Autoinflammatory diseases
B1 Periodic fever, aphthous stomatitis, pharyngitis, and adenopathy syndrome (PFAPA)
in a 17 years old girl – case report
Erato Atsali1, Dimitra Kassara2, Pelagia Katsimbri2, Sorina Boiu1, Dimitrios T. Boumpas2,
Vana Papaevangelou1
1Pediatric Rheumatology Unit,3RD Department of Pediatrics, National and Kapodestrian
University of Athens, Medical School, Athens, Greece; 2Joint Rheumatology Program,4TH
Department of Medicine, National and Kapodestrian University of Athens, Medical School,
Athens, Greece
Correspondence: Erato Atsali
Introduction: Periodic fever, aphthous stomatitis, pharyngitis, and cervical adenopathy
(PFAPA) syndrome is a non Mendelian autoinflammatory disorder until now considered
to be specifically limited to paediatric age. However there is recently mounting evidence
that children older than 5 years and adults may present with the typical picture of
PFAPA syndrome.
Objectives: We report the case of a 17,5 years old girl presenting with recurrent
episodes of fever starting at the age of 16.
Methods: A 17,5 years old girl was referred to our department due to recurrent episodes
of fever lasting 3–4 days and starting 1,5 year ago. Body temperature usually increased
up to 40.5∘C. Fever was accompanied by exudative pharyngitis, cervical lympadenopathy,
severe malaise and myalgias/artralgias. Oral apthosis was present in some of the episodes.
There was no other sign of upper respiratory tract infection. Headache and fatigue
were evident 2–3 days before each flare.The episodes recurred very regularly showing
an almost clockwork periodicity (every 35–40 days). The girl was completely asymptomatic
between flares with normal growth and development. The girl’s mother suffered from
similar episodes of exudative pharyngitis until approximately the age of 12.
Results: Laboratory exams during febrile attacks showed mild leukocytosis with prominence
of neutrophils and a significant increase of monocytes. Erythrocyte sedimentation
rate,C-reactive protein and Serum Amyloid A were also raised. Serum immunoglobulin
levels (including IgD) were normal. During episodes all the cultures were negative.Inflammatory
markers were completely normal between attacks.The girl was diagnosed with PFAPA syndrome
based on Marshall criteria revised by Thomas et al.,neglecting the item of disease
onset before the age of five. Genetic testing for FMF is pending. Tonsillectomy was
not proposed as a therapeutic option because it seems not to be effective in adults,
based on current literature. A single dose of prednisone (1 mg/kg) given a few hours
after the onset of fever dramatically abrupted fever attack in a few hours, supporting
the diagnosis of PFAPA.The girl did not experience a free interval shortening after
steroid administration.
Conclusion: Once thought to be exclusive of the pediatric age, it is nowadays clear
that PFAPA syndrome may have its onset in adulthood. Clinical features of PFAPA adults
are overlapping with those of PFAPA children.To date, it is not known whether adults
with PFAPA syndrome may spontaneously undergo clinical remission, and tonsillectomy
does not seem to be a valid option in these patients. The description of PFAPA syndrome
in adults should increase awareness among clinicians and suggests that the age criterion
(i.e., age at onset less than 5 years) should not be considered mandatory for diagnosis
Disclosure of Interest
None Declared
Disease outcome
B2 Case of paraneoplastic arthritis in child
Olena A. Oshlyanska, Ludmila I. Omelchenko, Tatiana A. Ljudvik
Department of connective tissue disorders in children, State Institute of Pediatrics,
Obstetrics and Gynecology, Academy of Medical Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine
Correspondence: Olena A. Oshlyanska
Introduction: Differential diagnosis in children’s articular syndrome presents difficulties
in actual practice. According to the clinical register of the connective tissue separation
diseases in children more than 20% of cases with a primary diagnosis of JIA are overdiagnosis.
Special attention should be paid to arthritis in neoplastic processes, they are characterized
by the injury of one joint with severe pain syndrome and hematological changes.
Objectives: A description of the case of paraneoplastic arthritis.
Methods: Analysis of medical history
Results: Child Ts., A boy of 14 years. Anamnesis is not burdensome. For 3 months before
hospitalization - an acute intestinal infection, after 3 weeks - pain and swelling
of the right knee joint, subfebrilititis, NSAID therapy 1 month without effect. On
examination, swelling without local hyperthermia of the right knee joint with minimal
restriction of flexion, “crunching” during movement, other joints are intact. Dryness
of the skin on the back surface of the hands, moderate difficulty in nasal breathing.
At physical examination no changes in internal organs revealed. At examination, the
general blood test without pathological changes, ESR 10 mm/h, CRP negative. RF, ANA,
APLAT, aDNA - not detected, serological tests for pseudotuberculosis, iersiniosis,
mycoplasmal and chlamydial infections are negative, ASLO is normal. Elevated CIC 0.059 g/l,
IgE in serum (934 ng/ml), positive skin prik test for histamine, eosinophilia in the
nazocytogram and peripheral blood. ECG, ultrasound examination - without changes.
Ultrasound of the knee joint: exudative synovitis. Ultrasound of the thyroid gland:
left-sided nodular goiter (node 30x15x17x5.8 mm). T3, T4, TSH, ATPO are normal. A
thin needle aspiration needle biopsy of the thyroid gland was performed. Cytological
study: pronounced proliferation and atypia of thyroid epithelium. Left-sided hemithyroidectomy
was performed. By the conclusion of a biopsy “papillary carcinoma of the thyroid gland”.
The child was examined 1.5 months after the operation. Clinical manifestations of
arthritis of knee joints have not been revealed. NSAIDs are canceled, receiving substitution
therapy with thyroxine. There was swelling of the face and a one-sided enlargement
of the cervical lymph nodes, with their biopsy atypical cells that do not morphologically
correspond to the cells of the thyroid gland identified. The CT of the whole organism
was carried out - the primary localization of the tumor was not established. The patient
is currently observed at the oncologist.
Conclusion: In some cases, arthritis develops earlier than the tumor process is diagnosed.
The clinician should pay attention to the lack of typical clinical and laboratory
signs characteristic of JIA and resistance to anti-inflammatory therapy. Manifestations
of allergization, like arthritis, may be signs of a rheumatological paraneoplastic
syndrome.
Disclosure of Interest
None Declared
Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (oligo, poly, psoriatic)
B3 A patient with three diagnoses? juvenile idiopathic arthritis, chronic recurrent
multifocal osteomyelitis and atypical subacute Moraxella osloensis infection
Katerina Bouchalova1,2,3, Marcel Schüller1, Jana Franova1, Jarmila Skotakova4, Marie
Macku1
1Pediatric Rheumatology Unit, Pediatric Department, University Hospital Brno, Brno,
Czech Republic; 2Department of Pediatrics, Palacky University, Olomouc, Olomouc, Czech
Republic; 3Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Palacky University,
Olomouc, Olomouc, Czech Republic; 4Pediatric Radiology Department, University Hospital
Brno, Brno, Czech Republic
Correspondence: Katerina Bouchalova
Introduction: Chronic recurrent multifocal osteomyelitis (CRMO) as a rare autoinflammatory
disorder, affecting predominantly girls, is sometimes associated with arthritis.
Objectives: Report of a patient with subsequent rheumatology diagnoses.
Methods: A case report of a 10-year-old girl with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA)
with onset at the age of 1 year and 8 months, in remission on therapy (etanercept + methotrexate)
presenting with new clinical problems leading to subsequent diagnoses.
Results: At the age of 10 years, the girl presented with backpain lasting 2 weeks,
swelling localized to thoracic region, elevated ESR, CRP, and anemia. Whole body MRI
revealed Th8/Th9 compressive fracture and multifocal bone lesions. Clindamycine and
Jewett corset were recommended with discontinuation of immunosuppressive therapies.
Lesional biopsy, bone marrow aspiration and PET-CT did not show malignancy. When intermittent
fever appeared, blood culture revealed Moraxella osloensis (confirmed by PCR) resistant
to clindamycine and antibiotics were changed and administered up to 14.5 weeks in
total. Despite the slow clinical improvement the interdisciplinary discussions led
to initiation of bisphosphonate therapy. On intravenous pamidronate administered every
3 months (now after the third course), her clinical status as well as imaging findings
are steadily improving, with no signs of arthritis.
Conclusion: Discussion: The following questions arise: Was it “only” an atypical infection
in an immunocompromised patient with JIA or does the patient suffer from three rare
diseases (JIA, subacute osteomyelitis by Moraxella osloensis, and CRMO)?
Parents agreed with presentation of patient’case, including photodocumentation.
Disclosure of Interest
None Declared
B4 Foot and ankle pathologies in juvenile idiopathic arthritis: a narrative review
Antoni Fellas1, Fiona Hawke1, Derek Santos2, Andrea Coda1
1School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle,
Newcastle, Australia; 2School of Health Sciences, Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh,
United Kingdom
Correspondence: Antoni Fellas
Introduction: Foot and ankle pathologies are common in juvenile idiopathic arthritis
(JIA) and can cause physical disability and reduce quality of life (1). Early detection
and evidence-based treatment of these symptomatic pathologies are an important first
step in preventing ongoing pain and long-term disabilities in children with JIA.
Objectives: To search the literature and provide an update on the types of foot and
ankle pathologies reported in children with JIA.
Methods: MEDLINE (Ovid) was searched for relevant papers published in English with
preference given to papers published in the last 10 years, and older highly regarded
cited papers.
Results: Foot and ankle pathologies are highly prevalent in JIA (1–3). Foot and ankle
pathologies in JIA include joint disease, tenosynovitis, muscle atrophy, enthesitis,
digital deformities and biomechanical abnormalities (1–9). One study surveying foot
problems found that in a cohort of 30 children with JIA, 63% reported some level of
foot-related impairment and 60% with foot-related participation restriction (1). This
review outlines and describes each of these foot and ankle pathologies.
Joint disease – Joint disease in JIA may include joint swelling, tenderness, pain,
warmth and stiffness (4). These symptoms typically occur as a result of synovitis
(4) and may be involved in 35-58% of cases (2, 3, 5, 10).
Tenosynovitis – inflammation of the tendon sheath in JIA commonly affects the tibialis
posterior and peroneal tendons (5).
Muscle atrophy – Plantar-flexor muscle atrophy may be observed in children with JIA.
This may be more noticeable when there is active joint disease in the ankle (6, 7).
A reduction of plantar-flexion strength at the ankle may have implications in the
propulsive phase of the gait, by delaying heel lift and increasing plantar pressures
on the rear and midfoot.
Enthesitis – Inflammation at the site of insertion of a tendon or ligament to the
bone is common at the Achilles tendon and the medial tubercle of the calcaneus. These
are typically seen in male patients with the enthesitis-related subtype of JIA (4).
One recent study with 26 JIA participants (average age of 11.6 years) reported a prevalence
of 45% for the Achilles tendon and 20% for the plantar fascia (8). The mean recorded
pain on a 100 mm visual analogue scale was 48 mm (8). Quality of life was not measured
in this study; however, this level of pain may reduce physical and social well-being.
Digital deformities – Inflammation in the forefoot may lead to digital deformities
such as clawed toes in children and adolescents with JIA. One study reported a prevalence
of 17% in 144 participants (average age = 10.6) with JIA and hallux abducto valgus
(2). Children with polyarticular subtype of JIA and those with a longer duration of
disease were more likely to have hallux abducto valgus (2).
Biomechanical abnormalities – Biomechanical abnormalities of the foot and ankle are
associated with prolonged synovitis (3). Synovitis can disrupt normal articulation
of the rear and midfoot joints, and can contribute to an excessively pronated foot
and abnormal plantar pressures (9). One study found that the prevalence of excessively
pronated rear and midfoot joints in 144 JIA participants, was 73% and 72% respectively
(2).
Conclusion: A range of foot and ankle pathologies are highly prevalent in JIA and
contribute to physical morbidity. Allied health professionals may be involved as part
of the paediatric rheumatology multidisciplinary team to assist in the early detection
and management of these lower limb pathologies. Further research is required to attain
accurate prevalence rates and the long-term implications that these foot and ankle
conditions may have on a child or adolescent with JIA.
References
1. Hendry G, Gardner-Medwin J, Watt GF, Woodburn J. A survey of foot problems in juvenile
idiopathic arthritis. Musculoskelet. 2008;6(4):221–32.
2. Spraul G, Koenning G. A descriptive study of foot problems in children with juvenile
rheumatoid arthritis (JRA). Arthritis Care Res. 1994;7(3):144–50.
3. Ferrari J. A review of the foot deformities seen in juvenile chronic arthritis.
The Foot. 1998;8(4):193–6.
4. Ravelli A, Martini A. Juvenile idiopathic arthritis. The Lancet. 2007;369(9563):767–78.
5. Javadi S, Kan JH, Orth RC, DeGuzman M. Wrist and ankle MRI of patients with juvenile
idiopathic arthritis: identification of unsuspected multicompartmental tenosynovitis
and arthritis. AJR Am J Roentgenol. 2014;202(2):413–7.
