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Thoms BL, Bonnell LN, Tompkins B, Nevares A, Lau C. Predictors of inflammatory arthritis among new rheumatology referrals: a cross-sectional study. Rheumatol Adv Pract 2023; 7:rkad067. [PMID: 37641692 PMCID: PMC10460484 DOI: 10.1093/rap/rkad067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives Early diagnosis and treatment of inflammatory arthritis (IA) is essential to optimize disease control. We aimed to identify variables that distinguish IA from non-inflammatory arthropathy by performing a cross-sectional study of rheumatology referral letters and visit records. Further work describes time to assessment and documentation of variables within referral letters. Methods We reviewed rheumatology referral letters and new patient visits over a 6-month period. The diagnosis of IA was based on the clinical judgement of the assessing rheumatologist. IA diagnoses included RA, SpAs, unspecified IA, PMR, crystalline arthropathies and remitting seronegative symmetrical synovitis with pitting oedema. Univariate analysis was performed for each variable. Multivariable logistic regression was performed on statistically significant variables. Results Of 697 patients referred for arthralgia, 25.7% were diagnosed with IA. Variables predictive of IA included tenderness and swelling on examination and ≥1 h of morning stiffness. Increasing arthralgia duration, fatigue and brain fog were negative predictors. The median time from referral to IA diagnosis was 55 days and 20.7% of these patients were seen within 6 weeks. Among referral letters, documentation of arthralgia duration, morning stiffness or joint examination findings was uncommon (31%, 20.5% and 56.7%, respectively). Conclusion We identified positive and negative predictors of IA. Referral letters often missed key information required for the triaging process. Future efforts will be directed towards build a triaging tool to improve the referral quality and capture of those patients with IA who need earlier access to rheumatology care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brendan L Thoms
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Department of Medicine, Robert Larner, MD College of Medicine at the University of Vermont and University of Vermont Medical Center, Burlington, VT, USA
| | - Levi N Bonnell
- Department of General Internal Medicine Research, Robert Larner, MD College of Medicine at the University of Vermont and University of Vermont Medical Center, Burlington, VT, USA
| | - Bradley Tompkins
- Quality Program, Department of Medicine, Robert Larner, MD College of Medicine at the University of Vermont and University of Vermont Medical Center, Burlington, VT, USA
| | - Alana Nevares
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Department of Medicine, Robert Larner, MD College of Medicine at the University of Vermont and University of Vermont Medical Center, Burlington, VT, USA
| | - ChiChi Lau
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Department of Medicine, Robert Larner, MD College of Medicine at the University of Vermont and University of Vermont Medical Center, Burlington, VT, USA
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Shridharmurthy D, Lapane KL, Baek J, Nunes A, Kay J, Liu SH. Comanagement with rheumatology and prescription biologics filled during pregnancy in women with rheumatic diseases: a retrospective analysis of US administrative claims data. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e065189. [PMID: 36549721 PMCID: PMC9791456 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-065189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To evaluate comanagement with rheumatology and biological prescriptions filled during pregnancy among women with axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA), rheumatoid arthritis (RA) or psoriatic arthritis (PsA) and to examine factors associated with receiving comanagement with rheumatology during pregnancy. DESIGN A retrospective analysis of US claims data. SETTING Commercially insured enrollees using data from the 2013-2018 IBM MarketScan Commercial Claims and Encounters Database. PARTICIPANTS We identified 4131 pregnant women aged ≤55 years from the 2013-2018 IBM MarketScan Commercial Claims and Encounters Database with an International Classification of Disease, 9th Revision/10th Revision codes for RA, axSpA or PsA, with continuous enrolment at ≥3 months before the date of the last menstrual period (LMP) (index date) and throughout pregnancy. PRIMARY OUTCOMES Filled biologics (prescriptions and infusions) claims were categorised by 90 days before the LMP and trimester, as were primary care, obstetrician and rheumatological claims. RESULTS The prevalence of axSpA, RA and PsA was 0.7%, 0.2% and 0.04% among reproductive age women. The average maternal age was 32.7 years (SD 5.7). During pregnancy, 9.1% of those with axSpA (n=2,410) and 56.4% of those with RA/PsA (n=1,721) had a rheumatological claim. Biologics claims were less common among those with axSpA (90 days before LMP: 1.6%, during pregnancy: 1.1%) than those with RA/PsA (90 days before LMP: 11.9%, during pregnancy: 6.9%). Medications during pregnancy included corticosteroids (axSpA: 0.3%, RA/PsA: 2.2%), non-biological disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (axSpA: 0.2%, RA/PsA: 1.7%), non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (axSpA: 0.2%, RA/PsA: 1.3%) and opioids (axSpA: 0.2%, RA/PsA: 0.6%). Established rheumatological care and biologics claims during the 90 days before LMP showed good prediction accuracy for receiving comanagement with rheumatology during pregnancy (axSpA: area under the receiver operator curve (AUC) 0.73, RA/PsA: AUC 0.70). CONCLUSION Comanagement with rheumatology during pregnancy occurs infrequently, especially for women with axSpA. Biologics claims during pregnancy may not align with published guidelines. Future research is warranted to improve comanagement with rheumatology during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Divya Shridharmurthy
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
- Clinical and Population Health Research Program, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Kate L Lapane
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jonggyu Baek
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Anthony Nunes
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jonathan Kay
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
- Division of Rheumatology, UMass Memorial Medical Center, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Shao-Hsien Liu
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
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3
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Lapane KL, Dubé C, Ferrucci K, Khan S, Kuhn KA, Yi E, Kay J, Liu SH. Patient perspectives on health care provider practices leading to an axial spondyloarthritis diagnosis: an exploratory qualitative research study. BMC FAMILY PRACTICE 2021; 22:251. [PMID: 34930136 PMCID: PMC8691008 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-021-01599-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The average time to a diagnosis for people with axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) is 7-10 years. Delayed diagnosis may result in increased structural damage, worse physical function, and worse quality of life relative to patients with a timely axSpA diagnosis. Understanding patient experiences may provide insights for how to reduce diagnostic delays. OBJECTIVE To provide foundational knowledge about patient experiences with healthcare providers leading to an axSpA diagnosis. METHODS We conducted an exploratory qualitative research study with six focus groups interviews with participants recruited from three rheumatology clinics within the United States (MA (n = 3); CO (n = 2); PA (n = 1)) that included a total of 26 adults (10 females, 16 males) with rheumatologist confirmed diagnosis of axSpA in 2019. Focus groups were ~ 2 h, audio recorded, transcribed, and subject to dual coding. The codes reviewed were in relation to the patients' diagnostic experiences. RESULTS Patients described frustrating and lengthy diagnostic journeys. They recognized that the causes of diagnostic delays in axSpA are multifactorial (e.g., no definitive diagnostic test, disease characteristics, lack of primary care provider's awareness about axSpA, trust). Patients described how doctors minimized or dismissed complaints about symptoms or told them that their issues were psychosomatic. Patients believed the healthcare system contributed to diagnostic delays (e.g., lack of time in clinical visits, difficulty accessing rheumatologists, health insurance challenges). Advice to physicians to reduce the diagnostic delay included allowing time for patients to give a complete picture of their illness experience, listening to, and believing patients, earlier referral to rheumatology, provision of HLA-B27 gene testing, and that physicians need to partner with their patients. CONCLUSIONS Patients desire a definitive test that could be administered earlier in the course of axSpA. Until such a test is available, patients want clinicians who listen to, believe, and partner with them, and who will follow them until a diagnosis is reached. Educating primary care clinicians about guidelines and referral for diagnosis of axSpA could reduce diagnostic delay.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate L Lapane
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 368 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA, 01655, USA.
