Emily C Somers

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This study looked at how hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) affects pregnancies in women with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and those with certain antibodies that increase the risk of complications. The findings show that HCQ can help reduce serious pregnancy problems, such as preeclampsia and preterm birth. Importantly, using HCQ at safe doses (up to 400 mg per day) does not seem to increase the risk of birth defects. Who this helps: This information benefits pregnant patients with SLE and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how involving young patients with scoliosis and their caregivers can improve research on exercise treatments for the condition. Researchers held a virtual session with 18 participants, aged 10 to 16, and found that 78% were open to joining a trial where they might receive either active treatment or be put on a waiting list for 6 months. They highlighted challenges like limited access to physical therapy (43%) and skepticism from doctors (57%), and noted that their main concerns were pain and discomfort from bracing. Who this helps: This benefits teenagers with scoliosis and their families by ensuring that their needs and preferences are considered in future treatment studies.

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This study examined a digital program called SELF, designed to help people with lupus better manage their condition. It found that nearly 80% of participants needed help with key management skills, and after using the program, almost 60% improved their skills and reported better interactions with their doctors and less fatigue. This is important because effective self-management can lead to better health outcomes for people living with lupus. Who this helps: Patients with lupus.

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This study looked at how changes in DNA methylation of the CD70 gene might relate to age in adults with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), a chronic autoimmune disease. Researchers found that adults with SLE had higher levels of CD70 methylation compared to healthy individuals, with a notable increase of 0.14 percentage points in methylation for each additional year of age. Additionally, Black individuals with SLE exhibited higher methylation levels compared to White individuals. This research is important because it highlights specific biological changes linked to age and race in lupus patients, which could inform better treatment strategies and understanding of the disease. Who this helps: This helps patients with lupus by providing insights that may lead to improved management and treatment options.

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This study looked at how antinuclear antibody (ANA) levels change over time in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and other related diseases. Researchers found that people with SLE were more likely to have positive ANA tests compared to those with other rheumatic diseases, with odds 2.10 times higher. Additionally, the strength of ANA levels was notably higher in SLE and rheumatic disease patients than in those without any rheumatic issues, but these levels decreased steadily over time, showing a decline of 0.001 to 0.004 log units each month. Who this helps: This helps patients with rheumatic diseases and their healthcare providers by providing insights into how disease progression may affect ANA levels.

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This study looked at how different types of fatty acids in the blood relate to symptoms in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), a chronic autoimmune disease. Researchers analyzed data from 418 patients and found that higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids, especially a type called DHA, were linked to better outcomes, with less pain and improved sleep quality. In contrast, certain other fats were linked to worse symptoms, highlighting the potential of changing dietary fat intake to help manage SLE. Who this helps: This benefits lupus patients by suggesting ways to potentially improve their symptoms through diet.

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This study examined the characteristics and outcomes of 600,000 hospitalized COVID-19 patients from 52 countries, looking at factors like age, sex, and existing health conditions. It found that older age significantly increased the risk of death, with older patients being nearly 30 times more likely to die compared to younger ones, and the overall death rate across countries averaged 21.5%. Understanding these factors helps hospitals prioritize care for the most vulnerable patients. Who this helps: This benefits doctors and healthcare providers in identifying and managing high-risk patients.

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This study reviewed how the Schroth method, a specific exercise treatment for scoliosis, is currently being researched. Seven studies were examined, revealing that only one followed the proper procedures for this type of therapy, which raises concerns about the reliability of the findings. The researchers emphasized the importance of adhering to established standards to ensure accurate and trustworthy results in future studies. Who this helps: This benefits patients with scoliosis and their healthcare providers, ensuring they have access to reliable treatment methods.

