Independent Predictor Of Remission Research Articles

Early Predictors of Remission in Acromegaly Patients after Pure Endoscopic Endonasal Transsphenoidal Surgery

Abstract Objective Surgery is the first-line treatment in acromegaly but it takes months to confirm remission. It is crucial to determine remission early in order to inform the patient and plan further treatment options. We aimed to evaluate the predictors of remission at the early phase after endoscopic endonasal pituitary surgery in acromegaly patients. Methods Fifty-four growth hormone (GH)-adenoma patients operated via pure endoscopic endonasal approach were analyzed in this observational study. We compared the basic clinical, radiological characteristics, and the preoperative and postoperative hormone levels in terms of remission according to current guidelines. Results The surgical remission rate was 61.1%. When the patients were compared according to surgical remission, the age, gender, and immunohistochemical granulation type were found to be nonsignificant, while diabetes mellitus was more common (55.6 vs. 44.4%). The preoperative tumor volume (1.2 ± 0.9 vs. 4.1 ± 4.2 cm3) and postoperative GH and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) levels were higher in the nonremission group (p < 0.05). We defined a number of cut-off values of both GH and IGF-1 levels to predict remission at the postoperative phase. Age standardized regression analyses showed that postoperative day 1 (POD-1) GH levels (odds ratio [OR]: 8.9; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.99–40.0, p = 0.004) and tumor volume (OR: 3.14; 95% CI: 1.09–9.0, p = 0.034) were found to be significant independent predictors for remission. Conclusion We demonstrated that tumor volume and POD-1 GH levels are independent predictors of remission in acromegaly patients operated via the pure endoscopic endonasal technique and may be used as an early marker of remission, and this may lead to taking adjuvant medical therapies early into account to improve prognosis.

Upfront tofacitinib in patients with biological-naïve ulcerative colitis - An Indian multicentric experience.

Tofacitinib is a Janus Kinase inhibitor used for treating moderate to severe ulcerative colitis (UC), mainly after the failure of biological therapy. There is a paucity of data on the outcome of tofacitinib in biological-naïve UC patients. The present study wasaimed at analyzing the safety and efficacy of tofacitinib in biological-naïve Indian patients with UC. The present study retrospectively evaluated consecutive patients with biological-naïve moderate-to-severe active UC from six tertiary care centers in India receiving tofacitinib from September 2020 to September 2022. Clinical remission or response assessment was based on partial Mayo score (PMS) calculated at baseline and weeks eight, 16 and 24. Total 47 cases (57.4% male, median age: 32years) were included. After eightweeks of therapy, 33 (70.2%) achieved clinical remission and eight (17.0%) had a primary failure. The baseline serum albumin at treatment initiation was the only independent predictor of remission at eightweeks (Odds ratio: 11.560, 95%CI: 1.478 - 90.404), but not at 16weeks. By 24weeks, 59.6% (28/47) of the patients were in remission and 29.8% (14/47) had stopped tofacitinib either due to failure (27.6%) or adverse events (AEs) (2.1%). Among the 47 patients, 10 (21.2%) cases developed AEs during follow-up, including two tuberculosis (4.2%), one cytomegalovirus (CMV) colitis (2.1%) and one herpes zoster (2.1%). Four patients with infection required temporary drug discontinuations. One required permanent discontinuation (mania). Upfront tofacitinib is effective in biologic-naïve Indian patients with moderate-severe UC. Further randomized studies are required to validate the study findings.

#3191 RISK OF CKD IN LUPUS NEPHRITIS: CORRELATION WITH DURATION OF REMISSION AND DEVELOPMENT OF RENAL AND EXTRARENAL FLARES

