Immunology for the Rheumatologist: The Devil Is in the Details
Release Date: 10/29/2024
LUMEN
ACR Journals On Air
In this episode of ACR Journals on Air, host Dr. Vicki Shanmugam speaks with Dr. Alain Sanchez-Rodriguez about a new study from the Lupus Midwest Network (), published in Arthritis Care & Research. They explore how patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) experience delays and disparities in care, the types of physicians involved in diagnosis, and what the data reveals about access to specialized treatment. Dr. Sanchez-Rodriguez also shares his research journey and insights on improving equity in rheumatology.
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Looking in the Archives
ACR Journals On Air
This episode explores the ARChiVe Registry, a longitudinal database for pediatric vasculitis, with guest Dr. Sam, a pediatric rheumatologist and bioinformatician. The discussion covers the registry’s design, patient selection, and key outcomes, including remission rates, hospitalization, and damage scores (pVDI) across treatment strategies. Dr. Sam highlights how these findings inform clinical practice and discusses the challenges of observational data. The episode also touches on his unique background in social pediatrics and health informatics, emphasizing the evolving role of clinicians...
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SGLT2i in SLE with Type 2 Diabetes
ACR Journals On Air
This week, we explore the potential role of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and comorbid type 2 diabetes (T2D)—a population historically excluded from landmark SGLT2i trials. Our guest, Dr. Karen Costenbader, discusses the rationale behind the study, the nuances of trial emulation design, and key findings regarding cardiovascular and renal outcomes, infection risk, and prescribing patterns in this complex cohort. We also unpack implications for clinical decision-making and the evolving landscape of metabolic and...
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Naming Matters
ACR Journals On Air
Today, we explore why naming matters—especially when it comes to peripheral nervous system disorders in autoimmune diseases like Sjögren’s. Dr. Shanmugam is joined by Dr. Ghaith Noaiseh and Kathy Hammitt, two key contributors to the recently published manuscript, "" in Arthritis & Rheumatology. Together, they discuss the critical importance of unified terminology across specialties, the implications for diagnosis and treatment, and how clearer, consistent language can empower both clinicians and patients. The conversation also delves into the development of Clinical Practice...
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Antiphospholipid Syndrome
ACR Journals On Air
In this episode of ACR Journals on Air, Dr. Jason Knight joins us to discuss his on antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), an autoimmune disease marked by complex thromboinflammatory processes. We explore the evolving understanding of APS pathogenesis, the role of antiphospholipid antibodies, Beta-2 glycoprotein I, and NETosis, as well as current and emerging treatment strategies. Dr. Knight also shares insights from his research career and reflects on the personal and professional journey behind his work. A must-listen for clinicians and researchers focused on autoimmunity and translational...
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A CLASS Project
ACR Journals On Air
In this episode of ACR Journals on Air, host Dr. Vicki Shanmugam returns to the mic and dives into the —an ambitious international study on anti-synthetase syndrome recently published in Arthritis & Rheumatology. Joined by Drs. Sara Faghihi-Kashani, Akira Yoshida, and Giovanni Zanframundo, she explores the clinical characteristics, antibody profiles, and skin and lung manifestations of this complex autoimmune condition. The conversation covers everything from global collaboration challenges to nuanced antibody testing and rare clinical features like hikers’ feet. With insightful...
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PAs In Rheumatology: A Joint Effort
ACR Journals On Air
With the growing shortage of rheumatology specialists in the U.S., healthcare systems face increasing delays, clinician burnout, and inefficiencies. In this episode, we explore a promising solution: the integration of physician assistants/associates (PAs) into rheumatology practice. We’re joined by Benjamin Smith, PA-C, Associate Dean and Program Director at Florida State University, and first author of "" published in Arthritis Care & Research. He shares insights into the demographics, workload, satisfaction, and future potential of rheumatology PAs, highlighting their expanding role in...
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The Weight of Lupus
ACR Journals On Air
Dr. Laura Plantinga joins us to discuss her recent work on the APPEAL study, which examines how lupus affects activities of daily living using patient-reported outcomes and validated measures such as IADLs, BADLs, SLAQ, and PROMIS. We explore her methodological approach, key findings, and implications for clinical practice—particularly how physicians can better support patients in managing functional limitations. Dr. Plantinga also shares insights on translating epidemiologic data into actionable strategies and maintaining scholarly productivity in academic medicine.
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Improving Engagement and Access to Lupus Clinical Trials
ACR Journals On Air
In this episode, we explore a new approach to improving participation in lupus clinical trials by strengthening provider outreach and education. Our guest, Dr. Saira Sheikh of UNC Chapel Hill, discusses the , which focuses on involving healthcare providers and community health workers to better connect patients with trial opportunities. From roundtable discussions to changes in provider behavior, we highlight practical strategies that could improve how clinical trials are conducted.
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Pain Relief or Pill Regret—Examining Acetaminophen Safety in Older Adults
ACR Journals On Air
In this episode, Dr. Kaur and Dr. Abhishek join us to discuss their , exploring how it compares to NSAIDs in safety and effectiveness. They break down their use of the Clinical Practice Research Datalink (CPRD), key findings—especially in arthritis patients—and what this means for clinical practice. It's an insightful look at how big data can challenge assumptions about one of the most used pain medications.
info_outlineIn another installment in the ongoing Arthritis & Rheumatology immunology series, guest David S. Pisetsky, MD, PhD, author of Unique Interplay Between Antinuclear Antibodies and Nuclear Molecules in the Pathogenesis of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, takes us on a deep dive into research in SLE on how the combination of ANAs and immunologically active DNA can create new structures that can promote inflammation throughout the body as well as drive organ inflammation and damage.