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Objective: This study aimed to examine primary health care (PHC) service utilization and mortality in older patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) with or without comorbidities. Design and setting: A cohort study in PHC in the city of Vantaa, Finland. Follow-up period was set between the years 2011 and 2018. Subjects: PHC patients aged 60 years or more with a T2D were included. Main outcome measures: Service utilization was defined as the number of face-to-face appointments and telephone contacts between a patient and general practitioner (GP) or nurse. The presence of comorbidities was defined using the Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI). Mortality was assessed using hazard ratio (HR) and standardized mortality ratio (SMR). Results: In total, 11,020 patients were included and followed for 71,596 person years. Mean age of the women and men in the beginning of follow-up were 71 and 69 years, respectively. The patients in the study cohort had a mean of eight appointments per person year to the GPs or nurses. Patients with T2D with comorbidities had more appointments than patients with T2D without comorbidities (incidence rate ratio (IRR) 1.44 [95% CI 1.39-1.49]). Increase in the number of all appointments reduced mortality in patients with T2D with and without comorbidities. Between patients with T2D with comorbidities and patients with T2D without comorbidities, the age and sex adjusted HR for death was 1.50 (95% CI 1.39-1.62). The SMR was higher in patients with T2D with comorbidities (1.83 [95% CI 1.74-1.92]) than in patients with T2D without comorbidities (0.91 [95% CI 0.86-0.96]). Conclusions: In older patients with T2D, the presence of comorbidities was associated with increased use of PHC services and increased mortality. Increase in the number of appointments was associated with reduced mortality in patients with T2D with or without comorbidities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The symptoms of juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) and the necessity for continuous treatment may persist in adulthood. Therefore, patients with JIA need to be appropriately transferred to adult care. We aimed to analyse the timing of the patients' transition to adult care, and patients' self-management skills with the process and the quality of the transition. This study included 161 Finnish participants of the population-based Nordic JIA cohort who attended a 17 year follow-up appointment. Special attention was paid to the three groups: those referred by the paediatric rheumatology outpatient clinic to primary healthcare (PHC), those who were directly transferred to adult rheumatology care, and those who were later referred. A total of 136 patients (84%) were eligible to participate in the study, and 40% of them were directly transferred to an adult rheumatology clinic. Of the patients, 72% eventually ended up being referred to an adult rheumatology outpatient clinic. However, 16% of the patients in the PHC group had active disease during the study appointment and were referred to adult services after the study visit. This study reveals the need to improve the transition process from paediatric care to adult care and to find the variables that can indicate the need for immediate transition. Although challenging, it is important to avoid treatment delay in adult patients with JIA who may have active disease but who do not have appropriate access to an adult rheumatological outpatient clinic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To study whether female patients with active rheumatoid arthritis (RA) have myocardial abnormalities and whether progression of myocardial involvement can be attenuated by disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs). Method: Cardiac magnetic resonance (cMR; 1.5 or 3.0 T), including late gadolinium enhancement (LGE), T1 relaxation time, and ventricular functions, was performed in 30 patients with untreated active early RA starting first DMARDs, and 28 patients with chronic RA with inadequate response to conventional synthetic DMARDs starting biological DMARDs. cMR was repeated in RA patients 1 year later. cMR was conducted once in 22 fibromyalgia (FM) subjects and in 35 healthy volunteers serving as controls. All subjects were non-smoking females without coronary heart disease, heart failure, or diabetes. Results: Compared with controls, 58 RA patients had slightly lower ventricular function, although in the normal range, and longer T1 time at baseline. None of the FM subjects had LGE, but it was frequent in RA (67%). During the 1 year DMARD treatment, Disease Activity Score based on 28-joint count–C-reactive protein declined, ventricular functions tended to improve, but the number of patients with LGE remained unchanged. However, the number of LGE-positive heart segments either decreased or stayed the same in 91% of RA patients. In early RA patients, achieving tight remission was associated with LGE stabilization, after adjustment for age, metabolic syndrome, baseline inflammatory activity, and leisure-time physical activity. Conclusion: Treatment targeted to tight remission in early stages of RA seems to be important to prevent not only joint damage but also myocardial abnormalities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective:To assess antibodies to malondialdehyde-acetaldehyde-modified low-density lipoprotein (MAA-LDL) in patients with newly diagnosed inflammatory joint disease.Method: Patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), spondyloarthritis (SpA), and undifferentiated arthritis (UA), participating in the Northern Savo 2010 Study, were evaluated for metabolic syndrome (MetS), metabolic and inflammatory markers, antibodies to MAA-LDL, Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, and Porphyromonas gingivalis.Results: Among 135 newly diagnosed untreated patients, of whom 53 (39%) were diagnosed to have RA, 44 (33%) SpA, and 38 (28%) UA, 49%, 30%, and 47%, respectively, had MetS. After adjusting for age and gender, anti-MAA-LDL immunoglobulin (Ig)A (p = 0.009), IgG (p = 0.031), and IgM (p = 0.001) levels differed between the diagnostic categories, but not in patients with MetS present or absent. All antibody classes to MAA-LDL correlated with erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and IgA and IgG antibodies with high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP). IgA antibodies to MAA-LDL correlated with rheumatoid factor (RF), anti-citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPAs), fasting plasma glucose, IgA antibodies to A. actinomycetemcomitans, and in IgA and IgG antibodies to P. gingivalis.Conclusion: Among various arthritis groups, antibodies to MAA-LDL were most common in RA. Antibodies to modified lipoproteins were associated with inflammation measured by ESR and hs-CRP. IgA antibodies to MAA-LDL correlated with age, antibodies to periodontal bacteria, RF, ACPA, and fasting glucose. Associations between antibodies to MAA-LDL and antibodies to periodontal bacteria, RA-associated antibodies, inflammatory parameters, and plasma glucose already reflect cardiovascular burden in inflammatory joint diseases at diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To describe the use of analgesics 12 months before and after initiation of the first disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drug (DMARD) in children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). Method: A register-based study linked three nationwide registers in Finland: the Register on Reimbursement for Prescription Medicines, the Drug Purchase Register (both maintained by the Finnish Social Insurance Institution), and the Finnish Population Register. The study ran from 1 January 2010 to 31 December 2014. It included 1481 patients aged < 16 years with diagnosed JIA and 4511 matched controls. Index day was the date when reimbursement for JIA medication was approved and treatment was initiated. The study period included 12 months pre- and post-index date, and purchases of prescription drugs were assessed for 3 month periods. Results: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) were purchased for 60% of the patients. Compared to controls, NSAID purchases for JIA patients were at their highest during the last 3 months before the index day [relative rate (RR) 21.2, 95% confidence interval (CI) 17.1-26.2], and they decreased steeply over the 10-12 months post-index (RR 4.0, 95% CI 3.1-5.0). Similar trends were seen with paracetamol and opioid purchases, but only 2% of patients purchased opioids during the 12 months pre-index and 1% during the 12 months post-index. Methotrexate was the most commonly used DMARD (91.9%), biologic DMARDs were used by 2.8% and glucocorticoids by 24.8% in the 3 months after the index day. Conclusion: Initiation of DMARDs rapidly reduces the need for analgesics in patients with JIA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Pain is a common and distressing feature of juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). Pain interference (PI) is underexplored in long-term conditions such as JIA. The aim of this study was to explore the factors associated with PI in young adults with JIA. Methods: All consecutive JIA patients aged 18-30 years in three tertiary rheumatology and rehabilitation centres in Finland between September 2015 and April 2016 were included. The patients completed questionnaires addressing demographics, disability, depressive symptoms, pain anxiety, pain