Abstract Background and Aims Achievement of remission and prevention of SLE flares are important therapy targets in patients with SLE in order to avoid the development of systemic chronic damage. In patients with lupus nephritis, the correlation between the duration of remission, the occurrence of SLE flares and the development of CKD is unclear. The aims of this study are to investigate a) the risk of CKD in patients with lupus nephritis b) the correlation between the risk of CKD and the development of renal and extrarenal SLE flares c) the correlation between the risk of CKD and the achievement and duration of remission d) the probability and predictors of renal and extrarenal remission. Method This is a retrospective multicentric study of prospectively collected data. Patients were included if they were >18 years old, they had a histological diagnosis of lupus nephritis and they had at least 5 years of follow up after the diagnosis. CKD was defined as eGFR <60 ml/min/1.73m2 without active urinary sediment for at least 3 months. Remission was defined as normal renal function (serum creatinine <1.0 mg/dl, eGFR >60 ml/min/1.73m2), proteinuria <0.5 g/24h and cSLEDAI = 0 for at least 1 year. The probability of developing flares and achieving remission was estimated using Cox regression analysis. Results CKD developed in 57 patients out of the 303 included in the study (18.8%) during a median follow-up of 14.8 years. During the observation 257 patients achieved remission in a median time of 1.4 (0.7-3.6) years, while 46 patients never achieved it. 115 patients maintained remission until the end of follow-up (9.5 (5.8-14.5) years), while 142 developed a flare after a median time of 3.6 (2.3-5.9) years from the beginning of remission. Altogether, in these 142 patients, 174 SLE flares developed during a median follow-up of 17.8 (13.3-24.2) years: 132 renal flares (20 with serum creatinine increase, 112 with proteinuria) and 42 extra-renal flares. CKD developed in 11 patients with creatinine flares (55%), 19 patients with proteinuric flares (16.9%) and 1 patient with extra-renal flares (2.4%) (p<0.0001). The longer was the duration of remission, the lower the probability that remission was interrupted (Figure 1A) by the development of a SLE flare: the risk of flare reduced from 10% when the remission lasted less than 5 years, to 5% if the remission lasted 5-10 years and to 2% if the remission lasted more than 10 years (Figure 1B). CKD developed in 26 out of the 46 patients who never achieved remission (56%), in 31 patients among those who achieved remission but developed SLE flares (21.8%) and in none among those who maintained remission until the end of the observation (p<0.0001). We found that 3 years of persistent remission significantly reduced the risk of CKD development (Figure 2). At multivariate Cox regression analysis, age >40 years (OR: 1.017; 95% CI: 1.005-1.028; p = 0.004), therapy with hydroxychloroquine (OR: 1.384; 95% CI: 1.109-1.661; p = 0.021) and absence of arterial hypertension (OR: 0.699; 95% CI: 0.425-0.975; p = 0.011) were independent predictors of remission. Conclusion in patients with lupus nephritis, the risk of CKD is significantly higher if renal-extrarenal remission is not achieved or if it is interrupted by SLE flares. In particular, the risk of CKD is very high in patients who develop renal flares with creatinine increase. A longer duration of remission is related to a lower risk of SLE flares and of CKD: in particular, 3 years of remission protect from the development of CKD. Age older than 40 years, therapy with hydroxychloroquine and absence of arterial hypertension are associated with the achievement of remission.

Epstein–Barr Virus Reactivation as a New Predictor of Achieving Remission or Lupus Low Disease Activity State in Patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus with Cutaneous Involvement

Although Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) reactivation has long been associated with the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), many aspects of this relationship remain unclear. Our objective was to investigate the association between EBV reactivation and the achievement of SLE remission and lupus low disease activity state (LLDAS) over a six-month period. Clinical, laboratory, and virological tests (anti-EBV antibodies and EBV DNA) were performed among 51 patients with the active form of SLE on two occasions six months apart. SLE remission and LLDAS achievement were assessed at the end of the follow-up period. Active EBV infection was detected in 45% of active SLE patients at baseline, and 77% transitioned to latent EBV infection at six months (p < 0.001). Multivariate regression revealed a higher titer of anti-EA(D) IgM-Abs and the presence of anti-EA(D) IgM-Abs as independent predictors of remission and LLDAS in SLE patients with mucocutaneous manifestations (p = 0.042) and rash only (p = 0.023), respectively. Since a higher C3 level was an independent predictor of transition to latent EBV infection (p = 0.027), the estimated cut-off value that could identify active SLE patients who will transition to latent EBV infection after six months was ≥0.780 g/L with a sensitivity of 70.6% and a specificity of 75.0% (AUC = 0.756, p = 0.003). EBV reactivation is common in patients with active SLE, and most of them transition to latent EBV infection after six months. Achieving remission and LLDAS in SLE patients with mucocutaneous manifestations can be predicted by a higher titer, whereas in SLE patients who have only a rash, the presence of anti-EA (D) IgM-Abs was a predictor of remission and LLDAS.

The Bright Side of Skin Autofluorescence Determination in Children and Adolescents with Newly Diagnosed Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus: A Potential Predictor of Remission?