| | - Catherine Dubé
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 368 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA, 01655, USA
| | - Katarina Ferrucci
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 368 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA, 01655, USA
- Clinical and Population Health Research Program, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Sara Khan
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 368 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA, 01655, USA
| | - Kristine A Kuhn
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Denver, CO, USA
| | - Esther Yi
- Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation, East Hanover, NJ, USA
| | - Jonathan Kay
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 368 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA, 01655, USA
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, UMass Memorial Medical Center, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Shao-Hsien Liu
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 368 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA, 01655, USA
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
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4
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Lapane KL, Khan S, Shridharmurthy D, Beccia A, Dubé C, Yi E, Kay J, Liu SH. Primary care physician perspectives on barriers to diagnosing axial Spondyloarthritis: a qualitative study. BMC FAMILY PRACTICE 2020; 21:204. [PMID: 32993510 PMCID: PMC7526414 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-020-01274-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The average delay in diagnosis for patients with axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) is 7 to 10 years. Factors that contribute to this delay are multifactorial and include the lack of diagnostic criteria (although classification criteria exist) for axSpA and the difficulty in distinguishing inflammatory back pain, a key symptom of axSpA, from other highly prevalent forms of low back pain. We sought to describe reasons for diagnostic delay for axSpA provided by primary care physicians. METHODS We conducted a qualitative research study which included 18 US primary care physicians, balanced by gender. Physicians provided informed consent to participate in an in-depth interview (< 60 min), conducted in person (n = 3) or over the phone (n = 15), in 2019. The analysis focuses on thoughts about factors contributing to diagnostic delay in axSpA. RESULTS Physicians noted that the disease characteristics contributing to diagnostic delay include: back pain is common and axSpA is less prevalent, slow progression of axSpA, intermittent nature of axSpA pain, and in the absence of abnormal radiographs of the spine or sacroiliac joints, there is no definitive test for axSpA. Patient characteristics believed to contribute to diagnostic delay included having multiple conditions in need of attention, infrequent interactions with the health care system, and "doctor shopping." Doctors noted that patients wait until the last moments of the clinical encounter to discuss back pain. Problematic physician characteristics included lack of rapport with patients, lack of setting appropriate expectations, and attribution of back pain to other factors. Structural/system issues included short appointments, lack of continuity of care, insufficient insurance coverage for tests, lack of back pain clinics, and a shortage of rheumatologists. CONCLUSION Primary care physicians agreed that lengthy axSpA diagnosis delays are challenging to address owing to the multifactorial causes (e.g., disease characteristics, patient characteristics, lack of definitive tests, system factors).
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate L Lapane
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 368 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA. .,Sherman Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 55 Lake Avenue North, 6th floor, Worcester, MA, 01655, USA.
| | - Sara Khan
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 368 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Divya Shridharmurthy
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 368 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA.,Clinical and Population Health Research Program, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 368 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Ariel Beccia
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 368 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA.,Clinical and Population Health Research Program, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 368 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Catherine Dubé
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 368 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Esther Yi
- Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation, 59 Route 10, East Hanover, NJ, 07936, USA
| | - Jonathan Kay
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 368 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA.,Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, 55 Lake Avenue North, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA.,Division of Rheumatology, UMass Memorial Medical Center, 119 Belmont St, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Shao-Hsien Liu
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 368 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA.,Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, 55 Lake Avenue North, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
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5
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Early Intervention in Ulcerative Colitis: Ready for Prime Time? J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9082646. [PMID: 32823997 PMCID: PMC7464940 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9082646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2020] [Revised: 08/09/2020] [Accepted: 08/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Growing evidence shows that ulcerative colitis (UC) is a progressive disease similar to Crohn’s disease (CD). The UC-related burden is often underestimated by physicians and a standard step-up therapeutic approach is preferred. However, in many patients with UC the disease activity is not adequately controlled by current management, leading to poor long-term prognosis. Data from both randomized controlled trials and real-world studies support early intervention in CD in order to prevent disease progression and irreversible bowel damage. Similarly, an early disease intervention during the so-called “window of opportunity” could lead to better outcomes in UC. Here, we summarize the literature evidence on early intervention in patients with UC, highlighting strengths and limitations of this approach.
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6
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Lee CU, Kim JN, Kim JW, Park SH, Lee H, Kim SK, Choe JY. Korean rheumatology workforce from 1992 to 2015: current status and future demand. Korean J Intern Med 2019; 34:660-668. [PMID: 29232941 PMCID: PMC6506748 DOI: 10.3904/kjim.2016.417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2016] [Accepted: 03/31/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Rheumatology in Korea has rapidly advanced in the 24 years since the subspecialty board certification program was established in 1992. The objective of this investigation was to analyze the distribution of rheumatology practices in Korea in order to better understand the rheumatology workforce. METHODS Using a membership list from the Korean College of Rheumatology (KCR), we obtained information on practicing rheumatologists. We mapped the ratio of rheumatologists to the general population and to patients with rheumatologic disease using data from Statistics Korea and the 2015 Health Insurance Review & Assessment Service (HIRA). RESULTS In the 16 administrative districts of Korea in 2015, there were 311 practicing rheumatologists on the list of KCR members. There were 218 members practicing in metropolitan areas and 93 members in the provinces. The mean number of rheumatologists per 100,000 people was 0.60, with 0.33/100,000 in the provinces, but 0.92/100,000 in metropolitan areas, a 2.7-fold difference. The number of rheumatologists per 100,000 patients with chronic rheumatic disease was 17.21 in metropolitan areas but 6.57 in the provinces, according to 2015 HIRA data. This geographic maldistribution emerged as a problem; indeed, the regional disparity in the distribution of Korean rheumatologists was striking when compared to the published medical professional distribution in 2014. CONCLUSION Because of the uneven distribution of rheumatologists, it is likely that some patients with chronic rheumatic conditions have limited access to rheumatology care. Thus, a policy-based approach is needed to alleviate this disparity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Sung-Hoon Park
- Correspondence to Sung-Hoon Park, M.D. Division of rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Catholic University of Daegu School of Medicine, 33 Duryugongwon-ro 17-gil, Nam-gu, Daegu 42472, Korea Tel: +82-53-650-4027 Fax: +82-53-621-3166 E-mail:
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Hedin CRH, Vavricka SR, Stagg AJ, Schoepfer A, Raine T, Puig L, Pleyer U, Navarini A, van der Meulen-de Jong AE, Maul J, Katsanos K, Kagramanova A, Greuter T, González-Lama Y, van Gaalen F, Ellul P, Burisch J, Bettenworth D, Becker MD, Bamias G, Rieder F. The Pathogenesis of Extraintestinal Manifestations: Implications for IBD Research, Diagnosis, and Therapy. J Crohns Colitis 2019; 13:541-554. [PMID: 30445584 DOI: 10.1093/ecco-jcc/jjy191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
This article reports on the sixth scientific workshop of the European Crohn's and Colitis Organisation [ECCO] on the pathogenesis of extraintestinal manifestations [EIMs] in inflammatory bowel disease [IBD]. This paper has been drafted by 15 ECCO members and 6 external experts [in rheumatology, dermatology, ophthalmology, and immunology] from 10 European countries and the USA. Within the workshop, contributors formed subgroups to address specific areas. Following a comprehensive literature search, the supporting text was finalized under the leadership of the heads of the working groups before being integrated by the group consensus leaders.
