 50,9%, y un 36,1% con formación universitaria. Treinta y cinco de ellas (5,2%) autoreportaron EspAax-nr. En comparación con los pacientes de EspAax-r, aquellos con EspAax-nr eran mujeres con mayor frecuencia (48,6 vs. 91,4%, p < 0,001), tenían mayor demora en el diagnóstico (10,1 ± 8,9 vs. 8,5 ± 7,6 años), y mayor grado de angustia psicológica (12-item general health questionnaire [GHQ-12]: 7,5 ± 4,9 vs. 5,6 ± 4,4) y grado similar de actividad de la enfermedad (bath ankylosing spondylitis disease activity index [BASDAI]: 5,7 ± 2,1 vs. 5,7 ± 2), y tasas de desempleo (20 vs. 21,6%). El 20% de los pacientes de EspAax-nr recibían terapia biológica vs. el 36,9% de pacientes de r-axSpA, p = 0,043. (AU)

Remission in axial spondyloarthritis: Developing a consensus definition / Remisión en espondiloartritis axial: desarrollo de una definición de consenso

Objective: To reach a consensus on the tools available to evaluate disease activity in patients with axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA), and to develop a consensus definition of remission in axSpA. Methods: A modified Delphi method was used. A scientific committee proposed statements addressing the assessment of axSpA in clinical practice and the definition of remission. The questionnaire was evaluated in 2 rounds by rheumatologists from GRESSER (GRupo de Estudio de ESpondiloartritis de la Sociedad Española de Reumatología). Results: After 2 rounds of evaluation, a panel of 81 rheumatologists reached agreement on 56 out of the 80 proposed items (72.0%). There was agreement that the definition of remission in axSpA should include: disease activity, pain, fatigue, peripheral involvement, extra-articular manifestations, laboratory tests, functional impairment, mobility, quality of life, need for treatment, radiographic progression, and patient and physician global assessments. It is recommended to set a therapeutic goal when starting a treatment. The ideal goal is remission although low disease activity may also be an acceptable alternative. The Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Score (ASDAS) is the preferred tool to assess disease activity. The panel made a proposal for clinical remission in axSpA based on the ASDAS cut-off value for inactive disease, the absence of extra-articular (acute anterior uveitis, psoriasis, inflammatory bowel disease) and peripheral (arthritis, enthesitis, dactylitis) manifestations, plus normal C-reactive protein levels and absence of radiographic progression. Conclusion: This work offers consensus recommendations and a proposal of clinical remission that may be useful in the management of patients with axSpA.(AU)

Objetivo: Alcanzar un consenso sobre las herramientas disponibles para evaluar la actividad de la enfermedad en pacientes con espondiloartritis axial (EspAax) y desarrollar una definición de consenso de remisión. Métodos: Se utilizó una metodología Delphi modificada. Un comité científico propuso aseveraciones sobre la evaluación de EspAax en la práctica clínica y la definición de remisión. El cuestionario fue evaluado en 2 rondas por reumatólogos de GRESSER.Resultados: Tras 2 rondas de evaluación, un panel de 81 reumatólogos alcanzó un consenso en 56 de los 80 ítems propuestos (72,0%). Hubo acuerdo en que la definición de remisión en EspAax debe incluir: actividad de la enfermedad, dolor, fatiga, afectación periférica, manifestaciones extraarticulares, pruebas de laboratorio, deterioro funcional, movilidad, calidad de vida, necesidad de tratamiento, progresión radiográfica y evaluación global del médico y el paciente. Se recomienda establecer un objetivo terapéutico al iniciar un tratamiento. El objetivo ideal es la remisión, aunque la baja actividad de la enfermedad también puede ser una alternativa aceptable. ASDAS es la herramienta preferida para evaluar la actividad de la enfermedad. El panel hizo una propuesta de remisión en EspAax basada en los valores de corte de ASDAS para enfermedad inactiva, la ausencia de manifestaciones extraarticulares (uveítis anterior aguda, psoriasis, enfermedad inflamatoria intestinal) y periféricas (artritis, entesitis, dactilitis), junto con niveles normales de proteína C reactiva y ausencia de progresión radiográfica. Conclusiones: Este trabajo ofrece recomendaciones de consenso y una propuesta de definición de remisión que puede ser útil en el tratamiento de pacientes con EspAax.(AU)

Remission in axial spondyloarthritis: Developing a consensus definition.

