Research published within the past year has increased and refined support for the concept that this autoimmunity may arise initially in mucosal surfaces, predominantly the lung, the oral cavity, and the digestive system, prompted by the presence of microbes.
A closer look at racial disparities in treatments for rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis show nuanced explanations for why African Americans are less willing to undergo drug therapy and surgery. More careful and clearer communication may go a long way toward closing the gap.
Refining the ample evidence that rheumatologists and their rheumatoid arthritis patients disagree on the severity of symptoms, new studies reported at ACR2012 point toward better definitions of disease status, and a way to identify patients for whom treatment targets may need to be reconsidered.
Results presented at the American College of Rheumatology/Association of Rheumatology Professionals 2012 annual meeting show that adalimumab and methotrexate are more effective than DMARDs and prednisone in achieving remission in patients with early rheumatoid arthritis or undifferentiated arthritis patients.
Among more than 5,000 rheumatoid arthritis patients followed for a quarter century, methotrexate use was associated with at least a 65% reduction in mortality risk
The long-term risk of rheumatoid arthritis is up to 26-fold greater and there is up to a 32% 10-year absolute risk of RA in persons in the general population who have elevated rheumatoid factor levels.
The burden of cognitive impairment in persons with rheumatoid arthritis is significant, according to recent study findings.
The risks are proven. The benefits are questionable. The alternatives are numerous. So is it ever a good idea to prescribe opioids for patients suffering with chronic pain from rheumatoid arthritis?
A 54-year-old Asian woman presented with ongoing renal insufficiency and anemia that were thought to be the result of analgesic nephropathy caused by NSAIDs.
The current “treat to target” approach to rheumatoid arthritis incorporates an intensive, individualized management algorithm that includes an expanded role for the rheumatology nurse.
Observing rheumatoid arthritis patients in a systematic way allows rigorous analysis of pain and function. Learn how in this review.
Besides new guidelines on assessing rheumatoid arthritis, the American College of Rheumatology has updated treatment guidance. A panel member reviews the highlights.
Assessing function in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a challenging but important part of the rheumatology office visit.
Doctors may be halting use of anti-tumor necrosis factor (anti-TNF) medications too early in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients who are set to undergo surgery, researchers at the Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) in New York City have found.
The US Food and Drug Administration has accepted for review a New Drug Application for tofacitinib from Pfizer Inc.
Horizon Pharma announced last Tuesday that the FDA had accepted its new drug application for Lodotra, a delayed-release formulation of low-dose prednisone, for treatment of rheumatoid arthritis in adults.
Women under 50 with rheumatoid arthritis have an increased risk of breaking bones compared with women who do not have the condition, a new study finds.
Musculoskeletal pain is common. In one analysis, 33% of adults reported musculoskeletal pain from overuse as a chief complaint. Morbidity resulting from musculoskeletal pain contributes to 29% of lost workdays because of illness and is second only to cardiovascular disease in terms of economic burden
Antares Pharma, Inc. has announced positive results of an auto-injector that delivers a rapid subcutaneous injection of methotrexate.
The risk of latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) is greater in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Regular screening for LTBI is recommended.
Researchers hope a device that stimulates the vagus nerve will reduce pain and swelling as well as joint damage in rheumatoid arthritis patients.
Scaling Mt. Everest is a tremendous achievement even for the fittest of climbers. For those suffering from rheumatoid arthritis, it was unheard of-until now.
Reactivation of latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) has emerged as a problem in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Anti–tumor necrosis factor α therapy is strongly associated with reactivation of tuberculosis (TB) in patients with RA.
Patient Guide for patients with rheumatoid arthritis
FDA approved tablet provides a new treatment option for RA sufferers who may be at risk for upper gastrointestinal ulcers stemming from chronic NSAID use.