intensity, and PI. PI was measured with a single item from the RAND-36 questionnaire. Five response categories were coded into three groups: patients reporting 'extremely', 'quite a bit' or 'moderate' were classified as having significant PI; 'a little bit' as having minor PI; and 'not at all' as having no PI. A leisure-time physical activity metabolic equivalent of task (LTPA MET) was calculated. Statistical comparisons between PI and categorical variables were made using chi-squared or Fisher-Freeman-Halton tests. Results: Of the total 195 patients, 97 (50%) patients reported PI. PI was associated with a wide spectrum of sociodemographic and disease-related variables. Pain intensity scores were higher in patients expressing greater PI (p < 0.001). Greater PI was associated with higher disability (p < 0.001), higher pain anxiety scores (p < 0.001), lower LTPA MET (p = 0.027), and poorer leisure-time activity (p < 0.001). Conclusions: PI is common in young adults with JIA. We suggest that PI should be taken into account in future outcome studies exploring the impact of pain in children and young adults with JIA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To describe a cohort of Finnish juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) patients, to recognize those young adults who are at risk of becoming socially restricted by their long-term rheumatic disease, and to assess which areas of self-rated health-related quality of life (HRQoL) are associated with the emergence of restricted social participation.Methods: A total of 195 young adults with JIA completed questionnaires addressing demographics, health behaviour, physical activity, functional ability, HRQoL, depressive symptoms, and self-esteem. Patients were classified as having non-restricted social participation if they were engaged in studying, working, maternity leave, or military service, and restricted social participation if they were unemployed or on disability pension.Results: Of the patients, 162 (83%) were considered as having non-restricted social participation and 33 (16%) restricted social participation. Among patients with restricted social participation, five (15%) were on disability pension and 28 (85%) were unemployed. Patients with restricted social participation participated less in leisure-time non-physical activities (p = 0.033), felt more disturbed during their leisure time (p = 0.010), had lower self-esteem (p = 0.005), and had higher disability scores (p = 0.024). HRQoL scores revealed statistically significant differences between the groups: physical functioning (p = 0.043), social functioning (p = 0.016), and emotional well-being (p = 0.049) were all lower in patients with restricted social participation.Conclusions: Socially restricted patients showed a higher degree of disability, and lower levels of physical functioning, self-esteem, emotional well-being, and social functioning. These patients should be recognized earlier and interventions provided to enhance their social participation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To assess what proportion of patients with disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drug (DMARD)-naïve early rheumatoid arthritis (ERA) reach 28-joint Disease Activity Score (DAS28) remission over 1 year, and remission variability across clinics in Finland.Method: Patients with DMARD-naïve newly diagnosed inflammatory arthritis were recruited. The proportion of patients in 28-joint Disease Activity Score with three variables (DAS28-3) remission was compared across sites. Repeated measures were analysed using a mixed models approach with appropriate distribution and link function.Results: In total, 611 patients were recruited at five sites: 67% were female; the mean (sd) age was 57 (16) years; 71% and 68% were positive for rheumatoid factor and anti-cyclic citrullinated peptides, respectively; and 23% had radiographic erosions. A total of 506 (83%) fulfilled the American College of Rheumatology/European League Against Rheumatism 2010 classification criteria for rheumatoid arthritis for further analyses. DAS28-3 remission was met by 68% and 75% at 3 and 12 months, respectively. The clinical site had no effect on remission when adjusted for confounders. At baseline, 68% used methotrexate-based combination therapy, and 31% used triple therapy with methotrexate, hydroxychloroquine, and sulphasalazine (the Fin-RACo regimen). In multivariate analysis, the only independent predictors of DAS28-3 remission at 12 months were lower baseline DAS28-3 and triple therapy as the initial treatment.Conclusion: Three out of four DMARD-naïve ERA patients in Finland are in remission during the first year from the diagnosis. High remission rates were achieved for most patients with the use of conventional synthetic DMARDs in combination. Treatment of DMARD-naïve ERA patients with the FIN-RACo regimen is a predictor of DAS28-3 remission in real-life rheumatology settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Self-rated health (SRH) is a well-known overall health status measure used in the general population but it is rarely examined in a clinical setting. We assessed SRH-related factors in clinic-based patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).Method: The study included 123 consecutive outpatients treated in 1998-1999. Patient questionnaires, including a single SRH item, sociodemographics, the Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ) for functional ability, and the Nottingham Health Profile (NHP) for health-related quality of life (QoL), were collected at baseline. Comorbidities were measured by the Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) and data on the use of drugs and surgery for RA were verified from medical records and by querying patients. Factors associated with SRH were examined using regression models with the propensity score as the covariate. Mortality rates were collected up to 31 December 2014. Hazard ratios (HRs) were used to estimate SRH-associated mortality.Results: In univariate analysis, poor SRH was associated with higher age and poorer patient-reported outcomes (PROs) but not with gender and clinical variables. After adjustment for the propensity score, the NHP dimensions for pain, energy, emotional reactions, and mobility remained significantly associated with SRH. The age- and sex-adjusted HR for death was 2.38 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.13-5.04, p = 0.034] for the patients with poor vs. good SRH. The propensity score-adjusted HR for death was 1.69 (95% CI 0.74-3.86, p = 0.21). Conclusions  In patients with RA, SRH was associated with health-related QoL dimensions, reflecting patients' well-being rather than clinical factors. During the 16 years of follow-up, SRH had no independent association with mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives:It is well recognized that medication adherence of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients is often poor. As less attention has been paid to physicians’ adherence to targeted treatment, we aimed to investigate how it affects outcomes in aggressively treated early RA patients. Method:In the new Finnish RA Combination Therapy (NEO-RACo) trial, 99 patients with early active RA were treated, targeting remission, with a combination of methotrexate, sulfasalazine, hydroxychloroquine, and low-dose prednisolone for 2 years, and randomized to receive infliximab or placebo for the initial 6 months. After 2 years, therapy was unrestricted while remission was still targeted. Patients were divided into tertiles by physicians’ adherence to treat-to-target, which was evaluated with a scoring system during the initial 2 years. After 5 years of follow-up, the between-tertile differences in remission rates, 28-joint Disease Activity Score (DAS28) levels, radiological changes, cumulative days off work, and the use of anti-rheumatic medication were assessed. Results: Follow-up data were available for 93 patients. Physicians’ good adherence was associated with improved remission rates at 2–4 years and lower DAS28 levels throughout the follow-up. In a multivariable model, physicians’ adherence was the most important predictor of remission at 3 months and 2 years (p < 0.001 for both). Between 2 and 5 years, biologics were used more often in the tertile of low adherence compared with the other two groups (p = 0.024). No significant differences were observed in radiological progression and cumulative days off work. Conclusions: Physicians’ good adherence is associated with improved remission rates and lesser use of biologics in early RA. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Objectives: Better treatment strategies and therapeutic options have changed the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) during the past decade. Our objective was to examine clinical and patient-reported outcomes in patients with RA treated in 1998–99 and 2011–12. Method: The cross-sectional observational study included 303 consecutive outpatients (n = 103 in 1998–99 and n = 200 in 2011–12) from the same outpatient clinic. Patient questionnaires included patients’ sociodemographics, the Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ) for functional ability, the Nottingham Health Profile (NHP) for health-related quality of life (HRQoL), self-reported general health (GH), and operations performed due to RA. A clinical examination was conducted for all patients. Comorbidities according to the Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI), anti-rheumatic drugs and medications were recorded and the HAQ and NHP dimensions calculated. The results from these two patient cohorts were compared. Results: The cohorts were comparable with regard to age, sex, and RA duration while the patients in the 2011–12 cohort were less often seropositive for rheumatoid factor (RF), had a better socioeconomic situation, better functional and working ability, and a decreased rate of RA surgery. The patients in 2011–12 had higher comorbidities and poorer GH while the HRQoL dimensions did not differ between the cohorts except for better mobility in 2011–12. Methotrexate (MTX) and combinations of conventional anti-rheumatic drugs were more frequently used in 2011–12. Biologicals were used only in 2011–12. Conclusions: According to our results, more active anti-rheumatic therapy coincides with better RA-related outcomes. However, the result was the opposite with regard to overall health and comorbidities. Is this a new challenge in the treatment RA? [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: With the ameliorating prognosis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), the role of comorbidities as causes of work disability (WD) may increase. The aim of this study was to determine the contribution of psychiatric and cardiovascular (CV) comorbidities as the leading causes of long-term WD among patients with recent-onset RA. Method: Between 2000 and 2007, all incident, working-age and non-retired RA patients were identified from a Finnish nationwide register. From other registers, we identified the RA patients who were granted a permanent or temporary disability pension by 31 December 2008. The incidences of disability pensions with CV diseases (ICD-10 codes I00-I99) or psychiatric disorders (F20-F69) as the leading causes were assessed and compared with the general population. Results: We identified a cohort of 7831 patients with RA. During follow-up, 1095 patients were granted a disability pension. After adjusting for competing risks, the 9-year cumulative incidence of WD caused by RA, a psychiatric comorbidity, or a CV disease was 11.9, 1.3, and 0.5%, respectively. Compared to the general population, the age- and sex-specific standardized incidence ratio (SIR) of WD due to psychiatric comorbidities was 0.99 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.80-1.23] and due to CV disease 1.75 (95% CI 1.23-2.51). Conclusions: In the study cohort with recent-onset RA, the 9-year cumulative incidence of disability pensions caused by psychiatric or CV comorbidities was only 11% or 4%, respectively, of that caused by RA itself. Compared to the general population, the risk of WD due to CV disease was increased. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate antidepressant use in a nationwide cohort of persons with incident rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in 2000-2007 in Finland. Method: Register data from the Social Insurance Institution of Finland were used to evaluate antidepressant use in ≥ 50-year-old incident RA patients (n = 10 356) and the same-age general population. Results: Of the RA patients, 10.0% (n = 1034) had used antidepressants during the year preceding RA diagnosis. The cumulative incidence of antidepressant initiations after RA diagnosis was 11.4% [95% confidence interval (CI) 10.0-12.9] for men and 16.2% (95% CI 14.9-17.5) for women at the end of follow-up (mean 4.4 years). Female gender [age-adjusted hazard ratio (HR) 1.39, 95% CI 1.21-1.60] and increasing number of comorbidities (p for linearity < 0.001) predicted antidepressant initiations. In the last follow-up year, antidepressant use was at the same level among men with RA [prevalence rate ratio (PRR) 0.93, 95% CI 0.82-1.06] but lower among women (PRR 0.89, 95% CI 0.83-0.95) when compared to the general population. Conclusions: Antidepressant initiations in early RA were associated with female gender and comorbidity. Although depression is stated to be a sizeable problem in RA, the prevalence of antidepressant use did not exceed the population level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To assess the impact of abdominal obesity (AO) on disease severity, cardiovascular risk factors, and patient-reported outcomes (PROs) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Method: Two hundred and thirty consecutive outpatients were cross-sectionally assessed. Waist circumference (WC) with a cut-off point of ≥ 102 cm in men and ≥ 88 cm in women indicated AO. Clinical assessment included joint counts, radiographs of small joints, and laboratory tests. Comorbidities and medication were verified from the patients' database. Patient questionnaires included sociodemographics, pain intensity, global disease activity, the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), the Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ), physical activity level, and the 36-item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36). Metabolic syndrome (MetS) was defined according to the criteria of National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) Adult Treatment Panel III (ATP III). The association of AO with the 28-joint count Disease Activity Score (DAS28) and mental (MCS) and physical component scores (PCS) of the SF-36 and the HAQ was assessed by using regression models with the propensity score as a covariate. Results: The AO prevalence was 52% in the 200 eligible patients. In a univariate analysis, AO was associated with cardiovascular risk factors, low HAQ score, physical inactivity, disease activity parameters, impaired MCS, higher pain, and increased use of biological drugs and antidepressants. In a multivariable model, only poorer DAS28 (p = 0.018) and poorer HAQ score (p = 0.004) remained significantly associated with AO. Conclusions: AO is highly prevalent in patients with RA. In addition to cardiovascular risk factors, AO is associated with higher disease activity, higher disability, physical inactivity, more patients' perception of pain, and poorer mental health. Multifaceted promotion of lifestyle habits would be beneficial for improving AO-related health outcomes in patients with RA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The 26 year follow-up time probably reveals the total percentage of FM patients who receive WDP because of FM. Fibromyalgia (FM) is characterized by persistent and widespread pain, and is often associated with fatigue, sleep disturbances, and other symptoms. Six patients in this group totally agreed, and three patients somewhat agreed with the claim that 'Fibromyalgia has had the most significant impact on the fact that I have lost my ability to work'. [Extracted from the article]

Objectives: To study the prevalence and importance of co-morbidities in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) at the time of the diagnosis and after a 15-year follow-up, focusing on the relationship between co-morbidity and disease activity. Method: The study population comprised 87 patients with early RA (mean age 44 years, 79% female, and 65% rheumatoid factor positive) collected from the Helsinki area between 1986 and 1989. Data for co-morbidities were collected at baseline and at a 15-year examination or at the time of death, and the age-weighted Charlson co-morbidity index (CCIa) at baseline was calculated for each patient. The disease activity score based on 28 joints (DAS28) was assessed with three parameters at baseline and during the first year (DAS28 AUC0-12). The relationship between co-morbidity and activity of RA was studied in groups CCIa 0, CCIa 1-2, and CCIa ≥ 3. Results: Adequate data were available in 80 patients with a mean age of 60 years and a mean disease duration of 15.4 years. At baseline, 20% of patients had at least one co-morbid condition (CC). At endpoint, 60% of the patients had some co-morbidity: 34% had one CC, 19% two, 5% three, and 2% four CCs. The most common end-point CCs were hypertension (30%), cardiovascular diseases (14%), and malignancies (11%). DAS28 AUC0-12 and DAS28 at end-point were higher in groups CCIa1-2 and CCIa ≥ 3 than in CCIa 0. Conclusions: Co-morbidities increased during the 15 years of RA and the patients with high baseline CCIa showed higher disease activity both in early disease and at end-point. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To study risk factors for symptomatic bone fractures in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and to compare the frequency of fractures between SLE patients and population controls. Method: The study included 222 SLE patients [mean age 47.0 years, disease duration 13.1 years, 204 (92%) women] and 720 population controls living in the metropolitan area of Helsinki. The history of symptomatic bone fractures in SLE patients and controls was recorded by interview, and demographic and clinical data of SLE patients were obtained by interview, clinical examination, and chart review. Results: A history of at least one symptomatic bone fracture was recorded in 93 (42%) of all 222 patients with SLE. The risk of any fracture in 204 women with SLE compared to controls was 1.8 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.3-2.4] and fractures in the ankle, hip, and vertebral column were more common than in female controls, with odds ratios (ORs) of 2.0 (95% CI 1.1-3.7), 5.1 (95% CI 1.2-21.5), and 4.0 (95% CI 1.8-8.6), respectively. In 18 men with SLE, compared to male controls, no difference in the frequency of fractures was observed (OR 0.7, 95% CI 0.3-2.0). Risk factors for bone fractures in women with SLE were age (p = 0.008), comorbidity (p = 0.050), and the duration of corticosteroid use (p = 0.025). Conclusions: Symptomatic bone fractures, especially in the ankle, hip, and vertebral column, are common in women with SLE. Special attention should be paid to preventing fractures in elderly female patients with comorbidities and a long duration of corticosteroid use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To determine the risk of renal insufficiency requiring transient or chronic dialysis and its contributing factors in patients diagnosed with Wegener's granulomatosis (WG) between 1981 and 2000 in Finland. Patients and methods: A retrospective cohort study using hospital discharge registers with a review of hospital case reports. Data were complemented with files from the Finnish Registry for Kidney Diseases. All files were reviewed by 8 October 2005. Results: A total of 492 patients received a verified diagnosis of WG in 1981-2000. Of these, 84 (17%%) needed dialysis by the end of follow-up. Of the 84 dialysed patients, 32 (38%%) recovered initially, 32 (38%%) needed chronic dialysis (dialysed > 3 months), and 19 (23%%) received a kidney transplant. Forty-one (49%%) of the dialysed patients were alive at the end of follow-up: 16 with a kidney transplant, 14 on dialysis, and 11 without dialysis. The cumulative rate of developing renal involvement leading to dialysis was 14.6%% [95%% confidence interval (CI) 11.6-18.2] at 5 years and 29.6%% (95%% CI 21.5-40.0) at 20 years after onset of WG symptoms. Elevated creatinine levels at presentation were associated with an increased rate of renal insufficiency requiring chronic dialysis. Age, gender, and involvement of any particular organ system had no significant effect. Conclusions: WG patients are at great risk of developing renal insufficiency, and this risk increases as the disease progresses. Elevated creatinine levels at presentation are associated with an increased risk of dialysis-dependent end-stage renal disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate how inflammation and metabolic syndrome (MetS) are associated with adipokine levels in patients with inflammatory arthritis. Methods: Fifty-four female patients with arthritis were enrolled in the study. Twenty (37%%) of these patients had MetS, which was diagnosed according to the definition of the International Diabetes Federation (IDF). Interleukin (IL)-6 and four adipokines (resistin, leptin, adiponectin, and adipsin) were determined by immunoassay. Healthy women with body mass index (BMI) between 22 and 25 kg//m2 served as controls. Results: The patients with arthritis had higher levels of resistin than the healthy controls. This difference was clear in patients without MetS (17.4 in patients vs. 10.8 ng//mL in controls, p < 0.001), and even higher resistin levels were found in the patients with MetS (20.7 ng//mL; p < 0.001 vs. healthy controls; and p == 0.095 vs. patients without MetS). In the patients with arthritis and MetS, resistin correlated positively with IL-6 (Pearson's r == 0.5, p == 0.03). Leptin levels were increased in arthritis patients with MetS as compared to healthy controls, but not in patients without MetS. The statistically significant difference between patients with MetS and controls remained when leptin was adjusted with BMI. Accordingly, adiponectin levels were lower in patients with MetS than in healthy controls (p < 0.05). Leptin, adiponectin, and adipsin did not correlate with the inflammatory cytokine IL-6 or with C-reactive protein (CRP). Conclusions: The results show that high resistin levels are associated with arthritis independently of MetS, whereas leptin is increased only in arthritis patients with MetS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the 15-year radiographic outcome in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in relation to early radiographic remission. Methods: A cohort of 87 patients with RA, treated with early-initiated disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drug (DMARD) therapy, was followed up prospectively for 15 years. Radiographs of hands and feet were taken at baseline and at 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, 10, and 15 years, and radiographs of large joints at 15 years. Radiographic outcome was assessed by the Larsen score (LS). Early radiographic remission was defined as a change of ≤ 1 Larsen unit in a year, during the first 2 years. Results: A complete set of radiographs for evaluation was available from 69 patients. Outcome was evaluated in three groups: group A comprised 18 (26%%) patients with sustained early radiographic remission (at both year 1 and year 2); group B comprised 20 (29%%) patients with temporary early radiographic remission (at either year 1 or year 2); and group C comprised 31 (45%%) patients with no early radiographic remission. Radiographic outcome was most favourable in patients with sustained early radiographic remission. The mean change in LS over 15 years was 11 [95%% confidence interval (CI) 0-22] in group A, 30 (95%% CI 12-51) in group B, and 62 (95%% CI 45-81) in group C (p < 0.001). A similar relationship to large joint damage (Larsen large joint score) was seen. Conclusions: Compared with patients with progressive erosions, our results indicate that early radiographic remission relates to a better long-term radiographic outcome in RA regarding both small joint and large joint changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To determine which disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are currently used by Finnish rheumatologists to treat early rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Methods: Information on sex, date of birth, and date of special medicine reimbursement decision for all new RA patients was collected from a nationwide register maintained by the Social Insurance Institution (SII) during the time period from 1 January 2000 to 31 December 2007. Patient cohorts were registered in 2-year time periods (2000-01, 2002-03, 2004-05, 2006-07) and DMARDs purchased by the patient cohorts during the first year after the date of reimbursement decision for RA were registered. The frequencies of early drug treatment strategies (combination of DMARDs, single DMARD, or no DMARDs) were evaluated. Results: A total of 14 878 (68.0% female, 62.6% rheumatoid factor (RF)-positive) patients were identified. Between 2000 and 2001 the most commonly used treatment strategy for early RA during the first 3 months was single DMARD treatment (56.1%) and the most commonly used DMARD during the first year was sulfasalazine (63.0%), while between 2006 and 2007 the respective treatments were combination DMARDs (55.3%) and methotrexate (69.0%). The change in treatment strategies as well as in DMARDs used was highly significant (p < 0.001 for linearity). At the end of the study period only 4.9% of the patients with early RA were not receiving DMARDs during the first 3 months. Conclusions: Currently, combination therapy including methotrexate is the most commonly prescribed treatment strategy for early RA in Finland. In recent years, an increasing number of active drug treatments have been taken into practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To assess the incidence, prevalence, and outcome of amyloidosis associated with inflammatory rheumatic diseases. Methods: An observational study was performed in the outpatient department of Kainuu Central Hospital from 1993 to 2007. The following criteria were used for the performance of abdominal subcutaneous fat aspiration (ASFA) and/or rectal biopsies: erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) > 40 mm/h at two consecutive visits; and proteinuria (> 0.5 g/day) or serum creatinine > 150 μmol/L. Renal biopsy was performed when there was a high suspicion of amyloidosis in cases with negative findings in the above-mentioned biopsies. In addition, amyloid staining was used routinely for mucosal specimens taken in gastroscopy and colonoscopy. The patients were followed until death or to the end of 2007. Results: New diagnoses of amyloidosis in the consecutive 5-year periods from 1993 onwards numbered 11, 3, and 5, respectively. During the study period, there was a mean annual incidence of amyloidosis of 1.8 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.1-2.8)/100 000]. At the end of 2007 there were eight subjects with amyloidosis, giving a point prevalence of 12.0/100 000 (95% CI 5.2-23.6). Five patients out of the 19 underwent haemodialysis because of terminal uraemia and three of them also had renal transplantation. Overall, 12 (63%) patients died after a median survival time of 6 (95% CI 4-8) years, one-third from amyloidosis. The 5-year survival rate of the series was 67% (95% CI 41-86). Conclusion: Amyloidosis is rarely encountered today. ASFA or rectal biopsy facilitates its early diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To obtain information on bone mineral content (BMC) in juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) in young adulthood. Methods: BMC measurements of 116 young adults with JIA and controls were performed at the lumbar spine and the proximal femur by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). Results: Patients were divided into the JIA-active group (n = 73) and the JIA-inactive group (n = 43). Fifty-five per cent of men and 30% of women had their disease in remission. Forty-eight per cent in the JIA-active group and 16% in the JIA-inactive group had used glucocorticoids (p < 0.001). Mean BMC in the femoral neck was 5.76 (SD 0.21) g for men and 4.74 (SD 0.10) g for women in the JIA-active