A new study published in Arthritis Research & Therapy shows lenalidomide to be a safe and effective alternative treatment for refractory cutaneous lupus erythematosus, with significant clinical improvement in most patients. The treatment's efficacy is comparable to thalidomide but with lower toxicity.
Researchers identified molecular pathways involved in both systemic and arthritic components of SJIA, revealing differences in affected organs. The study found that glucocorticoid signalling was more heavily involved in inflammation associated with SJIA, highlighting the need for tailored treatment plans.
Researchers found vitamin D supplementation improved SLE symptoms by increasing beneficial CD4+ cells, Treg cells, and decreasing effector Th1 and Th17 cells. Vitamin D also reduced memory B cell and anti-DNA antibodies in patients.
The newly approved guidelines educate patients on effective methods to prevent gout attacks, including dietary recommendations and lifestyle choices. The guidelines also provide recommended therapies for long-term management of gout, such as xanthine oxidase inhibitors and non-drug treatments.
A new study found that cherry consumption lowered gout attack risk by 35% compared to non-consumers, while combined with allopurinol it decreased risk by 75%. The findings suggest cherries may be a preventive option for patients with gout.
Researchers found that antibiotic treatment reduced the number of live spirochetes in infected mice but left behind fluorescent bacterial debris. This debris triggered an inflammatory immune response and may contribute to arthritis-like symptoms in some patients.
Research suggests that functional disability in juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) patients affects their ability to achieve educational success and secure employment. Patients with JIA often experience joint damage, disability, and lowered quality of life, leading to higher rates of unemployment compared to healthy counterparts.
Research shows that adult JIA patients with higher functional disability have lower educational achievement and job stability, while those with oligoarticular JIA perform better. Education is key to success for these individuals, suggesting that career guidance and disease management are crucial for employment outcomes.
A retrospective analysis found that methotrexate injection was not more effective than oral therapy in treating juvenile idiopathic arthritis. The study suggests that the oral approach may be a more suitable option for pediatric patients, sparing them from the pain of injections.
The National Psoriasis Foundation has awarded a record $2.06 million in grants to 26 scientists studying psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, aiming to advance knowledge and lead to new treatments. The foundation's mission is to find a cure for these autoimmune diseases through research, advocacy, and education.
Researchers studied a giant pliosaur specimen from the Upper Jurassic and discovered signs of an arthritis-like disease that eroded its left jaw joint. The animal, believed to be an old female, lived with a crooked jaw for many years, still able to hunt despite its condition.
African Americans with systemic sclerosis have higher frequencies of certain autoantibodies, associated with increased frequency and severity of pulmonary fibrosis and decreased survival. The study highlights the need for more aggressive treatment for African-American patients with severe lung disease.
Researchers at Queen Mary University of London have identified primary cilia as a crucial regulator of inflammation. The discovery could lead to novel therapies for millions suffering from arthritis and other inflammatory conditions.
A study found that children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis have a higher risk of hospitalized bacterial infections than children without the condition. High-dose steroids significantly increased this risk, while methotrexate and tumor necrosis factor inhibitors did not.
Researchers found Bartonella infection in 62% of patients with conditions like arthritis, chronic fatigue, and Lyme disease. The study suggests a possible link between Bartonella bacterium and rheumatoid illnesses in humans.
Researchers have identified a rare gene mutation in the CARD14 gene that is directly linked to plaque psoriasis, accounting for 80% of all cases. The discovery may lead to more effective treatments and sheds light on the genetic pathway underlying the condition.
Researchers at the University of Sheffield have identified three new ways to tackle bone diseases like osteoporosis. By understanding how individual cells respond to mechanical loading and stress, they've discovered that controlling ATP release during exercise could help build stronger bones.
Research finds that children with JIA have a significantly increased cancer risk, with rates 3.9 times higher for methotrexate-only patients and 4.4 times higher overall compared to peers without the disease. The study suggests that treatment, including TNF inhibitors, may not be directly linked to this increased risk.
A large study found that overweight and obese adults are more likely to have disc degeneration than those with a normal body mass index. Disc degeneration was associated with an increased number of levels of degenerated disks and greater severity of disc degeneration, including narrowing of the disc space.
A phase II clinical trial demonstrated that rilonacept significantly reduced acute gout flares by 81% compared to a placebo. The treatment was found to be well-tolerated with no serious infections or adverse events reported.
