MedWorm: Arthritis

Polymorphisms of the TIM-1 gene are associated with rheumatoid arthritis in the Chinese Hui minority ethnic population.

Genetics and Molecular Research — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 11:24:05 +0100

Polymorphisms of the TIM-1 gene are associated with rheumatoid arthritis in the Chinese Hui minority ethnic population. Genet Mol Res. 2012;11(1):61-9 Authors: Xu JR, Yang Y, Liu XM, Sun JY, Wang YJ Abstract The T-cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain 1 (TIM-1) is known to be associated with susceptibility to rheumatoid arthritis (RA). We investigated the association of four single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the promoter region of the TIM-1 gene with susceptibility to RA in a Chinese Hui ethnic minority group. Using RFLP or sequence specific primer-PCR, 118 RA patients and 118 non-arthritis control individuals were analyzed for the -1637A>G, -1454G>A, -416G>C, and -232A>G SNPs in the TIM-1 gene. The polymorphisms -232A>G and -1637A>G in the promoter...

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Switching between anti-TNF-alpha agents does not improve functional capacity in patients with long-standing and active rheumatoid arthritis

Revista Brasileira de Reumatologia — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 10:19:07 +0100

CONCLUSION: Switching between anti-TNF-alpha agents is a valid strategy to control disease activity, despite the low likelihood of remission and no significant improvement in functional capacity (Source: Revista Brasileira de Reumatologia)

Reduction in alveolar bone density of patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis

Revista Brasileira de Reumatologia — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 10:19:07 +0100

CONCLUSION: ABD was lower in patients with JIA and seemed to be influenced by neither medication nor rheumatic disease activity. In addition, no correlation was observed between ABD and periodontal and rheumatologic clinical parameters (Source: Revista Brasileira de Reumatologia)

The role of the HLA-G gene and molecule on the clinical expression of rheumatologic diseases

Revista Brasileira de Reumatologia — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 10:19:07 +0100

O antígeno leucocitário humano G (HLA-G) é uma molécula não clássica de complexo principal de histocompatibilidade (MHC) de classe I, caracterizada por baixo polimorfismo em sua região codificadora, um padrão de distribuição tecidual limitado em condições fisiológicas e expressão por meio de isoformas solúveis e acopladas à superfície de membranas por meio de splicing alternativo. O HLA-G é bastante conhecido por estar envolvido na indução e na manutenção da tolerância entre o sistema imunológico materno e o feto semialogênico ao nível da interface fetoplacentária. Além disso, diversos estudos apontam para um papel imunorregulatório mais amplo dessa molécula. Neste contexto, a expressão de HLA-G em doenças inflamatórias e reumatológicas é uma área relati...

Current and relevant concepts in psoriatic arthritis

Revista Brasileira de Reumatologia — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 10:19:07 +0100

A artrite psoriásica (APs) é uma doença articular sistêmica e polimórfica de apresentação e curso clínico variáveis, associada a comorbidades importantes como diabetes mellitus, hipertensão arterial e dislipidemia. Para o diagnóstico precoce da doença é necessário alto grau de suspeita clínica, sobretudo quando as manifestações cutâneas são sutis e pouco definidas. Doença erosiva progressiva pode ocorrer em até metade dos pacientes, associada a alterações anatômicas e funcionais em cerca de 20%, de modo que o prognóstico da APs permanece obscuro, especialmente se diagnóstico e tratamento forem tardios. Fundamentados em ampla revisão da literatura (PubMed e Lilacs) e experiência dos nossos serviços, novos conceitos de imunogenética, fisiopatologia, aspectos cl�...

Neuromodulators for pain management in rheumatoid arthritis

Prescriber — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 06:47:12 +0100

(Source: Prescriber)

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Varus Ankle and Osteochondral Lesions of the Talus

Foot and Ankle Clinics — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 04:48:22 +0100

To our knowledge, little is reported about the management of the patients with combined symptomatic osteochondral lesions of the talus (OLT) and varus ankle malalignment. Treatment strategies for symptomatic OLTs are relatively well described in the orthopaedic literature. While less defined than the surgical management of OLTs, realignment procedures for the varus ankle and hindfoot have also been studied and reported in some detail, albeit with a focus on management of ankle arthritis. In this article we review practical concepts from the orthopaedic literature that may be applied when treating patients with concomitant OLTs and varus ankles malalignment. (Source: Foot and Ankle Clinics)

Epidemiology, Clinical Manifestations, and Long-Term Outcomes of a Major Outbreak of Chikungunya in a Hamlet in Sri Lanka, in 2007: A Longitudinal Cohort Study

Clinical and Developmental Immunology — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 11:21:45 +0100

Chikungunya outbreaks occurred in the central province, Sri Lanka in 2006. This community-based study reports the epidemiology and the natural history of the infection from an affected village. Of the 199 families and 1001 individuals in the village, 159 (80%) and 513 (51%) were affected, respectively, comprising 237 (46%) males with peak incidence at 40–50 years. The acute illness caused polyarthritis in 233 (46%), and of them 230 (98%) progressed to chronic arthritic disability (CAD). Of the CAD patients, 102 (44%) had recovered in 141 days (range 30–210 days) from the disability state whilst 128 (56%) had persisting disability which lasted 12, 24, and 36 months in 41 (17.8%), 22 (9.5%), and 14 (6.1%) individuals, respectively. Carpal ...

Dyspnea Caused by Atlantoaxial Subluxation in a Patient with Rheumatoid Arthritis

Clinical and Developmental Immunology — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 11:21:45 +0100

We report a patient with rheumatoid arthritis whose chief complaint was dyspnea on arrival to the emergency department (ED). After further investigation, spinal cord compression caused by atlantoaxial subluxation was diagnosed. This is an uncommon but important case that ED physicians should be aware of. (Source: Clinical and Developmental Immunology)

Immunology in clinic review series; focus on autoinflammatory diseases: update on monogenic autoinflammatory diseases: the role of interleukin (IL)‐1 and an emerging role for cytokines beyond IL‐1

Clinical and Experimental Immunology — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 11:18:22 +0100

OTHER THEMES PUBLISHED IN THIS IMMUNOLOGY IN THE CLINIC REVIEW SERIESAllergy, Host Responses, Cancer, Type 1 diabetes and viruses, Metabolic diseases.SummaryThe disease‐based discovery of the molecular basis for autoinflammatory diseases has led not only to a rapidly growing number of clinically and genetically identifiable disorders, but has unmantled key inflammatory pathways such as the potent role of the alarm cytokine interleukin (IL)‐1 in human disease. Following its initial failures in the treatment of sepsis and the moderate success in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, IL‐1 blocking therapies had a renaissance in the treatment of a number of autoinflammatory conditions, and IL‐1 blocking therapies have been Food and Drug Administration (FDA)‐approved for the treatmen...

