ACR on Air

In this episode, we're joined by myositis expert Dr. Brian Feldman to explore Juvenile Dermatomyositis (JDM). We cover its clinical presentation , key diagnostic clues, and the workup including labs and imaging. We examine the MDA5 variant, known triggers, and non-pharmacologic management strategies. Dr. Feldman also addresses the high-stakes scenario of JDM-associated rapidly progressive intersti...

In this episode, we're joined by Dr. Dana DiRenzo to explore groundbreaking developments in the treatment of Sj ö gren's Disease. For the first time, therapies like BAFF blockade, CD40 ligand inhibitors, and FcRn antagonists appear poised to change the course of the disease—moving beyond symptom management to potential disease modification. We delve into the underlying science, current clinical tr...

In this episode, we take the leap from the structured world of rheumatology fellowship into the dynamic, often unpredictable landscape of private practice. Dr. J. Thomas Berry shares his personal journey, offering an honest and insightful look at the transition. From the practical differences between academic and private settings to the business learning curve, patient care dynamics, and how he st...

In this episode, we examine Behcet's Disease—a rare, multisystem inflammatory disorder that continues to challenge traditional frameworks of autoimmunity and vasculitis. Dr. Johannes Nowatzky joins us to discuss the disease's hallmark features, including recurrent mucocutaneous ulcers and ocular involvement, as well as its geographic distribution and genetic associations. We explore the diagnostic...

In this episode, we deliver a critical update on the rapidly evolving legislative landscape impacting rheumatology. We explore the intense policy battles shaping the future of the field, including steep Medicare reimbursement cuts threatening the survival of many practices. We also examine the ongoing challenges posed by pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) and the growing uncertainty around research...

In this episode, we examine the evaluation of pain in patients with chronic inflammatory arthritis, with particular attention to spondyloarthritis and its clinical overlap with fibromyalgia. We explore why some patients continue to report persistent pain despite well-controlled inflammation, and the importance of distinguishing between active inflammatory disease and centralized pain syndromes suc...

This episode explores the evolving role of GLP-1 agonists in rheumatology, highlighting their potential to influence weight, inflammation, and overall disease activity. Our guest expert unpacks how adipose tissue contributes to systemic inflammation and why managing body weight is crucial in the treatment of rheumatic diseases. We delve into the underlying science, real-world clinical applications...

In this episode, we dive into the evolving role of AI in rheumatology—exploring how it's already reshaping workflows, enhancing diagnostic accuracy, optimizing treatment selection, and helping us monitor patients remotely. We tackle big questions around bias, control over critical data and whether we're truly ready to let AI serve as our assistants—or even gatekeepers. From addressing workforce sh...

In this episode, we dive into the complexities of IgG4-Related Disease (IgG4-RD), a mysterious and multi-organ condition that continues to challenge both patients and physicians. Back in January 2024, Dr. John Stone introduced us to the emerging landscape of treatments for IgG4-RD , and today, Dr. Matthew Baker joins us  to provide an exciting update. With new therapies on the horizon, we explore...

In this episode, we dive into a fascinating and often overlooked aspect of rheumatology: complications from diabetes that can mimic rheumatic diseases. Dr. Schiopu kicks off the discussion by shedding light on Diabetic Myonecrosis, a painful muscle condition that can be easily mistaken for other rheumatic disorders. We then explore Scleroderma , a skin-thickening muscle disorder that resembles sys...

In this episode, we dive into the cutting-edge advancements presented by Dr. Christopher T. Ritchlin at Convergence 2024, where he shed light on the promising research set to transform the field of rheumatology. Join us as we break down key insights from one of the field's leading experts, exploring the future of precision medicine, the role of TRBV9 cells in axSpA, the impact of sex differences o...

In this episode, we explore a potential paradigm shift in the treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis. For years, pharmacologic interventions have been the cornerstone of management, but now a groundbreaking approach is emerging . John Tesser, principal investigator in a pioneering study , discusses the use of an implantable device that stimulates the vagus nerve. By tapping into the body's nervous syst...

In this episode, we explore the unique challenges and considerations in treating older adults, focusing on the need for a different approach to care due to polypharmacy and multimorbidity. We delve into the complexities of managing these patients, emphasizing the importance of understanding frailty—how to assess, prevent, and address it. The discussion also covers late-onset rheumatoid arthritis,...

