Historically, ankylosing spondylitis was considered mainly a male disease. But it has become evident this predominance is not as great as previously believed. Here we discuss recent developments in the area, including potential differences between the sexes in symptom and disease burden, immunological and genetic background, diagnostic delay, treatment response and ongoing research questions. Medical…
Intravenous rituximab can now be used to treat pediatric patients with GPA and MPA as young as two years old…
NEW YORK (Reuters Health)—Iguratimod, a disease-modifying drug marketed in China and Japan, appears to be effective in treating rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and possibly other autoimmune diseases, while protecting against adverse bone effects, researchers from China say. Iguratimod is a methane sulfonanilide compound that influences several anti-inflammatory and immune-modulatory pathways and has an anabolic effect on…
With massage chairs, creative spaces and therapy dogs, the Wellness Pavilion will offer this year’s Annual Meeting attendees respite from the busy conference atmosphere…
For patients with gastrointestinal (GI) manifestations of scleroderma, the effect on quality of life & longevity can be dramatic. But advances are being made in the diagnosis & treatment of these patients…
Past research has identified being of Northern European descent as a risk factor, among others such as age, sex and HLA DRB1, for developing giant cell arteritis (GCA). But new research casts doubts on this idea, finding that rates of biopsy proven GCA may not differ by race…
Take the challenge. A—The commercial insurance coverage is primary in this situation. Medicare should be billed secondarily because it will not become primary until after the first 30 months of ESRD Medicare entitlement. After that, Medicare will be primary no matter the patient’s employment status. C—Unless the patient has a qualifying condition, such as ESRD,…
A 55-year-old male patient diagnosed with generalized osteoarthritis and diagnosed with end stage renal failure (ESRD) 20 months previously presents to the office to see the rheumatologist. The patient has a commercial insurance plan and Medicare. Which carrier is primary for this visit? Commercial insurance carrier Medicare You do not know because it is not…
At this year’s ACR/ARP Annual Meeting, Nov. 8–13, all of the pediatric rheumatology sessions will take place in the same room, making it easy to access all of the exciting content. Planners hope this convenient setup facilitates networking before and after symposia. “In pediatric rheumatology, we are very tight-knit community. This [event] is our opportunity…
Another exciting ACR/ARP Annual Meeting is planned for this November. Show your support for the Foundation’s mission and enjoy your time in vibrant Atlanta at one of the Foundation’s events. Donations made to the Foundation support the extensive awards program that funds research, training and education opportunities for current and potential rheumatologists and rheumatology professionals…