Autoimmunity

Headaches in lupus patients not linked to disease activity study says
Headache is common among patients with system lupus erythematosus according to new research published in Arthritis & Rheumatism, a journal of the American College of Rheumatology (ACR). The study found that 18% of lupus patients experienced headache at the onset of their disease with that number increasing to 58% after 10 years. While headaches were linked to a lower health-related quality of life, these episodes resolved over time independent of treatment specific to lupus and were not associated with disease activity or specific lupus autoantibodies. Eurekalert!

New STELARA data show inhibition of joint destruction in active psoriatic arthritis
New findings from two integrated Phase 3 Janssen Research & Development, LLC (Janssen)-sponsored studies showed treatment with STELARA® (ustekinumab) resulted in significantly greater inhibition of structural damage in patients with active psoriatic arthritis compared with placebo. Eurekalert!

Timely, effective treatment of rheumatoid arthritis reduces disability 2 years out
Delaying treatment for rheumatoid arthritis could greatly increase the likelihood that patients will suffer joint damage and experience disability two years out, according to a new study from Hospital for Special Surgery in New York City. Eurekalert!

Psoriasis patients should be screened for CVD The researchers found that patients with psoriasis have a higher risk of developing heart failure than the general population. The risk of heart failure went up as the severity of psoriasis increased. Dr Khalid said:

"Our findings underline the importance of regular evaluation and treatment of cardiovascular risk factors in patients with psoriasis. Chronic inflammation is a characteristic feature of both psoriasis and heart failure, and may play a significant role in their development and progression." MedicalXpress