6. Saarinen J, Lehtonen K, Malkia E, Lahdenne P. Lower extremity isometric strength
in children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis. Clin Exp Rheumatol. 2008;26(5):947–53.
7. Brostrom E, Nordlund MM, Cresswell AG. Plantar- and dorsiflexor strength in prepubertal
girls with juvenile idiopathic arthritis. Arch Phys Med Rehabil. 2004;85(8):1224–30.
8. Jousse‐Joulin S, Breton S, Cangemi C, Fenoll B, Bressolette L, De Parscau L, et
al. Ultrasonography for detecting enthesitis in juvenile idiopathic arthritis. Arthritis
Care Res. 2011;63(6):849–55.
9. Haber L, Womack E, Zimmerman C, Hughes J. Clinical manifestations and treatment
of the pediatric rheumatoid patient. Clinics in podiatric medicine and surgery. 2010;27(2):219–33.
10. Hemke R, Nusman CM, van der Heijde DM, Doria AS, Kuijpers TW, Maas M, et al. Frequency
of joint involvement in juvenile idiopathic arthritis during a 5-year follow-up of
newly diagnosed patients: implications for MR imaging as outcome measure. Rheumatol
Int. 2015;35(2):351–7.
Disclosure of Interest
None Declared
B5 Characterization of TCELLS in PBMCS of JIA patients in pre and post medication
phase of treatment
Anthi Kelempisioti1, Paula Keskitalo2, Virpi Glumoff1, Petri Kulmala1,2, Paula Vahasalo2
1Medical Immunology and Microbiology, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland; 2Pediatrics,
University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
Correspondence: Anthi Kelempisioti
Introduction: Regulatory T cells (Treg) are essential regulators of self-tolerance
and are crucial for maintaining immune homeostasis. FOXP3 transcription factor is
considered as a specific marker and the main regulator for the differentiation and
function of Treg cells. Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) is the most common rheumatic
disease of childhood, and characterization of the specific subsets of Treg is essential
to unravel their role in the pathogenesis of juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA).
Objectives: CD4+CD25+FOXP3+ Treg cells, are some of the key players in immunoregulation.
This study was undertaken to investigate the phenotype of CD4+ T cells in PBMCs from
JIA patients in two stages of clinical analyses, pre and post treatment and compare
them to a matched set of healthy controls.
Methods: The phenotypes of T cells of PBMCs from JIA patients and matched controls
were determined by flow cytometry. Treg suppression capacity was analyzed with a CFSE‐based
T cell suppression assay. Statistical analyses within and between the groups was performed
using SPSS.
Results: Treg number was quantified by analyzing CD4+CD25+FOXP3+ cells from peripheral
blood samples. The proportion and suppression capacity of regulatory T cells were
different between the cases and controls (pre-treatment cases vs controls P = 0,006,
post-treatment cases vs controls P = 0.001). With just one third of the data analyzed
there were slight quantitative differences in regulatory T cells between the case
and control groups but were not statistically significant.
Conclusion: Results shown here are not conclusive since this is an ongoing study.
Disclosure of Interest
None Declared
B6 A 10-year Saudi experience of using adalimumab in treating Juvenile Idiopathic
Arthritis
Mohammed A. Mozaffar, Asraa K. Turkistani, Samaa O. Sangoof
Pediatric, King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Facult of Medicine, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Correspondence: Mohammed A. Mozaffar
Introduction: Traditionally, management of Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) involves
use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) or disease-modifying anti-rheumatic
drugs (DMARDs), such as methotrexate (MTX) or sulfasalazine; or steroids. However,
in several cases, a low therapeutic response or important side effects are encountered.
This study reports our experience in using adalimumab in JIA patients by assessing
the efficacy and safety of this treatment in this category of patients.
Objectives: To reports our experience in using adalimumab in JIA patients by assessing
the efficacy and safety of this treatment in this category of patients.
Methods: A retrospective study was conducted among 38 patients with JIA at the Pediatric
Department, King Abdulaziz Univesrity Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, in the period
January 2005 - March 2016. Patients’ records were reviewed and relevant demographic
and clinical data were collected. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 21 and represented
using tables.
Results: The 38 patients were distributed as 11 (28.9%) males and 27 (71.1%); mean ± SD
age was 11.91 ± 4.54 (range = 3 – 19) years. Mean ± SD (range) disease duration was
3.26 ± 2.52 (0–12) years and most frequent diagnoses included polyarticular rheumatoid
factor (RF) negative form 12 (31.6%), followed by systemic and oligoarticular JIA
with 9 (23.7%) cases each. Before adalimumab,fever was present in 13 (34.2%) cases,
followed by rash in 8 (21.0%) cases; while 21 (55.3%) were asymptomatic. Thirty-one
(81.6%) were in failure of MTX, 19 (50%) of steroids, 7 (18.4%) of NSAIDS and 3 (7.9%)
had had intraarticular injections. Biologically, ANA, RF and anti-CCP were positive
in 22 (57.9%), 8 (21.1%) and 4 (10.5%) of the cases, respectively. Uveitis was present
in 11 (28.9%) of the patients. Analysis of adalimumab efficacy showed 10 (52.6%) cases
of complete remission, 9 (23.7%) of partial remission and 9 (23.7%) other where treatment
was discontinued. Major adverse effects included local pain (4 [10.5%]), new onset
uveitis (1 [2.6%]) andrash (1 [2.6%]), responsible of 1case of treatment discontinuation.
Predictors for complete remission on adalimumab were oligoarticular form (β = 3.450,
p = 0.009) and negative RF (β = 2.381, p = 0.036); while predictors for nonresponse,
whether complete or partial, were polyarticular form (β = −3.784, p = 0.005) and positive
anti-CCP (β = −3.178, p = 0.021).
Conclusion: Adalimumab is an efficient and relatively safe alternative in the treatment
of JIA with relatively high remission rates and lower rates of adverse effects. Further
multicentre experiences are warranted to prove its efficacy and safety in the Saudi
patients.
Disclosure of Interest
None Declared
B7 Gene-engineering biological therapy in children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis
in Moscow
Vladislav Sevostyanov1, Elena Zholobova2
1Municipal Children’s Polyclinic № 122, Moscow, Russian Federation; 2I.M. Sechenov
First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation
Correspondence: Vladislav Sevostyanov
Introduction: In recent years, the problems of children’s rheumatology have become
one of the most important areas of pediatrics. In the treatment of juvenile idiopathic
arthritis (JIA), from the end of the 20th century, truly revolutionary progress is
being made, thanks to the emergence of gene-engineering biological therapy.
Objectives: to analyze the structure of bDMARD and csDMARD therapy in patients with
different JIA subtypes residing in Moscow.
Methods: The research included 262 patients residing in Moscow aged from 1 year up
to 17 years with rheumatic diseases treated by bDMARDs. From them boys are 80 (30,5%),
girls are 182 (69,5%), mean age is 10 years (3–17).
The following parameters was analysed: subtypes of JIA prevalence, structure of bDMARDs;
concomitant csDMARDs therapy.
Results: In total there are 262 children receive bDMARDs in Moscow for 01.12.2016.
Among them 123 (46,9%) suffer from RF(−) polyarthritis, 62 (23,7%) - oligoarthritis,
53 (20,2%) - systemic arthritis, 9,2% - other JIA forms.
2. Structure of bDMARDs in JIA.
TNF-inhibitors prevail over other biologics in children (etanercept and adalimumab
– 71,8%). Of 262 treatments the most frequent bDMARDs are etanercept - 47%, and adalimumab–
24,8%.
19,9% of patients are treated with tocilizumab and 8,3% with abatacept.
3. Structure of concomitant csDMARDs in JIA
Most of children – 73,3% (192 patients from 262) receive a concomitant therapy by
various medicines. Dominating majority of patients receive methotrexate (80,8% of
all children receiving csDMARDs).
Conclusion: 1. TNF-inhibitors prevail in biologic therapy in children an age from
1 to 17 years with JIA, etanercept - 47%, adalimumab– 24,8%.
2. Majority of patients receive methotrexate as a concomitant therapy (80,8% of all
children with JIA).
Disclosure of Interest
None Declared
Juvenile dermatomyositis
B8 Whole-Body Magnetic Resonance Imaging (WBMRI) revealing an extensive muscle involvement
in a child presenting with Gottron’s papules and moderate muscle weakness– case report
Evangelia Bountouvi1, konstantinos Theodoropoulos2, Erato Atsali1, Renata Moutsiou1,
Christina Tsalapaki3, Pelagia Katsimbri4, Sorina Boiu1, Dimitrios T. Boumpas4, Vana
Papaevangelou1
1Pediatric Rheumatology Unit,3RD Department of Pediatrics, National and Kapodistrian
University of Athens, Medical School, Athens, Greece; 22nd Department of Dermatology
and Venereology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Medical School, Athens,
Greece; 3Clinical Immunology-Rheumatology Unit, 2nd Department of Medicine and Laboratory,
National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Medical School, Athens, Greece; 4Joint
Rheumatology Program,4TH Department of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University
of Athens, Medical School, Athens, Greece
Correspondence: Evangelia Bountouvi
Introduction: Juvenile dermatomyositis (JDM), the most common inflammatory myopathy
of childhood, is a rare multisystemic autoimmune vasculopathy, primarily affecting
the skin and skeletal muscles.There is mounting evidence that WBMRI can provide invaluable
information in the management and following up of JDM patients by evaluating the true
extent and inflammatory activity of muscle disease.We report the case of a 5,5 year
old girl with JDM and extensive muscle involvement undetected during clinical examination
and revealed by WBMRI
Objectives: We report the case of a 5,5 year old girl with JDM and extensive muscle
involvement undetected during clinical examination and revealed by WBMRI
Methods: A 5,5 year old girl presented to our department due to a severe cutaneous
eruption and fatigue during the last month. Clinical examination revealed an erythematous,
papulosquamous eruption over dorsal surfaces of the knuckles, extensor aspects of
the elbows and knees (Gottron’s papules),a malar rash and reduced muscle strength
involving mostly the upper body.Muscle strength was assessed using both the Childhood
Myositis Assessment Scale (CMAS 38/52) and Manual Muscle Test 8 test (MMT 8 55/80).
Results: Laboratory work up revealed a significantly increased creatine kinase, lactate
dehydrogenase, aldolase, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase and
a moderate increase of inflammatory markers (ESR,CRP).Antinuclear antibodies were
positive (1/320) whereas all myositis-specific antibodies (MSAs) tested were negative.
WBMRI showed increased signal intensity on T2 and STIR images in almost all muscles
of the body and increased signal intensity in the subcutaneous fat tissue of the arms.
Intriguingly, WBMRI revealed distal legs and forearm muscle inflammation undetected
during clinical examination. Nailfold capillaroscopy demonstrated significant dropout,
dilatation and tortuosity of nailfold capillaries. Based on the pathognomonic rash
and characteristic findings on WBMRI and nailfold capillaroscopy the diagnosis of
JDM was established and invasive diagnostic procedures such as muscle biopsy and EMG
were avoided. Aggressive treatment was initiated with both high doses of steroids
(pulses of methylprednisolone 30 mg/kg, on 3 consecutive days followed by daily oral
prednisolone 2 mg/kg) and high weekly dose of subcutaneous methotrexate. At present,
one month after therapy initiation muscle enzymes are within normal range and muscle
strength is slightly ameliorated.
Conclusion: One of the major challenges in JDM clinical management is to accurately
assess disease activity. The potential of musculoskeletal MRI as a non-invasive imaging
procedure for defining inflammatory activity of involved muscle is well established
and pelvic/thigh MRIs are extensively used. WBMRI screens the entire body with the
advantage of evaluating much larger areas of muscles as well as subcutaneous fat tissue,
thus providing a complete assessment of total muscular inflammatory burden. This is
of utmost importance for the therapeutic optimization in order to prevent further
damage Even though WBMRI value has been suggested in small series of JDM patients,
its real potential in JDM remains to be explored.
Disclosure of Interest
None Declared
Macrophage activation syndrome
B9 “Clinical presentation of macrophage activation syndrome in Mexican children with
rheumatic diseases”
Talia Diaz, Sofia Osorio, Maria Teresa Braña, Yuridiana Ramirez, Luis Aparicio, Andres
Rodriguez, Enrique Faugier, Rocio Maldonado
Pediatric Rheumatology, Hospital Infantil de Mexico Federico Gomez, Ciudad de Mexico,
Mexico
Correspondence: Talia Diaz
Introduction: Macrophage activation syndrome (MAS) is a known complication of pediatric
rheumatic disorders, particularly juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), systemic lupus
erythematosus (SLE) and Kawasaki disease (KD). MAS is a life-threatening condition
with a mortality rate of up to 20%. Therefore, early recognition and immediate therapeutic
intervention are critical.
