Prevalencia de la enfermedad pulmonar esclerodermia-intersticial limitada frente a la extensa en el momento del diagnóstico de SSc-EPID según los criterios de Goh et al. Revisión sistemática y metaanálisis / Prevalence of the limited vs. extensive scleroderma-related interstitial lung disease at the time of diagnosis of SSc-ILD based on Goh et al. criteria. Systematic review and meta-analysis

Introducción: Goh et al. propusieron en 2008 un algoritmo clasificatorio de SSc-EPID limitada o extensa. La prevalencia de ambos en el momento del diagnóstico de SSc-EPID no se conoce con exactitud. Métodos: La revisión se realizó mediante MEDLINE y SCOPUS desde 2008 hasta 2023 y utilizando los términos: «sistémica», «esclerodermia» o «enfermedad pulmonar intersticial» [MesH]. Se utilizó la escala de Newcastle-Ottawa para la evaluación de la calificación de los estudios observacionales y la escala de Jadad para los ensayos clínicos. Se realizó el método inverso ponderado por la varianza. Resultados: Se incluyeron inicialmente 27 estudios en la revisión sistemática y metaanálisis (SRMA). De ellos, 17 estudios no tenían datos coincidentes. Comunicaron datos de 2.149 pacientes, 1.369 (81,2%) eran mujeres. La edad media era de 52,4 (DE 6,6) años. El 45,2% de los pacientes presentaban el subtipo difuso y el 54,8% el subtipo limitado o esclerodermia sinusal. El 38,7% de los pacientes presentaban anticuerpos antitopoisomerasa positivos y el 14,2% anticuerpos anticentrómero positivos. El porcentaje medio de capacidad vital forzada al inicio del estudio fue del 80,5% (DE 6,9) y de capacidad de difusión pulmonar para el monóxido de carbono fue del 59,1% (DE 9,6). Doce estudios presentaron datos de extensión de SSc-EPID ajustados por PFR y se incluyeron en el metaanálisis. Los 10 estudios observacionales de cohortes se analizaron por separado. El porcentaje global de afectación limitada se estimó en un 63,5% (IC del 95%: 55,3-73; p<0,001) utilizando el modelo de efectos aleatorios. La heterogeneidad entre estudios (I2) fue del 9,8% (IC del 95%: 0-68,2%). La afectación pulmonar extensa se estimó en 34,3% (IC del 95%: 26-45,4; p<0,001). La heterogeneidad entre estudios (I2) fue del 0% (IC del 95%: 0-61,6%) con el modelo de efectos aleatorios.(AU)

Introduction: Goh et al. proposed in 2008 a classificatory algorithm of limited or extensive SSc-ILD. The prevalence of both at the time of diagnosis of SSc-ILD is not known with exactitude. Methods: The review was undertaken by means of MEDLINE and SCOPUS from 2008 to 2023 and using the terms: “systemic”, “scleroderma” or “interstitial lung disease” [MesH]. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale was used for the qualifying assessment for observational studies and the Jadad scale for clinical trials. The inverse variance-weighted method was performed. Results: Twenty-seven studies were initially included in the systematic review and meta-analysis (SRMA). Of these, 17 studies had no overlapping data. They reported data from 2,149 patients, 1,369 (81.2%) were female. The mean age was 52.4 (SD 6.6) years. 45.2% of the patients had the diffuse subtype and 54.8% had the limited or sine scleroderma subtype. A total of 38.7% of the patients showed positive antitopoisomerase antibodies and 14.2% positive anticentromere antibodies. The mean percentage of forced vital capacity at baseline was 80.5% (SD 6.9) and of diffusing capacity of the lungs for carbon monoxide was 59.1% (SD 9.6). Twelve studies presented SSc-ILD extension data adjusted for PFTs and were included in the meta-analysis. The 10 observational cohort studies were analyzed separately. The overall percentage of limited extension was estimated at 63.5% (95%CI 55.3–73; p<0.001) using the random-effects model. Heterogeneity between studies (I2) was 9.8% (95%CI 0–68.2%) with the random-effects model. Extensive pulmonary involvement was estimated at 34.3% (95%CI 26–45.4; p<0.001). Heterogeneity between studies (I2) was 0% (95%CI 0–61.6%) with the random-effects model. Conclusion: The overall percentage of limited SSc-ILD at the time of diagnosis of SSc-ILD was estimated at 63.5% and extensive at 34.3%.(AU)

Prognostic value of anti-IFI16 autoantibodies in pulmonary arterial hypertension and mortality in patients with systemic sclerosis / Valor pronóstico de los autoanticuerpos anti-IFI16 en la hipertensión arterial pulmonar y en la mortalidad en los pacientes con esclerodermia sistémica

Objectives: To determine the diagnostic value of anti-interferon gamma inducible protein 16 (IFI16) autoantibodies in systemic sclerosis (SSc) patients negative for all tested SSc-specific autoantibodies (SSc-seronegative patients) and to evaluate the clinical significance of these autoantibodies, whether isolated or in the presence of anti-centromere autoantibodies (ACA). Methods: Overall, 58 SSc-seronegative and 66 ACA-positive patients were included in the study. All patients were tested for anti-IFI16 autoantibodies by an in-house direct ELISA. Associations between clinical parameters and anti-IFI16 autoantibodies were analysed. Results: Overall, 17.2% of SSc-seronegative and 39.4% of ACA-positive patients were positive for anti-IFI16 autoantibodies. Anti-IFI16 autoantibodies were found only in patients within the limited cutaneous SSc (lcSSc) subset. A positive association between anti-IFI16 positivity and isolated pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) was found (odds ratio [OR]=5.07; p=0.014) even after adjusting for ACA status (OR=4.99; p=0.019). Anti-IFI16-positive patients were found to have poorer overall survival than negative patients (p=0.032). Cumulative survival rates at 10, 20 and 30 years were 96.9%, 92.5% and 68.7% for anti-IFI16-positive patients vs. 98.8%, 97.0% and 90.3% for anti-IFI16-negative-patients, respectively. Anti-IFI16-positive patients also had worse overall survival than anti-IFI16-negative patients after adjusting for ACA status in the multivariate Cox analysis (hazard ratio [HR]=3.21; p=0.043). Conclusion: Anti-IFI16 autoantibodies were associated with isolated PAH and poorer overall survival. Anti-IFI16 autoantibodies could be used as a supplementary marker of lcSSc in SSc-seronegative patients and for identifying ACA-positive patients with worse clinical outcome. (AU)

