Seham Abdallah Elazab, Shrouk F Mohamed, Abdelrahman Mohamed Hatata, Mai Abdelhalim Moussa, Eman Elsayed Abd Elsalam, Aya Khafage, Ahmed Shalaby Almezaine
{"title":"Familial Hypercholesterolemia with Bilateral Recurrent Extensor Tendon Xanthomas: A Case Report.","authors":"Seham Abdallah Elazab, Shrouk F Mohamed, Abdelrahman Mohamed Hatata, Mai Abdelhalim Moussa, Eman Elsayed Abd Elsalam, Aya Khafage, Ahmed Shalaby Almezaine","doi":"10.2174/0115733971381706250827042633","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.2174/0115733971381706250827042633","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HeFH) is a prevalent hereditary disorder. It is defined as high cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein levels from birth, which increases the risk of developing cardiovascular disease at a young age. Despite its considerable prevalence, HeFH is frequently underdiagnosed, especially in groups of people with poor socioeconomic backgrounds. Early diagnosis and proper treatment are necessary to decrease cardiovascular problems.</p><p><strong>Case presentation: </strong>We report a 37-year-old female from a rural area. She presented five years ago with non-specific knee pain and cosmetic distress due to bilateral nodules. There was a history of multiple excisions for tendon xanthomas (five times) since age 16, alongside high LDL-C levels (400-600 mg/dL). During the physical examination, the knees and elbows exhibited several tendon xanthomas, and blood tests confirmed elevated cholesterol levels. To confirm the diagnosis of evident HeFH, we followed the Dutch Lipid Clinical Network guidelines. She was put on the proper medication and given a five-year follow-up.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Tendon xanthomas are characteristic signs that are often viewed as cosmetic concerns rather than indicators of potential vascular problems. Managing HeFH involves making lifestyle changes and using medications to lower cholesterol; however, many patients struggle to reach the normal level of LDL. So, there is a continuous need for screenings to avoid cardiovascular risks. The case highlights the importance of early diagnosis and treatment of patients with HeFH, emphasizing the need for lipid-lowering therapy and family cascade screening.</p>","PeriodicalId":11188,"journal":{"name":"Current rheumatology reviews","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.3,"publicationDate":"2025-10-03","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145231797","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Risk of Autoimmune Rheumatic Diseases following COVID-19: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.","authors":"Aris P Agouridis, Anastasios Makris, Danae Ellina, Georgios Vougiouklakis, Konstantinos Alexakis, Georgios Toulkeridis, Despo Ierodiakonou, Constantinos Tsioutis, Nikolaos Spernovasilis","doi":"10.2174/0115733971382167250921213314","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.2174/0115733971382167250921213314","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>Multiple cases of autoimmune rheumatic diseases following COVID-19 have been reported in the literature. This study aims to systematically determine whether COVID-19 affects the incidence of autoimmune rheumatic diseases.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>We searched MEDLINE (PubMed), Global Index Medicus, and Cochrane Library da-tabases up to March 30, 2024, for studies evaluating the incidence of systemic autoimmune dis-eases following SARS-CoV-2 infection in adult populations.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Eight cohort studies with 5,537,742 COVID-19 and 18,433,129 non-COVID-19 patients were included in our pooled analysis. The risk of developing mixed connective tissue disease and Behçet's disease in COVID-19 patients was increased by 168% (RR: 2.68, 95% CI (1.14 to 6.34), I²=94%) and 101% (RR: 2.01, 95% CI (1.4 to 2.87), I²=6%), respectively, compared to uninfected subjects. A 45% increase in the risk of both rheumatoid arthritis (RR: 1.45, 95% CI (1.02 to 2.06), I²=99%) and psoriasis (RR: 1.45, 95% CI (1.10 to 1.92), I²=98%) after SARS-CoV-2 infection was noted. The risk of dermatopolymyositis was 40% higher (RR: 1.40, 95% CI (1.10 to 1.79), I²=68%) in the COVID-19 group. Non-significant increases in risk were observed in the pooled analysis for ankylosing spondylitis (RR: 1.39, 95% CI (0.94 to 2.05), I²=93%), systemic lupus er-ythematosus (RR: 1.21, 95% CI (0.70 to 2.07), I²=98%), systemic sclerosis (RR: 1.23, 95% CI (0.73 to 2.04), I²=89%), Sjögren's syndrome (RR: 1.28, 95% CI (0.91 to 1.80), I²=95%), and pol-ymyalgia rheumatica (RR: 1.45, 95% CI (0.94 to 2.25), I²=94%).</p><p><strong>Discussion: </strong>Since the onset of COVID-19, several cases of new-onset autoimmune rheumatic diseases following SARS-CoV-2 infection have been reported. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first systematic review and meta-analysis assessing the impact of COVID-19 on the risk of developing autoimmune rheumatic diseases. Overall, COVID-19 increases the risk of autoim-mune rheumatic diseases, especially during the first year after infection.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>COVID-19 is associated with an increased risk of several autoimmune rheumatic diseases, including mixed connective tissue disease, Behçet's disease, rheumatoid arthritis, psori-asis, and dermatopolymyositis. However, our results must be interpreted with caution due to high inter-study heterogeneity.