OBJECTIVE: To reach a consensus on the tools available to evaluate disease activity in patients with axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA), and to develop a consensus definition of remission in axSpA. METHODS: A modified Delphi method was used. A scientific committee proposed statements addressing the assessment of axSpA in clinical practice and the definition of remission. The questionnaire was evaluated in 2 rounds by rheumatologists from GRESSER (GRupo de Estudio de ESpondiloartritis de la Sociedad Española de Reumatología). RESULTS: After 2 rounds of evaluation, a panel of 81 rheumatologists reached agreement on 56 out of the 80 proposed items (72.0%). There was agreement that the definition of remission in axSpA should include: disease activity, pain, fatigue, peripheral involvement, extra-articular manifestations, laboratory tests, functional impairment, mobility, quality of life, need for treatment, radiographic progression, and patient and physician global assessments. It is recommended to set a therapeutic goal when starting a treatment. The ideal goal is remission although low disease activity may also be an acceptable alternative. The Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Score (ASDAS) is the preferred tool to assess disease activity. The panel made a proposal for clinical remission in axSpA based on the ASDAS cut-off value for inactive disease, the absence of extra-articular (acute anterior uveitis, psoriasis, inflammatory bowel disease) and peripheral (arthritis, enthesitis, dactylitis) manifestations, plus normal C-reactive protein levels and absence of radiographic progression. CONCLUSION: This work offers consensus recommendations and a proposal of clinical remission that may be useful in the management of patients with axSpA.

Comparative results of the implementation in daily practice of an evaluation checklist for patients with axial spondyloarthritis and psoriatic arthritis.

OBJECTIVE: To analyse and compare changes in the collection of clinical variables after the implementation in daily practice of an evaluation checklist for patients with axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) and psoriatic arthritis (PsA). METHODS: An observational study was performed based on medical records review. The number and type of variables of the evaluation checklist in the medical records were collected. The first review was made before the implementation of the checklist, and the second one 6 months after the implementation (in different patients). A descriptive and bivariate analysis was carried out. RESULTS: Six hospitals and 11 rheumatologists participated. A total of 83 and 68 medical records were reviewed before and after the implementation of the checklist. After the implementation, in the axSpA patients, a significant increase was recorded in alcohol consumption, diarrhoea or IBD and urethritis, diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidaemia, depression, obesity or gout/hyperuricaemia, weight, height, blood pressure, patient and physician global assessments of disease activity, BASDAI and DAS28. And, in the PsA patients, alcohol consumption, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidaemia, disease, gout/hyperuricaemia, thoracic expansion, cervical rotation, weight, height, blood pressure, patient and physician global assessments of disease, ASDAS, BASDAI, and BASFI were recorded. In general, there was a trend towards greater recording in axSpA compared with PsA. CONCLUSIONS: The implementation of a specific checklist in daily practice improves the evaluation of patients with axSpA and PsA. More efforts are necessary to continue improving the evaluation of patients with axSpA, but especially of those with PsA.

Similarities and differences between non-radiographic and radiographic axial spondyloarthritis: The patient perspective from the Spanish atlas.

AIM: Although non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis (EspAax-nr) is well understood within health institutions, being considered along with radiographic EspAax (EspAax-r) as part of the same disease spectrum, patient understanding is unknown. The aim is to describe the patient's knowledge of the EspAax-nr entity. METHODS: Atlas 2017, promoted by the Spanish Federation of Spondylarthritis Associations (CEADE), aims to comprehensively understand the reality of EspAax patients from a holistic approach. A cross-sectional on-line survey of unselected patients with self-reported EspAax diagnosis from Spain was conducted. Participants were asked to report their diagnosis. Socio-demographic, disease characteristics and patient-reported outcomes (PROs) were compared between those patients self-reporting as EspAax-nr and EspAax-r. RESULTS: 634 EspAax patients participated. Mean age 45.7±10.9 years, 50.9% female and 36.1% university-educated. 35 (5.2%) self-reported as EspAax-nr. Compared to EspAax-r patients, those with EspAax-nr were more frequently women (48.6% vs 91.4%, p<0.001), had longer diagnostic delay (10.1±8.9 vs 8.5±7.6 years), higher psychological distress (GHQ-12: 7.5±4.9 vs 5.6±4.4) and similar degree of disease activity (BASDAI: 5.7±2.1 vs 5.7±2.0), and unemployment rates (20.0% vs 21.6%). 20.0% of EspAax-nr received biologics vs 36.9% of EspAax-r, p=0.043. Visits to the rheumatologist in the past year were similar in both groups (3.8±4.5 vs 3.2±3.8), while GP visits were much higher within EspAax-nr (8.0±10.7 vs 4.9±13.3 p=0.003). CONCLUSION: For the first time, EspAax-nr characteristics and PROs have been analyzed from the patient's perspective. Both groups reported similar trends with the exception of EspAax-nr being more frequently women, younger, having longer diagnostic delay and lower use of biologic therapy.