Objetivos: Determinar el valor diagnóstico de los autoanticuerpos anti-interferon gamma inducible protein 16 (IFI16) en los pacientes con esclerodermia sistémica (SSc) negativos para todos los autoanticuerpos específicos de SSc (pacientes SSc seronegativos) y evaluar el significado clínico de estos autoanticuerpos, aislados o en combinación con autoanticuerpos anticentrómero (ACA). Métodos: Se incluyeron 58 pacientes SSc seronegativos y 66 pacientes ACA positivos. Todos los pacientes se testaron para los autoanticuerpos anti-IFI16 mediante un ELISA directo «in-house». Las asociaciones entre parámetros clínicos y los autoanticuerpos anti-IFI16 fueron analizadas. Resultados: En total, el 17,2% de los pacientes SSc seronegativos y el 39,4% de los pacientes ACA positivos fueron positivos para anti-IFI16. Los autoanticuerpos anti-IFI16 se detectaron solamente en los pacientes con la forma limitada cutánea de SSc (lcSSc). Se encontró una asociación entre la positividad de anti-IFI16 y la hipertensión arterial pulmonar (HAP) aislada (odds ratio [OR]: 5,07; p=0,014), incluso cuando se ajustó el análisis a la presencia o ausencia de ACA (OR: 4,99; p=0,019). Los pacientes anti-IFI16 positivos mostraron una peor supervivencia general que los pacientes negativos (p=0,032). Las ratios de supervivencia acumulada a 10, 20 y 30 años fueron respectivamente del 96,9, 92,5 y 68,7% para los pacientes anti-IFI16 positivos frente al 98,8, 97,0 y 90,3% para los anti-IFI16 negativos. Los pacientes anti-IFI16 positivos también tenían una supervivencia general menor que los pacientes anti-IFI16 negativos tras ajustar para la presencia o ausencia de ACA mediante análisis multivariado de Cox (hazard ratio [HR]: 3,21; p=0,043)... (AU)

Prognostic value of anti-IFI16 autoantibodies in pulmonary arterial hypertension and mortality in patients with systemic sclerosis.

OBJECTIVES: To determine the diagnostic value of anti-interferon gamma inducible protein 16 (IFI16) autoantibodies in systemic sclerosis (SSc) patients negative for all tested SSc-specific autoantibodies (SSc-seronegative patients) and to evaluate the clinical significance of these autoantibodies, whether isolated or in the presence of anti-centromere autoantibodies (ACA). METHODS: Overall, 58 SSc-seronegative and 66 ACA-positive patients were included in the study. All patients were tested for anti-IFI16 autoantibodies by an in-house direct ELISA. Associations between clinical parameters and anti-IFI16 autoantibodies were analysed. RESULTS: Overall, 17.2% of SSc-seronegative and 39.4% of ACA-positive patients were positive for anti-IFI16 autoantibodies. Anti-IFI16 autoantibodies were found only in patients within the limited cutaneous SSc (lcSSc) subset. A positive association between anti-IFI16 positivity and isolated pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) was found (odds ratio [OR]=5.07; p=0.014) even after adjusting for ACA status (OR=4.99; p=0.019). Anti-IFI16-positive patients were found to have poorer overall survival than negative patients (p=0.032). Cumulative survival rates at 10, 20 and 30 years were 96.9%, 92.5% and 68.7% for anti-IFI16-positive patients vs. 98.8%, 97.0% and 90.3% for anti-IFI16-negative-patients, respectively. Anti-IFI16-positive patients also had worse overall survival than anti-IFI16-negative patients after adjusting for ACA status in the multivariate Cox analysis (hazard ratio [HR]=3.21; p=0.043). CONCLUSION: Anti-IFI16 autoantibodies were associated with isolated PAH and poorer overall survival. Anti-IFI16 autoantibodies could be used as a supplementary marker of lcSSc in SSc-seronegative patients and for identifying ACA-positive patients with worse clinical outcome.

Prevalence of the limited vs. extensive scleroderma-related interstitial lung disease at the time of diagnosis of SSc-ILD based on Goh et al. criteria. Systematic review and meta-analysis.

INTRODUCTION: Goh et al. proposed in 2008 a classificatory algorithm of limited or extensive SSc-ILD. The prevalence of both at the time of diagnosis of SSc-ILD is not known with exactitude. METHODS: The review was undertaken by means of MEDLINE and SCOPUS from 2008 to 2023 and using the terms: "systemic", "scleroderma" or "interstitial lung disease" [MesH]. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale was used for the qualifying assessment for observational studies and the Jadad scale for clinical trials. The inverse variance-weighted method was performed. RESULTS: Twenty-seven studies were initially included in the systematic review and meta-analysis (SRMA). Of these, 17 studies had no overlapping data. They reported data from 2,149 patients, 1,369 (81.2%) were female. The mean age was 52.4 (SD 6.6) years. 45.2% of the patients had the diffuse subtype and 54.8% had the limited or sine scleroderma subtype. A total of 38.7% of the patients showed positive antitopoisomerase antibodies (ATA) and 14.2% positive anticentromere antibodies (ACA). The mean percentage of forced vital capacity (FVC) at baseline was 80.5% (SD 6.9) and of diffusing capacity of the lungs for carbon monoxide (DLco) was 59.1% (SD 9.6). Twelve studies presented SSc-ILD extension data adjusted for PFTs and were included in the meta-analysis. The 10 observational cohort studies were analyzed separately. The overall percentage of limited extension was estimated at 63.5% (95%CI 55.3-73; p < 0.001) using the random-effects model. Heterogeneity between studies (I2) was 9.8% (95%CI 0-68.2%) with the random-effects model. Extensive pulmonary involvement was estimated at 34.3% (95%CI 26-45.4; p < 0.001). Heterogeneity between studies (I2) was 0% (95%CI 0-61.6%) with the random-effects model. CONCLUSION: The overall percentage of limited SSc-ILD at the time of diagnosis of SSc-ILD was estimated at 63.5% and extensive at 34.3%.