A study published in the American Association for Cancer Research found that women who underwent bilateral oophorectomy before age 45 had lower bone mineral density and a higher prevalence of arthritis. The research suggests that clinicians should be aware of this association to provide early intervention if needed.
A randomized controlled trial found that telephone-delivered cognitive behavioral therapy and an exercise program were associated with short-term positive outcomes for patients with chronic widespread pain. The combined intervention showed improvements in physical component score and reduced passive coping strategies.
A longitudinal study published in Arthritis & Rheumatism found a strong association between poor sleep habits and the risk of developing fibromyalgia in women. The study, which followed over 12,000 women for ten years, found that women with severe sleep problems were at increased risk of developing fibromyalgia.
A study found that patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis who responded well to etanercept treatment had lower disability scores, younger age at onset, and fewer disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs used before treatment. These factors are associated with a better long-term outcome.
A new study finds that gout prevalence has risen significantly in the US adult population, affecting 8.3 million people, while hyperuricemia affects 43.3 million adults. The study suggests that managing modifiable risk factors like obesity and hypertension could help prevent further escalation of gout and hyperuricemia.
A study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that blue collar workers are more likely to suffer from arthritis and reduce their quality of life due to health conditions. The research highlights the need for enhanced federal programs, including disability and health insurance, to support these workers.
Researchers discovered seven new genes linked to Ankylosing Spondylitis, bringing the total to thirteen known predisposing genes. The study also revealed an interaction between genetic mutations HLA-B27 and ERAP1, providing insight into the disease's cause.
Research shows that African Americans with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) have a higher antibody response to the influenza vaccine compared to European American patients. Treatment with prednisone and history of hemolytic anemia are linked to low antibody responses in SLE patients.
Researchers found PCR testing for Borrelia burgdorferi DNA in joint fluid confirms diagnosis but is not a reliable indicator of active joint infection. Patients with persistent arthritis require more intensive antibiotic and DMARD therapy.
A UBC study found that a strong relationship with a primary healthcare provider is key to managing chronic conditions. Patients who felt connected to their provider reported better health outcomes and self-management skills.
A new study reveals that adults with arthritis experience poorer health-related quality of life compared to those without the condition. The analysis found significant associations between low HRQOL, factors such as income, employment, access to care, diabetes, and physical inactivity.
The new guidelines provide evidence-based guidance for the initiation and safety monitoring of multiple medications used in treating JIA, including biologic therapies. The recommendations aim to improve short- and medium-term outcomes for children with JIA.
Research published in Arthritis Care & Research found that traffic accidents increase the likelihood of developing chronic widespread pain by 84%. Individuals with poorer health or psychological issues may be more prone to developing this type of pain following a traumatic event.
Patient-centered medical homes in Ontario's Family Health Team Model show high patient satisfaction and improved income for primary care physicians. Additionally, a novel approach to detecting white-coat hypertension using automated serial blood pressure measurements is found to be valid and useful.
Modified-release sildenafil reduced the frequency of Raynaud's phenomenon in patients with limited cutaneous systemic sclerosis by 44%, according to a recent clinical trial. The treatment was well-tolerated, with only minor or moderate side effects reported.
Researchers believe ADAM-12 gene could be important in fighting cancer, arthritis and cardiac hypertrophy. The gene's regulation pathway could lead to new treatment plans.
Researchers found that IFN-a priming promotes lipid uptake and foam cell formation in lupus patients, increasing the risk of premature plaque build-up. This activation of the IFN signaling pathway may be linked to the increased cardiovascular risk in SLE patients.
A national survey found that 76% of people would take a predictive test to learn about their future health risks, with willingness to pay varying by disease type and accuracy. Respondents were more likely to pay for tests related to breast and prostate cancer, and were willing to alter lifestyle choices after receiving positive results.
Researchers have identified seven genetic variations associated with both ankylosing spondylitis and Crohn's disease, highlighting a potential new understanding of how AS develops. The study suggests that these immune cells may play a key role in the development of AS.
Researchers found that etanercept treatment significantly increased mean height, weight, and body mass index (BMI) percentiles in patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). Growth improvements were observed in both etanercept alone and combined with methotrexate treatments.
