EULAR scientific program highlights spectrum of translational research

Also on Wednesday, a session will tackle the relationship between psychological distress and pain in immune-mediated disease. “Pain is the major symptom of rheumatic diseases, and the role of the psyche remains poorly understood,” Dr. Landewé said. “But we know one thing for sure: There is an association, and speakers from outside the field of rheumatology will help explain.”

Attendees at this bench-to-bedside session will learn how distress appears to exacerbate arthritis pain and how managing psychological stress can help optimize outcomes in arthritis pain. Experts also will describe research on integrated brain pathways in pain and distress, as well as risk factors for cognitive impairment in RA.
 

Thursday, June 14

On Thursday, a clinical science session on reproductive issues in rheumatology reflects the fundamental shift in outlook for many of these patients. “As care has improved in the past decades, reproductive matters have arisen,” said Dr. Dörner. “Especially in patients with systemic autoimmune diseases; these are often challenging. The session will address recent insights and practical approaches based on new scientific data.”

Topics in this session will include the use of estrogens and other hormonal therapies in patients with rheumatic disease, registry studies of rheumatologic conditions during pregnancy, and how clinicians can best discuss sexual concerns with their rheumatology patients.