Showing papers by "Maxime Dougados published in 2020"

EULAR recommendations for the management of psoriatic arthritis with pharmacological therapies: 2019 update

Abstract: Objective To update the European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) recommendations for the pharmacological treatment of psoriatic arthritis (PsA). Methods According to the EULAR standardised operating procedures, a systematic literature review was followed by a consensus meeting to develop this update involving 28 international taskforce members in May 2019. Levels of evidence and strengths of recommendations were determined. Results The updated recommendations comprise 6 overarching principles and 12 recommendations. The overarching principles address the nature of PsA and diversity of both musculoskeletal and non-musculoskeletal manifestations; the need for collaborative management and shared decision-making is highlighted. The recommendations provide a treatment strategy for pharmacological therapies. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and local glucocorticoid injections are proposed as initial therapy; for patients with arthritis and poor prognostic factors, such as polyarthritis or monoarthritis/oligoarthritis accompanied by factors such as dactylitis or joint damage, rapid initiation of conventional synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs is recommended. If the treatment target is not achieved with this strategy, a biological disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (bDMARDs) targeting tumour necrosis factor (TNF), interleukin (IL)-17A or IL-12/23 should be initiated, taking into account skin involvement if relevant. If axial disease predominates, a TNF inhibitor or IL-17A inhibitor should be started as first-line disease-modifying antirheumatic drug. Use of Janus kinase inhibitors is addressed primarily after bDMARD failure. Phosphodiesterase-4 inhibition is proposed for patients in whom these other drugs are inappropriate, generally in the context of mild disease. Drug switches and tapering in sustained remission are addressed. Conclusion These recommendations provide stakeholders with an updated consensus on the pharmacological management of PsA, based on a combination of evidence and expert opinion.

2019 update of EULAR recommendations for vaccination in adult patients with autoimmune inflammatory rheumatic diseases

Abstract: To update the European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) recommendations for vaccination in adult patients with autoimmune inflammatory rheumatic diseases (AIIRD) published in 2011. Four systematic literature reviews were performed regarding the incidence/prevalence of vaccine-preventable infections among patients with AIIRD; efficacy, immunogenicity and safety of vaccines; effect of anti-rheumatic drugs on the response to vaccines; effect of vaccination of household of AIIRDs patients. Subsequently, recommendations were formulated based on the evidence and expert opinion. The updated recommendations comprise six overarching principles and nine recommendations. The former address the need for an annual vaccination status assessment, shared decision-making and timing of vaccination, favouring vaccination during quiescent disease, preferably prior to the initiation of immunosuppression. Non-live vaccines can be safely provided to AIIRD patients regardless of underlying therapy, whereas live-attenuated vaccines may be considered with caution. Influenza and pneumococcal vaccination should be strongly considered for the majority of patients with AIIRD. Tetanus toxoid and human papilloma virus vaccination should be provided to AIIRD patients as recommended for the general population. Hepatitis A, hepatitis B and herpes zoster vaccination should be administered to AIIRD patients at risk. Immunocompetent household members of patients with AIIRD should receive vaccines according to national guidelines, except for the oral poliomyelitis vaccine. Live-attenuated vaccines should be avoided during the first 6 months of life in newborns of mothers treated with biologics during the second half of pregnancy. These 2019 EULAR recommendations provide an up-to-date guidance on the management of vaccinations in patients with AIIRD.

Efficacy of pharmacological treatment in rheumatoid arthritis: a systematic literature research informing the 2019 update of the EULAR recommendations for management of rheumatoid arthritis.

Abstract: Objectives To inform the 2019 update of the European League against Rheumatism (EULAR) recommendations for the management of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Methods A systematic literature research (SLR) to investigate the efficacy of any disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) (conventional synthetic (cs)DMARD, biological (b) and biosimilar DMARD, targeted synthetic (ts)DMARD) or glucocorticoid (GC) therapy in patients with RA was done by searching MEDLINE, Embase and the Cochrane Library for articles published between 2016 and 8 March 2019. Results 234 abstracts were selected for detailed assessment, with 136 finally included. They comprised the efficacy of bDMARDs versus placebo or other bDMARDs, efficacy of Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors (JAKi) across different patient populations and head-to-head of different bDMARDs versus JAKi or other bDMARDs. Switching of bDMARDs to other bDMARDs or tsDMARDs, strategic trials and tapering studies of bDMARDs, csDMARDs and JAKi were assessed. The drugs evaluated included abatacept, adalimumab, ABT-122, baricitinib, certolizumab pegol, SBI-087, CNTO6785, decernotinib, etanercept, filgotinib, golimumab, GCs, GS-9876, guselkumab, hydroxychloroquine, infliximab, leflunomide, mavrilimumab, methotrexate, olokizumab, otilimab, peficitinib, rituximab, sarilumab, salazopyrine, secukinumab, sirukumab, tacrolimus, tocilizumab, tofacitinib, tregalizumab, upadacitinib, ustekinumab and vobarilizumab. The efficacy of many bDMARDs and tsDMARDs was shown. Switching to another tumour necrosis factor inhibitor (TNFi) or non-TNFi bDMARDs after TNFi treatment failure is efficacious. Tapering of DMARDs is possible in patients achieving long-standing stringent clinical remission; in patients with residual disease activity (including patients in LDA) the risk of flares is increased during the tapering. Biosimilars are non-inferior to their reference products. Conclusion This SLR informed the task force regarding the evidence base of various therapeutic regimen for the development of the update of EULAR’s RA management recommendation.

Dual neutralisation of interleukin-17A and interleukin-17F with bimekizumab in patients with active ankylosing spondylitis: results from a 48-week phase IIb, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, dose-ranging study.