</p><p><strong>Registration: </strong>PROSPERO CRD42023480593.</p>","PeriodicalId":11188,"journal":{"name":"Current rheumatology reviews","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.3,"publicationDate":"2025-10-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145231806","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Low Back Pain among Healthcare Workers in University Hospital in Tunisia.","authors":"Noura Belhadj, Ines Rassas, Cyrine Ben Taleb, Narjes Belhadj Chabbeh, Asma Gaddour, Asma Kheder, Aouatef Mahfoudh","doi":"10.2174/0115733971387161250916043838","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.2174/0115733971387161250916043838","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>Low back pain is a real public health issue. It is a common musculoskel-etal disorder linked to work among health professionals. The objective of this study is to deter-mine the frequency of low back pain among healthcare workers and to study the associated risk factors.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>This is a cross-sectional study conducted over a period of 6 months during the year 2022 involving a sample of the healthcare staff at Mahdia University Hospital. An anonymous self-administered questionnaire was completed by the healthcare staff, including anthropometric, socio-economic, professional lifestyle habits, and the characteristics of low back pain.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>A total of 96 participants responded to the questionnaire. The population was mostly fe-male (75.3%) with an average age of 36.21 ± 8.78 years. The average BMI was 27.7 kg/m2 ± 4.5 kg/m2, with nurses being the most numerous group, followed by midwives. The professional ac-tivities were mainly care activities (76.7%). The frequency of low back pain was estimated at 82.2% (n=79). In univariate analysis, a significant association was observed between the low back pain and age (p < 0.001), marital status (p = 0.027), physical activity (p = 0.03), job seniori-ty (p = 0.001), care activities (p = 0.03), sitting position (p = 0.04) and weight carried (p = 0.003).</p><p><strong>Discussion: </strong>The prevalence of low back pain in our study was 82.2%. This finding aligns with results from studies conducted in Egypt at Zigazig Hospital (79%) and in Rwanda at Kanombe Military Hospital (78%).</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>In this study, multiple factors linked to low back pain were identified, most of which are modifiable, highlighting the need to implement effective preventive measures to reduce the prevalence of low back pain and limit the socio-economic damage it generates.</p>","PeriodicalId":11188,"journal":{"name":"Current rheumatology reviews","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.3,"publicationDate":"2025-10-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145205681","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Potential Anti-Inflammatory and Analgesic Effects of Saffron in Patients with Osteoarthritis: A Randomized Controlled Trial.","authors":"Seyedeh Zahra Mirfeizi, Nafiseh Abdolahi, Alireza Fatemi, Mehrdad Aghaei, Gholamreza Roshandel, Mohammadrafi Damirchi, Mona Firoozabadi","doi":"10.2174/0115733971383502250908065241","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.2174/0115733971383502250908065241","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>Osteoarthritis (OA) is a prevalent joint disorder with a significant global impact. Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used for OA treatment but can have adverse effects. This study aimed to investigate the potential anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects of saffron in patients with OA.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A randomized, double-blind, controlled trial was conducted in patients with OA aged 50 to 70 years. The intervention group received saffron tablets (containing 50 mg of saffron extract, administered orally once daily) for 12 weeks, while the control group received a matched placebo. Pain severity, physical activity, and levels of IL-1 beta and TNF-alpha were assessed using validated measures and quantitative methods. NSAID treatment was monitored.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>The saffron group exhibited a significant decrease in IL-1β levels, indicating an anti-inflammatory effect. Both groups demonstrated improvements in pain severity and physical activity scores. However, the saffron group exhibited a significant reduction in NSAID use over time.</p><p><strong>Discussion: </strong>This study suggests that saffron may be an effective and safe supplement for managing osteoarthritis by reducing inflammation, improving symptoms, and lowering NSAID use. These results support previous research on saffron's anti-inflammatory properties. However, limitations such as a small, mostly female sample, high dropout in the control group, and self-reported adherence highlight the need for larger, more rigorous studies.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Saffron consumption may have potential anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects in OA patients. Furthermore, saffron supplementation may reduce the need for NSAIDs, potentially minimizing associated complications. Further research is needed to explore the full benefits and mechanisms of saffron in OA management.</p><p><strong>Clinical trial registration number: </strong>IRCT2016091029777N1.</p>","PeriodicalId":11188,"journal":{"name":"Current rheumatology reviews","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.3,"publicationDate":"2025-09-15","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145079953","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Benjamin Gompels, Alexandra MacMillan, Simone Castagno, Antonia Vogt, Wasim Khan