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Affiliation(s)
- C R H Hedin
- Gastroenterology unit, Patient Area Gastroenterology, Dermatovenereology and Rheumatology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - S R Vavricka
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - A J Stagg
- Centre for Immunobiology, Bart's and The London Medical School, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - A Schoepfer
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - T Raine
- Department of Gastroenterology, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge University Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | - L Puig
- Department of Dermatology, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau. Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - U Pleyer
- University Eye Clinic, Uveitis Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - A Navarini
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | - J Maul
- Gastroenterologie am Bayerischen Platz, Berlin, Germany.,Department of Medicine (Gastroenterology, Infectious Diseases, Rheumatology), Campus Benjamin Franklin, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - K Katsanos
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, University of Ioannina School of Medical Sciences, Ioannina, Greece
| | - A Kagramanova
- IBD Department, The Loginov Moscow Clinical Scientific Centre, Moscow, Russia
| | - T Greuter
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Gastroenterology Research Unit, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Y González-Lama
- IBD Unit, Gastroenterology and Hepatology Department, Puerta de Hierro University Hospital, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - F van Gaalen
- Department of Rheumatology, Leiden University Medical Center [LUMC], Leiden, Netherlands
| | - P Ellul
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, Mater Dei Hospital, Msida, Malta
| | - J Burisch
- Center for Clinical Research and Prevention, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Abdominal Center K, Medical Section, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - D Bettenworth
- Department of Medicine B, Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - M D Becker
- Department of Ophthalmology, Triemli Hospital, Zurich, Switzerland & Department of Ophthalmology, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - G Bamias
- National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, GI Unit, 3rd Academic Department of Internal Medicine, Sotiria Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - F Rieder
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition; Digestive Diseases and Surgery Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, USA
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Gheita TA, Eesa NN. Rheumatology in Egypt: back to the future. Rheumatol Int 2018; 39:1-12. [PMID: 30406299 DOI: 10.1007/s00296-018-4192-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2018] [Accepted: 10/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Medical knowledge in ancient Egypt had a remarkable reputation since rulers of other empires used to request the pharaoh to send them their best physician to treat their beloved ones. Many rheumatologic conditions as giant-cell arteritis, reactive arthritis and other forms of spondyloarthritis have been identified in ancient Egyptian materials. Rheumatologists in Egypt are enormously expanding and mastering the tools that aid them in enhancing the management of rheumatic diseases. More Egyptian rheumatologists are actively participating in the annual European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) and American College of Rheumatology conferences and those attached to well known state of the art centers are increasing. EULAR certified Egyptian MSUS trainers are effectively performing regionally. This review throws light on the rheumatology practice in Egypt, its progress from ancient times passing through Egyptian medical healthcare services, education systems for rheumatologists, rheumatology associations, an overview on the spectrum of rheumatic diseases through publications in the field till future perspectives. Rheumatology in Egypt is an actively growing and dynamic specialty of medicine with considerable contributions to the world's literature. These days, persistent efforts are mandatory to raise the standard of clinical and basic research, to optimize clinical practice with regard to new biologics, to develop tailored and targeted therapies for the rheumatic diseases, and to meet the medical demands of the exponentially increasing Egyptian population. Opportunities and challenges discussed high-lighten future perspectives needed to boost the rheumatology practice in Egypt.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamer A Gheita
- Rheumatology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Nahla N Eesa
- Rheumatology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
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Hughes GD, Aboyade OM, Beauclair R, Mbamalu ON, Puoane TR. Characterizing Herbal Medicine Use for Noncommunicable Diseases in Urban South Africa. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE : ECAM 2015; 2015:736074. [PMID: 26557865 PMCID: PMC4629029 DOI: 10.1155/2015/736074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2015] [Accepted: 09/16/2015] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Economic challenges associated with noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and the sociocultural outlook of many patients especially in Africa have increased dependence on traditional herbal medicines (THMs) for these diseases. A cross-sectional descriptive study designed to determine the prevalence of and reasons for THM use in the management of NCDs among South African adults was conducted in an urban, economically disadvantaged area of Cape Town, South Africa. In a cohort of 1030 participants recruited as part of the existing Prospective Urban and Rural Epidemiological (PURE) study, 456 individuals were identified. The overall prevalence of THM use was 27%, of which 61% was for NCDs. Participants used THM because of a family history (49%) and sociocultural beliefs (33%). Hypertensive medication was most commonly used concurrently with THM. Healthcare professionals need to be aware of the potential dualistic use of THM and conventional drugs by patients, as this could significantly influence health outcomes. Efforts should be made to educate patients on the potential for drug/herb interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gail D. Hughes
- South African Herbal Science and Medicine Institute (SAHSMI), Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of the Western Cape, Private Bag X17, Bellville 7535, South Africa
| | - Oluwaseyi M. Aboyade
- South African Herbal Science and Medicine Institute, University of the Western Cape, Bellville 7535, South Africa
| | - Roxanne Beauclair
- The South African Centre for Epidemiological Modelling and Analysis, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch 7602, South Africa
- International Centre for Reproductive Health (ICRH), Ghent University, De Pintelaan 185 UZP114, 9000 Gent, Belgium
| | - Oluchi N. Mbamalu
- School of Pharmacy, University of the Western Cape, Bellville 7535, South Africa
| | - Thandi R. Puoane
- School of Public Health, University of the Western Cape, Bellville 7535, South Africa
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10
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Selecting Therapeutic Targets in Inflammatory Bowel Disease (STRIDE): Determining Therapeutic Goals for Treat-to-Target. Am J Gastroenterol 2015; 110:1324-38. [PMID: 26303131 DOI: 10.1038/ajg.2015.233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1300] [Impact Index Per Article: 144.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2014] [Revised: 05/02/2015] [Accepted: 06/01/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The Selecting Therapeutic Targets in Inflammatory Bowel Disease (STRIDE) program was initiated by the International Organization for the Study of Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IOIBD). It examined potential treatment targets for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) to be used for a "treat-to-target" clinical management strategy using an evidence-based expert consensus process. METHODS A Steering Committee of 28 IBD specialists developed recommendations based on a systematic literature review and expert opinion. Consensus was gained if ≥75% of participants scored the recommendation as 7-10 on a 10-point rating scale (where 10=agree completely). RESULTS The group agreed upon 12 recommendations for ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD). The agreed target for UC was clinical/patient-reported outcome (PRO) remission (defined as resolution of rectal bleeding and diarrhea/altered bowel habit) and endoscopic remission (defined as a Mayo endoscopic subscore of 0-1). Histological remission was considered as an adjunctive goal. Clinical/PRO remission was also agreed upon as a target for CD and defined as resolution of abdominal pain and diarrhea/altered bowel habit; and endoscopic remission, defined as resolution of ulceration at ileocolonoscopy, or resolution of findings of inflammation on cross-sectional imaging in patients who cannot be adequately assessed with ileocolonoscopy. Biomarker remission (normal C-reactive protein (CRP) and calprotectin) was considered as an adjunctive target. CONCLUSIONS Evidence- and consensus-based recommendations for selecting the goals for treat-to-target strategies in patients with IBD are made available. Prospective studies are needed to determine how these targets will change disease course and patients' quality of life.