Skin autofluorescence (SAF) is a noninvasive method reflecting tissue accumulation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs). We investigated whether, in newly diagnosed children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes (T1D), this surrogate marker of long-term glycemia is associated with markers of the early manifestation phase, residual secretion capacity of the ß-cells, and the occurrence of remission. SAF was measured in 114 children and adolescents (age: 8.0 ± 4.5 years, 44% girls) at the time of T1D diagnosis, and related to HbA1c, C-peptide, diabetic ketoacidosis, and remission. 56 patients were followed up for 1 year. Seventy-four sex- and age-matched healthy individuals served as controls. SAF was higher in the T1D group compared with controls (1.0 ± 0.2 vs. 0.9 ± 0.2, p < 0.001). At the time of diagnosis, SAF correlated with HbA1c (r = 0.285, p = 0.002), was similar in patients with and without ketoacidosis, and was lower in the remitters compared with non-remitters (0.95 ± 0.18 vs. 1.04 ± 0.26, p = 0.027). Unlike HbA1c, SAF was an independent predictor of remission (∆R2 = 0.051, p = 0.004). Former studies consider SAF in diabetic patients as a tool to identify individuals at an increased risk of chronic complications. Here we show that determination of SAF at the time of T1D diagnosis might potentially predict remission, at least in children.

Predictive value of faecal calprotectin in ulcerative colitis – single centre experience

Objectives Faecal calprotectin is an important biomarker used in the evaluation of inflammatory bowel disease. The aim of this study was to establish the value of faecal calprotectin concentration as a predictor of remission in ulcerative colitis and its correlation with laboratory, endoscopic and clinical findings. Methods The single centre study included 126 adult patients with established diagnosis of ulcerative colitis consecutively visiting our Day clinic from March 2017 to March 2019. We measured serum biomarkers- CRP, haemoglobin, leukocytes and platelets. Faecal calprotectin was determined from stool, and endoscopy was performed with calculation of MAYO endoscopic subscore system (MES 0–1: remission, and MES 2–3: active disease). Clinical assessment was done by using Mayo score for ulcerative colitis (clinical Mayo score <2:remission, >5: active disease).The statistical analysis was performed using an univariate and multivariate model of disease remission prediction using logistic regression. Results According to univariate analysis the increase of faecal calprotectin concentration by 10 ug/g is associated with an 8% decrease in probability of disease remission (OR 0.9921, p < .05). In the multivariate analysis, faecal calprotectin remained a significant predictor of disease remission (OR 0.9948, 95% CI 0.9914–0.9982, p = .0028), however, with a significant contribution of C-reactive protein (OR 0.8340, 95% CI 0.7085–0.9818, p = .0292). According to our model the cut off value for faecal calprotectin was 154 ug/g. Conclusion Our results have shown that faecal calprotectin is an independent predictor of remission in UC patients. The results of our study represent real-life data from a single university centre dealing with FC as a prognostic marker in patients with UC. KEY MESSAGES Faecal calprotectin is an independent predictor of remission in UC patients. Recent studies have suggested that calprotectin correlates well with endoscopic activity of inflammation but correlation of faecal calprotectin in a phase of remission hasn’t been evaluated yet. We have found that other inflammatory biomarkers do not correlate well with either endoscopic or clinical activity in ulcerative colitis.

Early improvement in bowel wall thickness on transperineal ultrasonography predicts treatment success in active ulcerative colitis.

Bowel ultrasonography is a non-invasive imaging tool that can repeatedly monitor ulcerative colitis (UC) activity. This study aimed to determine whether early transabdominal or transperineal ultrasonography changes can predict subsequent clinical response to induction therapy in patients with UC. This single-centre prospective study explored ultrasonographic predictors for clinical remission (patient-reported outcome-2≤1 with no rectal bleeding subscore) at week 8 in patients with active UC who underwent induction therapy, in comparison with faecal calprotectin and C-reactive protein (measured at baseline, week 1 and week 8). Predictive factors were assessed using multivariable regression models and receiver-operating-characteristic curve analysis. A total of 100 patients were analysed, of which 54 achieved remission at week 8. Baseline biomarker and ultrasonographic-parameter values were not predictive of remission. Contrastingly, change from baseline to week 1 in rectal bowel wall thickness measured using transperineal ultrasonography was an independent predictor of remission by week 8 (adjusted odds ratio is associated with a 1-mm decrease: 1.90 [95% confidence interval, 1.22-2.95]). In a subgroup analysis of the patients who did not achieve remission in 1week, the predictive value of change in rectal bowel wall thickness remained high (AUC=0.77 [95% confidence interval, 0.61-0.88]). Improvement in rectal bowel wall thickness measured using transperineal ultrasonography at week 1 predicts treatment success and potentially facilitates decision making during the early course of induction therapy in UC.

