Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast ACR on Air

AI is already transforming medicine, but does that mean every new capability will translate into better patient care? As ACR Convergence 2026 continues this week, we spotlight Dr. Mujeeb Basit's talk, "AI Development in Clinical Care: Promises and Pitfalls," which took place Saturday, November 7. In this episode, we explore what it takes to integrate AI into clinical practice safely, effectively, and responsibly, how these technologies may fundamentally change the way we care for patients, and what happens when AI begins to outperform physicians at tasks they have spent years mastering. As AI reshapes the future of medicine, we ask a bigger question: Will we need to rethink what it means to be a physician? 

Our coverage of ACR Convergence 2026 continues with a conversation about moving beyond "Treat to Target" toward "Treat to Thrive." While measuring disease activity, adjusting medications, and aiming for remission are essential parts of rheumatoid arthritis care, what happens when inflammation is under control but patients still don't feel well? In this episode, we explore why controlling inflammation isn't always enough, what it truly means for patients to thrive, and how patients and healthcare providers can strengthen their partnership to improve both disease outcomes and quality of life. Join us as we discuss a more holistic, collaborative approach to integrative arthritis care that puts the whole person at the center

Partnership Tool: Treat to TARGET, Treat to Thrive - Shared Resource Drive

As part of our special coverage of ACR Convergence 2026, we're joined by Christian Lood from the University of Washington to explore a surprising role mitochondrion may play in myositis. Long known as the powerhouse of the cell, mitochondria may do more than simply respond to inflammation. When damaged, they can release contents that trigger the immune system and potentially fuel inflammation. We discuss how mitochondria escape from injured muscle, their potential as markers of disease activity, and whether understanding these processes could lead to new treatments for juvenile dermatomyositis (JDM). Christian will present his talk, "Dysfunctional Mitochondria in Myositis-Driven Inflammation," on Sunday, November 8, at ACR Convergence 2026 

What is the "Direct Specialty Clinical Care Model" and is it a viable option for clinical rheumatologists in today's medical ecosphere? Dr. Diana Girnita, founder and CEO of Rheumatologists OnCall, joins us to speak on what motivated her to pioneer this clinical approach, how she empowers her patients by putting the cost of care directly in their hands, her thoughts on the financial viability of this model in the near future and how she manages the daily responsibilities facing every clinician, like: dealing with insurance companies, billing, managing referrals, telemedicine and more!  

Join us as we explore what's new and exciting at ACR Convergence, the premier gathering for rheumatology science and innovation. Dr. Gregory Gardner, Chair of the Annual Meeting Planning Committee, shares a preview of this year's meeting, including emerging treatments like cellular therapy, hands-on workshops, and the science that could change clinical practice. We discuss the sessions you won't want to miss and offer tips for making the most of your time at the meeting, both inside and outside the conference room

When is Raynaud's phenomenon truly a disease? Dr. Robert Spiera joins us to discuss the key clinical clues, the value of patient photos and nail fold capillary findings, and how to approach a positive ANA without a defined connective tissue disease. We review treatment options from warming strategies and medication review to calcium channel blockers, PDE-5 inhibitors, prostaglandins, and digital sympathectomy and highlight the finding that demands urgent attention: a painful, persistently blanched digit. Most importantly, we discuss the balance between treating serious vascular disease and avoiding unnecessary medicalization of a common phenomenon. 

Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) is difficult to diagnose and treat. At first, the disease could look like a variety of other disorders, such as fibrosis or autoimmunity. Once a diagnosis is made, a decision on how aggressively to treat it can mean the difference between irreversible lung damage or overly impacting your patient's quality of life. We caught up with Dr. Robert Hallowell, a Pulmonary and Critical Care physician at the Massachusetts General Hospital and Director of the Interstitial Lung Disease Program at the Pulmonary Ambulatory Clinic. Dr. Hallowell tells us how he evaluates ILD 

September is Rheumatic Disease Awareness Month (RDAM), and today we're sharing the story of Deborah Talbot, an occupational therapist from the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and her daughter, Molly, who was diagnosed with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) at the age of 12 years old. When an ankle injury turned out to be far more, Molly endured months of pain, swelling, repeated evaluations and the uncertainty of not understanding why she wasn't getting better. This is the story of how a family came together to fight through pain, discover a disease, find remission that would remain for years and start advocacy for those without the resources they were blessed with, emerging triumphant in the face of overwhelming adversity 

Rheumatoid arthritis may begin years before the first swollen joint appears, with autoantibodies circulating long before a clinical diagnosis is made. In this episode, we explore what happens during this critical preclinical phase and whether RA can be prevented before it starts. Dr. Kevin Dean, director of the Autoimmune Disease Prevention Center at the University of Colorado Anschutz, joins us to discuss what a positive CCP antibody really means, where RA may originate, lessons from the STOP-RA trial, whether we should screen people at risk, and how clinicians should counsel patients who test positive for CCP antibodies. 