Those Living In Poor Neighbourhoods Suffer Higher Incidence Of Arthritis

Health News from Medical News Today — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 09:00:00 +0100

Results revealed that people who live in socially disadvantaged areas were 42 per cent more at risk of getting arthritis than people in more affluent areas. The study revealed more than 30 per cent of people living in socially disadvantaged areas reported having arthritis, as opposed to 18.5 per cent in the more affluent areas. Led by the University of Melbourne, Deakin University and Queensland University of Technology, the study was published in the international journal Arthritis Care & Research... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

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estrogens conjugated, Premarin

MedicineNet Arthritis General — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 07:00:00 +0100

Title: estrogens conjugated, PremarinCategory: MedicationsCreated: 12/31/1997Last Editorial Review: 2/2/2012 (Source: MedicineNet Arthritis General)

sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim, Bactrim, Septra

MedicineNet Arthritis General — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 07:00:00 +0100

Title: sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim, Bactrim, SeptraCategory: MedicationsCreated: 12/31/1997Last Editorial Review: 2/2/2012 (Source: MedicineNet Arthritis General)

infliximab, Remicade

MedicineNet Arthritis General — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 07:00:00 +0100

Title: infliximab, RemicadeCategory: MedicationsCreated: 12/13/1999 9:40:00 PMLast Editorial Review: 2/2/2012 (Source: MedicineNet Arthritis General)

Gleevec Approval Widened to Include Rare Cancer

MedicineNet Arthritis General — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 07:00:00 +0100

Title: Gleevec Approval Widened to Include Rare CancerCategory: Health NewsCreated: 2/1/2012 4:06:00 PMLast Editorial Review: 2/2/2012 (Source: MedicineNet Arthritis General)

Specific post-translational histone modifications of neutrophil extracellular traps as immunogens and potential targets of lupus autoantibodies

Arthritis Research and Therapy — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Isolated in vivo exposure to NETs is insufficient to break tolerance and may involve additional factors that have yet to be identified. (Source: Arthritis Research and Therapy)

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Sports Activity After Short-Stem Hip Arthroplasty

The American Journal of Sports Medicine — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: Patients with a short-stem hip implant can return to a good level of activity postoperatively. Participation in sports almost reached similar levels as preoperatively but with a shift from high- to low-impact activities. This seems desirable from a surgeon’s point of view but should also be communicated to the patient before hip replacement. (Source: The American Journal of Sports Medicine)

MicroRNAs in Systemic Rheumatic DiseasesMicroRNAs in Systemic Rheumatic Diseases

Medscape Today Headlines — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 04:00:00 +0100

MiRNAs are emerging as potential targets for new therapeutic strategies of autoimmune disorders. Arthritis Research & Therapy (Source: Medscape Today Headlines)

Linear Pitting and Splinter Haemorrhages Are More Commonly Seen in the Nails of Patients with Established Psoriasis in Comparison to Psoriatic Arthritis

Dermatology — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 23:00:00 +0100

Dermatology (DOI:10.1159/000335571) (Source: Dermatology)

Integrated Safety in Tocilizumab Clinical TrialsIntegrated Safety in Tocilizumab Clinical Trials

Medscape Rheumatology Headlines — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 19:33:07 +0100

How safe is tocilizumab in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis? Arthritis Research & Therapy (Source: Medscape Rheumatology Headlines)

UCB and Astellas Announce Agreement to Jointly Develop and Commercialize Cimzia (Certolizumab Pegol) in Japan

Drugs.com - Pharma News — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 12:10:11 +0100

Astellas and UCB partner to bring certolizumab pegol to rheumatoid arthritis patients in Japan UCB files certolizumab pegol for marketing authorisation with the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare Tokyo, Japan and Brussels, Belgium, 1st... (Source: Drugs.com - Pharma News)

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Arthritis - Whether Weather Affects Arthritis

MedicineNet Chronic Pain General — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 07:00:00 +0100

Title: Arthritis - Whether Weather Affects ArthritisCategory: Doctor's ViewsCreated: 9/10/2000Last Editorial Review: 2/1/2012 (Source: MedicineNet Chronic Pain General)

Rheumatoid Arthritis: Questions for Your Doctor

MedicineNet Chronic Pain General — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 07:00:00 +0100

Title: Rheumatoid Arthritis: Questions for Your DoctorCategory: Doctor's ViewsCreated: 8/6/2001 4:16:00 PMLast Editorial Review: 2/1/2012 (Source: MedicineNet Chronic Pain General)

Arthritis - Whether Weather Affects Arthritis

MedicineNet Senior Health General — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 07:00:00 +0100

Title: Arthritis - Whether Weather Affects ArthritisCategory: Doctor's ViewsCreated: 9/10/2000Last Editorial Review: 2/1/2012 (Source: MedicineNet Senior Health General)

Rheumatoid Arthritis: Questions for Your Doctor

MedicineNet Senior Health General — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 07:00:00 +0100

Title: Rheumatoid Arthritis: Questions for Your DoctorCategory: Doctor's ViewsCreated: 8/6/2001 4:16:00 PMLast Editorial Review: 2/1/2012 (Source: MedicineNet Senior Health General)

Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs and Ulcers

MedicineNet Arthritis General — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 07:00:00 +0100

Title: Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs and UlcersCategory: Diseases and ConditionsCreated: 12/31/1997Last Editorial Review: 2/1/2012 (Source: MedicineNet Arthritis General)

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Coping With Chronic Rheumatic Diseases

MedicineNet Arthritis General — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 07:00:00 +0100

Title: Coping With Chronic Rheumatic DiseasesCategory: Doctor's ViewsCreated: 8/4/2000 3:27:00 PMLast Editorial Review: 2/1/2012 (Source: MedicineNet Arthritis General)

Arthritis - Whether Weather Affects Arthritis

MedicineNet Arthritis General — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 07:00:00 +0100

Title: Arthritis - Whether Weather Affects ArthritisCategory: Doctor's ViewsCreated: 9/10/2000Last Editorial Review: 2/1/2012 (Source: MedicineNet Arthritis General)

Rheumatoid Arthritis: Questions for Your Doctor

MedicineNet Arthritis General — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 07:00:00 +0100

Title: Rheumatoid Arthritis: Questions for Your DoctorCategory: Doctor's ViewsCreated: 8/6/2001 4:16:00 PMLast Editorial Review: 2/1/2012 (Source: MedicineNet Arthritis General)

Pain (Acute and Chronic)

MedicineNet Arthritis General — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 07:00:00 +0100

Title: Pain (Acute and Chronic)Category: Doctor's ViewsCreated: 11/30/2004Last Editorial Review: 2/1/2012 (Source: MedicineNet Arthritis General)

Heartburn Drugs Linked to Hip Fractures in Women

MedicineNet Arthritis General — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 07:00:00 +0100

Title: Heartburn Drugs Linked to Hip Fractures in WomenCategory: Health NewsCreated: 2/1/2012 11:01:00 AMLast Editorial Review: 2/1/2012 (Source: MedicineNet Arthritis General)

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Rheumatoid Arthritis: Questions for Your Doctor

MedicineNet Feet and Fitness General — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 07:00:00 +0100

Title: Rheumatoid Arthritis: Questions for Your DoctorCategory: Doctor's ViewsCreated: 8/6/2001 4:16:00 PMLast Editorial Review: 2/1/2012 (Source: MedicineNet Feet and Fitness General)

[Radiological imaging in early diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis : The role of ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging.]

Der Radiologe — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

[Radiological imaging in early diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis : The role of ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging.] Radiologe. 2012 Feb 1; Authors: Platzgummer H, Schüller-Weidekamm C Abstract CLINICAL/METHODICAL ISSUE: For optimal therapy management of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) specific and sensitive diagnostic methods are essential for assessment of disease activity. STANDARD RADIOLOGICAL METHODS: In addition to projection radiography, imaging techniques, in particular magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and ultrasound (US) are becoming increasingly more important for the early diagnosis of RA. PRACTICAL RECOMMENDATIONS: The MRI and US techniques play a key role in the early imagin...

