Rheumatology
- Mediastinal granuloma due to histoplasmosis in a patient on infliximab
Immunosuppressive drugs can predispose to invasive fungal infection.
- Do patients on biologic drugs for rheumatic disease need PCP prophylaxis?
Consider it in those with granulomatosis with polyangiitis or pulmonary disease, or those on high-dose steroids.
- Giant cell arteritis: An updated review of an old disease
Glucocorticoids, the mainstay of treatment, should be started as soon as the disease is suspected.
- The tests that we order define us
In practice we balance the inputs from Watson, “Dr. Google,” our experience, and the specific data from the patient.
- Laboratory tests in rheumatology: A rational approach
Negative results are not always reassuring, and false-positive results pose risks.
- Are anti-TNF drugs safe for pregnant women with inflammatory bowel disease?
Active IBD poses a greater risk than continuing drug therapy.
- A physician’s response to observational studies of opioid prescribing
Not long ago, we were told we needed to do better at relieving pain.
- Pancreatitis: The great masquerader?
Pancreatitis, panniculitis, and polyarthritis syndrome mimics rheumatologic disease, often presenting without abdominal pain.
- The bias of word choice and the interpretation of laboratory tests
Words matter. Calling ALT and AST “liver function tests” can lead to premature diagnosis of liver disease.
- How well do we understand calcium and vitamin D?
I do not believe we truly understand the ideal amount of dietary and supplemental calcium or vitamin D for a given patient.