Abstract: Objectives Bimekizumab selectively neutralises both interleukin (IL)-17A and IL-17F. We report efficacy and safety in a phase IIb dose-ranging study in patients with active ankylosing spondylitis (AS). Methods Adults with AS (fulfilling modified New York criteria) were randomised 1:1:1:1:1 to bimekizumab 16 mg, 64 mg, 160 mg, 320 mg or placebo every 4 weeks for 12 weeks (double-blind period). At week 12, patients receiving bimekizumab 16 mg, 64 mg or placebo were re-randomised 1:1 to bimekizumab 160 mg or 320 mg every 4 weeks to week 48; other patients continued on their initial dose (dose-blind period). The primary end point was Assessment of SpondyloArthritis international Society (ASAS) 40 response at week 12 (non-responder imputation (NRI) for missing data). Results 303 patients were randomised: bimekizumab 16 mg (n=61), 64 mg (n=61), 160 mg (n=60), 320 mg (n=61) or placebo (n=60). At week 12, significantly more bimekizumab-treated patients achieved ASAS40 vs placebo (NRI: 29.5%–46.7% vs 13.3%; p Conclusions Bimekizumab provided rapid and sustained improvements in key outcome measures in patients with active AS, with no unexpected safety findings versus previous studies. Trial registration number NCT02963506.

Efficacy and safety of ixekizumab through 52 weeks in two phase 3, randomised, controlled clinical trials in patients with active radiographic axial spondyloarthritis (COAST-V and COAST-W)

Abstract: Objectives To investigate the efficacy and safety of ixekizumab for up to 52 weeks in two phase 3 studies of patients with active radiographic axial spondyloarthritis (r-axSpA) who were biological disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (bDMARD)-naive (COAST-V) or tumour necrosis factor inhibitor (TNFi)-experienced (COAST-W). Methods Adults with active r-axSpA were randomised 1:1:1:1 (n=341) to 80 mg ixekizumab every 2 (IXE Q2W) or 4 weeks (IXE Q4W), placebo (PBO) or 40 mg adalimumab Q2W (ADA) in COAST-V and 1:1:1 (n=316) to IXE Q2W, IXE Q4W or PBO in COAST-W. At week 16, patients receiving ixekizumab continued their assigned treatment; patients receiving PBO or ADA were rerandomised 1:1 to IXE Q2W or IXE Q4W (PBO/IXE, ADA/IXE) through week 52. Results In COAST-V, Assessment of SpondyloArthritis international Society 40 (ASAS40) responses rates (intent-to-treat population, non-responder imputation) at weeks 16 and 52 were 48% and 53% (IXE Q4W); 52% and 51% (IXE Q2W); 36% and 51% (ADA/IXE); 19% and 47% (PBO/IXE). Corresponding ASAS40 response rates in COAST-W were 25% and 34% (IXE Q4W); 31% and 31% (IXE Q2W); 14% and 39% (PBO/IXE). Both ixekizumab regimens sustained improvements in disease activity, physical function, objective markers of inflammation, QoL, health status and overall function up to 52 weeks. Safety through 52 weeks of ixekizumab was consistent with safety through 16 weeks. Conclusion The significant efficacy demonstrated with ixekizumab at week 16 was sustained for up to 52 weeks in bDMARD-naive and TNFi-experienced patients. bDMARD-naive patients initially treated with ADA demonstrated further numerical improvements after switching to ixekizumab. Safety findings were consistent with the known safety profile of ixekizumab. Trial registration number NCT02696785/NCT02696798.

Development of ASAS quality standards to improve the quality of health and care services for patients with axial spondyloarthritis

Abstract: Objectives The Assessment of SpondyloArthritis International Society (ASAS) aimed to develop a set of quality standards (QS) to help improve the quality of healthcare provided to adult patients affected by axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) worldwide. Methods An ASAS task force developed a set of QS using a stepwise approach. First, key areas for quality improvement were identified, discussed, rated and agreed on. Thereafter, areas were prioritised and statements for the most important key areas were phrased on consensus. Appropriate quality measures were defined to allow quantification of the QS at the community level. Results The ASAS task force, consisting of 20 rheumatologists, two physiotherapists and two patients, selected and proposed 34 potential key areas for quality improvement which were then commented by 140 ASAS members and patients. Within that process three new key areas came up, which led to a re-evaluation of all 37 key areas by 120 ASAS members and patients. Five key areas were identified as most important to determine quality of care: referral including rapid access, rheumatology assessment, treatment, education/self-management and comorbidities. Finally, nine QS were agreed on and endorsed by the whole ASAS membership. Conclusions ASAS successfully developed the first set of QS to help improving healthcare for adult patients with axSpA. Even though it may currently not be realistic to achieve the QS in all healthcare systems, they provide high-quality of care framework for patients with axSpA that should be aimed for.

Fri0335 the effect of tofacitinib on residual pain in patients with psoriatic arthritis

