Host: Darryl S. Chutka. M.D.; [@chutkaMD] Guest: Cornelia M. Weyand, M.D., Ph.D. Guest: Kenneth J. Warrington, M.D. Rheumatologic problems are some of the most common health conditions we see as primary care professionals. In many cases, taking months and sometimes years to properly diagnose, rheumatologic conditions can become frustrating for both the provider and the patient. There are a variety of new tests available to help us establish a diagnosis, as well as multiple new and effective treatment options. This episode is part of a seven-episode mini-series on Mayo Clinic Talks dedicated to rheumatologic health problems to aid in the recognition, diagnosis, and treatment for your patients. Please find these episodes where you listen to podcasts or on ce.mayo.edu. Polymyalgia rheumatica was first described in 1966 as a case report. It can have a wide range of symptoms and at times, can be challenging to diagnose. As with most rheumatologic disorders, the exact cause isn’t known. While there are no specific laboratory tests which establish a diagnosis, there are some that are very useful. One of the most important features of polymyalgia is its relationship with vasculitis and temporal arteritis. In this podcast, we’ll discuss polymyalgia rheumatica with rheumatologists Cornelia M. Weyand, M.D., Ph.D., and Kenneth J. Warrington, M.D., from the Mayo Clinic. We’ll review the typical presenting symptoms, how to establish a diagnosis, helpful laboratory tests and its management. Connect with the Mayo Clinic’s School of Continuous Professional Development online at https://ce.mayo.edu/ or on Twitter @MayoMedEd. Learn more about our Rheumatology Edition here: https://ce.mayo.edu/content/mayo-clinic-talks-rheumatology-edition 

Dr. Katie A. Young discusses the different tests available for assessing patients with chest pain, including the importance of resting ECG, the use of CT angiogram to evaluate coronary anatomy, potential complications of an invasive coronary angiogram, and other tests and considerations for assessing chest pain.

Dr. Alicia M. Hinze discusses Sjogren's Syndrome, an autoimmune disorder with symptoms of dry mouth and dry eyes. It can mimic other medical conditions and is often diagnosed late. Learn about the challenges in diagnosing and treating it, as well as the use of new tests and treatment options. Discover the overlap between Sjogren's Syndrome and inflammatory arthritis, and the importance of ruling out other causes. Treatment options include immunosuppressant medications, but there is an increased risk of lymphoma for patients.

Justin E. Juskewitch, M.D., Ph.D., a transfusion medicine expert at the Mayo Clinic, discusses the crucial role of blood donation. He reveals that over 4.5 million lives are saved annually through blood transfusions while only 5% of eligible donors participate. The conversation explores the challenges of donor eligibility, including health assessments and iron deficiencies. Juskewitch emphasizes the importance of primary care clinicians in advocating for donations and highlights community involvement, showcasing how collective action can strengthen the blood supply.

In this podcast, rheumatologist Vanessa L. Kronzer discusses rheumatoid arthritis (RA), including its clinical manifestations, challenges in diagnosis, and effective treatment and management options. Topics covered include risk factors, atypical presentations, use of x-rays for diagnosis, and management with drugs like methotrexate and TNF inhibitors. They also explore achieving remission and burnt out RA.

In this enlightening discussion, Dr. Evelyn A. Reynolds, a specialist in cervical cancer awareness and screening, sheds light on critical advancements in cervical cancer detection. She explains how HPV vaccination and early screening are reducing cancer cases. The podcast delves into the complexities of current screening guidelines, the link between HPV and cervical cancer, and the importance of individualized assessment. Dr. Reynolds also highlights global health initiatives aiming to eradicate cervical cancer by 2030, offering hope and insight into prevention strategies.

Dr. Ali A. Duarte Garcia is a rheumatology expert discussing the challenges of diagnosing systemic lupus erythematosus, often misidentified as other illnesses. He highlights its prevalence, especially among women and minorities, and identifies risk factors like UV exposure. The conversation covers essential early symptoms, distinctions between lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, and the latest advancements in treatment, including new biologics and the ongoing importance of hydroxychloroquine.

While historically there has been limited inclusion of racial and ethnic minorities in research studies and clinical trials, critical strides have been taken in medicine to increase representation to help address health disparities and inequities. Gaining diverse perspectives in research provides an opportunity to enhance our understanding of the unique challenges faced by different racial and ethnic groups and also helps dismantle biases and stereotypes.  On this episode of the RISE for Equity podcast, Kim M. Barbel Johnson, D.O., M.P.H., and Doug Murrell, JR, M.P.A. join host Nicole Nfonoyim-Hara to discuss the impacts of diversifying decentralized clinical trials, and the impacts of community engagement in healthcare. Guest: Dr. Kim M. Barbel Johnson is a community-centric, patient-focused Family Physician and Principal Research Investigator working in the Hematology and Oncology departments, at Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Florida. Douglas (Doug) Murrell works with Community Engagement department of Mayo Clinic’s Center for Clinical and Translational Science (CCATS) as the Operations Manager for the Community-Engaged Research Program. Learn more at https://mcpress.mayoclinic.org/rise-for-equity/

In this engaging discussion, Ashima Makol, M.B.B.S., a rheumatology specialist, and Matthew J. Koster, M.D., who focuses on rheumatologic conditions, tackle the complexities of diagnosing these often elusive disorders. They break down the significance of tests like rheumatoid factor and ANA, discussing when they're actually useful. The duo highlights the potential pitfalls of false positives and negatives, emphasizing the importance of correlating lab results with patient symptoms. They also touch on innovative treatment options emerging in the field.

Join rheumatologists Lynne S. Peterson, M.D., and Clement J. Michet JR, M.D., as they dive into the painful world of gout. Discover the tricky symptoms and cutting-edge diagnostic tests that can clarify this condition. They discuss effective management strategies and the importance of medication alongside dietary changes. Learn about recent treatment innovations, including the latest guidelines and emerging therapies. With patient education at the forefront, this conversation unveils the crucial aspects of living with and managing gout.