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This study looked at how not being able to afford medications affects people with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), a chronic illness. Researchers found that about 22% of the 462 participants couldn't afford their prescriptions in the past year, and those individuals reported higher disease activity and damage—indicating worse health—compared to those who could afford their medications. Specifically, for those who reported cost-related issues, disease activity scores were significantly higher, pointing to the importance of understanding and addressing financial barriers to improve health outcomes. Who this helps: This information is valuable for patients with SLE, their healthcare providers, and policy makers aiming to improve medical access.

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This study looked at the levels of a chemical called PBB-153 in people from Michigan and whether these levels are linked to autoimmune disorders, where the body’s immune system attacks its own tissues. Out of nearly 900 participants, about 13% of men and 21% of women reported having one or more autoimmune disorders, but the research found no clear connection between PBB-153 levels and having an autoimmune disorder overall. However, there were hints that higher PBB-153 levels might be linked to specific conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune issues, particularly in women, suggesting that more studies are needed to explore these possible connections. Who this helps: This helps patients with autoimmune disorders and health professionals seeking to understand environmental risk factors.

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This study looked at the impact of the drug tocilizumab on patients with severe COVID-19 who were on mechanical ventilation. Researchers found that those who received tocilizumab had a 45% lower chance of dying compared to those who did not receive the drug. Even though more patients on tocilizumab developed superinfections, the overall death rate within 28 days was similar between those with and without these infections. Who this helps: This helps patients in critical condition from COVID-19 and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how lupus patients and a comparison group manage their prescription medications, particularly related to access issues and the costs of medications. Researchers found that 21.7% of lupus patients skipped doses or took less medication to save money, compared to just 10.4% of those without lupus. The study highlights that lupus patients struggle significantly with medication costs, which can affect their health, and suggests that discussions about lower-cost options with doctors could help improve medication adherence. Who this helps: This helps lupus patients, their doctors, and healthcare providers focused on medication management.

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This study looked at how COVID-19 affected organ transplant recipients compared to non-transplant patients. Researchers found that the risk of death from severe COVID-19 was similar for both groups, but the transplant patients had a much higher chance of needing kidney treatment while hospitalized. Notably, those transplant patients who were treated with hydroxychloroquine faced a ten times higher risk of death, highlighting the need to reevaluate the use of this drug for them. Who this helps: This research benefits organ transplant patients and their doctors by providing important information on COVID-19 treatment options.

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This study looked at how common systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is in the U.S. by analyzing data from various national lupus registries. They found that SLE affects about 72.8 people per 100,000 each year, with women being significantly more affected than men—9 times more, in fact. Black women had the highest rates, at 230.9 per 100,000, while the total estimated number of people with SLE in the country was around 204,295. Who this helps: This research benefits patients, healthcare providers, and public health officials by providing clearer insights about SLE prevalence among different groups.

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This study looked at how common sleep disorders, like obstructive sleep apnea and insomnia, are in patients hospitalized with COVID-19 and whether these conditions affect their recovery. Among 572 patients, 20% had obstructive sleep apnea, but researchers found no clear link between sleep disorders and serious outcomes like needing a ventilator or dying. This matters because it suggests that having a sleep disorder may not worsen COVID-19 outcomes as previously thought. Who this helps: This helps doctors understand the impact of sleep disorders on COVID-19 patients.

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This study looked at how common myocarditis (inflammation of the heart) is in college athletes who recently had COVID-19. Out of 1,597 athletes tested, 37 (about 2.3%) were found to have myocarditis, with 9 having noticeable symptoms and 28 showing no symptoms. The researchers discovered that using cardiac MRI tests instead of just checking for symptoms alone significantly increased the detection rate of myocarditis, highlighting the importance of thorough testing for athletes returning to play. Who this helps: This research benefits athletes and doctors by providing insights necessary for ensuring safe participation in sports after COVID-19.

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This study looked at how many new cases of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) occur each year in the United States. Researchers analyzed data from 2002 to 2009 and found the annual rate to be about 5.1 new cases per 100,000 people, with the rate being much higher in women (8.7) than in men (1.2). Among women, black females had the highest rates at 15.9, while the overall estimate for new diagnoses in 2018 was around 14,263 people. Who this helps: This research helps doctors and healthcare providers better understand the incidence of lupus in different populations, which can improve diagnosis and treatment for patients.

