| 1. |
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| 2. |
- Abul-Kasim, Kasim, et al.
(author)
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Intracranial manifestations in SAPHO syndrome: the first case report in literature.
- 2012
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In: Rheumatology International. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 1437-160X .- 0172-8172. ; 32:6, s. 1797-1799
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- A 41-year-old woman with SAPHO syndrome presented with numbness of her left arm followed by a generalized seizure. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging of the brain revealed a small ring enhancing lesion in the right parietal lobe with adjacent meningeal thickening and enhancement. Surgical removal and histopathology showed evidence of severe chronic sterile inflammation and no malignant cell. Symptoms recurred and a lesion were again detected on radiological follow-up, but improvement occurred following treatment with antibiotics and biphosphonate, achieving a low inflammatory activity, reduction in CNS lesions and relative clinical well-being. This is a first report in literature about the central nervous system involvement in a patient with SAPHO syndrome.
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| 3. |
- Amkreutz, J. A. M. P., et al.
(author)
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Association Between Bone Mineral Density and Autoantibodies in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis
- 2021
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In: Arthritis and Rheumatology. - : Wiley. - 2326-5191 .- 2326-5205. ; 73:6, s. 921-930
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Objective: Autoantibodies, such as anti–citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPAs), have been described as inducing bone loss in rheumatoid arthritis (RA), which can also be reflected by bone mineral density (BMD). We therefore examined the association between osteoporosis and autoantibodies in two independent RA cohorts. Methods: Dual x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) of the lumbar spine and left hip was performed in 408 Dutch patients with early RA during 5 years of follow-up and in 198 Swedish patients with early RA during 10 years of follow-up. The longitudinal effect of ACPAs and other autoantibodies on several BMD measures was assessed using generalized estimating equations. Results: In the Dutch cohort, significantly lower BMD at baseline was observed in ACPA-positive patients compared to ACPA-negative patients, with an estimated marginal mean BMD in the left hip of 0.92 g/cm2 (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 0.91–0.93) versus 0.95 g/cm2 (95% CI 0.93–0.97) (P = 0.01). In line with this, significantly lower Z scores at baseline were noted in the ACPA-positive group compared to the ACPA-negative group (estimated marginal mean Z score in the left hip of 0.18 [95% CI 0.08–0.29] versus 0.48 [95% CI 0.33–0.63]) (P < 0.01). However, despite clear differences at baseline, ACPA positivity was not associated with greater decrease in absolute BMD or Z scores over time. Furthermore, there was no association between BMD and higher levels of ACPAs or other autoantibodies (rheumatoid factor and anti–carbamylated protein antibodies). In the Swedish cohort, ACPA-positive patients tended to have a higher prevalence of osteopenia at baseline (P = 0.04), but again, ACPA positivity was not associated with an increased prevalence of osteopenia or osteoporosis over time. Conclusion: The presence of ACPAs is associated with significantly lower BMD at baseline, but not with greater BMD loss over time in treated RA patients. These results suggest that ACPAs alone do not appear to contribute to bone loss after disease onset when disease activity is well-managed. © 2020 The Authors. Arthritis & Rheumatology published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American College of Rheumatology.
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| 4. |
- Bergström, Ulf, et al.
(author)
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Cardiovascular morbidity and mortality remain similar in two cohorts of patients with long-standing rheumatoid arthritis seen in 1978 and 1995 in Malmo, Sweden.
- 2009
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In: Rheumatology (Oxford, England). - : Oxford University Press (OUP). - 1462-0332 .- 1462-0324. ; 48, s. 1600-1605
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Objective. Patients with RA have an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Management of RA has changed substantially over time. Our aim was to evaluate changes in cardiovascular morbidity and mortality over the period of 1978-2002. Methods. Two cohorts of consecutive patients with RA seen at outpatient clinics in Malmö, Sweden, were started in 1978 (n = 148) and 1995 (n = 161) and compared with the corresponding background population. Patients were followed for 8 years, and fatal and non-fatal cardiovascular first events were identified using two national registers, hospital discharge and cause of death. Standardized morbidity ratio (SMoR) and standardized mortality ratio (SMR), adjusted for age and sex were calculated. Results. Sex distribution, age at disease onset and disease duration were similar in both groups. The 1995 cohort was more extensively treated with DMARDs and had less disease activity and disability. Total cardiovascular morbidity was increased in the 1978 cohort (SMoR 158; 95% CI 111, 225) as well as in the 1995 cohort (SMoR 168; 95% CI 118, 232). This was mainly due to an increased risk of coronary artery disease. Overall mortality was elevated in the 1978 cohort but not in the 1995 cohort. There was no change in cardiovascular excess mortality (SMR 175; 95% CI 100, 284; and 172; 100, 276 for the two cohorts, respectively). Conclusions. There were similar elevations in the incidence of cardiovascular comorbidity in RA patients, identified two decades apart compared with the general population, in spite of more extensive treatment and reduced disease severity in the more recent cohort.
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| 5. |
- Bergström, Ulf, et al.
(author)
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Effects of adalimumab treatment on endothelial cell activation markers in the skeletal muscle of patients with rheumatoid arthritis.
- 2014
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In: Clinical and Experimental Rheumatology. - 1593-098X .- 0392-856X. ; 32:6, s. 883-890
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), particularly those with severe disease, have increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Previous studies suggest that endothelial cell activation may contribute to this co-morbidity, and that treatment with tumour necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors could reduce the risk of CVD in these patients. The aim of this study was to investigate endothelial cell activation markers in muscle tissue of patients after adalimumab treatment.
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| 6. |
- Bergström, Ulf, et al.
(author)
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Effects of Treatment with Adalimumab on Blood Lipid Levels and Atherosclerosis in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis
- 2018
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In: Current Therapeutic Research - Clinical and Experimental. - : Elsevier BV. - 0011-393X. ; 89, s. 1-6
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background: Treatment with tumor necrosis factor inhibitors for rheumatoid arthritis has been associated with a decreased risk of cardiovascular disease in observational studies. There are conflicting data on the influence of tumor necrosis factor inhibitors on lipid levels. Objectives: To evaluate the effect of treatment with adalimumab on blood lipid levels, lipoproteins, and atherosclerosis of the carotid artery. Methods: Fourteen patients with active rheumatoid arthritis (11 women and 3 men; mean age 63.7 years; median disease duration 9.0 years; and 78% rheumatoid factor positive) were treated with adalimumab 40 mg subcutaneously every 2 weeks and followed for 3 months. The patients had not been treated with adalimumab previously and had not received other tumor necrosis factor inhibitors within the past 3 months or moderate/high dose corticosteroids within the past 2 weeks. The intima-media thickness of the common carotid artery was assessed using B mode ultrasonography. Triglycerides, total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and HDL cholesterol levels were analyzed in fresh fasting blood samples, whereas apolipoprotein B and apolipoprotein A1 (apoA1) levels were determined in thawed plasma samples using standard turbidimetric immunoassays. Results: Total cholesterol (mean = 5.36 vs 5.96 mmol/L; P = 0.005), LDL cholesterol (mean = 3.33 vs 3.77 mmol/L; P =.005), HDL cholesterol (mean = 1.43 vs 1.55 mmol/L; P = 0.048), apolipoprotein B (mean = 1.04 vs 1.13 g/L; P =.012), and apoA1 (mean = 1.42 vs 1.58 g/L; P = 0.005) all increased, but there were no major changes in the LDL to HDL cholesterol ratio (median = 2.56 vs 2.35; P = 0.27) or the apolipoprotein B to apoA1 ratio (mean = 0.76 vs 0.74; P = 0.46). There was no change in triglyceride levels (P = 0.55). Disease activity decreased significantly from baseline to the 3-month evaluation (disease activity score based on 28 joints mean = 5.6 vs 4.1; P = 0.007). An increase in apoA1 correlated with decreases in the patient global assessment of disease severity (r = 0.79; P = 0.001) and C-reactive protein level (r = 0.74; P = 0.003). Changes in the apoliprotein B to apoA1 ratio correlated with changes in erythrocyte sedimentation rate (r = 0.54; P = 0.046). There was no major change in the common carotid artery intima-media thickness (mean = 0.78 vs 0.80 mm; P = 0.48). Conclusions: Although these results suggest that control of inflammation could have a beneficial effect on the lipid profile through an increase in HDL cholesterol levels, the observed protective effect on cardiovascular disease events by tumor necrosis factor blockers is likely to be explained by other mechanisms than changes in lipid levels or short-term effects on atherosclerosis of the carotid artery. © 2018 The Authors
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| 7. |
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| 8. |
- Bergström, Ulf, et al.
(author)
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Pulmonary dysfunction, smoking, socioeconomic status and the risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis.
- 2011
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In: Rheumatology (Oxford, England). - : Oxford University Press (OUP). - 1462-0332 .- 1462-0324. ; 50, s. 2005-2013
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Objectives. Environmental risk factors are of potential interest for both prevention and treatment of RA. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of pulmonary function, smoking and socio-economic status on the future risk of RA. Methods. Between 1974 and 1992, 22 444 men and 10 902 women were included in the Malmö Preventive Medicine Program (MPMP). Pulmonary function was assessed by a standard screening spirometry. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and restrictive pulmonary dysfunction were defined based on pulmonary function tests. Individuals who developed RA were identified by linking the MPMP database to national and local RA registers. The patients were classified according to the 1987 ACR criteria for RA. Four matched controls for every case were selected. Results. We identified 290 cases of incident RA (151 men/139 women; mean age at diagnosis 60 years). The median time from inclusion to diagnosis was 12 years. Forced vital capacity and forced expiratory volume within 1 s values were similar in cases and controls, overall and also in separate analysis of those screened ≤8 years before diagnosis. There was no association between COPD or restrictive pulmonary dysfunction and subsequent development of RA. Current smoking was a strong predictor for RA [odds ratio (OR) 1.79; 95% CI 1.32, 2.42]. Blue-collar workers had an increased risk of RA (OR 1.54; 95% CI 1.12, 2.10), independent of smoking. Conclusion. Pulmonary dysfunction did not predict RA, but smoking and low socio-economic status were independent risk factors for RA. Other effects of smoking may be important for RA susceptibility
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| 9. |
- Bergström, Ulf, et al.
(author)
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Smoking, low formal level of education, alcohol consumption, and the risk of rheumatoid arthritis.
- 2013
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In: Scandinavian Journal of Rheumatology. - : Informa UK Limited. - 1502-7732 .- 0300-9742. ; 42:2, s. 123-130
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Objective: Suggested predictors of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) include environmental exposure, such as smoking. Our purpose was to investigate potential predictors of RA in a nested case-control study based on a prospective cohort. Method: Between 1991 and 1996, 30 447 persons were included in the Malmö Diet and Cancer Study (MDCS). Individuals who developed RA after inclusion up to 31 December 2004 were identified by linking the database to different registers. Four controls were selected for every case. Data on lifestyle factors were collected in the MDCS. Results: We identified 172 incident cases of RA [36 men/136 women, mean age at diagnosis 63 years, 69% rheumatoid factor (RF) positive, median time from inclusion to diagnosis 5 (range 1-13) years]. In bivariate analyses, baseline smoking [odds ratio (OR) 2.02, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.31-3.12] and a low level of formal education (i.e. ≤ 8 years; OR 2.42, 95% CI 1.18-4.93 vs. University degree) predicted subsequent development of RA. Infrequent baseline alcohol consumption was a predictor of RA (OR 3.47, 95% CI 1.91-6.30) compared to recent use (within the past month), and individuals with moderate baseline alcohol consumption (3.5-15.2 g/day vs. < 3.5 g/day) tended to have a reduced risk of RA (OR 0.48, 95% CI 0.22-1.05) in multivariate analyses, adjusted for smoking and level of education. Conclusions: Smoking and a low level of formal education were found to be independent predictors of RA. Moderate alcohol consumption may also be associated with a reduced risk.
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| 10. |
- Bower, Hannah, et al.
(author)
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Are JAKis more effective among elderly patients with RA, smokers and those with higher cardiovascular risk? A comparative effectiveness study of b/tsDMARDs in Sweden.
- 2023
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In: RMD open. - : BMJ Publishing Group Ltd. - 2056-5933. ; 9:4
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- To investigate whether the relative effectiveness of janus kinase inhibitors (JAKis) versus tumour necrosis factor inhibitors (TNFi) or other biological disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs in rheumatoid arthritis differ by the presence or absence of risk factors for cardiovascular (CV) disease, age, sex and smoking.Through Swedish registers, we identified 13493 individuals with 3166 JAKi, 5575 non-TNFi and 11 286 TNFi treatment initiations 2016-2022. All lines of therapy were included, with the majority in second line or higher. Treatment response was defined as the proportion reaching European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR) good response and Clinical Disease Activity Index (CDAI) remission, respectively, within 6 months. Crude percentage point differences in these proportions (JAKis, and non-TNFis, vs TNFis) overall and by risk factors were observed, and adjusted for confounders using linear regression models. Predicted probabilities of response and remission were estimated from adjusted Poisson models, and presented across CV risk and age.Overall, adjusted percentage point differences indicated higher response (+5.0%, 95% CI 2.2% to 7.9%) and remission (+5.8%, 95% CI 3.2% to 8.5%) with JAKis versus TNFis. The adjusted percentage point differences for response in those above 65, at elevated CV risk, and smokers were +5.9% (95% CI 2.7% to 9.0%), +8.3% (95% CI 5.3% to 11.4%) and +6.0% (95% CI 3.3% to 8.7%), respectively. The corresponding estimates for remission were +8.0% (95% CI 5.3% to 10.8%), +5.6% (95% CI 3.0% to 8.2%) and +7.6% (95% CI 5.5% to 9.7%).As used in clinical practice, response and remission at 6 months with JAKis are higher than with TNFi. Among patients with risk factors of concern, effectiveness is similar or numerically further increased. For individualised benefit-to-risk ratios to guide treatment choice, safety and effectiveness in specific patient segments should be considered.
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| 11. |
- Bower, H., et al.
(author)
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Effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on patients with inflammatory joint diseases in Sweden: from infection severity to impact on care provision
- 2021
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In: Rmd Open. - : BMJ. - 2056-5933. ; 7:3
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Objectives To compare risks for COVID-19-related outcomes in inflammatory joint diseases (IJDs) and across disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) during the first two waves of the pandemic and to assess effects of the pandemic on rheumatology care provision. Methods Through nationwide multiregister linkages and cohort study design, we defined IJD and DMARD use annually in 2015-2020. We assessed absolute and relative risks of hospitalisation or death listing COVID-19. We also assessed the incidence of IJD and among individuals with IJD, rheumatologist visits, DMARD use and incidence of selected comorbidities. Results Based on 115 317 patients with IJD in 2020, crude risks of hospitalisation and death listing COVID-19 (0.94% and 0.33% across both waves, respectively) were similar during both waves (adjusted HR versus the general population 1.33, 95% CI 1.23 to 1.43, for hospitalisation listing COVID-19; 1.23, 95% CI 1.08 to 1.40 for death listing COVID-19). Overall, biological disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (bDMARDs)/targeted synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (tsDMARDs) did not increase risks of COVID-19 related hospitalisation (with the exception of a potential signal for JAK inhibitors) or death. During the pandemic, decreases were observed for IJD incidence (-7%), visits to rheumatology units (-16%), DMARD dispensations (+6.5% for bDMARD/tsDMARDs and -8.5% for conventional synthetic DMARDs compared with previous years) and for new comorbid conditions, but several of these changes were part of underlying secular trends. Conclusions Patients with IJD are at increased risk of serious COVID-19 outcomes, which may partially be explained by medical conditions other than IJD per se. The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has exerted measurable effects on aspects of rheumatology care provision demonstrated, the future impact of which will need to be assessed.
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| 12. |
- Bower, Hannah, et al.
(author)
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Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on morbidity and mortality in patients with inflammatory joint diseases and in the general population : a nationwide Swedish cohort study
- 2021
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In: Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases. - : BMJ Publishing Group Ltd. - 0003-4967 .- 1468-2060. ; 80:8, s. 1086-1093
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Objectives: To estimate absolute and relative risks for all-cause mortality and for severe COVID-19 in inflammatory joint diseases (IJDs) and with antirheumatic therapies.Methods: Through Swedish nationwide multiregister linkages, we selected all adult patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA, n=53 455 in March 2020), other IJDs (here: spondyloarthropathies, psoriatic arthritis and juvenile idiopathic arthritis, n=57 112), their antirheumatic drug use, and individually matched population referents. We compared annual all-cause mortality March-September 2015 through 2020 within and across cohorts, and assessed absolute and relative risks for hospitalisation, admission to intensive care and death due to COVID-19 March-September 2020, using Cox regression.Results: During March-September 2020, the absolute all-cause mortality in RA and in other IJDs was higher than 2015-2019, but relative risks versus the general population (around 2 and 1.5) remained similar during 2020 compared with 2015-2019. Among patients with IJD, the risks of hospitalisation (0.5% vs 0.3% in their population referents), admission to intensive care (0.04% vs 0.03%) and death (0.10% vs 0.07%) due to COVID-19 were low. Antirheumatic drugs were not associated with increased risk of serious COVID-19 outcomes, although for certain drugs, precision was limited.Conclusions: Risks of severe COVID-19-related outcomes were increased among patients with IJDs, but risk increases were also seen for non-COVID-19 morbidity. Overall absolute and excess risks are low and the level of risk increases are largely proportionate to those in the general population, and explained by comorbidities. With possible exceptions, antirheumatic drugs do not have a major impact on these risks.
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| 13. |
- Bäcklund, Rebecka, et al.
(author)
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Adherence to dietary guidelines, and the risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis-results from a nested case-control study
- 2024
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In: Rheumatology (Oxford, England). - 1462-0332. ; 63:2, s. 407-413
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- OBJECTIVES: To examine the relation between adherence to dietary guidelines and the risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis (RA).METHODS: Participants in the Malmö Diet and Cancer study (MDCS) cohort diagnosed with RA were identified through register linkage and validated in a structured review. Four controls per case were selected, matched for sex, year of birth, and year of inclusion in the MDCS. Diet was assessed at baseline (1991-1996) using a validated diet history method. A Diet Quality Index (DQI) based on adherence to the Swedish dietary guidelines including intakes of fibre, vegetables and fruits, fish and shellfish, saturated fat, polyunsaturated fat, and sucrose, was used. The associations between the DQI and its components and the risk of RA were assessed using conditional logistic regression analysis, adjusting for total energy intake, smoking, leisure time physical activity and alcohol consumption.RESULTS: We identified 172 validated cases of incident RA in the cohort. Overall adherence to the dietary guidelines was not associated with the risk of RA. Adherence to recommended fibre intake was associated with decreased risk of RA in crude and multivariable-adjusted analyses, with odds ratios (ORs) 0.60 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.39-0.93), and 0.51 (95% CI 0.29-0.90), respectively, compared with subjects with non-adherence.CONCLUSIONS: Reaching the recommended intake level of dietary fibre, but not overall diet quality, was independently associated with decreased risk of RA. Further studies are needed to assess the role of different food sources of dietary fibre in relation to risk of RA and the underlying mechanisms.
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| 14. |
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| 15. |
- Bäcklund, Rebecka Teresia, et al.
(author)
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Diet and the risk of rheumatoid arthritis- a systematic literature review
- 2023
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In: Seminars in Arthritis and Rheumatism. - : Elsevier BV. - 0049-0172. ; 58
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Research review (peer-reviewed)abstract
- ObjectivesDiet has received attention as a factor possibly contributing to the development of Rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Several dietary exposures have been examined in various populations using different diet assessment methods. The aim of this study was to systematically assess the literature on the relation between dietary patterns, different food and food groups, macronutrients, non-alcoholic beverages and the risk of developing RA.MethodsA systematic literature search was performed to identify relevant articles on diet and the risk of developing RA. The selection of articles and overall quality assessment of all included studies were performed independently by two examiners. Overall study quality was evaluated using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scales. We excluded all articles where the temporal relation between dietary data collection and time of RA diagnosis was not presented. Main findings were summarized for cohort-based studies and case-control studies separately.ResultsA total of 984 articles were screened. Nineteen relevant cohort-based studies, and eight case-control studies, were included in our review. Two articles were excluded due to lacking data on the relation between RA diagnosis and time of dietary data collection and one due to incorrect outcome. Identified studies suggested protective effects of fish, vegetables and Mediterranean-style diets, although study results and methods were heterogenous. An issue in some case-control studies was that unvalidated diet assessment methods were used. A vast majority of the cohort-based studies used validated diet assessment methods, although the definitions of exposures studied varied.ConclusionThere is lack of consistent evidence on the role of diet in the development of RA, partly due to differences in study quality and methodology Limited evidence suggests that some healthy eating habits may reduce the risk of RA. More high-quality studies in the area are needed for a deeper understanding of the effect of diet, and to enable strategies to prevent RA.
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| 16. |
- Cagnotto, Giovanni, et al.
(author)
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Abatacept in rheumatoid arthritis: survival on drug, clinical outcomes, and their predictors-data from a large national quality register
- 2020
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In: Arthritis Research & Therapy. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 1478-6362 .- 1478-6354. ; 22:1
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background There are limited data regarding efficacy of abatacept treatment for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) outside clinical trials. Quality registers have been useful for observational studies on tumor necrosis factor inhibition in clinical practice. The aim of this study was to investigate clinical efficacy and tolerability of abatacept in RA, using a national register. Methods RA patients that started abatacept between 2006 and 2017 and were included in the Swedish Rheumatology Quality register (N = 2716) were investigated. Survival on drug was estimated using Kaplan-Meier analysis. The European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) good response and Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ) response (improvement of >= 0.3) rates (LUNDEX corrected for drug survival) at 6 and at 12 months were assessed. Predictors of discontinuation were investigated by Cox regression analyses, and predictors of clinical response by logistic regression. Significance-based backward stepwise selection of variables was used for the final multivariate models. Results There was a significant difference in drug survival by previous biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (bDMARD) exposure (p < 0.001), with longer survival in bionaive patients. Men (hazard ratio (HR) 0.86, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.74-0.98) and methotrexate users (HR 0.85, 95% CI 0.76-0.95) were less likely to discontinue abatacept, whereas a high pain score predicted discontinuation (HR 1.14 per standard deviation, 95% CI 1.07-1.20). The absence of previous bDMARD exposure, male sex, and a low HAQ score were independently associated with LUNDEX-corrected EULAR good response. The absence of previous bDMARD exposure also predicted LUNDEX-corrected HAQ response. Conclusions In this population-based study of RA, bDMARD naive patients and male patients were more likely to remain on abatacept with a major clinical response.
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| 17. |
- Cagnotto, Giovanni, et al.
(author)
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Male Sex Predicts a Favorable Outcome in Early ACPA-Negative Rheumatoid Arthritis: Data From an Observational Study
- 2022
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In: The Journal of rheumatology. - : The Journal of Rheumatology. - 0315-162X .- 1499-2752. ; 49:9, s. 990-997
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- OBJECTIVE: The aim of the present study was to investigate whether the relationship between sex and clinical outcomes in early rheumatoid arthritis (RA) varies by autoantibody status. METHODS: Two inception cohorts of consecutive patients with early RA (ie, symptom duration ≤ 12 months) in the southern region of Sweden were investigated. Patients were stratified by anticitrullinated peptide antibody (ACPA) status. The primary outcome was remission (Disease Activity Score in 28 joints [DAS28] < 2.6) at 12 months. Secondary outcomes were remission at 6 months and European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology good response at 6 and 12 months compared to baseline. In logistic regression models, which were adjusted for age, DAS28 values, and Health Assessment Questionnaire values at baseline, the relationship between sex and clinical outcomes, stratified by ACPA status, was investigated. RESULTS: In total, 426 patients with early RA were included: 160 patients were ACPA negative and 266 patients were ACPA positive. At 12 months, 27.1% (38/140) of females and 24.1% (13/54) of males with ACPA-positive RA achieved DAS28 remission. In ACPA-negative RA, 16.0% (13/81) of females and 48.6% (18/37) of males achieved DAS28 remission at 12 months. Males had higher odds of reaching remission at 12 months in the ACPA-negative patient group (pooled adjusted odds ratio [OR] 4.79, 95% CI 1.97-11.6), but not in the ACPA-positive group (pooled adjusted OR 1.06, 95% CI 0.49-2.30). CONCLUSION: Male sex was associated with better clinical outcomes in ACPA-negative early RA, but not in ACPA-positive early RA. The poor outcomes in females with early seronegative RA suggest that this represents a difficult-to-treat patient group. Copyright © 2022 by the Journal of Rheumatology.
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| 18. |
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| 19. |
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| 20. |
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| 21. |
- Delcoigne, Benedicte, et al.
(author)
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Short-term, intermediate-term and long-term risks of acute coronary syndrome in cohorts of patients with RA starting biologic DMARDs : Results from four Nordic countries
- 2022
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In: Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases. - : BMJ Publishing Group Ltd. - 0003-4967 .- 1468-2060. ; 81:6, s. 789-797
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Objectives: To compare the 1-year, 2-year and 5-year incidences of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) starting any of the biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (bDMARDs) currently available in clinical practice and to anchor these results with a general population comparator.Methods: Observational cohort study, with patients from Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden starting a bDMARD during 2008-2017. Time to first ACS was identified through register linkages. We calculated the 1-year, 2-year and 5-year incidence rates (IR) (on drug and ever since treatment start) and used Cox regression (HRs) to compare ACS incidences across treatments taking ACS risk factors into account. Analyses were further performed separately in subgroups defined by age, number of previous bDMARDs and history of cardiovascular disease. We also compared ACS incidences to an individually matched general population cohort.Results: 24 083 patients (75% women, mean age 56 years) contributing 40 850 treatment courses were included. During the maximum (5 years) follow-up (141 257 person-years (pyrs)), 780 ACS events occurred (crude IR 5.5 per 1000 pyrs). Overall, the incidence of ACS in RA was 80% higher than that in the general population. For all bDMARDs and follow-up definitions, HRs were close to 1 (etanercept as reference) with the exception of the 5-year risk window, where signals for abatacept, infliximab and rituximab were noted.Conclusion: The rate of ACS among patients with RA initiating bDMARDs remains elevated compared with the general population. As used in routine care, the short-term, intermediate-term and longer-term risks of ACS vary little across individual bDMARDs.
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| 22. |
- Eberhard, Anna, et al.
(author)
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Joint tenderness at 3 months follow-up better predicts long-term pain than baseline characteristics in early rheumatoid arthritis patients
- 2024
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In: Rheumatology. - 1462-0324. ; 63:3, s. 734-741
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Objective To investigate pain course over time and to identify baseline and 3-month predictors of unacceptable pain with or without low inflammation in early RA. Methods A cohort of 275 patients with early RA, recruited in 2012-2016, was investigated and followed for 2 years. Pain was assessed using a visual analogue scale (VAS; 0-100 mm). Unacceptable pain was defined as VAS pain >40, and low inflammation as CRP Results After 2 years, 32% of patients reported unacceptable pain. Among those, 81% had low inflammation. Unacceptable pain, and unacceptable pain with low inflammation, at 1 and 2 years was significantly associated with several factors at 3 months, but not at baseline. Three-month predictors of these pain states at 1 and 2 years were higher scores for pain, patient global assessment, and the health assessment questionnaire, and more extensive joint tenderness compared with the number of swollen joints. No significant associations were found for objective inflammatory measures. Conclusion A substantial proportion of patients had unacceptable pain with low inflammation after 2 years. Three months after diagnosis seems to be a good time-point for assessing the risk of long-term pain. The associations between patient reported outcomes and pain, and the lack of association with objective inflammatory measures, supports the uncoupling between pain and inflammation in RA. Having many tender joints, but more limited synovitis, may be predictive of long-term pain despite low inflammation in early RA.
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| 23. |
- Eberhard, Anna, et al.
(author)
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Predictors of unacceptable pain with and without low inflammation over 5years in early rheumatoid arthritis-an inception cohort study
- 2021
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In: Arthritis Research & Therapy. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 1478-6354 .- 1478-6362. ; 23:1
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- ObjectivesPain is a major symptom in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). In early RA, pain is usually due to synovitis, but can also persist despite effective anti-inflammatory treatment. The objective of this study was to investigate the pain course over time and predictors of unacceptable pain and unacceptable pain with low inflammation, in patients with early RA.MethodsAn inception cohort of 232 patients with early RA, recruited in 1995-2005, was followed in a structured programme for 5years. Pain was assessed using a visual analogue scale (VAS; 0-100). Unacceptable pain was defined as VAS pain >40 based on the patient acceptable symptom state (PASS) and low inflammation as CRP <10mg/l. Baseline predictors of unacceptable pain were evaluated using logistic regression analysis.ResultsPain improved significantly during the first 6months, but then remained basically unchanged. Thirty-four per cent of the patients had unacceptable pain 5years after inclusion. Baseline predictors of unacceptable pain after 5years were lower swollen joint counts [odds ratio (OR) 0.71 per standard deviation (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.51-0.99)] and higher VAS for pain and global assessment of disease activity. Unacceptable pain with low inflammation after 5years was negatively associated with anti-CCP antibodies [OR 0.50 (95% CI 0.22-0.98)].ConclusionOver one third of the patients had unacceptable pain 5years after inclusion. Lower swollen joint count was associated with unacceptable pain at 5years. The results may be explained by the positive effects of treatment on pain related to inflammation. Non-inflammatory long-lasting pain appears to be a greater problem in anti-CCP-negative patients.
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| 24. |
- Eberhard, Anna, et al.
(author)
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Radiographic damage in early rheumatoid arthritis is associated with increased disability but not with pain-a 5-year follow-up study
- 2023
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In: Arthritis Research & Therapy. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 1478-6354 .- 1478-6362. ; 25:1
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- ObjectivesTo evaluate how radiographic damage, overall and measured as joint space narrowing score (JSNS) and erosion score (ES), as well as other clinical and laboratory measures, relate to disability and pain in early rheumatoid arthritis (RA).MethodsAn inception cohort of 233 patients with early RA, recruited in 1995-2005, was followed for 5 years. Disability was assessed with the Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ), and pain with a visual analogue scale (VAS; 0-100 mm). Radiographs of hands and feet were evaluated using the Sharp-van der Heijde score (SHS), including JSNS and ES. The relation for radiographic scores and other clinical parameters with pain and HAQ were evaluated cross-sectionally by multivariate linear regression analysis and over time using generalized estimating equations.ResultsES was significantly associated with HAQ cross-sectionally at inclusion, after 2 and after 5 years, and over time. Associations for HAQ with SHS and JSNS were weaker and less consistent compared with those for ES. There was no association between radiographic scores and pain at any visit. Both HAQ and pain were associated with parameters of disease activity. The strongest cross-sectional associations were found for the number of tender joints (adjusted p<0.001 at all visits).ConclusionJoint damage was associated with disability already in early RA. Erosions of hands and feet appear to have a greater influence on disability compared with joint space narrowing early in the disease. Pain was associated with other factors than joint destruction in early RA, in particular joint tenderness-suggesting an impact of pain sensitization.
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| 25. |
- Elfishawi, Mohanad, et al.
(author)
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Lower Frequency of Comorbidities Prior to Onset of Giant Cell Arteritis : A Population-Based Study
- 2023
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In: The Journal of rheumatology. - : The Journal of Rheumatology. - 0315-162X .- 1499-2752. ; 50:4, s. 526-531
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- OBJECTIVE: To assess the frequency of comorbidities and metabolic risk factors at and prior to giant cell arteritis (GCA) diagnosis. METHODS: This is a retrospective case control study of patients with incident GCA between January 1, 2000, and December 31, 2019, in Olmsted County, Minnesota. Two age- and sex-matched controls were identified, and each assigned an index date corresponding to an incidence date of GCA. Medical records were manually abstracted for comorbidities and laboratory data at incidence date, 5 years, and 10 years prior to incidence date. Twenty-five chronic conditions using International Classification of Diseases, 9th revision, diagnosis codes were also studied at incidence date and 5 years prior to incidence date. RESULTS: One hundred and twenty-nine patients with GCA (74% female) and 253 controls were identified. At incidence date, the prevalence of diabetes mellitus (DM) was lower among patients with GCA (5% vs 17%; P = 0.001). At 5 years prior to incidence date, patients were less likely to have DM (2% vs 13%; P < 0.001) and hypertension (27% vs 45%; P = 0.002) and had a lower mean number (SD) of comorbidities (0.7 [1.0] vs 1.3 [1.4]; P < 0.001) compared to controls. Moreover, patients had significantly lower median fasting blood glucose (FBG; 96 mg/dL vs 104 mg/dL; P < 0.001) and BMI (25.8 vs 27.7; P = 0.02) compared to controls. Multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed negative associations for FBG with GCA at 5 and 10 years prior to diagnosis/index date. CONCLUSION: DM prevalence and median FBG and BMI were lower in patients with GCA up to 5 years prior to diagnosis, suggesting that metabolic factors influence the risk of GCA.
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| 26. |
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| 27. |
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| 28. |
- Exarchou, Sofia, et al.
(author)
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Lifestyle Factors and Disease Activity Over Time in Early Axial Spondyloarthritis: The SPondyloArthritis Caught Early (SPACE) Cohort
- 2022
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In: Journal of Rheumatology. - : The Journal of Rheumatology. - 0315-162X .- 1499-2752. ; 49:4, s. 365-372
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Objective. Our aim was to study the importance of baseline BMI, smoking, and alcohol consumption (AC) for disease activity (DA) over 1 year in early axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA), stratified by sex. Methods. In the SPondyloArthritis Caught Early cohort ( patients with chronic back pain onset at age < 45 yrs, with pain for >= 3 months and >= 2 yrs), the Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Score (ASDAS) was recorded at inclusion, 3, and 12 months. All patients included in the analysis had axSpA based on a high physician's level of confidence at baseline. Differences in ASDAS over 1 year by BMI (normal < 25 kg/m(2), overweight 25-29.9 kg/m(2), and obese >= 30 kg/m(2)), smoking history (never/previous/current), and AC (none, 0.1-2 units/week, 3-5 units/week, and >= 6 units/week) at baseline were estimated using mixed linear regression models. Results. There were 344 subjects (mean age of 30.3 yrs; 49.4% men). In women, obesity was associated with 0.60 (95% CI 0.28-0.91) higher ASDAS compared to normal BMI. In both sexes, AC tended to be associated with lower DA over 1 year, with a significant association only in women with the highest AC (mean difference of -0.55, 95% CI -1.05 to -0.04). Smoking was associated with higher ASDAS over 1 year compared to never smoking in both sexes, although the difference reached statistical significance only in female former smokers. Results were similar in multivariable analysis, adjusted for all lifestyle factors and other confounders. Conclusion. In early axSpA, BMI and smoking are associated with higher DA over 1 year, and AC with lower DA. The magnitude of the modest associations may differ between men and women.
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| 29. |
- Exarchou, Sofia, et al.
(author)
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Mortality in ankylosing spondylitis: results from a nationwide population-based study
- 2016
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In: Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases. - : BMJ. - 0003-4967 .- 1468-2060. ; 75:8, s. 1466-1472
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Objectives Information on mortality in ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is scarce. Our study therefore aimed to assess: (1) mortality in AS versus the general population, and (2) predictors of death in the AS population. Methods Nationwide cohorts of patients with AS diagnosed at rheumatology or internal medicine outpatient clinics (n=8600) and age-matched, sex-matched and county-matched general population comparators (n=40 460) were identified from the National Patient Register and the census register, respectively. The follow-up period began on 1 January 2006 or at the first date of registered diagnosis thereafter and extended until death, emigration or 31 December 2012, whichever occurred first. Socioeconomic variables, AS-related clinical manifestations, joint surgery, comorbidities and medication were identified from other national registers. Cox regression models were used to determine mortality and predictors for death in the AS cohort. Results There were 496 deaths in the AS cohort and 1533 deaths in the control cohort resulting in an age-adjusted and sex-adjusted HR of 1.60 (95% CI 1.44 to 1.77), with increased mortality for men (age-adjusted HR=1.53, 95% CI 1.36 to 1.72) and women (ageadjusted HR=1.83, 95% CI 1.50 to 2.22). Within the AS cohort, statistically significant predictors for death were a lower level of education, general comorbidities (diabetes, infections, cardiovascular, pulmonary and malignant diseases) and previous hip replacement surgery. Conclusions Mortality was increased for male and female patients with AS. Predictors of death within the AS cohort included socioeconomic status, general comorbidities and hip replacement surgery.
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| 30. |
- Exarchou, Sofia, et al.
(author)
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Mortality in patients with psoriatic arthritis in Sweden: a nationwide, population-based cohort study
- 2024
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In: ANNALS OF THE RHEUMATIC DISEASES. - 0003-4967 .- 1468-2060. ; 83:4, s. 446-456
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- ObjectivesTo compare all-cause mortality and causes of death between patients with psoriatic arthritis (PsA) and the general population in Sweden.MethodsAdults with at least one main PsA diagnosis (International Classification of Diseases-10: L40.5/M07.0-M07.3) from outpatient rheumatology/internal medicine departments 2001-2017 were identified from the National Patient Register. Each case was matched to five population comparator-subjects on sex/county/age at the case's first arthritis diagnosis. Follow-up ran from 1 January 2007, or from first PsA diagnosis thereafter, until death, emigration or 31 December 2018. Mortality was assessed overall, and stratified by sex and duration since diagnosis (diagnosis before/after 1 January 2007), using matched Cox proportional hazard regression (excluding/including adjustments for comorbidity) or Breslow test, as appropriate. Incidence rate ratios (IRR) of death, overall and stratified by sex/duration since diagnosis/age, as well as causes of death in PsA cases and comparator-subjects were also described.ResultsAll-cause mortality was elevated in PsA (HR: 1.11 (95% CI: 1.07 to 1.16); IRR: 1.18 (95% CI: 1.13 to 1.22)), mainly driven by increased risks in women (HR: 1.23 (95% CI: 1.16 to 1.30)) and cases with longer time since diagnosis (HR: 1.18 (95% CI: 1.12 to 1.25)). IRR of death were significantly increased for all ages except below 40 years, with the numerically highest point-estimates for ages 40-59 years. When adjusted for comorbidity, however, the elevated mortality risk in PsA disappeared. Causes of death were similar among PsA cases/comparator-subjects, with cardiovascular disease and malignancy as the leading causes.ConclusionsMortality risk in PsA in Sweden was about 10% higher than in the general population, driven by excess comorbidity and with increased risks mainly in women and patients with longer disease duration.
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| 31. |
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| 32. |
- Exarchou, Sofia, et al.
(author)
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The National Prevalence of Clinically Diagnosed Psoriatic Arthritis in Sweden in 2017
- 2023
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In: Journal of Rheumatology. - : The Journal of Rheumatology. - 0315-162X .- 1499-2752. ; 50:6, s. 781-788
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Objective. Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) prevalence estimates vary across studies; studies based on national data are few. We aimed to estimate the prevalence of clinically diagnosed PsA in Sweden in 2017, overall and stratified by sex, age, education, and geography, and to quantify disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) use among those in contact with specialized rheumatology care between 2015 and 2017.Methods. Individuals who were 18 to 79 years of age, alive and residing in Sweden on December 31, 2017, and had a prior PsA diagnosis were identified from the National Patient Register (NPR) and/or the Swedish Rheumatology Quality Register (SRQ). PsA prevalence was estimated according to a base case (BC) defini-tion (ie, & GE; 1 main PsA International Classification of Diseases code from rheumatology or internal medicine departments in the NPR or a PsA diagnosis in the SRQ), according to 4 sensitivity analysis definitions, and for those seen in specialized rheumatology care between 2015 and 2017. In the latter group, DMARD use during 2017 was also assessed. Data for stratifications were retrieved from national registers.Results. The crude national prevalence of PsA for adults, aged 18 to 79 years, was estimated at 0.39%, according to the BC definition; 0.34% after accounting for diagnostic misclassification; and 0.32% to 0.50% across all sensitivity analyses. The prevalence was lower in males and in those with a higher level of education. The prevalence for those seen in specialized rheumatology care between 2015 and 2017 was estimated at 0.24%. During 2017, 32% of patients in this population received biologic or targeted synthetic DMARDs, and 41% received conventional synthetic DMARDs only.Conclusion. The prevalence of clinically diagnosed PsA in adults, aged 18 to 79 years, in Sweden in 2017 was around 0.35%. Among PsA cases in recent contact with specialized rheumatology care, almost three-fourths received DMARD therapy in 2017.
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| 33. |
- Exarchou, Sofia, et al.
(author)
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The prevalence of clinically diagnosed ankylosing spondylitis and its clinical manifestations: a nationwide register study
- 2015
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In: Arthritis Research & Therapy. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 1478-6354 .- 1478-6362. ; 17
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Introduction: Prevalence estimates of ankylosing spondylitis vary considerably, and there are few nationwide estimates. The present study aimed to describe the national prevalence of clinically diagnosed ankylosing spondylitis in Sweden, stratified according to age, sex, geographical, and socio-economic factors, and according to subgroups with ankylosing spondylitis-related clinical manifestations and pharmacological treatment. Methods: All individuals diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis according to the World Health Organization International Classification of Disease codes, between 1967 and 2009, were identified from the National Patient Register. Data regarding disease manifestations, patient demographics, level of education, pharmacological treatment, and geographical region were retrieved from the National Patient Register and other national registers. Results: A total of 11,030 cases with an ankylosing spondylitis diagnosis (alive, living in Sweden, and 16 to 64 years old in December 2009) were identified in the National Patient Register, giving a point prevalence of 0.18% in 2009. The prevalence was higher in northern Sweden, and lower in those with a higher level of education. Men had a higher prevalence of ankylosing spondylitis (0.23% versus 0.14%, P < 0.001), a higher frequency of anterior uveitis (25.5% versus 20.0%, P < 0.001) and were more likely to receive tumor necrosis factor inhibitors than women (15.6% versus 11.8% in 2009, P < 0.001). Women were more likely than men to have peripheral arthritis (21.7% versus 15.3%, P < 0.001), psoriasis (8.0% versus 6.9%, P = 0.03), and treatment with oral corticosteroids (14.0% versus 10.4% in 2009, P < 0.001). Conclusion: This nationwide, register-based study demonstrated a prevalence of clinically diagnosed ankylosing spondylitis of 0.18%. It revealed phenotypical and treatment differences between the sexes, as well as geographical and socio-economic differences in disease prevalence.
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| 34. |
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| 35. |
- Fatima, Tahzeeb, et al.
(author)
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The absolute risk of gout by clusters of gout-associated comorbidities and lifestyle factors-30 years follow-up of the Malmo Preventive Project
- 2020
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In: Arthritis Research & Therapy. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 1478-6354 .- 1478-6362. ; 22:1
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background Gout is predicted by a number of comorbidities and lifestyle factors. We aimed to identify discrete phenotype clusters of these factors in a Swedish population-based health survey. In these clusters, we calculated and compared the incidence and relative risk of gout. Methods Cluster analyses were performed to group variables with close proximity and to obtain homogenous clusters of individuals (n = 22,057) in the Malmo Preventive Project (MPP) cohort. Variables clustered included obesity, kidney dysfunction, diabetes mellitus (DM), hypertension, cardiovascular disease (CVD), dyslipidemia, pulmonary dysfunction (PD), smoking, and the use of diuretics. Incidence rates and hazard ratios (HRs) for gout, adjusted for age and sex, were computed for each cluster. Results Five clusters (C1-C5) were identified. Cluster C1 (n = 16,063) was characterized by few comorbidities. All participants in C2 (n = 750) had kidney dysfunction (100%), and none had CVD. In C3 (n = 528), 100% had CVD and most participants were smokers (74%). C4 (n = 3673) had the greatest fractions of obesity (34%) and dyslipidemia (74%). In C5 (n = 1043), proportions with DM (51%), hypertension (54%), and diuretics (52%) were highest. C1 was by far the most common in the population (73%), followed by C4 (17%). These two pathways included 86% of incident gout cases. The four smaller clusters (C2-C5) had higher incidence rates and a 2- to 3-fold increased risk for incident gout. Conclusions Five distinct clusters based on gout-related comorbidities and lifestyle factors were identified. Most incident gout cases occurred in the cluster of few comorbidities, and the four comorbidity pathways had overall a modest influence on the incidence of gout.
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| 36. |
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| 37. |
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| 38. |
- Fors, Charlotta, et al.
(author)
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Validity of polymyalgia rheumatica diagnoses and classification criteria in primary health care
- 2019
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In: Rheumatology Advances in Practice. - : Oxford University Press (OUP). - 2514-1775. ; 3:2
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Objectives: PMR is an inflammatory disease with prominent morning stiffness and muscular tenderness, usually diagnosed in primary health care (PHC). The objectives were to examine the validity of PMR diagnoses in PHC and to validate the use of classification criteria for PMR.Methods: Medical records for patients with a registered PMR diagnosis at two PHC facilities were reviewed. Patients were classified according to several sets of criteria. An independent review, with assessment of the PMR diagnosis, was performed by an experienced rheumatologist.Results: Of 188 patients, the PMR diagnosis was in agreement with the independent review in 60% overall, in 84% of those fulfilling a modified version of the ACR/EULAR classification criteria and in 52% of those who did not. The corresponding proportions for the Bird criteria were 66 and 31%, and for the Healey criteria 74 and 42%. In 74% of the medical records, documentation on morning stiffness was missing. Rheumatoid factor was tested in 22% and anti-CCP antibodies in 15%.Conclusion: In this study of patients with PMR diagnosed in PHC, the diagnosis was supported by the independent review in 60% of the patients. Documentation on morning stiffness and testing for autoantibodies were limited. A modified version of the ACR/EULAR criteria can be used to identify patients with a valid PMR diagnosis in retrospective surveys but does not capture all PMR patients. The modified ACR/EULAR criteria may be more stringent than some of the older criteria sets.
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| 39. |
- Frisell, Thomas, et al.
(author)
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Comparative effectiveness of abatacept, rituximab, tocilizumab and TNFi biologics in RA : Results from the nationwide Swedish register
- 2019
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In: Rheumatology (United Kingdom). - : Oxford University Press (OUP). - 1462-0324 .- 1462-0332. ; 58:8, s. 1367-1377
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Objectives: Current guidelines rank abatacept, rituximab, tocilizumab and TNF-inhibitors (TNFi) as having equal effectiveness for the treatment of RA, at least as second line therapies. These recommendations are mainly based on meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials, with few direct drug-drug comparisons. Our objective was to compare the real-world absolute and relative effectiveness among RA patients starting any of the available biologic DMARDs (bDMARDs). Methods: We used the Swedish Rheumatology Register to identify patients with RA initiating TNFi, rituximab, abatacept or tocilizumab in 2010-2016 as first bDMARD (n = 9333), or after switch from TNFi as first bDMARD (n = 3941). National Swedish registers provided additional covariates and censoring events. Effectiveness was assessed 3 and 12 months after treatment start, as the proportion remaining on therapy and with EULAR Good Response, HAQ improvement >0.2, zero swollen/tender joints and CDAI remission. Adjusted differences were estimated with multivariable linear regression. Results: Patients starting non-TNFi (vs TNFi) as first bDMARD had a higher proportion remaining on drug and reaching most response outcomes as first bDMARD (1-year EULAR Good Response/HAQ improvement: TNFi 24.9/25.4%, rituximab 28.6/37.2%, abatacept 31.9/33.7%, tocilizumab 50.9/43.1%). After switch from a first TNFi, rituximab and tocilizumab, but not abatacept, were associated with significantly better response measures than TNFi (1-year EULAR Good Response/HAQ improvement: TNFi 11.6/16.1%, rituximab 24.8/33.2%, abatacept 13.1/17.5%, tocilizumab 34.1/29.4%). Differences remained significant after adjusting for potential confounders. Conclusion: Treatment outcomes among RA patients treated in Swedish clinical practice are in line with a superior effectiveness of non-TNFi bDMARDs, in particular tocilizumab and rituximab, compared with TNFi.
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| 40. |
- Furebring, Christina, et al.
(author)
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Antibody-mediated neutralization of cytomegalovirus: modulation of efficacy induced through the IgG constant region.
- 2002
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In: Molecular Immunology. - 1872-9142. ; 38:11, s. 833-840
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Antibodies can neutralize the infectious properties of human cytomegalovirus (CMV). In vivo, the major neutralization determinants are located on glycoprotein B (gB). Recombinant human antibodies, that carry different constant regions (IgG1, IgG3 and the synthetic variant IgG3mA) against two of these epitopes were investigated for their ability to recruit the complement cascade for destruction of the virus. It was shown that all variants of an antibody against the antigenic domain (AD)-2 epitope displayed a similar neutralization activity despite the fact that improved C1q binding was observed for IgG3 and IgG3mA over the IgG1 variant. In contrast, an antibody against the AD-1 epitope carrying the normal IgG3 constant region, was less efficient than its IgG1 counterpart in neutralizing the virus in the absence of complement. However, it restored its activity in the presence of complement to the level of the naturally occurring IgG1 version. The same antibody was substantially more potent in neutralizing the virus in the presence of complement if it carried the IgG3mA constant region. This demonstrates the importance of the constant domain for the biological activity of AD-1 specific antibodies, a factor that should be taken into account when using antibody-based therapeutics or when inducing antibodies by vaccination.
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| 41. |
- Gabriel, SE, et al.
(author)
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Survival in rheumatoid arthritis - A population-based analysis of trends over 40 years
- 2003
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In: Arthritis and Rheumatism. - : Wiley. - 1529-0131 .- 0004-3591. ; 48:1, s. 54-58
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Objective. To evaluate trends in and risk factors for mortality among patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) over a 40-year period. Methods. A population-based inception cohort was assembled from among all Rochester, Minnesota residents ages greater than or equal to18 years who were first diagnosed with RA (fulfilling the 1987 American College of Rheumatology criteria for RA) between January 1, 1 955 and December 31, 1994. Patients were followed up longitudinally through their entire medical records (including all inpatient and outpatient care by any provider) until death or migration from the county. Survival was described using the Kaplan-Meier method. Observed and expected survival were compared using the log-rank test, and standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) with expected survival were based on the sex and age of the study population and death rates from the Minnesota life tables. Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate the influence of extraarticular manifestations and comorbidities, controlling for age, sex, body mass index (BMI), smoking, and rheumatoid factor positivity. Results. Survival in this RA cohort was significantly lower than that expected in the population (P < 0.001) over the entire time period. Patients with RA were at significantly higher risk of death, with an SMR of 1.27 (95% confidence interval 1.13-1.41). Excess mortality among women was more pronounced than among men, with SMRs of 1.41 and 1.08, respectively. Presence of A extraarticular manifestation was the strongest predictor of mortality after adjusting for age, sex, BMI, smoking, and rheumatoid factor positivity. Conclusion. Survival in RA patients is significantly lower than expected. The strongest predictors of survival appear to be those related to RA disease complications, specifically, extraarticular manifestations of the disease and comorbidities. More attention should be paid to mortality as an outcome measure in RA.
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| 42. |
- Geborek, Pierre, et al.
(author)
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Tumour necrosis factor blockers do not increase overall tumour risk in patients with rheumatoid arthritis, but may be associated with an increased risk of lymphomas
- 2005
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In: Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases. - : BMJ. - 1468-2060 .- 0003-4967. ; 64:5, s. 699-703
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Objective: To determine whether TNF blockers increase tumour risk in patients with RA. Material and methods: The South Swedish Arthritis Treatment Group register (SSATG) comprises over 90% of anti-TNF treated patients with RA in the area. 757 patients treated with etanercept or infliximab included between 1 February 1999 and 31 December 2002 were identified. 800 patients with conventional antirheumatic treatment in a community based cohort served as a comparison cohort. Tumours and deaths were identified in the cancer registry and population census registers. Patients were followed up from initiation of anti-TNF treatment or 1 July 1997 for the comparison group, until death or 31 December 2002. Results: In the anti-TNF group, 16 tumours ( 5 lymphomas) were identified in 1603 person-years at risk, and in the comparison group 69 tumours ( 2 lymphomas) in 3948 person-years. Standardised incidence ratios (SIRs) for total tumour relative risk for the anti-TNF group and the comparison group were 1.1 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.6 to 1.8) and 1.4 ( 95% CI 1.1 to 1.8), respectively. The lymphoma relative risk (RR) was 11.5 ( 95% CI 3.7 to 26.9) and 1.3 ( 95% CI 0.2 to 4.5), respectively The total tumour RR excluding lymphoma was 0.79 ( 95% CI 0.4 to 1.42) and 1.39 ( 95% CI 1.08 to 1.76), respectively. Proportional hazard analysis for lymphomas yielded RR 4.9 ( 95% CI 0.9 to 26.2) in anti-TNF treated versus untreated patients. Conclusion: Community based patients with RA treated conventionally had an increased overall tumour risk compared with the background population. A possible additional increased risk for lymphoma associated with TNF blockers was based on few cases and needs confirmation.
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| 43. |
- Gisslander, Karl, et al.
(author)
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Can active sun exposure decrease the risk of giant cell arteritis and polymyalgia rheumatica in women?
- 2023
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In: Rheumatology Advances in Practice. - 2514-1775. ; 7:3
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- ObjectivesTo study if active sun exposure among women affects the risk of developing GCA or PMR in a prospective cohort study with restricted latitudinal variability.MethodsWe linked the response to questions relating to sun exposure from the Melanoma Inquiry in Southern Sweden (MISS) prospective cohort study in women to the risk of developing GCA or PMR. Healthcare data were gathered from the Skåne Healthcare Register (SHR), covering all public healthcare consultations. The direct effect of active sun exposure on the risk of developing GCA or PMR was assessed using Cox proportional hazards models adjusted for covariates based on a directed acyclic graph.ResultsA total of 14 574 women were included in the study; 601 women were diagnosed with GCA or PMR (144 and 457, respectively) during the follow-up time. Women with moderate or high sun exposure were not less likely to develop GCA or PMR compared with women that indicated they avoided sun exposure [hazard ratio (HR) 1.2 (CI 0.9, 1.6) and 1.3 (0.9, 1.9), respectively] when adjusted for diabetes, hyperlipidaemia, hypertension, smoking, obesity and stratified by age. Similar patterns were observed when studying only GCA [HR 1.2 (CI 0.7, 2.3) and 1.3 (0.7, 2.6)] and only PMR [HR 1.3 (CI 0.9, 1.8) and 1.4 (0.9, 2.0)].ConclusionActive sun exposure did not affect the risk of developing GCA or PMR in women in a cohort with restricted latitudinal variability.
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| 44. |
- Gottenberg, J. E., et al.
(author)
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Brief Report : Association of Rheumatoid Factor and Anti-Citrullinated Protein Antibody Positivity with Better Effectiveness of Abatacept: Results from the Pan-European Registry Analysis
- 2016
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In: Arthritis & Rheumatology. - : Wiley. - 2326-5191. ; 68:6, s. 1346-1352
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Objective To investigate the role of rheumatoid factor (RF) status and anti-citrullinated peptide antibody (ACPA) status as predictors of abatacept (ABA) effectiveness in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Methods We conducted a pooled analysis of data from 9 observational RA registries in Europe (ARTIS [Sweden], ATTRA [Czech Republic], BIOBADASER [Spain], DANBIO [Denmark], GISEA [Italy], NOR-DMARD [Norway], ORA [France], Reuma.pt [Portugal], and SCQM-RA [Switzerland]). Inclusion criteria were a diagnosis of RA, initiation of ABA treatment, and available information on RF and/or ACPA status. The primary end point was continuation of ABA treatment. Secondary end points were ABA discontinuation for ineffectiveness or adverse events and response rates at 1 year (good or moderate response according to the European League Against Rheumatism criteria with LUNDEX adjustment for treatment continuation). Hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) for the study end points in relation to RF and ACPA status were calculated. Results We identified 2,942 patients with available data on RA-associated autoantibodies; data on RF status were available for 2,787 patients (77.0% of whom were RF positive), and data on ACPA status were available for 1,903 patients (71.3% of whom were ACPA positive). Even after adjustment for sociodemographic and disease- and treatment-related confounders, RF and ACPA positivity were each associated with a lower risk of ABA discontinuation for any reason (HR 0.79 [95% CI 0.69-0.90], P <0.001 and HR 0.78 [95% CI 0.68-0.90], P <0.001, respectively), compared to RF-negative and ACPA-negative patients. Similar associations with RF and ACPA were observed for discontinuation of ABA treatment due to ineffectiveness, with HRs of 0.72 (95% CI 0.61-0.84) and 0.74 (95% CI 0.62-0.88), respectively (both P <0.001). Conclusion Our results strongly suggest that positivity for RF or ACPA is associated with better effectiveness of ABA therapy.
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| 45. |
- Hameed, Mohaned, et al.
(author)
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Predictors at diagnosis for start of biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs in patients with early rheumatoid arthritis : a cohort study
- 2024
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In: BMJ Open. - 2044-6055. ; 14:2
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Objectives To investigate the relation between patient characteristics at rheumatoid arthritis (RA) diagnosis and subsequent initiation of treatment with biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (bDMARDs) or targeted synthetic DMARDs (tsDMARDs). Design A retrospective cohort study. Setting and participants Consecutive patients (N=330) with early RA (symptom duration <12 months) diagnosed at Skåne University Hospital, Malmö/Lund, Sweden, from 2012 to 2016, were included. Data on demographics, education, comorbidities and treatment were obtained from national registers. Outcome The relation between patient characteristics at diagnosis and time to first bDMARD/tsDMARD initiation was analysed using Cox regression models. As a secondary outcome, the relation between characteristics at diagnosis and b/tsDMARD initiation within 3 years was analysed using logistic regression. Results A total of 330 patients (mean age 59.2 years; SD 16.4) were included. During follow-up, 41% received a bDMARD (never preceded by a tsDMARD). Higher age at diagnosis was associated with a lower probability of starting bDMARD treatment (multivariable-adjusted HR 0.66 per SD; 95% CI 0.56 to 0.78). Anticitrullinated protein antibody (ACPA) positivity and higher tender joint count at diagnosis were also associated with subsequent bDMARD treatment initiation in multivariable analysis. A higher level of formal education and absence of comorbidities predicted start of a bDMARD in crude, but not in age-adjusted, analyses. Conclusions Older patients with RA were less likely to start bDMARDs, whereas ACPA-positive patients, and those with extensive joint involvement at diagnosis, were more likely to receive early bDMARD treatment. The impact of age on the subsequent start of bDMARD therapy was not explained by level of education or comorbidities, suggesting that other aspects of age influence treatment decisions in early RA.
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| 46. |
- Happonen, Kaisa, et al.
(author)
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COMP-C3b Complexes in Rheumatoid Arthritis with Severe Extraarticular Manifestations
- 2013
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In: Journal of Rheumatology. - : The Journal of Rheumatology. - 0315-162X .- 1499-2752. ; 40:12, s. 2001-2005
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Objective. To investigate biomarker patterns in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) with extraarticular manifestations. Methods. Cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP), COMP-C3b, and soluble terminal complement complexes (sTCC) were measured by ELISA. Results. COMP-C3b levels were higher in patients with RA than in healthy controls and lower in extraarticular RA (ExRA) than in RA controls. In patients with ExRA, sTCC levels were higher than in RA controls, and correlated inversely with serum COMP-C3b levels in the ExRA group. Conclusion. Patients with ExRA had lower levels of COMP-C3b. This may be a consequence of complement consumption or a lower potential for COMP from these patients to activate complement.
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| 47. |
- Hekmat, Korosh, et al.
(author)
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Changes and sex differences in patient reported outcomes in rheumatoid factor positive RA-results from a community based study.
- 2014
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In: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 1471-2474. ; 15:1
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Patient reported outcomes (PROs) are important measures in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). A register of patients with RA from all rheumatology care providers in Malmö, Sweden, was established in 1997 and has been continually updated. This register includes virtually all the RA patients in the area. The aim of this study was to analyse PROs in surveys of this population conducted between 1997 and 2009, and to assess differences in treatment and outcome in male and female patients.
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| 48. |
- Hekmat, Korosh, et al.
(author)
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Decrease in the incidence of total hip arthroplasties in patients with rheumatoid arthritis - results from a well defined population in south Sweden
- 2011
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In: Arthritis research & therapy. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 1478-6362 .- 1478-6354. ; 13:2
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- ABSTRACT: INTRODUCTION: One aim of modern pharmacologic treatment in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is to prevent joint destruction and reduce the need for surgery. Our purpose was to investigate secular trends in the incidence of primary total hip and knee arthroplasties in a well defined sample of patients with RA. METHODS: Prevalent cases with RA in 1997 and incident cases from 1997 to 2007 in a community based register in Malmö, south Sweden, were included. Based on a structured review of the medical records, patients were classified according to the 1987 ACR criteria for RA. This cohort was linked to the Swedish Hip Arthroplasty Register (through December 2006) and the Swedish Knee Arthroplasty Register (through October 2007). Patients with a registered total hip or knee arthroplasty before 1997 or before RA diagnosis were excluded. Incidence rates for the period of introduction of TNF inhibitors (1998 to 2001) were compared to the period when biologics were part of the established treatment for severe RA (2002 to 2006/2007). RESULTS: In the cohort (n = 2,164; 71% women) a primary hip arthroplasty was registered for 115 patients and a primary knee arthroplasty for 82 patients. The incidence of primary total hip arthroplasties decreased from the period 1998 to 2001 (12.6/1,000 person-years (pyr)) to 2002 to 2006 (6.6/1,000 pyr) (rate ratio (RR) 0.52; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.35 to 0.76). There was a trend towards an increase of primary knee arthroplasties (incidence 4.8/1,000 pyr vs. 6.8/1,000 pyr; RR 1.43; 95% CI 0.89 to 2.31). CONCLUSIONS: Our investigation shows a significant decrease in the incidence of total hip arthroplasties in patients with RA after 2001. Possible explanations include a positive effect on joint damage from more aggressive pharmacological treatment.
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| 49. |
- Hellmich, Bernhard, et al.
(author)
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2018 Update of the EULAR recommendations for the management of large vessel vasculitis
- 2020
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In: Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases. - : BMJ. - 0003-4967 .- 1468-2060. ; 79:1, s. 19-30
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background: Since the publication of the European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) recommendations for the management of large vessel vasculitis (LVV) in 2009, several relevant randomised clinical trials and cohort analyses have been published, which have the potential to change clinical care and therefore supporting the need to update the original recommendations. Methods: Using EULAR standardised operating procedures for EULAR-endorsed recommendations, the EULAR task force undertook a systematic literature review and sought opinion from 20 experts from 13 countries. We modified existing recommendations and created new recommendations. Results: Three overarching principles and 10 recommendations were formulated. We recommend that a suspected diagnosis of LVV should be confirmed by imaging or histology. High dose glucocorticoid therapy (40-60 mg/day prednisone-equivalent) should be initiated immediately for induction of remission in active giant cell arteritis (GCA) or Takayasu arteritis (TAK). We recommend adjunctive therapy in selected patients with GCA (refractory or relapsing disease, presence of an increased risk for glucocorticoid-related adverse events or complications) using tocilizumab. Methotrexate may be used as an alternative. Non-biological glucocorticoid-sparing agents should be given in combination with glucocorticoids in all patients with TAK and biological agents may be used in refractory or relapsing patients. We no longer recommend the routine use of antiplatelet or anticoagulant therapy for treatment of LVV unless it is indicated for other reasons. Conclusions: We have updated the recommendations for the management of LVV to facilitate the translation of current scientific evidence and expert opinion into better management and improved outcome of patients in clinical practice.
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| 50. |
- Iannone, Florenzo, et al.
(author)
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Body mass does not impact the clinical response to intravenous abatacept in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Analysis from the “pan-European registry collaboration for abatacept (PANABA)
- 2017
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In: Clinical Rheumatology. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 0770-3198 .- 1434-9949. ; 36:4, s. 773-779
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Some evidences suggest that obesity impairs the effectiveness of TNF inhibitors. We examined the impact of body mass index (BMI) on the clinical effectiveness of abatacept in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients. This is a pooled analysis of 10 prospective cohorts of RA patients. All patients with available BMI were included in this study. The primary endpoint was drug retention of abatacept in the different BMI categories. Multivariable Cox regression was used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) for drug discontinuation. A secondary endpoint was EULAR/LUNDEX response rates at 6/12 months. Of the 2015 RA patients initiating therapy with IV abatacept, 380 (18.9%) were classified as obese. Obese patients had more functional disability, and were less often RF positive. The median abatacept retention time was 1.91 years for obese RA patients compared to 2.12 years for non-obese patients (p = 0.15). The risk of abatacept discontinuation was not significantly different for overweight (HR 1.03 (95% CI 0.89–1.19)), or for obese (HR 1.08 (95% CI 0.89–1.30)) compared to normal-weight patients. Rheumatoid factor positivity reduced the risk of abatacept discontinuation (HR 0.83 (95% CI 0.72–0.95)), while previous biologic therapy was positively associated with drug interruption (HRs increasing from 1.68 to 2.16 with the line of treatments). Obese and non-obese patients attained similar rates of EULAR/LUNDEX clinical response at 6/12 months. Drug retention and clinical response rates to abatacept do not seem to be decreased by obesity in RA patients.
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