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Kaneko Y, Koike T, Oda H, Yamamoto K, Miyasaka N, Harigai M, Yamanaka H, Ishiguro N, Tanaka Y, Takeuchi T. Obstacles to the implementation of the treat-to-target strategy for rheumatoid arthritis in clinical practice in Japan. Mod Rheumatol 2014; 25:43-9. [PMID: 24950169 DOI: 10.3109/14397595.2014.926607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To clarify the obstacles preventing the implementation of the treat-to-target (T2T) strategy for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in clinical practice. METHODS A total of 301 rheumatologists in Japan completed a questionnaire. In the first section, participants were indirectly questioned on the implementation of basic components of T2T, and in the second section, participants were directly questioned on their level of agreement and application. RESULTS Although nearly all participants set treatment targets for the majority of RA patients with moderate to high disease activity, the proportion who set clinical remission as their target was 59%, with only 45% of these using composite measures. The proportion of participants who monitored X-rays and Health Assessment Questionnaires for all their patients was 44% and 14%, respectively. The proportion of participants who did not discuss treatment strategies was 44%, with approximately half of these reasoning that this was due to a proportion of patients having a lack of understanding of the treatment strategy or inability to make decisions. When participants were directly questioned, there was a high level of agreement with the T2T recommendations. CONCLUSION Although there was a high level of agreement with the T2T recommendations, major obstacles preventing its full implementation still remain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuko Kaneko
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine , Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo , Japan
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12
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Curtis JR, Saag KG. Evaluating and improving the quality of care in rheumatic disease. Expert Rev Pharmacoecon Outcomes Res 2014; 4:429-39. [DOI: 10.1586/14737167.4.4.429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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13
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Palmer D, El Miedany Y. From guidelines to clinical practice: cardiovascular risk management in inflammatory arthritis patients. Br J Community Nurs 2013; 18:424-8. [PMID: 24005485 DOI: 10.12968/bjcn.2013.18.9.424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
There exists significant evidence of increased risk of cardiovascular (CV) disease in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients in comparison with the general population. This finding has been supported by a number of guidelines recommending screening for CV disease risk in patients with the disease. However, the opportunity to identify and manage those patients at risk has been missed in both primary and secondary care. The success of CV risk management in diabetes patients provides a clear incentive to identify and actively manage CV risk in all RA patients as part of routine practice. This article provides an approach that shows how to assess for CV risk in standard clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah Palmer
- Advanced Nurse Practitioner, North Middlesex University Hospital, London
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PINCUS THEODORE, CASTREJÓN ISABEL, YAZICI YUSUF. Documenting the Value of Care for Rheumatoid Arthritis, Analogous to Hypertension, Diabetes, and Hyperlipidemia: Is Control of Individual Patient Self-Report Measures of Global Estimate and Physical Function More Valuable Than Laboratory Tests, Radiographs, Indices, or Remission Criteria? J Rheumatol 2013; 40:1469-74. [DOI: 10.3899/jrheum.130736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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15
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Smolen JS, Braun J, Dougados M, Emery P, Fitzgerald O, Helliwell P, Kavanaugh A, Kvien TK, Landewé R, Luger T, Mease P, Olivieri I, Reveille J, Ritchlin C, Rudwaleit M, Schoels M, Sieper J, Wit MD, Baraliakos X, Betteridge N, Burgos-Vargas R, Collantes-Estevez E, Deodhar A, Elewaut D, Gossec L, Jongkees M, Maccarone M, Redlich K, van den Bosch F, Wei JCC, Winthrop K, van der Heijde D. Treating spondyloarthritis, including ankylosing spondylitis and psoriatic arthritis, to target: recommendations of an international task force. Ann Rheum Dis 2013; 73:6-16. [PMID: 23749611 PMCID: PMC3888616 DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2013-203419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 304] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Therapeutic targets have been defined for diseases like diabetes, hypertension or rheumatoid arthritis and adhering to them has improved outcomes. Such targets are just emerging for spondyloarthritis (SpA). OBJECTIVE To define the treatment target for SpA including ankylosing spondylitis and psoriatic arthritis (PsA) and develop recommendations for achieving the target, including a treat-to-target management strategy. METHODS Based on results of a systematic literature review and expert opinion, a task force of expert physicians and patients developed recommendations which were broadly discussed and voted upon in a Delphi-like process. Level of evidence, grade and strength of the recommendations were derived by respective means. The commonalities between axial SpA, peripheral SpA and PsA were discussed in detail. RESULTS Although the literature review did not reveal trials comparing a treat-to-target approach with another or no strategy, it provided indirect evidence regarding an optimised approach to therapy that facilitated the development of recommendations. The group agreed on 5 overarching principles and 11 recommendations; 9 of these recommendations related commonly to the whole spectrum of SpA and PsA, and only 2 were designed separately for axial SpA, peripheral SpA and PsA. The main treatment target, which should be based on a shared decision with the patient, was defined as remission, with the alternative target of low disease activity. Follow-up examinations at regular intervals that depend on the patient's status should safeguard the evolution of disease activity towards the targeted goal. Additional recommendations relate to extra-articular and extramusculoskeletal aspects and other important factors, such as comorbidity. While the level of evidence was generally quite low, the mean strength of recommendation was 9-10 (10: maximum agreement) for all recommendations. A research agenda was formulated. CONCLUSIONS The task force defined the treatment target as remission or, alternatively, low disease activity, being aware that the evidence base is not strong and needs to be expanded by future research. These recommendations can inform the various stakeholders about expert opinion that aims for reaching optimal outcomes of SpA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josef S Smolen
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine 3, Medical University of Vienna, , Vienna, Austria
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Leon L, Jover JA, Loza E, Zunzunegui MV, Lajas C, Vadillo C, Fontsere O, Rodriguez-Rodriguez L, Martinez C, Fernandez-Gutierrez B, Abasolo L. Health-related quality of life as a main determinant of access to rheumatologic care. Rheumatol Int 2013; 33:1797-804. [PMID: 23306593 DOI: 10.1007/s00296-012-2599-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2012] [Accepted: 12/08/2012] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
To evaluate a rheumatology outpatient consultation access system for new patients. New patients seen from April 2005 to April 2006 at our rheumatology clinic (n = 4,460) were included and classified according to their appointment type: ordinary appointments (OA) to be seen within 30 days, urgent appointments (UA) and work disability appointments (WDA) to be seen within 3 days. Age, sex, diagnosis, and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) as determined by the Rosser Index were recorded. Logistic regression models were run to identify factors that contribute to each type of appointment. OA was the method of access for 1,938 new patients, while 1,194 and 1,328 patients were seen through WDA and UA appointments, respectively. Younger male patients, and those with microcrystalline arthritis, sciatica, shoulder, back, or neck pain, were more likely to use the faster access systems (UA or WDA), whereas patients with a degenerative disease were mainly seen through OA (<0.001). Subjects with poor (3.96; 95 % CI, 2.8-5.5) or very poor HRQoL (70.8; 95 % CI, 14.9-334) were strongly associated to visiting a rheumatologist through the WDA or UA access systems, respectively, compared to OA. Age, gender, diagnosis, and mainly health-related quality of life are associated with the referral pattern of access to rheumatologic outpatient care. Among new patients subjects with the worst HRQoL were more likely to access with faster methods (UA or WDA) than those with better HRQoL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leticia Leon
- Rheumatology Unit, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Calle Profesor Martin Lagos S/N, 28040 Madrid, Spain.
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17
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Mortality in rheumatoid arthritis over the last fifty years: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Joint Bone Spine 2013; 80:29-33. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jbspin.2012.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 181] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2011] [Accepted: 02/08/2012] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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18
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Yazici Y, Gibofsky A. The times they are a changin'. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2012; 52:3-4. [PMID: 23238978 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/kes359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
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Epis OM, Giacomelli L, Deidda S, Bruschi E. Tight control applied to the biological therapy of rheumatoid arthritis. Autoimmun Rev 2012; 12:839-41. [PMID: 23219770 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2012.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
In the last decade, treatment strategies for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) have included the early use of disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs, since prompt suppression of disease activity is associated with a reduction in radiological damage. This strategy has now been incorporated into the broader concept of "tight control", defined as a treatment strategy tailored to each patient with RA, which aims to achieve a predefined level of low disease activity or remission within a certain period of time. To pursue this goal, tight control should include careful and continuous monitoring of disease activity, and early therapeutic adjustments or switches should be considered as necessary. It is noteworthy that the key role of tight control of RA has been stressed by the recent EULAR Guidelines. This review discusses the most recent evidence concerning the role of a tight control strategy in the treatment of RA, and on how this strategy should be pursued.