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This study looked at how the intake of certain fatty acids, specifically omega-3 and omega-6, affects people with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Researchers found that for each increase in the omega-6 to omega-3 ratio, lupus activity scores increased by 0.3 points, while higher omega-3 intake resulted in significant improvements in reported sleep quality. This is important because it suggests that adjusting dietary fat intake could help improve the quality of life for people living with lupus. Who this helps: Patients with systemic lupus erythematosus.

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This study created guidelines to help manage reproductive health for people with rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMD). Researchers looked at various aspects including contraception, fertility treatments, and pregnancy-related health, resulting in 131 recommendations and 12 good practice statements to guide patient care. These guidelines emphasize the importance of safe contraceptive methods and having conversations with healthcare providers about reproductive health, which is crucial given the limited research specifically on RMD patients. Who this helps: This helps patients with rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases and their doctors.

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This study created guidelines to help people with rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (like arthritis) manage reproductive health, covering topics like contraception, fertility treatment, and pregnancy care. It includes 12 good practice statements and 131 specific recommendations based on a review of existing evidence, emphasizing safe contraception, pre-pregnancy counseling to plan for healthier pregnancies, and collaboration between healthcare providers. These guidelines are important because they support better decision-making for patients and their doctors, ensuring reproductive health care is tailored to the unique needs of those with these conditions. Who this helps: Patients with rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases.

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This study looked at how pregnancy affects women with autoimmune diseases (AID). It found that women with AID need careful planning and support before and during pregnancy to manage their health and medication effectively. For example, women should aim to get pregnant when their disease is stable to ensure better outcomes for both mother and baby. Who this helps: This helps women with autoimmune diseases, their doctors, and healthcare providers involved in maternal care.

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This study looked at how effective a drug called tocilizumab is for patients with severe COVID-19 who are on mechanical ventilation. Among the 154 patients studied, those who received tocilizumab had a 45% lower chance of dying compared to those who did not get the drug, although more patients on tocilizumab developed superinfections (54% vs. 26%). This matters because it suggests that tocilizumab may save lives even if it leads to more infections, highlighting the need for further research to confirm these results. Who this helps: This benefits patients with severe COVID-19 and healthcare providers involved in their treatment.

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This study looked at how many patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) were using prescription opioids compared to those without the disease. It found that 31% of SLE patients were using opioids, compared to just 8% of those without SLE. The study emphasizes the need for better pain management strategies for SLE patients, as long-term opioid use can lead to serious risks, and many patients are using them for over a year even when they aren't helping. Who this helps: This benefits patients with systemic lupus erythematosus and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how two blood tests, the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and C-reactive protein (CRP), can help doctors tell if a fever in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is due to an infection or a disease flare-up. Researchers found that when they considered the ratio of ESR to CRP, a higher ratio indicated that the fever was more likely caused by an SLE flare, with each unit increase in the ratio raising the likelihood by 17%. This finding is important because it can help healthcare providers make better decisions about treatment for SLE patients with fever. Who this helps: This benefits doctors and their patients who have systemic lupus erythematosus.

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This study looked at the presence of antinuclear antibodies (ANA) in children aged 9 to 17 in Mexico City, using two different testing methods. Out of 114 children, 15.8% tested positive for ANA using the traditional method, while only 9.6% were positive using a newer, multiplex method. The study found that the results from the two tests often disagreed, particularly with high-titer positives, suggesting that the traditional method may be better for detecting potential autoimmune issues. Who this helps: This helps doctors and healthcare providers better understand ANA testing in children, guiding them in diagnosing autoimmune conditions.

