Cindy Lampner, MSLIS

Rheumatologists reviewed the outcomes of patients with rheumatoid arthritis who used hand exercise to improve function and subsequently improved daily living skills.

Physicians interviewed by Rheumatology Advisor recommend using the Clinical Disease Activity Index and to treat-to-target by measuring clinical response and adapting therapy rapidly for patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

Researchers found data that showed in patients with rheumatoid arthritis, the delta-tetrahydrocannabinol found in medical cannabis is likely to contribute to an increase in heart rate in patients who are susceptible to atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease. Medical cannabis was also not found to provide therapeutic effects when comparing it with a combination of cannabinoid type 1 antagonist, fatty acid amide hydrolase inhibitor, and nonpsychotropic cannabidiol.

Rheumatology Advisor interviewed Dr Sofat, who suggests that better control of periodontal disease might improve outcomes in rheumatoid arthritis.

Investigators found evidence that both aerobic and resistance training lowers insulin resistance, but further studies are needed to determine the specific effects in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

Data suggest that patients in remission with baricitinib 4 mg daily dose who have taken this medication for at least 1 year may be able to attempt baricitinib dose-tapering while continuing their methotrexate regimen.

Many components of diet have been implicated as possible risk factors for RA, with varying degrees of evidence.