Objectives: To describe patient demographics, interventions and outcomes in hospitalized
children with MAS complicating SLE, JIA or KD.
Methods: Retrospective cohort study of the Children’s Hospital of Mexico Federico
Gomez, January 2013 to April 2017. Participants had diagnosis for MAS and either SLE,
JIA or KD. The primary outcome was hospital mortality. Secondary outcomes included
intensive care unit admission, critical care interventions, and medication use.
Results: Seven children met inclusion criteria, including 4 with SLE, 2 with systemic
JIA and 1 with Kawasaki disease. Index admission mortality was 28% (2/7). ICU admission
(100%), mechanical ventilation (71%), and inotrope/vasopressor therapy (85%) were
common. Compared to children with JIA, those with SLE had higher mortality and more
ICU care [higher mechanical ventilation duration (10 days vs 2 days, and more time
cardiovascular dysfunction]. Children with SLE and JIA received glucocorticoids and
cyclosporine at similar rates, but more children with SLE received cyclophosphamide
and etoposide. One patient with SLE received etanercept (Anti-TNFa) and another patient
with SAM secondary to Kawasaki disease did not need ICU or vasopressor therapy.
Conclusion: Organ system dysfunction is common in children with rheumatic diseases
complicated by MAS, and children with underlying SLE require more organ system support
than children with JIA Current treatment of pediatric MAS varies based on the underlying
rheumatic disease. In Mexico, the incidence rate of macrophage activation syndrome
secondary to Kawasaki disease is less frequent, the only patient included in this
study had a clear clinical and laboratory improvement after treatment with glucocorticoid
alone.
Disclosure of Interest
None Declared
Miscellaneous rheumatic diseases
B10 Erythema nodosum as symptom of systemic diseases
Maria Francesca Gicchino, Carmela Granato, Giulia Macchini, Daniela Capalbo, Alma
Nunzia Olivieri
Department of Women, Child and General and Specialistic Surgery, Università della
Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
Correspondence: Maria Francesca Gicchino
Introduction: Erythema nodosum (EN)is the most common panniculitis in childhood. The
lesions of EN are localized at the lower limbs, in particular in the pretibial region,
while upper limbs and trunk are rarely involved. Erythema nodosum can be associated
with general symptoms such as fever, weakness, and severe pain, but skin lesions resolve
without skin damage.
Objectives: To describe five cases of Erythema nodosum in childhood
Methods: R.G. f. 3 years old came to our department for a two week history of fever
(up to 38 °C) and skin lesions. Physical examination revealed pharyngeal hyperemia
and multiple erythematous nodules on the extensor surface of the lower extremities.
Laboratory tests showed an elevation of ESR(35 mm/h) and CRP, (1,06 mg/dL) and high
levels of Chlamydia Pneumoniae IgM.Throat swab was negative for group A beta-hemolytic
Streptococcus (GAS) and her chest X-ray was negative. So antibiotic therapy was prescribed
and symptomatology improved.
A.N. m. 8 years old was hospitalized for fever up to 39 °C and skin lesions in the
lower limbs. Patient suffered from recurrent abdominal pain and diarrhea. Physical
examination revealed abdominal pain and erythematous and painful nodules in pretibial
region of both lower limbs. Blood tests showed increase of ESR (40 mm/h) and CRP (1,3 mg/dL).
Blood examinations for celiac disease were negative. Fecal calprotectin was high (500 mg/kg).
Abdomen ultrasound revealed terminal ileum bowel wall thickening. Crohn’s Disease
(CD)was suspected and confirmed with an endoscopy including biopsies.
A.N. f. 5 years old was admitted to our department for fever (38 °C) and skin lesions
that started two weeks ago. The patient also had 1 month history of cough. Physical
examination revealed: pharyngeal hyperemia, cervical and axillary lymphadenopathy
and skin lesions suggestive of erythema nodosum on the extensor parts of both lower
limbs. Inflammatory tests were increased (ERS 28 mm/h, CRP 1,5 mg/dL). Her chest X-ray
was negative. Mantoux test was positive with an induration of 15 millimeters (mm)
after 48 hours and 18 mm after 72 hours, also a Quantiferon test was positive.
L.B. f. 12 years old had an history of fever, headache, fatigue, joint pain and skin
lesions.The objective examination revealed: malar rash, arthritis of the right knee,
erythematous nodules on the extensor surface of the lower limbs. Blood tests showed
anemia (Hb,5 g/dL), thrombocytopenia (PLT 75.000/mm3), ERS increased (30 mm/h) positive
ANA, antiDNA. Systemic Lupus Erythematous was diagnosed according to ACR criteria
I.L. f. 8 months old had a two months history of recurrent fever and skin lesions.
On admission the patient was febrile (TC 38 °C). Physical examination revealed pharyngeal
hyperemia, splenomegaly and erythematous nodules on the extensor surface of the lower
limbs.Inflammatory tests were increased (ERS 33 mm/h, CRP 2 mg/dL). Antibodies anti
CMV, EBV, Chlamydia and Mycoplasma Pneumoniae were negative. Biopsy of a lesion showed
a condition compatible with panarteritis nodosa.
Results: EN is a skin inflammatory reaction. EN could be associated with infectious
diseases (GAS, Chlamydia Pneumoniae, Mycoplasma Pneumoniae, Epstein-Barr virus, Mycobacterium
Tuberculosis), drugs, inflammatory bowel diseases, rheumatologic diseases, malignant
tumor.
Conclusion: The presented cases show that erythema nodosum can be secondary to different
diseases.In the diagnostic process associated symptomatology and laboratory tests
should be considered to diagnose the disease and to start specific treatment.
Disclosure of Interest
None Declared
B11 Observations from clinical practice
Nathan Hasson
Paediatric Rheumatology, The Portland Hospital, London, United Kingdom
Introduction: The following observations were made from 25 years of practice in Paediatric
Rheumatology
Objectives: To share these observations to assist others in their practice and to
facilitate collaborative research and audit
Methods: Review of case data
Results: 1. The cause of symptoms in Benign Joint Hypermobility Syndrome relates to
children today being physically weak as measured by manual muscle testing (Oxford
scale) compared to typical children a generation ago.
2. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome only occurs in children who are hypermobile and weak.
3. Bottom shuffling is a feature of children with hypermobility.
4. W sitting is only seen in hypermobile children as hips can internally rotate 90
degrees and is a safe way to sit
5. Left handedness is only seen in hypermobile children who are clinically right hand
dominant but write with their left hand
6. Writing difficulties relate to the fact that grip strength in children is now one
third of children a generation ago and not related to pen grip
7. Children sit in a kyphotic posture due to poor core muscle stamina and when sat
up straight their left shoulder is higher and narrower than their right due to trapezius
muscle spasm
8. Intoeing, outoeing and tip-toe gait often relates to hypermobility and supple subtalar
joints.
9. Children with hypermobility in general have higher levels of anxiety than non-hypermobile
children. This often leads to symptoms such as abdominal pain.
10. Flat feet are associated with hypermobility and with modern weakness and needs
to be corrected with orthotics
Conclusion: Hypermobility, which is a normal variant in society, is now associated
with a number of problems mostly due to inactivity and weakness in children. These
observations should help others in their practice and be the foundation for further
research.
Disclosure of Interest
None Declared
B12 First pediatric patient with neuromyelitis optica and Sjogren’s syndrome successfully
treated with tocilizumab
Achille Marino1, Sona Narula2, Melissa Lerman3
1Rheumatology, Meyer Children’s Hospital, Florence, Italy; 2Neurology, The Children’s
Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States; 3Rheumatology, The Children’s
Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
Correspondence: Achille Marino
Introduction: Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is a central nervous system inflammatory
disease characterized most often by optic neuritis (ON) and/or transverse myelitis
(TM) along with serum immunoglobulin G antibodies that target the water channel aquaporin-4
(AQP4-IgG). The treatment of this condition is not standardized and may be challenging
(1).
Objectives: To describe the first child with NMO, and also Sjogren’s Syndrome (SS),
successfully treated with the IL-6 receptor humanized monoclonal antibody, tocilizumab.
Methods: Case report
Results: A 23 month old Caucasian male developed prolonged seizure in the setting
of hyponatremia, resolved with hypertonic saline administration. Brain MRI revealed
T2 hyperintense lesions involving the brainstem and thalamus. He was diagnosed with
central pontine myelinolysis (CPM) and achieved symptomatic remission after treatment
with intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) and intravenous methylprednisolone (IVMP).
Two years later, he developed unilateral acute ON on his right eye, completely resolved
following IVMP.
At 11 years, he had an episode of ON in his left eye. There was concern that his presentation
could be consistent with NMO, and his serum was positive for anti-AQP4-IgG at that
time. Work up revealed positive antinuclear antibody (ANA 1:160) and positive SS-A
antibodies, but lip biopsy was inconclusive for SS. Once more, he was treated with
IVMP, followed by oral corticosteroids.
At 14 years, the subject developed left-sided vision loss, right hemiparesis, and
lethargy. He did not improve with IVMP, but did respond to subsequent PLEX. MRI demonstrated
ongoing disease activity with a new large, confluent left-sided supratentorial white
matter lesions and confluent T2 hyperintense lesions of the thoracic cord (T2-T5).
Given the progression, he was treated with Cyclophosphamide (Cyc) and Rituximab (RTX).
After 5 Cyc infusions, he was transitioned to Mycophenolate Mofetil (MMF).
Three months later, he had resolution of spinal involvement on MRI without progression
of brain lesions. His MRI incidentally revealed numerous parotid cysts. Given the
presence of parotid cysts, positive SSA antibodies and mild symptoms of dry mouth,
a diagnosis of SS was made and hydroxychloroquine treatment was started. Over the
next two years, he relapsed several times and was treated with IVMP and RTX. He later
developed secondary hypogammaglobulinemia and began IVIG replacement. Despite complete
CD19+ B lymphocyte depletion (absolute CD19+ ≤ 2 cells/μl), the relapses occurred
with shorter inter-treatment intervals. Therefore tocilizumab was added when he was
16 years old. He was able to discontinue oral corticosteroids within 1 year. Rituximab
was stopped after 4 rounds in two years. Over a follow-up period of three years, he
has not experienced any relapses, despite absolute CD19+ > 100 cells/μl. He has not
developed any adverse effect during ongoing treatment.
Conclusion: Blockade of IL-6 may be useful and safe to treat children NMO. RTX is
used to treat NMO but it is not always effective. A recent report demonstrated that
CD20− plasmablasts (PB), a population not directly impacted by RTX, are increased
in the peripheral blood of patients with NMO, and that IL-6 can promote PB survival
and anti-AQP4 production in vitro (2). As IL-6 levels are increased in sera and cerebrospinal
fluid of patients with active NMO, IL-6 has been hypothesized to be involved in the
disease’s immunopathogenesis (3). This may explain why inhibition of the IL-6 pathway
can be a valuable option to treat NMO. In this study we describe a pediatric patient
who, despite complete depletion of CD19 + B-lymphocytes, did not maintain durable
remission with RTX whereas remission on tocilizumab was maintained also after B-cell
repopulation.
1. Wingerchuk DM, Banwell B, Bennett JL, et al. International consensus diagnostic
criteria for neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders. Neurology 2015;85:177–189.
2. Chihara N, Aranami T, Sato W, et al. Interleukin 6 signaling promotes anti-aquaporin
4 autoantibody production from plasmablasts in neuromyelitis optica. Proc Natl Acad
Sci USA 2011;108:3701–3706.
3. Uzawa A, Mori M, Arai K, et al. Cytokine and chemokine profiles in neuromyelitis
optica: significance of interleukin-6. Mult Scler 2010;16:1443–1452.
Disclosure of Interest
None Declared
B13 Pediatric mixed connective tissue disease: variability of clinical characteristics
at disease onset in two patients
Maria Amelia Muñoz Calonge, Sara Maria Murias Loza, Rosa Maria Alcobendas, Agustin
Remesal
Pediatric Rheumatology, Pediatrician, Madrid, Spain
Correspondence: Maria Amelia Muñoz Calonge
Introduction: Mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD) is one of the most infrequent
rheumatic disorders in children and gathers clinical features of juvenile idiopathic
arthritis (JIA), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), juvenile dermatomyositis (JDM),
and cutaneous systemic scleroderma (CSS). Esophageal dysmotility and cardiopulmonary
involvement may occur during the disease course, being the latter which determines
morbidity and mortality.
Objectives: To describe the main characteristics of two pediatric patients diagnosed
with MCTD and substantially different clinical symptoms at disease onset.
Methods: Clinical charts review
Results: Two patients were included, both girls (case 1 and case 2), whose main characteristics
are described in Table 1. Age at disease onset was 9 and 10 years old respectively.