P497 Early improvement in bowel wall thickness on transperineal ultrasonography predicts treatment success in active ulcerative colitis

Abstract Background Bowel ultrasonography is a non-invasive imaging tool that can repeatedly monitor the activity of ulcerative colitis (UC). This study aimed to determine whether early changes in bowel ultrasonographic findings could predict subsequent clinical response to induction treatment in patients with ulcerative colitis. Methods This single-center prospective study compared ultrasonographic findings with fecal calprotectin, and C-reactive protein (measured at baseline, week 1, and week 8) in predicting remission (patient-reported outcome-2 ≤ 1 with no rectal bleeding subscore) at week 8 in active UC patients who initiated the remission-induction treatments. Predictive factors were assessed using multivariate regression models and a receiver operating curve analysis. Results A total of 100 patients were analysed, of which 54 achieved remission at week 8. Baseline values of biomarkers, and ultrasonographic parameters were not predictive of remission. Bowel wall thickness and bowel wall flow at baseline and week 1 were also not sufficiently predictive. By contrast, changes from baseline to week 1 in bowel wall thickness in the rectum measured by transperineal ultrasonography was an independent predictor of remission by week 8 (adjusted odds ratio associated with 1 mm decrease: 1.90 (95% confidence interval 1.22–2.95)). Predictive value of changes in rectal bowel wall thickness remained high for clinical improvement even among patients who did not achieve remission in 1 week. Conclusion Improvement in rectal bowel wall thickness measured by transperineal ultrasonography at week 1 predicts treatment success and thus would help decision making during the early course of induction treatment in UC.

Predictors of Remission in Lupus Nephritis Pati

Background: Lupus nephritis (LN) is a common and serious manifestation of SLE, occurring in more than half of patients with SLE during their course of illness, in 10–25% of such patients, kidney disorder progresses to end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Objective: To determine the predictors of remission in patients with biopsy-proven lupus nephritis, and to assess the long-term renal remission rate in our lupus nephritis patients. Patients and Methods: This is a retrospective observational study carried out at the Rheumatology and Nephrology Units, Internal Medicine Department, Menoufia and Mansoura Universities Hospitals, Egypt for a 1-year duration between 1 June 2019 and 1 June 2020. A total of 60 patients with biopsy-proven LN were studied. Results: In the current study, after six months of follow-up, about two-thirds of patients achieved remission. The urinary protein creatinine ratio (UPCR) of 4.9 g/g, systemic lupus erythematosus disease activity index (SLEDAI) of 20 and Hb of 8.8 g/dl at the third month are valuable for predicting remission at the sixth month in active lupus nephritis. On multivariate analysis, serum creatinine (SCr) at the time of diagnosis is the only independent predictor of remission (complete or partial) at 6 months. According to the receiver operating characteristic curve, the cut-off value of SCr ≤ 2.9 mg/dL with 100% specificity and 98 % sensitivity was a predictor for renal remission. Conclusion:The UPCR of 4.9 g/g, SLEDAI of 20 and Hb of 8.8 g/dl at the third month are valuable for predicting remission at the sixth month in active lupus nephritis. Serum creatinine level ≤2.9 mg/dL at the time of diagnosis was the only independent predictor of complete remission at 6 months.

What influences patients' opinion of remission and low disease activity in psoriatic arthritis? Principal component analysis of an international study.

In PsA, the treatment objective is remission or low disease activity (LDA), but patients' perception of remission is poorly studied. This analysis aimed to identify factors associated with patient-defined remission. This analysis uses ReFlaP data, an international PsA study, with remission defined as 'At this time, is your psoriatic arthritis in remission, if this means: you feel your disease is as good as gone?'. Variables associated with, first, patient-defined remission and, second, LDA were identified using multivariable logistic regression and principal component analysis (PCA) to explore correlated variables. Of 424 patients (50.2% male, mean age 52 years) with established disease, 94 (22.2%) reported themselves as being in remission and 191 (45.0%) as LDA alone. In multivariable analysis pain, psoriasis, impact of disease, physician opinion of symptoms from joint damage and Groll comorbidity index were independent predictors of remission. For LDA, results were similar. Using PCA, variance explained was 74% by five components for men and 80% by six components for women. The key component from PCA for remission was, for both sex, disease impact (Psoriatic Arthritis Impact of Disease, pain and HAQ) explaining 22.2-27.5% of variance. Other factors included musculoskeletal disease activity, chronicity/joint damage, psoriasis, enthesitis and CRP. For LDA, similar factors were identified but the variance explained was lower (64-68%). Many factors impact on patients' opinion of remission, dominated by disease impact. Disease activity in multiple domains, chronicity/age, comorbidities and symptoms due to other conditions contribute to a robust model highlighting that patient-defined remission is multifaceted. Clinicaltrials.gov, http://clinicaltrials.gov, NCT03119805.