Consenso ASAS en nomenclatura en español para las espondiloartritis / Assessment of SpondyloArthritis International Society (ASAS) consensus on Spanish nomenclature for spondyloarthritis

OBJETIVO: Desarrollar un documento de consenso para estandarizar los términos, abreviaturas y acrónimos en español empleados en el campo de las espondiloartritis (EspA). MÉTODOS: Se creó un grupo de trabajo internacional compuesto por todos los miembros de Assessment of SpondyloArthritis International Society (ASAS) nativos de habla española, miembros del comité ejecutivo del Grupo para el estudio de la Espondiloartritis de la Sociedad Española de Reumatología (GRESSER), 2 metodólogos, 2 lingüistas de la Real Academia Nacional de Medicina de España (RANM) y 2 pacientes de la Coordinadora Española de Asociaciones de Espondilitis (CEADE). Se realizó una revisión de la literatura de los últimos 15 años (publicaciones, el CIE y CIF, guías, consensos y recomendaciones) para identificar los términos, abreviaturas y acrónimos discrepantes. Mediante un Delphi de 3 rondas y una reunión presencial, se discutieron, seleccionaron y acordaron los términos, abreviaturas y acrónimos a utilizar. Durante todo este proceso se siguieron las recomendaciones de la RANM basadas en el Diccionario panhispánico de términos médicos. RESULTADOS: Se consensuaron 46 términos, abreviaturas y acrónimos. Se aceptó la traducción al español para 6 términos y 6 abreviaturas empleados para nombrar o clasificar la enfermedad y para 6 términos y 4 abreviaturas relacionados con las EspA. Se acordó no traducir 15 acrónimos por estar ya establecidos, pero al mencionarlos, se recomendó seguir esta estructura: tipo de acrónimo en español y acrónimo y forma extensa en inglés. Con respecto a 7 términos o abreviaturas asociados a acrónimos, se acordó traducir solo la forma extensa y se consensuó una traducción. CONCLUSIONES: Con esta estandarización del lenguaje de las EspA se pretende establecer un uso común de la nomenclatura en español para las EspA. Su implementación será muy beneficiosa, evitando malentendidos y consumo de recursos

OBJECTIVE: To develop a consensus to standardize the use of Spanish terms, abbreviations and acronyms in the field of spondyloarthritis (SpA). METHODS: An international task force comprising all native Spanish-speaking Assessment of SpondyloArthritis International Society (ASAS) members, the executive committee of Grupo para el estudio de la Espondiloartritis de la Sociedad Española de Reumatología (GRESSER), two methodologists, two linguists from the Real Academia Nacional de Medicina de España (RANM) and two patients from the Spanish Coordinator of Spondylitis Associations (CEADE) was established. A literature review was performed to identify the conflicting terms/abbreviations/acronyms in SpA. This review examined written sources in Spanish including manuscripts, ICF and ICD, guidelines, recommendations and consensuses. This was followed by a nominal group meeting and a three-round Delphi. The recommendations from the RANM based on the Panhispanic dictionary were followed throughout the process. RESULTS: Consensus was reached for 46 terms, abbreviations or acronyms related to the field of SpA. A Spanish translation was accepted for 6 terms and 6 abbreviations to name or classify the disease, and for 6 terms and 4 abbreviations related to SpA. It was agreed not to translate 15 acronyms into Spanish. However, when mentioning them, it was recommended to follow this structure: type of acronym in Spanish and acronym and expanded form in English. With regard to 7 terms or abbreviations attached to acronyms, it was agreed to translate only the expanded form and a translation was also selected for each of them. CONCLUSIONS: Through this standardization, it is expected to establish a common use of the Spanish nomenclature for SpA. The implementation of this consensus across the community will be of substantial benefit, avoiding misunderstandings and time-consuming processes

Implementation of an assessment checklist for patients with spondyloarthritis in daily practice.

