Upper extremity function and strength, assessed with unsupported upper limb exercise test (UULEX), is impaired in patients with Takayasu Arteritis.

Abstract

Objectives: We aimed to assess the upper extremity (UE) muscle function/strength of TAK patients compared to healthy controls (HC) and the factors affecting functional outcomes.

Methods: Patients with TAK (n=51, F/M: 42/9, mean age: 44 (13.3) years) were compared cross-sectionally with HC (n=51), 24 patients also had a follow-up. Muscle outcomes were assessed by Unsupported Upper Limb Exercise Test (UULEX), handgrip strength (HS), and QuickDASH.

Results: UULEX completion time was 171.1 (103.5) seconds in TAK patients, and 432 (44.7) seconds in the HC group (p<0.001). Both right HS (TAK: 22.9 (7.25) vs HC: 27.3 (2.7) kg, p=0.002) and left HS (TAK: 21.9 (6.8) vs HC: 25.4 (7.5) kg, p=0.014) were reduced in TAK patients. UULEX was significantly decreased in patients with active disease (104.4 (62.1) sec. vs. 183.5 (105.3) sec., p=0.023). In follow-up measurements, HS and QuickDASH scores were similar, while UULEX completion time increased significantly. UULEX completion time decreased significantly in patients who had a relapse during the follow-up (-37.6 (62.9) sec. vs 73.2 (87.5) sec., p=0.001).

Conclusion: UE muscle function/strength is impaired in TAK patients, associated with disease relapses. UULEX appears to be a promising functional test that shows an association with clinical and radiological parameters and may have potential for monitoring disease activity or progression.