P0476THE ABSENCE OF REMISSION PREDICTS MORTALITY IN RAPIDLY PROGRESSIVE GLOMERULONEPHRITIS

Abstract Background and Aims Rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis (RPGN) encompasses a group of diseases with a common histology in which the absence of treatment progress to end-stage renal disease. Induction treatment includes the use of immunosuppressants, and in certain cases, plasmapheresis. The final objective of this study was to determine the long-term prognosis of the RPGN. Method A retrospective observational study was conducted, including patients diagnosed with RPGN between 2004 and 2019. Baseline epidemiological data and comorbidities were collected, as well as renal function and treatment at the time of diagnosis. During the follow up [median of 42 (5-101 months)], we analyzed the evolution of renal function, mortality and associated factors. Results Forty-three patients (65% women) were included, with a mean age of 70 ± 16 years. At the time of diagnosis, mean creatinine was 4.8 ± 2.6 mg/dl, proteinuria 1094 ± 856 mg/day and 37 patients (86%) presented hematuria Thirty-one patients (72%) presented positivity for antibodies against the neutrophil cytoplasm, 7 (16%) for antibodies against the glomerular basement membrane and 5 (12%) for both. Regarding the induction treatment, 41 patients received cyclophosphamide and corticoids and two patients received rituximab. Seventeen (31%) plasmapheresis were performed with a median of 7 (6-7 sessions). At 6 months, 55% of the patients presented remission (15 patients complete remission and 8 patients partial remission). The median creatinine was 1.9 (1.2-3.1) mg/dl and the proteinuria was 380 (85 -542) mg/day (p&amp;lt;0.0001 compared to the initial data). At that time, 21% (9) of the patients needed dialysis. Associated factors with the absence of remission were diabetes mellitus (p= 0.016), creatinine at diagnosis (p= 0.002) and the need for hemodialysis at admission (p&amp;lt;0.0001). The only independent predictor of remission was initial creatinine (HR 0.5 [0.3-0.9], p= 0.048). During follow up, renal function improved with a median of creatinine at 18 months of 1.6 (1.2 – 2.9) mg/dl and 1.5 (0.8-2.4) mg/dl at the end. Twelve (28%) patients died during follow up. Associated factors with mortality were age (p=0.02), the need for hemodialysis (p=0.015) and the absence of remission at 6 months (p=0.012) (figure 1). An adjusted model using Cox regression demonstrated that the absence of remission was an independent predictor of mortality (HR 0.2 [0.5-0.8], p= 0.032). Conclusion Initial renal function and 6-month remission predicts mortality in the RPGN.

Role of age in presentation, response to therapy and outcome of autoimmune hepatitis

BackgroundFew studies with diverging results and a small sample size have compared autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) in the elderly to younger patients.AimTo unbiasedly investigate the role of age in behaviour and treatment outcome of AIH.MethodsAll patients with probable or definite AIH type 1 in four tertiary academic centres were included in this retrospective—and since 2006 prospective—cohort study. Influence of age on presentation, remission and outcome of AIH were investigated.Results359 patients were included. Presence of cirrhosis at AIH diagnosis around 30% was independent of age. ALAT was higher at age 30–60 years on AIH diagnosis, and above age 60 there were less acute onset, less jaundice and more concurrent autoimmune disease. Remission was reached in 80.2%, incomplete remission in 18.7%, only 1.1% (all aged 50–65) was treatment-refractory. Age was not an independent predictor of remission, while cirrhosis was. Above age 45 there was more diabetes, above age 60 more loss of remission. Rate of progression to cirrhosis was 10% in the 10 years after diagnosis and unrelated to age at AIH diagnosis. With onset below age 30, there was more development of decompensated cirrhosis over time. With higher age at AIH diagnosis there was a lower survival free of liver-related death or liver transplantation.ConclusionsAIH presents at all ages. Age influences features at diagnosis, but not response to treatment, while survival without liver-related death or liver transplantation decreases with higher age at diagnosis.

Predictors of remission during acute treatment of first-episode schizophrenia patients involuntarily hospitalized and treated with algorithm-based pharmacotherapy: Secondary analysis of an observational study.