group; 5.84 (SD 0.23) g for men and 4.59 (SD 0.06) g for women in the JIA-inactive group; and 6.65 (SD 0.20) g for men and 4.78 (SD 0.07) g for women in the controls. Both JIA groups had lower BMC values in the femoral neck than the controls (p < 0.001), but a statistically significant difference was found among men (p = 0.006). There was no significant difference in mean BMC in the lumbar spine between the JIA groups and the controls, nor between men and women. Glucocorticoid use, weight and also height among women were associated statistically significantly with BMC in the femoral neck. Conclusions: Young adults, especially men, with JIA have reduced BMC values in the femoral neck. Glucocorticoid use and weight, but not disease activity, seem to be associated with lower BMC. However, osteoporosis is rare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. The aim was to evaluate the effect of the posterior surgical approach on hip muscle strength and range of movement (ROM). Methods. Maximal isometric external and internal rotator strength of the hip muscles and bilateral leg extension strength were measured by dynamometers. Active (AROM) and passive (PROM) range of motion of the hip were measured by goniometers in 30 patients before and 3, 6 and 12 months after hip resurfacing. Postoperatively the patients were advised to return to their usual physical activities. Results. Prior to the surgery internal rotation strength was on the same level on both sides, whereas external rotation strength of the operated hip was 26% ( p < 0.001) lower compared with the unoperated side. External rotation strength remained at the lowered level, but internal rotation strength of the operated hip increased over the level of the contralateral side (both p < 0.001) at 12-month follow-up leading to the imbalance in external/internal rotation strength ratio ( p < 0.001). Preoperatively, all active and passive ROMs of the operated side were statistically lower than on the unoperated side ( p < 0.001). ROMs of the operated hip improved significantly with the exceptions that active external rotation decreased after the operation ( p < 0.001). Conclusions. The patients reported remarkable decrease in pain postoperatively. However, the surgical procedure, particularly the division of the external hip rotator muscles led to specific external rotation strength and ROM deficits. Because typical spontaneous physical activity could not restore hip function, there is a need for specific postoperative rehabilitative programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the 15-year outcome of patients with early rheumatoid arthritis (ERA) with respect to the continuity of treatment. Methods: We conducted a 15-year follow-up study of 87 patients with ERA treated since diagnosis with disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) according to the ‘sawtooth’ strategy. The patients were divided into groups according to the continuity of treatment: (A) ‘continuous DMARDs’, (B) ‘discontinued and restarted DMARDs’, and (C) ‘permanently discontinued DMARDs’. The main outcome measurements included the Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ), the Larsen score, and clinical remission according to the American Rheumatism Association (ARA) criteria. Results: Seventy (80%) patients participated in the 15-year follow-up. DMARDs were discontinued in 20 (29%) patients due either to remission or to a symptom-free period of the disease. The disease flared up in nine (45%) of these patients, in some patients several years after the discontinuation. At the 15-year follow-up, 59 (84%) patients were on DMARDs; only three (4%) were using biologicals. Functional capacity remained good in all groups (mean HAQ score 0.52). The mean Larsen score was higher (54) in group A than in groups B (25) and C (12) (p =0.001). The remission rate was 64% in group C and considerably lower in groups A (6%) and B (0%) (p<0.001). Conclusions: Our results indicate that most of the patients with long-standing RA require continuous DMARD treatment. If the treatment is discontinued, patients should be followed-up closely and DMARDs readministered without delay if the disease flares up. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To examine magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans for bone lesions typical of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in the wrist joints of healthy individuals. Methods: Thirty-one symptomless healthy persons (13/18 men/women), mean age 49 years (range 32–64 years), were included. MRI scans and radiographs of both wrists were obtained (62 wrists). The MRI scans and the radiographs were evaluated by two specialists according to the OMERACT recommendations and the Larsen method, respectively. Results: MRI showed erosive-like lesions in either one or both wrists in 14 [45%, 95% confidence interval (CI) 27–64] out of 31 subjects. Altogether, 24 erosive-like changes were found in the 930 wrist bones evaluated (15 bones in each wrist). No more than two lesions per wrist were detected. All the changes were small (22 were grade 1 and two were grade 2; scale 0–10) and were found more often in the older subjects (55 vs. 43 years, p<0.001). Most lesions (54%) were located on the volar side of the wrist and adjacent to the ligament insertions. Intravenous administration of the contrast medium gadolinium diethylenetriaminepentaacetate (Gd-DTPA) was used in 10 subjects, and mild to moderate Gd-DTPA enhancement in the synovial compartments was seen in six of them: five had enhancement in both wrists and one in one wrist. The plain radiographs showed one erosive-like change in the wrist (pisiforme) that was not recorded with MRI. Conclusions: A few small bone lesions that could potentially be confused as erosions were detected in about half of the normal volunteers. These findings should always be evaluated with reference to the clinical picture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To study the reproductive health history in women with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) compared to population controls. Methods: A total of 206 female SLE patients were interviewed regarding demographic and disease data, menstruation, use of contraception and hormone replacement therapy (HRT), infertility, and pregnancies. The control group consisted of 1037 women from the general population of similar age and socioeconomic status living in the same region. Results: In SLE women compared to population controls, mean age at menarche (13.3 vs. 13.2 years) and frequency of infertility (16% vs. 16%) were similar but menopause occurred earlier (44.9 vs. 46.8 years, p = 0.01). Current use of oral contraceptives (OCs) was less common than in controls [18% vs. 28%, odds ratio (OR) 0.55, 95% CI 0.3-1.0] while previous use of progesterone-containing intrauterine devices (IUDs) was more common (13% vs. 5%, OR 3.2, 95% CI 1.9-5.4). Current use of HRT was similar (22% vs. 21%) but SLE patients had started the use earlier (43.2 vs. 47.1 years, p = 0.003). Mean number of pregnancies was lower in SLE patients compared to controls (2.3 vs. 2.5, p = 0.046) and in lupus nephritis patients compared to SLE patients without nephritis (1.9 vs. 2.5, p = 0.01). No difference was found in the occurrence of spontaneous and induced abortions compared to controls, but pregnancy-associated complications were more common in SLE women. Conclusion: When compared to population controls women with SLE are normally fertile, use less OCs and more IUDs, have earlier menopause and use HRT as frequently. Family size is reduced, especially in lupus nephritis patients, and pregnancy-associated complications are more common. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To study the prevalence of different serotypes of Chlamydia trachomatis antibodies and the incidence of C. trachomatis-induced reactive arthritis (ReA) among patients with early arthritis in a defined population. Methods: Serum samples were collected from a cohort of 122 adult patients in the age group 18-65 years included in the Kuopio 2000 Arthritis Survey. Antibodies against C. trachomatis serotypes C, E, and G were studied using enzyme immunoassay (EIA) tests among patients and in a control cohort of 78 adults without any joint symptoms. The incidence assessment for Chlamydia-induced ReA was based on a ligase chain reaction (LCR) test in urine and clinical symptoms and signs appropriate for ReA. Results: Of 122 patients, with the baseline diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in 11, spondyloarthropathy (SpA) in 28, and undifferentiated arthritis (UA) in 83 cases, 42 (34%) showed immunoglobulin (Ig)G or IgA antibodies against at least one serotype C, E, or G. Among the patients with UA the prevalence was significantly increased compared with the controls (p = 0.010). C. trachomatis-induced ReA arthritis was diagnosed in only three patients with the LCR test. On this basis the incidence of C. trachomatis-induced arthritis was 5.4/100 000 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.1-15.7] in the age group 18-65 years. Conclusion. Antibodies against C. trachomatis were most common in patients with UA reflecting the fact that cases with chlamydia-induced ReA are included in this subgroup. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The aim was to assess the effect of resurfacing hip arthroplasty on hip muscle function, when, in the posterior approach, the piriformis tendon and outer rotators of the hip joint were divided. The unoperated side was used as a control. Methods: Thirty-three consecutive patients (mean age 55 years, 73% males) were operated using the posterior approach. Main outcome measures were isometric muscle strength of external and internal rotators and extensors of the hip and hip pain. Results: Hip external rotation strength (p > 0.001) and leg extension strength (p < 0.001) were significantly lower on the operated side compared with the un-operated side prior to the surgery. On the operated side external rotation strength decreased by 29% (p < 0001) and internal rotation strength increased by 28% (p < 0.001). The changes of 12% in leg extension strength of the operated side and the changes of 3-10% in all strength measurements in the un-operated side were not significant. Three months post-operatively, the external rotation strength and leg extension strength values were 50% and 26% lower (p < 0.001) on the operated side compared with those in the un-operated side. The decreases in pain values during the rest, loading as well as during the strain of strength measurements were all significant (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Although hip resurfing surgery gives excellent relief of pain, significant strength deficit was found in the external rotators 3 months post-operatively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the utility of the Stanford Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ) in the estimation of loss of productivity due to early rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and to develop a simple model for analysis of the cost-benefit of therapies. Methods: In the Finnish Rheumatoid Arthritis Combination Therapy (FIN-RACo) trial, 162 patients with recent-onset RA who were available for the workforce were randomized to receive either a combination of three disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) or a single DMARD for 2 years and were followed up for 5 years. No biological drugs were used. Data on sick leave and RA-related disability pensions came from official register records. Loss of productivity was computed by both the human capital approach (HCA) and the friction cost approach (FCA). Functional capacity was assessed by the HAQ at baseline and at 6 months. Results: Over 5 years, mean loss of productivity per year was EUR 8344 by the HCA and EUR 1928 by the FCA. The level of the HAQ index at 6 months, but not the change in HAQ from baseline, determined productivity costs. With the HCA, a monotonous association between annual loss of productivity and the 6-month HAQ was found: EUR 2087 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1340-2903] per one step (0.13) on the HAQ scale from 0 to 1.88. With the FCA, the increase in loss of productivity was cut at the HAQ level of 0.5 to 0.75 (EUR 17 740 in 5 years). Conclusion: The HAQ index at 6 months may serve as a determinant of long-term RA-related indirect costs in economic analyses in early RA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To determine the features of clinical presentation and the diagnostic delay of Wegener's granulomatosis (WG) in Finland in 1981-2000. Methods: A retrospective cohort study using hospital discharge registers with review of hospital case reports. We determined the spectrum of WG symptoms in relation to individual organ groups and ELK (Ear, nose, throat, Lung, Kidney) score within the first 6 months from disease onset. Diagnostic delay and contributing factors were analysed. Results: Of 513 WG patients treated at Finnish specialized medical care hospitals, 489 patients had sufficient information in the first 6 months of their disease. The ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) system was involved in 63%; the pulmonary system in 59%, and 60% had general symptoms. Over time, the general symptoms became more common at presentation. The diagnostic delay had decreased from 17 to 4 months. Conclusions: The initial symptoms of WG remained essentially unchanged. The proportion of general symptoms increased. A considerable shortening of diagnostic delay occurred, mostly between the 5-year periods of 1981-1985 and 1986-1990, when anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA) tests were brought into routine use. ELK scores of 2 and 3 and the presence of pulmonary and general symptoms predicted a shorter diagnostic delay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To study the effect of isometric neck strength exercises on upper cervical stability in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Methods: Twenty patients with a mean (SD) age of 58 (9) years and duration of RA of 27 (10) years volunteered for the study. Lateral radiographs of the cervical spine were taken to measure the current atlantoaxial distance (AAD) in flexion and extension. Maximal isometric neck flexion and extension strength values were measured by a dynamometer. Thereafter, AADs were measured from radiographs taken at 80-90% resistance of maximal strength. Results: According to the full flexion radiographs at baseline, the patients were classified into three groups: eight patients without anterior atlantoaxial subluxation (aAAS) [AAD = 2.1 (2-3) mm], seven with unstable aAAS [AAD = 6.6 (5-8) mm], and five with stable aAAS [AAD = 5.5 (5-7) mm]. During resisted flexion the AAD decreased by 5 (3-7) mm (p<0.001) in the unstable aAAS group, while in the other two groups the changes were minor. During resisted extension the AAD increased by 3 (2-6) mm (p<0.001) in the cases with unstable aAAS only. Conclusion: Isometric exercising towards flexion decreases the AAD in cases with unstable aAAS. Submaximal loading of the neck extensors by pushing the back of the head against the resistance even in the neutral position of the cervical spine leads to a decrease in the width of the cervical spine canal and is not recommended in unstable aAAS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To assess whether serum C-terminal cross-linking telopeptide of type I collagen (ICTP), a marker of type I collagen degradation, has any additional value in the assessment of treatment effect in patients with early rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Methods: A total of 182 patients were randomized to treatment either with three disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and low-dose prednisolone (COMBI) or with a single DMARD with or without low-dose prednisolone (SINGLE). We investigated the prognostic value of serum ICTP level for the progression of joint destruction in X-rays (Larsen's score) from baseline to 2 years. Results: There was a statistically significant decrease in serum ICTP levels from baseline to 1 year. At 6 months, the serum ICTP level was lower in the COMBI patients compared to that of the SINGLE cases (p = 0.008, after adjustment for baseline ICTP). When grouping the patients according to serum ICTP tertiles at 6 months, there was a statistically significant trend for increasing median change in Larsen score from baseline to 2 years from lowest to highest ICTP tertile in the SINGLE patients [p = 0.008, after adjustment for 28-joint Disease Activity Score (DAS28) score and RF status at baseline], while in the COMBI, the change remained low in all ICTP tertiles. Conclusions: The COMBI strategy for recent-onset RA results in early suppression of type I collagen degradation, which is reflected in radiological joint damage at 2 years. Serum ICTP at 6 months may be useful for identifying those RA patients whose treatment should be intensified to prevent further joint damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To analyse how treatment of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) influenced the duration of the disease before the first large joint surgery, arthrodesis or arthroplasty, in two patient cohorts 10 years apart. Methods: Data on patients with RA having an arthrodesis or arthroplasty of a large joint from 1990 to 1992 and from 2000 to 2002 and the type of medication used among all patients with RA in 1988-2002 were extracted from the data set of Kuopio University Hospital. Results: The median duration of the disease before the decision of arthrodesis was 6.0 (range 1-25) years in 1990-92 and 9.0 (1-31) years (p = 0.307) in 2000-02, and of arthroplasty 10.5 (0-27) and 12.5 (0-59) years (p = 0.820), respectively. A significant shift from only symptomatic treatment or one disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drug (DMARD) to the more common use of immunosuppressants and/or combinations of at least two DMARDs occurred between 1992 and 2002. Conclusions: Treatment of RA at diagnosis and during the first years after diagnosis was traditional. Intensifying treatment later in the disease course did not reduce the need for large joint surgery as it occurred in the same time range in both cohorts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To explore the cost of the statutory inpatient rehabilitation system in Finland and its impact on the functional and work capacity of patients with early rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Methods: In the Finnish Rheumatoid Arthritis Combination-Therapy trial (FIN-RACo), 195 patients with recent-onset RA, 162 of them available for the work force, were randomly assigned to two different drug treatment strategies for 2 years. Otherwise, the patients received routine multidisciplinary care and, if their functional or work capacity was endangered, were referred to inpatient rehabilitation. After a 5-year follow-up, data on rehabilitation, sick leave, and RA-related disability pensions were obtained from official registers. Results: Of the 162 patients, 49 (30%) underwent inpatient rehabilitation at an average cost of EURO5400. The rehabilitated patients more often worked in white-collar jobs and had more pain and a worse Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ) score (1.0 vs. 0.78; p = 0.01) at baseline. Their HAQ scores remained higher throughout follow-up (p<0.001); no change appeared over inpatient periods [mean 0.01; 95% confidence interval (CI) -0.13 to 0.16]. No independent impact of rehabilitation on the HAQ score emerged in an adjusted generalized estimating equations (GEE) model (p = 0.55). Nor did any improvement in work capacity appear: average lost productivity (human capital approach) per patient-year was EURO10 155 (95% CI 6994-14 196) before and EUR 12 839 (95% CI 8589-19 139) after the start of rehabilitation. Conclusion: For patients with recent-onset RA, the Finnish statutory inpatient rehabilitation system had no positive impact on either functional or work capacity during the first few years, despite its considerable cost. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To assess the state of the disease and verify the diagnoses during a 7-24-month follow-up of adult patients with newly diagnosed inflammatory joint diseases in a defined population. Methods: Patients with previously undiagnosed synovitis in at least one peripheral joint or signs of inflammation in sacroiliac, glenohumeral or hip joints were enrolled on their first hospital visit in 2000 and followed-up for up to 24 months in Kuopio. Results: A total of 138/173 adult patients completed a mean 13-month follow-up. During the follow-up the diagnosis was specified for 15/81 (19%) patients previously classified as undifferentiated arthritis (UA). Eight patients developed rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Of 28 patients with RA, 92% were on disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and 75% had a combination treatment with two or more DMARDs. According to the diagnosis at baseline, 75% of cases with RA, 38% with spondyloarthropathies (SpAs) and 42% with UA had active synovitis or arthralgia at follow-up. In multivariate analysis, older patients at disease onset were less likely to be in remission (p = 0.011). Conclusion: The diagnosis could be specified for 19% of patients with UA. Fifteen of 20 patients with RA had an active disease despite treatment with DMARDs. Patients with SpAs and UA had a better short-term outcome. Patients with active disease need aggressive therapy in all age groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. Activating physiotherapy was used to support the principle of post stroke functional recovery as a learning process which requires both cognitive and physical actions. The purpose of the present preliminary study was to examine the influence of activating physiotherapy on stroke patients' cognitive and physical functions and independent living at home compared with traditional treatment over a 12-month follow-up. Methods. The 40 patients who received activating physiotherapy were compared with 40 patients receiving traditional therapy. Patients' physical functional capacity was measured one week and 12 months post stroke with the Barthel Index (BI), 10-m gait speed, the Postural Control and Balance for Stroke (PCBS) test, walking distances and patients' abilities to cope without outside help. Cognitive capacity was measured with specific neuropsychological tests: language, visuospatial functions, visual inattention and memory. Results. Physical functional capacity improved significantly (p = 0.001) in both groups at the 12-month follow-up, but no significant differences were found between groups. However, the patients in the activating therapy group coped better without outside help (p = 0.042) and covered longer distances outdoors (p = 0.012). At follow-up all the measured cognitive functions had improved significantly in the activating therapy group and the change in memory in the same group differed significantly from that in the traditional therapy group (p < 0.001), where no significant improvement was observed. Conclusions. Activating therapy advanced stroke patients' cognitive and physical functional recovery and supported their return to independent life at home more than did traditional physiotherapy. In this respect activating therapy seems to have a beneficial influence on long-term stroke rehabilitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To assess the predictive value of serum soluble interleukin‐2 receptor (sIL‐2R) levels in patients with acute reactive arthritis (ReA). Methods: The study includes 26 patients with acute ReA who had participated in a prospective population‐based cohort study of very early arthritis. The patients had had arthritis of at least one joint with a maximum duration of 3 months. They were assessed by a rheumatologist on presentation and 6 months later. Serum sIL‐2R levels on presentation were measured by the Immulite automated immunoassay analyser. Remission at 6 months, defined by the absence of swollen and tender joints, was related to the baseline sIL‐2R level using a permutation test with general scores. Bootstrap estimation was used to derive the 95% confidence interval (CI). Results: A total of 17 patients (65%) were in remission at 6 months and nine patients (35%) still had joint symptoms. In patients reaching remission within 6 months, the mean baseline sIL‐2R level, 891 U/mL (95% CI: 658 to 1123), was higher than in patients not reaching remission, 501 U/mL (95% CI: 436 to 566), p = 0.022. Conclusions: A high serum sIL‐2R level at baseline is a predictor of remission in patients with acute ReA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study compared health related quality of life (HRQOL) among lumbar disc surgery patients to general population, and assessed the relationships between HRQOL and other outcome measures 2 and 14 months after surgery.Methods: The 15D instrument was used to measure HRQOL in 145 lumbar disc surgery patients. Subjective outcome was also assessed by the Oswestry index, Short Depression Inventory (SDI) and pain, and objective outcome by trunk muscle strength and mobility of the spine.Results: The mean (SD) 15D score among the patients 2 months after surgery was 0.880 (0.104) compared to 0.941 (0.076) among general population (p=0.016). The 15D, Oswestry and SDI scores remained unchanged during the follow-up, while the improvements in the spine mobility and trunk muscle strength were significant. Back pain decreased by 68% and leg pain by 74% from preoperative level to 2 months check-up. Leg pain further decreased during the following 12 months, while back pain remained unchanged. HRQOL was associated with age, pain, Oswestry and SDI indices, but not with physical function.Conclusion: HRQOL measured by 15D was lower in the lumbar disc surgery patients compared to general population. 15D was associated with the subjective outcome measures of pain, Ostwestry and SDI indices, but not with the objective measures of physical function. Thus, a combination of 'disease specific' and 'generic' measures is recommended to be used to obtain more accurate information about the overall welfare of an individual. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To measure serum levels of antibodies against cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP antibodies) and serum cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP) in patients with early joint inflammation, and to study the correlation of these two tests with clinical measurements.Methods: Adult patients with recent-onset arthritis, of <3 months' duration, were referred from primary healthcare centres to rheumatologists. Serum levels of anti-CCP antibodies and COMP at baseline were analysed by enzyme immunoassay (EIA) and compared with clinical baseline data.Results: Sixty-nine patients were included. The specificity of the anti-CCP antibody test for RA was 96%, and the sensitivity was 44%. There was a significant difference between the four diagnosis groups in the anti-CCP antibody test, probability (p)<0.001, whereas no significant differences were found concerning COMP. The baseline serum COMP test correlated with age (p=0.0001), joint score for swollen joints (p=0.02), and C-reactive protein (CRP) (p=0.02).Conclusion: This study confirms the high diagnostic specificity of anti-CCP antibodies for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in a prospective population-based study of very early arthritis. Raised serum COMP levels were common in all diagnosis groups in this series, indicating cartilage involvement in both self-limiting and non-erosive disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the validity and reliability of the Finnish version of the Arthritis Impact Measurement Scales (AIMS2) in Finnish patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).Methods: The reliability of the Finnish AIMS2 (Finn-AIMS2) questionnaire was assessed by test retest procedure and internal consistency of health-status scales. Construct validity was assessed by factor analysis, and convergent validity by correlation coefficients, with several disease activity and functional status variables.Results: Internal consistency was 0.79-0.89 and test retest reliability 0.72-0.97. Factor analysis identified three factors: physical, psychosocial, and pain. There were strong correlations between the Finn-AIMS2 health-status scales and the Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ).Conclusion: The Finn-AIMS2 questionnaire