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[Polyarthritis associated with myelodysplastic syndromes]
I Carvajal Méndez1, J A García Vadillo, A Herranz Varela
1Servicios de Reumatología, Hospital Universitario de La Princesa, Madrid.
Abstract:
Recently, different rheumatic manifestations have been reported in association with myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS). The objective of the present report was to know the prevalence and characteristics of joint inflammatory manifestations associated with MDS in our environment. Three cases were found in the review of 55 patients with MDS diagnosed in our institution in the last three years. The three patients had chronic non-erosive polyarthritis, with a poor response to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and required intermediate doses of glucocorticoids for its control. The arthritis was present in two patients at blood disease diagnosis. The prevalence of arthritis associated with MDS in our series was 5.4% (95% CI: 1.1% to 15.1%). Articular symptoms may be present before the hematological diagnosis; therefore, MDS must be considered in the differential diagnosis of late onset polyarthritis, particularly when associated with cytopenia. Glucocorticoid therapy at intermediate doses is usually required to control the articular symptoms.
Insights
Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) can cause chronic polyarthritis. This inflammatory joint condition often requires glucocorticoids and may precede a blood disorder diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Hematology
- Oncology
Context:
- Rheumatic manifestations are increasingly recognized in patients with myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS).
- Understanding the prevalence and characteristics of joint inflammation in MDS is crucial for early diagnosis and management.
- This study investigates inflammatory arthritis associated with MDS within a specific institutional setting.
Purpose:
- To determine the prevalence of joint inflammatory manifestations in patients with myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS).
- To characterize the clinical features of arthritis associated with MDS.
- To assess the treatment response for arthritis in MDS patients.
Summary:
- A review of 55 patients with MDS identified three cases (5.4% prevalence) of chronic non-erosive polyarthritis.
- Arthritis was present at the time of hematological diagnosis in two patients.
- The polyarthritis showed poor response to NSAIDs, necessitating intermediate-dose glucocorticoids for control.
Impact:
- Highlights the importance of considering MDS in the differential diagnosis of late-onset polyarthritis, especially with co-existing cytopenia.
- Suggests that early recognition of articular symptoms can lead to timely MDS diagnosis.
- Indicates that intermediate-dose glucocorticoids are often required for managing MDS-associated arthritis.