{"title":"Evaluating the Effect of Hypoxia on Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stromal Cells In Vivo: A Systematic Review.","authors":"Benjamin Gompels, Alexandra MacMillan, Simone Castagno, Antonia Vogt, Wasim Khan","doi":"10.2174/0115733971371615250825101351","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.2174/0115733971371615250825101351","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stromal Cells (ADMSCs) are a developing area of cell therapy due to their ease of access and differentiation potential. Within in vitro studies, culturing cells at low oxygen tension (< 21%) can modulate the immune function of MSCs, enhance cell proliferation, and reduce cell senescence. This could impact their clinical utility when implanted in vivo. This systematic review examined the effect of hypoxic culture on ADMSCs in vitro and their behaviour when implanted into an in vivo disease model.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>This systematic review was registered on the PROSPERO database with the identification number CRD42023401755. A literature search was performed across four databases: EMBASE, MEDLINE, PubMed, and Cochrane.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>320 studies were extracted from Embase, 122 from Medline via Ovid, and no studies were selected from the Cochrane database. Before screening the abstracts, 50 records were removed as duplicates. Following the abstract screening, 330 records were excluded from the search. Based on the complete text, 62 papers were included according to the applied criteria, as shown in Table 1. The final number of included articles was five.</p><p><strong>Discussion: </strong>In several selected studies, hypoxic culture (or preconditioning) of ADMSCs has been shown to positively affect motility, promoting cell differentiation and the resolution of ischaemic injury. However, hypoxic culture was not universally successful across the selected in vivo study models. Selected studies indicate that hypoxic preconditioning of ADMSCs improves motility, aiding cell differentiation and the healing of ischaemic injury. While in vivo models suggest enhanced cell function with hypoxic culture, results vary, reflecting differences in culture methods and technical translation issues between in vitro and in vivo models. The limited number of papers reviewed makes it challenging to draw broad conclusions due to the diversity of models and methods.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>To conclude, a common focus in the studies is VEGFA activation, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic target, especially for retinal disorders that affect angiogenesis. Nonetheless, the influence of conditioned MSCs on VEGF-particularly in musculoskeletal research such as cartilage regeneration-has not been thoroughly examined. Future reviews must focus on this gap as the field progresses.</p>","PeriodicalId":11188,"journal":{"name":"Current rheumatology reviews","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.3,"publicationDate":"2025-09-11","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145063587","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Mohammad Mehdi Lari Haghighat, Babak Haghpanah, Alireza Milajerdi
{"title":"Dietary Vitamin K Intake and Fracture Risk: A Systematic Review and Dose-Response Meta-Analysis on the Interplay with Vitamin D.","authors":"Mohammad Mehdi Lari Haghighat, Babak Haghpanah, Alireza Milajerdi","doi":"10.2174/0115733971393704250828112958","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.2174/0115733971393704250828112958","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Fractures are a significant global health issue, particularly among older adults, and are associated with substantial morbidity and mortality. While several risk factors are well-established, the role of dietary vitamin K in fracture prevention remains unclear, with existing epidemiological studies yielding inconsistent results.</p><p><strong>Objective: </strong>This meta-analysis aimed to comprehensively evaluate the association between dietary vitamin K intake and the risk of fractures, including a dose-response analysis to explore potential non-linear relationships.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A comprehensive search was conducted in the PubMed and EMBASE databases, covering the period from January 1966 to July 2025. The certainty of the evidence was assessed using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) framework.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>A total of six studies encompassing 93,776 participants and 1394 instances of fractures were analyzed. We found a trend towards a decreased risk of overall fractures with increased vitamin K consumption, with a risk ratio of 0.83 (95% CI, 0.68-1.01). Similarly, vitamin K intake showed a trend toward a reduced risk of hip fractures (risk ratio: 0.76, 95% CI: 0.56-1.02; I2 = 43.91%). Furthermore, the risk of overall fractures decreased with dietary vitamin K consumption up to 120 μg/day.