OBJECTIVES: To analyse the feasibility and changes in the collection of clinical measures after the implementation in daily practice of a checklist designed for an optimal evaluation and monitoring of patients with spondyloarthritis (SpA). METHODS: An observational prospective study was performed. The feasibility of the assessment checklist (paper/on-line format) for patients with SpA was tested (time to complete the checklist, simplicity, amenity clarity, usefulness). Through a medical files review, changes in the number of the checklist variables collected were analysed previous to the implementation of the checklist and 6 months later. A descriptive and bivariate analysis was performed. RESULTS: A total 6 hospitals and 11 rheumatologists participated. The median time to checklist completion was 15 (12-20) minutes, and the mean scores for the rest of variables of the feasibility test were in general positives. A total of 83 and 68 medical files pre-implementation and post-implementation were reviewed respectively. We observed a significant increase in the collection of many of the checklist variables after the implementation. The record of BASDAI increased from 46.2% to 73.1% (p=0.001), physical activity from 48.2% to 88.2% (p<0.0001), physician global (VAS) from 28.0% to 73.5% (p<0.0001), patient global (VAS) from 48.8% to 85.3% (p<0.0001), morning stiffness from 62.8% to 84.8% (p=0.003), ASDAS from 12.2% to 32.8% (p=0.002), BASFI from 43.7% to 65.7% (p=0.008), or DAS28 from 24.7% to 46.3% (p=0.006). These changes were observed irrespectively of SpA classification. CONCLUSIONS: The implementation of an assessment checklist in daily practice is feasible and improves the assessment of SpA patients.

Assessment of SpondyloArthritis International Society (ASAS) Consensus on Spanish Nomenclature for Spondyloarthritis. / Consenso ASAS en nomenclatura en español para las espondiloartritis.

OBJECTIVE: To develop a consensus to standardize the use of Spanish terms, abbreviations and acronyms in the field of spondyloarthritis (SpA). METHODS: An international task force comprising all native Spanish-speaking Assessment of SpondyloArthritis International Society (ASAS) members, the executive committee of Grupo para el estudio de la Espondiloartritis de la Sociedad Española de Reumatología (GRESSER), two methodologists, two linguists from the Real Academia Nacional de Medicina de España (RANM) and two patients from the Spanish Coordinator of Spondylitis Associations (CEADE) was established. A literature review was performed to identify the conflicting terms/abbreviations/acronyms in SpA. This review examined written sources in Spanish including manuscripts, ICF and ICD, guidelines, recommendations and consensuses. This was followed by a nominal group meeting and a three-round Delphi. The recommendations from the RANM based on the Panhispanic dictionary were followed throughout the process. RESULTS: Consensus was reached for 46 terms, abbreviations or acronyms related to the field of SpA. A Spanish translation was accepted for 6 terms and 6 abbreviations to name or classify the disease, and for 6 terms and 4 abbreviations related to SpA. It was agreed not to translate 15 acronyms into Spanish. However, when mentioning them, it was recommended to follow this structure: type of acronym in Spanish and acronym and expanded form in English. With regard to 7 terms or abbreviations attached to acronyms, it was agreed to translate only the expanded form and a translation was also selected for each of them. CONCLUSIONS: Through this standardization, it is expected to establish a common use of the Spanish nomenclature for SpA. The implementation of this consensus across the community will be of substantial benefit, avoiding misunderstandings and time-consuming processes.

How to calculate the ASDAS based on C-reactive protein without individual questions from the BASDAI: the BASDAI-based ASDAS formula.

OBJECTIVES: To develop a new equation to calculate the Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Score based on CRP (ASDAS-CRP) using only the BASDAI total score and CRP. METHODS: Axial SpA (axSpA) patients from the Cordoba Spondyloarthritis Registry cohort were recruited as a derivation cohort, while a retrospective sample from the Spanish Rheumatology Society National Registry of Spondyloarthropathies and Ibero American Spondyloarhtritis Registry registers was used as a validation cohort. We built a new equation based only on the BASDAI and CRP, defining a new formula: the BASDAI-based ASDAS (BASDAS). Linear regression analysis was used to determine the coefficients of the equation in the derivation cohort and it was subsequently validated in the validation cohort. RESULTS: A total of 52 axSpA patients in the derivation cohort and 3359 patients in the validation cohort were included. In the derivation cohort, the mean BASDAS [2.24 (s.d. 0.90)] was very similar to the ASDAS-CRP [2.23 (s.d. 0.95)], with a very strong correlation (r = 0.96, P < 0.001). In the validation cohort, the mean BASDAS was 3.31 (s.d. 1.37) and the ASDAS-CRP was 3.19 (s.d. 1.27), which also had a very strong correlation (r = 0.95, P < 0.001). Intraclass correlation coefficients were excellent in both cohorts (0.963 and 0.947, respectively). CONCLUSION: The BASDAS performs similarly to the ASDAS-CRP and can be calculated with only the BASDAI total score and CRP, allowing evaluation of disease activity in retrospective studies where the individual items of the BASDAI are not available.