The new clinical guidelines for juvenile and adult axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA), developed collaboratively by the American College of Rheumatology (ACR), the Spondylitis Association of America (SAA), and the Spondyloarthritis Research and Treatment Network (SPARTAN), mark an important evolution in the management of this complex disease. In this episode, Drs. Liron Caplan and Matthew Stoll discuss what's changed, why it matters, and how these recommendations can guide everyday clinical practice—from the first-ever juvenile axSpA guideline and the unified approach to radiographic and non-radiographic disease, to practical decisions around MRI use, first-line therapies, biologic selection, treatment failure, and physical activity. 

2026 Update of the American College of Rheumatology/Spondylitis Association of America/Spondyloarthritis Research and Treatment Network Recommendations for the Treatment of Axial Spondyloarthritis in Adults and Children/Adolescents

In this episode, Dr. Randy Q. Cron discusses hyperinflammation and Macrophage Activation Syndrome (MAS), one of the most serious complications of Still's disease. Because MAS can mimic infection, sepsis, malignancy, or a disease flare, early recognition is critical—and treatment often must begin before every diagnostic criterion is met. We explore the clinical patterns and laboratory findings that matter most, how to interpret ferritin, and how to make timely decisions when multiple diagnoses may exist at once. 

What if some patients who never quite fit their diagnosis actually have an underlying genetic disorder? In this episode, we explore Haploinsufficiency of A20 (HA20), a condition first described less than a decade ago that is already reshaping our understanding of autoinflammation, autoimmunity, and immune dysregulation. How many patients in our clinics have a genetic diagnosis we've never thought to consider? Join us as we discuss this emerging disease and its clinical implications with Dr. Daniella M. Schwartz. 

Could chronic inflammatory calcium pyrophosphate deposition disease (CPPD) be hiding in plain sight? In this episode, we explore why CPPD may be far more common than previously recognized, how it can masquerade as conditions such as refractory inflammatory arthritis, polymyalgia rheumatica, and erosive osteoarthritis, and why it is so often overlooked in clinical practice. We discuss the growing role of musculoskeletal ultrasound in diagnosis and disease management, the structural damage associated with chronic CPPD, and where the field may be headed as researchers pursue more effective treatment strategies. 

The 2026 ACR Guidelines for Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) are here, and lead author Dr. Karen Onel joins us to unpack the key updates shaping pediatric rheumatology care. From a biologics-first approach in systemic JIA to more individualized treatment pathways for non-systemic disease, the new recommendations emphasize earlier intervention, faster treatment tailoring, and risk-based decision-making. Dr. Onel also discusses the guidelines' broader focus on mental health, physical activity, rehabilitation, and the challenges of growing up with a chronic illness. More than an update to treatment algorithms, these guidelines reflect a fundamental shift in philosophy—one that puts the whole child, not just the diagnosis, at the center of care. 

In the future, can autoimmune disease become curable? A groundbreaking study from Germany suggests there may be a pathway in some cases. Patients with severe, treatment-refractory lupus who received CD19 CAR-T cell therapy have remained in drug-free remission for up to five years without ongoing immunosuppression. In this episode, we discuss how these findings are shifting the conversation from disease control to the possibility of cure, and what they could mean for lupus, inflammatory myopathies, systemic sclerosis, vasculitis, rheumatoid arthritis, and autoimmune diseases more broadly. We also explore CAR-T therapy, immune resets, regulatory T cells, relapse risk, and the future of rheumatology with Dr. Georg Schett. 

Fifty years ago, pediatric rheumatic disease was often marked by disability, limited treatment options, and low expectations for long-term outcomes. In 1976, a small group of clinicians and scientists helped launch a new understanding of immune-mediated disease in children and laid the foundation for modern pediatric rheumatology. In this episode, we explore how the field evolved from managing chronic disability to expecting remission, transforming both treatment and quality of life for children. We also examine the scientific breakthroughs, models of care, and remaining challenges that continue to shape the future of pediatric rheumatology. 