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This study looked at how autoimmune diseases can affect women’s ability to get pregnant and their reproductive health. It found that conditions like inflammation, certain medications, and the stress of managing a chronic illness can lead to infertility or menstrual problems. Understanding these issues is crucial for doctors to offer better support and treatment options to women facing these challenges. Who this helps: This helps women with autoimmune diseases who are trying to conceive.

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This study looked at how taking omega-3 supplements during pregnancy affected the likelihood of children developing eczema by the age of three. The results showed that children whose mothers took omega-3 supplements had a much higher chance of developing eczema: 42% for those who took EPA and 39% for those who took DHA, compared to just 11% for those whose mothers took a placebo. This is important because it challenges the idea that omega-3s are protective against allergies, suggesting they might actually increase eczema risk instead. Who this helps: This information is useful for expecting mothers and healthcare providers as they consider prenatal supplementation options.

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This study looked at how systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and related complications affect the placenta during pregnancy. Researchers examined placental tissue from 35 pregnancies, including cases of pre-eclampsia and lupus, and found that placentas from these groups had significantly more neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) compared to healthy pregnancies—specifically, 10 times more NETs in the SLE groups. This matters because the increased presence of NETs and corresponding damage in the placenta could lead to serious complications for both mothers and babies. Who this helps: This benefits pregnant individuals with lupus or pre-eclampsia, as well as their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how pregnancy affects women with autoimmune connective tissue diseases, which are illnesses where the body’s immune system attacks its own tissues. Researchers found that having active disease during pregnancy can lead to negative outcomes for both the mother and the baby, while planning conception during periods when the disease is inactive improves health for both. It is important for women with these conditions to manage their health and medication around pregnancy for better results. Who this helps: This benefits women with autoimmune connective tissue diseases and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how exposure to mercury affects immune function in women of reproductive age in the U.S. Researchers found that 16% of women tested were positive for antinuclear antibodies (ANA), which can indicate immune issues, and those with higher mercury levels in their hair and blood were significantly more likely to be ANA positive. Specifically, women with the highest mercury levels in hair were over 11 times more likely to test positively for high levels of ANA compared to those with the lowest levels. Who this helps: This information benefits women of reproductive age and healthcare providers monitoring autoimmune risks.

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This research focused on how autoimmune diseases, particularly those affecting women like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, change during menopause. The study found that while some symptoms improve, such as fewer flare-ups in lupus, other issues like joint pain in rheumatoid arthritis may become worse. This shift can lead to additional health problems, like osteoporosis and heart disease, which pose risks for women as they age. Who this helps: This helps women with autoimmune diseases and their healthcare providers.

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Researchers examined how common systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is among Arab and Chaldean Americans in southeastern Michigan. They found that SLE affects these groups at a rate of 7.6 new cases per 100,000 people and has a total prevalence of 62.6 cases per 100,000, which is more than twice the rate found in non-Arab and non-Chaldean White Americans. Additionally, Arab and Chaldean American women are particularly affected, with incidence rates 5 times higher and prevalence rates nearly 7.5 times higher than their male counterparts. Who this helps: This research benefits Arab and Chaldean American patients by highlighting their specific health needs.

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This study looked at how common systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is in southeastern Michigan, which has a diverse population of 2.4 million people. It found that around 5.5 people per 100,000 are diagnosed with SLE each year, and the overall number of people living with the condition is about 72.8 per 100,000. The study revealed that SLE is more common among black individuals—2.3 times higher than white individuals, and it particularly affects black women, with a prevalence of 1 in 537. This is significant because it highlights serious health disparities, especially in how early SLE is diagnosed and its impact on kidney health among different racial groups. Who this helps: This information benefits patients, doctors, and healthcare providers who are working to better understand and treat SLE, particularly in black communities.

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This study looked at whether having a baby increases the chance of developing autoimmune diseases that affect the joints and connective tissues in women, like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. The findings are mixed; some studies suggest pregnancy might lower the risk of these diseases, while others show little connection, particularly in the year after giving birth. It's important to understand this better because many women are affected by these diseases, and the results could inform how we care for them during and after pregnancy. Who this helps: This helps patients and their doctors in managing health during pregnancy and afterwards.

