A new study examines the similarities and differences among disease activity indices used to monitor rheumatoid arthritis. Researchers found that while there are high correlations among the indices, they were not interchangeable, highlighting the need for further analysis of RA in patients using various indices.
The FDA has granted orphan drug status to Octagam 10%, the first and only IVIg treatment for adult dermatomyositis. The therapy is expected to become the first treatment option for adults with this rare disease, which affects approximately 10 out of every million U.S. residents.
Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine found that COVID-19 vaccination elicited a response in nearly nine out of ten people with weakened immune systems. However, the responses were only about one-third as strong as those mounted by healthy people. Despite this, the discovery is encouraging news for a population at hig...
A study published in Current Rheumatology Reviews found that rehabilitation exercises significantly improved functional strength and reduced weight in knee osteoarthritis patients. The researchers also noted an increase in exercise adherence among the rehabilitation group compared to the control group.
A new study found that parental smoking may increase the risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis in children when they reach adulthood. The research, published in Arthritis & Rheumatology, associated parental smoking with a 75% higher risk of developing the disease, even after controlling for personal smoking habits as an adult.
Researchers discovered a protein called CTRP9 associated with pulmonary function in scleroderma patients with interstitial lung disease. Patients with higher CTRP9 levels developed more severe lung disease, while low levels were linked to preserved function. The study suggests CTRP9 could help predict treatment needs for these patients.
A mobile application developed by Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona and UPC researchers has been tested for its ability to predict the severity of disabling fatigue in patients with chronic fatigue syndrome/myalgic encephalomyelitis, particularly in women. The app measures heart rate variability and shares results with medical staff.
The European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology taskforce provides guidelines for treating severe COVID-19 with immunomodulatory therapies. The recommendations consider the individual's condition and stage of the disease, including antiviral medicines, oxygen therapy, and anticoagulation.
The European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR) has established a framework to address the unmet need for support of female rheumatologists and other healthcare professionals in academic rheumatology. The framework outlines six thematic areas with 29 potential interventions to accelerate gender-equitable career advancement.
A global review of diagnosis delays in axial spondyloarthritis reveals common challenges, including inadequate patient access to rheumatologists and poorly defined referral pathways. The report aims to empower stakeholders to reduce this delay and improve patient outcomes.
Children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) are at high risk for uveitis relapses after discontinuing disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). The study found that patients are more likely to experience uveitis events within the first 3-24 months after DMARD withdrawal.
Maxime Dougados and Josef Smolen are the recipients of the EULAR Meritorious Service Award, which honors their contributions to the field of rheumatology. They have published over 1000 articles and have promoted initiatives such as FOREUM and ACR/EULAR criteria for rheumatoid arthritis.
Researchers found that online mental health intervention improved anxiety and depression in people with scleroderma, a disease causing skin and connective tissue tightening. The four-week program offered group mental health intervention from trained peer support leaders, resulting in significant improvements six weeks later.
A new study published in Arthritis & Rheumatology found that only a minority of patients with knee osteoarthritis used non-surgical care such as physical therapy and knee injections. The study suggests that surgery may be more commonly substituted for conservative care in regions with high rates of knee replacements.
Researchers discovered a possible link between oral microbes and rheumatoid arthritis, finding similar bacterial compositions in patients' mouths as those at risk of developing the disease. The study suggests that potentially pro-inflammatory bacteria, such as Prevotella and Veillonella, may play a role in the disease
A new protocol called Quit Connect has been shown to increase electronic referrals to free, state-run tobacco quitlines among patients with rheumatic diseases. The program, which leverages electronic health record prompts for nurses and medical assistants, resulted in a 71% increase in referrals.
A recent study estimates that 858,000 Americans use opioids for knee pain, resulting in $0.5 billion annual costs and nearly $14 billion lifetime costs. The study suggests substantial savings from preventing opioid use for knee osteoarthritis pain management.
Radiological images confirm that COVID-19 can trigger autoimmune reactions leading to rheumatoid arthritis flares and other musculoskeletal disorders. Imaging helps explain prolonged symptoms and directs patients to the right physician for treatment.
The study reveals a significant disparity in lupus prevalence across racial and ethnic groups, with female rates significantly higher than male rates. The analysis estimates that approximately 204,295 individuals in the US have been diagnosed with lupus as of 2018.
A new study found that lower hydroxychloroquine blood levels are associated with a higher risk of clots in lupus patients. By monitoring blood levels, clinicians may be able to reduce clotting rates by up to 12% with increased dosing.