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Fautrel B, Granger B, Combe B, Saraux A, Guillemin F, Le Loet X. Matrix to predict rapid radiographic progression of early rheumatoid arthritis patients from the community treated with methotrexate or leflunomide: results from the ESPOIR cohort. Arthritis Res Ther 2012; 14:R249. [PMID: 23164197 PMCID: PMC3674616 DOI: 10.1186/ar4092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2012] [Accepted: 11/06/2012] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Early rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients may show rapid radiographic progression (RRP) despite rapid initiation of synthetic disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs). The present study aimed to develop a matrix to predict risk of RRP despite early DMARD initiation in real life settings. Methods The ESPOIR cohort included 813 patients from the community with early arthritis for < 6 months; 370 patients had early RA and had received methotrexate or leflunomide during the first year of follow-up. RRP was defined as an increase in the van der Heijde-modified Sharp score (vSHS) ≥ 5 points at 1 year. Determinants of RRP were examined first by bivariate analysis, then multivariate stepwise logistic regression analysis. A visual matrix model was then developed to predict RRP in terms of patient baseline characteristics. Results We analyzed data for 370 patients. The mean Disease Activity Score in 28 joints was 5.4 ± 1.2, 18.1% of patients had typical RA erosion on radiographs and 86.4% satisfied the 2010 criteria of the American College of Rheumatology/European League Against Rheumatism. During the first year, mean change in vSHS was 1.6 ± 5.5, and 41 patients (11.1%) showed RRP. A multivariate logistic regression model enabled the development of a matrix predicting RRP in terms of baseline swollen joint count, C-reactive protein level, anti-citrullinated peptide antibodies status, and erosions seen on radiography for patients with early RA who received DMARDs. Conclusions The ESPOIR matrix may be a useful clinical practice tool to identify patients with early RA at high risk of RRP despite early DMARD initiation.
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Meeting the challenge of the ageing of the population: Issues in access to specialist care for arthritis. Best Pract Res Clin Rheumatol 2012; 26:599-609. [DOI: 10.1016/j.berh.2012.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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Agrawal H, Hay MC, Volkmann ER, Maranian P, Khanna D, Furst DE. Satisfaction and Access to Clinical Care in a Rheumatology Clinic at a Large Urban Medical Center. J Clin Rheumatol 2012; 18:209-11. [DOI: 10.1097/rhu.0b013e318259aa1b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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23
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Assessment of control of rheumatoid arthritis disease activity. Best Pract Res Clin Rheumatol 2011; 25:497-507. [DOI: 10.1016/j.berh.2011.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2011] [Accepted: 10/11/2011] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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24
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Development of a structured on-site nursing program for training nurse specialists in rheumatology. Rheumatol Int 2011; 32:1685-90. [DOI: 10.1007/s00296-011-1869-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2010] [Accepted: 02/18/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Smarr KL, Musser DR, Shigaki CL, Johnson R, Hanson KD, Siva C. Online self-management in rheumatoid arthritis: a patient-centered model application. Telemed J E Health 2011; 17:104-10. [PMID: 21361817 DOI: 10.1089/tmj.2010.0116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to describe the online transformation of an empirically validated, clinic-based, self-management (SM) program for rheumatoid arthritis. MATERIALS AND METHODS A cognitive-behavioral framework served as the theoretical basis for the intervention. As with the clinic-based approach, the psychoeducational program included educational modules, weekly homework assignments, and self-evaluation. The dynamic online environment included secure communication tools to support a virtual community for the participants to garner peer support. In addition to peer support, weekly follow-up support was provided by a trained clinician via telephone. We describe the process and structure of the online self-management (OSM) intervention. Administrative issues including clinical monitoring and management, data collection, and security safeguards are considered. Utilization and management data are provided and explored for 33 initial subjects. RESULTS Individuals who volunteer to participate in an online modality are eager to receive this home-based programming. They readily engaged with all aspects of the OSM program and experienced few difficulties navigating the environment. CONCLUSION An OSM site provides a convenient, effective, and securely maintained health service, once restricted to clinic settings. The OSM application can be used to extend the benefits of SM programs to broad target audiences and serves as a model for the emerging generation of Internet-based clinical management/delivery systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen L Smarr
- Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans Hospital , Columbia, Missouri, USA
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Sokka T, Pincus T. Joint counts to assess rheumatoid arthritis for clinical research and usual clinical care: advantages and limitations. Rheum Dis Clin North Am 2010; 35:713-22, v-vi. [PMID: 19962615 DOI: 10.1016/j.rdc.2009.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
A joint examination is prerequisite to a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and quantitative counts of swollen and tender joints are the most specific of the 7 RA Core Data Set measures for patient assessment. Therefore, joint counts are weighted of greater importance than the other 5 Core Data Set measures in American College of Rheumatology response criteria and all RA indices in which it is included. Nonetheless, several limitations to the joint count have been recognized: (1) poor reproducibility with a requirement to be performed by the same observer at each visit; (2) likelihood to improve with placebo treatment as much or more than the other 5 RA Core Data Set measures; (3) similar or lower relative efficiencies than global and patient measures to document differences between active and control treatments in clinical trials; (4) improvement over 5 years while joint damage and functional disability may progress; (5) lower sensitivity in detecting inflammatory activity than ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging. Most visits to a rheumatologist do not include a formal quantitative joint count. Quantitative patient self-report data are as sensitive to change and as informative about prognosis and outcomes as joint counts. It may be suggested that a careful qualitative (nonquantitative) joint examination, supplemented by quantitative self-report questionnaire scores to interpret physical examination findings, may be adequate to monitor patients and document changes in status in busy clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuulikki Sokka
- Jyväskylä Central Hospital, Jyväskylä, and Medcare Oy, Aänekoski, Finland
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Pincus T, Yazici Y, Bergman MJ. Patient questionnaires in rheumatoid arthritis: advantages and limitations as a quantitative, standardized scientific medical history. Rheum Dis Clin North Am 2010; 35:735-43, vii. [PMID: 19962618 DOI: 10.1016/j.rdc.2009.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
In many chronic diseases, objective gold standard measures such as blood pressure, cholesterol, and bone densitometry often provide most of the information used to establish a diagnosis and guide therapy. By contrast, in inflammatory rheumatic diseases, information from a patient history usually is considerably more prominent in clinical management. Patient history data can be recorded as standardized, quantitative scientific data through use of validated self-reported questionnaires. Patient questionnaires address the primary concerns of patients and their families. Questionnaire scores distinguish active from control treatments in clinical trials at similar levels to swollen and tender joint counts or laboratory tests. Patient questionnaire data are correlated significantly with joint counts, radiographic scores, and laboratory tests, but usually are far more significant than these measures in the prognosis of severe outcomes of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), including work disability, costs, and premature death. Limitations of patient questionnaires are based on cultural features involving variation in responses among ethnic groups, and a need for translation, although translated questionnaires can be as valuable as a translator. Patient questionnaires do not replace further medical history, physical examination, laboratory tests, and imaging data, and they require interpretation in a context of these standard sources of information at any clinical encounter. Patient questionnaires are useful to monitor patient status in usual clinical care, with almost no effort on the part of the physician and staff if distributed by the receptionist in the infrastructure of office practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theodore Pincus
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, New York University School of Medicine and NYU Hospital for Joint Diseases, Room 1608, 301 East 17th Street, New York, NY 10003, USA.
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Fautrel B, Benhamou M, Foltz V, Rincheval N, Rat AC, Combe B, Berenbaum F, Bourgeois P, Guillemin F. Early referral to the rheumatologist for early arthritis patients: evidence for suboptimal care. Results from the ESPOIR cohort. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2009; 49:147-55. [PMID: 19933784 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/kep340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Fautrel
- Department of Rheumatology, Pitié-Salpétriêre Hospital, 83 Boulevard de l'Hôpital, 75651 Paris Cedex 13, France.