If you're a healthcare provider or a storytelling enthusiast, you'll enjoy this episode featuring Dr. Jason Liebowitz. A practicing rheumatologist and accomplished writer, Dr. Liebowitz discusses his journey toward becoming a physician-writer, how writing helps him process his experiences, and the art of storytelling in medicine, especially for a wider audience in today's complex healthcare landsc...

Happy New Year, Dear Listener! We're back for 2025 and have with us Dr. Carol Langford, President of The American College of Rheumatology (ACR) and Dr. Adam Goode, President of The Assoc iation of Rheumatology Professionals (ARP) as our guests. In this episode you'll get an in-depth look at the collaborative efforts driving the ACR and ARP , direct from our leadership!   Dr. Langford and Dr. Goode...

Dr. Pui Y. Lee, a pediatric rheumatologist , leading researcher and clinician , joins us today to lend his insights on Deficiency of Adenosine Deaminase 2 or "DADA 2". What is this disease and how common is it? What is the underlying pathophysiology, the role of genetic screening and the most useful diagnostic tools? We'll also cover treatment options for DADA 2 , the prognosis most patients face...

As 2024 ends, the ACR's Government Affairs Committee looks ahead to the 119th Congress to address key issues in rheumatology. For our second annual legislative and policy update, we're joined by Dr. Lennie McDaniel, head of ACR's Washington DC office, and Dr. Christina Downey, Chair of the Government Affairs Committee, to share insights from their ACR Convergence 2024 session. Topics include Medic...

We are proud to present the highly anticipated " ACR 2024   Lupus Nephritis Guideline " with First Author and frequent guest, Dr. Lisa R. Sammaritano . A decade in the making, we reflect on the significant advancements in available therapies, the guideline's holistic approach to managing Lupus Nephritis (LN) across all age groups, and include insights on combination therapies, minimizing glucocort...

As we continue to highlight sessions from Convergence 2024, we came upon this talk we think you should not miss: Emerging Threats in Rheumatology: Chronic Chikungunya Arthritis and Syphilis Mimicking Rheumatic Diseases . Session presenters, Dr. Jose Kennedy Amaral Pereira and Dr. Daniela DiMarco help us e xplore the world of emerging threats in rheumatology: specifically, Chikungunya Arthritis and...

Can Artificial Intelligence (AI) ever replace the clinician or the researcher? Today, we explore the promises and pitfalls of this transformative technology and its implications for rheumatology. From assistance in diagnosis and patient care to its role in research and academic writing, our two guests Dr. Amanda Nelson and Dr. Bella Mehta will walk us through how our field is utilizing AI today an...

When should we choose rituximab over cyclophosphamide? What role can avacopan play as an adjunct therapy? When is plasma exchange a viable option ? How can we effectively navigate steroid tapering? These are just a few of the critical questions we'll explore with our next guest, Dr. Tanaz Kermani, founder and director of the Vasculitis Program at UCLA, a dedicated clinician and active researcher....

Dr. Sara McCoy, rheumatologist and Sjögren's specialist , a " Sjögrensologist " , joins us this week for an in-depth look at Sjögren's Disease. We address how the systemic nature of this disease can affect everything from the lungs to the kidneys, why traditional treatments may not always work, why a patient's antibody profile may hold the key to their disease severity, the use of new biomarkers,...

Our annual preview episode for Convergence is here, and we have AMPC (Annual Meeting Planning Committee) Chair, Dr. Greg Gardner as our guest! Dr. Gardner walks us through this meeting's focus and strategies , which are designed to make ACR24 even more engaging, deliver ing cutting edge science, more networking opportunities , improved educational experiences and new initiatives to better the live...

What are Inborn Errors of Immunity (IEI) and what should be done if you suspect them? Dr. Bharat Kumar, clinical rheumatologist and a llergy immunologist, joins us to lend his insights on what they are, how to identify them in our patients, the challenges in diagnosing them, and how they manifest in a clinical setting . Dr. Kumar also explains how IEI's are caused, their overlap with rheumatic dis...

This week, the ACR is kicking off Rheumatic Disease Awareness Month (RDAM), and we've got Dr. Shah who introduces the concept of self-management, which can help improve the control of rheumatic disease beyond medication and empower our patients to take active roles in the management of them. Dr. Shah also spends time highlighting resources available for self-management and addresses how the ACR is...