Addition of an indoleamine‐2,3,‐dioxygenase inhibitor to B cell depletion therapy blocks autoreactive B cell activation and recurrence of arthritis

Arthritis and Rheumatism — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusion:IDO activity is essential for the differentiation of autoreactive B cells into antibody secreting cells, but is not necessary for their initial stages of activation. Addition of 1MT to B cell depletion therapy prevents the differentiation of autoantibody secreting cells and recurrence of autoimmune arthritis following reconstitution of the B cell repertoire. These data suggest that IDO inhibitors could be used in conjunction with B cell depletion as an effective co‐therapeutic strategy in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. (Source: Arthritis and Rheumatism)

Evaluation of cardiovascular risk in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Do cardiovascular biomarkers offer added predictive ability over established clinical risk scores?

Arthritis Care and Research — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Hip pain while using lower extremity joints is associated with sleep disturbances in elderly caucasian women: The study of osteoporotic fractures

Arthritis Care and Research — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusion:Fragmented sleep was greater in women with hip pain compared to those without hip pain. However, fragmented sleep in women with severe hip pain compared to those without hip pain was unchanged until after the first two hours of sleep. Further investigation, such as pain medications wearing off over time, or prolonged periods of inactivity decreasing the pain threshold are warranted. © 2012 by the American College of Rheumatology. (Source: Arthritis Care and Research)

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Pain management for inflammatory arthritis (rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis and other spondylarthritis)

NeLM - Disease Focused Reviews — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Source: Cochrane Area: Evidence > Disease Focused Reviews Background Even with optimal disease-modifying treatment and good control of disease activity, persistent pain due to structural damage is common in people with inflammatory arthritis and therefore additional treatment for pain might be required. Because comorbidity is highly prevalent in people with inflammatory arthritis, it is important to consider comorbidities such as gastrointestinal or liver diseases in deciding upon optimal pharmacologic pain therapy. Objectives To assess the efficacy and safety of pharmacological pain treatment in patients with inflammatory arthritis who have gastrointestinal or liver comorbidities, or both. Search methods We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE...

Synthesis, Anti-Arthritic, and Anti-Inflammatory Activity of N-Tosyl aza Cyclophanes

Australian Journal of Chemistry — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Perumal Rajakumar, Ramar Padmanabhan The synthesis of some novel N-tosyl tetra and diaza cyclophanes incorporating m-terphenyl as spacer units is described. All the N-tosyl aza cyclophanes exhibit excellent anti-arthritic and anti-inflammatory activity. (Source: Australian Journal of Chemistry)

Biologics, Surgery Offer New Hope in Psoriatic ArthritisBiologics, Surgery Offer New Hope in Psoriatic Arthritis

Medscape Today Headlines — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 03:45:00 +0100

Early, aggressive treatment may help reduce symptoms and improve joint function. Medscape Medical News (Source: Medscape Today Headlines)

T-cell targeting medication may relieve psoriatic arthritis

Pharmacy Europe — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 11:49:00 +0100

Early, aggressive treatment may help reduce symptoms and improve joint function (Source: Pharmacy Europe)

Rheumatoid Arthritis - When Do I Call the Doctor?

MedicineNet Hearing General — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 07:00:00 +0100

Title: Rheumatoid Arthritis - When Do I Call the Doctor?Category: Doctor's ViewsCreated: 7/7/2001 12:46:00 PMLast Editorial Review: 1/31/2012 (Source: MedicineNet Hearing General)

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Living With Rheumatoid Arthritis

MedicineNet Chronic Pain General — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 07:00:00 +0100

Title: Living With Rheumatoid ArthritisCategory: Doctor's ViewsCreated: 8/9/2006Last Editorial Review: 1/31/2012 (Source: MedicineNet Chronic Pain General)

Rheumatoid Arthritis - When Do I Call the Doctor?

MedicineNet Cholesterol General — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 07:00:00 +0100

Title: Rheumatoid Arthritis - When Do I Call the Doctor?Category: Doctor's ViewsCreated: 7/7/2001 12:46:00 PMLast Editorial Review: 1/31/2012 (Source: MedicineNet Cholesterol General)

Living With Rheumatoid Arthritis

MedicineNet Arthritis General — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 07:00:00 +0100

Title: Living With Rheumatoid ArthritisCategory: Doctor's ViewsCreated: 8/9/2006Last Editorial Review: 1/31/2012 (Source: MedicineNet Arthritis General)

Poor neighborhoods suffer higher incidence of arthritis

EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(University of Melbourne) People living in poor neighborhoods have a higher rate and risk of arthritis - one of the most common causes of disability in the developed world. (Source: EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science)

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Neuromodulators for pain management in rheumatoid arthritis

NeLM - Drug Class Focused Reviews — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Source: Cochrane Library Area: Evidence > Drug Class Focused Reviews Background Pain management is a high priority for patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Despite deficiencies in research data, neuromodulators have gained widespread clinical acceptance as adjuvants in the management of patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain. Objectives The aim of this review was to determine the efficacy and safety of neuromodulators in pain management in patients with RA. Neuromodulators included in this review were anticonvulsants (gabapentin, pregabalin, phenytoin, sodium valproate, lamotrigine, carbamazepine, levetiracetam, oxcarbazepine, tiagabine and topiramate), ketamine, bupropion, methylphenidate, nefopam, capsaicin and the cannabinoids. Search ...

Muscle relaxants for pain management in rheumatoid arthritis

NeLM - Drug Class Focused Reviews — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Source: Cochrane Library Area: Evidence > Drug Class Focused Reviews Background Pain management is a high priority for patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Muscle relaxants include drugs that reduce muscle spasm (for example benzodiazepines such as diazepam (Valium), alprazolam (Xanax), lorazepam (Ativan) and non-benzodiazepines such as metaxalone (Skelaxin) or a combination of paracetamol and orphenadrine (Muscol)) and drugs that prevent increased muscle tone (baclofen and dantrolene). Despite a paucity of evidence supporting their use, antispasmodic and antispasticity muscle relaxants have gained widespread clinical acceptance as adjuvants in the management of patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain. Objectives The aim of this review was to determin...

State-Specific Prevalence of No Leisure-Time Physical Activity Among Adults With and Without Doctor-Diagnosed Arthritis--United States, 2009 [From the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention]

JAMA — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: JAMA)

JAK2 and STAT3 Polymorphisms in a Han Chinese Population with Behcet's Disease [Genetics]

Investigative Ophthalmology — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions. These results suggest that a STAT3 genetic polymorphism is associated with the susceptibility to BD. (Source: Investigative Ophthalmology)

Improved dynamic response assessment for intra‐articular injected iron oxide nanoparticles

Magnetic Resonance in Medicine — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

AbstractThe emerging importance of nanoparticle technology, including iron oxide nanoparticles for monitoring development, progression, and treatment of inflammatory diseases such as arthritis, drives development of imaging techniques. Studies require an imaging protocol that is sensitive and quantifiable for the detection of iron oxide over a wide range of concentrations. Conventional signal loss measurements of iron oxide nanoparticle containing tissues saturate at medium concentrations and show a nonlinear/nonproportional intensity to concentration profile due to the competing effects of T1 and T2 relaxation. A concentration calibration phantom and an in vivo study of intra‐articular injection in a rat knee of known concentrations of iron oxide were assessed using the difference‐ult...

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Gene silencing of IL-12 in dendritic cells inhibits autoimmune arthritis

Journal of Translational Medicine — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: We demonstrate a novel tolerance-inducing protocol for the treatment of autoimmune inflammatory joint disease in which the target antigen is known, utilizing DNA-directed RNA interference. (Source: Journal of Translational Medicine)

Therapy of lupus nephritis: lessons learned from clinical research and daily care to patients

Arthritis Research and Therapy — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Despite numerous randomized clinical trials over the last three decades for identifying the optimal treatment option for lupus nephritis, renal involvement still significantly impacts the survival and quality of life of patients with lupus and the search for the ideal immunosuppressive regimen is far from complete. The purpose of this review is to summarize the major recent achievements in the field. More specifically, the following topics will be discussed: intravenous cyclophosphamide versus mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) for induction; azathioprine versus MMF for maintenance; targeted therapies. The review will address clues for optimal global care, such as the need for complete initial evaluation, the importance of patient education, the unmasking of non-compliance to therapy, the reason ...