Today, we discuss a new guidance statement from the American College of Rheumatology aimed at bringing much-needed structure to the evaluation and management of patients with VEXAS. This episode breaks down key recommendations, including who should be tested, the best approaches to diagnostic evaluation, how to interpret bone marrow findings, and emerging strategies for treatment—offering clarity in a diagnosis that, until recently, was marked by uncertainty. 

Private rheumatology practice is contracting under multi-directional pressure: shrinking margins, escalating prior authorizations, tightening Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBM) and payer restrictions on drug access, and instability across core revenue streams. At the same time, demand is rising, wait times are surging, and workforce shortages are intensifying—driving clinician burnout and retention challenges.  

This episode is about The American College of Rheumatology's response, in expanding its leadership role in advocacy, health policy reform, and workforce development to help private practices move from survival to sustainable growth. 

Pericardial Disease is couched between two medical disciplines: Cardiology and Rheumatology, and those with these conditions visit medical professionals viewing their treatment through one lens or the other. This episode addresses the shifting reality that pericarditis and myocarditis are no longer separate silos but rather takes the broader view of inflammatory heart disease. We'll examine how rheumatologists should be thinking about pericardial disease, when we should get involved, how diagnosis and imaging fit in, plus the evolution of treatment. 

For years, myositis treatment has relied on broad immune suppression with drugs like steroids, methotrexate, and rituximab—but what if we could target the disease more precisely? Inflammatory myopathies are not a single condition, but a group of biologically distinct syndromes with different clinical features and immune pathways. As our understanding evolves, so does the potential for more personalized, targeted therapies. In this episode, we're joined by Dr. Julie J. Paik to discuss how this shift could reshape the future of myositis treatment. 

In this episode, we discuss the growing workforce challenges in rheumatology with nurse practitioner Chris Estes. Chris shares how he entered the field, the training he received early in his career, and how he developed expertise in musculoskeletal ultrasound. The conversation explores how advanced practice providers (APPs) can help address rheumatology workforce shortages by expanding access to care—seeing new patients, managing follow-ups, and working both collaboratively and independently within a practice. Chris also discusses training pathways for new APPs, common misconceptions practices may have, and how investing in APP development may be an important strategy for the future of rheumatology care. 

In this episode, we explore the paradox of gout—one of the most biologically understood and treatable diseases in medicine, yet still among the most poorly controlled chronic conditions in practice. With effective therapies readily available, why do patients continue to cycle through painful flares, start and stop medications, and return to clinics and hospitals in a pattern that feels like a recurring failure? We unpack the complex interplay between biology, patient behavior, medication adherence, and health system barriers, asking whether the problem lies in the disease itself or in how care is delivered. As new treatments emerge, we also question whether innovation alone can solve the problem—or whether lasting change requires fixing the systems struggling to fully use the tools already at hand. 

In this episode, we explore Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS) with Dr. Yu (Ray) Zuo, beginning with a clear, clinically grounded explanation before diving into the personal and scientific journey that drew him to this notoriously complex disease. Along the way, Dr. Zuo shares a case that forever changed how he understands APS, then takes us inside his latest Arthritis & Rheumatology study, where machine learning reveals hidden patterns that may reshape how we think about patients and risk. The conversation moves from bedside to bench and back again, tackling what AI can—and can't—do for rheumatology, where APS research is headed next, and what early investigators need to know to build impactful careers. 

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. William Harvey, the newly appointed President of the American College of Rheumatology and a dedicated volunteer of nearly 20 years. Dr. Harvey shares what it's like stepping into the presidency, the key priorities shaping the year ahead, and how the ACR is approaching strategy, advocacy, partnerships, and leadership during this pivotal moment for the field. 

In this episode, our expert guest challenges a common assumption by explaining why the T-score—despite being central to osteoporosis diagnosis—is surprisingly easy to misinterpret. He walks us through how to read a DEXA scan like a detective, highlighting subtle clues that can dramatically improve diagnostic accuracy for your patients. Once osteoporosis is identified, the conversation turns to clinical decision-making: how to choose between anabolic agents, denosumab, and bisphosphonates, and why that choice depends on thoughtful risk stratification and patient-specific comorbidities. We also dive into the often-overlooked importance of sequencing osteoporosis medications correctly, including a compelling discussion on why starting with an anabolic agent may offer greater long-term benefits than reserving it as a last-line option. 