Researchers are developing new classification criteria for antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), a life-threatening autoimmune disorder, to improve its diagnosis and treatment. The new criteria will help identify patients most likely to have APS, allowing for high-quality research and better prevention and treatment options.
A new study analyzed medical claims data from Taiwan, finding that patients with rheumatoid arthritis live longer after disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs called biologics became available in 2003. The estimated lifetime cost was $72,953, highlighting the need for cost-effectiveness evaluation.
David T. Felson, a renowned Boston University rheumatologist, has been honored with the Lee C. Howley Prize from the Arthritis Foundation for his groundbreaking research on osteoarthritis (OA). His work has led to significant advances in understanding OA risk factors, treatments, and outcome measurement.
Researchers from HSS presented studies on renal disorders, venous thromboembolism after total knee replacement, and pediatric patients with rheumatologic diseases. The surveys also explored perceptions of COVID-19 risk among rheumatologists and the use of clinical disease activity indexes in telemedicine.
Research highlights the need for tuberculosis (TB) screening and ongoing clinical care for people on methotrexate living in areas with high TB prevalence. Methotrexate users taking corticosteroids or immunosuppressants are at increased risk of TB infection.
A new study shows that methotrexate significantly improves physical function and reduces inflammation in adults with primary knee osteoarthritis. Patients who received methotrexate treatment had improvements in WOMAC scores and reduced inflammatory markers, while those taking glucosamine showed no significant benefits.
The new guideline recommends increased use of biologic drugs, reduced steroid treatment, and regular immunizations for infectious diseases. Disease-modifying treatments are now more rapidly escalated in JIA patients, reducing the need for oral or intravenous steroids.
A new study found that people of color with rheumatic disease are more likely to experience poor health outcomes from COVID-19 infection, including hospitalization and necessary ventilation support. Black and Latinx patients had significantly higher odds of needing hospitalization and ventilation support compared to white patients.
The American College of Rheumatology (ACR) honored 37 distinguished members with the 2020 Master of the ACR designation for their contributions to rheumatology research and patient care. The ACR also recognized leading researchers and clinicians with its Awards of Distinction, including the Presidential Gold Medal and the Paulding Phel...
The new RA guideline recommends starting patients on methotrexate and continuing with treatment, rather than rapidly switching to other drugs. The guideline also aims to minimize the use of glucocorticoids due to their serious side effects.
Researchers analyzed data from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2017 to find a high burden of musculoskeletal disorders across the globe. The team found approximately 1.3 billion prevalent cases and 121,300 deaths due to these conditions.
Studies found Black, Latinx, and Asian patients with rheumatic diseases are more likely to experience severe COVID-19 outcomes. These disparities will worsen existing health issues for patients with rheumatic disease during the pandemic
A study of 141 pediatric patients transferred to an adult rheumatology clinic found that continued insurance coverage and referral from a pediatric rheumatologist reduced delays in attending adult visits. Pediatric patients with connective tissue diseases or Black race were particularly vulnerable to unscheduled hospitalizations.
A recent study published in The Lancet Rheumatology found that nearly 90% of shoulder replacement implants last more than ten years. Patients reported continued benefits from the operation, with a sustained positive effect on their lives for at least a decade.
Dr Basil Masri was awarded the IOF Medal of Achievement in 2020 for his significant contributions to understanding and managing osteoporosis. He has also made notable achievements in developing registries and tools, such as the Jordanian Hip Fracture registry and FRAX tool.
The prevalence of gout increased worldwide between 1990 and 2017, reaching approximately 41.2 million cases in 2017. High body mass index and impaired kidney function were identified as key risk factors for the disease.
A major global systematic review has identified several jobs that may increase the risk of knee osteoarthritis, including agriculture, construction, and service work. The study found that workers in these industries are more likely to develop knee OA due to increased physical stress and repetitive activities.
The study analyzed 600 COVID-19 cases in patients with rheumatic diseases and found no association between immunosuppressant intake and hospitalization. Treatment with high doses of prednisone was associated with a higher risk of hospitalization, while TNF-alpha inhibitors showed reduced hospitalization rates.
Researchers found similarities between COVID-19 deaths and severe rheumatic illnesses, suggesting that treatments boosting immune-regulating NK cells may help. Regular exercise is also recommended to enhance NK cell activity in non-infected individuals.
Researchers found a link between higher blood levels of NETs and a more severe disease course in patients with COVID-19. NETs, a product of neutrophil cell death, may be relevant to understanding the inflammatory storm triggered by SARS-CoV-2 infection.