Esclerodermia y alteraciones esofágicas documentadas por manometría

Introducción: Las manifestaciones gastrointestinales y en especial la disfunción esofágica son frecuentes en pacientes con diagnóstico de esclerosis sistémica. Objetivos: Determinar los hallazgos manométricos en el esófago de pacientes con esclerosis sistémica. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo de corte transversal, en 86 pacientes con diagnóstico de esclerosis sistémica que fueron atendidos en el Servicio de Reumatología del Hospital "Hermanos Ameijeiras", en el período comprendido de enero de 2020 a diciembre de 2021. Resultados: La edad media fue de 49,5 ± 15,3 años, (94,3 %) en el sexo femenino. El (90,7 %) tenía trastornos de la motilidad esofágica, principalmente los trastornos mayores (58,1%) y el esfínter esofágico corto (62,8 %). La presencia de síntomas como la regurgitación, la pirosis y la disfagia se relacionaron de forma significativa en la mayoría de los parámetros manométricos. De igual forma, el tiempo de evolución de la enfermedad (10,1 ± 9,1 frente a 5,9 ± 5,9 años), el fenómeno de Raynaud (93,9 % frente a 25,0 %) y la esclerosis sistémica difusa (96,2 % frente a 82,4 %) fueron significativamente mayores en pacientes con trastornos de la motilidad esofágica. La edad y el sexo no mostraron una asociación significativa con las alteraciones manométricas. Conclusiones: Se concluye que los pacientes con esclerosis sistémica difusa, fenómeno de Raynaud, a partir de la presencia de los síntomas y de la evolución de la enfermedad tienen una elevada probabilidad de padecer trastornos de la motilidad esofágica.

Introduction: Gastrointestinal manifestations, and especially esophageal dysfunction, are common in patients diagnosed with systemic sclerosis. Objectives: To determine the manometric findings in the esophagus of patients with systemic sclerosis. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out on 86 patients with a diagnosis of systemic sclerosis who were treated in the Rheumatology Service of Hermanos Ameijeiras Hospital from January 2020 to December 2021. Results: The mean age was 49.5 ± 15.3 years, (94.3%) in females. 90.7% had esophageal motility disorders, mainly major disorders (58.1%) and 62.8% had short esophageal sphincter. The presence of symptoms such as regurgitation, heartburn and dysphagia were significantly related to most manometric parameters. Similarly, the duration of the disease (10.1 ± 9.1 versus 5.9 ± 5.9 years), Raynaud's phenomenon (93.9% versus 25.0%) and sclerosis diffuse systemic (96.2% vs. 82.4%) were significantly higher in patients with esophageal motility disorders. Age and sex did not show significant association with manometric alterations. Conclusions: It is concluded that patients with diffuse systemic sclerosis, Raynaud's phenomenon, based on the presence of symptoms, and the evolution of the disease, have high probability of suffering from esophageal motility disorders.

[Characteristics of patients with systemic sclerosis who develop interstitial lung disease]. / Características de los pacientes con esclerosis sistémica que desarrollan enfermedad pulmonar intersticial.

Background: Systemic sclerosis associated-interstitial lung disease (SSc-ILD) show a high mortality. The factors associated SSc-ILD have shown variability in different populations. There are few studies in Mexican mestizos. Objective: To analyze the epidemiological, clinical and paraclinical factors associated with SSc-ILD. Material and methods: Cross-sectional study, where patients > 18 years of age with a diagnosis of SSc according to EULAR/ACR 2013 criteria and diagnosis of ILD by forced vital capacity (FVC) < 70% and > 5% of affected lung area on tomography were included. The strength of association of the factors for ILD was measured by odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI). The significant variables were analyzed by multiple logistic regression with adjustment. Results: Of the 80 patients with SSc, 38 (47.5%) had ILD. Risk factors such as smoking, higher activity index, lower FVC, anti-topoisomerase I antibodies, and protective factors such as a limited SSc, early capillaroscopic pattern, and anti-centromere antibodies (ACA) were associated with ILD. In the multivariate analysis, a higher activity index with OR 4.17, (95% CI 2.01-8.65) persisted as a risk factor, while ACA with OR 0.17, (95% CI 0.03-0.85) persisted as a protective factor associated with SSc-ILD. Conclusions: A higher index of activity and ACA persisted as factors associated with SSc-ILD.

Introducción: la enfermedad pulmonar intersticial (EPI) está relacionada a una mayor mortalidad en esclerosis sistémica (ES). Los factores asociados a su presentación han mostrado variabilidad en diferentes poblaciones. Pocos estudios se han realizado en mestizos mexicanos. Objetivo: analizar los factores clínicos y paraclínicos asociados a EPI en pacientes con ES. Material y métodos: estudio retrospectivo de casos y controles en el que se incluyeron pacientes > 18 años con diagnóstico de ES, según criterios EULAR/ACR 2013 y EPI por capacidad vital forzada (CVF) < 70% y > 5% de área pulmonar efectada en tomografía. La fuerza de asociación de los factores para EPI se midió por razón de momios (RM) con intervalos de confianza del 95% (IC95%). Las variables significativas se analizaron por regresión logística múltiple con ajuste. Resultados: de los 80 pacientes con ES, 38 (47.5%) tenían EPI. Factores de riesgo como tabaquismo, mayor índice de actividad, menor CVF, anticuerpos antitopoisomerasa I y factores protectores como variedad limitada de ES, patrón capilaroscópico temprano y anticuerpos anticentrómero estuvieron asociados a EPI. En el análisis multivariado un mayor índice de actividad con RM 4.17, (IC95%: 2.01-8.65) persistió como un factor de riesgo; en cambio, los anticuerpos anticentrómero con RM 0.17, (IC95%: 0.03-0.85) persistieron como un factor protector asociado a EPI. Conclusiones: un mayor índice de actividad y la presencia anticuerpos anticentrómero persistieron como factores asociados a la presencia de EPI en ES.

