They looked exactly alike—tall, slightly scruffy gentlemen with denim overalls lightly stained with dirt and oil, with dusty trucker hats to match. The only difference was that one wore a red checkered shirt and the other wore a green one. Yet these similarities were deceptive. The one closest to me was the patient, the one…
In this episode, Dr. Kumar reflects on the impact of uncertainty on rheumatology and the important role of the rheumatologist in providing clarity for patients. He also highlights important articles in the May issue for readers to note.
Initial findings from a phase 2b clinical trial demonstrate the safety and efficacy of three different daily doses of SAP-001 to lower the serum urate levels of patients with refractory gout.
Based on research showing improved signs and symptoms of systemic sclerosis in patients taking cilnidipine vs. placebo, the FDA granted orphan drug designation for the agent.
Nipocalimab, an investigational monoclonal antibody that blocks FcRn and reduces levels of circulating immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies, has received the FDA’s breakthrough therapy designation for the treatment of Sjögren’s disease.
In visits to Congress members and staff, more than 120 ACR/ARP members and patients urged action to improve patient access to quality treatment. The meetings included discussions about the importance of research funding, ensuring adequate Medicare reimbursement, protecting Medicaid, and making PBMs more transparent and accountable. It’s not too late to amplify their message.
‘Measuring patient-reported outcomes (PROs) is an important component of high-quality, patient-centered care, but integration of PROs into clinic can be challenging,’ says Physician Editor Bharat Kumar, MD, MME, FACP, FAAAAI, RhMSUS. ‘Luckily, tools exist to help us realize this vital aspect of patient care.’ The ACR’s quality measures for care include gauging disease activity and…
On April 30, Rebecca Shepherd, MD, MBA, and Amanda Myers, MD, represented rheumatology in a live town hall on the Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Program, describing the benefits of apremilast and nintedanib for patients with rheumatic disease.
Autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (AHSCT) may improve the survival rate of patients with diffuse cutaneous systemic sclerosis (SSc), according to Georges et al. The single-arm clinical trial demonstrated the effectiveness of AHSCT and maintenance therapy. Researchers also identified potential risk factor of AHSCT in patients with low eGFR before transplantation.
Based on research in post-surgery patients, the FDA approved suzetrigine, a non-opioid analgesic, for the treatment moderate to severe, acute pain in adults.