Delay of diagnosis ranged between 2 and 3 years. Case 1 was initially diagnosed with
positive rheumatoid factor JIA, and case 2 with SLE (being Raynaud phenomenon the
main symptom). Inmunology studies were completed by anti-RNP antibodies determination,
which were positive in both cases. Both patients met Kasukawa criteria for MCTD. Capillaroscopy
showed EMTC pattern in case 1 and sclerodermiform pattern in case 2.
Both patients receive hydroxychloroquine and mycophenolate mofetile.
Conclusion: A wide variability exists regarding clinical onset of pediatric MCTD and
delay of diagnosis is common. Further research is needed in order to validate paediatric
classification/diagnostic criteria.
Disclosure of Interest
None Declared
Table 1 (abstract B13)
Clinical characteristics of two paediatric patients diagnosed with mixed connective
tissue disease
Symptoms at disease onset
Laboratory examinations
Capillaroscopy
Anti-RNP antibodies
Diagnosis
Case 1
ArthritisArthralgia
ANA 1/2560ESR 54 mm/hCRP 80.55 mg/dLRF 49.9 UI/mLLymphopenia
Compatible with MCTD
Positive
MCTD
Case 2
Raynaud’s Disease
ANA 1/2560Positive Anti-Ro antibodiesC4 9 mg/dlESR 28 mm/hLymphopenia
Sclerodermiform-like
Positive
MCTD
ANA antinuclear antibodies, ESR erythrocyte sedimentation rate, CRP C-reactive protein,
RF rheumatoid factor, MCTD mixed connective tissue disease
B14 Complex regional pain syndrome type I: therapeutic management and progosis factors
Esmeralda Núñez-Cuadros1, Rocio Galindo Zavala1, Gisela Díaz-Cordovés Rego1, Cristina
Antúnez Fernández2, Yaiza García Molina2, Antonio L. Urda Cardona2
1Paediatric Rheumatology, Universitary Regional Malaga Hospital, MALAGA, Spain; 2Paediatrics,
Universitary Regional Malaga Hospital, MALAGA, Spain
Correspondence: Esmeralda Núñez-Cuadros
Introduction: Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a neuropathic disoder characterized
by chronic pain of unknown cause that associates sensorial, autonomic and motor symptoms.
It is an underdiagnosed entity that requieres a multidisciplinary approach. Currently
there are no standarized treatment protocols.
Objectives: To describe clinical and epidemiological features of CRPS patients and
to analize factors potentially involved in evolution and therapeutic response.
Methods: Descriptive retrospective study in CRPS patiens (diagnosed accoding to Budapest
criteria) younger than 14 years monitored by a Pediatric Rheumatology Unit between
January 2009 and February 2017.
Results: 15 patients were enrolled, 11 women mean age 10,82 years (±1,7 SD). Among
possible triggers we found previous trauma in 12 patients (11 were inmovilized with
a median duration of 20 days) and we identified unfavorable psychological factors
in 7 patients. All of them showed unilateral lower limbs involvement, except for one
patient with bilateral affection.
In terms of clinical symptoms, 14 presented functional impairement, 13 neuropathic
pain (associated to allodynia in 10) and 5 trophic changes. None of them had hypertrichosis.
The mean time of diagnosis delay was 55,1 days (±63,2 SD). Magnetic resonance was
performed in 14 patients and showed pathologic findings in 9. Bone scintigraphy was
performed in 12 patients, being diagnostic (hypercaption in early phase) in 8.
Before the diagnosis was done all the patients received NSAIDs without improvement.
After the diagnosis everyone began physiotherapy and pharmacologic treatment: pregabaline
in 12, minor opioids in 8 and topical capsaicine 8% in 4. Due to refractoriness, a
bupivacaina epidural catheter was used in 3 patients.
Currently, 9 patients has no symptoms, with a median time of resolution of 267,8 days
(IQR:135–330) and 6 patients are still being monitored because of persistent symptoms,
with a median time of evolution of 246 days (IQR: 94–342).
At the bivariant analysis no relation was found between time until resolution and
duration of immobilization neither unfavorable psychological factors, but we found
a strong possitive correlation with the time of diagnostic delay (Rho: 0,85; p = 0,007).
Conclusion: Frequently there is a trauma history in CRPS in children but it is not
always present.
Althoug imaging tests are really helpfull to establish the diagnosis, sometimes they
do not show any changes.
It requires a multidisciplinary approach with physiotherapy and analgesia as the fundamental
basis of it.
The presence of desfavourable psycological factors in nearly a half of patients makes
it essential a professionalized aproach to this level to manage an adequate control
of the disease.
An early diagnose determines a faster clinical resolution, that is why a high suspicion
rate is needed.
Disclosure of Interest
None Declared
B15 A rare cause of joint pain: synovial haemangioma
Nihal Sahin1, Habibe S. Durmus2, Ayse S. Pinarbasi3, Zubeyde Gunduz1, Muammer H. Poyrazoglu1,
Zehra F. Karaman4, Turhan Oktem5, Mithat Oner6, Ruhan Dusunsel1
1Pediatric Rheumatology, Erciyes University Faculty of Medicine, Kayseri, Turkey;
2Pediatrics, Erciyes University Faculty of Medicine, Kayseri, Turkey; 3Pediatric Nephrology,
Erciyes University Faculty of Medicine, Kayseri, Turkey; 4Radiology, Erciyes University
Faculty of Medicine, Kayseri, Turkey; 5Pathology, Erciyes University Faculty of Medicine,
Kayseri, Turkey; 6Ortopedics, Erciyes University Faculty of Medicine, Kayseri, Turkey
Correspondence: Nihal Sahin
Introduction: Synovial haemangioma is a rare type of tumor which affects the knee
joint. Patients who are usually female and their second decade of life, often apply
nonspesific symptoms like pain and limitation of motion. When this uncommon tumor
is untreated, it can cause cartilage erosion and degenerative joint disease. Because
of its rarity, physician awareness is low that results in delayed diagnosis. We presented
a synovial haemangioma of the knee to increase awareness of pediatricians.
Objectives: Clinical case
Methods: A 17-year-old girl was admitted to Erciyes Unversity Faculty Of Medicine
Peidatric Rheumatology in January 2017 with complaints of pain, swelling and tenderness
in her left knee.
Results: A 17-year-old girl was admitted with complaints of pain, swelling and tenderness
in her left knee since she was 3 years old. With the previously magnetic resonance
imaging of the knee joint, she was diagnosed as chronic arthritis on the knee joint.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs were recommended. Patient applied to our hospital
because of ongoing complaints. There was no any arthritis finding including tenderness,
pain on motion, deformity, and limitation of motion. On the upper part of left knee,
she had localized swelling measuring 3,5x4 cm in diameter. Magnetic resonance imaging
(MRI) showed synovial haemangioma characterized by a well-circumscribed contour with
a lobule filling the left suprapatellar bursa and space- filling formation with heterogeneous
intense contrast enhancement after contrast agent administration. It was required
open total synovectomy and mass resection, and histopathological findings were compatible
with cavernous haemangioma.
Conclusion: Tumor and tumor like lesions such as synovial haemangiomas should be kept
in mind in patients with arthritis- compatible findings in single joint. In case of
doubt, especially intra-articular lesions, imaging methods should be used for early
diagnosis and prevent long term sequel.
Disclosure of Interest
None Declared
B16 Bowel bypass syndrome after postnatal jejunoileal anastomosis
Gordana Susic1, Tamara Krstajic2, Dragana Vujovic2, Nedeljko Radlovic2,3, Zoran Lekovic2,3,
Dusica Novakovic1, Gordana Milosevski Lomic2
1Institute of Rheumatology, Belgrade, Serbia; 2University Children’s hospital, Belgrade,
Serbia; 3School of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
Correspondence: Gordana Susic
Introduction: Rheumatic manifestations are not uncommon complication of jejunoileal
bypass in treating morbid obesity, but also in other conditions without reduction
of lenght small intestini. Pathogenesis is poorly understood, but overgrowth of intestinal
bacteria may play causative role.
Objectives: To present unusual case of reactive arthritis
Methods: data from the medical history
Results: We are presenting 18 months old girl at the first admission in our clinic,
with signs of arthritis appeared 14 months after bowel resection due to prenatal volvulus.
She was underwent to the surgical procedure in the first day after birth, and jejunoileal
anastomosis was done, leaving only 9 cm small intestine, ileocoecal valve was spared.
Febrile episode with symptoms of mild respiratory infection proceeded to rheumatologic
manifestation a few days before that. Personal history: weight at the birth 3400 g,
Apgar score 8/9, delivery on time, not vaccinated, total parenteral nutrition for
7 months, after that time special diet was conducted. Clinical examination showed
malnourished girl (8350 g below P3), not walked alone, otherwise healthy, with evident
polyarthritis: left wrist, MCP and PIP on the left hand, both knees, left ankle, dactylitis
of II finger of the left foot and limited range of motion in left MTP area. Arthritis
was confirmed by ultrasound examination. There were no any skin changes, the belly
was meteoristic, but liver and spleen were within normal range.
Results of the laboratory tests showed: CRP 73,6 mg, ESR 16 mm/h, WBC 12,4 x 109/L,
Hb 130 g/l, PLT 324 x 109/L, IgM 3,02 g/L and IgG 17,5 (above upper limit) with elevation
of all subclass of IgG, HLA -A1, 32, B35.
Results of the following laboratory studies were normal: blood cultures, culture throat
and urine, for hepatitis B surface antigen, antibody to hepatitis A virus, rheumatoid
factor, C4, C3, total complement, ANA, ANCA, C3, C4, CIC, IgA. Several samples of
urine revealed hematuria. Broad-spectrum antibiotic – Cephtriaxone was introduced,
later after consultation with nephrologist was changed with sulfamethoxazole/trimetoprine
5 mg/BW, which she continued to take at home. Probiotic and loperamide were standard
medication after surgical procedure, and ibuprofen was added due to arthritis. On
the day of discharge from hospital, after 15 days from admisison, the girl was in
good condition, with normal laboratory analysis, without any signs of arthritis. Hematuria
was explaned by hypercalciuria due to malabsorptional syndrome, and potassium citrate
was introduced for prevetion of hypercalciuria. Several motnhs later rickets was confirmed
clinicaly and by x-ray, and vitamin D suplementation was added. Up to now the girl
had several relapses of arthritis, with limited duration, resolving of symptoms for
a few days. She has normal renal function, temporary hipercalciuria, mild low mass
wieght proteinuria and propensity to hiperoxaluria. Repeated diarrhea is the main
problem sometimes leading to metabolic acidosis and requiring antibiotic treatment.
Conclusion: We report the patient with unusual type of reactive arthritis. To our
best knowledge this is the youngest patent with bypass syndrome so far published.
Prophylactic treatment with antibiotic has been showed good results in suppressing
joints inflammation, however this is self-limiting condition. Other manifestations
of malabsorption require serious approach and treatment.
We thank to the parents for cooperation. A written consent was obtaned for the publication
of the case report.
Disclosure of Interest
None Declared
Psycho-social aspects and rehabilitation
B17 Nurse’s experiences of distraction during procedures in pediatric care
Karina Mördrup1, Gunilla Hesselstrand2
1Pediatric Rheumatology Unit, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden; 2Pediatric
Orthopedic Unit, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
Correspondence: Karina Mördrup
Introduction: Children’s experiences of fear and pain from hospital visits could result
in subsequent visits feeling even more daunting and negative experiences could follow
the child into adulthood. Earlier studies shows that preparing and distraction in
a playful manor could decreased the child’s experience of pain and fear during a painful
procedure. Parents and children should be involved in distraction and communication
about the child’s care. The nurse has, together with the child, responsibility to
select the distraction method and show how to use it.
Objectives: To describe nurses’ experiences of distraction associated with painful
and unpleasant procedures in pediatric care.
Methods: Descriptive study design using qualitative interviews with six nurses from
pediatric care were conducted. To process the data qualitative content analysis was
used.
Results: The result could be divided into two categories; individualized care and
interaction. The result were clarified of nine subcategories.
Conclusion: The nurse’s used distraction in almost all the painful procedures that
children went through. Individualized distraction, safety, allocating time and participation
of the child was crucial for effective distraction. Honest communication and sensitivity
to the child’s experiences created the conditions for a good interaction. Cooperation
with parents and colleagues helped the distraction process for child and nurse. Evaluation
of the distraction was made by assessing the child’s body language.
Disclosure of Interest
None Declared
Spondyloarthritis (SpA) and enthesitis related arthritis (ERA)
B18 Simultaneous presentation of musculoskeletal and gastrointestinal symptoms in
HLA-B27 positive and anti-TTG negative patient with typical celiac disease histology
Iva Sorić1, Lovro Lamot1,2, Mandica Vidovic1, Mirta Lamot1, Miroslav Harjacek1,2
1Clinical Hospital Center Sestre Milosrdnice, Zagreb, Croatia; 2Univeristy of Zagreb
School of Medicine, Zagreb, Croatia
Correspondence: Iva Sorić
Introduction: in recent years a number of studies showed a connection between intestinal
dysbiosis and various immunological diseases, hence it is not coincidence gastrointestinal
abnormalities can often be found in patients with rheumatic diseases and musculoskeletal
symptoms are not rare in variety of digestive system disorders. Nevertheless, when
both musculoskeletal and gastrointestinal symptoms presents simultaneously at the
beginning of the disease, it might be difficult to distinguish the primary disorder.
