Rheumatology Network's Top 5: February 19, 2021

1: Rheumatoid Arthritis Quiz: COVID-19 Vaccination for Patients With RA and Other Rheumatic Diseases

The American College of Rheumatology (ACR) has recently issued conditional recommendations on the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination for rheumatology patients with musculoskeletal, inflammatory, and autoimmune diseases. The recommendations are focused on the 2 mRNA COVID-19 vaccines currently available in the United States and are based on experience using immunomodulatory medications with other vaccines. The recommendations will be reviewed as additional COVID-19 vaccines are approved for use and more information on vaccine response specific to rheumatic disease patients emerges. Test your knowledge of the special considerations recommended for COVID-19 vaccination of patients with rheumatic diseases.

2: How COVID-19 Has Altered Assessment and Treatment of Osteoporosis

A study published in Osteoporosis International focused on the changes that have occurred over the course of the pandemic for patients with osteoporosis and found that there have been delays in dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scanning, problems with medication supply, a decrease in face-to-face consultations, and reductions in parenteral medication delivery.

3: American College of Rheumatology Releases COVID-19 Vaccine Clinical Guidance

The American College of Rheumatology (ACR) has published guidance regarding coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination for patients with rheumatic diseases, with emphasis placed on prioritizing immunocompromised patients to receive the vaccine.

4: Apremilast Tablets Approved by FDA as a Generic for Psoriatic Arthritis

The drug is commonly used to treat diseases such as psoriatic arthritis, Behcet’s Syndrome, and plaque psoriasis.

5: Benjamin Nowell, PhD: The Importance of Patient-Reported Outcomes and Experiences

Rheumatology Network sat down for an interview with Benjamin Nowell, PhD, in partnership with CreakyJoints, to discuss his 2 most recent studies. Nowell is the Director of Patient-Centered Research at CreakyJoints, part of the Global Healthy Living Foundation.