Febuxostat prevents gout flares in recent clinical trial
Febuxostat reduced gout flares and synovitis in a 2-year study of adults with early gout. Urate-lowering therapy may benefit people after one or two prior gout flares.
Rheumatology
Articles tagged with Rheumatology
PTSD linked with increased lupus risk
A study of 54,763 women found a nearly three-fold elevated risk of lupus among those with probable PTSD and more than two-fold higher risk among those who experienced traumatic events. The findings contribute to growing evidence that psychosocial trauma affects autoimmune disease.
Reports reveal racial and ethnic disparities in lupus rates
New research reveals striking racial and ethnic disparities in lupus incidence and prevalence, with higher rates found in Black, Hispanic, and Asian populations. The findings emphasize the need for vigilant diagnosis and prompt care for these groups, particularly in cases of arthritis, rashes, and kidney disease symptoms.
Studies reveal how shingles vaccine should be used in arthritis patients
Research shows that administering shingles vaccine several weeks prior to starting tofacitinib for rheumatoid arthritis results in robust immune responses. This is particularly beneficial for patients with rheumatoid arthritis who are at a higher risk of developing shingles.
Certain occupations linked to an increased risk of rheumatoid arthritis
A new study published in Arthritis Care & Research found that male workers in the manufacturing sector have a higher risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis than those in other sectors. Women working in certain occupations, such as assistant nurses and attendants, also showed a slightly increased risk of rheumatoid arthritis.
New guideline aims to reduce infections in total hip & knee replacement patients
A new guideline aims to reduce joint infection risks from total hip and knee replacements by managing anti-rheumatic medications during perioperative process. The guideline provides recommendations for withholding certain medications, such as biologics and immunosuppressants, to minimize the risk of infection.
Education for people with RMDS and employers can improve ability to work
An educational programme implemented by the Galician Rheumatology League improved employees' self-confidence in their work capacity and awareness of solvable limitations. The programme also helped employers understand specific needs of people with RMDs, making necessary adaptations to keep them at work.
SourceEuropean Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR)·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateJun 16, 2017
Biosimilar concerns of rheumatology patients being addressed by national program
A national program in Denmark aims to address concerns of rheumatology patients switching to biosimilars for their arthritis treatment. The program includes independent patient information, closer monitoring of prescriptions, and a focus on patient safety.
SourceEuropean Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR)·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateJun 16, 2017
New medication guidelines for rheumatic disease patients having joint replacement
The American College of Rheumatology and the American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons developed guidelines to manage anti-rheumatic medication in patients with joint replacement. The recommendations prioritize preventing infection over potential disease flares, and aim to lower the risk of complications.
Excess risk of cardiovascular events in RA patients decreased since start of 21st century
A meta-analysis found that the excess risk of cardiovascular events in RA patients has decreased since the year 2000. The reduced risk appears to be related to better management of cardiovascular risk and control of chronic systemic inflammation.
SourceEuropean Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR)·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateJun 16, 2017
Trial demonstrates benefits of learning sessions for managing rheumatoid arthritis
A randomized study found that group-based quality improvement sessions improved TTT scores from 11% to 57% in intervention patients, while control patients saw a decline to 25%. The learning collaborative positively impacted implementation of the recommended care approach.
Studies examine rheumatoid arthritis patients' prognosis
New studies examine rheumatoid arthritis patients' mortality, disease activity, and physical function over 20 years. Early treatment has been shown to have a significant impact on long-term outcomes, with patients experiencing relatively good results.
Annals publishes annual updates in internal medicine
The journal highlights several notable research findings, including the benefits of quitting smoking abruptly, low-dose aspirin for cardiovascular prevention, and statins in rheumatoid arthritis. These updates aim to promote excellence in medicine and improve patient outcomes.
Trials examine immune drug's potential to treat different forms of vasculitis
Researchers investigated the use of abatacept, an immune cell modulator, in treating two rare forms of vasculitis: giant cell arteritis (GCA) and Takayasu's arteritis. The studies found promising results for GCA patients, with improved relapse-free survival rates and longer duration of remission compared to placebo.
Older adults with arthritis need just 45 minutes of activity per week
A study found that performing even a third of the recommended activity is beneficial for older adults with arthritis. Participants who achieved a minimum of 45 minutes of moderate activity, such as brisk walking, per week were 80% more likely to improve or sustain high function over two years.