Abstract: Background: Current treatments for PsA have proven effective in reducing patient (pt)-reported pain;1,2 however, residual pain often remains. Tofacitinib is an oral Janus kinase inhibitor for the treatment of PsA. Objectives: This descriptive analysis evaluated the effect of tofacitinib, adalimumab and placebo on residual pain in pts with PsA whose inflammation was attenuated after 3 months of therapy. Methods: Data were included from OPAL Broaden (NCT01877668), a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled Phase 3 trial of 12 months’ duration in pts with PsA.3 Pts were randomised to receive tofacitinib 5 mg twice daily (BID), tofacitinib 10 mg BID, adalimumab 40 mg subcutaneous injection once every 2 weeks or placebo. This analysis assessed pts with ‘residual pain’ at Month (M)3. Residual pain was considered as pain in pts with complete attenuation of inflammation at M3, defined by a swollen joint count (SJC) of 0 and CRP levels Results: Demographics and baseline disease characteristics have previously been reported in the primary study, and were generally similar between treatment groups.3 At M3, 100/422 (23.7%) pts with PsA had achieved SJC of 0 and CRP Conclusion: Changes from baseline in pain and absolute pain at M3 suggest that in pts with PsA whose inflammation has been completely attenuated, tofacitinib might have an effect on residual pain not obviously attributable to inflammation. However, the sample population was small, and there were large standard deviations. To confirm these results and to understand the mechanisms by which tofacitinib may improve residual pain, a meta-analysis will be performed using individual participant data from pts with rheumatic disease who have participated in tofacitinib randomised controlled trials. References: [1]Gladman et al. Ann Rheum Dis 2007;66:163-68. [2]Gladman et al. Arthritis Care Res 2014;66:1085-92. [3]Mease et al. NEJM 2017;377:1537-50. Acknowledgments: Study sponsored by Pfizer Inc. Medical writing support was provided by Mark Bennett of CMC Connect and funded by Pfizer Inc. Disclosure of Interests: Maxime Dougados Grant/research support from: AbbVie, Eli Lilly, Merck, Novartis, Pfizer and UCB Pharma, Consultant of: AbbVie, Eli Lilly, Merck, Novartis, Pfizer and UCB Pharma, Speakers bureau: AbbVie, Eli Lilly, Merck, Novartis, Pfizer and UCB Pharma, Desiree van der Heijde Consultant of: AbbVie, Amgen, Astellas, AstraZeneca, BMS, Boehringer Ingelheim, Celgene, Cyxone, Daiichi, Eisai, Eli-Lilly, Galapagos, Gilead Sciences, Inc., Glaxo-Smith-Kline, Janssen, Merck, Novartis, Pfizer, Regeneron, Roche, Sanofi, Takeda, UCB Pharma; Director of Imaging Rheumatology BV, Clifton Bingham Grant/research support from: Bristol-Myers Squibb, Consultant of: Bristol-Myers Squibb, Peter C. Taylor Grant/research support from: Celgene, Eli Lilly and Company, Galapagos, and Gilead, Consultant of: AbbVie, Biogen, Eli Lilly and Company, Fresenius, Galapagos, Gilead, GlaxoSmithKline, Janssen, Nordic Pharma, Pfizer Roche, and UCB, Lara Fallon Shareholder of: Pfizer Inc, Employee of: Pfizer Inc, John Woolcott Shareholder of: Pfizer Inc, Employee of: Pfizer Inc, Yves Brault Shareholder of: Pfizer France, Employee of: Pfizer France, Lisy Wang Shareholder of: Pfizer Inc, Employee of: Pfizer Inc, Meriem Kessouri Shareholder of: Pfizer France, Employee of: Pfizer France

Maintenance of clinical remission in early axial spondyloarthritis following certolizumab pegol dose reduction

Abstract: Background The best strategy for maintaining clinical remission in patients with axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) has not been defined. C-OPTIMISE compared dose continuation, reduction and withdrawal of the tumour necrosis factor inhibitor certolizumab pegol (CZP) following achievement of sustained remission in patients with early axSpA. Methods C-OPTIMISE was a two-part, multicentre phase 3b study in adults with early active axSpA (radiographic or non-radiographic). During the 48-week open-label induction period, patients received CZP 200 mg every 2 weeks (Q2W). At Week 48, patients in sustained remission (Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Score (ASDAS) 3.5 at any time point) during the double-blind period. Results At Week 48, 43.9% (323/736) patients achieved sustained remission, of whom 313 were randomised to CZP full maintenance dose, CZP reduced maintenance dose or placebo. During Weeks 48 to 96, 83.7% (87/104), 79.0% (83/105) and 20.2% (21/104) of patients receiving the full maintenance dose, reduced maintenance dose or placebo, respectively, were flare-free (p Conclusions Patients with early axSpA who achieve sustained remission at 48 weeks can reduce their CZP maintenance dose; however, treatment should not be completely discontinued due to the high risk of flare following CZP withdrawal. Trial registration number NCT02505542, ClinicalTrials.gov.

Is treat-to-target really working in rheumatoid arthritis? a longitudinal analysis of a cohort of patients treated in daily practice (RA BIODAM)

Abstract: Objectives To investigate whether following a treat-to-target (T2T)-strategy in daily clinical practice leads to more patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) meeting the remission target. Methods RA patients from 10 countries starting/changing conventional synthetic or biological disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs were assessed for disease activity every 3 months for 2 years (RA BIODAM (BIOmarkers of joint DAMage) cohort). Per visit was decided whether a patient was treated according to a T2T-strategy with 44-joint disease activity score (DAS44) remission (DAS44 Results In total 4356 visits of 571 patients (mean (SD) age: 56 (13) years, 78% female) were included. Appropriate application of T2T was found in 59% of the visits. T2T (vs no T2T) did not yield a higher likelihood of DAS44 remission 3 months later (OR (95% CI): 1.03 (0.92 to 1.16)), but sustained T2T resulted in an increased likelihood of achieving DAS44 remission (OR: 1.19 (1.03 to 1.39)). Similar results were seen with DAS28-ESR remission. For more stringent definitions (CDAI, SDAI and ACR/EULAR Boolean remission), T2T was consistently positively associated with remission (OR range: 1.16 to 1.29), and sustained T2T had a more pronounced effect on remission (OR range: 1.49 to 1.52). Conclusion In daily clinical practice, the correct application of a T2T-strategy (especially sustained T2T) in patients with RA leads to higher rates of remission.

Points to consider for the treatment of immune-mediated inflammatory diseases with Janus kinase inhibitors: a systematic literature research

Abstract: Objectives Review of efficacy and safety of Janus kinase (JAK) inhibition in immune-mediated inflammatory diseases (IMIDs). Methods A systematic literature research (SLR) of all publications on JAK inhibitors (JAKi) treatment published until March 2019 using MEDLINE, EMBASE and the Cochrane Library. Efficacy and safety were assessed in randomised controlled trials (RCTs), integrating long-term extension periods additionally for safety evaluation. Results 3454 abstracts were screened with 85 included in the final analysis (efficacy and RCT safety: n=72; safety only: n=13). Efficacy of RCTs investigating tofacitinib (TOFA, n=27), baricitinib (BARI, n=9), upadacitinib (UPA, n=14), filgotinib (FILGO, n=7), decernotinib (DEC, n=3) and peficitinib (PEF, n=7) was evaluated. Six head-to-head trials comparing JAKi with tumour necrosis factor inhibitors (TNFi) were included. Efficacy of JAKi was shown in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) for all agents, psoriatic arthritis (TOFA, FILGO), ankylosing spondylitis (TOFA, FILGO), systemic lupus erythematosus (BARI), chronic plaque psoriasis (TOFA, BARI, PEF), ulcerative colitis (TOFA, UPA), Crohn's disease (UPA, FILGO) and atopic dermatitis (TOFA, BARI, UPA). Safety analysis of 72 RCTs, one cohort study and 12 articles on long-term extension studies showed increased risks for infections, especially herpes zoster, serious infections and numerically higher rates of venous thromboembolic events. No increased malignancy rates or major adverse cardiac events were observed. Conclusion JAKi provide good efficacy compared to placebo (and to TNFi in RA and Pso) across various IMIDs with an acceptable safety profile. This SLR informed the task force on points to consider for the treatment of IMIDs with JAKi with the available evidence.

