A new study from the AIDA Network unveils MAS warning signs in Still's Disease

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DOI: 10.1007/s11739-023-03408-3

Macrophage activation syndrome (MAS) may represent a challenging and even lethal complication of Still’s disease. Consequently, an adequate treatment in the proper clinical setting is essential in such patients. In order to early identify MAS, a study was conducted on a group of 414 Still's disease patients, 39 of which developing MAS. The study found several clinical and laboratory signs that were associated with MAS occurrence. These included joint involvement, liver issues, lymph node swelling, pneumonia, respiratory distress, platelet abnormalities, abnormal levels of ferritin, liver enzymes, albumin, and LDH. Multivariate logistic analysis also revealed that hepatomegaly and monoarthritis were directly associated with MAS, while younger age at onset and normal platelet count or thrombocytosis were protective factors. This study provides valuable insights into the factors associated with MAS development in Still's disease patients, supporting a fast and better management of at high-risk patients.