In this episode, we explore malignant atrophic papulosis—also known as Degos disease—an extraordinarily rare microvascular disorder so uncommon that most clinicians will never see a single case. For decades, medical literature labeled it "uniformly fatal." Our guest, Dr. Lee Shapiro, encountered this reality when he began treating a rapidly deteriorating 16-year-old boy with no clear treatment path. Driven by urgency, he reached out to experts across the country, slowly piecing together clues that ultimately led to the first successful treatment of systemic Degos disease. Today, Dr. Shapiro is a leading advocate for patients, connecting a global community, promoting early recognition, and working tirelessly to expand access to life-saving therapies. 

Learn more at The Degos Disease Foundation 

Once the prescription is written, pharmacists like Katherine McCarthy step in—often becoming the steady guide patients rely on throughout their health journey. Specializing in the care of people with rheumatic diseases, Katherine tackles insurance barriers, supports patients through biosimilar transitions, and helps demystify complex medication regimens. Her work underscores just how pivotal pharmacists are in driving better outcomes in rheumatology. 

This episode explores the evolving intersection of rheumatology and cognitive science, beginning with what initially drew researchers to investigate cognitive symptoms in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). We discuss the prevalence and nature of patient-reported cognitive concerns, how these subjective complaints compare with objective neurocognitive testing, and what current studies reveal underlying inflammatory and neurobiological mechanisms. The conversation examines the cognitive effects of commonly used RA therapies, as well as modifiable contributors—including physical activity, sleep apnea, diet, and stress—that clinicians should assess in routine practice. We also consider when formal neuropsychological evaluation is warranted, how to counsel patients seeking to prevent cognitive decline, and the most pressing unanswered questions that remain in the field. 

In this episode, we explore what happens when clinicians look beyond the prescription pad and begin listening more deeply to what their patients have lost. This isn't a conversation about rejecting medications but about expanding the tools we use to foster healing. We discuss the concept of disenfranchised grief—the often-unspoken losses that accompany chronic illness—the intricate links between depression and inflammation, and the transformative power of helping patients heal in ways that no pill alone can achieve. 

This episode was sponsored by Pfizer

In this episode, we shine a light on Calcium Pyrophosphate Deposition Disease (CPPD)—a condition that has been hiding in plain sight for decades. Despite being common, painful, and prevalent in clinics everywhere, CPPD has long been misdiagnosed, undertreated, and under-researched. Our guest has been working to change that by uncovering the genetic and molecular underpinnings of the disease and exploring new ways to improve patient outcomes. We discuss what's new and what's next for CPPD, why it may be the most common inflammatory arthritis after age 60, how it overlaps with rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis, and what emerging studies of biologics are revealing about its biology and untapped therapeutic potential. 

This episode was sponsored by Pfizer

In this episode, we explore RheumCode, a groundbreaking new initiative from the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) designed to build a common digital language for rheumatology. RheumCode aims to ensure that data means the same thing wherever it lives—whether in an EHR, a clinic, or a registry—enabling systems to seamlessly communicate and make better use of the medical information already being documented. We discussed how RheumCode began, the collaboration behind its development, and its potential to transform the way clinicians practice; researchers study disease, and patients experience their care. 

This episode was sponsored by Pfizer

Welcome to ACR Convergence 2025 in Chicago! Here, Dr. Hausmann delivers a quick update on what our podcasts will cover while the meeting is in session. Don't forget to tune in to ACR on Air and ACR Journals on Air each morning, starting this Saturday, to catch up on the latest in Rheumatology

In this week's episode, we dive into the ins and outs of the rheumatology musculoskeletal ultrasound certification process—what it takes to log 150 scans, meet CME requirements, and ultimately sit for the exam. We're joined by Dr. Liudmila Kastsianok, who shares her insights on how ultrasound is reshaping clinical practice, from enhancing diagnostic accuracy to opening new avenues in research. We also explore how incorporating ultrasound into routine care can deepen the physician-patient relationship and improve communication. Finally, Dr. Kastsianok offers her perspective on where the field is headed and why ultrasound is becoming an essential skill for the next generation of rheumatologists. 

In this episode, we preview ACR Convergence 2025 in Chicago this October with Dr. Greg Gardner, Chair of the Annual Meeting Planning Committee (AMPC). We'll explore key topics like emerging therapies, AI in rheumatology, and highlights such as the Practice Innovation Summit, Ultrasound Course, and Fellows In Training (FiT) Program. Dr. Gardner also discusses highlights such as, CAR T-cell therapies, new non-renal lupus guidelines, a Live Journals Club focused on Big Data and why this year's meeting is earlier on the calendar. Tune in for a sneak peek at what's to come! 