Response to: 'Comment on: 'EULAR recommendations for the management of psoriatic arthritis with pharmacological therapies: 2019 update' by Gossec et al' by Wei et al

Abstract: We thank Wei et al 1 for their correspondence on the recently published European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) recommendations for the management of psoriatic arthritis (PsA).2 The authors of this correspondence raise some interesting points. The first point relates to the role of cyclosporine A (CsA) in the treatment of patients with psoriatic disease. The authors mention that this drug is often used in Asia, in particular in skin psoriasis. They suggest that CsA could be proposed for PsA. While CsA is recommended for the management of skin psoriasis, …

Clinical manifestations, disease activity and disease burden of radiographic versus non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis over 5 years of follow-up in the DESIR cohort.

Abstract: Objectives To compare the clinical manifestations, disease activity and disease burden between patients with radiographic (r-axSpA) and non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis (nr-axSpA) over a 5-year follow-up period in the Devenir des Spondylarthropathies Indifferenciees Recentes (DESIR) cohort. Methods Patients from the DESIR cohort who had X-ray images of the sacroiliac joints available at baseline and did not leave the study during the 5-year follow-up period because of a diagnosis other than axSpA were included. A unilateral rating of ‘obvious sacroiliitis’ by the local reader was considered sufficient for classification as r-axSpA. The incidence of first episodes of peripheral and extra-rheumatic manifestations was compared between the two groups using the incidence rate ratio and Cox regressions adjusted for sex, age and tumour necrosis factor blocker (TNFb) intake. Mean values of patient-reported outcomes (PROs) and days of sick leave over 5 years of follow-up were compared using mixed models adjusted for sex, age, TNFb intake and baseline values. Results In total, 669 patients were included, of whom 185 (27.7%) and 484 (72.3%) were classified as r-axSpA and nr-axSpA, respectively. At baseline, the r-axSpA patients showed a significantly higher prevalence of males. After adjusting for age, sex and TNFb intake, Cox regressions for peripheral and extra-rheumatic manifestations did not show any significant differences between groups. Mixed models also showed similar mean levels in PROs and days of sick leave between groups over time. Conclusion The incidence of peripheral and extra-rheumatic manifestations as well as the disease burden over time remained similar between r-axSpA and nr-axSpA groups after adjusting for intermediate variables. Trial registration number NCT01648907

Response to: 'Correspondence on 'EULAR recommendations for the management of psoriatic arthritis with pharmacological therapies: 2019 update' by Fallon et al.

Abstract: We thank Fallon and Jones1 for their correspondence on the European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) recommendations for the management of psoriatic arthritis (PsA) and their comments on the clarity of the specific recommendation regarding the use of Janus kinase inhibitors (JAKi) in the management of PsA,2 which was based on the associated systematic literature research (SLR).3 We appreciate the support of the authors to provide as much clarification to the wording of our recommendations as possible, since these are the currently most up-to-date literature for the current and future treatment of patients with PsA. In their remarks, Fallon and Jones refer to recommendation 7 and especially the wording on the safety signals of tofacitinib …

Considerations for improving quality of care of patients with rheumatoid arthritis and associated comorbidities

Abstract: Objective Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune inflammatory disorder with a global prevalence of approximately 0.5–1%. Patients with RA are at an increased risk of developing comorbidities (eg, cardiovascular disease, pulmonary disease, diabetes and depression). Despite this, there are limited recommendations for the management and implementation of associated comorbidities. This study aimed to identify good practice interventions in the care of RA and associated comorbidities. Methods A combination of primary research (180+ interviews with specialists across 12 European rheumatology centres) and secondary research (literature review of existing publications and guidelines/recommendations) were used to identify challenges in management and corresponding good practice interventions. Findings were prioritised and reviewed by a group of 18 rheumatology experts including rheumatologists, comorbidity experts, a patient representative and a highly specialised nurse. Results Challenges throughout the patient pathway (including delays in diagnosis and referral, shortage of rheumatologists, limited awareness of primary care professionals) and 18 good practice interventions were identified in the study. The expert group segmented and prioritised interventions according to three distinct stages of the disease: (1) suspected RA, (2) recent diagnosis of RA and (3) established RA. Examples of good practice interventions included enabling self-management (self-monitoring and disease management support, for example, lifestyle adaptations); early arthritis clinic; rapid access to care (online referral, triage, ultrasound-guided diagnosis); dedicated comorbidity specialists; enhanced communication with primary care (hotline, education sessions); and integrating patient registries into daily clinical practice. Conclusion Learning from implementation of good practice interventions in centres across Europe provides an opportunity to more widely improved care for patients with RA and associated comorbidities.

Adherence to Treat-to-target Management in Rheumatoid Arthritis and Associated Factors: Data from the International RA BIODAM Cohort

Abstract: Objective Compelling evidence supports a treat-to-target (T2T) strategy for optimal outcomes in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). There is limited knowledge regarding the factors that impede implementation of T2T, particularly in a setting where adherence to T2T is protocol specified. We aimed to assess clinical factors that associate with failure to adhere to T2T. Methods RA patients from 10 countries starting or changing conventional synthetic disease-modifying anti-rheumatic (csDMARDs) drugs and/or starting tumor necrosis factor inhibitor (TNFi) were followed for 2 years (RA BIODAM cohort). Participating physicians were required per-protocol to adhere to the T2T strategy. Factors influencing adherence to T2T low disease activity (T2T-LDA; DAS≤2.4) were analyzed in two types of binomial generalized estimating equations (GEE) models: i. including only baseline features (baseline model); ii. Modelling variables that inherently vary over time as such (longitudinal model). Results A total of 571 patients were recruited and 439 (76.9%) completed 2-year followup. Failure of adherence to T2T-LDA was noted in 1765 (40.5%) visits. In the baseline multivariable model, high number of comorbidities (OR (95%CI): 1.10 (1.02; 1.19)), smoking (1.32 (1.08; 1.63)) and high number of tender joints (1.03 (1.02; 1.04)), were independently associated with failure to implement T2T, while ACPA/RF positivity (0.63 (0.50; 0.80)), was a significant facilitator of T2T. Results were similar in the longitudinal model. Conclusion Lack of adherence to T2T in the RA BIODAM cohort was evident in a substantial proportion despite being a protocol requirement and this could be predicted by clinical features.