Objectives: to present a patient with simultaneous presentation of characteristic
gastrointestinal and musculoskeletal symptoms.
Methods: case report.
Results: a thirteen year old boy with medical history of infantile colic and a brother
with HLA B27 positive juvenile spondyloarthritis was admitted to our department due
to persistent inflammatory lumbosacral pain, Achiles enthesitis, and abdominal discomfort.
During the six months period prior to the admission he had six episodes of fever,
cough, abdominal pain and aphthae lasting for few days. Acute surgical disease was
excluded on several occasions. Chest radiograph, throat and nose cultures showed no
signs of infection. During the last few episodes he developed swelling of the right
talocrural joint which resolved after short course of NSAID. Later, severe pain in
sacroiliac (SI) joints with morning stiffness emerged, while his stools became loose
and frothy. Abdominal ultrasound showed ileocecal mesenteric lymphadenitis and dilated
intestinal loops filled with dense liquid content. Upon the first examination by paediatric
rheumatologist he had palpatory periumbilical pain as well as tenderness of SI joints
and Achiles entheses. His height and weight were below the 5th centile while estimated
bone age was 12. ANA, ANCA and RF were negative. There was no sign of uveitis on ophthalmologic
examination. HLA typing was positive for B27. Radiographic and magnetic resonance
imaging of SI joints and spine showed no signs of inflammation. Immunoglobulin A anti-tissue
transglutaminase antibody (IgA TTG) was negative while serum IgA levels were normal.
No pathological agents were isolated from stool. Several faecal occult blood tests
were negative and faecal calprotectin levels were normal. Endoscopy of upper and lower
gastrointestinal tract revealed hiatal hernia, oesophagitis, gastritis and duodenitis.
Histologic evaluation of several duodenal biopsy specimens displayed typical features
of celiac disease. A month after initiation of gluten free diet and NSAID’s the improvement
of all symptoms was noticed.
Conclusion: although they differ in HLA predispositions, both JIA and CD are associated
with 4q27 locus, which encodes IL-2 and IL-12 cytokines important for activation and
regulation of immune system, and both are linked with a functional single nucleotide
polymorphism in the PTPN22 gene (1858C > T). Intriguingly, lymphocyte cytotoxicity
in the intestinal mucosa is abnormally increased in both entities, suggesting some
luminal, possibly a nutritional factor, may be involved. This agent is well established
in CD, but number of cases, including presented, exhibited beneficial role of gluten
free diet in arthritis patients as well. Our patient clearly met ILAR criteria for
ErA and had typical histological features of CD, but without elevated anti-TTG levels.
Since his musculoskeletal symptoms could also be explained as a part of extra-intestinal
CD manifestations, the real distinction of underlying disorders was challenging. Therefore
it is reasonable to conclude both CD and certain subtypes of JIA have multiple shared
mechanisms making them hard to separate in given circumstances.
Disclosure of Interest
None Declared
Systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA)
B19 Reaching the limits despite extended immunomodulatory therapy in a patient with
systemic JIA; a case report
Eva Adank, Elvira Cannizzaro Schneider
Department of Paediatric Rheumatology, Kinderspital Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
Correspondence: Eva Adank
Introduction: New immunomodulatory therapies that have emerged over the past years
have greatly improved success in autoimmune disease treatment. We present a case of
refractory systemic JIA (sJIA) that despite extended medical treatment shows activity
of the disease.
Objectives: As this case with exhausted use of new immunomodulatory drugs illustrates
the limitation of therapeutic options available for sJIA it shows on the other side
a good safety profile without severe side effects.
Methods: Case Report
Results: An eleven year old girl presented with typical signs of sJIA with recurring
fever over 2 weeks, typical rash, and splenomegaly. After stopping the oral steroids
reactivation of the disease with gonarthritis and fever occurred both under the treatment
with NSAID (Naproxen) and Methotrexate (MTX) injections (17.5 mg/week). Even the intravenous
therapy with Tocilizumab (8 mg/kg every 2 weeks) and steroids didn’t show any sufficient
effect as fever, rash and arthritis persisted. A first attempt with Canakinumab (150 mg)
failed because of high fever and arthritis 10 days after the first injection, which
was continuing after the premature second injection after 24 days already. As a next
step we installed Anakinra with an initial dose of 40 mg/day (1 mg/kg/day).The dose
needed to be raised because of signs of systemic inflammation and after an intravenous
steroid pulse treatment we reached temporary stability at the dosage of 100 mg daily
(2.4 mg/kg/day) still under high dosage of steroids (60 mg daily). An exacerbation
presenting as MAS with rapidly raise of ferritin to 5850ug/l along with other activity
values caused an additional therapy with Cyclosporine and the elevation of Anakinra
to 200 mg daily (4.7 mg/kg/d) after treatment of MAS with intravenous steroid pulse
therapy. Under this treatment a stabilization of her condition was seen including
disappearance of fever and normalization of the laboratory values. Gradually we could
taper the oral steroids over 8 month from 60 mg daily to 10 mg daily, but under the
dosage of 10 mg (0.23 mg/kg/d) signs of systemic inflammation returned. As an immunomodulatory
effect as well as to prevent septic complications due to long lasting treatment with
steroids we started intravenous immunoglobulin (0.4 g/kg) monthly and Posaconazol
as antifungal prophylaxis. While again rising the steroid doses up to 60 mg/day and
briefly to 80 mg/d our patient still presented with intermitting fever and high activity
signs in the lab. This brought us to change again the IL-1-antagonist to Canakinumab
after about one year of therapy with Anakinra that in fact also caused strong local
reaction due to the injections that were applied twice daily. During 11 month of therapy
with Canakinumab, gradually raised from 300 mg/3 weeks to 300 mg/2 weeks, we had at
least for a short time a satisfactory response with low lab activity and no fever
under 60 mg/d Prednisolon and 300 mg/2 weeks Canakinumab. But the attempt to reduce
the steroid therapy failed again. At a dose of oral steroids of 50 mg/day persisting
fever with signs of inflammation in the lab occurred.
At least in contrast to prior therapeutic setting with this extended treatment (fourfold
dose of Canakinumab, high-dose of oral steroids, intravenous immunoglobulin monthly,
additionally Cyclosporine and MTX) the only clinical symptom was fever. Some lab values
(LDH, AST, ALT, CRP, ESR) showed little activity, but no rush, no arthritis and no
signs of MAS were seen as a partial respond to this treatment. For all that high immunosuppressive
therapy we did not have any severe infections nor other serious side effects beside
short stature and the cataract due to the long lasting steroid therapy.
Conclusion: This exemplary case illustrates the still ongoing three-year search for
effective therapy in a patient with sJIA, the whole spectrum of current therapeutic
possibilities and its safety profile concerning severe infections. It also shows us
that even with new immunomodulatory therapies there are still limitations in controlling
the disease.
Disclosure of Interest
None Declared
Systemic lupus erythematosus and antiphospholipid syndrome
B20 Growth in children with Juvenile Systemic Lupus erythematosus in the Sultanate
of Oman
Eiman Abdalla1, Irfan Ullah1, L Jeyaseelan2, Reem Abdwani1
1Child health, Sultan Qaboos University Hospital, Muscat, Oman; 2Biostatistics, Sultan
Qaboos University Hospital, Muscat, Oman
Correspondence: Eiman Abdalla
Introduction: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic, multisystem autoimmune
disease with juvenile onset SLE representing 10-20% of all SLE cases and with earlier
diagnosis and better approaches to treatment, there has been marked improvement in
the prognosis but with more morbidities seen, such as growth failure and pubertal
delay.
Objectives: The goal of our study is to assess growth of Omani children with juvenile
onset SLE, by evaluating their anthropometric measurements, identifying growth failure
and study contributing factors to growth failure.
Methods: This is a retrospective study in which the serial anthropometric measurements
(weights and heights) of patients with juvenile onset systemic lupus erythematosus
(jSLE) following in pediatric rheumatology, child health department in SQUH are retrieved
from their records. Inclusion criteria include children below 16 yrs. of age who are
diagnosed with jSLE as per 1982 revised ACR criteria. Anthropometric measurements
are obtained at disease onset, 6 months, 12 months and 24 months after disease onset.
Parents’ heights are measured to calculate the child’s respective sex-adjusted mid
parental height (target height). This is calculated by adding 2.5 inches or 6.5 cm
to the mean of the parents’ heights for boys while for girls, subtract 2.5 inches
or 6.5 cm from the mean of the parents’ heights. Parent-adjusted height z score is
calculated as the difference between height z score for chronological age and target
height. Growth failure was defined as parent-adjusted height z score less than −1.5.
Height deflection (decreased height z score > − 0.25 per year) compared to baseline
was evaluated. Factors which might have attributed to growth failure were studied
and these included growth failure at baseline, disease duration, disease activity
(SLEDAI score) and cumulative steroid dose.
Results: Twenty five out of 31 patients have complete data (6 patients could not get
either of parents height as only one parent come with patient, 2 patients are no longer
following with us). Growth failure is identified in 8 patients (female: male ratio
of 7:1) hence the hospital prevalence and the 95% CI of growth failure is 32% (13.7%,
50.2%) in our study. The female prevalence of growth failure is 35% as compared to
male prevalence 20%. However, the difference was not statistically significant (p
value 0.915). Growth failure determinants were previous growth failure at initial
assessment (p 0.00) and high cumulative corticosteroid doses (p 0.061), while disease
duration and disease activity were not found to be statistically significant contributing
factors (p value 0.24 and 0.52, respectively).
Conclusion: Growth failure was identified in our children with juvenile SLE, and those
at risk were those who already had growth failure previously and those who received
high corticosteroid dose.
Disclosure of Interest
None Declared
B21 Maternal and neonatal outcome of SLE pregnancies in Sultan Qaboos University Hospital
Reem Abdwani1, Laila AL Shaqsi2, Ibrahim Al Zakwani1
1Child Health, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman; 2Child Health, Oman Medical
Speciality Board, Muscat, Oman
Correspondence: Reem Abdwani
Introduction: SLE s an autoimmune disease that affect women primarily of childbearing
age. As a consequence, pregnancy and its neonatal outcome are of particular importance
in this condition. It appears that individual races and ethnicities may exhibit differences
in disease susceptibility and disease manifestations. There are limited studies in
SLE patients emanating from Arab world, however, it is recognized that Arabs experience
a different disease burden than Caucasians
Objectives: To determine differences in maternal and neonatal outcomes in pregnancies
complicated with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) compared to those with normal
pregnancies in Arab women from Sultanate of Oman.
Methods: A retrospective analysis of 147 pregnant mothers with their corresponding
infants was enlisted (56 (38%) SLE mothers and 91 (62%) pregnant controls). Analyses
were performed using descriptive statistics.
Results: The overall mean age of the cohort was 30 ± 5 years ranging from 19 to 44 years.
The SLE mothers were mainly treated with hydroxychloroquin (n = 41; 73%), prednisolone
(n = 38; 68%) and azathioprine (n = 17; 30%). Disease activity revealed that 39% (n = 22)
had no disease activity while 41% (n = 23), 13% (n = 7) and 7.1% (n = 4) had mild
(SLEDAI, 1–5), moderate (SLEDAI, 6–10) and severe (SLEDAI, 311), respectively. The
SLE mothers were associated more with abortions (43% vs. 15%; p < 0.001), gestational
diabetes (28% vs. 10%; p = 0.004), polyhydramnious (7.1% vs. 0; p = 0.020), pre-term
labor (21% vs. 1.1%; p < 0.001), previous pre-term (8.9% vs. 1.1%; p = 0.030) and
intra-uterine growth retardation (21% vs. 0; p < 0.001) when compared to normal pregnant
controls. Furthermore, the neonates born to SLE mothers were more likely to be pre-term
(29% vs. 1.1%; p < 0.001), had low birth weight (<2500 g) (32% vs. 1.1%; p < 0.001)
and associated with still birth (7.1% vs. 0; p = 0.010) when compared to neonates
born to normal pregnancies (Table 2).
Conclusion: SLE mothers were associated with worse neonatal and maternal outcomes
when compared to normal pregnant mothers despite adequate disease control and antenatal
follow up.