A study published in Arthritis & Rheumatology found a significant increase in autoimmunity prevalence in the US population between 1988 and 2012. The prevalence of antinuclear antibodies (ANA) rose from 11.0% in 1988 to 15.9% in 2011-2012, affecting an estimated 41 million individuals.
A recent clinical trial found that nerve stimulation via TENS significantly improved movement-related pain and fatigue in women with fibromyalgia. The treatment, given along with standard treatments, offers a non-invasive self-management option for chronic pain management.
Researchers found that a 'pre-habilitation' program with trained peer coaches could empower and inform patients, leading to better outcomes. The study's results suggest that preparation and expectations for surgery are influenced by patients' prior experience and social support.
A nationwide survey of male patients with lupus found that nearly half reported feeling depressed, while over 80% indicated that lupus limits their daily activities. The study also revealed a high interest in psychosocial support and online platforms for men with lupus.
Annual spending on biologics in US public programs nearly doubled from 2012 to 2016 due to rising drug prices. Post-market price changes accounted for 56% of the five-year spending increase, with unit price hikes alone responsible for $1.7 billion of the growth.
A new study found that the live zoster vaccine is safe and effective in patients taking TNF inhibitors, with no cases of confirmed disseminated or local varicella infection. The researchers observed a very low risk of infection, with an upper bound confidence interval of approximately one percent.
Researchers found small, statistically significant benefits on pain and function with opioids, but no impact on quality of life or depression for patients with osteoarthritis. Strong opioids had consistently worse pain relief benefits and a greater risk of adverse events compared to weak opioids.
Researchers found that hydroxychloroquine significantly reduces the recurrence rate of congenital heart block in subsequent pregnancies, regardless of health status. The study evaluated 74 mothers who had a previous child with congenital heart block and were exposed to HCQ during pregnancy.
Children with JIA continue to have active arthritis despite available medications, highlighting a need for additional treatments. Researchers found that 52% of patients had ongoing active JIA despite treatment with two or more biologics.
A new study found that biologics improve clinical disease activity in both elderly-onset and young-onset rheumatoid arthritis patients similarly at 48 weeks. The researchers also discovered similar drug maintenance and adverse event discontinuation rates between the two age groups.
A study found associations between environmental factors and organ-specific lupus flares, including temperature, ozone concentration, wind, humidity, PM2.5 concentration, and barometric pressure. The research suggests atmospheric changes may impact lupus clinical trial design and outcomes.
A large cohort study found that children exposed to non-TNFi biologics or tofacitinib in utero experienced very few serious infections, with only two cases reported. The study provides the first data on infectious risk in offspring exposed to these drugs during pregnancy.
Patients with Down syndrome arthropathy experience a 11.5-month delay in diagnosis from symptom onset, and optimal therapy remains unclear due to medication intolerance and ineffectiveness. The study aims to raise awareness and improve screening for this condition.
Research found that SLE Medicaid patients have a double 30-day death rate after coronary revascularization compared to diabetes patients, highlighting the need for further investigation into cardiovascular disease and overall health status in SLE patients.
A study found that children with Down syndrome are at an increased risk of developing inflammatory and erosive arthritis. Researchers estimate that around 20 per 1,000 children with Down syndrome have this condition.
A new study found that limited access to lupus lab tests in developing nations, particularly ANA tests, affects the usefulness of SLE diagnosis. The lack of testing, especially immunologic and hematologic studies, leads to discrepancies in diagnostic criteria adherence. The 2019 ACR/EULAR classification criteria performed better than o...
Researchers found ADA2 levels above normal limits strongly indicative of concomitant MAS in children with systemic JIA. The study establishes ADA2 as a valuable diagnostic marker to distinguish MAS from other forms of systemic inflammation.
A new study found that tocilizumab is more effective than rituximab in reducing disease activity in patients with rheumatoid arthritis who have low B-cell infiltration in their synovial tissue. Tocilizumab achieved significant improvements in both low levels and falls in disease activity, particularly in the B-cell poor patient subgroup.
A study found that RA patients receiving immune checkpoint inhibitors for cancer experience flares, with a 50% rate. The researchers also noted that the rate of immune-related adverse events was comparable to those without autoimmune diseases.
A new study finds that gadolinium-enhanced MRI is a useful tool in diagnosing polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR), with 76% sensitivity and 85% specificity. The test can also predict recurrence, with patients who developed recurrences having less enhancement of their rotator cuff tendon and more synovial hypertrophy findings.