Background/Purpose:Recently, 26 quality indicators (QI) categorized into 9 domains for childhood‐onset systemic lupus erythematous (cSLE) have been developed based on international consensus and scientific evidence. QI are defined as minimum standards of medical care in support of optimal disease outcomes. The current level at which these QI are followed has not been well documented. Hence, the objective of this study is to assess the current quality of medical care received by patients with cSLE at tertiary pediatric rheumatology centers.Methods:Cross‐sectional data pertaining to the QI were acquired via chart review and analyzed collectively in 290 cSLE patients followed at four tertiary pediatric rheumatology centers—two in the United States and two in Brazil.Results:Adherence to the QI differed by QI domain, ranging from 41 to 100%. The QI domain with the highest adherence 100% was Laboratory Testing at the time of diagnosis, and the lowest domain 41% was Medication Management. The recommended kidney biopsies for newly diagnosed lupus nephritis were done in only 67% of the patients and 85% of the patients received at least one of the recommended vaccinations (Table ). Cardiovascular risks factors were discussed in 86% of cases when patient was 13 years or older. Adherence to the QI differences between countries and insurance status will be presented, supporting that the set of current QI are suitable for international use. Adherence to QI by Domain Quality Indicators by Domain Results Lab testing at diagnosis & screening Obtained diagnostic/confirmatory labs within first two visits 100% Obtained lab surveillance of CBC, renal, LFT every 12 months 85% General prevention Prescribed influenza and/or encapsulated organisms vaccination, unless contraindicated 85% Discussed and documented education on sun avoidance at least once in the medical record (e.g., wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreens whenever outdoors, and avoiding sunbathing) 89% Discussed transition plan to appropriate adult healthcare providers with patient age ≥14 years. 78% Lupus nephritis (LN) and hypertension management Kidney biopsy discussed/ordered/performed if developed proteinuria >500 mg/day, or worsening GFR, or urinary sediment 60% Evaluated by a nephrologist in the last year of care for lupus nephritis (LN) and of hypertension 65% Evaluated by rheumatologist every 3 months in last year if a patient has known LN regardless of disease activity. 96% Received kidney biopsy when diagnosed with LN 67% Class III/IV, treated with immunosuppressive + glucocorticoids within 1 month 92% Angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) or, Angiotensin–converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor were prescribed if ongoing proteinuria >500 mg/day or worsening GFR in last year of care. 96% Check assessments (Kidney function, urine sediment, and proteinuria) every three months. 99% Medication Management If started new meds, discussed risk vs. benefit of therapy 97% Currently prescribed any antimalarial therapy 92% Attempted to taper a dose of steroids not acceptable for chronic use. 89% Attempted to taper and unable to decrease steroid; added/increased steroid sparing agent. 41% Surveillance for medication safety done at regular intervals. 99% Bone Health Received at least one bone mineral density testing DEXA scan 72% Repeat bone mineral density testing if baseline testing outside normal limits (Z score ≤2) 62% Prescribed calcium/vitamin D if a patient is on any steroid therapy. 78% Ophthalmological surveillance Receives eye exams annually while on anti‐malarial therapy 82% Receives eye exams annually while on glucocorticoids 85% Education on cardiovascular risk factors Education on cardiovascular risk factors (smoking, hypertension, high BMI) every 1 year with patient and parent if patient is 13 years or older. 86% Discussed lifestyle modifications (smoking cessation, weight control, exercise) every 2 years with parent and patient 13 years or older. 87% Pregnancy Anti‐SSA, anti‐SB and anti‐phospholipid antibodies have been assessed during pregnancy 100% CNS health Prescribed Immunosuppressive therapy if patient has major neuropsychiatric manifestations in last year of care (Optic neuritis, coma, psychosis … etc.) 94%Conclusion:Based on this initial benchmarking effort, the medical care of patients with cSLE at tertiary pediatric rheumatology centers is very good. Systematic planning and documentation of patient education on lifestyle modifications seems warranted and is expected to improve the self‐management skills of cSLE patients. Furthermore, increased focus on bone health, eye exams annually, and adequate vaccination of cSLE patients are areas to continue to monitor.
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Dec 8, 2017
Suzette O Oyeku + 1
Open Access