Disclosure of Interest
None Declared
Table 2 (abstract B21)
Demographics of Maternal Pregnancies
Characteristic,
n (%) unless specified otherwise
All(N = 147)
Non-SLE (n = 91)
SLE(n = 56)
P-value
Age, mean ± SD, years
30 ± 5
29 ± 5
31 ± 5
0.145
Primigravida (1)
35 (24%)
24 (26%)
11 (20%)
Multigravida (2–4)
79 (54%)
52 (57%)
27 (48%)
0.084
Grand multigravida (>5)
33 (24%)
15 (16%)
18 (32%)
Abortions
38 (26%)
14 (15%)
24 (43%)
<0.001
Gestational diabetes
24 (17%)
9 (10%)
15 (28%)
0.004
Polyhydramnios
4 (2.7%)
0
4 (7.1%)
0.020
Pre-term labour
13 (8.8%)
1 (1.1%)
12 (21%)
<0.001
IUGR
12 (8.2%)
0
12 (21%)
<0.001
B22 Juvenile Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (J SLE) initially diagnosed as autoimmune
hepatitis (AIH) -case report
Erato Atsali1, Pelagia Katsimbri2, Antonis Fanouriakis2, Sorina Boiu1, Vana Papaevangelou1,
Dimitrios T. Boumpas2
1Pediatric Rheumatology Unit,3RD Department of Pediatrics, National and Kapodestrian
University of Athens, Medical School, Athens, Greece; 2Joint Rheumatology Program,
4TH Department of Medicine, National and Kapodestrian University of Athens, Medical
School, Athens, Greece
Correspondence: Erato Atsali
Introduction: Hepatic involvement in patients with SLE is well documented, but considered
to be rare. To distinguish whether elevated liver enzymes in patients with SLE represent
a non-specific hepatic involvement or AIH remains a difficult challenge for the treating
physician.
Objectives: We present the case of a 17,5 years old girl with Juvenile Systemic Lupus
Erythematosus initially diagnosed as autoimmune hepatitis.
Methods: A 15,5 years old girl with the diagnosis of autoimmune hepatitis presented
to our department two years ago seeking a second opinion. Laboratory exams done due
to a persistent maculopapular rash of hands, elbows and feets (considered initially
as contact dermatitis) had revealed a significant increase of transaminase levels
(4fold above the upper normal limit). Gamma glutamyl transpeptidase, rheumatoid factor
IgM and immunoglobulin G were also elevated. A more extensive laboratory work up excluded
viral hepatitis A,B and C, Wilson disease and celiac disease. Serological work up
revealed positive antinuclear (ANA), smooth muscles antibodies (SMA) and anti liver
cytosol type 1 (anti –LC-1) antibodies.IgM antibodies against Coxsackie virus, ECHO
virus and Epstein Barr virus were also positive. Liver biopsy was performed and revealed
no pathology. Based on serological markers the diagnosis of AIH was considered as
most probable and the girl was started on per os prednisolone therapy (0,5 mg/kg).
Results: On physical examination the girl had reticular peliosis, arthritis of metatarsophalangeal
joints and a papular rash of hands, elbows and feet with no clinical sign of chronic
liver disease (jaundice,firm liver,hepato/spleno megaly,palmar erythema).Based on
normal liver histology we considered the diagnosis of autoimmune hepatitis as less
probable. Supplemental laboratory exams revealed low complement C3 and positive anti
Ro antibodies and Coombs test.Cardiological examination showed a small pericardial
effusion. SLE was diagnosed and hydroxychloquine was added to treatment. Nine months
later,while receiving a low dose of steroids,she developed a typical malar rash and
nephritis with significant proteinuria and hypoalbuminemia. A renal biopsy showed
early membranous nephritis. Treatment with pulses of methylprednisolone (3 pulses
on 3 consecutive days,1gr each), followed by per os steroids and azathioprine were
started leading to a complete resolution of malar rash, cutaneous eruptions and proteinuria.Steroids
were slowly tapered. The girl is now treated with hydroxychloquine,azathioprine (2,5 mg/kg)
and a low dose of prednisolone (5 mg/day).SLE activity remains low (SLEDAI 2 K:2).
Conclusion: Specific markers for AIH are soluble liver antigen (SLA), liver-pancreas,
smooth-muscle antibody (SMA) with specificity for F-actin and microsomal autoantigens,
such as anti-liver kidney antibodies (anti-LKM antibody). While these markers may
help to differentiate AIH from SLE serologically, liver histopathology represents
the key feature that distinguishes AIH in SLE from nonspecific hepatic involvement
in SLE. In patients with AIH liver histopathology shows characteristic lesions, such
as interface hepatitis, rosetting of hepatocytes, emperipolesis and - consecutive
to inflammation - fibrosis. As the diagnosis of AIH in SLE patients can influence
treatment choices, longterm outcome and optimal surveillance of the patients, adequate
attention should be taken to differentiate between “true additional” AIH and secondary
liver involvement.
Disclosure of Interest
None Declared
B23 Pyrexia of Unkown Origin (PUO) and severe ventricular systolic dysfunction – presenting
manifestations of childhood SLE in a 15 year old boy
Mahesh Janarthanan1, Dhanarathnamoorthy Vetrichelvan2, P Ramachandran2, Sangeetha
Geminiganesan2, Dinesh Kumar2, Subba Rao2
1Division of Pediatric Reumatology, Sri Ramachandra University, Chennai, India; 2Department
of Pediatrics, Sri Ramachandra University, Chennai, India
Correspondence: Mahesh Janarthanan
Introduction: Cardiac manifestations in childhood SLE are not uncommon. Up to 50%
of patients can have cardiac manifestations including pericarditis, pericardial effusion
or valvular vegetations.A significant proportion of these patients do not have cardiac
related symptoms and these manifestations are picked up on screening by echocardiogram.
Objectives: Severe ventricular systolic dysfunction is very rare as a presenting manifestation
in childhood SLE.
Methods: We present the case of a 15 year old boy with childhood SLE who presented
to us with pyrexia of unknown origin and severe ventricular systolic dysfunction needing
immune modulators,inotropic and ventilator support.
Results: A 15 year old boy presented with history of fever for 15 days and 2 episodes
of generalized tonic,clonic seizures. He did not have any other features suggestive
of connective tissue disorder.His investigations on admission revealed Hb-10.9gms/dl,
Total white cell count- 5400cells/cumm, Polymorphs 79%, Lymphocytes −15.9%, Platelet
count 122000,ESR – 71 mm/hr. Direct Coomb’s test was negative.His liver function tests
showed transaminitis SGOT 442U/l and SGPT 131 U/l. Serum uric acid 8.6 mg/dl and serum
LDH 2387 U/l were elevated. Serum creatinine was 1 mg/dl and urine routine showed
1+ proteinuria with few red blood cells. Bone marrow examination revealed reactive
changes.
Cerebro spinal fluid analysis and MRI brain were normal. He was commenced on empirical
antibiotics and antiviral agents. On day 3 of admission to hospital he developed breathing
difficulty with dropping of blood pressure. Chest Xray showed cardiomegaly.Echocardiogram
at this stage revealed severe left ventricular dysfunction with an ejection fraction
of 20% and mild pericardial effusion. He was treated with ventilatory and inotropic
support.The results of his autoimmune work were now available and this revealed ANA
positive 1:320 and low complement levels. dsDNA, ENA and APLA work up were negative.
He was treated with dobutamine, milrinone,spirinolactone and furosemide infusion.
He also received pulsed methylprednsiolone, IVIG and cyclophosphamide.The patients
hemodynamic status improved gradually and he was weaned off inotropic and ventilatory
support over 2 weeks. After he stabilized a renal biopsy was done and this revealed
class III lupus nephritis. The patient is currently on a maintainence regimen with
low dose steroids, hydroxychloroquine, mycophenolate mofetil and enalapril.
Conclusion: Severe ventricular dysfunction with very low ejection fraction as presenting
cardiac manifestation of SLE has rarely been reported in childhood SLE. Combination
of supportive measures, pulsed high dose methylprednisolone, IVIG and cyclophosphamide
was life saving in this patient.
Disclosure of Interest
None Declared
B24 Systemic Lupus Erythematosus in a female with X trisomy
Eleni-Maria Papatesta, Despoina Maritsi, Irini Eleftheriou, Maria Tsolia, Olga Vougiouka
Second department of Pediatrics, P. & A. Kyriakou Children’s Hospital, Athens, Greece
Correspondence: Eleni-Maria Papatesta
Introduction: Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is the prototype of autoimmune diseases
which affects mostly women of childbearing age. It is estimated that for 15-20% of
all patients, the onset of the disease is in childhood. Recent evidence suggests that
genetic factors transmitted by the X-chromosome may confer increased risk for SLE
and autoimmunity in general. The calculated prevalence of SLE in females with triple
X syndrome (47, XXX), which accounts for 1 in 1000 births, is three times higher than
in 46XX females. It is also known that SLE is more common in males with Kleinfelter
syndrome (47, XXY) rather than in genotypic 46XY.
Objectives: We present a patient with mosaic 47ΧΧΧ (90%) and 46ΧΧ (10%) who was diagnosed
with SLE
Methods: Case report
Results: A 13-year old girl presented to our hospital with pain and swelling of her
right hand and her left foot, asthenia, headaches, mouth sores and a rash on her legs.
Symptoms initiated 3 weeks prior to admission. Prenatal screening had shown a mosaic
embryo with two cell lines 47, XXX (90%) and 46, XX (10%).
On examination she had arthritis of her right wrist and left ankle joints, a diffuse
purpuric rash primarily affecting her lower limbs, facial erythema and mouth ulcers.
Examination of her cardiovascular, respiratory, gastrointestinal and central nervous
systems was intact. There was no lymphadenopathy. On admission, laboratory tests revealed
marginal leucopenia (WBC 4000(N 50.8%/L 41.1%/M 6%), Coombs positive hemolytic anemia,
(Hb 9.7 g/dl) and an ESR of 40 mm/h. Renal function tests showed urea of 53 mg/dl
(nv 5–44) and creatinine 0,9 mg/dl (nv 0.4-0.8). Moreover, antinuclear antibody titer
>1/640, diffuse, positive mitotic pattern, anti-dsDNA positive (RIA >90), low complement
levels C3 43.8 mg/dl C4 4.26, CH50 < 10, anti ENA positive, anti SSA (Ro) positive.
Urinanalysis showed severe proteinuria and hematuria, in keeping with active nephritis.
The result of the renal biopsy was diffuse proliferative glomerulonephritis with individual
membranoproliferative ‘standard’, findings consistent with SLE nephritis IV-G class
(A). During her hospitalization her vital signs remained stable.
Her medical management included methylprednisolone pulses followed by slow corticosteroid
tapering, mycophenolate mofetil and hydroxychloroquine.She adequately responded to
treatment and is on a regular follow up.
Conclusion: For years SLE female predilection was considered as a hormonal hypothesis.
Recent data on epigenetic X-chromosome non deletion on somatic female cells support
the phenomenon of gene overexpression on X-chromosomes as responsible for female predisposition.
X-polysomy with its abundance of X-chromosomes may represent a nature’s experiment
on the effect of gene dosage on the expression and pathogenesis of SLE. Thus, X-polysomy
should highly suspected for SLE.
Disclosure of Interest
None Declared
Treatment
B25 Canakinumab experience from a pediatric rheumatology center in Istanbul
Mustafa Çakan1, Nuray Aktay Ayaz1, Şerife Gül Karadağ1, Gonca Keskindemirci2
1Pediatric Rheumatology, Kanuni Sultan Süleyman Research And Training Hospital, İstanbul,
Turkey; 2Pediatrics, Kanuni Sultan Süleyman Research And Training Hospital, İstanbul,
Turkey
Correspondence: Nuray Aktay Ayaz
Introduction: Canakinumab is a human monoclonal anti-IL-1β antibody that neutralizes
the activity of IL-1β by binding to it. Canakinumab is used effectively in many of
the AIDs.
Objectives: The aim of this study is to demonstrate diagnosis, demographic features,
indications, and response rates of the patients that have used canakinumab.
Methods: This study was conducted in pediatric rheumatology clinic of Istanbul Kanuni
Sultan Süleyman Research and Training Hospital. The files of the patients that canakinumab
have been used between December 2012 and January 2017 were reviewed.
Results: Canakinumab was used in 23 patients. Diagnosis of the patients were; colchicine
resistant (cr) FMF (15 cases), HIDS (2 cases), CAPS (2 FCAS cases and 1 CINCA case),
sJIA (2 cases), and pyoderma gangrenosum (1 case). Canakinumab has been used for 24.8 months.
Canakinumab was discontinued in 3 patients. In crFMF patients, the reason for use
of biologic agent was resistance to colchicine that was described as having ≥3 attacks
for 6 consecutive months despite maximal colchicine dose in this study. The crFMF
patients had a striking female predominance; 13 girls and 2 boys. Mean age at the
initial symptoms of FMF was 2.6 years. Twelve patients had M694V homozygous mutation,
1 patient had M694V/R761H compound heterozygous mutation and in 2 of the cases we
could not have demonstrated a pathogenic mutation in the MEFV and other AID gene studies.
