William D Marder

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This study looked at how differences in disease activity scores for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) relate to pain responses in patients experiencing nociplastic pain, which is linked to pain processing rather than direct injury. They found that a greater difference in tender-swollen joint counts (averaging 5.4) and subjective assessments (49.7% for DAS28-P) were linked to lower pain thresholds and higher sensitivity to pain. This is important because it suggests that when patients report more pain than what doctors assess, it could indicate a type of pain that needs different management strategies. Who this helps: This research helps patients with rheumatoid arthritis and their doctors understand pain better.

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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 pain sensitivity changes in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) after starting treatment with disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). Researchers followed 182 patients for 12 weeks and found that pain thresholds increased, meaning patients felt less pain at different body sites. Specifically, pain sensitivity improved alongside reductions in overall disease activity and joint swelling, which is important because it suggests that effective treatment not only reduces inflammation but also helps alleviate pain. Who this helps: This helps patients with rheumatoid arthritis manage their pain more effectively.

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This study explored how being sensitive to visual stimuli relates to pain responses in various chronic pain conditions, such as arthritis and fibromyalgia. The researchers found that people with chronic pain reported seeing lights as brighter compared to those without pain, and those with more severe fibromyalgia symptoms were less likely to benefit from surgeries aimed at reducing pain. Specifically, a higher sensitivity to visual stimuli was linked to not improving after surgery, suggesting that assessing this sensitivity could help doctors understand different pain conditions better. Who this helps: This helps patients with chronic pain conditions and their doctors.

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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 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 looked at how sleep problems affect pain levels in people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and whether increased pain sensitivity plays a role in that connection. Researchers found that sleep disturbances were linked to higher pain intensity, with a specific finding that a 5-point increase in sleep disturbance led to a 0.32 increase in pain intensity. Pain sensitivity accounted for about 10-19% of this relationship, suggesting sleep issues can make pain feel worse. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with rheumatoid arthritis by highlighting the importance of addressing sleep issues to potentially reduce pain.

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This study looked at whether the severity of fibromyalgia symptoms in rheumatoid arthritis patients could predict how active their disease would be after they started or changed medication. Researchers followed 192 patients for 12 weeks and found that those with more widespread pain (as measured by the Fibromyalgia Survey Questionnaire) had higher disease activity scores, indicating worse RA control. Specifically, for every point increase on the pain scale, there was a 0.04 point increase in disease activity after treatment, suggesting that fibromyalgia symptoms can help predict outcomes for RA patients. Who this helps: This benefits patients with rheumatoid arthritis and their healthcare providers in managing treatment plans.

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This study looked at how different pain mechanisms affect disease activity in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) who are being treated with medications that modify the disease. Researchers analyzed data from 176 patients and found that low pressure pain thresholds (where pain is felt with less pressure) and poor pain modulation were linked to higher disease activity after treatment. Specifically, for patients with low to moderate disease activity, those with lower pain thresholds had an average disease activity score of 2.8, while those with higher thresholds had a score of 3.5. For patients with high disease activity, less effective pain modulation led to a score of 4.6 compared to 3.4 for those with better modulation. Understanding these pain mechanisms can help in better managing pain and disease activity in RA patients. Who this helps: This helps patients with rheumatoid arthritis and their doctors.

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This study looked at the differences between men and women with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in terms of pain levels and pain sensitivity. It found that women reported an average pain intensity score of 5.32 out of 10, while men reported 4.60, showing that women experience higher pain. Women also had lower thresholds for feeling pressure pain, meaning they are more sensitive to pain compared to men. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with rheumatoid arthritis by highlighting the need for tailored pain management strategies based on sex.

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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 how fibromyalgia symptoms affect the use of glucocorticoids (like prednisone) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Researchers found that 84% of patients with high fibromyalgia symptoms continued taking prednisone after three months, compared to only 57% of those with low fibromyalgia symptoms. This matters because ongoing use of glucocorticoids can lead to harmful side effects, especially for patients already dealing with the challenges of RA. Who this helps: This helps patients with rheumatoid arthritis and their doctors in managing treatment plans effectively.

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This study looked at how a simple questionnaire about fibromyalgia pain (the FSQ) relates to a more complex pain sensitivity test (QST) in patients with active rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Among 285 patients, they found that while the FSQ and QST showed some correlation, it was weak—meaning that one cannot replace the other. This research is important because it helps identify the most effective ways to assess pain sensitivity in RA, which can lead to better pain management for patients. Who this helps: Patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

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This study looked at how effective medication is for treating patients with a rare condition called idiopathic retroperitoneal fibrosis (RPF), which can block the ureters and cause kidney issues. Out of 52 patients treated with medication and temporary stents, 69% saw their ureter blockages resolve without needing surgery, and follow-up showed most patients remained stable for over four years. Understanding these treatment options can help both patients and doctors make better choices regarding management of RPF, weighing benefits and risks of medications versus surgery. Who this helps: Patients with idiopathic retroperitoneal fibrosis.

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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 a certain type of pain experience, called pain centralization, affects the level of pain reported by patients with active rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Researchers found that patients with lower pressure pain thresholds (indicating more central pain issues) reported pain that was about 1.02 points higher on a scale than those with higher thresholds. Additionally, patients with higher temporal summation scores also reported pain that was 1.19 points higher than those with lower scores, highlighting that these central pain patterns lead to more intense pain experiences. Understanding this connection is important because it shows that pain management in RA patients should consider factors beyond just inflammation. Who this helps: This research helps patients with rheumatoid arthritis and their doctors manage pain more effectively.

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This study investigated how issues with the brain's processing of pain affect how well people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) respond to a specific type of medication called disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). Among 182 participants, only 22.5% of those with high pain processing issues had a good treatment response compared to 40.3% of those with low pain processing issues. This is important because understanding these pain processing problems could lead to better-targeted treatments for RA patients. Who this helps: Patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

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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 well certain surveys (PROMIS measures) worked for measuring the health and wellness of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) who were starting or switching their medications. