Ankle Involvement Research Articles

Retrospective Evaluation of Pediatric Patients Hospitalized with Brucellosis: Single Center Study in Istanbul

Aim: Brucellosis is a zoonotic disease and mainly develops as a result of consuming products of infected animals such as cattle, sheep and pigs. Material-Methods: Pediatric patients under the age of 18 who were hospitalized with a diagnosis of brucellosis in a third-level city hospital were included in the study. Serology titer ≥1:160 and/or Brucella spp in blood culture growth was determined as the diagnostic criterion for the diagnosis of brucellosis. Results: Of the 35 pediatric patients diagnosed with brucellosis, 22 were boys and 13 were girls, and the average age was determined as 154.2 ± 53.1 months (25-214). Hospital admission complaints were determined in order of frequency as follows; joint pain (51.4%), fever (31.4%), headache (17.1%) and abdominal pain (5.2%). Eleven of the patients (31.4%) had polyarthralgia and 7 (20%) had monoarthralgia. The most common physical examination findings were hepatomegaly (48.6%) and splenomegaly (40%), respectively. Joint involvement was detected in 17.1% of the patients. Sacroiliac joint involvement was reported in 3 (8.6%) patients, ankle joint involvement in 2 (5.7%) patients, and knee joint involvement in 1 (2.9%) patient. Anemia (60%) was the most common hematological finding. The average hemoglobin value was determined as 12.5±1.44 (10.2-15.9) g/dl. When patients are compared in terms of joint involvement; neutrophil count and treatment duration were found to be statistically higher in patients with joint involvement (p<0.05). Conclusion: Brucellosis is a zoonotic disease that is endemic in our country, affects all age groups, and can cause complications and relapses, and continues to be a serious public health problem for our country.

Multiportal Arthroscopy-assisted Surgical Resection of Diffuse-type Tenosynovial Giant Cell Tumors in the Ankle Joint Yields Favorable Clinical Outcomes: A Retrospective Study.

Diffuse-type tenosynovial giant cell tumors (Dt-TGCTs) commonly occur in the knee joint and tend to recur postoperatively. However, limited clinical data are available on ankle joint involvement especially associated multiportal arthroscopic treatment outcomes. The purpose of this study was to report the clinical results of multiportal arthroscopy-assisted resection of Dt-TGCTs of the ankle. We retrospectively reviewed the clinical data of 33 patients with Dt-TGCT of the ankle who underwent multiportal arthroscopic treatment between August 2011 and December 2020. Clinical follow-up included the visual analogue scale (VAS) score, American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score, Kofoed score, and recurrence rate to assess surgical outcomes. The number of patients who achieved the patient acceptable symptom state (PASS) based on the AOFAS score was also examined. Additionally, the patients were categorized into two groups based on the final surgical approach: Group A who underwent multiportal arthroscopic synovectomy and Group AO who underwent combined arthroscopic and open surgical excision. Intergroup comparisons were conducted. Intraoperative characteristics, such as the number of patients with involvement of the tarsal tunnel and fibularis tendon and the Outerbridge grading of cartilage damage, were recorded to assess the selection of surgical procedures. Among the 33 patients, 15 were assigned to Group A, and 18 were in Group AO. The median follow-up duration for the 33 patients was 77 months (range, 28-142 months). The median VAS score was 1 (range, 0-4), the AOFAS score was 96 (range, 65-100), and the Kofoed score was 96 (range, 67-100). A total of 27 patients (82%) achieved PASS based on AOFAS scores, while five patients (15%) had recurrence. No statistically significant difference was observed between the two groups in recurrence rate, follow-up VAS score, AOFAS score, Kofoed score, or number of patients who reached the PASS (p > 0.05). In the AO group, 16 cases of Dt-TGCT involved the tarsal tunnel, and 11 cases involved the fibularis tendon. All these patients exhibited extension beyond the joint. In contrast, only one patient in Group A had involvement of the tarsal tunnel. Statistically significant differences were observed between the groups (p < 0.001). This study demonstrated that, with the assistance of a multiportal arthroscopic approach, surgical excision of Dt-TGCT in the ankle resulted in favorable clinical outcomes with a relatively low recurrence rate. Additionally, patients with extra-articular involvement were more likely to require concomitant open surgery.

The Radiological Anatomy of the Distal Tibiofibular Joint: A Retrospective Computed Tomography Study.

Introduction Distal tibiofibular joint (DTFJ) injuries are commonly encountered in patients with ankle fractures. Achieving optimal fixation is mandatory, but it requires a thorough understanding of the local anatomical relationships. For this reason, we performed a retrospective CT study in healthy ankles to radiologically describe the normal anatomy of the DTFJ and the anatomical relationship of the fibula within the ankle joint. Materials and methods For this study, we retrospectively examined 60 CT scans of healthy, non-injured ankles in a plantigrade position. Patients with prior ankle surgery or systemic diseases with ankle involvement were excluded because we needed to describe the normal anatomy of the joint. The radiological evaluation included the position of the fibula in the fibular notch and the rotational relationship of the fibula with the talus and the medial malleolus. Results Our study included 60 healthy ankles. Thirty-three were right ankles, and 27 were left. The cohort included 36 females and 24 males with a mean age of 48.3 years old. We found that the fibular notch was retroverted on the transverse plane, with the tibiofibular engagement being 0.11 mm (SD=1.57 mm, SE=0.2 mm), at 1 cm proximally to the tibial plafond. Additionally, we observed that the fibula was internally rotated against the lateral talar facet, while the medial and lateral malleolus facets were externally rotated in between. Moreover, we found a strong positive correlation between the incisura retroversion and fibular engagement at 1 cm above the tibial plafond line (Pearson correlation=0.273, p=0.03). Conclusion Our study highlights the importance of gaining a comprehensive understanding of the inherent anatomy of the DTFJ to achieve reduction goals in ankle fractures. According to our results, in ankle fracture treatment, surgeons should aim for anatomical fracture and syndesmotic fixation, with the fibula in internal rotation against the lateral talar facet. Additionally, as normal tibiofibular engagement is borderline, we do not suggest that over-tightening the syndesmotic screws is essential. This study's findings can aid surgeons in reducing the malreduction rates in patients with ankle fractures.

Osteopoikilosis: a case report

BackgroundOsteopoikilosis, also referred to as disseminated condensing osteopathy, spotted bone disease, or osteopecilia, is a rare bone disorder. The case presented here showcases multiple disc lesions in the spine, extensive multifocal skin lesions, and positive test results for dermatomyositis and multifocal enthesopathy, accompanied by neurological symptoms. This manifestation represents a novel variant of the disease.Case presentationOur patient is a 46-year-old mosque Kurdish servant presenting with complaints of pain in the right leg, lower back, right hand, and neck. Additionally, the patient has been experiencing redness in the right buttock and ipsilateral thigh, as well as gradually expanding and stiffening skin lesions on the left shin for the past 3 weeks. Painful neck movements and a positive Lasegue test were also observed in the right leg. The patient reports pain in the right buttock accompanied by a substantial erythematous area with induration measuring 8 × 15 cm, as well as an erythematous and maculopapular lesion measuring 6 × 18 cm on the left shin.ConclusionsOur patient is a 46-year-old man presenting with complaints of skin lesions and pain in the lower back, pelvis, neck, and limbs. The X-ray reveals shoulder, pelvis, knee, and ankle involvement, while spinal involvement is observed in the neck and lumbar region. Furthermore, the bone scan indicates extensive enthesopathy in various regions, a unique manifestation not previously reported in similar cases.

Foot-related impairment in children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis.

Foot involvement is present in approximately 60%-90% of children with Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). It is a major cause of disability, which can lead to deterioration in daily activities and quality of life. However, it is often overlooked and can compromise patient management. Our objective was to describe the ankle and foot involvement in JIA and to appraise the functional impact of this damage on the child's performance and quality of life by using validated scores. The cross-sectional study included patients with JIA. Functional impairment was assessed through the Juvenile Arthritis Functionality Scale (JAFS) and the Oxford Ankle and Foot Questionnaire for children. Twenty-three patients aged 12.75±3.9 and with 41months of disease duration. After completing the Oxford score, the physical domain appeared to be the most altered. A long delay in diagnosis was associated with an alteration in the emotional domain of the Oxford score. Higher disease activity was significantly associated with impairment in both the physical activity and the footwear domains of the Oxford score. As regards clinical examination data, the presence of foot pain as well as the presence of tendinopathy were associated with an alteration of all Oxford score domains. The presence of flat feet significantly affected all domains of the Oxford score. The JAFS was reported to affect the child's performance ability and was associated with impairment in physical activity, school and play, and emotional domains. Ankle and foot involvement was common in our study. Functional ability was most impaired in the lower limbs. High disease activity, foot and ankle pain, tenosynovitis, and flat feet were associated with poorer quality of life and higher functional impact.

Developing a core outcome set for foot and ankle disorders in rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases: A scoping review and report from the OMERACT 2022 foot and ankle special interest group session

ObjectivesFoot and ankle involvement is common in rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases, yet high-quality evidence assessing the effectiveness of treatments for these disorders is lacking. The Outcome Measures in Rheumatology (OMERACT) Foot and Ankle Working Group is developing a core outcome set for use in clinical trials and longitudinal observational studies in this area. MethodsA scoping review was performed to identify outcome domains in the existing literature. Clinical trials and observational studies comparing pharmacological, conservative or surgical interventions involving adult participants with any foot or ankle disorder in the following rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs) were eligible for inclusion: rheumatoid arthritis (RA), osteoarthritis (OA), spondyloarthropathies, crystal arthropathies and connective tissue diseases. Outcome domains were categorised according to the OMERACT Filter 2.1. ResultsOutcome domains were extracted from 150 eligible studies. Most studies included participants with foot/ankle OA (63% of studies) or foot/ankle involvement in RA (29% of studies). Foot/ankle pain was the outcome domain most commonly measured (78% of studies), being the most frequently specified outcome domain across all RMDs. There was considerable heterogeneity in the other outcome domains measured, across core areas of manifestations (signs, symptoms, biomarkers), life impact, and societal/resource use. The group's progress to date, including findings from the scoping review, was presented and discussed during a virtual OMERACT Special Interest Group (SIG) in October 2022. During this meeting, feedback was sought amongst delegates regarding the scope of the core outcome set, and feedback was received on the next steps of the project, including focus group and Delphi methods. ConclusionFindings from the scoping review and feedback from the SIG will contribute to the development of a core outcome set for foot and ankle disorders in RMDs. The next steps are to determine which outcome domains are important to patients, followed by a Delphi exercise with key stakeholders to prioritise outcome domains.

Isolated calcaneal tuberculous osteomyelitis in a 13-year female: a diagnostic dilemma: rare case report and review of literature

Foot and ankle involvement in osteoarticular tuberculosis is uncommon and isolated calcaneal tubercular osteomyelitis of foot bones sparing nearby joints with an osteolytic defect is even more rare. Worsening of the disease can occur over a time involving nearby joints and small bones if diagnostic and therapeutic phase are delayed. We present a retrospective study of osteolytic variety of foot calcaneal bone tuberculosis. We present a case report of 13-year female with isolated osteolytic variety of calcaneal tuberculous osteomyelitis to highlight the clinical, radiological features and management challenges of the condition. Biopsy was done to confirm tissue diagnosis based on Gene Xpert, AFB staining, MGIT culture, and histopathology. Surgical intervention was done in form of debridement and sinus tract removal as a diagnostic and therapeutic purpose to prevent further involvement of a nearby joints and small bone with cystic destruction. Isolated calcaneal tubercular osteomyelitis cases are still found to be seen in our environment though considered a rare. When tuberculous pathology is limited to the isolated calcaneal bone sparing the other joints, the prognosis is better than in osteoarticular disease, as there is less deformity, and hence, less residual pain and disability.

P041 Living with foot and ankle disorders in rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases: a thematic synthesis of qualitative studies to inform the work of the Outcome Measures in Rheumatology (OMERACT) Foot and Ankle Working Group

Abstract Background/Aims Foot and ankle involvement is common in rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs), but high-quality evidence is lacking to determine the effectiveness of foot and ankle treatments. Heterogeneity in the outcomes used across clinical trials in this area hinders the ability to compare study findings, and some outcomes are not always meaningful to patients. This study aimed to determine what outcomes are important to patients by exploring and synthesising qualitative data relating to the symptoms and impact of living with foot and ankle disorders in RMDs. Methods Six databases (CINAHL; Ovid Embase; Ovid MEDLINE; Psycinfo; Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews; CENTRAL) were searched from inception to March 2022. Qualitative interview or focus group studies published in English and involving participants living with foot or ankle disorders in RMDs (inflammatory arthritis, osteoarthritis, crystal arthropathies, connective tissue diseases, and musculoskeletal conditions in the absence of systemic disease) were included. Quality was assessed using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme qualitative tool. All data from the results section of included studies were extracted, coded and synthesised to develop themes. Patient and public involvement contributors were involved throughout the review, from design of the study to interpretation of the results and discussions about the findings. Results Of 1,440 database records screened, 34 studies were included, with a total of 581 participants. Studies focused on living with foot or ankle disorders in rheumatoid arthritis (n = 18), osteoarthritis (n = 5), gout (n = 3), psoriatic arthritis (n = 1), lupus (n = 1), posterior tibial tendon dysfunction (n = 1), plantar heel pain (n = 1), Achilles tendonitis (n = 1), and mixed population (n = 3) patients. Six themes were generated from the thematic synthesis: pain, change in appearance, activity limitations, social isolation, limited work ability and emotional impact. Foot or ankle pain was the predominant symptom experienced by patients in all included studies and was closely linked to other themes. Both pain and change in appearance of the feet or ankles (deformity), and subsequent limitations in footwear and clothing choices, led to restrictions in physical activities, social participation and work. Emotional distress, including anxiety, anger and embarrassment, was common among patients with foot and ankle disorders across all of the RMDs explored in this review. Conclusion This is the first study to synthesise findings of qualitative research exploring the lived experience of patients with foot and ankle disorders in RMDs. Findings indicate that these disorders impact on multiple areas of patients’ lives, both physically and psychologically. Patients’ experiences of foot and ankle disorders are similar across different RMDs, although there are a limited number of qualitative studies focusing on conditions other than rheumatoid arthritis. These findings will inform a future consensus study prioritising the outcomes that should be measured in future research studies and clinical practice. Disclosure L.S. Chapman: None. C. Flurey: None. A.C. Redmond: None. P. Richards: None. C. Hofstetter: None. B. Tapster: None. J. Emmel: None. P.S. Helliwell: None. H.B. Menz: None. M.T. Hannan: None. B. Shea: None. H.J. Siddle: None.

Developing an Outcome Measures in Rheumatology (OMERACT) Core set of Outcome Measures for FOot and ankle disorders in RheumaTic and musculoskeletal diseases (COMFORT): core domain set study protocol

BackgroundFoot and ankle involvement is common in rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs). High-quality evidence is lacking to determine the effectiveness of treatments for these disorders. Heterogeneity in the outcomes used across clinical trials and observational studies hinders the ability to compare findings, and some outcomes are not always meaningful to patients and end-users. The Core set of Outcome Measures for FOot and ankle disorders in RheumaTic and musculoskeletal diseases (COMFORT) study aims to develop a core outcome set (COS) for use in all trials of interventions for foot and ankle disorders in RMDs. This protocol addresses core outcome domains (what to measure) only. Future work will focus on core outcome measurement instruments (how to measure).MethodsCOMFORT: Core Domain Set is a mixed-methods study involving the following: (i) identification of important outcome domains through literature reviews, qualitative interviews and focus groups with patients and (ii) prioritisation of domains through an online, modified Delphi consensus study and subsequent consensus meeting with representation from all stakeholder groups. Findings will be disseminated widely to enhance uptake.ConclusionsThis protocol details the development process and methodology to identify and prioritise domains for a COS in the novel area of foot and ankle disorders in RMDs. Future use of this standardised set of outcome domains, developed with all key stakeholders, will help address issues with outcome variability. This will facilitate comparing and combining study findings, thus improving the evidence base for treatments of these conditions. Future work will identify suitable outcome measurement instruments for each of the core domains.Trial registrationThis study is registered with the Core Outcome Measures in Effectiveness Trials (COMET) database, as of June 2022: https://www.comet-initiative.org/Studies/Details/2081

Decreased Peritalar Subluxation in Progressive Collapsing Foot Deformity with Ankle Valgus Tilting.

Middle facet subluxation (MFS) has been established as an early indicator of peritalar subluxation. However, when progressive collapsing foot deformity (PCFD) affects the ankle leading to a valgus talar tilt (Class E), structures and anatomic relationships distal to the ankle joint may be affected. Therefore, this study aimed to assess radiographic parameters of peritalar subluxation in patients with PCFD who either did or did not have a valgus ankle. Our hypothesis was that these parameters would differ in Class E patients, upsetting their capability to quantify deformity. We performed a prospective comparative study utilizing weight-bearing computed tomography (WBCT) images of 21 feet with PCFD and with valgus of the ankle and 64 with flexible PCFD without ankle involvement. Parameters including MFS, the medial cuneiform-to-floor distance, the forefoot arch angle, the talonavicular coverage angle, the hindfoot moment arm (HMA), the foot-ankle offset (FAO), and the talar tilt angle (TTA) were measured and compared. Variables that influence the presence of ankle valgus and overall alignment were assessed by multivariable regression models. Patients with PCFD and ankle valgus demonstrated a higher mean HMA (20.79 mm [95% confidence interval (CI), 17.56 to 24.02 mm] versus 8.94 mm [95% CI, 7.09 to 10.79 mm]), FAO (14.89% [95% CI, 12.51% to 17.26%] versus 6.32% [95% CI, 4.96% to 7.68%]) and TTA (95% CI, 17.10° [14.75° to 19.46°] versus 2.30° [95% CI, 0.94° to 3.65°]) and lower mean MFS (21.84% [95% CI, 15.04% to 28.63%] versus 38.45% [95% CI, 34.55% to 42.34%]) compared with the group without ankle valgus (p < 0.0001 for all). The FAO was influenced by MFS in the group without ankle valgus (p <0.0001) but not in the group with ankle valgus (p = 0.9161). FAO values of ≥12.14% were a strong predictor (79.2%) of ankle valgus deformity. Subluxation of the middle facet was not as severe and did not influence the overall alignment in patients with PCFD who had valgus of the ankle (Class E). These findings suggest a distal peritalar reduction in the presence of a proximal deformity, making MFS an imprecise disease parameter in this scenario. An FAO value of ≥12.14% was a strong indicator of ankle deformity in patients with PCFD. Diagnostic Level II. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Unmasking the “Great Masquerader:” Tuberculosis of the Foot

Abstract Introduction: Osteoarticular tuberculosis (TB) accounts for only 1%–3% of extrapulmonary TB, of which ankle and foot involvement accounts for only 8%–10%. Foot and ankle TB has a varied clinical and radiological presentation and can mimic many conditions. The aim of this study is to throw light on the varied clinical and radiological presentations of this disease. Materials and Methods: We studied 20 patients with suspected osteoarticular TB of the ankle and foot region over 3 years. The patients were evaluated based on clinical presentation, radiology, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings, molecular studies (cartridge-based nucleic acid amplification test [CBNAAT]), biopsy, microbiological staining and culture, erythrocyte sedimentation rate ESR, and C-reactive protein levels. The patients were categorized into subgroups in accordance with their findings. Results: All cases had some form of pain, swelling, tenderness, or inability to bear weight. Twenty-five percent presented with single or multiple draining sinuses at or around the ankle. On X-rays, 30% had unremarkable radiographs, and osteopenia/cavitation of one or more bones was found in 30% of cases. Sequestrum formation was seen in 20% of the cases. No advanced arthritis and collapse were noted. In MRI, all cases had marrow edema of one or more bones. Twenty percent had features of tenosynovitis. CBNAAT was done for all the patients of whom eight turned positive for the pathogen. Discussion: The classical features of skeletal TB may elusive in cases of TB of the foot and ankle. Plain radiographs may not be sensitive in detecting early cases. In MRI studies, the calcaneum and talus were mostly affected. This may indicate toward a hypothesis that the calcaneum/talus may be the primary source of origin in osteoarticular TB of the ankle and foot region. Biopsy remains the gold standard in diagnosing TB. All patients responded well to the medical management. We can conclude with surety that TB of the foot and ankle is primarily a medical condition if prompt and early diagnosis is made.

972. Bone and Joint Infections : Looking Beyond Gram Positive Bugs, A Case Series from Mumbai, India

Abstract Background Bone and joint infection (BJI) is a dreadful complication of arthroplasties and orthopaedic trauma. Infection with non traditional organisms is a trade off for medical advances such as newer immunosuppressants and implants. Complex BJIs, may be complicated by longer hospitalizations and higher costs due to the virulence of organisms, growing resistance to antibiotics and patient comorbidities, especially immunocompromised status. The purpose of this study was to analyse the various characteristics of BJIs with emphasis on the organisms cultured. Methods 21 consecutive patients of BJIs were prospectively included from June 2021 to March 2022. Demographic features, comorbidities, anatomic site involved, previous surgical intervention, presence of implant, infecting organism, their susceptibility patterns, inflammatory markers, surgical procedure performed, antibiotics given , their route, duration and the outcome were noted. Results 12/21 (57.14 %) had spondylodiscitis ; 4/21 (19.04 %) knee joint involvement ; 3/21 (14.29 %) orthopaedic trauma ; 3/21 (14.29 %) hip involvement ; 1 ankle joint involvement (diabetic foot) and 1 sternal osteomyelitis. 17/21 (80.95 %) had comorbidities. 7/21 (33.33 %) were immunosuppressed . 14/21 (66.67 %) had undergone recent surgery. 11 gram positive, 8 gram negative organisms and 3 fungi were isolated . 2 were culture negative and 4 had mycobacterial infection. Histopathology revealed pyogenic inflammation in bacterial and granulomatous inflammation in fungal and mycobacterial infections. CRP and ESR were elevated in all bacterial infections and were used to guide antibiotic route switchover. All bacterial infections were treated with 6 weeks of antibiotics .14/21 (66.67 %) underwent surgery, whereas the rest underwent diagnostic aspiration and biopsy only. 3/21 (14.29 %) had relapse on stopping antibiotics and responded after restarting. Conclusion Though staphylococcus is thought to be the culprit in most cases of BJIs, gram negative organisms, mycobacteria and fungi are gaining centrestage. Histopathology can give important clues in the absence of positive cultures. Surgical interventions, implant presence and immunosuppressed states are implicated in a majority of the infections. CRP guided therapy is a valuable strategy. Disclosures All Authors: No reported disclosures.

Serum salusin-α and salusin-β levels in patients with psoriatic arthritis

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by skin lesions and joint involvement. Salusin-α and salusin-β are two new bioactive molecules. It is reported that salusins may have role in regulation of the immune system and inflammation. The aim of our study was to evaluate the serum salusin-α and salusin-β levels in PsA patients and to establish the possible relationship with the disease features. Our study included 40 PsA patients who fulfilled the CASPAR criteria and 40 healthy volunteers. Demographic, clinical, laboratory and radiological data and disease activity indices (PASI, BASDAI, BASFI, HAQ) were recorded in all patients. The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method was used to measure serum salusin-α and salusin-β levels. The demographic data were as follows: 13 patients (32.5%) were males and 27 (67.5%) were female, mean age was 48.5 years and mean disease duration was 2.4 years. Patients' history was taken and clinical assessment was performed; 20 (50%) patients had a family history, 18 (45%) patients were smoker, 19 (47.5%) patients had HLA-B27 positivity, 33 (82.5%) had sacroiliitis, 36 (90%) had enthesitis, 23 (57.5%) had distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint and nail involvement, 26 (65%) had wrist involvement, and 11 (27.5%) had ankle involvement. Laboratory data of the patients were recorded; 20 (50%) patients had elevated CRP level and 25 (62.5%) patients had an elevated ESR level. The study results showed that PsA patients had an elevated serum salusin-α level when compared with the control group (p = 0.004). The association between serum salusin-α level and ankle arthritis was found (p = 0.04). Serum levels of salusin-β were similar in PsA patients and controls both (p = 0.285). We found elevated serum salusin-α in PsA patients while the serum salusin-β levels were normal. Salusin-α may have a possible role in disease pathogenesis and it may be use as a reliable biomarker in PsA patients. Multicenter prospective studies are needed in this regard.

Does concomitant gout in septic arthritis affect surgical outcomes?

BackgroundWe aim to review and describe the proportion of patients with co-existing gout amongst patients with surgical treated septic arthritis, characterize their clinical presentation, outcomes and complications compared to patients with native joint septic arthritis. MethodsSixty-one patients with surgically treated primary joint septic arthritis were identified from the period of January 2011 to December 2016. There were 13 (21.3%) patients with co-existing septic arthritis and crystal proven gout. Pertinent details such as demographics, comorbidities, clinical features on presentation, infection markers, number of surgeries, length of stay (LOS) in general and individual LOS in supportive care units, limb amputations, readmissions and mortality were reviewed. Multiple linear and logistic regression models were used to control for confounders during analysis. ResultsThe average age of patients was 60.8 years (range: 23–87 years). The patients with gout are associated with comorbidities such as being hypertensive, hyperlipidemia and renal impaired. They tend to present with ankle joint involvement (46.2% vs 8.3%; p = 0.004) while septic arthritis patients without gout tend to present with knee joint involvement (75% vs 46.2%; p = 0.046). In terms of complications, up to two thirds of them require supportive care in the High Dependency Unit and/or Intensive Care Unit during treatment (61.5% vs 29.2%; p = 0.031) and having gout with septic arthritis independently predicted a significant increase in LOS by an additional 12.6 days on average (95% CI: 2.11 – 23.03; p = 0.019). They are also more likely to end up with limb amputation (23.1% vs 0%; p = 0.008) on univariate analysis. ConclusionGout accompanying septic arthritis in the same joint is potentially associated with major systemic and joint related sequela, complications in terms of prolonged hospital stay, need for complex care and risk for limb amputation. Our findings further indicate the value and need for well-designed prospective controlled cohort studies to explore the relationship between gout and septic arthritis

20 Does hip involvement affect foot and ankle in juvenile idiopathic arthritis?

BackgroundAlthough ankle and foot involvements are common in juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), they are often neglected. Hip involvement, also common in JIA, may affect these joints by creating a chronic imbalance of the musculoskeletal system. However, no studies have been published on this subject.ObjectiveWe aimed to describe ankle and foot impairment in a cohort of patients with JIA and to study the correlation between these impairments and the presence of hip arthritis.MethodsA monocentric cross-sectional study was conducted including JIA patients fulfilling the 2001 ILAR criteria. Patients with congenital malformation of the ankle or foot or with any other foot impairment due to a disease other than JIA were not included. Foot examination was performed on bare feet both in supine and standing position. We completed with an analysis of footprint with a podoscope and shoes examination. Patients were divided in two groups depending on the presence or the absence of hip arthritis on pelvis X-ray, hip ultrasound or hip magnetic resonance imaging.ResultsWe included 35 patients (M/F = 15/20). Hip arthritis was noted in 45.7%. Oligoarticular (43.8%) and enthesitis-related arthritis (25%) were the most frequent form of JIA. Functional complaints related to foot and ankle were reported in 34.3% of cases. The pain was the most frequent symptom (91%), mainly in the hindfoot and ankle (50%). Foot pain was more frequently encountered in the absence of hip arthritis (52%, vs 31.2% in presence of hip arthritis). Physical examination revealed limitation of the talocrural joint in 20% of cases and feet tenosynovitis in 14.3% of cases. Achille tendon enthesitis was found in 8.6% of patients. These abnormalities were more prevalent in the absence of hip arthritis. Half of the patients had hindfoot deviation dominated by hindfoot varus (22.9%). In the group with hip arthritis, a hallux valgus was found in 14.3%, a supraductus of the 2nd toe, and claw toe in one case each. An anomaly of the footprint was noted in 28 patients, including 11 in the group with hip involvement: 7 cases of cavus foot and 4 cases of flat foot. There were no correlations between foot or ankle anomalies with hip impairment apart from an association of flat foot with the absence of coxitis, and a leg length discrepancy more important in the group with hip arthritis.ConclusionsOur study confirms the frequency of foot and ankle involvement as well as hip arthritis during JIA, hence the importance of their systematic screening even in asymptomatic children. Larger-scale studies would be necessary to evaluate with more precision the relation that there could be between hip and foot impairment.

06 Flat foot impairs physical activity in children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis

BackgroundChildren with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) are less active compared with the general population due to pain and deformities, mainly of the lower limbs. Indeed, only 23% of children with JIA meet the public health recommendations of one h of moderate to vigorous physical activity daily [1]. In this context, foot involvement in JIA is a considerable limiting cause of physical activity.ObjectivesOur study aimed to investigate the types of static foot disorders that impede physical activity in children with JIA.MethodsWe conducted a cross-sectional study of patients with JIA according to the revised ILAR criteria. Socio-demographic and disease-related data were recorded. All patients underwent podoscope examination for varus or valgus deformity of the hindfoot and plantar footprint abnormality (flat foot or hollow foot). Patients with ankle or foot involvement due to congenital malformation or any other cause besides JIA were excluded. The impact of foot involvement on physical activity was assessed by the Oxford ankle foot questionnaire for children (OxAFQ-C). A higher score represents better functioning. We looked for the effect of foot abnormalities and their impact on physical activity.ResultsA total of 23 patients were collected. The mean age was 12.7 ± 3 [6–18] years and the mean age at diagnosis was 9.3 ± 3 [3–16] years. There was a female predominance with a sex ratio of 0.42. The majority of patients had secondary education (52%). The distribution of the different subtypes was dominated by the oligoarticular form (30%) and the enthesitis-related arthritis form (26%), followed by the polyarticular FR + (n = 1), polyarticular FR- (n = 3), psoriatic arthritis (n = 3), systemic (n = 1) and undifferentiated (n = 1) forms. The mean physical activity score assessed by the Oxford score was 73.52 ± 35.8 [0 – 100]. Plantar footprint abnormalities of the hollow and flat foot were found in 39% and 30% of cases respectively. These abnormalities were unilateral and bilateral in 7 and 9 patients respectively. Eleven patients (48%) had a hindfoot abnormality and 30% of them had a limitation of joint movement range. There was no statistically significant association between the physical domain of the Oxford score and the presence of a limited range of the talocrural joint (p> 0.05). A significant reduction in physical activity was associated with hindfoot pain (5.37 vs 89.56; p< 0.001) but was not associated with the presence of hindfoot abnormalities (p = 0.05). The presence of flat feet was significantly associated with impairment in all domains of the Oxford score, particularly in the physical domain (36.79 for the flat foot group vs 89.2 for the group without flat feet, p = 0.001). However, the presence of a hollow foot did not lead to an alteration of the physical activity of JIA patients (p> 0.05).ConclusionOur study showed that the flat foot was associated with a reduction in physical activity. Early detection of this abnormality and adapted podiatric care could improve the function of young patients with JIA.

05 Methotrexate improve the foot functional impairment in juvenile idiopathic arthritis

BackgroundFoot involvement in juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is common and affects about 60% of children [1]. Often overlooked by patients and practitioners, ankle and foot disability has been poorly studied and there are no accepted clinical practice guidelines for the diagnostic approach, as well as for the therapeutic management.ObjectivesOur study aimed to evaluate the effect of medical treatments on functional disability related to foot involvement in JIA.MethodsWe conducted a cross-sectional study including patients with JIA according to the revised ILAR criteria, collected from the rheumatology department of the Kassab National Institute. Sociodemographic and disease data (activity assessed by the Juvenile Arthritis Disease Activity Score 10 (JADAS-10) and therapeutic modalities) were recorded. Ankle and foot involvement were investigated by questioning and physical examination. We used the Oxford ankle foot questionnaire for children (OxAFQ-C); a validated, simple and reproducible score to assess the impact on the quality of life of children with foot problems [2]. This questionnaire encompasses 14 items corresponding to three dimensions: physical, school and play, and emotional. Higher scores represent better functioning. We searched for an association between the different drug treatments for JIA and the OxAFQ-C score.ResultsThe study included 23 patients. The mean age was 13 ± 4 [6–18] years. The sex ratio was 0.42 with a female predominance. The age of the disease was 49 ± 40 months [6–180 months]. The distribution of the different forms of JIA was as follows: oligoarticular (n = 7), enthesitis-related arthritis (n = 6), polyarticular FR + (n = 1), polyarticular FR- (n = 3), psoriatic arthritis (n = 3), systemic (n = 1) and undifferentiated (n = 1). Pain on walking and limitation of the talocrural joint was found in 39% and 30% respectively. The mean JADAS-10 score was 6.72 ± 6.1 [0–20]. Ten patients had high activity. Eighteen patients (78%) were taking level I analgesics and 14 patients (61%) were on non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, 12 of them on demand. Naproxen was the most commonly used drug, followed by diclofenac. Eleven patients (48%) were on a disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drug (csDMARD). Methotrexate (MTX) was prescribed in 30% of cases with a mean dose of 7.91 mg/week [7.5–10]. Only one patient was on sulfasalazine. Four patients (17%) were treated with biologics: Etanercept (n = 3) and Tocilizumab (n = 1). The mean scores of the different domains of (OxAFQ-C) were as follows: 73.52 ± 35.89 [0—100] in the physical domain, 84.2 ± 30 [6.25—100] in the school and play domain, 88.75 ± 24.71 [12.5 – 100] in the emotional domain. There was no statistically significant association between the different domains of the Oxford score and the use of analgesics or NSAIDs (p> 0.05). Similarly, there was no statistically significant association between the different domains of the Oxford score and treatment with biotherapy (p> 0.05). However, patients on MTX had less functional impairment of the feet with a significant improvement in the physical domain (99.26 on MTX vs 62.5 without MTX, p = 0.02, r = 0.6).ConclusionOur work showed that only methotrexate was associated with an improvement in functional foot outcomes in JIA. Further studies are needed to highlight the effect of other therapies, especially biologics.

The frequency and characteristics of ultrasonographic ankle joint involvement in systemic lupus erythematosus: A prospective cross-sectional single-center study.

The involvement of ankles in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) has not been widely studied. The aim of our prospective study was to determine the characteristics of the ankle joint and tendon involvement in SLE using ultrasound (US) as an imaging modality. Sixty consecutive patients with SLE underwent a detailed clinical evaluation and US examination. Gray-scale and power Doppler US of the bilateral tibiotalar (TT) joints, subtalar (ST) joints, and ankle tendons were performed using a multiplanar scanning technique. Joint effusion, synovitis, tenosynovitis, enthesitis, and vascularization were assessed according to the OMERACT recommendations. The Total Ankle Ultrasound Score (TAUSS) was calculated as the sum of the grades of joint effusion and synovial hypertrophy for both TT and ST joints bilaterally (ranging from 0–24) and power Doppler activity was assessed separately. Finally, US findings were correlated with physical evaluation, laboratory parameters, and SLE activity scores. US ankle joint involvement was present in 32/60 (53.3%) patients. TT joints were affected in 26 (43.3%) and ST joints in 16 (26.7%) patients. Thirteen (21.7%) patients had US tendons and/or enthesal involvement. TT joint effusion was the most frequent finding, present in 55/240 (22.9%) examined joints, followed by synovial hypertrophy detected in 18/240 (7.5%) joints. The median (interquartile range; range) TAUSS of the US-affected joints was 1 (0–2; range 1–10). There were no significant correlations between US findings and inflammatory parameters or serological parameters of disease activity, but we found a weak positive correlation between TAUSS and the European Consensus Lupus Activity Measurement (r = 0.281, P = .029). This study revealed a high prevalence of pathological US ankle changes in patients with SLE and a positive correlation between ankle US involvement and disease activity score (European Consensus Lupus Activity Measurement).

Clinical characteristics of multicentric reticulohistiocytosis and distinguished features from rheumatoid arthritis: a single-center experience in China

ObjectiveTo investigate the clinical features of multicentric reticulohistiocytosis (MRH).MethodsThe clinical manifestations, laboratory examination results and histologic characteristics of eleven patients with MRH were collected and compared with those of 33 patients with rheumatoid arthritis.ResultsIn total, 72.7% of the MRH patients were women. The median age was 46 years (range 33–84 years). Diagnosed by specific pathologic features, all MRH patients exhibited cutaneous involvement. The dorsa of the hands, arms, face and auricle were the most commonly affected areas. Nodules were also located on the legs, scalp, trunk, neck, and even the hypoglossis and buccal mucosa. Ten MRH patients (90.9%) had symmetric polyarthritis. Compared with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients, MRH patients were more likely to have distal interphalangeal joint (DIP) involvement (63.6% vs 24.2%, P = 0.017) and less likely to have elbow (36.4% vs 72.7%, P = 0.003), ankle (45.5% vs 93.9%, P < 0.001) and metacarpophalangeal joint (MCP) (36.4% vs 78.8%, P = 0.009) involvement. Positivity for rheumatoid factor (RF) (36.4% vs 84.6%, P = 0.001) and anti-CCP antibody (9.1% vs 81.8%, P = 0.000), as well as the median RF titer [43.8 (31.7–61.0) vs 175.4 (21.3–940.3), P = 0.021], in MRH patients was lower than in RA patients. Elevation of the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) was also less common in MRH patients than in RA patients (36.4% vs 72.7%, P = 0.030). After treatment with median- to large-dose corticosteroids and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs, 8 patients achieved complete remission and 2 patients partial remission (skin lesions ameliorated, joint lesions not ameliorated).ConclusionAlways pathologically diagnosed, MRH is a systemic disease involving RA-like erosive polyarthritis and a specific distribution of skin nodules characterized by "coral beads". More DIP involvement and less elbow, ankle and MCP involvement are seen in MRH than in RA. In addition, less positivity and lower-titer RF, uncommon presence of anti-CCP antibodies and ESR elevation may be helpful to distinguish MRH from RA.

Ultrasonographic Assessment for Tenosynovitis in Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis with Ankle Involvement: Diagnostic and Therapeutic Significance.

Background: The role of musculoskeletal ultrasound in JIA is still controversial, although there is growing evidence on its utility, especially in the diagnosis of tenosynovitis. Methods: We presented a retrospective cross-sectional study of a group of patients with JIA with ankle swelling followed in a Pediatric Rheumatology Service of a tertiary-level pediatric hospital in Northern Italy during the follow-up period between January 1st 2003 and December 31st 2019. Preliminary results have been presented at the EULAR Congress 2021. We enrolled only patients who underwent msk-US, and we identified those with a clinical and sonographic diagnosis of tenosynovitis. For each patient, we collected data on demographics, clinical characteristics, and therapeutic strategies during the follow-up. Results: On December 31st 2019, 56 swollen ankles of 48 patients were assessed with msk-US. Twenty-two ankles showed sonographic signs of joint synovitis, sixteen ankles presented signs of both joint synovitis and tenosynovitis, and fourteen ankles presented sonographic signs of tenosynovitis only. Overall, tenosynovitis was detected on 27 (56%) out of 48 children with at least a swollen ankle. In 13 patients out of 27 with tenosynovitis (48%), there was no joint synovitis of ankle or foot. Twenty-five patients with tenosynovitis (92%) achieved clinical and radiological remission: seven patients achieved remission of tenosynovitis with methotrexate only, and fifteen patients with biological drugs alone or in combination therapy. Conclusions: We observed that more than half of the patients with ankle swelling presented a tenosynovitis, and about 50% of them did not show sonographic signs of an active joint synovitis. Among patients with tenosynovitis, biological therapy alone or in association with DMARDs showed effectiveness in inducing disease remission.