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Is a self-report RAPID3 score a reasonable alternative to a DAS28 in usual clinical care? J Clin Rheumatol 2009; 15:215-7. [PMID: 19654489 DOI: 10.1097/rhu.0b013e3181b40a9a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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“DMARD naïve period” in treatment of rheumatoid arthritis: a different story. INDIAN JOURNAL OF RHEUMATOLOGY 2009. [DOI: 10.1016/s0973-3698(10)60187-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is recognized as a disease with a natural history of severe long-term outcomes, which appear to be improving at this time, as reported from many clinics. RECENT FINDINGS Improved outcomes of many long-term consequences of inflammation such as joint deformity, functional declines, work disability, and early death have been reported in recent years. SUMMARY Therapies for RA are assessed in randomized clinical trials and in clinical care primarily according to measures of inflammatory activity, which may change considerably over days, weeks, and months. In usual clinical care, long-term consequences of the disease, which often require years of observation, can also be assessed. Data in published reports of both clinical trials and clinical care continue to include only a minority of all patients with RA. Further efforts are needed to promote collection of quantitative data in all patients with RA, at all visits in all clinical settings, to facilitate 'tight control' and better outcomes for all patients with RA.
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Kvalvik AG, Larsen S, Aadland HA, Høyeraal HM. Changing structure and resources in a rheumatology combined unit during 1977–1999. Scand J Rheumatol 2009; 36:125-35. [PMID: 17476619 DOI: 10.1080/03009740600907899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim was to study the changing structure and resources in a rheumatism hospital during the period 1977-1999 when rheumatology care was decentralized and new treatment strategies were introduced. METHODS Data on hospital management and production were retrieved retrospectively. RESULTS The number of beds was stepwise reduced from 133 to 44 and the average length of stay declined from 48 to 16 days. The combined unit and multidisciplinary team organization was kept, ensuring the combined effort of rheumatologists, rheumasurgeons, registered nurses, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and social workers. One-third of the total staff was rheumateam members in 1977 compared to one-half in 1999. The proportions of physicians and registered nurses increased while the proportion of physiotherapists was stable. The number of discharges remained relatively unchanged and the number of outpatient consultations increased. Inflammatory rheumatic diseases remained the largest diagnostic group of in- and outpatients. Hospitalized care was received primarily by patients with arthritis and spondylitis. Patients with vasculitis and diffuse disorders of connective tissue accounted for an increasing proportion of the outpatient clinic production. Surgical procedures became more prevalent. Since 1995 approximately 50 large joint replacements have been performed annually. CONCLUSION The length of stay declined and patient care was shifted towards the outpatient clinic. The multidisciplinary team was strengthened. More resources were dedicated to physician-led and nurse-dependent procedures, but physiotherapy and rehabilitation remained part of inpatient care throughout the period. The expertise concentrated on inflammatory rheumatic disorders. The modesty of the large joint replacement caseload may challenge decentralized care.
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Harrington JT. The uses of disease activity scoring and the physician global assessment of disease activity for managing rheumatoid arthritis in rheumatology practice. J Rheumatol 2009; 36:925-9. [PMID: 19369466 DOI: 10.3899/jrheum.081046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the uses of quantitative disease activity scoring and a physician global assessment of disease activity for managing rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in rheumatology practice. METHODS The Global Arthritis Score (GAS) and a physician global assessment (Physician Global) were determined during each office visit for a community practice RA population. The GAS was calculated from patients' self-reported pain, functional assessment, and tender joint count. The Physician Global was recorded on a 10-point visual analog scale. The correlation of these 2 disease activity measures was determined for the most recent office visit of 185 patients with RA, and the reasons for discordant results were identified by chart review. RESULTS The GAS and Physician Global were concordant for active or inactive disease in 126 of 185 patients (68%) and were discordant in 59 (32%). Forty-five of these discordant patients had a high GAS while their Physician Global indicated inactive disease. Their GAS values were high because of osteoarthritis, back pain, soft tissue rheumatism, and/or prior joint damage rather than active RA. The other 14 patients had a low GAS with an uncontrolled Physician Global for a variety of reasons. CONCLUSION (1) An RA disease activity score and a quantitative Physician Global can be measured during rheumatology office visits to document patients' disease status. (2) Disease activity scoring contributes valuable information, but should not replace the Physician Global in guiding RA patient management or reimbursement decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Timothy Harrington
- Rheumatology Division, Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin 53715, USA.
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Young A. What have we learnt from early rheumatoid arthritis cohorts? Best Pract Res Clin Rheumatol 2009; 23:3-12. [DOI: 10.1016/j.berh.2008.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Shah MA, Shah AM, Krishnan E. Poor outcomes after acute myocardial infarction in systemic lupus erythematosus. J Rheumatol 2009; 36:570-5. [PMID: 19208594 DOI: 10.3899/jrheum.080373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is associated with higher risk for acute myocardial infarction (MI); but the post-infarction outcomes among these patients are unknown. Our objective was to compare post-acute MI outcomes in patients with SLE to those with diabetes mellitus (DM) and those with neither condition. METHODS We analyzed the risk for prolonged hospitalization and in-hospital mortality following acute MI in the 1993-2002 US Nationwide Inpatient Sample. We used logistic regression to calculate odds ratios (OR) for prolonged hospitalization and Cox proportional hazards regression to calculate hazard ratios (HR) for in-hospital mortality with and without adjustments for age, sex, race/ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and presence of congestive heart failure. RESULTS For the SLE (n = 2192), DM (n = 236,016), SLE/DM (n = 474), and control (n = 667,956) groups, the in-hospital mortality rates were 8.3%, 6.2%, 5.7%, and 4.7%, respectively. In multivariable regression models, all 3 disease groups had higher adverse outcome risk compared to control. The OR for prolonged hospitalization was higher for those with SLE (OR 1.48, 95% CI 1.32-1.79) compared to those with DM (OR 1.30, 95% CI 1.28-1.32). A similar pattern was observed for hazard ratios for in-hospital mortality as well (SLE, HR 1.65, 95% CI 1.33-2.04; DM, HR 1.11, 95% CI 1.07-1.14). CONCLUSION SLE, like DM, increases risk of poor outcomes after acute MI. These patients need to be triaged appropriately for aggressive care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mansi A Shah
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
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Abstract
Patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are at increased risk of mortality compared with the general population. Evidence suggests that this increased mortality can largely be attributed to increased cardiovascular (CV) death. In a retrospective study of an inception cohort of RA patients in Rochester, MN, we found that patients with RA were at increased risk of CV death, ischemic heart disease, and heart failure compared with age- and sex-matched community controls. In addition, when we examined coronary artery tissue from autopsied RA patients, we observed increased evidence of inflammation and an increased proportion of unstable plaques. We also investigated the contribution of traditional and RA-specific risk factors to this increased risk of CV morbidity and mortality. Although traditional CV disease risk factors were found to contribute to the increased risk of mortality in RA patients, they did not fully explain the increased CV mortality observed in RA. Instead, increased inflammation associated with RA appears to contribute substantially to the increased CV mortality. Together with other studies that have demonstrated similar associations between RA and CV mortality, these data suggest that more aggressive management of inflammation in RA may lead to significant improvements in outcomes for patients with RA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sherine E Gabriel
- Department of Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota 55905, USA.
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Sokka T, Envalds M, Pincus T. Treatment of rheumatoid arthritis: a global perspective on the use of antirheumatic drugs. Mod Rheumatol 2008; 18:228-39. [PMID: 18437286 PMCID: PMC2668379 DOI: 10.1007/s10165-008-0056-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2007] [Accepted: 01/29/2008] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Modern therapy for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is based on knowledge of the severity of the natural history of the disease. RA patients are approached with early and aggressive treatment strategies, methotrexate as an anchor drug, biological targeted therapies in those with inadequate response to methotrexate, and “tight control,” aiming for remission and low disease activity according to quantitative monitoring. This chapter presents a rationale for current treatment strategies for RA with antirheumatic drugs, a review of published reports concerning treatments in clinical cohorts outside of clinical trials, and current treatments at 61 sites in 21 countries in the QUEST-RA database.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuulikki Sokka
- Arkisto/Tutkijat, Jyväskylä Central Hospital, Jyvaskyla, Finland.
