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Obesity may influence rheumatoid arthritis blood tests

New research reveals that obesity influences blood tests for C-reactive protein and erythrocyte sedimentation rate, particularly in women with rheumatoid arthritis. The study found greater BMI was associated with increased CRP levels in these individuals.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateApr 10, 2017

Researchers add to evidence that common bacterial cause of gum disease may drive rheumatoid arthritis

Researchers found a common bacterial cause of gum disease may trigger rheumatoid arthritis by inducing hypercitrullination, leading to inflammation and tissue damage. A study published in Science Translational Medicine identified Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans as the primary pathogen responsible for this process.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateDec 14, 2016

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 ...

SourceAmerican College of Rheumatology·JournalArthritis & Rheumatology·DateNov 13, 2016

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.

SourceAmerican College of Rheumatology·JournalArthritis & Rheumatology·DateNov 12, 2016

Blood test for early osteoarthritis diagnosis unveiled

Researchers at the University of Warwick have developed a blood test to detect early-stage osteoarthritis (OA) and distinguish it from other self-resolving inflammatory joint diseases. The test identifies biomarkers in plasma proteins damaged by oxidation, nitration, and glycation, enabling early detection and treatment.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalArthritis Research & Therapy·DateOct 27, 2016

Study shows vagus nerve stimulation significantly reduces rheumatoid arthritis symptoms

A new study published in PNAS shows that vagus nerve stimulation significantly improves measures of disease activity in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. The treatment, which involves stimulating the vagus nerve with an implantable device, has been shown to inhibit cytokine production and attenuate disease severity in humans.

SourceNorthwell Health·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 4, 2016

Vitamin D may not be the great solution to health problems

A recent review by University of Alberta researchers found little evidence to support the benefits of vitamin D supplementation for various health conditions. Strongest effects were seen in reducing falls and fractures among the elderly. Moderate supplementation is unlikely to cause harm but will not lead to significant health benefits.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateJun 16, 2016

Obesity and smoking reduces likelihood of treatment success in early rheumatoid arthritis

A recent study found that patients with rheumatoid arthritis who are obese and smoke have a lower chance of achieving sustained remission after treatment. Encouraging patients to quit smoking and maintain a healthy weight could improve their symptoms. The findings highlight the importance of lifestyle factors in managing the disease.

It is critical to screen patients with rheumatoid arthritis for hearing impairment

Rheumatoid arthritis patients are at risk of developing hearing impairment due to various factors such as synovial destruction and environmental exposures. Regular audiometric tests and TEOAEs can detect early stages of the disease, and treatment options include oral steroids and intensifying Disease-Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalThe Open Rheumatology Journal·DateApr 22, 2016

Phase-3 drug trial for refractory rheumatoid arthritis succeeds, Stanford scientist says

A phase-3 trial led by Stanford University shows baricitinib substantially reduces symptoms and improves daily functioning in refractory rheumatoid arthritis patients. The study, involving over 500 adults, found that baricitinib improved physical function and reduced markers of inflammation, with effects remaining at 24 weeks.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 30, 2016

Blood test that could predict arthritis risk

Scientists have discovered a blood test that can predict rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in some individuals even 16 years before the condition takes effect. The test detects antibodies targeting citrullinated tenascin-C, which were found in high levels in joints of people with RA.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateDec 10, 2015