Survey finds patients with RA their doctors not always on the same page
A global survey found that patients with RA are often not involved in decision-making, despite doctors acknowledging the importance of patient engagement. The study highlights gaps in communication between healthcare providers and their patients, with few patients having shared treatment goals or feeling comfortable voicing concerns.
13-country precision trial looks at cardiovascular effects of anti-inflammatory drug use
A 10-year precision trial involving 24,081 patients in 13 countries investigated the cardiovascular safety of widely used nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and COX-2-specific inhibitors. The trial found that celecoxib shares similar cardiovascular toxicity with rofecoxib, leading to increased nuance in analgesic recommendations for ...
First-line therapy with rituximab may lower mortality risk in RA patients with lung conditions
Researchers found that patients treated with rituximab as their first biologic had a lower mortality risk compared to those treated with TNFi. The study included 353 patients with RA-ILD and analyzed five-year mortality rates, with RTX-treated patients showing numerically lower but not statistically significant risks.
Three gene sets could predict response to rheumatoid arthritis therapies
Researchers identified three gene expression signatures that can help rheumatologists predict which patients are more likely to respond to certain therapies. The findings could lead to higher response rates and reduced likelihood of ineffective treatment, ultimately improving patient care.
Staying on dmards through surgery does not increase post-op infection risk
A study of 9,362 surgeries on 5,544 RA patients found that continuing DMARDs prior to surgery does not increase post-operative infection risk. Researchers recommend considering medication continuation during the perioperative period to maintain better control over RA and reduce complications.
Cardiovascular event risk of RA patients comparable to type-2 diabetes over 15-year period
Researchers found that people with RA have double the risk of CV events as those in the general population, rates similar to those with type-2 diabetes. Chronic inflammation in RA contributes independently to cardiovascular risks for these patients.
Most people with knee OA meet physical function level to walk recommended 6,000 steps a day
New research from the American College of Rheumatology finds that most people with knee osteoarthritis (OA) meet the minimum physical function level necessary to walk at least 6,000 steps a day. This suggests that many individuals with OA can adopt physically active lifestyles and achieve significant health benefits.
TNF inhibitors don't appear to increase malignancy risk in juvenile arthritis patients
Research finds that tumor necrosis factor inhibitors used to treat juvenile idiopathic arthritis do not increase the risk of malignancy. The study, which analyzed data from over 27,000 children with JIA, concluded that TNFi are not associated with a significantly increased risk of incident malignancy.
Wnt inhibitor may ease pain, and improve function and cartilage loss in knee OA
A new Wnt inhibitor drug has shown significant improvements in knee OA pain, joint function, and even slowed or reversed cartilage loss. The study found that the drug improved outcomes for 76% of patients in the high-dose group compared to 36% on placebo.
Gut bacteria may be a trigger for antiphospholipid syndrome
Research findings suggest that gut microbiomes of patients with antiphospholipid syndrome show higher levels of phospholipid-producing bacteria, pointing to microbes as a trigger for the disease. The study identified Slackia bacteria as a promising candidate, which can produce phospholipids including cardiolipin.
Combination of NSAIDs and TNF-inhibitors shows benefit for ankylosing spondylitis
Researchers found a significant interaction between TNF-inhibitors and NSAIDs, with patients experiencing a 70% reduction in radiographic progression when used together. The study suggests that combining these therapies may be especially helpful for patients at higher risk of disease progression.
Women & long-term axial spondyloarthropathy patients at higher risk for manifestations
A study of 564 patients found that women with long-term axial spondyloarthropathy are at higher risk for extra-articular manifestations, including uveitis, which is significantly more prevalent in women (46.7%) and those in late disease stages. IBD prevalence was also higher in women (16.5%), particularly those with elevated CRP levels.
New funding strategies & graduate education needed to fill rheumatology workforce gaps
The U.S. adult rheumatology workforce is projected to decline by 31% by 2030 due to an aging workforce and insufficient graduate medical education funding. To address this gap, researchers suggest creating financial incentives for medical students and residents to pursue rheumatology training.
Mayo Clinic research sheds light on why some rheumatoid arthritis patients respond poorly to biologics
A Mayo Clinic study found that type 1 interferon beta levels are associated with poor response to tumor necrosis factor inhibitors in rheumatoid arthritis patients. This discovery may lead to more personalized treatment approaches based on individual patient biology.
