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November 11, 2022
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Top in rheumatology: Regulatory T-cell changes; birth control in rheumatic disease

In a recent study, sex-chromosomes and hormone changes during adolescence were found to drive regulatory T-cell changes in patients. Researchers said the study results could help shed light on the pathogenesis of autoimmune disease.

“Investigating the relationship between sex hormones and inflammation is important for understanding the cause of autoinflammatory diseases,” George A. Robinson, PhD, of University College London, and colleagues wrote. It was the top story in rheumatology last week.

The AMA advised the FDA to make birth control pills OTC drugs instead of prescription. Source: Adobe Stock
Following the overturn of Roe v. Wade, communication regarding effective and safe birth control in certain patients, including those with lupus and other rheumatic disease, has become immensely important. Source: Adobe Stock

Another top story discussed the importance of physicians talking openly with their patients with rheumatic disease about birth control, particularly after recent changes in federal abortion protections.

Read these and more top stories in rheumatology below:

Chromosomes, hormone changes in cis-, transgender patients drive regulatory T-cell changes

Sex-chromosomes and rapid changes in sex hormones during adolescence may drive changes in regulatory T-cell frequency and function, according to data published in The Lancet Rheumatology. Read more.

Overcoming physician ‘discomfort’: What rheumatologists need to know about birth control

Following the Supreme Court’s decision in June overturning Roe v. Wade, communication regarding effective and safe birth control in certain patients, including those with lupus and other rheumatic disease, has become immensely important. Read more.

Nearly two-thirds of patients with rheumatoid arthritis have at least one sleep disorder

Nearly two-thirds of patients with rheumatoid arthritis meet the criteria for at least one sleep disorder, according to data published in Arthritis Care & Research. Read more.

Patients disabled with RA have 23% higher CVD risk than those considered employable

Patients with rheumatoid arthritis who are on Social Security Disability Insurance have a 23% higher risk for cardiovascular disease compared with those considered employable, according to data published in Arthritis Research & Therapy. Read more.

Supply chain disruptions forced 60% of rheumatologists to substitute medications

Supply chain disruptions have forced nearly two-thirds of rheumatologists to substitute medications for their patients, according to survey results published by Cardinal Health. Read more.