Referring early arthritis patients within 6 weeks versus 12 weeks after symptom onset: an observational cohort study

Abstract: Summary Background The first recommendation of the European League Against Rheumatism for the management of early arthritis states that patients should be referred to, and seen by, a rheumatologist within 6 weeks after symptom onset. However, implementation of this recommendation is a challenge, and evidence supporting this timeframe compared with longer timeframes is absent. Therefore, we aimed to investigate whether visiting a rheumatologist within 6 weeks of symptom onset relates to improved long-term outcomes compared with visiting a rheumatologist between 7 and 12 weeks after symptom onset. Methods In this observation cohort study, consecutive patients with rheumatoid arthritis from the Leiden Early Arthritis Clinic (EAC) and the French Etude et Suivi des Polyarthrites Indifferenciees Recentes (ESPOIR) were included. In this analysis, we included patients who were diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis and classified according to 1987 American College of Rheumatology criteria, and with symptom onset and remission data available. Patients were categorised into groups based on time between symptom onset and first encounter with a rheumatologist: within 6 weeks, between 7 weeks and 12 weeks, and after 12 weeks. The main outcomes were sustained disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD)-free remission and radiographic progression. Multivariable Cox regression, linear mixed models, and meta-analyses were used. Findings 1025 patients with rheumatoid arthritis included in the EAC between Jan 1, 1996, and Dec 31, 2017, and 514 patients with rheumatoid arthritis included in ESPOIR between Nov 1, 2002, and April 30, 2005, were included in this analysis. Median follow-up was 7·1 years (IQR 3·9–12·2) in the EAC and 10·0 years (9·0–10·0) in ESPOIR. After 7 years of follow-up in the EAC, 30 (24%) of 127 patients with a time to encounter of 6 weeks or less, 45 (20%) of 223 patients with a time of 7–12 weeks, and 100 (15%) of 675 patients with a time of more than 12 weeks achieved sustained DMARD-free remission. After 10 years of follow-up in ESPOIR, three (27%) of 11 patients with a time to encounter of 6 weeks or less, 11 (11%) of 100 patients with a time of 7–12 weeks, and 41 (10%) of 403 patients with a time of more than 12 weeks had sustained DMARD-free remission. In the EAC multivariable analysis, patients who encountered a rheumatologist within 6 weeks obtained sustained DMARD-free remission more often than those seen between 7 and 12 weeks (hazard ratio [HR] 1·59 [95% CI 1·02–2·49], p=0·042), and after 12 weeks (1·54 [1·04–2·29], p=0·032). In the ESPOIR multivariable analysis, similar but non-significant effects were observed (HR 2·81 [95% CI 0·75–10·53], p=0·12, for within 6 weeks vs 7–12 weeks and 3·05 [0·89–10·49], p=0·077, for within 6 weeks vs more than 12 weeks). The meta-analysis of both cohorts showed that the time to encounter of 6 weeks or less was associated with a higher chance of achieving sustained DMARD-free remission than a time of 7–12 weeks (HR 1·69 [95% CI 1·10–2·57], p=0·016) and a time of more than 12 weeks (1·67 [1·08–2·58], p=0·020). The multivariable analysis showed that patients who encountered a rheumatologist within 6 weeks had similar radiographic progression to those seen between 7 and 12 weeks in both cohorts (β=1·00 [95% CI 0·95–1·05], p=0·96, in the EAC and 0·93 [0·80–1·07], p=0·30, in ESPOIR) and to those seen after 12 weeks (β=0·96 [95% CI 0·92–1·00], p=0·064, in the EAC and 0·89 [0·77–1·02], p=0·10, in ESPOIR). In the meta-analysis, a time to encounter of 6 weeks or less was not associated with less radiographic progression than a time of 7–12 weeks (β=0·99 [95% CI 0·95–1·04], p=0·75) but was associated with less radiographic progression than a time of more than 12 weeks (0·95 [0·91–0·99], p=0·028). Interpretation Visiting a rheumatologist within 6 weeks of symptom onset had benefits for achieving sustained DMARD-free remission, but not for radiographic progression. Funding European Research Council, Dutch Arthritis Society, Merck Sharp & Dohme, INSERM, The French Society of Rheumatology, Pfizer, AbbVie, Lilly, and Sanofi.

GlutenSpA trial: protocol for a randomised double-blind placebo-controlled trial of the impact of a gluten-free diet on quality of life in patients with axial spondyloarthritis.