Nodular (keloidal) scleroderma.

Keloidal or nodular scleroderma (NS) is a variant of localized scleroderma (LS) frequently seen in patients with limited or diffuse systemic sclerosis (SSc). It presents as raised, firm plaques or nodules with extensive dermal fibrosis and hyalinized collagen bundles. We present a patient with SSc who presented with this rare entity.

Esclerodermia nodular (queloidea) / Nodular (keloidal) scleroderma

Keloidal or nodular scleroderma (NS) is a variant of localized scleroderma (LS) frequently seen in patients with limited or diffuse systemic sclerosis (SSc). It presents as raised, firm plaques or nodules with extensive dermal fibrosis and hyalinized collagen bundles. We present a patient with SSc who presented with this rare entity. (AU)

La esclerodermia nodular o queloidea es una variante de esclerodermia localizada que se encuentra predominantemente en pacientes con esclerosis sistémica limitada o difusa (SSc). La presentación clínica es de placas o nódulos firmes y sobreelevados con fibrosis dérmica y haces de colágeno hialinizados. En este reporte de caso presentamos a una paciente con SSc con esta entidad rara. (AU)

Description of a single centre cohort of patients with systemic sclerosis from the University Hospital of Buenos Aires and factors associated with lung function deterioration. A retrospective study.

INTRODUCTION: Given the paucity of data in Latin America and especially in Argentina regarding the epidemiology of SSc, the prevalence of ILD, its course, and particularly the response to treatment, our objective was to evaluate a cohort of SSc patients evaluated in a single University Hospital in Buenos Aires. PATIENTS/METHODS: We included 152 patients with SSc, followed from disease onset to last pulmonary function test and with at least two PFT and up to 30 months between each. RESULTS: Sixty-one percent had diffuse SSc (DSSc) and 32% limited SSc (LSSc). The only significant clinical differences between these groups were a higher initial mRodnan score and prevalence of ILD in the DSSc. These also had significantly more anti Scl-70 (Topoisomerase 1) antibodies compared to the LSSC group who had significantly more anti centromere antibodies. The DSSc group also had significantly more extensive damage on HRCT with no differences in terms of imaging patterns. Comparing patients with and without ILD by HRCT, those with ILD had significantly more extensive damage, significantly more anti Scl-70 antibodies, and significantly fewer anti centromere antibodies than those without ILD. Patients whose ILD progressed had a smoking history (OR 4.97) and prior immunosuppressive treatment (OR 15.6) (multivariate analysis). Overall disease duration was significantly shorter in those who progressed. CONCLUSIONS: Our SSc population had similar characteristics to those described elsewhere as well as prevalence of ILD and its progression. We found a shorter disease duration, smoking, and prior immunosuppressive treatment to be associated with ILD progression.

Sub-oclusión intestinal y desnutrición severa en esclerosis sistémica sin esclerodermia

La esclerosis sistémica sin escleroderma es una forma no común de compromiso sistémico de esta enfermedad, con ausencia de manifestaciones cutáneas. Presentamos el caso de una mujer de 71 años con índice de masa corporal (IMC) en 16,9 kg/m2, con historia de hipotiroidismo y estreñimiento crónico, quien acude a emergencia por dolor y distensión abdominal, asociado a náuseas. Se realizó una tomografía abdomino-pélvica encontrándose cámara gástrica colapsada, asas intestinales con algunos segmentos distendidos, con signos de fecalización de asa delgada. La colonoscopía describió dolicocolon severo. Se observaron placas induradas en codo derecho y en ambos glúteos. Los exámenes auxiliares: ANA 1/640 patrón centromérico, anticuerpos anticentrómero = 227 U/mL (valor normal - VN: 0-25), Anti SCL-70 = 1,9 U/mL (VN 0-25) y anti RNP = 0,1 U/mL (VN 0-25). La capilaroscopía de borde ungueal a 200x mostró megacapilares. El diagnóstico clínico fue esclerosis sistémica sin esclerodermia. Se inició tratamiento con dieta rica en fibra y nutrición parenteral por 1 semana. La evolución de la paciente fue favorable.

Systemic sclerosis sine Scleroderma is an uncommon form of systemic compromise of this disease, in the abscense of cutaneous manifestations. We present the case of a 71 years-old woman, body mass index (BMI) in 16.9 kg/m2, with history of hypothyroidism and chronic constipation, who goes to the emergency with pain, abdominal bloating, and nausea. An abdominopelvic tomography was made, reporting a collapse of the gastric chamber, some segments of intestinal loops distended with signs of fecalization in the small intestine. A colonoscopy described severe dolicocolon. We observed indurated plaques in left elbow and in both buttocks. Lab tests: ANA 1/640 with anticentromeric pattern, anticentromere antibodies = 227 U/mL (0-25), Anti-SCL-70 = 1.9 U/mL (0-25), anti-RNP = 0.1 U/mL (0-25). Peri-ungueal cappilaroscopy 200x showed mega capillaries. Clinical diagnosis was systemic sclerosis sine scleroderma. We initiated treatment with a high-fiber diet and parenteral nutrition for a week. The patient evolution was favorable.

