Top in rheumatology: Vaccine hesitancy, chloroquine‘s potential for cardiac toxicity

New insight into the top reasons for COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among underrepresented populations with rheumatic diseases was the top story in rheumatology last week.

Another top story cautioned rheumatologists of possible cardiac toxicity when prescribing hydroxychloroquine or chloroquine among high-risk patients with rheumatic disease.

Read these and more top stories in rheumatology below:

Fear of adverse events, rheumatic disease flare top reasons for COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy

In a survey of racial and ethnic minorities with rheumatic diseases in Alabama, the most common reasons cited for COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy were fear of adverse events and disease flare, according to data presented at ACR Convergence 2021. Read more.

Hydroxychloroquine prescribers 'should be vigilant' for potential cardiac toxicity

Rheumatologists who prescribe hydroxychloroquine or chloroquine should be aware of their potential cardiac toxicity, especially in high-risk patients with rheumatic disease, according to an American College of Rheumatology white paper. Read more.

‘Who do they call?’: Patient, provider education crucial for managing outpatient COVID-19

Pre- and post-exposure prophylaxis will be critical in managing outpatient COVID-19 infection in patients with immune-mediated conditions, according to speakers at ACR Convergence 2021. Read more.

‘Treat-to-target is key’: Allopurinol noninferior to febuxostat for gout when properly dosed

Allopurinol is noninferior to febuxostat for gout when dosed appropriately as part of a treat-to-target strategy, according to data presented at ACR Convergence 2021. Read more.

VIDEO: Biomarkers for RA-ILD may soon ‘be in the hands of clinicians’

Jeffrey A. Sparks, MD, MMSc, highlights a study from ACR Convergence 2021 that assessed biomarker predictors of rheumatoid arthritis-associated interstitial lung disease. Read more.