A study published in Arthritis Care & Research found that narcotics and diagnostic tests are overused in treating chronic neck pain, with only 53% of subjects prescribed therapeutic exercise. The researchers suggest that evidence supports the effectiveness of rehabilitation conditioning and acupuncture as treatments for chronic neck pain.
Research from Utrecht University reveals that anger and sadness amplify pain equally in both women with and without fibromyalgia. The study also found that emotional sensitization of pain may be especially detrimental in people who already have high pain levels.
Researchers have identified Gαq as a key protein that determines the fate of damaging cells, leading to autoimmune disorders like arthritis. The discovery offers new hope for treatments and personalized therapy for patients.
A recent study found significant racial disparities in the age of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients at the time of hospital admission for cardiovascular disease (CVD) events and CVD-related death. Black women were youngest to both be admitted with CVD and to have an in-hospital death due to CVD.
A study by FDA researchers found a higher incidence of malignancy in children using TNF blockers like infliximab and etanercept. The reporting rate for U.S. cases of malignancy in children was 4-18 times the estimated background rate for the general pediatric population.
A recent study found a link between elevated intrinsic brain connectivity and spontaneous pain intensity in fibromyalgia patients. The research shows an interaction of multiple brain networks, providing insights into how pain arises in these individuals.
A new study finds that patients with arthritic back pain can experience significant pain relief after radiofrequency denervation without diagnostic nerve blocks. The procedure is safer and more cost-effective, allowing patients to return to work sooner.
A Spanish Centre for Pharmacoepidemiological Research study found that slow-release NSAIDs increase the risk of gastrointestinal complications, including GI bleeding and perforation. Long half-life or slow-release formulations were associated with a greater risk.
Research found an association between leisure time physical exercise and a future risk of developing fibromyalgia. Women who exercised regularly had a lower risk of developing the condition compared to inactive women. High BMI is also identified as an independent risk factor for future development of FM.
Researchers found a combination of antibiotics to be an effective treatment for Chlamydia-induced reactive arthritis, with significant improvements seen in patients receiving a 6-month course of combination antibiotics. The results suggest potential for eradication of the persistent infection and improvement in clinical sequelae.
A 52-year follow-up study found that higher serum uric acid levels increase gout risk in women, with the risk being 46 times higher among those above 8mg/dl. Other factors such as age, obesity, and hypertension also contribute to the risk of developing gout.
A new study published in Arthritis Research & Therapy found that lifestyle physical activity can help people with fibromyalgia improve their symptoms. Participants who engaged in short bursts of physical activity took 54% more steps per day, experienced reduced perceived functional deficits, and reported less pain compared to those in ...
Researchers found that SLE patients with high disease activity have higher levels of anti-Apo A-I, anti-HDL, and anti-CRP antibodies, contributing to the development of atherosclerosis. This association may place SLE patients at risk for cardiovascular disease.
A study published in Arthritis Care & Research found that obesity and physical inactivity contribute to a higher prevalence of arthritis and activity limitations in the US compared to Canada. Women are particularly vulnerable, with a higher incidence of arthritis and activity limitations in both countries.
Researchers at UT Health Science Center at Houston identify two new genes implicated in ankylosing spondylitis and pinpoint areas regulating gene activity associated with the condition. The study brings the scientific community closer to understanding AS, a chronic form of arthritis affecting millions worldwide.
A recent study found that increasing patient responsibility for medical decisions decreases their willingness to accept risky treatments. Patients who were presented with choices reported higher worry about risks and lower uptake of treatment.
A study found that rural Medicare beneficiaries were 27% more likely to undergo total knee or hip replacement surgeries compared to urban recipients. Women and minorities showed significant disparities in both rural and urban areas. The study used the 2005 Medicare data and included over 6 million rural and nearly 38 million urban part...
The National Institutes of Health has awarded grants to further develop and test the Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS), a tool that assesses pain, fatigue, and other aspects of quality of life in a standardized manner. The second phase of PROMIS aims to strengthen assessment of patient-reported outcomes ...
Research found a higher incidence of chronic rhinosinusitis among patients with other chronic diseases, particularly asthma. The study suggests that some chronic diseases may share common mechanisms of how they arise or progress, highlighting the need for further investigation into the relationship between CRS and other conditions.
Researchers found that PCPs can effectively screen for serious diseases like vertebral fractures and cancer using red flag clinical features. The study identified a diagnostic rule containing four variables, which can increase the probability of vertebral fracture when multiple flags are present.