Description of a single centre cohort of patients with systemic sclerosis from the University Hospital of Buenos Aires and factors associated with lung function deterioration. A retrospective study / Descripción de una cohorte de pacientes con esclerosis sistémica del Hospital de la Universidad de Buenos Aires y factores asociados al deterioro de la función pulmonar. Un estudio retrospectivo

Introduction: Given the paucity of data in Latin America and especially in Argentina regarding the epidemiology of SSc, the prevalence of ILD, its course, and particularly the response to treatment, our objective was to evaluate a cohort of SSc patients evaluated in a single University Hospital in Buenos Aires. Patients/Methods: We included 152 patients with SSc, followed from disease onset to last pulmonary function test and with at least two PFT and up to 30 months between each. Results: Sixty-one percent had diffuse SSc (DSSc) and 32% limited SSc (LSSc). The only significant clinical differences between these groups were a higher initial mRodnan score and prevalence of ILD in the DSSc. These also had significantly more anti Scl-70 (Topoisomerase 1) antibodies compared to the LSSC group who had significantly more anti centromere antibodies. The DSSc group also had significantly more extensive damage on HRCT with no differences in terms of imaging patterns. Comparing patients with and without ILD by HRCT, those with ILD had significantly more extensive damage, significantly more anti Scl-70 antibodies, and significantly fewer anti centromere antibodies than those without ILD. Patients whose ILD progressed had a smoking history (OR 4.97) and prior immunosuppressive treatment (OR 15.6) (multivariate analysis). Overall disease duration was significantly shorter in those who progressed. Conclusions: Our SSc population had similar characteristics to those described elsewhere as well as prevalence of ILD and its progression. We found a shorter disease duration, smoking, and prior immunosuppressive treatment to be associated with ILD progression.(AU)

Introducción: La escasez de datos en Latinoamérica, y especialmente en Argentina, sobre la epidemiología de la esclerosis sistémica (SSc), la prevalencia de enfermedad pulmonar intersticial (EPID) y su progresión, llevó a evaluar una cohorte de pacientes con SSc atendidos en un hospital universitario de Buenos Aires, Argentina. Pacientes/Métodos: Incluimos 152 pacientes con SSc, seguidos desde el inicio de la enfermedad hasta el último examen funcional respiratorio (EFR) y con por lo menos dos EFR separados por un mínimo de 30 meses. Resultados: El 61% tenían enfermedad difusa (DSSc) y el 32%, limitada (LSSc). Aquellos con DSSc tuvieron significativamente un mayor índice modificado de Rodnan y prevalencia de EPID. Estos también tuvieron significativamente más anticuerpos anti-Scl-70 (topoisomerasa 1) comparados con LSSc, quienes tuvieron significativamente más anticuerpos anti-centrómero. Aquellos con DSSc mostraron significativamente más daño en la tomografía computada de alta resolución (TACAR), pero sin diferencias respecto a patrón de imágenes. Aquellos con EPID por TACAR tuvieron significativamente más daño, más anticuerpos anti Scl-70 y menos anticuerpos anti-centrómero que aquellos sin EPID. La progresión de EPID (análisis multivariado) se relacionó con consumo de tabaco (OR: 4,97) y uso previo de inmunosupresores (OR: 15,6). La duración de la enfermedad fue menor en los que progresaron. Conclusiones:Nuestra población de SSc tuvo características similares a lo descripto en el resto del mundo, así como la prevalencia y la progresión de EPID. Encontramos una menor duración de enfermedad, el consumo de tabaco y el uso previo de inmunosupresores asociados a la progresión de EPID.(AU)

Atrofodermia Idiopática de Pasini y Pierini, un abordaje inusual / Idiopathic atrophoderma of Pasini and Pierini, an unusual approach

La atrofodermia idiopática de Pasini y Pierini es una entidad poco frecuente y de etiología aún no esclarecida, se presenta con una frecuencia hasta seis veces mayor en mujeres que en hombres y una posible asociación con la esclerodermia localizada (morfea). Paciente femenina de 30 años, quien consultó por una lesión asintomática de dos años de evolución en el glúteo izquierdo. En el examen físico se evidenció una placa ovalada, deprimida y acrómica en su centro, que mide cinco por diez centímetros. La paciente había sido tratada previamente con múltiples terapias tópicas sin obtener mejoría clínica. Se realizó la biopsia de piel que demostraba cambios mínimos en epidermis, homogenización y adelgazamiento de colágeno sin afección de anexos. Se hizo correlación con los hallazgos clínicos y se decidió iniciar tratamiento con esteroides intralesionales de alta potencia (acetónido de triamcinolona). Posterior a la administración de dos aplicaciones del medicamento, con cuatro semanas de diferencia entre ellas, se evidenció la resolución completa de la dermatosis. Un mes después de la última dosis la paciente no mostró recidivas

diopathic atrophoderma of Pasini and Pierini is a rare entity of unclear etiology, occurring as much as six times more frequently in women than in men, with a possible association with localized scleroderma (morphea). It is about a 30 years old woman who consulted with an asymptomatic lesion of two years of evolution on the left gluteal region. Physical examination revealed an oval plaque, depressed and acromic in its center, measuring five by ten centimeters. A 30 years old female patient who consulted about an asymptomatic lesion of two years of evolution on the left gluteal region. Physical examination revealed an oval plaque, depressed and acromic in its center, measuring five by ten centimeters. The patient was previously treated with multiple topical therapies without clinical improvement.Skin biopsy showed minimal changes in the epidermis, homogenization, and thinning of the collagen without adnexal involvement. After a correlation was made with the clinical findings, starting treatment with high-potency intralesional steroids (triamcinolone acetonide) was recommended. After administering two applications of the drug, four weeks apart, the complete resolution of the dermatosis was evidenced. One month after the last dose, the patient showed no recurrence

Left ventricular dysfunction and arrhythmias in asymptomatic patients with systemic sclerosis / Disfunción ventricular izquierda y arritmias en pacientes asintomáticos con esclerosis sistémica

