Rheumatology Month in Review: April 2025

In April, the rheumatology field saw significant advancements in both therapeutic approvals and emerging research. The FDA approved inebilizumab (Uplizna) as the first treatment for Immunoglobulin G4-related disease (IgG4-RD), offering a targeted option for this rare autoimmune condition . Additionally, upadacitinib (Rinvoq) received approval for treating giant cell arteritis, providing a new oral therapy for patients with this vascular inflammatory disease.

Beyond regulatory milestones, research highlighted novel insights into fibromyalgia and gout management. A study reported that psilocybin-assisted therapy was well-tolerated in patients with fibromyalgia, suggesting potential for alternative treatment approaches. Another investigation found higher rates of astigmatism, dry eye, and meibomian gland dysfunction among individuals with fibromyalgia, indicating a need for comprehensive ocular assessments in this population. In gout research, sedentary behavior was linked to increased risk of gout even without hyperuricemia, emphasizing the importance of physical activity. Furthermore, pegloticase therapy improved quality of life measures in kidney transplant recipients with uncontrolled gout, demonstrating its efficacy in complex patient populations. Lastly, an interim analysis confirmed the retention, efficacy, and safety of secukinumab in treating various rheumatologic conditions, reinforcing its role in long-term disease management.

FDA Approves Milestone Therapies for Inebilizumab, GCA

FDA Approves Inebilizumab (Uplizna) as First IgG4-RD Therapy for Adults
The FDA has approved inebilizumab-cdon (Uplizna) as the first treatment for adults with immunoglobulin G4-related disease (IgG4-RD), addressing a significant unmet need in this rare autoimmune condition. This approval offers a new therapeutic option for patients previously reliant on less targeted treatments.​

FDA Approves Upadacitinib, Expanding Treatment for Adults With Giant Cell Arteritis
Upadacitinib has received FDA approval for treating adults with giant cell arteritis, providing a new option for managing this inflammatory vascular disease. This expands the therapeutic arsenal for clinicians dealing with this challenging condition.​

New Research Into Fibromyalgia

Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy Well-Tolerated in Patients with Fibromyalgia
Preliminary findings indicate that psilocybin-assisted therapy is well-tolerated among individuals with fibromyalgia. These results support further investigation into its potential as a treatment modality for chronic pain conditions.​

People With Fibromyalgia Have Higher Rates of Astigmatism, Dry Eye, MGD
New research reveals that individuals with fibromyalgia experience higher rates of astigmatism, dry eye disease, and meibomian gland dysfunction. This highlights the need for comprehensive ocular assessments in this patient population.​

New Research Into Gout

Physical Activity and Sedentary Time Top Factors for Gout Risk in People With Hyperuricemia
A study utilizing machine learning techniques has identified physical activity and sedentary behavior as key factors influencing gout risk in individuals with hyperuricemia. These findings underscore the importance of lifestyle modifications in gout prevention strategies.​

Pegloticase Managed Gout, Improved QoL Measures in Kidney Transplant Recipients
Pegloticase has been shown to effectively manage gout and enhance quality of life in kidney transplant recipients. This suggests its potential utility in a patient group often excluded from clinical trials.​