Rheumatology practices differ widely on meeting quality measures for patient care
Quality of care varies significantly among rheumatology practices, with the largest gaps seen in osteoporosis and gout care, and some practices consistently performing well across measures. The study highlights the need for improvement in preventive care and counseling, and RISE provides a tool for guiding quality-improvement efforts.
Allopurinol does not increase chronic kidney disease risk in gout patients
Research found no association between allopurinol use and increased risk of chronic kidney disease (CKD) Stage 3 or higher in gout patients with normal kidney function. Allopurinol may be beneficial for preventing renal decline, suggesting its safe use in managing gout symptoms.
Men and women show sex-specific improvements after hip replacement
New research findings suggest that men and women have different post-surgical outcomes after total hip arthroplasty. Women who had improved functional recovery showed more abductor strength improvement and better gait function during walking. Tailoring rehabilitation to each sex may help patients achieve better outcomes.
Too many patients with inflammatory joint diseases undermanaged for cardiovascular risk
Research shows that many patients with RA, spondyloarthritis, and other inflammatory joint diseases are not receiving adequate CVD-preventive medications, despite being at high risk. Only half of those who start treatment achieve their goals, highlighting a significant need for improvement in CVD prevention.
More coordinated care between physicians may improve lipid screenings in RA patients
Research suggests that RA patients who receive combined care from primary-care physicians and rheumatologists are more likely to be screened for hyperlipidemia. This study found that 47% of patients seeing both a PCP and rheumatologist were screened, compared to 42% of those seeing only a PCP.
Urate-lowering therapy helps chronic kidney disease patients improve organ function
A retrospective cohort study found that chronic kidney disease patients who achieve target urate levels show improvement in kidney function. The study suggests that urate-lowering therapy may help stabilize or improve kidney function in patients with significantly elevated serum uric acid and moderate kidney failure.
Monocyte gene expression signatures predict how ra patients respond to anti-TNF therapy
Researchers found distinct monocyte gene expression signatures in RA patients with different responses to anti-TNF therapy, potentially leading to personalized treatment approaches.
Race, ethnicity and education levels linked to delays accessing lupus specialty care
New research finds that African-Americans, Asians, and those with a high school education or less experience significant delays in receiving lupus diagnosis and treatment. The study highlights the need for targeted solutions to address these disparities in access to specialty care.
Statins may lower mortality risk in ankylosing spondylitis and psoriatic arthritis patients
Researchers found that statin initiation was associated with a 33% reduction in all-cause mortality among AS and PsA patients. The study suggests that statins' dual benefits of lowering lipids and reducing inflammation may be the reason for this significant benefit.
US female physicians reimbursed significantly less than male colleagues
A recent study published in Postgraduate Medical Journal found that female physicians in the US were reimbursed around $18,677.23 less than their male counterparts in 2012, with the largest gaps found in nephrology, rheumatology, and pulmonary medicine.
DASH diet may help prevent gout flares
A new study published in Arthritis & Rheumatology suggests that the DASH diet can effectively lower blood levels of uric acid, a known trigger of gout. The DASH diet, which emphasizes fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, was found to lower uric acid by an average of 0.35 mg/dL.
ACR receives $335,000 grant from Office of Minority Health to improve lupus health outcomes
The American College of Rheumatology has received a $335,000 grant from the Office of Minority Health to develop an expert-informed program model that improves health outcomes for people with lupus in rural and underserved areas. The program aims to increase awareness and access to care for patients living with lupus.
New cancer immunotherapy drugs linked to arthritis in some patients
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine report a link between cancer immunotherapy drugs and rheumatologic diseases, including inflammatory arthritis. The study highlights the need for awareness among patients and clinicians about potential side effects of these drugs.
Facebook key to identifying thousands with inflammatory back pain
A new study found that Facebook advertising is effective in identifying adults with Inflammatory Back Pain (IBP), a condition often delayed in diagnosis due to lack of awareness. The study recruited over three quarters of patients through Facebook, resulting in earlier referrals to specialist treatment and improved treatment outcomes.
UK rheumatologists go beyond NICE guidance on cost when treating RA patients
A study presented at EULAR 2016 found that UK rheumatologists often deviate from NICE guidance on cost when treating RA patients, citing clinical autonomy and patient involvement as key factors. The study suggests that further research is needed to explore the impact of these deviations on patient outcomes and cost-effectiveness.
Motivational text messages and counselling boost health of patients with RA
A study presented at EULAR 2016 found that a combination of text messages and individual counselling sessions motivated patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis to be more active, resulting in reduced daily sitting time and improved cholesterol levels. This behavioural intervention was effective in improving patient-reported clinical outcomes.
Depression linked to disease activity and disability in adolescents with arthritis
A recent study confirms a strong association between depression symptom severity and the level of disease activity and disability in adolescent patients with juvenile inflammatory arthritis. The findings underscore the need for psychological health assessment and support to be fully integrated into their routine care.
Treatments that reduce knee buckling may help prevent falls in older adults
A study published in Arthritis Care & Research found that knee buckling is a significant cause of falls and injuries in older adults with knee osteoarthritis. Targeted exercises and joint replacement surgery may help prevent knee instability and reduce the risk of falls.
Research is lacking on marijuana's effects in patients with rheumatic diseases
A new review found scant scientific evidence supporting cannabinoid use in rheumatic diseases, citing only four small studies with limited information. Rheumatologists cannot recommend cannabinoids as a therapeutic option due to high side effects and limited long-term efficacy data.
Deaths from heart disease declining among rheumatoid arthritis patients
Deaths from cardiovascular disease among people with rheumatoid arthritis are declining, according to a new study. Researchers found that efforts to prevent and diagnose heart problems may be paying off for patients with the chronic condition.
Biosimilars -- clinical perspectives in rheumatology
Biosimilars are complex proteins that provide therapeutically equivalent alternatives to expensive biologics, reducing treatment costs in rheumatology and other fields. The introduction of biosimilars into clinical practice requires careful management to ensure patient safety and efficacy.
New classification system developed for gout
A new classification system for gout has been developed to standardize its diagnosis and treatment. The system uses evidence-based criteria and has been validated by comparing it to existing published criteria, outperforming them in performance.
Poor sleep, negative attitude amplify pain in knee osteoarthritis
A new study found that patients with knee osteoarthritis who have poor sleep habits display greater central sensitization, an amplification of clinical pain. Catastrophizing thoughts about pain also contribute to increased central sensitization and greater clinical pain in OA patients.
Patients grapple with high cost of arthritis medications
A recent study found that patients with rheumatoid arthritis face high initial copayments and then fall into a coverage gap, where they pay 45% of drug costs. This financial burden can be substantial, with some patients paying over $2,700 annually before receiving relief from catastrophic coverage.
Awkward positions, distractions and fatigue may trigger low back pain
A case-crossover study found that engaging in manual tasks with awkward positions, being distracted during activities, or feeling fatigued significantly increases the risk of acute low back pain. The study, published in Arthritis Care & Research, identified 12 modifiable triggers for an episode of low back pain.
Females with primary Sjogren's syndrome more likely to experience sexual dysfunction
Women with primary Sjögren's syndrome experience impaired sexual functioning and higher levels of distress compared to healthy controls. Vaginal dryness, pain, fatigue, and depressive symptoms significantly contribute to their symptoms. Healthcare providers should acknowledge and discuss these issues to help patients cope.
Lower mortality rates among Asian and Hispanic lupus patients
A new study reveals that Asian and Hispanic patients with systemic lupus erythematosus have lower mortality rates compared to Black, White, or Native American patients. The risk for death among White patients is much lower than in Black and Native American SLE patients.
Nighttime gout attack risk more than 2 times higher than in the daytime
Research finds that nocturnal gout attacks are 2.4 times higher at night and 1.3 times higher in the evening compared to daytime hours. Prophylactic measures may be more effective in preventing flares, especially at night.
Study shows rheumatoid arthritis support and education program has strong positive impact
A study at Hospital for Special Surgery found that a support group addressing the psychological and educational needs of people recently diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis has a strong positive impact on their lives. The program improved patients' ability to manage their disease, connect with others, and cope with emotional challenges.
Moms with rheumatoid arthritis more likely to give birth prematurely
Research found that babies born to mothers with rheumatoid arthritis have lower fetal growth and are more likely to be born prematurely. Studies show a 1.5 times higher risk of preterm birth in children exposed to maternal or preclinical RA compared to those without exposure.
New research adds spice to curcumin's health-promoting benefits
A newly created turmeric-based formulation releases curcumin's anti-inflammatory goodness throughout the body, halting acute inflammatory reactions and recruitment of immune cells. The study suggests that this delivery system could be used to prevent certain diseases and combat chronic inflammation.