Introduction and aims Cardiac involvement in systemic sclerosis (SS) is frequently silent and a major cause of mortality in these patients. This work aims to study the prevalence and associations of left ventricular dysfunction (LVD) and arrhythmias in SS. Methods and results Prospective study of SS patients (n=36), excluding those with symptoms of (or) cardiac disease, pulmonary arterial hypertension or cardiovascular risk factors (CVRF). A clinical, analytical, electrocardiogram (EKG), Holter, and echocardiogram with global longitudinal strain (GLS) assessment were performed. Arrhythmias were classified into clinically significant arrhythmias (CSA) and non-significant.Twenty-eight percent had left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (LVDD), 22% LV systolic dysfunction (LVSD) according to the GLS, 11.1% both, and 16.7% cardiac dysautonomia. Fifty percent presented alterations by EKG (44% CSA), 55.6% by Holter (75% CSA) and 8.3% CSA by both. An association was found between the elevation of troponin T (TnTc) and CSA and between the elevation of both NT-proBNP and TnTc with LVDD. Conclusions We found a higher prevalence of LVSD than in the literature, detected by GLS and being 10 times higher than that detected by LVEF, which justifies the need to incorporate this technique in the routine evaluation of these patients. The association of TnTc and NT-proBNP with LVDD suggests that they can be used as minimally invasive biomarkers of this affectation. The absence of correlation between LVD and CSA indicates that the arrhythmias could be due, not only to a supposed structural alteration of the myocardium, but to an independent and early cardiac involvement, which should be actively investigated even in asymptomatic patients without CVRF. (AU)

Introducción y objetivosLa afectación cardiaca en la esclerosis sistémica (ES) es frecuentemente asintomática y se asocia con una mortalidad importante. Este trabajo tiene como objetivo estudiar la prevalencia y las asociaciones de la disfunción ventricular izquierda (DVI) y las arritmias en la ES. Métodos y resultados Estudio prospectivo de pacientes con ES (n = 36), excluyendo aquellos con síntomas o enfermedad cardiaca, hipertensión arterial pulmonar o factores de riesgo cardiovascular (FRCV). Se les realizó una evaluación clínica, analítica, con electrocardiograma (ECG), Holter y ecocardiograma con strain longitudinal global (SLG). Las arritmias se clasificaron en arritmias clínicamente significativas (ACS) y no significativas.De los pacientes estudiados, 27,8% presentaba disfunción diastólica del ventrículo izquierdo (DDVI), 22% disfunción sistólica del VI (DSVI) según el SLG, 11,1% ambas y 16,7% disautonomía cardiaca; 50% presentó alteraciones por ECG (44% ACS), 55,6% por Holter (75% ACS) y 8,3% ACS por ambos. Se encontró una asociación entre la elevación de troponina T (TnTc) y ACS y entre la elevación NT-proBNP y TnTc con la DDVI. Conclusiones Encontramos una prevalencia de DSVI mayor que en la literatura, detectada por SLG y siendo 10 veces superior a la detectada por FEVI, lo que justifica la necesidad de incorporar esta técnica en la evaluación rutinaria de estos pacientes. La asociación de TnTc y NT-proBNP con DDVI sugiere que pueden ser utilizados como biomarcadores mínimamente invasivos de esta afectación. La ausencia de correlación entre DVI y ACS indica que las arritmias podrían deberse, no solo a una supuesta alteración estructural del miocardio, sino a un compromiso cardiaco independiente y temprano, que debe investigarse activamente incluso en pacientes asintomáticos sin FRCV. (AU)

Utilidad de la ergoespirometría en el diagnóstico precoz de hipertensión pulmonar en pacientes con esclerodermia / Role of cardiopulmonary exercise test in early diagnosis of pulmonary hypertension in scleroderma patients

Introducción: La hipertensión arterial pulmonar (HAP) es una enfermedad grave y progresiva, con elevada mortalidad. El diagnóstico precoz e inicio de tratamiento temprano mejora el pronóstico. Los pacientes con esclerodermia tienen riesgo elevado de desarrollar HAP. La única estrategia de cribado establecida y validada (ecocardiograma y/o algoritmo DETECT) reconoce la enfermedad cuando ya está avanzada, a pesar de encontrarse en una fase preclínica. La ergoespirometría (CPET) detecta afectación vascular pulmonar en fases más precoces.MétodosEstudio prospectivo de los 52 pacientes consecutivos diagnosticados de esclerodermia en nuestra área sanitaria, durante 2 años (2018 y 2019). A todos se les realizó CPET, además del cribado sistemático anual. Se comparó la sensibilidad para detectar HAP del cribado actual frente a la CPET. Para confirmar la presencia de HAP se realizó un cateterismo cardiaco derecho (CCD). En caso de mantener la sospecha de HAP en CPET, pero con CCD en reposo no confirmatorio, se continuó con CCD de esfuerzo.ResultadosSe realizaron 52 CPET, de las cuales 16 indicaron HAP. El CCD de reposo confirmó HAP en 5 pacientes y el CCD de esfuerzo en otros 7 (sensibilidad diagnóstica de CPET junto con el cateterismo de reposo y esfuerzo del 100%). De esos 16 pacientes, DETECT habría identificado 10, de los cuales el CCD de reposo confirmó HAP en 3 y el de esfuerzo en otros 2 (sensibilidad del algoritmo diagnóstico establecido según guías del 70%).ConclusionesLa CPET y el CCD de esfuerzo podrían reconocer HAP más precozmente que el cribado establecido en pacientes con esclerodermia, permitiendo adelantar el diagnóstico. (AU)

