Articles tagged with Rheumatology
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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.
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.
Researchers found a significant increase in opioid-use disorder hospitalizations among patients with common rheumatic conditions like gout, osteoarthritis, and fibromyalgia. The study suggests that these patients are at risk of developing an opioid use disorder due to chronic musculoskeletal diseases.
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 study of 14,624 US adults found that four modifiable risk factors--body mass index, diet, alcohol consumption, and diuretic use--contribute to hyperuricemia. Promoting healthy diets and preventing obesity can help reduce the frequency of hyperuricemia and gout.
A study by University of Oxford researchers found that the Best Practice Tariff scheme saved up to 7,600 lives in England between 2010 and 2016. The scheme led to improved standards of care for hip fracture patients, including increased surgeries within 36 hours and reduced hospital readmissions.
A large pan-European survey found significant gaps in rheumatoid arthritis care, with 'diagnosis within six weeks' being the most concerning standard of care. The study highlights the need for improved care in essential aspects of rheumatoid arthritis care.
The Cyprus League Against Rheumatism has successfully implemented the first rheumatology nurse educational program in Cyprus, improving patient care and safety skills. A randomized controlled trial shows that nurse-led patient education can significantly improve essential safety skills in patients with inflammatory arthritis.
Researchers found no vaccine infections or disease flares in children given live-attenuated booster vaccination while on immune suppressing therapies. The study supports the use of flu vaccine and other vaccinations in patients with rheumatic diseases.
A study of 71 post-menopausal women found that those receiving zoledronate prior to denosumab had significantly lower risk of BMD loss. Younger age and higher bone turnover markers increased the risk of BMD loss after denosumab discontinuation.
A recent European survey found that gout is being diagnosed late, poorly controlled, and not regularly monitored. Eight out of ten patients are satisfied with their current treatment, indicating low expectations. The study highlights significant gaps in the management of gout, emphasizing the need for improved education and care.
A randomized controlled trial demonstrated that approximately two-thirds of patients achieving disease control on tocilizumab experience successful treatment outcomes following glucocorticoid tapering. Most patients in both groups achieved treatment success, with a small loss of disease control observed at the total study population le...
A new study reveals that occupational exposure to inorganic dust increases the risk of gout in women by 27%. The study also confirms known risk factors for gout, such as alcoholism and obesity. Gout is a disabling disease caused by uric acid deposits in joints, leading to inflammation and flares.
A three-year study found that patients with rheumatoid arthritis in remission had an 80% reduced risk of clinical and pre-clinical cardiovascular disease. Type II diabetes was significantly associated with both cardiovascular outcomes and pre-clinical cardiovascular disease.
A large clinical trial found that statins reduce the risk of cardiovascular events in moderate-risk rheumatoid arthritis patients by 40%, but the difference was not statistically significant. Statins also lower LDL cholesterol and C-reactive protein levels, making them a safe treatment option for these patients.
A student-led rheumatology interest group at George Washington University significantly increased student engagement with the field of rheumatology. The group's establishment led to a rise in publications by rheumatology students and enrollment in the rheumatology elective.
A study published in Arthritis & Rheumatology found that prescription opioids are commonly used long-term to treat pain in older patients with severe osteoarthritis. The study also revealed substantial statewide variation in rates of treatment with long-term opioid therapy for osteoarthritis, which was not fully explained by difference...
A Canadian population study tracked back pain patterns over 16 years, identifying four trajectories: persistent, developing, recovery, and occasional. The persistent and developing groups had more pain and disability, while the recovery group increased opioid use.
Jillian Rose, Hospital for Special Surgery's director of Community Engagement, Diversity and Research, received the ARHP Distinguished Educator Award for her innovative teaching, innovative initiatives, and dedication to promoting health equity in rheumatology care. Her work has been recognized nationally and internationally.
A phase 3 clinical trial found that ixekizumab significantly improves AS symptoms, disease activity and quality of life after 16 weeks. The treatment was well-tolerated despite more frequent adverse events compared to placebo.
A randomized controlled trial found that a nurse-led care approach with a treat-to-target strategy significantly lowered uric acid levels and reduced the risk of gout flares and tophi compared to usual care. The study suggests that educating patients and providing regular follow-up can improve treatment adherence and outcomes.
A study published in Arthritis & Rheumatology found that people with obstructive sleep apnea have a higher risk of developing gout. The risk was highest one to two years after diagnosis and was seen in patients with normal body mass index, regardless of weight status.
A study of 221 patients found that increased synovitis led to cartilage damage over time. Individuals with synovitis may be at greater risk for cartilage damage, and further research on treatment could help advance treatment paradigms.