In recognition of Rheumatic Disease Awareness Month this September, this episode explores the critical yet often underutilized role of exercise in the management of rheumatic diseases. We examine how structured movement—ranging from step counts to resistance training—can significantly alter the trajectory of pain, function, and overall disease progression. Our discussion offers practical strategies for helping patients integrate physical activity into their daily routines, with a focus on starting gradually and maintaining consistency. We also address the heightened cardiovascular risks associated with rheumatoid arthritis and how targeted exercise interventions can mitigate these risks. Finally, we delve into fall prevention tactics and the use of technology and interdisciplinary care teams to set achievable, patient-centered goals that physical therapists can effectively support. 

It's been over two decades since the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) last released comprehensive treatment guidelines for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and much has changed. In this episode, we're joined by Dr. Lisa Sammaritano to discuss the forthcoming 2025 ACR Guidelines for the Treatment of SLE. These updated recommendations reflect a significant evolution in our approach to lupus care, from the growing range of therapeutic options to a stronger emphasis on patient engagement and minimizing steroid toxicity. We'll dive into how the guidelines tailor treatment across diverse organ systems and patient populations, and what clinicians need to know to effectively incorporate these updates into their practice. 

In this episode, we're joined by Karen Durrant, founder of the Autoinflammatory Alliance, who shares her powerful journey from a determined parent seeking a diagnosis for her child to the leader of a global patient advocacy movement. What began as a personal quest has evolved into an international network supporting thousands affected by autoinflammatory diseases. Karen discusses how her collaboration with Dr. Fatma Dedeoglu, a leading pediatric rheumatologist, helped bridge the gap between patient experience and medical research—ultimately contributing to the development of international clinical guidelines that are transforming care for rare disease patients worldwide. 

Autoinflammatory Alliance

Systemic Autoinflammatory Disease (SAID) Support

Autoinflammatory Alliance: Coparison Chart

In this episode, we're joined by myositis expert Dr. Brian Feldman to explore Juvenile Dermatomyositis (JDM). We cover its clinical presentation, key diagnostic clues, and the workup including labs and imaging. We examine the MDA5 variant, known triggers, and non-pharmacologic management strategies. Dr. Feldman also addresses the high-stakes scenario of JDM-associated rapidly progressive interstitial lung disease, offering insights into pathophysiology, imaging, and aggressive early treatment. The episode concludes with a look at the field's questions that remain. 

In this episode, we're joined by Dr. Dana DiRenzo to explore groundbreaking developments in the treatment of Sjögren's Disease. For the first time, therapies like BAFF blockade, CD40 ligand inhibitors, and FcRn antagonists appear poised to change the course of the disease—moving beyond symptom management to potential disease modification. We delve into the underlying science, current clinical trials, and tackle the big question: how early is early enough to begin treatment? Dr. DiRenzo also shares her expert perspective on holistic symptom management through what she calls the "4 Pillars of Health," offering practical strategies for improving quality of life for those living with Sjögren's. 

In this episode, we take the leap from the structured world of rheumatology fellowship into the dynamic, often unpredictable landscape of private practice. Dr. J. Thomas Berry shares his personal journey, offering an honest and insightful look at the transition. From the practical differences between academic and private settings to the business learning curve, patient care dynamics, and how he stays clinically sharp, this conversation is a must-listen for fellows preparing to enter independent practice 

In this episode, we examine Behcet's Disease—a rare, multisystem inflammatory disorder that continues to challenge traditional frameworks of autoimmunity and vasculitis. Dr. Johannes Nowatzky joins us to discuss the disease's hallmark features, including recurrent mucocutaneous ulcers and ocular involvement, as well as its geographic distribution and genetic associations. We explore the diagnostic difficulties posed by its heterogeneous presentation and symptom overlap with other conditions, and the rationale behind individualized, often multidisciplinary treatment strategies. This conversation offers valuable insights into a condition that remains as enigmatic as it is clinically significant. 

In this episode, we deliver a critical update on the rapidly evolving legislative landscape impacting rheumatology. We explore the intense policy battles shaping the future of the field, including steep Medicare reimbursement cuts threatening the survival of many practices. We also examine the ongoing challenges posed by pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) and the growing uncertainty around research funding. Joining us is a special guest, Lennie Shewmaker McDaniel, JD, who brings a firsthand perspective from Capitol Hill, shedding light on what it truly takes to advocate for our patients and the profession in today's complex policy environment. 