Abstract: Introduction Subclinical intestinal inflammation and gut dysbiosis have been reported in patients with spondyloarthritis (SpA). In common practice, rheumatologists are increasingly confronted with patients with inflammatory rheumatism who are on gluten-free diets (GFDs), despite the lack of reliable data from controlled studies. This study aims to determine the impact of a GFD on the quality of life of patients with axial SpA. Methods and analysis The GlutenSpA study is a 24-week, randomised, double-blinded, placebo-controlled, multicentre trial. Patients with axial SpA (n=200) will follow a 16-week GFD and be randomly assigned (1:1) to an experimental or control arm. In the experimental arm with receive at least 6 gluten-free breads per day + 200 g of gluten-free penne pasta per week + 6 rice flavour capsules per day. The control arm will receive at least 6 gluten-containing breads per day + 200 g of gluten-containing penne pasta per week + 6 vital gluten-containing capsules per day. The primary end-point is the variation in Assessment of SpondyloArthritis International Society—Health Index (ASAS-HI) questionnaire between week 16 and baseline. A second open-label period of 8 weeks will follow the intervention period, during which the patient will be free to decide whether they will follow the GFD. The secondary outcomes comprise several patient-reported outcomes (SpA activity (Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index)), fatigue (Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy), depression (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale), functional disability index (Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Functional Index)), variations in body mass index and Homeostasis Model Assessment Index and variations in the abundance and type of bacterial species found in the gut microbiota for a subgroup of patients (n=40). The data will be analysed using the intention-to-treat principle. The regional ethics committee (CPP Nord-ouest IV) has approved the study (IDRCB 2018-A00309-46). The results of the trial will be submitted for publication in peer-reviewed journals. The authors have no relationship that may have influenced the submitted work. Trial registration number NCT04274374.

5-year follow-up of spinal and sacroiliac MRI abnormalities in early axial spondyloarthritis: data from the DESIR cohort

Abstract: Objective To study changes on MRI of the spine and sacroiliac joint (SIJ) in early axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) over time. Methods In the Devenir des Spondyloarthropathies Indifferenciees Recentes cohort, MRI-spine and MRI-SIJ at baseline and 2 and 5 years were scored by central readers for bone marrow oedema (BME), fatty lesions, erosions, sclerosis, ankylosis and spinal bone spurs. The average mean number of lesions was reported or the agreement of ≥2 out of 3 readers for binary outcomes. Net progression was calculated by subtracting the patients that ‘improved’ from those that ‘worsened’ divided by the total number of patients. Results Over 5 years, in 155 patients with axSpA (mean age 33.5 (SD 8.9) years, symptom duration 1.4 (0.8) years, 63% human leucocyte antigen+, 14% modified New York+), BME on MRI-SIJ decreased by a mean Spondyloarthritis Research Consortium of Canada score of 1.4 (SD 6.5) (p=0.009). The largest BME decrease was observed in patients using biological disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs at 5 years. Spinal BME increased by 0.3 (4.6) (p=0.41). Fatty lesions and/or erosions on MRI-SIJ increased by a mean of 1.0 (SD 2.6) (p Conclusion Over 5 years, BME on MRI-SIJ decreased and spinal BME remained similar, but numerically, little progression of structural lesions on MRI of the SIJ and spine was seen.

Induction of Sustained Clinical Remission in Early Axial Spondyloarthritis Following Certolizumab Pegol Treatment: 48-Week Outcomes from C-OPTIMISE.

Abstract: Achievement of remission is a key treatment goal for patients with axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA). C-OPTIMISE assessed achievement of sustained clinical remission in patients with axSpA, including radiographic (r) and non-radiographic (nr) axSpA, during certolizumab pegol (CZP) treatment, and subsequent maintenance of remission following CZP dose continuation, dose reduction or withdrawal. Here, we report outcomes from the first 48 weeks (induction period) of C-OPTIMISE, during which patients received open-label CZP. C-OPTIMISE (NCT02505542) was a two-part, multicenter, phase 3b study in adult patients with early axSpA (r-/nr-axSpA), including a 48-week open-label induction period followed by a 48-week maintenance period. Patients with active adult-onset axSpA, < 5 years’ symptom duration, and fulfilling Assessment of SpondyloArthritis international Society classification criteria, were included. During the induction period, patients received a loading dose of CZP 400 mg at weeks 0, 2, and 4, followed by CZP 200 mg every 2 weeks (Q2W) up to week 48. The main outcome of the 48-week induction period was the achievement of sustained clinical remission (defined as an Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Score [ASDAS] < 1.3 at week 32 and < 2.1 at week 36 [or vice versa], and < 1.3 at week 48). In total, 736 patients (407 with r-axSpA, 329 with nr-axSpA) were enrolled into the study. At week 48, 43.9% (323/736) of patients achieved sustained remission, including 42.8% (174/407) of patients with r-axSpA and 45.3% (149/329) with nr-axSpA. Patients also demonstrated substantial improvements in axSpA symptoms, MRI outcomes and quality of life measures. Adverse events occurred in 67.9% (500/736) of patients, of which 6.0% (44/736) were serious. Over 40% of patients with early axSpA achieved sustained remission during 48 weeks of open-label CZP treatment. Additionally, patients across the axSpA spectrum demonstrated substantial improvements in imaging outcomes and quality of life following treatment. No new safety signals were identified. NCT02505542.

Impact of a pharmacist-led programme on biologics knowledge and adherence in patients with spondyloarthritis.

Abstract: OBJECTIVES In spondyloarthritis (SpA), improving patients' knowledge on their biologics is a key factor to enhance adherence. The information given to the patient has to ensure the acquisition of safety skills regarding their treatment. The aims of this trial were to evaluate the impact of a pharmacist's educational interview on knowledge and adherence to biologics in these patients. METHODS Consecutive adult patients with well-controlled axial SpA, stable on biologics were enrolled in a randomised, controlled, single-centre, open-label, 6-month trial. A pharmacist's educational interview provided information on biologics management at baseline in the intervention group and at month 6 in the control group. The changes in a weighted knowledge score concerning the management of biologics and the change in the Medication Possession Ratio (MPR) at month-6 were primary outcomes. The changes in disease activity (BASDAI) and patients' satisfaction regarding the pharmacists' interview were secondary outcomes. RESULTS Patients' characteristics at baseline were comparable among the 89 included patients (46 in the intervention group, 43 in the control group). The patient's knowledge score concerning biologics management improved at a greater magnitude in the educational group (+11.0±11.5 vs. +3.0 ±10.6 in the intervention versus the control group, respectively, p<0.0001). There was also a trend in a better adherence (+2.2±13.9 vs. -0.6±18.9 in the intervention versus the control group, respectively, p=0.691). The disease activity remained stable in both groups. CONCLUSIONS This study is strongly in favour of the benefit of a pharmacist's educational interview in the management of patients with axial SpA.

Safety of surgery in patients with rheumatoid arthritis treated with tocilizumab: data from the French (REGistry -RoAcTEmra) Regate registry.

