Rheumatology experts Joan Bathon and Jill Buyon discuss upcoming abstracts in the field. Topics include the use of AI, steroid use, hydroxychloroquine dosing, preventing RA in lupus, pregnancy in lupus, and methotrexate dosing.
Machine learning shows promise in providing a less time-consuming alternative for assessing RA progression
Minimizing steroid use in lupus treatment is crucial for younger patients and those at risk for cardiovascular complications
Deep dives
Artificial Intelligence in Rheumatoid Arthritis Diagnosis
In a recent study, Canadian researchers used machine learning to interpret hand X-rays of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients. The machine learning model successfully identified joints with high accuracy, but had more difficulty distinguishing erosions and joint space narrowing. Nevertheless, this technology shows promise in providing a less time-consuming alternative to the Sharp Vanderharty score, which is currently used for assessing RA progression.
Reducing Steroid Use in Lupus Treatment
Studies presented at the Convergence conference highlighted the importance of reducing steroid use in lupus treatment. Lower doses of steroids, combined with more rapid tapering, showed similar efficacy to higher doses but with fewer side effects. Additionally, combining the steroid-sparing agent valculizumab with mycophenolate allowed for lower steroid doses while maintaining efficacy. This trend of minimizing steroid use is crucial, particularly for younger patients and those at risk for cardiovascular complications.
Delaying the Onset of Rheumatoid Arthritis
The Epiparate trial explored the use of abatacept in individuals with ACBA or rheumatoid factor positivity but no clinical synovitis. While the trial did not prevent the development of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), abatacept delayed the progression and evolution of classifiable RA in these patients. This offers a potential strategy for postponing the onset of RA with targeted treatments, allowing for appropriate management of symptoms during the early stages of the disease.
As the year winds down and a new year is about to begin, looking back sometimes forces us to look ahead. Last month’s Convergence 2023 offered an opportunity to do just that: Look Ahead! We’ve invited the two speakers from the “The Clinical Year in Preview” session, Joan Bathon, MD and Jill Buyon, MD to discuss with us the latest abstracts that are expected to make the biggest waves in the coming year, as they relate to Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE). We discuss a variety of abstracts that include the use of AI, steroid use, hydroxychloroquine dosing, preventing the development of RA in lupus, pregnancy in lupus dosing for methotrexate and much, much more.
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