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This research looked at how certain environmental factors, hormones, and genetic traits work together to trigger lupus, an autoimmune disease. It found that agents that disrupt DNA methylation, including certain medications and stressors like smoking and UV light, can turn normal immune cells into those that attack the body. In genetic studies with mice, it was shown that only those with a genetic risk for lupus developed the disease after exposure to these environmental triggers. Who this helps: This helps patients at risk for lupus and their doctors understand how to better manage environmental risks.

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This study examined mercury levels in pregnant women, children, and seafood in Mexico City. Researchers found that pregnant women's average mercury levels were 3.4 μg/L, while in their newborns' cord blood, it was 4.7 μg/L. Significant amounts of mercury were found in seafood, with many types exceeding safe limits, leading to higher exposure levels in pregnant women and children compared to those in the U.S. and Canada. Who this helps: This research benefits pregnant women, children, health professionals, and policymakers focused on reducing mercury exposure.

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This study looked at patients who have both systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and blood cancers (haematological malignancies). Out of 45 patients with both conditions, 64% developed their blood cancer at least a year after being diagnosed with SLE, while 36% had their cancer before or at the same time. Those who developed blood cancer after SLE had worse outcomes, particularly with diffuse large B cell lymphoma, where only four out of eleven patients achieved lasting remission. Who this helps: This research helps patients with SLE and their doctors by providing insight into the timing and treatment outcomes of blood cancers in these patients.

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This study looked at how children born to mothers with a condition called systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and specific antibodies related to it performed in school. They found that 25% of these children needed special educational services, and this was often linked to their mothers having a history of antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) and the presence of certain autoantibodies. This is important because it shows a clear connection between maternal health conditions and the learning abilities of their children, suggesting that interventions may be needed early on for these kids. Who this helps: This helps children born to mothers with lupus, as well as their families and educators.

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This study looked at how having a parent with lupus or rheumatoid arthritis affects the chances of their children developing these diseases. Among over 3.5 million families in Denmark, they found that girls had a 14.1 times higher risk of lupus if their mother had it and 14.5 times higher if their father had it. For boys, the risk was lower at 5.5 times for maternal cases, but there were no cases with a father having lupus. The study revealed that both boys and girls are similarly affected by their parents' history of these autoimmune diseases, suggesting that factors related to the X-chromosome do not significantly impact the risk differences between sexes. Who this helps: This helps patients and doctors understand the hereditary risks of autoimmune diseases.

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This study looked at whether taking a medication called azathioprine during pregnancy affects the development of children born to mothers with a condition called systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Out of 60 children studied, 15 needed special educational services, and those exposed to azathioprine were more likely to require these services, with 54% of those exposed needing help compared to only 17% of those not exposed. This is important because early identification and support for developmental delays can help improve outcomes for these children. Who this helps: This helps children and families affected by systemic lupus and their development needs.

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This study looked at whether taking omega-3 supplements during pregnancy could lower the levels of certain chemicals in newborns' blood that are linked to allergies. The researchers found that mothers who took these omega-3s had babies with lower levels of allergy-related chemicals: those taking eicosapentaenoic acid saw a reduction of 1.8 units, and those taking docosahexaenoic acid saw a reduction of 2.0 units compared to those who got a placebo. Also, babies delivered by cesarean section had higher levels of these chemicals compared to those born vaginally, indicating a potential risk for allergies. Who this helps: This research benefits expectant mothers and their babies by providing information on how prenatal nutrition and delivery methods may influence allergy risk.

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This study looked at 160 patients with polymyositis and dermatomyositis to understand how treatments and patient characteristics affect survival. It found that after 10 years, 62% of the patients were still alive, with different survival rates between sexes—only 18% of men survived compared to 73% of women. Additionally, patients treated with methotrexate had a better survival rate at 10 years (76%) compared to those treated with azathioprine (52%). Who this helps: This research can help doctors make better treatment decisions for patients with these muscle diseases.