Abstract: OBJECTIVES To investigate the frequency and risk factors of postoperative complications in RA patients treated with tocilizumab (TCZ). METHODS The French registry REGATE recruited 1496 RA patients receiving TCZ in routine care. Data from patients treated with TCZ who underwent surgery were reviewed. Frequency of post-surgery complications was collected and compared in patients with and without complications in order to identify factors associated with complications. Similar analysis was performed in patients with postoperative infection. RESULTS We identified 167 patients who underwent 175 surgical procedures including 103 orthopaedic surgeries (58.9%). The patients were mainly women (84%) with a mean disease duration of 14.96±11.29 years. The mean delay between surgery and the last TCZ infusion was 4.94±1.74 weeks. Fifteen patients experienced 15 complications (8.6%) with 10 severe infections including 5 surgical site infections (33.3%). There was no significant difference between patients with and without complications. In multivariate analysis, previous treatment with rituximab in the previous year tended to be associated with postoperative complications (OR: 3.27, IC95% 0.92-11.49, p=0.06). Concerning postoperative infections, diabetes mellitus tended to be associated with this complication (OR: 3.73, IC95% 0.88-15.79, p=0.06) in multivariate analysis. CONCLUSIONS In RA patients treated with TCZ in perfusion, the rate of surgical complications was low: 8.6%. The median time between surgery and last infusion was relatively short according to half-life of TCZ but did not influence the rate of postoperative complications.

Relationship between disease activity status or clinical response and patient-reported outcomes in patients with non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis: 104-week results from the randomized controlled EMBARK study.

Abstract: We assessed the external validity of composite indices Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Score (ASDAS), Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index (BASDAI), and Assessment in SpondyloArthritis international Society (ASAS) 40 response (ASAS40) by evaluating the correlations between the changes in some patient reported outcomes (PROs) for patients with non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis (nr-axSpA) and the changes in the scores of the composite indices. This was a post-hoc analysis of data from the EMBARK study in patients with nr-axSpA treated with etanercept. PROs were grouped according to ASDAS status (inactive [ 3.5]), patient achievement of > 50% improvement in BASDAI (BASDAI50 responders), and > 40% improvement in ASAS (ASAS40 responders) at 104 weeks. Analyses were conducted on observed cases available at Week 104. Changes in PROs from Baseline to Week 104 were assessed using analysis of covariance with adjustment for baseline with linear contrast. Higher ASDAS disease activity at 104 weeks was associated with lower long-term improvement from baseline in PROs (e.g., total back pain [visual analog scale, cm (95% confidence interval): − 4.58 (− 4.95, − 4.21), − 3.86 (− 4.28, − 3.43), − 2.15 (− 2.68, − 1.61), and 1.30 (− 0.51, 3.12) for inactive, low, high, and very high ASDAS disease activity, respectively; Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory (MFI) general fatigue: − 4.77 (− 5.70, − 3.84), − 2.96 (− 4.04, − 1.87), − 1.00 (− 2.32, 0.31), and 2.14 (− 2.10, 6.38); all p < 0.001)]. BASDAI50 non-responders had less improvement in PROs from Baseline to Week 104 vs. responders (e.g., total back pain: − 1.61 (− 2.05, − 1.18) vs. –4.43 (− 4.69, − 4.18); MFI general fatigue: − 0.01 (− 1.12, 1.09) vs. –4.30 (− 4.98, − 3.62); all p < 0.001). ASAS40 non-responders also had less improvement in PROs from Baseline to Week 104 vs. responders (e.g., total back pain: − 1.91 (− 2.30, − 1.52) vs. –4.75 (− 5.05, − 4.46); MFI general fatigue: − 0.63 (− 1.56, 0.30) vs. –4.64 (− 5.37, − 3.91); all p < 0.001). Composite indices are valid for monitoring treatment response and adequately reflect treatment-related changes experienced by patients with nr-axSpA. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01258738. Registered 9 December 2010.

Thu0370 cluster-randomized pragmatic clinical trial evaluating the potential benefit of a tight-control and treat-to-target strategy in axial spondyloarthritis: the results of the ticospa trial.

