Rheumatology
Reviews
Laboratory tests in rheumatology: A rational approach
Negative results are not always reassuring, and false-positive results pose risks.
From the Editor
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.
1-Minute Consult
Are anti-TNF drugs safe for pregnant women with inflammatory bowel disease?
Active IBD poses a greater risk than continuing drug therapy.
From the Editor
A physician’s response to observational studies of opioid prescribing
Not long ago, we were told we needed to do better at relieving pain.
The Clinical Picture
Pancreatitis: The great masquerader?
Pancreatitis, panniculitis, and polyarthritis syndrome mimics rheumatologic disease, often presenting without abdominal pain.
From the Editor
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.
Reviews
Optimizing calcium and vitamin D intake through diet and supplements
Set modest calcium targets, maximize dietary intake, and make up the deficit with calcium citrate.
From the Editor
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.
Current Drug Therapy
Hydroxychloroquine: An old drug with new relevance
This antimalarial drug is now approved to treat discoid lupus, systemic lupus erythematosus, and rheumatoid arthritis.
From the Editor
The algorithm less traveled
At Bellevue, the RPR was a routine test; at the University of Pennsylvania, not so much—it all depends on context.