A profile of immune response to herpesvirus is associated with radiographic damage in rheumatoid arthritis

Arthritis Research and Therapy — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: A profile of immune response to purified CMV/EBV lysates is associated with radiographic joint damage. The correlation of this immune response to CMV serology implies possible involvement of latent CMV infection. Therefore, the findings suggest that the immune response to latent CMV infection could play a fundamental role in the progression of inflammation and structural joint damage in patients with RA. (Source: Arthritis Research and Therapy)

New evidence for the role of proteasome inhibitors in systemic lupus erythematosus

Arthritis and Rheumatism — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Arthritis and Rheumatism)

Could the “Cochin risk prediction score” be applied in daily practice to predict pulmonary hypertension in systemic sclerosis?

Arthritis and Rheumatism — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Arthritis and Rheumatism)

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Sustained response and prevention of damage progression in patients with neonatal‐onset multisystem inflammatory disease (NOMID) treated with anakinra

Arthritis and Rheumatism — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusion:Anakinra provides sustained efficacy in the treatment of NOMID for up to five years, with the requirement of dose escalation. Damage progression in the CNS, ear, and eye – but not bone – is preventable. Anakinra is overall well tolerated. (Source: Arthritis and Rheumatism)

Juvenile‐onset SLE; disease activity, severity and damage ‐ the UK JSLE Cohort Study

Arthritis and Rheumatism — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

ConclusionThe UK JSLE Cohort Study, one of the largest national JSLE inception cohorts to date, has demonstrated severe organ involvement and significant disease activity. Damage accumulation is also seen. (Source: Arthritis and Rheumatism)

Dual regulation of metalloproteinase expression in chondrocytes by WISP3/CCN6

Arthritis and Rheumatism — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

ConclusionWISP3/CCN6 was highly expressed in end‐stage osteoarthritic cartilage suggesting a role for this growth factor in cartilage homeostasis. WISP3/CCN6 repression of ADAMTS5 expression and regulation of MMP10 expression suggests complex and context‐dependent roles for WISP3/CCN6 in cartilage biology. (Source: Arthritis and Rheumatism)

Decreased intrinsic brain connectivity is associated with reduced clinical pain in fibromyalgia

Arthritis and Rheumatism — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSIONS:Our findings suggest that intrinsic brain connectivity can be used as a candidate objective marker that tracks intra‐subject with changes in spontaneous chronic pain in FM. We propose that intrinsic connectivity measures could potentially be used either in research or clinical settings as a complementary, more objective outcome. © 2012 American College of Rheumatology. (Source: Arthritis and Rheumatism)

Transverse acroosteolysis

Arthritis and Rheumatism — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Arthritis and Rheumatism)

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Inflammatory regulation of glucocorticoid metabolism in mesenchymal stromal cells

Arthritis and Rheumatism — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusion:The mechanism by which stromal cell expression of 11β‐HSD1 is regulated is novel and distinct from that in other tissues. These findings open up new opportunities to inhibit or stimulate local glucocorticoid levels in cells of mesenchymal stromal lineage during inflammation. © 2012 American College of Rheumatology. (Source: Arthritis and Rheumatism)

Scaffold protein Disc large homolog 1 is required for T-cell receptor-induced activation of regulatory T-cell function [Immunology]

Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Foxp3+CD4+CD25high regulatory T cell (Treg) suppression of inflammation depends on T-cell receptor-mediated Nuclear Factor of Activated T cells c1 (NFATc1) activation with reduced Akt activity. We investigated the role of the scaffold protein Disc large homolog 1 (Dlgh1) in linking the T-cell receptor to this unique signaling outcome. The Treg immunological synapse (IS) recruited fourfold more Dlgh1 than conventional CD4+ T-cell IS. Tregs isolated from patients with active rheumatoid arthritis, or treated with tumor necrosis factor-α, displayed reduced function and diminished Dlgh1 recruitment to the IS. Furthermore, Dlgh1 silencing abrogated Treg function, impaired NFATc1 activation, reduced phosphatase and tensin homolog levels, and increased Akt activation. Dlgh1 operates independently...

IL-33 is processed into mature bioactive forms by neutrophil elastase and cathepsin G [Medical Sciences]

Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Interleukin-33 (IL-33) (NF-HEV) is a chromatin-associated nuclear cytokine from the IL-1 family, which has been linked to important diseases, including asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, ulcerative colitis, and cardiovascular diseases. IL-33 signals through the ST2 receptor and drives cytokine production in type 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) (natural helper cells, nuocytes), T-helper (Th)2 lymphocytes, mast cells, basophils, eosinophils, invariant natural killer T (iNKT), and natural killer (NK) cells. We and others recently reported that, unlike IL-1β and IL-18, full-length IL-33 is biologically active independently of caspase-1 cleavage and that processing by caspases results in IL-33 inactivation. We suggested that IL-33, which is released upon cellular damage, may function as an endogenou...

Effect of Biotherapies on Fatigue in Rheumatoid ArthritisEffect of Biotherapies on Fatigue in Rheumatoid Arthritis

Medscape Today Headlines — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 04:00:00 +0100

Do biotherapies cause fatigue in rheumatoid arthritis patients? Rheumatology (Source: Medscape Today Headlines)

Whether they creak, throb, lock or swell up there's a fix for every type of faulty knee

the Mail online | Health — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 22:49:13 +0100

Arthritis isn’t the only cause of pain. Here, we look at common knee problems — and what you can do about them. (Source: the Mail online | Health)

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Osteoarthritis and the inflammatory arthritides

Surgery (Medicine Publishing) — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 14:21:38 +0100

This article aims to provide surgeons with a practical, clinical overview of different forms of ‘arthritis’ – a term encompassing most of the joint pathology causing joint symptoms or dysfunction. Conventionally, arthritis can be non-inflammatory (osteoarthritis) or inflammatory (crystal and autoimmune arthropathies). Septic arthritis is an important differential diagnosis when patients present with tender, swollen joints, but is not covered here. Common symptoms and signs in patients with different types of arthritis are reviewed, as well as aetiology and pathogenesis. Non-surgical treatment is described, with particular reference to the inflammatory arthropathies since the new, effective biologic treatments are particularly important where surgery is planned or patients present wit...