Early clinical response predicts symptomatic remission and recovery in the maintenance treatment phase of first-episode schizophrenia (FES). However, little is known about predictors of symptomatic remission during acute treatment of severely ill patients with FES. Here, we conducted a secondary analysis of our retrospective observational study, which examined response, remission and treatment-resistance rates in seriously ill patients with FES spectrum disorders involuntarily hospitalized and treated with algorithm-based pharmacotherapy. We performed a retrospective chart review of 131 involuntarily admitted patients with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder. Our algorithm aimed to delay olanzapine treatment, standardize medications and suggest initiation of clozapine after failure of third-line antipsychotic treatment. The duration of each adequate antipsychotic treatment at an optimal dosage was 4 weeks or more. Remission was defined using the symptom-severity component of consensus remission criteria. A logistic regression model was applied to identify significant predictors of remission at discharge. Overall, 74 patients (56%) were in remission at discharge. Non-remitters were hampered from becoming remitters mainly by the presence of negative symptoms. There were no differences in first-line antipsychotics, dosage of antipsychotics at time of response and adherence rates to algorithm-based pharmacotherapy between remitters and non-remitters. Shorter duration of untreated psychosis, favourable early response and less negative symptoms at baseline were identified as independent predictors of remission at discharge. The importance of early intervention and specific and adequate treatments of negative symptoms is highlighted.

High rate of improvement in serum matrix metalloproteinase-3 levels at 4 weeks predicts remission at 52 weeks in RA patients treated with adalimumab

Objective: This study aimed to determine whether serum matrix metalloproteinase-3 (MMP-3) levels can predict remission in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients treated with adalimumab (ADA).Methods: Subjects were 114 RA patients continuously treated with ADA for 52 weeks. Predictive factors at baseline and 4 weeks after initiation of ADA therapy for the achievement of remission (28-point count Disease Activity Score-CRP (DAS28-CRP) < 2.3) at 52 weeks were evaluated by multivariate logistic regression analysis.Results: DAS28-CRP at 4 weeks (odds ratio (OR) 0.614, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.382–0.988) and improvement in serum MMP-3 levels at 4 weeks (OR 1.057, 95% CI 1.002–1.032) were independent predictors of remission at 52 weeks. The best cut-off level of DAS28-CRP and improvement in serum MMP-3 levels at 4 weeks for predicting remission at 52 weeks was 3.73 (sensitivity: 90%, specificity: 50%, area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC): 62%) and 39.93% (sensitivity: 47%, specificity: 83%, AUC: 64%), respectively.Conclusion: Our findings suggest that a high rate of improvement in serum MMP-3 levels at 4 weeks after initiation of ADA therapy can predict remission at 52 weeks in RA patients.

Monounsaturated fatty acids might be key factors in the Mediterranean diet that suppress rheumatoid arthritis disease activity: The TOMORROW study

The Mediterranean diet is reportedly effective in suppressing disease activity in rheumatoid arthritis (RA), but the key elements responsible for this effect remain unknown. The presented study therefore aimed to identify such elements. This study included 208 consecutive patients with RA (RA group) and 205 age- and sex-matched healthy volunteers (controls) from the prospective "TOMORROW" cohort studythat has been ongoing since 2010 were included in this study. Food and nutrient intake was assessed using the brief self-administered diet history questionnaire (BDHQ), Mediterranean diet scores were calculated based on intake by controls and disease activity was determined from disease activity scores in 28 joints anderythrocyte sedimentation rates (DAS28-ESR). Intake of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) was significantly lower in the RA, than in the control group (P=0.003) and the ratio of consumed monounsaturated to saturated fatty acid (MUFA/SFA) significantly differed within the RA group after being sub-classified according to DAS28-ESR. Moreover, DAS28-ESR significantly correlated with MUFA/SFA intake after age adjustment (R=-0.228, P<0.01). Logistic regression analysis selected high MUFA intake as an independent predictor of remission in the RA group with borderline boundary significance (odds ratio, 1.97; 95% CI, 0.98-3.98; P=0.057). Changes in DAS28-ESR between 2010 and 2011 significantly correlated with MUFA/SFA intake after age adjustment (R=0.180, P=0.01). Daily MUFA intake, a component of the Mediterranean diet score, might suppress disease activity in RA patients.

Early initiation of immunosuppressive treatment in membranous nephropathy patients.