is a reliable and valid instrument for measuring health status in middle-aged Finnish patients with RA. The results also support the applicability of AIMS2 in comparisons in multinational studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: To study associations between pain, trunk muscle strength, flexibility and disability in patients with lumbar disc herniation 2 months after surgery. DESIGN: Clinical cross-sectional survey. PARTICIPANTS: 172 operated lumbar disc herniation patients. METHODS: Back and leg pain on Visual Analogue Scale, Oswestry Disability Index and Brief Depression Scale were applied to assess the subjectively perceived outcome. Isometric and dynamic strength of trunk muscles and mobility of the lumbar spine were measured to mirror physical impairment. RESULTS: Two months after the operation median leg pain had decreased by 87% and back pain by 81%, respectively. However, moderate or severe leg pain was still reported by 25% and back pain by 20% of the patients. Approximately 30% of the patients perceived moderate or severe disability measured by the Oswestry index. Decreased muscle strength and spine mobility caused functional disability, especially in older patients and patients with postoperative pain. Furthermore, the ratio of trunk extension/flexion strength had changed in favour of the flexion muscles, being 0.98. Greater age and depression were associated with poorer postoperative recovery. CONCLUSION: Pain, decreased trunk muscle strength and decreased mobility still remained in a considerable proportion of patients with lumbar disc herniation 2 months after surgery. Early identification of those patients with restrictions is essential in order to commence rehabilitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: To estimate the functional independence of persons with spinal cord injury according to the Functional Independence Measure motor items. DESIGN: The study design was cross-sectional. SUBJECTS: All adult citizens of Helsinki with traumatic spinal cord injury were identified. The final study group consisted of 121/152 subjects (80%). METHODS: Functional Independence Measure assessments and American Spinal Cord Association examinations were performed on all subjects by the same experienced group including a physician and a physiotherapist. RESULTS: The most assistance-craving items were climbing stairs and bladder management. There were no significant differences between the genders. Subjects with tetraplegia needed significantly more assistance in all motor items except walking/wheelchair locomotion, where there was no significant difference. Subjects with tetraplegia in American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale D had higher Functional Independence Measure scores, more functional independence, than subjects in American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale A-C, the difference being significant. CONCLUSION: Because of new information, the results of this study may provide better possibilities for planning and coordinating rehabilitation measures and social services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To study the costs and use of healthcare for patients during the first months with early joint inflammation, in a population-based prospective referral study in Southern Sweden.Methods: Adult patients with arthritis for < 3 months and with onset of symptoms between 1 May 1999 and 1 May 2000 were referred from primary health centres to rheumatologists. Four clinical assessments were performed during a 6-month follow-up period. The direct medical costs for inpatient stays, outpatient visits, visits to general practitioners, and visits to health professionals, as well as costs for medication, radiographs, and laboratory tests were recorded from the onset of the disease up to 6 months of follow-up. Indirect costs for sick leave were also recorded.Results: Fifty-six of 71 referred patients agreed to participate. Thirteen (23%) had RA, 21 (38%) had reactive arthritis (ReA), 14 (25%) had undifferentiated arthritis, and eight (14%) had other arthritides. The median cost per patient in the entire group was USD 3362. The median cost per patient in the RA group was USD 4385, and USD 4085 in the ReA group. There was no statistically significant difference in the median costs per patient in the different diagnostic groups. Sick leave accounted for 44% of the total costs in the entire group, and 46% and 47%, respectively, in the RA and ReA groups.Conclusion: The costs of early arthritis are already considerable during the first months of the disease following the onset of the symptoms. The indirect costs due to sick leave accounted for nearly half of the costs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We determined the effect of geriatric rehabilitation of hip fracture patients on mortality, length of hospital stay, and functional recovery. In a randomized, controlled intervention study, 243 community dwelling hip fracture patients over 64 years of age were randomly assigned to 2 rehabilitation groups. The intervention group (n = 120) was referred to a geriatric ward for team rehabilitation, and the controls (n = 123) to local hospital wards for standard care. The median length of total hospital stay after a hip fracture operation was 34 (95% CI 28-38) days in the intervention group and 42 (95% CI 35-48) days in the control group (p = 0.05). The intervention group recovered instrumental activities of daily living faster (p = 0.05). Direct costs of medical care during the first year did not differ remarkably. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Few data are available on cellular markers of systemic inflammation and immune suppression in early acute pancreatitis. The aim of this study was to describe the cellular immune inflammatory status of patients with acute pancreatitis in relation to development of organ failure. Methods: Prospective study including 89 patients who presented within 72 h of onset of pain. Fifty-eight of them had mild disease (Grade I group), 19 had severe disease with no organ dysfunction (Grade II group) and 12 had severe disease with organ dysfunction (Grade III group). Serial blood samples were collected on admission and following 2 days. Phagocyte surface markers were analysed using flow cytometry. Results: The proportion of HLA-DR-positive monocytes, a marker of immune suppression, and CD11b expression level on neutrophils and monocytes, a marker of systemic inflammation, were related to Grades I-III (P for trend <0.001). In Grade III patients, the proportion of HLA-DR-positive monocytes was low on presentation, or decreased rapidly during follow-up, whereas CD11b expression levels were persistently high. L-selectin and monocyte CD14 expression levels were not related to disease severity. Conclusions: Immune suppression develops early, rapidly and unexpectedly in patients with acute pancreatitis. Monitoring immune inflammatory status may provide the means by which to identify patients who benefit from biological response modifier therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate self-assessed impairments and impact of fibromyalgia [FMS] in 86 patients and to compare the results with those from the 74 rheumatoid patients [RA] who attended a threeweek inpatient course. Methods: Self-estimated symptoms as elicited using a multivariant questionnaire together with the Epworth Sleepiness Scale, the Rimons' Brief Depression Scale, and Arthritis Impact Measurement Scales were compared between the two cohorts. Results: Fibromyalgia patients identified significantly more pain, sleep disorders, daytime dozing, and difficulties in social activities, and were subjectively more depressive and anxious than RA patients. However, assessments of global health and ability to work in the two groups did not differ significantly, while RA patients' fitness and 'functional ability' were assessed as slightly poorer. Conclusion: Fibromyalgia patients experienced more psychosocial problems and felt impairments equally or even more than RA patients. The role of these symptoms in the disability of FMS patients would also be reliably assessed in outcome measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Muscle strength and bone mineral density (BMD) at the lumbar spine (BMDspine) and femoral neck (BMDfem) were determined in 20 healthy women and in 20 women with recent onset rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The mean duration of articular symptoms of the patients was eleven months and none of them had used glucocorticoids or disease modifying antirheumatic drugs. BMDs were measured by dual x-ray absorptiometry (DXA). Knee extension, trunk extension, and flexion as well as grip strength were measured with David 200 and Digitest dynamometers. BMDspine (1.17 g/cm2 and 1.20 g/cm2) and BMDfem (0.98 g/cm2 and 0.96 g/cm2) between the women with early RA and healthy women did not differ. However, knee extension strength was 46%, grip strength 31%, trunk extension strength 14% and overall muscle strength index 29% lower in RA women (p < 0.020-0.001) than in healthy subjects. Femoral neck BMD correlated statistically significantly with knee extension strength and muscle strength index in both groups and with trunk extension and flexion strength as well as rapid force development in RA women. The data indicates that the loss of muscle strength is clearly visible during the first months of disease but the significant bone loss at central bone regions develops later. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]