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Pincus T, Yazici Y, Bergman M, Maclean R, Harrington T. A proposed continuous quality improvement approach to assessment and management of patients with rheumatoid arthritis without formal joint counts, based on quantitative routine assessment of patient index data (RAPID) scores on a multidimensional health assessment questionnaire (MDHAQ). Best Pract Res Clin Rheumatol 2007; 21:789-804. [PMID: 17678835 DOI: 10.1016/j.berh.2007.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
A continuous quality improvement approach is proposed for the assessment and management of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) based on scores on a one-page patient self-report multidimensional health assessment questionnaire (MDHAQ), without formal joint counts. The approach includes five simple steps before the patient is seen by the physician: (1) an MDHAQ is completed by every patient at every visit; (2) scores are calculated for patient function, pain, and global estimate, with options for a self-report joint count and other scales; (3) scores are entered on flow sheets with data from prior visits, which might also include laboratory and medication information; (4) scores are compiled into an index termed Routine Assessment of Patient Index Data (RAPID), analogous to a Disease Activity Score (DAS); (5) RAPID scores are classified to guide treatment decisions. RAPID 3 includes the three patient-reported outcome (PRO) measures in the RA Core Data Set - physical function, pain, and global estimate. RAPID 4 adds a self-report joint count, and RAPID 5, a physician global estimate. RAPID 3 can be calculated in about 10 seconds, RAPID 4 in about 19 seconds, and RAPID 5 in about 20 seconds. RAPID 3, RAPID 4, and RAPID 5 give similar results to distinguish active from control treatments in RA clinical trials, at levels similar to American College of Rheumatology or DAS improvement criteria, and are all correlated significantly with DAS28 (rho=0.62-0.64, P<0.001). A proposed classification of RAPID scores, analogous to four DAS28 categories, includes: 'near remission' (0-1), 'low severity' (1.01-2), 'moderate severity' (2.01-4), and 'high severity' (>4). RAPID scoring is feasible in standard clinical care to support continuous quality improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theodore Pincus
- NYU Hospital for Joint Diseases, 301 East 17 Street, New York, NY 10003, USA.
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Pincus T, Yazici Y, Sokka T. Quantitative measures of rheumatic diseases for clinical research versus standard clinical care: differences, advantages and limitations. Best Pract Res Clin Rheumatol 2007; 21:601-28. [PMID: 17678823 DOI: 10.1016/j.berh.2007.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
No single measure can serve as a 'gold standard' for the diagnosis, prognosis, and monitoring of patients with rheumatic diseases. Therefore, pooled indices of several measures have been developed for patient assessment. Quantitative measures and indices in rheumatology have been used primarily in clinical trials and other clinical research, but not in standard clinical care. Indeed, most standard rheumatology care is conducted without quantitative data other than laboratory tests, which often are uninformative. Some measures used in research have been adapted for standard care. The classical 66/68-joint count with graded scoring for swelling, tenderness, pain on motion, limited motion, and deformity has been shortened for clinical care to a 28-joint count, scored only as 'Yes' or 'No' for swelling or tenderness. Patient questionnaires designed for clinical research can be lengthy, with complex scoring, so that information is not available to help guide clinical decisions. By contrast, patient questionnaires designed for standard care, such as a simple one-page, multi-dimensional health assessment questionnaire (MDHAQ), are short, save time, are easily scored, and are useful in all rheumatic diseases to monitor patient status at each visit and document changes over long periods. More attention to measures for use in standard care could improve care and outcomes for patients with rheumatic diseases.
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Pincus T, Sokka T. Can a Multi-Dimensional Health Assessment Questionnaire (MDHAQ) and Routine Assessment of Patient Index Data (RAPID) scores be informative in patients with all rheumatic diseases? Best Pract Res Clin Rheumatol 2007; 21:733-53. [PMID: 17678833 DOI: 10.1016/j.berh.2007.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
A multidimensional health assessment questionnaire (MDHAQ) is useful in standard care of patients with all rheumatic diseases in a busy clinical setting. The MDHAQ was adapted from the classical health assessment questionnaire (HAQ) for feasibility in standard clinical care, with reduction of the number of activities from 20 to 10, visual analog scales (VAS) as 21 circles rather than 10 cm lines, availability of all core data set patient self-report measures and scoring templates on the front side, and a review of systems symptom checklist and review of recent medical history on the reverse side of a single page. Scoring templates are also available for routine assessment of patient index data (RAPID) scores, based on a composite of the three patient reported outcome (PRO) measures from the core data set included on the HAQ and MDHAQ, physical function pain, and patient estimate of global status. Flow sheets illustrating use of the MDHAQ in standard clinical care of patients with various rheumatic diseases, including psoriatic arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, ankylosing spondylitis, gout, scleroderma, vasculitis, fibromyalgia, inflammatory bowel disease arthritis, Behcet's syndrome, and familial Mediterranean fever, are presented to illustrate use of this simple questionnaire to add to clinical decisions and document patient courses and outcomes in standard clinical care of patients with all rheumatic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theodore Pincus
- NYU-Hospital for Joint Diseases, 301 East 17 Street, New York, NY 10003, USA.
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Buchbinder R, March L, Lassere M, Briggs AM, Portek I, Reid C, Meehan A, Henderson L, Wengier L, van den Haak R. Effect of treatment with biological agents for arthritis in Australia: the Australian Rheumatology Association Database. Intern Med J 2007; 37:591-600. [PMID: 17573817 DOI: 10.1111/j.1445-5994.2007.01431.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Australian Rheumatology Association Database (ARAD), a voluntary national registry, has been established to collect health information from Australian patients with inflammatory arthritis for the purpose of monitoring the benefits and safety of new treatments, in particular the biological disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (bDMARDs). These drugs are proving to be very effective, yet little is known of their long-term effectiveness or safety. Patient registries that systematically gather data on large cohorts of unselected patients are increasingly believed to be an essential means of answering questions of the long-term effectiveness and safety of new drugs. The aim of this report is to describe the role, development and structure of ARAD and provide some preliminary data. METHODS As of 1 August 2006, 563 patients with rheumatoid arthritis prescribed a bDMARD have been enrolled in ARAD, involving 105 rheumatologists from across Australia. RESULTS The data collected will enable examination of multiple domains of patient responses to bDMARDs, including quality of life, health-care utilization, incidence of adverse events and the effects of therapy switching. CONCLUSION Evidence-based information about the long-term outcome of bDMARD therapy is essential for clinicians, consumers, policy-makers, drug development companies and approval agencies, to enable better care and improved outcomes for patients with inflammatory arthritis.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Buchbinder
- Monash Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Cabrini Hospital, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
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Pincus T, Sokka T. Quantitative measures to assess patients with rheumatic diseases: 2006 update. Rheum Dis Clin North Am 2007; 32 Suppl 1:29-36. [PMID: 17410699 DOI: 10.1016/s0889-857x(07)70006-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Theodore Pincus
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, 203 Oxford House, Box 5, Nashville, TN 37232-4500, USA
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Deal CL, Hooker R, Harrington T, Birnbaum N, Hogan P, Bouchery E, Klein-Gitelman M, Barr W. The United States rheumatology workforce: supply and demand, 2005-2025. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2007; 56:722-9. [PMID: 17328042 DOI: 10.1002/art.22437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 144] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To develop and apply a model that allows prediction of current and future supply and demand for rheumatology services in the US. METHODS A supply model was developed using the age and sex distribution of current physicians, retirement and mortality rates, the number of fellowship slots and fill rates, and practice patterns of rheumatologists. A Markov projection model was used to project needs in 5-year increments from 2005 to 2025. RESULTS The number of rheumatologists for adult patients in the US in 2005 is 4,946. Male and female rheumatologists are equally distributed up to age 44; above age 44, men predominate. The percent of women in adult rheumatology is projected to increase from 30.2% in 2005 to 43.6% in 2025. The mean number of visits per rheumatologist per year is 3,758 for male rheumatologists and 2,800 for female rheumatologists. Assuming rheumatology supply and demand are in equilibrium in 2005, the demand for rheumatologists in 2025 is projected to exceed supply by 2,576 adult and 33 pediatric rheumatologists. The primary factors in the excess demand are an aging population which will increase the number of people with rheumatic disorders, growth in the Gross Domestic Product, and flat rheumatology supply due to fixed numbers entering the workforce and to retirements. The productivity of younger rheumatologists and women, who will make up a greater percentage of the future workforce, may also have important effects on supply. Unknown effects that could influence these projections include technology advances, more efficient practice methods, changes in insurance reimbursements, and shifting lifestyles. Current data suggest that the pediatric rheumatology workforce is experiencing a substantial excess of demand versus supply. CONCLUSION Based on assessment of supply and demand under current scenarios, the demand for rheumatologists is expected to exceed supply in the coming decades. Strategies for the profession to adapt to this changing health care landscape include increasing the number of fellows each year, utilizing physician assistants and nurse practitioners in greater numbers, and improving practice efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chad L Deal
- Department of Rheumatology, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio 44195, USA.