Suggestion for the management of idiopathic membranous nephropathy (IMN) includes 6 months of observation, followed with steroid plus alkylating agent. However, delayed immunosuppression exposes the kidneys to persistent damage. This study aimed to examine the benefit of early immunosuppression in IMN patients. A retrospective study was performed. From 1993 to 2013, 161 IMN patients were enrolled. Patients receiving immunosuppression within 6 months after diagnosis were classified as initial-treatment group, whereas other patients as initial-no-treatment group. The clinical outcomes and complication were examined. Patients in the initial-treatment group had lower serum albumin concentration, less diabetes, and were younger. Steroid monotherapy is the main immunosuppression (64.5%) in this group. The initial-treatment group had a higher complete and partial remission rate than the initial-no-treatment group 6 months (52.9% vs. 35.0%, p=0.05) and 12 months (71.1% vs. 45.0%, p=0.003) after diagnosis. A similar result was seen between initial-steroid monotherapy and initial-no-treatment patients. Early immunosuppression is an independent predictor of remission within 1 year [hazard ratio (HR)=2.09; 95% confidence interval (CI)=1.25-3.49; p=0.005] and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) decline over 50% during the follow-up. (HR=0.33; 95% CI=0.13-0.86; p=0.02). The initial-treatment group also had a low frequency of eGFR decline over 50% (p=0.001) and low combined end-stage renal disease/mortality (p=0.001) compared with the initial-no-treatment group, but without more immunosuppression-related complication. In contrast to Western countries, early immunosuppression (even steroid monotherapy) in our patients is associated with better remission in the 1st year and renal preserve. Further randomized controlled trials are needed to clarify the benefit of early immunosuppression in IMN patients, especially with oriental ethnic background.

Clinical Predictors of Response to Prednisone Plus Cyclophosphamide in Patients with Idiopathic Membranous Nephropathy

Background: Complete remission (CR) and partial remission (PR) are beneficial to the long-term outcome of patients with idiopathic membranous nephropathy (iMN). However, we are lacking in studies that evaluate the clinical predictors of response to treatment with prednisone plus cyclophosphamide (CP). The objectives of the study are to identify clinical factors that could predict clinical remission or relapse in patients with iMN who were treated with prednisone plus i.v. CP therapy. Methods: This retrospective study recruited a total of 102 eligible patients diagnosed with biopsy-proven iMN between January 2010 and December 2013 in our center. All subjects were treated with prednisone plus i.v. CP for at least 6 months. Primary outcome was remission, including both CR and PR. Demographic data and clinical data at baseline and month 3 of treatment with CP were assessed. Results: The proportion of patients with remission (both CR and PR) was 82.4%, over an average follow-up duration of 15 (10-27.5) months. Fifty-two of them experienced a CR. Baseline proteinuria and the reduction of proteinuria at month 3 of CP treatment were independent predictors of remission (p < 0.05) and CR (p < 0.05). In addition, the presence of a PR versus a CR was associated with the risk of relapse (hazards ratio 21.521, 95% CI 4.534-102.150, p < 0.001). Conclusions: Patients with low proteinuria at baseline and high reduction of proteinuria at month 3 of treatment with CP were more likely to achieve remission and CR. The presence of only a PR may act as a useful predictor of relapse after completion of CP therapy.

Bariatric Surgery for Patients With Early-Onset vs Late-Onset Type 2 Diabetes

The prevalence of early-onset type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), which responds poorly to medical treatment, is increasing. Bariatric surgery has been well recognized for its effectiveness in the remission of T2DM, but its effectiveness and durability in the remission of early-onset T2DM has not yet been explored. To compare the short- and long-term outcomes of bariatric surgery with a specific focus on the rate of remission of T2DM in patients with early-onset (age <40 years) and late-onset (age ≥40 years) T2DM. In this cohort study, 558 Taiwanese patients (339 with early-onset T2DM and 219 with late-onset T2DM) with a body mass index (calculated as weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared) above 25 underwent bariatric surgery to ameliorate T2DM between January 1, 2007, and December 31, 2013. Patients were followed up for at least 1 year. Preoperative, perioperative, and postoperative clinical and laboratory data were prospectively collected and compared between the 2 groups. Rate of remission of T2DM (hemoglobin A1C <6.0% without antiglycemic medication) was the primary outcome measure. Of the 558 patients (345 women) in the study, mean (SD) ages were 33.5 (7.5) for those with early-onset T2DM and 50.6 (6.5) with late onset T2DM. Those with early-onset T2DM had higher mean (SD) preoperative BMI and hemoglobin A1C values (39.4 [8.5] and 8.7% [3.8%] of total hemoglobin [to convert hemoglobin to a proportion of total hemoglobin, multiply by 0.01], respectively) than did patients with late-onset T2DM (36.7 [7.5] and 8.2% [1.6%], respectively). Distribution of surgical procedures and major complications were similar between the 2 groups. At 1 year, patients with early-onset T2DM achieved greater weight loss than those with late-onset T2DM, although the difference was not statistically significant. A higher rate of complete remission of T2DM was observed in patients with early-onset T2DM than in those with late-onset disease (193 [56.9%] vs 110 [50.2%]; P = .02). At 5 years, patients with early-onset T2DM still maintained a higher rate of weight loss (mean [SD], 30.4% [11.8%] vs 21.6% [11.7%]; P = .002) and higher rate of remission (47 of 72 [65.3%] vs 26 of 48 [54.2%]; P = .04) than did those with late-onset disease. Age at bariatric surgery, duration of T2DM, and preoperative C-peptide level were independent predictors of remission. The remission rate was directly related to extent of weight loss. Multivariate analysis confirmed the higher rate of remission in the group with early-onset T2DM. This article describes the largest long-term study examining bariatric surgery for patients with early-onset T2DM. Bariatric surgery may achieve better and more long-lasting glycemic control in select patients with early-onset T2DM than in those with late-onset T2DM.