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This study looked at the effects of a cancer treatment called cyclophosphamide on the ovaries of premenopausal women with lupus, specifically measuring a hormone called AMH that indicates ovarian reserve. The researchers found that women who received cyclophosphamide alone had much lower AMH levels (0.18 ng/mL) compared to those who didn’t receive cyclophosphamide (1.33 ng/mL) and those who received cyclophosphamide plus another treatment, GnRH-a (0.86 ng/mL). This is important because it shows that adding GnRH-a can help protect ovarian function in women undergoing cyclophosphamide treatment. Who this helps: This helps women with lupus who need cyclophosphamide therapy.

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Researchers studied the impact of type I interferons (IFNs) on heart health in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) who didn’t have obvious cardiovascular disease. They found that higher levels of type I IFNs were linked to poorer blood vessel function, increased thickness in the carotid artery, and more severe coronary artery calcification in these patients. This matters because it highlights how type I IFNs could contribute to heart disease risk in lupus patients, which isn’t fully captured by traditional risk assessments. Who this helps: This helps patients with systemic lupus erythematosus and their doctors.

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This study looked at how well certain blood markers could help diagnose systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), an autoimmune disease, in 593 people, including 210 with SLE. The researchers found that combining levels of specific markers (like EC4d and BC4d) with standard tests improved the accuracy of the diagnosis, identifying 72% of SLE patients correctly while maintaining over 90% accuracy in distinguishing them from other conditions. This is important because better diagnostic tools can lead to earlier and more accurate treatment for people with SLE. Who this helps: This helps patients with systemic lupus erythematosus and their doctors.

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This study examined the impact of chemotherapy on women's ovaries, especially those with autoimmune diseases like lupus and scleroderma. Researchers found that chemotherapy can lead to primary ovarian insufficiency (POI), which not only reduces the chances of having children but also increases health risks, such as heart disease and weakened bones. Using a specific treatment called gonadotropin-releasing hormone analog (GnRH-a) can help protect the ovaries during chemotherapy and is less expensive and invasive than other fertility treatments, although it isn't officially approved for this purpose. Who this helps: This helps women with autoimmune diseases undergoing chemotherapy.

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This study looked at how genetic factors and changes in T cells' DNA affect the severity of lupus flares, which are much more frequent in women than in men. The researchers found that men need a higher level of genetic risk and T cell DNA changes to experience a lupus flare as severe as women; specifically, men required a ratio of genetic risk to DNA changes that was about 2.5 times greater for certain markers (P = 0.010 and P = 0.0054 for the genes studied). Understanding these differences is important because it can help tailor treatment approaches for lupus patients based on their sex and genetic background. Who this helps: This information benefits researchers and doctors treating lupus patients.

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This study examined how the age when lupus starts affects the severity of the disease and how genetic risk contributes to this timing. It found that patients who develop lupus in childhood are much more likely to have serious symptoms, such as kidney issues and specific antibodies, with odds as high as three times greater for some symptoms. Additionally, genetic factors that predict early onset of lupus vary among different racial groups, increasing the odds by 48% in Gullah individuals and 25% in African-Americans. Who this helps: This research benefits patients by helping identify those at greater risk for severe lupus based on their age of onset and genetics.

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This study looked at a specific genetic change in the interleukin-4 receptor (IL-4R) and its impact on a type of immune cell involved in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Researchers found that this genetic change (the I50V SNP) affects how well IL-4 can regulate IL-17 production, with healthy individuals showing significant differences depending on which version of the IL-4R gene they had. In RA patients, however, the ability of IL-4 to control IL-17 production was diminished, which may help explain why the disease often gets worse despite treatment. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with rheumatoid arthritis by providing insights into how their condition might be influenced by genetics, potentially guiding future treatment strategies.