</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>Our meta-analysis suggests that dietary vitamin K intake may have a protective effect against fractures. We observed a U-shaped association between fracture risk and vitamin K intake at recommended dietary allowance (RDA) levels. Further studies in diverse populations, examining different forms of vitamin K and their relation to fracture risk at various skeletal sites, are warranted.</p><p><strong>Systematic review registration: </strong>PROSPERO 1016592.</p>","PeriodicalId":11188,"journal":{"name":"Current rheumatology reviews","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.3,"publicationDate":"2025-09-09","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145063499","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Bibliometric Analysis of Capillaroscopy Use in Systemic Sclerosis: Current State and Advances from 2000 to 2024.","authors":"Sevil Ceyhan Doğan, Mert Atas","doi":"10.2174/0115733971388040250815185341","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.2174/0115733971388040250815185341","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>Systemic sclerosis is a complex autoimmune disease characterized by diverse clinical manifestations that vary among individuals. It is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to evaluate the existing literature on the use of capillaroscopy in systemic sclerosis and to perform a bibliometric analysis.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Data were downloaded from Scopus on 2nd October 2024, and analyzed using VOSviewer and the Biblioshiny package programs.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>A total of 819 articles from 246 sources were analyzed. Italy led in the number of publications (n=209) and the frequency of international cooperation. The article, titled \"Nailfold Videocapillaroscopy Assessment of Microvascular Damage in Systemic Sclerosis,\" published in The Journal of Rheumatology, has garnered 606 citations, making it the most cited article. Cutolo M. was the most influential author, with 1302 citations and 107 publications, while the University of Genova was the most prolific institution. The investigation identified significant issue clusters in the literature related to keywords, such as \"systemic sclerosis,\" \"Raynaud's phenomenon,\" \"capillaroscopy,\" and \"digital ulcers.\"</p><p><strong>Discussion: </strong>This study presents the first comprehensive bibliometric analysis of capillaroscopy use in systemic sclerosis. The findings suggest that scientific interest in the subject is increasing and that research leadership is primarily located in European countries, with Italy at the forefront. The most frequently used keywords in the thematic analysis indicated that capillaroscopy can be used not only for diagnosis but also for monitoring complications. The use of only the Scopus database and the inclusion of only original articles in the study constitute limitations. This methodological choice was made to ensure data integrity.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Understanding the research on capillaroscopy applications in systemic sclerosis can benefit rheumatologists and provide ideas for future investigations. This bibliometric analysis highlights key authors, citation patterns, collaboration structures, and emerging research issues over the past two decades, providing a comprehensive overview of the discipline.</p>","PeriodicalId":11188,"journal":{"name":"Current rheumatology reviews","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.3,"publicationDate":"2025-08-26","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144946380","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"mRNAome Analysis of Whole Blood of Patients with Psoriatic Arthritis, Ankylosing Spondylitis, and Rheumatoid Arthritis.","authors":"Hui Song, Siming Gao","doi":"10.2174/0115733971367944250630071902","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.2174/0115733971367944250630071902","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>Psoriatic arthritis (PsA), ankylosing spondylitis (AS), and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are common chronic inflammatory diseases, with some clinical similarities and differences. mRNAome analysis provides a valuable approach to understanding disease pathogenesis. To elucidate the underlying mechanisms of similarities and differences among these inflammatory diseases, we analyzed the commonly and specifically expressed mRNAs in the whole blood of patients with PsA, AS, and RA.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Raw gene expression datasets (GSE61281, GSE25101, and GSE93272) were obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus database and subjected to differential gene expression analysis using R program version 4.4.1. Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analyses were used to analyze gene function, biological networks, and canonical pathways.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>A total of 652, 78, and 246 genes were specifically expressed in the whole blood of patients with PsA, AS, and RA, respectively. Additionally, 17 commonly expressed genes were upregulated in patients with PsA, AS, and RA. The primary pathways associated with commonly expressed genes included neurodegenerative diseases, oxidative phosphorylation, reactive oxygen species, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.</p><p><strong>Discussion: </strong>The gene expression analysis revealed both specific and common genetic signatures in the whole blood of patients with PsA, AS, and RA. Understanding these genetic patterns may provide insights into the clinical similarities and differences among these arthritic conditions and enhance our comprehension of their pathogenesis.