In 10 of 15 crFMF patients, anakinra was used before canakinumab for 6.7 months. Mean
number of attacks per year before colchicine was 18, after colchicine it was 6.8 and
after biologic agent the number dropped to 0.7. At the time of enrollment, in 6 patients
canakinumab was being used every month and in 8 patients every 3–4 months. Acute phase
reactants regressed dramatically; CRP from 151.2 mg/L to 1 mg/L, SAA from 442.6 mg/L
to 2.2 mg/L, ESR from 48 mm/h to 7 mm/h. Two of the HIDS cases of this cohort were
siblings. Both had V377I mutation in the MVK gene. Anakinra was used for 9 months
before canakinumab and canakinumab was being used for 3 months with resolution of
the attacks. Two FCAS patients were using canakinumab for 5 and 9 months with total
disappearance of rash. CINCA patient did not show dramatic response to IL-1 blockers
with partial control of the acute phase reactants. Canakinumab 12 mg/kg/month with
low dose prednisolone were used and laboratory and clinical parameters are under control.
In one of the sJIA patients canakinumab was being used for 21 months with good response.
But other sJIA case initially followed a polycyclic course and for 28 months canakinumab
was used with a good response but later turned into polyarticular course under canakinumab
treatment. A severe pyoderma gangrenosum patient had failed dapson and anakinra, and
failed also canakinumab that is used for 9 months. We did not observe any side effect
under canakinumab treatment.
Conclusion: In conclusion, canakinumab seem to be effective and safe in patients with
AIDs.
Disclosure of Interest
None Declared
B26 Efficacy of treatment using adalimumab in combination with methotrexate and methotrexate
monotherapy in children with polyarticular Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis and diagnostic
meaning proinflammatory cytokins synovial fluids and blood
Vladimir Keltsev, Lyudmila Grebenkina
Rheumatology, Togliatti City Clinical Hospital #5, Togliatti, Russian Federation
Correspondence: Vladimir Keltsev
Introduction: Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is the most common rheumatic disease
in children and it is characterized by a primary lesion of the joints, organs and
tissues with the formation of multiple organ failure of varying severity.
Objectives: The article describes the results of studying the efficacy and safety
of adalimumab in combination with methotrexate (n = 14) and methotrexate monotherapy
(n = 17) when treating the patients with polyarticular JIA refractory to the basic
immunosuppressive therapy.
Methods: Retrospective analisis of 31 patient with JIA
Results: It was shown that the combination therapy induced the remission of arthritis
in children with JIA in a shorter period of time. It should be noted that adalimumab
in combination with methotrexate was well. tolerated and no serious adverse effects
were recorded. Thus, the introduction of adalimumab in the treatment regimen of children
with JIA refractory to the basic immunosuppressive therapy allowed for the rapid disease
remission while preserving the effect in a significant number of patients during the
following year.
Conclusion: Definition levels cytokins in blood and synovial fluids appears important
investigation for diagnostic and effective therapy Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis in
patients.
Disclosure of Interest
None Declared
B27 The clinical effectiveness of etanercept for treating Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis
in a single center experience
Kwang Nam Kim1, Jong Gyun Ahn2, Young Dae Kim3
1Pediatrics, Hallym University Medical Center, AnYang, Korea, Republic Of; 2Pediatrics,
Severance Children’s Hospital, Yonsei University, Seoul, Korea, Republic Of; 3Pediatrics,
Inje University Paik Hospital, KoYang, Korea, Republic Of
Correspondence: Kwang Nam Kim
Introduction: JIA is a broad term that describes a clinically heterogeneous group
of arthritis of unknown cause. Although none of the curative drug has been developed,
the most important new drug has been introduced such as biologic products. Management
of JIA is based on a combination therapy with MTX/etanercept recently.
Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate efficacy of etanercept in JIA
and to find out the difference efficacy of JIA subtypes. And the second aim is to
announce the our results to the pediatrician who take care of JIA patients. Because
there is few pediatric rheumatologist in Korea.
Methods: JIA patients (n = 53) who have been treated with etanercept during the 2010
through 2016 were chart reviewed retrospectively. Systemic JIA (n = 11). poly JIA
(n = 16). extended olioarthritis (n = 25). ERA (n = 1). Mean age was 9 years (4-17years)
and the sex ratio was 25:28 (boy : girl). We compaired the swollen joints and inflammatory
markers every 3 months.
Results: The mean value of ESR and CRP were decreased within 3 months. Also the mean
swollen joints were significantly decreased within 3 months. The adverse events were
new onset or recurrent uveitis (n = 2). All of these two patients were switched to
adalimumab.
Conclusion: The remarkable and rapid efficacy and the good safety profile of the etanercept.
AntiTNF agents in children are usually well tolerated. RF (−) polyarticular JIA patients
has best outcomes compared with other types. Systemic JIA have significantly improved,
but mean value of ESR and CRP dose not normalized until 15 months. The pathophysiology
of systemic JIA maybe different from that of other subtypes of JIA. However, physicians
should remain alert for potential side-effects, especially reactivated tuberculosis
during treatment with TNF inhibitors. All children should have a documented negative
tuberculosis test before any biological therapy is started.
Disclosure of Interest
None Declared
Vasculitides
B28 Atypical Kawasaki disease with an unresolving pneumonia: a paediatric dilemma
Maria Cristina Maggio1, Rolando Cimaz2, Maria Concetta Failla3, Piera Dones3, Mirella
Collura4, Giovanni Corsello1
1University Department Pro.Sa.M.I. “G. D’Alessandro”, University of Palermo, Palermo,
Italy; 2Pediatric Rheumatology Unit, Neurofarba Department, AOU Meyer, University
of Florence, Florence, Italy; 3Paediatric Infectious Disease Unit, Children Hospital
“G. Di Cristina”, ARNAS Palermo, Palermo, Italy; 4Unit of Paediatric Pneumology and
Cystic Fibrosis, Children Hospital “G. Di Cristina”, ARNAS Palermo, Palermo, Italy
Correspondence: Maria Cristina Maggio
Introduction: Pneumonia is a possible associated radiological founding in Kawasaki
disease (KD). However clinical impact is mild and the relieve is occasional, by chest
radiogram. In a large series of chest radiograms in children with KD, about 15% of
the patients had pathological pictures, mainly interstitial lung changes.
Objectives: Reports in the international literature on lung consolidation as part
of KD or as the presenting symptom of KD are rare. Only a few cases of severe pneumonia
in children affected by KD are reported.
Methods: A 2-year-old male was admitted to our unit with the presence of 5 days of
fever, diffuse maculopapular eruption, conjunctivitis, lips cracking and erythema,
bilateral conjunctivitis, oedema of hands and feet, cervical lymphadenopathy.
Results: He showed: CRP 16.24 mg/dl,, Hb 11.1, WBC count 23.790 (N: 65.5%), platelets
383.000, mild sterile pyuria. Echocardiography performed on the fifth day of the disease
revealed the absence of coronary anomalies. The diagnosis was “typical KD” and he
received IVIG (2 gr/kg) with ASA (50 mg/kg/day).
The child had been afebrile and showed reduction without complete resolution of the
rash. A blood sample showed a significant reduction of CRP (6.09) and WBC (7.590;
N: 37.4%): hence reduced the ASA dose was reduced. However fever started again 3 days
later, in association with rash and conjunctivitis.
Blood sample evidenced: CRP: 9.08; WBC 16.850 (N: 69%); platelet: 731.000; Na: 131;
albumin: 3.2. He received a second dose of IVIG with resolution of fever, rash, conjunctivitis.
ECG and echocardiography were still normal.
For the unexpected course of the disease, the chest radiographs were performed and
revealed consolidation in the right middle lobe and opacity of the pulmonary hilum.
TC confirmed a lung consolidation with pleural effusion. There were no respiratory
symptoms or signs, and the respiratory rate, lung auscultation and oxygen saturation
were normal.
He was treated with several antibiotics, including clarithromycin, ceftriaxone, chloramphenicol,
imipenem and teicoplanin.
Quantiferon, bronchoalveolar lavage with culture and PCR were negative, excluding
an infectious agent. 7 days later, ASA was reduced to the dose of 5 mg/kg, however
fever restarted 48 hours later. The clinical worsening was associated with the following
parameters: CRP: 10.24; WBC 14.100 (N: 69%); platelet: 815.000. Chest ray evidenced
a reduction of the pneumonia. The patient started methylprednisolone (2 mg/kg/day),
associated with ASA (5 mg/kg/day). The clinical course showed the resolution of fever
and the progressive normalization of CRP in 7 days. Chest ray and CT showed a progressive
resolution of pneumonia. The tapering of methylprednisolone till the suspension and
the resolution of the clinical signs was not associated with CAL.
Conclusion: Typical KD in pediatric patients can present with atypical manifestations
that could make difficult the follow-up and create doubt in initial diagnosis, especially
in non-responder patients. The clinical presentation of the child was uncommon. In
fact he initially presented a complete KD however, when he had the relapses, the disease
showed an unresolving pneumonia as the main manifestation of atypical KD.
In literature, the association of KD with unresolving pneumonia is rarely described:
this case, however, showed a singular course: Kawasaki disease started as a “typical”
form and the failure of IVIG treatment was linked to a complicated pneumonia. The
pneumonia did not reveal an infectious aetiology and the child required steroids to
resolve the disease. The real aetiology of pneumonia can explain the favourable course
of the disease, after steroids were started. In conclusion, Atypical KD should be
considered in the differential diagnosis of children with persistent fever and lobar
consolidation unresponsive to antibiotics.
Disclosure of Interest
None Declared
B29 Polyarteritis nodosa in children: nationwide survey of Japan
Abstract withdrawn
B30 A case of childhood systemic polyarteritis nodosa as initial manifestation of
digital gangrene
Jung-Woo Rhim1, Ki-Hwan Kim1, Soo-Young Lee1, Seung-Beom Han1, Jin-Han Kang1, Jae-Hee
Chung2, Soo-Jung Lee3, Dae-Chul Jeong1
1Pediatrics, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, 3Pediatrics,
International St. Mary’s Hospital, Catholic Kwandong University, Incheon, Korea, Republic
Of; 2General Surgery, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul;
3Pediatrics, International St. Mary’s Hospital, Catholic Kwandong University, Incheon,
Korea, Republic Of
Correspondence: Jung-Woo Rhim
Introduction: Childhood polyarteritis nodosa (PAN) is a rare systemic inflammatory
disease characterized by systemic necrotizing vasculitis of the small or medium sized
arteries that leads to infarct, and aneurysms in various organs.
Objectives: We wish to share our experience of systemic polyartertis nodosa.
Methods: Case presentation
Results: A 7 year-old girl was admitted due to sudden onset of painful blackish discoloration
of right 2nd, 4th and left 2nd finger tips from proximal interphalangeal joints with
fever. She could not walk by herself because of myalgia on both lower extremities.
On admission, body temperature was 38.5 °C, and blood pressure 150/86. Physical examination
showed gangrenous change of finger tips and tender swelling on right ankle joints.
Initial laboratory data showed leukocytosis with dominant neutrophils, high C-reactive
protein and ESR. Autoantibodies including ANA and ANCA showed negative. We identified
microscopic hematuria. CT angiography for upper and lower extremities showed diffuse
swelling with soft tissue fatty infiltration on both fingers, but no definite vessel
and its branch abnormalities and renal arteries. Brain MRA showed luminal irregularity
at intracranial major arteries compatible with arteritis, but no definite aneurysm.
Electromyographic findings for motor showed decreased amplitudes in right median and
ulnar nerves. Skin biopsy showed perivascular lymphohistiocytic infiltration compatible
with vasculitis without any immunofluorescent staining. Culture for skin, blood, and
urine was no any organisms. We diagnosed with systemic PAN including skin change,
arthralgia and myalgia, hematuria, histologic findings and neuropathy. We started
with low molecular weight heparin, prostaglandin E for prevention of thrombisis, and
morphin for pain control. She received intravenous immunoglobulin and intravenous
steroid. She was improved symptoms after steroid therapy, but still no changes of
digital gangrene. We changed anti-coagulation therapy to Warfarin. She was tolerable
after oral steroid and warfarin.
Conclusion: We present a girl with systemic polyarteritis nodosa as initial manifestation
of digital gangrene.
