Friday 5 from Rheumatology Network - June 25

This week, the Friday 5 from Rheumatology Network highlights COVID-19 vaccine adherence measures, the latest guidelines for managing COVID-19 in pediatric patients with rheumatic disease, and an innovative serum protein biomarker that appears to differentiate between patients with psoriatic arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

1. Serum Protein Biomarker Panel Differentiates Between Psoriatic Arthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis

In patients with early inflammatory arthritis, a serum protein biomarker panel was proven effective in separating patients with psoriatic arthritis from those with rheumatoid arthritis.

2. Gene Therapy Improves Pain Management and Disease Progression for Osteoarthritis

Treatment of the osteoarthritis has been at a standstill, with short-term pain management with steroid injections considered standard care. However, a promising new therapeutic approach may help to sustain pain relief over time.

3. SMS-Based Video Improves Vaccination Uncertainty in Patients With Rheumatic Disease

An SMS-based, interactive, educational video greatly increased information related to COVID-19 vaccines, confidence in vaccine safety, and an inclination to receive the vaccine.

4. Guidelines for the Management of Pediatric Rheumatic Disease During the COVID-19 Pandemic

The American College of Rheumatology has updated its treatment guidelines for the management of pediatric rheumatic disease during the COVID-19 pandemic. The guideline includes 33 final guidance recommendations, 8 of which received moderate-to-high task force consensus.

5. Upadacitinib Effectively Treats Patients With Psoriatic Arthritis and Axial Involvement

Upadacitinib (UPA) effectively treated patients with psoriatic arthritis (PsA) and axial involvement, a group that is historically more likely to have higher disease burden and more quality-of-life impairments than patients without axial involvement.