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>This study identified distinct and shared gene expression patterns in the whole blood of patients with PsA, AS, and RA. Most of these genes are predominantly associated with oxidative phosphorylation, reactive oxygen species, ribosome function, and neurodegenerative diseases.</p>","PeriodicalId":11188,"journal":{"name":"Current rheumatology reviews","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.3,"publicationDate":"2025-08-19","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145014045","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Integrative Rheumatology: A Holistic Approach to the Management of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus.","authors":"Ailia Ali, Kichul Ko, Kimberly Trotter","doi":"10.2174/0115733971389117250807101431","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.2174/0115733971389117250807101431","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Integrative medicine, which combines complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) with conventional treatments, is increasingly utilized by patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) to manage their condition.</p><p><strong>Objective: </strong>This study aims to review the CAM available for SLE patients.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Studies focusing on CAM interventions in patients diagnosed with SLE were identified via PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar through a systematic search conducted to identify relevant articles published up to May 2024.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>The potential therapeutic roles of specific micronutrients (vitamins A, C, D, and E), macronutrients (omega-3 fatty acids and probiotics), and supplements (ginger, turmeric) were examined, detailing their mechanisms and emerging evidence supporting their use. Additionally, the roles of dietary changes and mind-body interventions were discussed.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Despite the absence of established guidelines for supplementation and other interventions, this review emphasizes the need for personalized approaches tailored to individual characteristics and comorbidities. Healthcare providers are encouraged to enhance their knowledge of these CAM modalities to optimize patient care and improve overall quality of life for SLE patients.</p>","PeriodicalId":11188,"journal":{"name":"Current rheumatology reviews","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.3,"publicationDate":"2025-08-15","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144946313","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Mehreen Inam Illahi, Murk Fatima, Samra Bokhari, Huma Salahuddin, Sofia Amjad
{"title":"Association of 14-3-3η with Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF-α) and Matrix Metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) in Rheumatoid Arthritis.","authors":"Mehreen Inam Illahi, Murk Fatima, Samra Bokhari, Huma Salahuddin, Sofia Amjad","doi":"10.2174/0115733971375944250811060418","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.2174/0115733971375944250811060418","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>14-3-3η (eta), an intracellular chaperonin, is elevated in the serum of patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis, a progressive inflammatory \"autoimmune\" disease that impacts joint function and daily activities. This study aimed to assess 14-3-3η levels in DMARD-naïve Rheumatoid Arthritis patients and analyze their association with TNF-α, MMP-1, RA factor, ACCP, and disease activity.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A cross-sectional study was conducted on 90 DMARD-naïve RA patients. The clinical evaluation included the Health Assessment Questionnaire-Disability Index (HAQ-DI) and the Disease Activity Score of 28 joints using ESR (DAS28-ESR). Serum levels of RF, ACCP, 14-3-3η, TNF-α, and MMP-1 were measured using ELISA. Mann-Whitney and Spearman correlation tests were applied, with p < 0.05 considered statistically significant.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Among 90 RA patients (76 females, 14 males), 68(75.6%) were seropositive. Serum levels of 14-3-3η and TNF-α differed significantly between seropositive and seronegative groups. TNF- α correlated positively with both 14-3-3η (r = 0.397, p < 0.001) and MMP-1 (r = 0.284, p = 0.007).</p><p><strong>Discussion: </strong>The correlation between 14-3-3η and TNF-α suggests a possible role for 14-3-3η as an adjunctive biomarker in early RA. While findings are promising, the small sample size and lack of follow-up warrant cautious interpretation. Further longitudinal studies are needed to confirm its clinical utility and integration within composite biomarker models.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Serum 14-3-3η may serve as a supportive biomarker for the diagnosis of early rheumatoid arthritis and assessment of disease activity. Its correlation with TNF-α reflects a potential link to inflammatory burden. Further large-scale, longitudinal studies are needed to confirm its clinical utility.</p>","PeriodicalId":11188,"journal":{"name":"Current rheumatology reviews","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.3,"publicationDate":"2025-08-15","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144946340","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}