Studies have found that pain, insomnia, and depression significantly increase healthcare use in osteoarthritis patients. Concomitant symptoms like insomnia or depression can lead to increased healthcare utilization.
The American College of Rheumatology has received two grants from the Office of Minority Health to increase minority participation in lupus clinical trials. The MIMICT and LuCTT programs will address challenges in recruiting minority populations affected by lupus, utilizing community health workers as referral sources.
A new study published in Arthritis & Rheumatology reveals that cardiac magnetic resonance imaging can detect early indicators of silent heart problems in patients with newly diagnosed lupus. The study found structural and functional changes in the hearts of patients with lupus, which were related to the disease stage.
Two studies provide insight into molecular changes prior to arthritis onset, identifying gene signatures associated with disease development. Researchers found that specific autoantibodies and B-cell receptor clones can predict imminent onset of rheumatoid arthritis in at-risk individuals.
The frequency of joint replacements in rheumatoid arthritis patients decreased by 51.9% over the past decade, suggesting improved treatment strategies. Biological therapy was found to have a limited impact on this reduction, with no significant association with total hip replacement or knee replacement procedures.
Pregnancies in women with rheumatoid arthritis are associated with an increased risk of low birth weight, prematurity, and small size at birth. However, there were no reported adverse outcomes for the mothers themselves, except for premature delivery.
A new Phase III clinical trial found that belimumab, a monoclonal antibody therapy, significantly reduces SLE disease activity and incidence of severe flares. The treatment's subcutaneous formulation offers an alternative to intravenous administration, making it more accessible to patients.
The American College of Rheumatology has developed a formal curriculum for nurse practitioners and physician assistants to meet growing demands in rheumatic disease. The novel curriculum outline is expected to positively affect rheumatology workforce challenges.
The American College of Rheumatology has been awarded a grant to focus on projects that curb disparities in rheumatic diseases. The program aims to address health inequities by creating initiatives that increase ethnically diverse participation in clinical trials and improve healthcare access for minority populations. By doing so, the ...
The American College of Rheumatology now supports the use of biosimilars in treating patients with rheumatic diseases, citing rigorously acquired data. Communication between providers and patients is crucial to alleviate anxiety around newly available agents.
The US rheumatology workforce is projected to face a shortage due to an aging population, retiring baby boomer rheumatologists, and changing practice trends. By 2030, the supply of rheumatologists is expected to fall short of demand, with some regions facing a particularly severe maldistribution.
A single-center study found that cancer immunotherapy is safe for patients with rheumatologic diseases, with only a minority experiencing adverse effects. The treatment was successfully administered to all six affected patients, paving the way for its use in select groups with pre-existing conditions.
A new review article examines efforts to address variability in treating rare pediatric rheumatic diseases. Consensus treatment plans are a potential alternative to randomized clinical trials, and the Childhood Arthritis and Rheumatology Research Alliance is pioneering their use.
Research indicates that being overweight or obese can lead to poorer RA treatment outcomes and higher mortality risk. Studies show that patients with healthy weights are more likely to achieve remission, while those who are overweight or obese face a 25-47% lower chance of sustained remission despite similar treatments.
Research suggests that US arthritis prevalence is much higher than current estimates, especially among younger adults. The study found that 91.2 million US adults are affected by arthritis, with a significant impact on healthcare costs and productivity.
The Academy supports innovative research in rheumatology education and promotes teaching excellence, resulting in the creation of unique curricula, iBooks, and mobile apps. Grant recipients have produced national meeting abstracts, given presentations, and written manuscripts, enhancing their careers and improving patient care.
Researchers at Hospital for Special Surgery found that black patients living in economically deprived areas experience worse physical function after hip replacement surgery compared to their white counterparts. The study suggests that community-based outreach and education may help improve outcomes.
Research found that lupus patients on Medicaid have lower HCQ therapy adherence in areas with high African-American populations, few hospitals, and Health Professional Shortage Areas. This association remained after controlling for individual-level characteristics like poverty and education.
Research suggests that obesity is prevalent among axSpa patients, associated with increased disease activity, physical function impairment, and poorer quality of life. The study found that nearly two-thirds of the patient cohort were overweight or obese, highlighting the need for weight management strategies in treatment plans.
Research reveals obesity is associated with reduced rates of remission and increased rates of disability in RA patients. Effective weight screening and management should be a central feature of RA treatment plans.
A study found that temporarily pausing methotrexate use for two weeks after flu vaccination improves the immune response in RA patients, with a higher rate of satisfactory responses and seroprotection rates. This approach has potential clinical implications, including improved vaccine efficacy without increasing disease activity.