In this episode, we examine the evaluation of pain in patients with chronic inflammatory arthritis, with particular attention to spondyloarthritis and its clinical overlap with fibromyalgia. We explore why some patients continue to report persistent pain despite well-controlled inflammation, and the importance of distinguishing between active inflammatory disease and centralized pain syndromes such as fibromyalgia. Join us as we unpack the diagnostic nuances that can significantly impact patient care. 

This episode explores the evolving role of GLP-1 agonists in rheumatology, highlighting their potential to influence weight, inflammation, and overall disease activity. Our guest expert unpacks how adipose tissue contributes to systemic inflammation and why managing body weight is crucial in the treatment of rheumatic diseases. We delve into the underlying science, real-world clinical applications, and the exciting future of incorporating GLP-1 therapies into comprehensive rheumatologic care—offering fresh insight into a therapeutic class with game-changing potential. 

In this episode, we dive into the evolving role of AI in rheumatology—exploring how it's already reshaping workflows, enhancing diagnostic accuracy, optimizing treatment selection, and helping us monitor patients remotely. We tackle big questions around bias, control over critical data and whether we're truly ready to let AI serve as our assistants—or even gatekeepers. From addressing workforce shortages to revolutionizing medical research and education, we examine both the promise and the pitfalls of this powerful technology, and why caution must guide its integration into our clinical decisions.

In this episode, we dive into the complexities of IgG4-Related Disease (IgG4-RD), a mysterious and multi-organ condition that continues to challenge both patients and physicians. Back in January 2024, Dr. John Stone introduced us to the emerging landscape of treatments for IgG4-RD, and today, Dr. Matthew Baker joins us to provide an exciting update. With new therapies on the horizon, we explore the role of B and T cell pathogenesis, the limitations of traditional steroid treatments, and the off-label use of rituximab. We also take a closer look at the promising results from the "Mitigate Trial," which offers hope for future strategies in managing this enigmatic disease. Join us as we discuss the evolving treatment landscape and what lies ahead for those affected by IgG4-RD. 

In this episode, we dive into a fascinating and often overlooked aspect of rheumatology: complications from diabetes that can mimic rheumatic diseases. Dr. Schiopu kicks off the discussion by shedding light on Diabetic Myonecrosis, a painful muscle condition that can be easily mistaken for other rheumatic disorders. We then explore Scleroderma, a skin-thickening muscle disorder that resembles systemic sclerosis (SSC) but has distinct underlying mechanisms. Dr. Schiopu shares invaluable insights on how to approach complex rheumatology consults in the hospital, emphasizing the importance of thoughtful diagnostic reasoning. She also discusses why sometimes the best approach in medicine is to avoid unnecessary tests and treatments, prioritizing patient care and accuracy in diagnosis. 

In this episode, we dive into the cutting-edge advancements presented by Dr. Christopher T. Ritchlin at Convergence 2024, where he shed light on the promising research set to transform the field of rheumatology. Join us as we break down key insights from one of the field's leading experts, exploring the future of precision medicine, the role of TRBV9 cells in axSpA, the impact of sex differences on PsA, and the potential of urinary biomarkers in Lupus Nephritis. Tune in for a fascinating discussion on what's next in rheumatology. 

In this episode, we explore a potential paradigm shift in the treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis. For years, pharmacologic interventions have been the cornerstone of management, but now a groundbreaking approach is emerging. John Tesser, principal investigator in a pioneering study, discusses the use of an implantable device that stimulates the vagus nerve. By tapping into the body's nervous system to reduce inflammation, this novel approach offers a promising alternative to traditional drug treatments. Tune in to learn how this innovative technology could reshape the future of Rheumatoid Arthritis care. 

In this episode, we explore the unique challenges and considerations in treating older adults, focusing on the need for a different approach to care due to polypharmacy and multimorbidity. We delve into the complexities of managing these patients, emphasizing the importance of understanding frailty—how to assess, prevent, and address it. The discussion also covers late-onset rheumatoid arthritis, its distinction from rheumatoid arthritis, and why it often goes underdiagnosed and undertreated. We introduce the 5 M's framework; a geriatric care model that helps clinicians focus on what truly matters to older adults. Additionally, we address the role of palliative care in rheumatology, highlighting its importance beyond end-of-life care, and provide guidance on shared decision-making with older adults and their families to ensure patient-centered outcomes.