Predictors of sustained drug-free diabetes remission over 48 weeks following short-term intensive insulin therapy in early type 2 diabetes

ObjectiveIn early type 2 diabetes (T2DM), short-term intensive insulin therapy (IIT) for 2–4 weeks can decrease insulin resistance, reduce glucagonemia, improve β-cell function, and even induce a remission of diabetes...

P-012 YI Decisions to Dose Optimize Infliximab Using Pre-adjustment Therapeutic Drug Monitoring Result in Higher Trough Concentrations and Improved Endoscopic Outcomes

Increasingly, adequate infliximab (IFX) dosing is associated with improved outcomes in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Individualized therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) to guide dose adjustment is cost-effective may offer clinical improvement. However, the effect of TDM-guided dose escalation on subsequent endoscopic outcomes remains unclear. We retrospectively evaluated the impact of TDM-driven dose adjustment on endoscopic remission. Data from primary responders to IFX who underwent dose escalation between 2008 and 2014 (interval reduction, dose increase or both) were reviewed. Patients with documented active endoscopic disease (ileal or colonic) <3 months prior to dose adjustment were included. 2 cohorts were examined: those with TDM-based decision to escalate and those with empiric decision. Outcomes recorded at median 6 months post- adjustment included endoscopic remission (Mayo <1, SES-CD <3), CRP, clinical remission and IBD-specific healthcare utilization (emergency visits, hospitalizations, steroid use, flares). TDM was performed using a homogenous mobility shift assay. Post-adjustment IFX and ATI concentration most discriminant for endoscopic remission were determined by receiver operating characteristic curves. A multivariable regression model evaluated these factors as independent predictors of remission. Three hundred twelve dose optimization events were examined (149 TDM –based decision, 163 empiric). Patient demographics were not significantly different between groups apart from CRP ([mean ± SE] TDM: 23 ± 1.2; non-TDM: 11 ± 0.8 mg/L, P < 0.01). 63% of TDM group attained endoscopic remission compared to 48% non-TDM group (P < 0.05). 69% of the TDM group had significant clinical response compared to 57% non-TDM (P < 0.01) and also had fewer hospitalizations including ED visits (22% TDM versus 35% non-TDM group, P = 0.025). UC patients had a shorter time to optimization from first infusion (10 versus 20 months, P < 0.0001) and in the TDM group, had higher rates of endoscopic healing (64% compared to 46% CD) though this was not statistically significant. Median IFX trough levels increased significantly after TDM- based adjustment (from 1.5(pre) to 11 μg/mL (post); P < 0.0001) and were significantly higher than post-adjustment levels available in the empiric cohort (6.5 μg/mL, P = 0.015). Post-adjustment infliximab concentration of >4.5 μg/mL (area under the curve (AUC) = 0.8; 95% CI 0.71 to 0.88) and ATI concentration of <2.3 U/mL (AUC = 0.70; 95% CI 0.63 to 0.81) were associated with endoscopic remission. Multivariable analysis showed that IFX concentration (OR 1.2; [95% CI 1.1–1.3]; P < 0.0001) remained an independent predictor of endoscopic remission. TDM -guided dose adjustment is associated with higher post-adjustment trough levels, fewer ATI and in turn, higher endoscopic remission rates and fewer relapses.