Introduction: Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a severe, high mortality and progressive disease. Early diagnosis and treatment improves the prognosis. Patients with scleroderma disease presents high risk of developing PAH. Established screening strategies – echocardiogram and DETECT algorithm – recognize the disease when it is already advanced. Cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) detects pulmonary vascular injury in earlier stages.MethodsProspective study of 52 consecutive patients diagnosed of scleroderma in our health area, during 2 years (2018 and 2019). All of them undergo CPET, in addition to the annual systematic screening. Sensitivity of current PAH screening is compared to CPET. To confirm the presence of PAH, right heart catheterization (RHC) is performed. In case of suspected PAH in CPET, but non-confirmatory right heart catheterization at rest, patients carried out exercise RHC.ResultsFifty-two CPET were performed, of which 16 suggested PAH. Resting RHC confirmed PAH in 5 patients and exercise RHC in 7 (diagnostic sensitivity of CPET together with rest and exercise catheterization of 100%). Of these 16 patients, DETECT had identified 10, of whom resting RHC confirmed PAH in 3 and exercise RHC in 2 (guideline-based diagnostic algorithm sensitivity 70%).ConclusionsCPET and exercise RHC could detect PAH earlier than established screening in patients with scleroderma disease, allowing early diagnosis. (AU)

Esclerodermia. Manifestaciones bucomaxilofaciales, prevención y atención odontológica. Revisión narrativa / Scleroderma. Oral and maxillofacial manifestations, prevention and dental care. Narrative review

Resumen La esclerodermia pertenece a un grupo de enfermedades autoinmunes del tejido conectivo que produce inflamación, disfunción vascular y fibrosis excesiva del tejido de soporte de la piel y los órganos viscerales. A nivel bucal se presentan afecciones como la xerostomía y la microstomía, así como caries y enfermedad periodontal por dificultades en el control de la placa bacteriana. Su tratamiento odontológico requiere un manejo integral, que comprenda las patologías bucales presentes y los síntomas permanentes característicos de la enfermedad. Si bien es una patología muy infrecuente en la práctica general, es necesario enfatizar la importancia de que el odontólogo cumpla un rol multidisciplinario en el tratamiento de estos pacientes. Esta revisión narrativa tiene por objetivo describir las manifestaciones bucomaxilofaciales y el manejo odontológico del paciente con esclerodermia.

Abstract Scleroderma belongs to a group of autoimmune connective tissue diseases that causes inflammation, vascular dysfunction and excessive fibrosis of the supporting skin tissue and visceral organs. In the mouth, conditions such as xerostomia and microstomy are evident, as well as caries and periodontal disease due to difficulty in bacterial plaque control. Its dental treatment requires an integral management, which includes the oral pathologies present and the characteristic permanent symptoms of the disease. Although this pathology is not very common in the general practice, it is necessary to emphasize the importance of the dentist playing a multidisciplinary role in the treatment of these patients. This narrative review aims to describe the oral and maxillofacial manifestations and the dental management of patients with scleroderma.

Real-world nailfold videocapillaroscopy in a referral centre in north-western Colombia: A real-life cohort

Introduction: Nailfold videocapillaroscopy is a non-invasive tool for the assessment of peripheral microcirculation, the main indication is the study of Raynaud's phenomenon, poorly standardized outside of this context. There is no clear information in real-life about the rea-sons for referral, the presence of clinical findings of autoimmune diseases, the frequency of patterns of autoantibodies, and specific capillaroscopic findings. Objective: The purpose of this survey is to describe the sociodemographic, clinical, paraclinical, and angioscopy findings of a cohort of subjects referred to a capillaroscopy service in North-western Colombia. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted, from 2015 to 2018. Categorical variables were expressed in frequency and percentage and quantitative variables in mean and standard deviation or median with interquartile range, depending on the distribution of the data. Results: A total of 318 capillaroscopies were performed for the first time. The main referral reason was Raynaud's phenomenon (n = 134; 42.1%). The most frequent baseline capillaroscopic pattern found was normal (n = 123; 38.7%). Of the 12 capillaroscopies that presented a non-specific pattern at a 6-month follow-up, only one (8.3%) progressed to a scleroderma pattern. In the subjects with systemic sclerosis, the most frequent clinical finding was sclerodactyly (n = 34; 37.8%), and 42/44 individuals (95.4%) had positive antinuclear antibodies; the most frequent pattern was centromere (n = 27; 64.3%) Conclusions: In a real-world setting, the main referral reason for capillaroscopy was Raynaud's phenomenon; more than a third of the subjects had normal capillaroscopic findings. Sclerodactyly was the most frequent clinical finding in patients with scleroderma capillaroscopic pattern.

Introducción: La videocapilaroscopia del lecho ungular es una herramienta no invasiva para la evaluación de la microcirculación periférica; la indicación principal es el estudio del fenómeno de Raynaud. Luego de una revisión de la literatura, no hay información clara sobre los motivos de remisión, presencia de hallazgos clínicos de enfermedades autoinmunes, frecuencia de patrones de autoanticuerpos y hallazgos capilaroscópicos específicos. Objetivo: Describir los hallazgos sociodemográficos, clínicos, paraclínicos y capilaroscópicos de sujetos remitidos a un servicio de capilaroscopia en el noroccidente colombiano. Métodos: Estudio retrospectivo de 2015 a 2018. Las variables categóricas se expresaron en frecuencias absolutas y porcentajes, y las variables cuantitativas en media y desviación estándar o mediana con rango intercuartílico, dependiendo de la distribución de los datos. Resultados: Se realizaron 318 capilaroscopias por primera vez. El principal motivo de remisión fue el fenómeno de Raynaud (n = 134; 42,1%). El patrón capilaroscópico basal más frecuente fue el normal (n = 123; 38,7%). De las 12 capilaroscopias que presentaron un patrón no específico en un seguimiento de seis meses, solo una (8,3%) progresó a un patrón de esclerodermia. En los sujetos con esclerosis sistémica, el hallazgo clínico más frecuente fue la esclerodactilia (n = 34; 37,8%), y 42/44 individuos (95,4%) tenían anticuerpos antinucleares positivos; el patrón más frecuente fue el centromérico (n = 27; 64,3%). Conclusiones: La razón principal de remisión para realizar una capilaroscopia fue el fenómeno de Raynaud; más de un tercio de los sujetos tenían hallazgos capilaroscópicos normales. La esclerodactilia fue el hallazgo clínico más frecuente en pacientes con patrón capilaroscópico de esclerodermia.