Abstract: Background: Current recommendations for axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) management include tight control and treat-to-target (TC) strategies, but no study has evaluated its potential benefit Objectives: To evaluate the benefit of TC strategies in comparison to usual care (UC) in patients with axSpA. Methods: Study design: Pragmatic, prospective, cluster-randomized controlled (2 arms), one-year trial (NCT03043846). Centers: 18 axSpA expert centers randomly allocated (1:1) to the treatment arm: TC vs. UC. Patients: axSpA diagnosis and ASAS criteria, non-optimally treated with NSAIDs, bDMARD-naive, and ASDAS > 2.1 at inclusion. Study treatment: a) TC arm: the strategy was pre-specified by the scientific committee based on current axSpA recommendations and aiming at a target (ASDAS 30%) improvement in the ASAS-HI score over one-year follow-up was the main outcome. Other outcomes (disease activity, quality of life, treatment, …) over follow-up were evaluated (Table 1). The number/type of adverse events were collected. Statistical analysis: this was an intention-to-treat analysis. To take into account the cluster-randomization design, for all outcomes, two models were performed: first a two-level mixed model with 2 random effects was used to estimate the % of responders/the change of the outcome over follow-up (i.e. mod1); in a second step, the imbalanced variables observed at baseline were included in the model (i.e.mod2). Cost-effectiveness was assessed by estimating the (baseline- and cluster-adjusted) incremental cost per quality-adjusted life-year (QALY) gained for TC vs. UC. Results: 160 patients were included (80 in TC and 80 in UC). Mean age was 37.9(11.0) years with a disease duration of 3.7(6.2) years, 51.2% were males. A radiographic damage of the SI-joints, a (ever) positive MRI sacroiliitis and HLA-B27+ were seen in 46.9%, 81.9% and 75.0% patients respectively. Mean ASDAS at inclusion was 3.0 (0.7) and mean ASASHI was 8.6 (3.7). 72 patients per group attended the one-year visit. Although 47.3% vs. 36.1% patients in the TC and UC arms achieved a significant improvement in ASASHI at the one-year visit, the difference was not statistically significant, with either model. Across all other outcomes a trend was observed in favor of the TC arm (Table 1). The number of bDMARDs was significantly higher in TC arm (56.2% vs. 27.2%). The number of infections was comparable in both groups (15 vs. 16 in the TC and UC, respectively), with only 2 severe infections occurring in the UC arm. From a societal perspective, TC resulted in an additional 0.04 QALY and saved €265 when compared to UC and a 67% probability of being cost-effective at a cost-effectiveness threshold of €20,000 per QALY. Conclusion: In this setting of SpA expert centers, UC resulted in a good outcome in a substantial number of patients but the TC was not superior for the primary outcome despite a greater number of bDMARDs prescription. Nevertheless, a general trend in favor of the tight control was observed, with a comparable safety profile and was found to be favorable from a societal health economic perspective. Acknowledgments: this trial has been conducted thanks to an unrestricted grant from UCB Disclosure of Interests: Anna Molto Grant/research support from: Pfizer, UCB, Consultant of: Abbvie, BMS, MSD, Novartis, Pfizer, UCB, Clementina Lopez-Medina: None declared, Filip van den Bosch Consultant of: AbbVie, Celgene Corporation, Eli Lilly, Galapagos, Janssen, Novartis, Pfizer, and UCB, Speakers bureau: AbbVie, Celgene Corporation, Eli Lilly, Galapagos, Janssen, Novartis, Pfizer, and UCB, Annelies Boonen Grant/research support from: AbbVie, Consultant of: Galapagos, Lilly (all paid to the department), Casper Webers: None declared, Emmanuelle Dernis Speakers bureau: Lilly, Novartis, Floris A. van Gaalen: None declared, Martin SOUBRIER: None declared, Pascal Claudepierre Speakers bureau: Janssen, Novartis, Lilly, Athan Baillet Consultant of: Athan BAILLET has received honorarium fees from Abbvie for his participation as the coordinator of the systematic literature review, Mirian Starmans-Kool: None declared, Desiree van der Heijde Consultant of: AbbVie, Amgen, Astellas, AstraZeneca, BMS, Boehringer Ingelheim, Celgene, Cyxone, Daiichi, Eisai, Eli-Lilly, Galapagos, Gilead Sciences, Inc., Glaxo-Smith-Kline, Janssen, Merck, Novartis, Pfizer, Regeneron, Roche, Sanofi, Takeda, UCB Pharma; Director of Imaging Rheumatology BV, Maxime Dougados Grant/research support from: AbbVie, Eli Lilly, Merck, Novartis, Pfizer and UCB Pharma, Consultant of: AbbVie, Eli Lilly, Merck, Novartis, Pfizer and UCB Pharma, Speakers bureau: AbbVie, Eli Lilly, Merck, Novartis, Pfizer and UCB Pharma

Sat0364 data to be collected for an optimal management of axial spondyloarthritis in daily practice: proposal from an evidence based and consensual approaches

Abstract: Background: Standardization of clinical practice has been proven to be effective in management of chronic diseases. This is particularly true at the time where the concept of treat to target is becoming more and more important in the field of axial spondyloarthritis (ax-SpA). Objectives: To propose a list of variables to be collected at the time of the diagnosis and over the follow-up of patients with axial spondyloarthritis (ax-SpA) for an optimal management in daily practice. Methods: The process comprised (1) the evaluation of the interest of 51 variables proposed for the assessment of axSpA via a systematic literature research, (2) a consensus process involving 78 hospital-based or office-based rheumatologists, considering the collection of the variable in a 4 grade scale from ”potentially useful” to “mandatory”, (3) a consensus on optimal timeline for periodic assessment of the selected variables on a 5 grade scale from “at each visit” to “never to be re-collected”. Results: The systematic literature research retrieved a total of 14,133 abstracts, of which 213 were included in the final qualitative synthesis. Concerning the data to be collected at the time of the diagnosis and during follow-up, we proposed to differentiate the results based on a) the way of collection of the variables (e.g. questionnaires by the patient, interview by the physician, physical examination, investigations) b) the usefulness these variables in daily practice based on the opinion of the rheumatologists ” c) the optimal timeline between 2 evaluations of the variable based on the opinion of the rheumatologists. In the initial systematic review, symptoms of heart failure history of inflammatory bowel disease, psoriasis or uveitis, patient global visual analogic scale, spine radiographs, modified Schober test, coxo-femoral rotations, swollen joint count, urine strip test, BASDAI and ASDAS global scores were considered very useful and nocturnal back pain/morning stiffness, sacro-iliac joints radiographs and CRP were considered mandatory (Figure 1). Timeline between 2 evaluations of variables to collect in the periodic review are summarized in Figure 2. Conclusion: Using an evidence-based and an expert consensus approaches, this initiative defined a core set of variables to be collected and reported at the time of the diagnosis and during follow-up of patients with ax-SpA in daily practice. Acknowledgments: this study has been conducted in two parts: the first one (evidence-based) was conducted thanks to a support from Abbvie France. AbbVie did not review the content or have influence on this manuscript. The second part of this initiative (consensus) has been conducted thanks to a support from the scientific non-profit organization: Association de Recherche Clinique en Rhumatologie Disclosure of Interests: Athan Baillet Consultant of: Athan BAILLET has received honorarium fees from Abbvie for his participation as the coordinator of the systematic literature review, Xavier Romand Consultant of: Xavier ROMAND has received honorarium fees from Abbvie, Arnaud Pfimlin Consultant of: Arnaud PFIMLIN has received honorarium fees from Abbvie, Mickael Dalecky Consultant of: Mickael DALECKY has received honorarium fees from Abbvie, Maxime Dougados Grant/research support from: AbbVie, Eli Lilly, Merck, Novartis, Pfizer and UCB Pharma, Consultant of: AbbVie, Eli Lilly, Merck, Novartis, Pfizer and UCB Pharma, Speakers bureau: AbbVie, Eli Lilly, Merck, Novartis, Pfizer and UCB Pharma