Disclosure of Interest
None Declared
B31 The experience in diagnostics and treatment of Kawasaki disease at Saint-Petersburg
State Pediatric Medical University and Saint Petersburg Children’s Hospital №1
Andrei Santimov1, Regina Rupp1, Igor Alekseev2, Natalya Plutova3, Ekaterina Moskvina3,
Marina Kruchina3, Aleksandra Tarasenko3, Natalya Sokolova3, Ekaterina Saveleva3, Ilia
Bogdanov3, Dmitrii Ivanov3, Tatiana Kandrina3, Olga Kopanevich3, Anastasiia Grafskaia3,
Natalia Ignateva3, Daria Pulukchu1, Natalia Pavlova1, Olga Kalashnikova1, Tatiana
Kornishina1, Margarita Dubko1, Vyacheslav Chasnyk1, Mikhail Kostik1
1Saint-Petersburg State Pediatric Medical University, Saint-Petersburg, Russian Federation;
2Saint Petersburg Children’s Hospital №1, Saint-Petersburg, Russian Federation; 3Saint
Petersburg Children’s Hospital №1, Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation
Correspondence: Andrei Santimov
Introduction: Kawasaki disease (KD) is an acute systemic vasculitis of unknown etiology
affecting most often children younger than 5 years of age and characterized by high
fever, bilateral conjunctival hyperemia, mucosal changes of the oropharynx, erythematosus
rash, erythema and indurative edema of the hands and feet, and cervical lymphadenopathy.
Approximately 20–25% of untreated patients develop coronary artery changes with a
range of severity from asymptomatic coronary artery dilatation or aneurysms to giant
coronary artery aneurysms with thrombosis, myocardial infarction and sudden death.
To date there is no official data on the incidence of KD in Russia. In Russia the
disease to date is not enough known to a wider circle of doctors and often goes under
the “mask” of other more common diseases. In Saint-Petersburg since 2010 has dramatically
increased the recognition rate of KD.
Objectives: to review the experience of diagnosis and treatment of KD in the two largest
hospitals in St. Petersburg.
Methods: the retrospective study included data on 30 children (18 boys, 12 girls)
who were hospitalized with a diagnosis of KD in the clinics of Saint-Petersburg State
Pediatric Medical University and Children’s Hospital No. 1 (St. Petersburg) from January
2011 to September 2016. Data is represented by the median and extreme ranges.
Results: the age of the children was 2,8 years (0,2; 4,6), 5 patients (16,7%) were
under the age of 1 year. The children were hospitalized on the 5th days of illness
(1; 14 days), the diagnosis of KD was established on the 9th day of the disease (3;
52). Immediately after diagnosis aspirin have got 27 children (90%). In the early
stages (before 10 days of illness), therapy with intravenous immunoglobulin has received
15 children (50%), 1 of them received intravenous immunoglobulin before 5 days of
illness (on day 3) and has not responded to the treatment. On 11–20 day (immediately
after diagnosis) treatment with intravenous immunoglobulin received 10 children (33,3%),
after which the fever decreased in all patients. Fever was stopped on day 11 (6; 23).
Lesions in coronary arteries by ultrasound were diagnosed in 13 children (43,3%).
The youngest patient who became ill at the age of 3 months and received intravenous
immunoglobulin on the 30th day of illness dead.
Conclusion: KD should always be included in the differential diagnosis in children
of early age with prolonged fever, especially in children of the first year of life,
which is often observed incomplete forms of KD. It is necessary to increase awareness
among clinicians and doctors of ultrasonic diagnostics about KD.
Disclosure of Interest
None Declared
B32 Isolated pulmonary artery involvement in childhood Takayasu arteritis
Shama Sowdagar1, Janani Sankar1, Venkateswari Ramesh1, Mahesh Janarthanan2
1Department of Pediatrics, Kanchi Kamakoti Childs Trust Hospital, Chennai, India;
2Consultant Pediatric Rheumatologist, Kanchi Kamakoti Childs Trust Hospital, Chennai,
India
Correspondence: Shama Sowdagar
Introduction: Takayasu arteritis is rare idiopathic chronic granulomatous inflammatory
disease of the large vessels that involves the aorta or its branches and the pulmonary
arteries.
Objectives: EULAR/PRINTO/PRES Ankara 2008 classification of childhood Takayasu arteritis
requires angiographic abnormalities of the aorta or its main branches and pulmonary
arteries showing aneurysm/dilatation (mandatory criterion) plus one of the five following
criteria: Pulse deficit or claudication, four limbs BP discrepancy, bruits, hypertension
and elevated acute phase reactant. In childhood Takayasu arteritis the thoracic and
abdominal aorta are the most commonly involved vessels.
Methods: We describe the case of an 8 year old girl with Takayasu arteritis presenting
with isolated pulmonary artery involvement.
Results: An 8 year old previously well girl presented with pyrexia of unknown origin
of one month duration. She was initially evaluated at another centre where a routine
chest X-Ray revealed dilated pulmonary vessels and patchy opacities in superior and
lateral segments of right lower lobe and lingual. Though investigations were negative
for tuberculosis she was started on empirical antituberculous therapy. In view of
persistent fever, new onset cough and exertional dyspnoea she was referred to our
centre.
On examination she had grade 2 clubbing, periorbital puffiness, elevated jugular venous
pulse, loud second heart sound. Her 4 limb blood pressure readings were normal and
there was no hypoxia.
Laboratory investigations showed anemia(9.3gms/dL), elevated inflammatory markers(CRP:
120 mg/L; ESR: 80 mm/hr). Chest x- ray showed marginal cardiomegaly with prominent
pulmonary arteries. ECHO showed severe pulmonary hypertension and right ventricular
dysfunction. cANCA was weakly positive and pANCA was negative. MRA chest and abdomen
showed dilated main, right and left pulmonary arteries and focal thickening with narrowing
in the distal right and left pulmonary arteries with dilatation of lobar pulmonary
arteries. The thoracic and abdominal aorta were normal.Clinical history, laboratory
parameters and imaging were suggestive of Takayasu arteritis with isolated pulmonary
arterial involvement.
She was commenced on diltiazem and sildenafil for pulmonary hypertension. For the
vasculitis she was treated with steroids, low dose aspirin and monthly cyclophosphamide.
Conclusion: Involvement of pulmonary arteries is common in Takayasu arteritis. Isolated
pulmonary arteritis though rare, is reported in adult Takayasu disease. To our knowledge
this is the youngest patient to present with isolated pulmonary artery involvement.
Disclosure of Interest
None Declared
B33 Heart failure in childhood Takayasu arteritis: case report and literature review
Iulia E. Szabo1, Claudia Sirbe2, Cristina Pamfil1,3, Laura Damian1, Simona Rednic1,3
1Department of Rheumatology, Emergency Clinical County Hospital, Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
2Department of Pediatrics, Emergency Clinical County Hospital, Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
3Department of Rheumatology, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy,
Cluj-Napoca, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
Correspondence: Iulia E. Szabo
Introduction: Takayasu arteritis (TA) is a chronic granulomatous large vessels panarteritis
predominantly affecting the aorta and its major branches. The diagnosis and treatment
of childhood TA remains a challenge due to (1) differences in clinical spectrum compared
to adult TA, (2) the invasive nature and radiation exposure of conventional angiography
and (3) the paucity of available data regarding treatment options in childhood TA.
Objectives: The aim of this case report was to describe a single-center pediatric
case of TA presenting with heart failure as the main disease manifestation and review
four such cases reported in the literature.
Methods: PubMed, MEDLINE and Google Scholar were screened using the following key
words: “Takayasu”, “Takayasu arteritis”, “heart failure”, “cardiomyopathy”, “dilated
cardiomyopathy”. After applying age, language, article type and text availability
filters, four articles were included in this literature review. Several parameters
were analyzed: age at diagnosis, gender, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF)
on echocardiography, vascular imaging techniques, glucocorticoid regime, immunosuppressive
agents, biological therapy, surgical interventions, angioplasty and response to medical
or surgical treatment.
Results: A 14-year-old girl presented with signs and symptoms of acute heart failure.
Past medical history revealed progressive dyspnea on exertion, cough and claudication
of the lower limbs during the past year. She was repeatedly treated with antibiotics
for community-acquired pneumonia. Physical examination showed high, discordant blood
pressure in the upper limbs (right arm 190/110 mmHg, left arm 150/80 mmHg), no peripheral
arterial pulses in the lower and left upper limbs, basal crackles in both lungs, hepatosplenomegaly
and lower limb edema. Ecocardiography and cardiac magnetic resonance identified severe
left ventricular dilation, diffuse hypokinesia and LVEF of 23%. Magnetic resonance
angiography revealed 75% stenosis of the left common carotid artery, complete occlusion
of the left subclavian artery and 80% stenosis of the descending thoracic aorta. According
to the 2010 EULAR/PRINTO/PRESS classification criteria the diagnosis of TA was established
and induction therapy with pulse methylprednisolone in combination with cyclophosphamide
(0.5-1 g/m2/month, for 6 months) was initiated followed by maintenance therapy with
oral corticosteroids (prednisone 1.6 mg/kg/day). Poor clinical and echocardiographic
improvement was obtained (LVEF 30%) and unfortunately the patient was lost to follow-up.
Database literature search identified four cases of heart failure as chief manifestation
of childhood TA. All patients were females. Ecocardiography showed decreased LVEF
in all cases, with a mean LVEF of 28%. The most common vascular anomaly identified
on computed tomography or magnetic resonance angiography was severe stenosis or occlusion
of the descending aorta. Angiography was available in two patients and revealed a
Numano’s type III TA. Two patients benefited from transcatheter stent implantation
with marked improvement of the cardiac function. One patient underwent bypass grafting
but was lost to follow-up. Treatment with Tocilizumab 8 mg/kg/monthly proved to be
effective and safe in one case report.
Conclusion: Severe stenosis of the thoracic aorta leading to heart failure in children
is rare and difficult to treat. In these cases glucocorticoids and conventional immunosuppressive
agents alone are not able to induce remission and improve cardiac function. More aggressive
strategies such as surgical interventions, angioplasty and biological therapy have
shown to be superior in preserving heart function.
Disclosure of Interest
None Declared
Scleroderma and related syndromes
B34 Localized juvenile extensive scleroderma and systemic lupus erythematosus
Maria Deac1, Cristina Pamfil2,3, Mihaela Sparchez4, Ileana Filipescu1,2, Mirela Parvu5,
Dumitrita Balint6, Ancuta Nicoara1, Simona Rednic1,2,7, Laura Damian1,8
1Emergency Clinical County Hospital, Cluj-Napoca, Romania; 2Rheumatology, Iuliu Hatieganu
University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania; 3Centre for Rare Musculoskeletal
Autoimmune and Autoinflammatory Diseases, Cluj-Napoca, Romania; 4Pediatrics, Iuliu
Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania; 5Rheumatology,
Emergency Clinical County Hospital, Targu-Mures, Romania; 6Emergency Clinical County
Hospital, Targu-Mures, Romania; 7Centre for Rare Musculoskeletal Autoimmune and Autoinflammatory
Diseases, Cluj-Napoca, Romania; 8Rheumatology, Centre for Rare Musculoskeletal Autoimmune
and Autoinflammatory Diseases, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
Correspondence: Cristina Pamfil
Introduction: Juvenile morphea is not always a dermatological disease only of aestethic
concern, as it may be associated with systemic diseases.
Objectives: To present a case of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in a patient with
an extensive morphea in the early childhood.
Methods: A 27-year patient, with an extensive morphea at the age of 6 and a SLE diagnosed
at the age of 18 years, was referred to our tertiary unit for altered clinical status
and the assessment of recent-onset arterial hypertension and right lower limb swelling.
Results: Clinical examination and further investigations revealed polyserositis including
pericarditis, hepatosplenomegaly and no deep venous thrombosis. Laboratory showed
antinuclear antibodies with anti-dsDNA, positive anti-Scl-70 antibodies, C3 and C4
consumption, anemia (7.8 g/dL), thrombocytopenia (65 000 Plt/mmc), increased D-dimers
and a nephrotic-range proteinuria (6 g/24 hours). A higher ferritin (675 mg/dL, normal < 450 mg/dL)
and rare schistocytes on the blood smear were noted. The videocapillaroscopy did not
reveal megacapillaries. The clinical picture of the nephrotic syndrome was modified
by the apparently normal-looking skin (except from a slight hyperpygmentation) involving
the whole left lower limb, actually not distensible due to the former morphea. She
was anticoagulated, treated with cyclophosphamide (Eurolupus scheme), hydroxychloroquine,
low-dose prednisone, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors and albumin, with slow
improvement. Two months later, before the end of the initial cure, an initial unplanned
pregnancy was lost. After azathioprine, hydroxychloroquine and fraxyparine, she successfully
conceived a healthy babygirl, born at term, without complications for the mother.
She is currently well, on azathioprine, hydroxychloroquine, low-dose aspirin and vitamin
D.
Conclusion: Lower-limb morphea in childhood may modify the clinical appearance of
a bilateral edematous syndrome, even when the skin is not much modified. Localized
scleroderma may be accompanied by anti-Scl70 antibodies, even in the absence of a
full systemic sclerosis picture. Informed consent to publish has been obtained from
the patient/parent/guardian.
Funding: PN-II-RU-TE-2014-4-2708
Disclosure of Interest
None Declared