ACR Announcements

Arthritis and Rheumatism — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:25:40 +0100

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Arthritis and Rheumatism — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:25:39 +0100

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The intestinal microbiome in ankylosing spondylitis: Comment on the article by Rosenbaum and Davey

Arthritis and Rheumatism — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:25:38 +0100

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Arthritis and Rheumatism — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:25:36 +0100

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Alternative explanations for development of late‐onset neutropenia in rituximab‐treated rheumatic disease patients: Comment on the article by Tesfa et al

Arthritis and Rheumatism — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:25:35 +0100

(Source: Arthritis and Rheumatism)

Intraarticular soluble interleukin‐17 receptor levels are increased in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and correlate with local mediators of inflammation: Comment on the article by Pickens et al

Arthritis and Rheumatism — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:25:32 +0100

(Source: Arthritis and Rheumatism)

Clinical images: Infarct‐associated bone sarcoma in the clinical context of systemic lupus erythematosus

Arthritis and Rheumatism — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:25:31 +0100

(Source: Arthritis and Rheumatism)

Reduced insular γ‐aminobutyric acid in fibromyalgia

Arthritis and Rheumatism — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:25:29 +0100

ConclusionDiminished inhibitory neurotransmission resulting from lower concentrations of GABA within the right anterior insula may play a role in the pathophysiology of FM and other central pain syndromes. (Source: Arthritis and Rheumatism)

Defective DNA double‐strand break repair in pediatric systemic lupus erythematosus

Arthritis and Rheumatism — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:25:27 +0100

ConclusionOur data suggest that DSB repair is defective in some lymphoblastoid cell lines from pediatric patients with SLE, especially when assessed by both NCA and CSA. Since these studies are nonspecific, further studies of DNA repair and kinetics are indicated to further delineate the underlying pathogenesis of SLE and possibly identify therapeutic targets. (Source: Arthritis and Rheumatism)

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A phase II, multicenter, open‐label study evaluating dosing and preliminary safety and efficacy of canakinumab in systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis with active systemic features

Arthritis and Rheumatism — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:25:26 +0100

ConclusionCanakinumab has a promising preliminary safety and efficacy profile in this limited cohort. Based on the findings of this trial, further studies in a larger population of children with systemic JIA are warranted. (Source: Arthritis and Rheumatism)

Small‐vessel vasculitis surrounding an uninflamed temporal artery and isolated vasa vasorum vasculitis of the temporal artery: Two subsets of giant cell arteritis

Arthritis and Rheumatism — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:25:25 +0100

ConclusionOur findings indicate that isolated VVV and SVV should be considered part of the histopathologic spectrum of GCA. (Source: Arthritis and Rheumatism)

Risk factors for relapse of antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody–associated vasculitis

Arthritis and Rheumatism — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:25:24 +0100

ConclusionRelapse of disease is common for patients with AAV. A creatinine level >200 μmoles/liter at the time of diagnosis is strongly associated with a reduced risk of relapse and may help guide monitoring and treatment of patients with AAV. (Source: Arthritis and Rheumatism)

Clinical images: Steroid‐induced chemical synovitis

Arthritis and Rheumatism — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:25:22 +0100

(Source: Arthritis and Rheumatism)

Immature muscle precursors are a source of interferon‐β in myositis: Role of Toll‐like receptor 3 activation and contribution to HLA class I up‐regulation

Arthritis and Rheumatism — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:25:21 +0100

ConclusionImmature muscle precursors may represent a local source of IFNβ and the target of an immune response involving activated DCs associated with the expression of CLRs and of IL‐12 and IL‐23, which are implicated in T cell polarization. In turn, such local production of IFNβ after TLR‐3 activation in the presence of the Th1 cytokine IFNγ may explain HLA class I overexpression in myositis. (Source: Arthritis and Rheumatism)

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Myositis‐specific anti‐155/140 autoantibodies target transcription intermediary factor 1 family proteins

Arthritis and Rheumatism — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:25:18 +0100

ConclusionAnti‐155/140 antibodies target TIF‐1 family proteins, TIF‐1α and TIF‐1β, in addition to TIF‐1γ. Since TIF‐1 proteins have significant roles in oncogenesis, these antibodies may be produced during misdirected antitumor immunity. (Source: Arthritis and Rheumatism)

Efficacy of the antiphospholipid score for the diagnosis of antiphospholipid syndrome and its predictive value for thrombotic events

Arthritis and Rheumatism — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:25:17 +0100

ConclusionThe aPL‐S is a useful quantitative index for diagnosing APS and may be a predictive marker for thrombosis in autoimmune diseases. (Source: Arthritis and Rheumatism)

Beneficial effect of novel proteasome inhibitors in murine lupus via dual inhibition of type I interferon and autoantibody‐secreting cells

Arthritis and Rheumatism — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:25:16 +0100

ConclusionInhibition of the immunoproteasome is equally efficacious as dual targeting agents in preventing lupus disease progression by targeting 2 critical pathways in disease pathogenesis, type I IFN activation and autoantibody production by plasma cells. (Source: Arthritis and Rheumatism)

Evidence for gene–gene epistatic interactions among susceptibility loci for systemic lupus erythematosus

Arthritis and Rheumatism — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:25:15 +0100

ConclusionWe provide evidence for gene–gene epistasis in systemic lupus erythematosus. These findings support a role for genetic interaction contributing to the complexity of lupus heritability. (Source: Arthritis and Rheumatism)

NLRP3 inflammasome–mediated neutrophil recruitment and hypernociception depend on leukotriene B4 in a murine model of gout

Arthritis and Rheumatism — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:25:13 +0100

ConclusionThese results reveal the role of the NLRP3 inflammasome in mediating MSU crystal–induced inflammation and dysfunction of the joints, and highlight a previously unrecognized role of LTB4 in driving NLRP3 inflammasome activation in response to MSU crystals, both in vitro and in vivo. (Source: Arthritis and Rheumatism)

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Clinical images: Synovial fluid clues to ochronosis

Arthritis and Rheumatism — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:25:12 +0100

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Cyclic loading increases friction and changes cartilage surface integrity in lubricin‐mutant mouse knees

Arthritis and Rheumatism — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:25:11 +0100

ConclusionOur findings indicate that mice lacking lubricin have increased baseline coefficient of friction values and are not protected against further increases caused by loading. Prg4+/− mice are indistinguishable from Prg4+/+ mice at baseline, but have significantly greater coefficient of friction values following 26 hours of loading. Lubricin dosage affects joint properties during loading, and may have clinical implications in patients for whom injury or illness alters lubricin abundance. (Source: Arthritis and Rheumatism)

Osteoarthritic change is delayed in a Ctsk‐knockout mouse model of osteoarthritis

Arthritis and Rheumatism — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:25:09 +0100

ConclusionThese results indicate that CTK plays crucial direct roles in the early to intermediate stage of OA development. CTK‐positive chondrocytes and synovial cells may be a possible target to prevent disease progression in OA. (Source: Arthritis and Rheumatism)

Induction of osteoarthritis and metabolic inflammation by a very high‐fat diet in mice: Effects of short‐term exercise

Arthritis and Rheumatism — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:25:08 +0100

ConclusionObesity induced by a very high‐fat diet in mice causes OA and systemic inflammation in proportion to body fat. Increased joint loading is not sufficient to explain the increased incidence of knee OA with obesity, as wheel running is protective rather than damaging. Exercise improves glucose tolerance and disrupts the coexpression of proinflammatory cytokines, suggesting that increased aerobic exercise may act independently of weight loss in promoting joint health. (Source: Arthritis and Rheumatism)

Prevalence of magnetic resonance imaging–defined atrophic and hypertrophic phenotypes of knee osteoarthritis in a population‐based cohort

Arthritis and Rheumatism — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:25:05 +0100

ConclusionThe majority of knees with severe tibiofemoral cartilage damage exhibited moderate to large osteophytes. The larger the osteophyte, the more likely was the presence of severe cartilage damage. A minority of knees exhibited the atrophic phenotype, which also included knees without radiographic OA. The hypertrophic phenotype was extremely rare. (Source: Arthritis and Rheumatism)

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The incidence of knee arthroplasty for primary osteoarthritis grows rapidly among baby boomers: A population‐based study in Finland

Arthritis and Rheumatism — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:25:04 +0100

ConclusionWe demonstrated a rapid increase in the incidence of arthroplasty among patients with primary knee OA in Finland, especially in those ages 50–59 years. There was no single explanatory factor behind this finding, although some of the growth might be due to the increased incidence noted in low‐ and intermediate‐volume hospitals. (Source: Arthritis and Rheumatism)