Morfea en edad pediátrica / Morphea in childhood

La morfea es una rara enfermedad fibrosante de piel y tejidos subyacentes que aparece a cualquier edad, con más frecuencia en mujeres. Es de etiología autoinmune, benigna, con remisión espontánea o recidivante crónica; y se caracteriza por la aparición de áreas de piel esclerosadas, únicas o múltiples, redondeadas o lineales, asintomáticas, de evolución crónica y sin afección sistémica. Se presentó un paciente en edad pediátrica con esta enfermedad, cuya clínica, examen diagnóstico e histología fueron compatibles con la enfermedad de morfea lineal que, a pesar del retraso en su diagnóstico una vez iniciado el tratamiento inmunosupresor presentó una evolución favorable, simultáneamente se le realizó fisioterapia.

Morphea is a rare fibrosing disease of the skin and underlying tissues which is more common in women and can appear at any age. It is an autoimmune and benign disease with spontaneous remission or chronic relapsing course; it is characterized by the appearance of single or multiple, rounded or linear, asymptomatic, chronically evolving sclerosed skin areas without systemic involvement. We present a female pediatric patient with this disease, whose symptoms, diagnostic examination and histology were compatible with linear morphea that, despite the delay in its diagnosis, she had a favorable evolution once immunosuppressive treatment was started, and physiotherapy was simultaneously performed.

Left ventricular dysfunction and arrhythmias in asymptomatic patients with systemic sclerosis.

INTRODUCTION AND AIMS: Cardiac involvement in systemic sclerosis (SS) is frequently silent and a major cause of mortality in these patients. This work aims to study the prevalence and associations of left ventricular dysfunction (LVD) and arrhythmias in SS. METHODS AND RESULTS: Prospective study of SS patients (n=36), excluding those with symptoms of (or) cardiac disease, pulmonary arterial hypertension or cardiovascular risk factors (CVRF). A clinical, analytical, electrocardiogram (EKG), Holter, and echocardiogram with global longitudinal strain (GLS) assessment were performed. Arrhythmias were classified into clinically significant arrhythmias (CSA) and non-significant. Twenty-eight percent had left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (LVDD), 22% LV systolic dysfunction (LVSD) according to the GLS, 11.1% both, and 16.7% cardiac dysautonomia. Fifty percent presented alterations by EKG (44% CSA), 55.6% by Holter (75% CSA) and 8.3% CSA by both. An association was found between the elevation of troponin T (TnTc) and CSA and between the elevation of both NT-proBNP and TnTc with LVDD. CONCLUSIONS: We found a higher prevalence of LVSD than in the literature, detected by GLS and being 10 times higher than that detected by LVEF, which justifies the need to incorporate this technique in the routine evaluation of these patients. The association of TnTc and NT-proBNP with LVDD suggests that they can be used as minimally invasive biomarkers of this affectation. The absence of correlation between LVD and CSA indicates that the arrhythmias could be due, not only to a supposed structural alteration of the myocardium, but to an independent and early cardiac involvement, which should be actively investigated even in asymptomatic patients without CVRF.

[Role of cardiopulmonary exercise test in early diagnosis of pulmonary hypertension in scleroderma patients]. / Utilidad de la ergoespirometría en el diagnóstico precoz de hipertensión pulmonar en pacientes con esclerodermia.

INTRODUCTION: Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a severe, high mortality and progressive disease. Early diagnosis and treatment improves the prognosis. Patients with scleroderma disease presents high risk of developing PAH. Established screening strategies - echocardiogram and DETECT algorithm - recognize the disease when it is already advanced. Cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) detects pulmonary vascular injury in earlier stages. METHODS: Prospective study of 52 consecutive patients diagnosed of scleroderma in our health area, during 2 years (2018 and 2019). All of them undergo CPET, in addition to the annual systematic screening. Sensitivity of current PAH screening is compared to CPET. To confirm the presence of PAH, right heart catheterization (RHC) is performed. In case of suspected PAH in CPET, but non-confirmatory right heart catheterization at rest, patients carried out exercise RHC. RESULTS: Fifty-two CPET were performed, of which 16 suggested PAH. Resting RHC confirmed PAH in 5 patients and exercise RHC in 7 (diagnostic sensitivity of CPET together with rest and exercise catheterization of 100%). Of these 16 patients, DETECT had identified 10, of whom resting RHC confirmed PAH in 3 and exercise RHC in 2 (guideline-based diagnostic algorithm sensitivity 70%). CONCLUSIONS: CPET and exercise RHC could detect PAH earlier than established screening in patients with scleroderma disease, allowing early diagnosis.

Enxertos compostos de gordura para correção de distrofia facial em caso de esclerodermia localizada / Composite fat grafts for correcting facial dystrophy in a case of localized scleroderma

A esclerodermia localizada (morfeia linear) é uma doença rara que causa distrofia e assimetria faciais em mulheres jovens. É relatado o caso de uma paciente de 20 anos que foi tratada com enxertos compostos de gordura. Após a coleta do lipoaspirado de gordura subcutânea profunda, a microgordura e a nanogordura não filtrada foram processadas separadamente para formar enxertos compostos de gordura. Estes foram meticulosamente transplantados em camadas, para reconstruir o subcutaneo da face da paciente. Após um ano, observou-se boa pega de gordura com correção bem-sucedida da assimetria e restabelecimento do equilíbrio facial.

Localized scleroderma (linear morphea) is a rare disease that causes facial dystrophy and asymmetry in young women. We report the case of a 20-year-old female patient who was treated with novel composite fat grafts. After extracting lipoaspirate from deep subcutaneous fat, the microfat and the unfiltered nanofat were processed separately, and amalgamated, obtaining composite fat grafts. These were meticulously transplanted layer by layer to rebuild the subcutaneous tissue of the patient's face. After one year, a good volume of fat retention was observed with successful correction of asymmetry and restoration of facial balance.