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¿Cómo se evalúa una respuesta inadecuada en un paciente con artritis reumatoide en la práctica clínica? ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2007; 3:38-44. [DOI: 10.1016/s1699-258x(07)73597-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2006] [Accepted: 12/04/2006] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
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Stier-Jarmer M, Liman W, Stucki G, Braun J. Strukturen der akutstationären rheumatologischen Versorgung. Z Rheumatol 2006; 65:747-60. [PMID: 16482478 DOI: 10.1007/s00393-005-0015-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2005] [Accepted: 09/21/2005] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Severe rheumatological systemic diseases demand high levels of diagnostic and therapeutic measures and differentiated and complex methods of care. In Germany, specialised rheumatologists and, if hospitalisation is indicated, specialised rheumatology hospitals or departments are responsible for the treatment of these patients. Early rehabilitation procedures, provided by a multidisciplinary therapeutic team, are an important component of the treatment concept in these facilities. Early rehabilitation is integrated into the patients acute medical treatment plan, with careful consideration of the patients current health problems and functional capabilities (body functions and structures, activities and participation as outlined in the ICF), thereby providing a comprehensive, integrated therapy strategy which has long been acknowledged as necessary for the successful treatment of rheumatoid patients. This article presents an analysis concerning the development, organisation, facilities and processes of the acute medical in-patient care for patients with rheumatological disorders in Germany. In total there are 4188 beds in 88 acute hospitals exclusively available for rheumatological in-patients in Germany at present. There is at least one facility specialised in rheumatology in every German federal state. The density of care in the German federal states varies between 131.8 beds per 1 million inhabitants in Bremen and 9 beds per 1 million inhabitants in Saxony. In most regions of Germany the acute in-patient care for patients with rheumatological disorders is provided by hospitals specialised in rheumatology. Rheumatological patients are treated in a variety of hospital departments. In the year 2000 only 47% of the inpatients with rheumatoid arthritis, 56% of those with ankylosing spondylitis and 28% of those with systemic lupus erythematosus were treated in a ward specialising in rheumatology. Rheumatoid arthritis, with a total share of nearly 30%, was the most frequently treated rheumatic disease in wards specialising in rheumatology, followed by soft tissue disorders (e.g. fibromyalgia), diseases with systemic involvement of connective tissue and inflammatory spinal disorders such as ankylosing spondylitis.
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Van Doornum S, Jennings GLR, Wicks IP. Reducing the cardiovascular disease burden in rheumatoid arthritis. Med J Aust 2006; 184:287-90. [PMID: 16548834 DOI: 10.5694/j.1326-5377.2006.tb00239.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2005] [Accepted: 12/12/2005] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis is associated with an increase in cardiovascular mortality and morbidity; this increase is independent of traditional cardiovascular risk factors. Effective treatment of rheumatoid arthritis with disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs appears to reduce cardiovascular mortality. The optimal approach to prevention of cardiovascular disease in rheumatoid arthritis is evolving, but will include a combination of: cardiovascular risk factor screening and management; effective and sustained control of joint and systemic inflammation; and a high index of suspicion for silent cardiac disease.
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Fautrel B, Woronoff-Lemsi MC, Ethgen M, Fein E, Monnet P, Sibilia J, Wendling D. Impact of medical practices on the costs of management of rheumatoid arthritis by anti-TNFalpha biological therapy in France. Joint Bone Spine 2006; 72:550-6. [PMID: 15996504 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbspin.2004.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2004] [Accepted: 12/20/2004] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED When the anti-TNFalpha drugs first came onto the market, their high price was the subject of much debate. Moreover, we must add the costs associated with their administration to the purchase price. Variations in medical practices may be the source of substantial variations in these costs. OBJECTIVE To compare the costs involved with the use of infliximab and etanercept in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and to study the impact of variations in medical practices on them. METHODS A pragmatic cost minimization analysis was conducted from the payer's perspective to compare the costs of administration, that is, the direct medical costs, of the first two available anti-TNFalpha agents: infliximab and etanercept. Records of 60 patients from three university hospital rheumatology departments were reviewed retrospectively for a 52-week period. This analysis considered the following costs: purchase costs for the drugs and for any co-prescribed disease-modifying drugs, inpatient or outpatient administration, medical follow-up and the transportation costs associated with treatment that were reimbursed by the French health insurance system. Costs that did not differ between the two products were excluded (work-up for inclusion, etc.). RESULTS Data were collected for 58 patients, 30 treated with infliximab and 28 with etanercept. Patients' mean age was 52 years; 81% were women. RA had first developed on average 15 years earlier; the disease was positive for rheumatoid factors in 68% of cases and erosive in 93%. The total average annual cost of administration did not differ for infliximab and etanercept: 19,469 and 19,619 , respectively (P=0.56). The mean costs of administration nonetheless varied considerably between the three hospital centers: from 16,566 to 24,313 for infliximab (P<0.0001) and from 16,069 to 24,383 for etanercept (P<0.0001). CONCLUSION The financial burden of biological treatments for RA is strongly influenced by the substantial heterogeneity in medical practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Fautrel
- Department of Rheumatology, Groupe Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, 83 boulevard de l'Hôpital, 75651 Paris cedex 13, France.
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Abstract
In the next 12 months, 7500 Canadians and 75,000 Americans will be afflicted with the onset of rheumatoid arthritis. Little is known about the health care use of patients with early RA. Nonetheless, rheumatologists and outcomes researchers strongly endorse the need for early diagnosis and treatment of this population. This article reviews trends and impediments to early referral of new-onset arthritis patients. The slow growth of early arthritis clinics is summarized in a survey that characterizes 23 early arthritis programs in North America. Also, several screening tools and models to capture these early-onset arthritis patients are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- John J Cush
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas, 8200 Walnut Hill Lane, Dallas, TX 75231-4496, USA.
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50
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Abstract
Longitudinal and observational studies have provided important information on the course of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), clinical outcomes, and prognostic markers. In terms of clinical effectiveness of drugs used in RA, the results of such projects can be used to complement those of randomized studies. If well designed and conducted, inception cohorts are the most robust types of observational studies, reflect the most complete spectrum of disease, and provide the most reliable prognostic markers for the management of this chronic condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Young
- City Hospital, Waverly Road, St. Albans, Herts AL3 5PN, UK.
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