Histone deacetylases are dysregulated in rheumatoid arthritis and a novel histone deacetylase 3–selective inhibitor reduces interleukin‐6 production by peripheral blood mononuclear cells from rheumatoid arthritis patients

Arthritis and Rheumatism — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:25:03 +0100

ConclusionHDAC activity is dysregulated in RA PBMCs and is a potential target for therapeutic intervention, as it is not affected by conventional anti‐TNF treatment with etanercept. Both the selective and the nonselective HDAC inhibitors (MI192 and TSA, respectively) were found to regulate cytokine production from PBMCs, but their effects were cell type and compound specific. HDAC inhibitors have potential in the treatment of RA, and HDAC‐selective inhibition may improve the therapeutic margin of safety; however, further clinical characterization and evaluation for adverse effects is needed. (Source: Arthritis and Rheumatism)

CXCL12γ isoform is expressed on endothelial and dendritic cells in rheumatoid arthritis synovium and regulates T cell activation

Arthritis and Rheumatism — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:25:02 +0100

ConclusionCXCL12γ shows a specific and similar distribution in RA synovium and lymphoid tissue, consistent with its higher HS binding affinity. Presentation of CXCL12 to T cells on membrane HS in DCs can play a distinct regulatory role in T cell activation. (Source: Arthritis and Rheumatism)

Interferon signals and monocytic sensitization of the interferon‐γ signaling pathway in the peripheral blood of patients with rheumatoid arthritis

Arthritis and Rheumatism — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:25:00 +0100

ConclusionIn addition to supporting the role of IFNs in systemic proinflammatory activity, the results of this study further suggest preactivation of the IFNγ/STAT‐1 signaling pathway, especially in RA monocytes. (Source: Arthritis and Rheumatism)

Molecular imaging of cartilage damage of finger joints in early rheumatoid arthritis with delayed gadolinium‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging

Arthritis and Rheumatism — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:24:59 +0100

ConclusionOur findings indicate that cartilage damage is present in the MCP joints of patients with early RA despite the absence of joint space narrowing on standard radiographs and MRI. Cartilage damage in RA can be imaged with dGEMRIC. (Source: Arthritis and Rheumatism)

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The clinical picture of rheumatoid arthritis according to the 2010 American College of Rheumatology/European League Against Rheumatism criteria: Is this still the same disease?

Arthritis and Rheumatism — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:24:57 +0100

ConclusionUse of the 2010 ACR/EULAR criteria clearly allows earlier diagnosis of RA, although the clinical picture is slightly different on the group level, and RA may be falsely diagnosed in some patients with self‐limiting disease. (Source: Arthritis and Rheumatism)

Microchimerism in the rheumatoid nodules of patients with rheumatoid arthritis

Arthritis and Rheumatism — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:24:56 +0100

ConclusionOur findings indicate that microchimerism is frequently present in the rheumatoid nodules of RA patients. Since microchimerism is genetically disparate, whether microchimerism in rheumatoid nodules serves as an allogeneic stimulus or allogeneic target warrants further investigation. (Source: Arthritis and Rheumatism)

Structural changes of the brain in rheumatoid arthritis

Arthritis and Rheumatism — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:24:55 +0100

ConclusionOur results suggest that RA is associated with changes in the subcortical gray matter rather than with cortical gray matter atrophy. Since the basal ganglia play an important role in motor control as well as in pain processing and in modulating behavior in response to aversive stimuli, we suggest that these changes may result from altered motor control or prolonged pain processing. The differences in brain volume may reflect either generalized atrophy or differences in brain development. (Source: Arthritis and Rheumatism)

Safety and efficacy of ocrelizumab in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and an inadequate response to at least one tumor necrosis factor inhibitor: Results of a forty‐eight–week randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, parallel‐group phase III trial

Arthritis and Rheumatism — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:24:53 +0100

ConclusionPatients in both of the ocrelizumab groups met the clinical primary efficacy end points. Inhibition of change in the SHS was statistically significant at 48 weeks for those in the ocrelizumab 500 mg group. The rate of serious infections in this trial was higher for both ocrelizumab doses as compared with placebo. (Source: Arthritis and Rheumatism)

Safety and efficacy of ocrelizumab in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and an inadequate response to methotrexate: Results of a forty‐eight–week randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, parallel‐group phase III trial

Arthritis and Rheumatism — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:24:52 +0100

ConclusionWith both ocrelizumab doses, the primary end point was met, and the signs and symptoms of RA were significantly improved at weeks 24 and 48. Ocrelizumab also significantly inhibited the progression of joint damage. A higher rate of serious infections was observed with 500 mg of ocrelizumab as compared with ocrelizumab 200 mg or placebo. (Source: Arthritis and Rheumatism)

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Autoantibodies to transcription intermediary factor 1 in dermatomyositis shed insight into the cancer–myositis connection

Arthritis and Rheumatism — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:24:50 +0100

(Source: Arthritis and Rheumatism)

Beyond the “syndrome”: Antiphospholipid antibodies as risk factors

Arthritis and Rheumatism — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:24:49 +0100

(Source: Arthritis and Rheumatism)

In this issue

Arthritis and Rheumatism — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:24:45 +0100

(Source: Arthritis and Rheumatism)

The association of lumbar intervertebral disc degeneration on MRI in overweight and obese adults: A population‐based study

Arthritis and Rheumatism — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:20:31 +0100

Conclusions:In one of the largest studies to systematically assess lumbar disc degeneration on MRI, our study noted a significant association between the presence, increased extent, and global severity of disc degeneration in overweight and obese adults. (Source: Arthritis and Rheumatism)

Lumbar disc degeneration more likely in overweight and obese adults

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Wiley-Blackwell) One of the largest studies to investigate lumbar spine disc degeneration found that adults who are overweight or obese were significantly more likely to have disc degeneration than those with a normal body mass index. Details of this study now appear in Arthritis & Rheumatism, a journal published by Wiley-Blackwell on behalf of the American College of Rheumatology. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

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Evaluation of finger joint synovial vascularity in patients with rheumatoid arthritis using contrast‐enhanced ultrasound with water immersion and a stabilized probe

Journal of Clinical Ultrasound — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions.CEUS with a fixed probe on finger joints immersed in water detected synovial vascularization in RA, producing results suitable for standardized software analysis and avoiding artifacts. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound, 2012 (Source: Journal of Clinical Ultrasound)

Is there any scientific evidence for the use of glucosamine in the management of human osteoarthritis?

Arthritis Research and Therapy — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Glucosamine in its acetylated form is a natural constituent of some glycosaminoglycans (e.g. hyaluronic acid and keratan sulfate) in the proteoglycans found in articular cartilage, intervertebral disc and synovial fluid. Glucosamine can be extracted and stabilized by chemical modification and used as a drug or a nutraceutical. It has been approved for the treatment of osteoarthritis (OA) in Europe to promote cartilage and joint health and is sold over the counter as a dietary supplement in the United States. Various formulations of glucosamine have been tested including glucosamine sulfate and glucosamine hydrochloride. In vitro and in vivo studies have uncovered glucosamine's mechanisms of action on articular tissues (cartilage, synovial membrane and subchondral bone) and justified its ef...

Confirmation of association of FCGR3B but not FCGR3A copy number with susceptibility to autoantibody positive rheumatoid arthritis

Human Mutation — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

AbstractThe FCGR locus encoding the low‐affinity Fcγ receptors for IgG has largely been missed by genome‐wide association studies due to complications with structural variation and segmental duplication. Recently identified CNVs affecting FCGR3A and FCGR3B have been linked to a number of autoimmune disorders. We have developed and validated a novel quantitative sequence variant (QSV) assay in combination with an adapted paralogue ratio test to examine independent CNVs carrying FCGR3A and FCGR3B in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) compared with healthy controls (n=1115 and 654, respectively). Implementation of a robust statistical analysis framework (CNVtools) allowed for systematic batch effects and for the inherent uncertainty of copy number assignment, thus avoiding two major sources of fa...

