Background: FOP is an ultra-rare genetic disorder characterized by cumulative heterotopic ossification ([HO]; often preceded by episodic flare-ups), leading to physical disability and shortened life expectancy. FOP is diagnosed and managed by multiple healthcare professionals.
Objective: A prospective, 36-month, global natural history study (NCT02322255) was designed to investigate FOP progression, HO, and impact on physical function. Here, we report 12-month outcomes.
Methods: Individuals with FOP aged ≤65years with documented ACVR1R206H mutation were eligible. HO volume was assessed by low-dose whole-body computed tomography (WBCT). Physical function was evaluated using Cumulative Analogue Joint Involvement Scale (CAJIS) and FOP Physical Function Questionnaire (FOP-PFQ). Changes from Baseline (CfB) in HO volume, CAJIS and FOP‑PFQ at Month 12 were evaluated.
Results: Of 114 participants with Baseline data, 99 (aged 4–56years, mean 17years; 56% male) had a Month 12 assessment; 93 had evaluable Baseline and Month 12 data. Over 12-months, 40% developed new HO; 48% reported ≥1 flare-up. Of participants with new HO, 65% reported ≥1 flare-up (mean 2.3/year); 35% reported no flare-up. Of participants without new HO, 43% reported ≥1 flare-up (mean 1.8/year). Across participants, mean (SD) new HO volume in those reporting flare-ups was 39,718 (91,969) mm3 (n=48) vs 5,081 (14,582) mm3 (n=45) in those who did not. Mean CfB in CAJIS and FOP-PFQ were minimal and similar across participants with/without new HO.
Conclusions: Among participants, HO volume increased over 12-months. In those with new HO, this was not preceded by flare-ups in over one third of cases. Across all participants, mean new HO volume in those reporting flare-ups was ~8 times higher than in those who did not. CAJIS and FOP-PFQ were not sufficiently sensitive to assess disease progression over 12-months. New HO volume can be used to measure FOP disease progression over the course of a clinical trial.