Extracellular nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (NAMPT/visfatin) inhibits insulin-like growth factor-1 signaling and proteoglycan synthesis in human articular chondrocytes

Arthritis Research and Therapy — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Our study demonstrates that eNAMPT/visfatin inhibits IGF-1 function in articular chondrocytes by activating the ERK/MAPK pathway independent of the IGF-1 receptor. Since eNAMPT levels are elevated in the synovial fluid of OA patients, the signaling pathway activated by eNAMPT could contribute to IGF-1 resistance in OA. (Source: Arthritis Research and Therapy)

Long‐term outcome of early neuropsychiatric events due to active disease in systemic lupus erythematosus

Arthritis Care and Research — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusion:This study shows that early neuropsychiatric events due to active SLE are not major contributors to long‐term disease activity, accumulation of damage or health‐related quality‐of‐life. The long‐term prognosis and patterns of disease in SLE patients with early NP events are similar to those of SLE patients without these events. © 2012 by the American College of Rheumatology (Source: Arthritis Care and Research)

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Brief fear of movement scale for osteoarthritis

Arthritis Care and Research — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusion:The brief fear of movement scale identified in this study provides a promising and valid approach for assessing fear of movement in individuals with osteoarthritis. This brief scale demonstrated several important strengths including a small number of items, sound psychometric properties, and consistent performance across diverse groups of individuals with osteoarthritis. © 2012 by the American College of Rheumatology (Source: Arthritis Care and Research)

A woman with rheumatoid arthritis, Sjögren's syndrome, leg ulcer, and significant weight loss

Arthritis Care and Research — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Arthritis Care and Research)

Consensus treatment plans for new‐onset systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis

Arthritis Care and Research — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusion:Four standardized treatment plans were developed for new‐onset sJIA. Coupled with data collection at defined intervals, use of these treatment plans will create the opportunity to evaluate comparative effectiveness in an observational setting to optimize initial management of sJIA. © 2012 by the American College of Rheumatology (Source: Arthritis Care and Research)

Stealthy leprosy pathogen evades critical vitamin D-dependent immune response

UCLA Newsroom: Health Sciences — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 18:00:00 +0100

A team of UCLA scientists has found that the pathogen that causes leprosy has a remarkable ability to avoid the human immune system by inhibiting the antimicrobial responses important to our defenses. In one of the first laboratory studies of its kind, researchers discovered that the leprosy pathogen Mycobacterium leprae was able to reduce and evade immune activity that is dependent on vitamin D, a natural hormone that plays an essential role in the body's fight against infections. The pathogen manipulated micro-RNAs, tiny molecules made of ribonucleic acids that carry information and that help regulate genes to direct cell activity, including immune system defenses. Micro-RNAs are short RNAs that do not code information for proteins, which carry out all cell activity; ...

Kruppel-Like Factor 2 (KLF2) Regulates Monocyte Differentiation and Functions in mBSA and IL-1β-Induced Arthritis.

Current Molecular Medicine — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 03:19:02 +0100

Authors: Das M, Lu J, Joseph M, Aggarwal R, Kanji S, McMichael BK, Lee BS, Agarwal S, Ray-Chaudhury A, Iwenofu OH, Kuppusamy P, Pompili VJ, Jain MK, Das H Abstract Kruppel-like factor 2 (KLF2) plays an important role in the regulation of a variety of immune cells, including monocytes. We have previously shown that KLF2 inhibits proinflammatory activation of monocytes. However, the role of KLF2 in arthritis is yet to be investigated. In the current study, we show that recruitment of significantly greater numbers of inflammatory subset of CD11b+F4/80+Ly6C+ monocytes to the inflammatory sites in KLF2 hemizygous mice compared to the wild type littermate controls. In parallel, inflammatory mediators, MCP-1, Cox-2 and PAI-1 were significantly up-regulated in bone marrow-derived monocytes...

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HPV Vaccine Not Linked To Autoimmune Disorders, Study

Health News from Medical News Today — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 00:00:00 +0100

A two-year study of nearly 190,000 girls and women, finds that Gardasil, the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine made by Merck & Co, does not trigger autoimmune disorders such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, type 1 diabetes and multiple sclerosis. The results are published in the Journal of Internal Medicine. Study lead author Dr Chun Chao, a research scientist at the Kaiser Permanente Department of Research & Evaluation in Pasadena, California, said in a statement released on Friday, that: "This kind of safety information may help parents with vaccination decisions... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

In Rheumatoid Arthritis, Steroids Prevent Protein Changes Seen In The Joints

Health News from Medical News Today — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 08:00:00 +0100

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disease where the body begins to attack the joints and organs of the body. Proteins within inflamed joints are often modified by citrullination, a process that converts the protein building block arginine into citrulline. These two amino acids have very different physical properties and consequently conversion can result in aberrant changes in the three-dimensional structure of an affected protein... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Prevent Worsening Arthritis

About.com Eating Disorders — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Patients diagnosed with early arthritis often worry about needing joint replacement surgery. However, most people with early arthritis can take steps to prevent the progression of their disease. (Source: About.com Eating Disorders)

Steps of a Hip Replacement

About.com Eating Disorders — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Hip replacement surgery is a treatment for severe arthritis. Hip replacement involves placing a metal and plastic ball and socket in the arthritic joint to substitute for the worn out cartilage. Each step of a hip replacement surgery is explained. (Source: About.com Eating Disorders)

Walking Aids

About.com Eating Disorders — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Walking aids are helpful for patients who have chronic problems, including hip and knee arthritis, as well as patients who have acute injuries, including ankle sprains and leg fractures. Finding the right type of walking aid will help you along the way. (Source: About.com Eating Disorders)

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Orthopaedic Surgery Rates Declining in Rheumatoid ArthritisOrthopaedic Surgery Rates Declining in Rheumatoid Arthritis

Medscape Today Headlines — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 00:31:26 +0100

Joint surgery rates have declined since 1980 among patients with rheumatoid arthritis, suggesting that treatment is changing the course of disease. Medscape Medical News (Source: Medscape Today Headlines)

Endstage arthritis following tibia plateau fractures: average 10-year follow up.

Canadian Journal of Surgery — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 16:02:13 +0100

Conclusion: Our findings may be used to counsel patients who require surgical treatment of tibia plateau fractures about the long-term risk of requiring reconstructive knee surgery for endstage arthritis in the knee. PMID: 22269220 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Canadian Journal of Surgery)

Too many rheumatoid arthritis patients inactive, study finds

USATODAY.com Health — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 14:05:24 +0100

Experts believe physical activity is important to keep joints flexible, improve balance and strength and reduce pain, the researchers noted. (Source: USATODAY.com Health)

ARHP announcements

Arthritis Care and Research — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 10:29:38 +0100

(Source: Arthritis Care and Research)

Unusual case of a swollen painful toe in a young man

Arthritis Care and Research — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 10:29:37 +0100

(Source: Arthritis Care and Research)

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Scleroderma digital ulcers complicated by infection with fecal pathogens

Arthritis Care and Research — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 10:29:36 +0100

ConclusionA number of effective measures involving health care personnel and hospital environment are essential in the management of digital ulcers and prevention of infectious complications. In addition, the prevalence of fecal pathogens in one‐quarter of cases, never reported previously, suggests an important role of a patient's self‐care limitations, mainly during intercurrent home medications. Consequently, methodical education on hand hygiene of both patients and relatives, frequently involved in ulcer medications, is mandatory to avoid such deleterious complications. (Source: Arthritis Care and Research)

Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug intake according to the Assessment of SpondyloArthritis International Society Score in clinical trials evaluating tumor necrosis factor blockers: Example of etanercept in advanced ankylosing spondylitis

Arthritis Care and Research — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 10:29:35 +0100

ConclusionThis study confirms the feasibility and simplicity of the ASAS‐NSAID score and suggests that such a score be integrated in all studies in spondylarthritis either to check the quality of the observed data (i.e., intergroup baseline characteristics) or to evaluate the NSAID‐sparing effect of other therapies. (Source: Arthritis Care and Research)

Self‐management strategies in overweight and obese Canadians with arthritis

Arthritis Care and Research — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 10:29:33 +0100

ConclusionFewer than half of the overweight and obese Canadians with arthritis engaged in both weight control/loss and exercise. The provision of targeted clinical recommendations (particularly low in individuals that did not engage in any self‐management strategies) may help to facilitate participation. (Source: Arthritis Care and Research)

Assessment of health‐related quality of life as an outcome measure in granulomatosis with polyangiitis (Wegener's)

Arthritis Care and Research — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 10:29:31 +0100

ConclusionHRQOL, as measured by the SF‐36, is reduced among patients with GPA. SF‐36 measures are modestly associated with other disease outcomes and discriminate between disease states of importance in GPA. (Source: Arthritis Care and Research)

Rarity of anti–3‐hydroxy‐3‐methylglutaryl‐coenzyme A reductase antibodies in statin users, including those with self‐limited musculoskeletal side effects

Arthritis Care and Research — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 10:29:30 +0100

ConclusionThe majority of patients with and without statin exposure, including those with self‐limited statin intolerance, do not develop anti‐HMGCR antibodies. Therefore, anti‐HMGCR antibodies are highly specific for those with an autoimmune myopathy. (Source: Arthritis Care and Research)

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Relationship between obesity and foot pain and its association with fat mass, fat distribution, and muscle mass

Arthritis Care and Research — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 10:29:28 +0100

ConclusionIncreasing BMI, specifically android fat mass, is strongly associated with foot pain and disability. This may imply both biomechanical and metabolic mechanisms. (Source: Arthritis Care and Research)

Women with gout: Efficacy and safety of urate‐lowering with febuxostat and allopurinol

Arthritis Care and Research — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 10:29:27 +0100

ConclusionThese data suggest that febuxostat 80 mg may be more efficacious than commonly prescribed doses of allopurinol in female gout subjects with high rates of comorbidities. (Source: Arthritis Care and Research)

Association of magnetic resonance imaging–based knee cartilage T2 measurements and focal knee lesions with knee pain: Data from the Osteoarthritis Initiative

Arthritis Care and Research — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 10:29:26 +0100

ConclusionThese results suggest that elevated cartilage T2 values are associated with findings of pain in the early phase of OA, whereas among morphologic knee abnormalities only knee cartilage lesions are significantly associated with knee pain status. (Source: Arthritis Care and Research)

Long‐term outcomes and costs of an integrated rehabilitation program for chronic knee pain: A pragmatic, cluster randomized, controlled trial

Arthritis Care and Research — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 10:29:25 +0100

ConclusionClinical and cost benefits of ESCAPE‐knee pain were still evident 30 months after completing the program. ESCAPE‐knee pain is a more effective and efficient model of care that could substantially improve the health, well‐being, and independence of many people, while reducing health care costs. (Source: Arthritis Care and Research)

Diabetes mellitus risk in rheumatoid arthritis: Reduced incidence with anti–tumor necrosis factor α therapy

Arthritis Care and Research — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 10:29:21 +0100

ConclusionIn this inception RA cohort, anti‐TNFα use was associated with a 51% reduction in risk of developing diabetes mellitus. (Source: Arthritis Care and Research)

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Determinants of discordance in patients' and physicians' rating of rheumatoid arthritis disease activity

Arthritis Care and Research — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 10:29:20 +0100

ConclusionNearly 36% of patients had discordance in RA activity assessment from their physicians. Sensitivity to the “disease experience” of patients, particularly pain and fatigue, is warranted for effective care of RA. (Source: Arthritis Care and Research)

Pain as an important predictor of psychosocial health in patients with rheumatoid arthritis

Arthritis Care and Research — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 10:29:17 +0100

ConclusionThis large cohort study demonstrates that pain is the most important predictor of a patient's psychosocial health in RA patients. This suggests that physicians should place greater emphasis on pain management. (Source: Arthritis Care and Research)

Work productivity in scleroderma: Analysis from the University of California, Los Angeles scleroderma quality of life study

Arthritis Care and Research — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 10:29:15 +0100

ConclusionSSc has a major impact on productivity at home and at work. Nearly 40% of patients reported disability due to their SSc. (Source: Arthritis Care and Research)

Longitudinal study of the impact of incident organ manifestations and increased disease activity on work loss among persons with systemic lupus erythematosus

Arthritis Care and Research — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 10:29:13 +0100

ConclusionIncident thrombosis and musculoskeletal manifestations, multiple manifestations, and increased disease activity are associated with the risk of work loss in SLE. (Source: Arthritis Care and Research)

Systematic review of the epidemiology of systemic lupus erythematosus in the Asia‐Pacific region: Prevalence, incidence, clinical features, and mortality

Arthritis Care and Research — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 10:29:12 +0100

ConclusionThis review highlights the need to closely monitor Asian SLE patients in Asian countries for renal and cardiovascular involvement, especially those who may not receive proper treatment and are therefore at greater risk of severe disease. We hope this will encourage further research specific to this region and lead to improved clinical management. (Source: Arthritis Care and Research)

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The public health impact of risk factors for physical inactivity in adults with rheumatoid arthritis

Arthritis Care and Research — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 10:27:36 +0100

Conclusion:These results support development of interventions that increase motivation for physical activity and that lead to stronger beliefs related to physical activity's benefits should be considered in public health initiatives to reduce the prevalence of physical inactivity in adults with rheumatoid arthritis. © 2012 by the American College of Rheumatology (Source: Arthritis Care and Research)

Nearly half of people with rheumatoid arthritis are inactive despite benefits

Nursing Times Breaking News — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 09:58:00 +0100

Over 40% of rheumatoid arthritis sufferers are not physically active despite the benefits involved, according to a new study. (Source: Nursing Times Breaking News)

Sedentary Lifestyle A Problem For 2 In 5 Adults With Rheumatoid Arthritis

Health News from Medical News Today — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 09:00:00 +0100

A new study, funded by a grant from the National Institute for Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS), found that two in five adults (42%) with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) were inactive. Taking measures to motivate RA patients to increase their physical activity will improve public health according to the findings now available in Arthritis Care & Research, a journal published by Wiley-Blackwell on behalf of the American College of Rheumatology (ACR). The ACR estimates nearly 1.3 million adults in the U.S... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

2-Year Study Finds Gardasil Does Not Trigger Autoimmune Conditions After Vaccination

Health News from Medical News Today — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 08:00:00 +0100

Gardasil, the human papillomavirus vaccine that is now recommended for male and female adolescents and young adults, does not trigger autoimmune conditions such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, type 1 diabetes or multiple sclerosis after vaccination in young women, according to a new study in the Journal of Internal Medicine. Kaiser Permanente researchers used electronic health records to conduct an observational safety study of 189,629 females aged 9 to 26 years old in California who were followed for six months after receiving each dose of the quadrivalent HPV vaccine in 2006-2008... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)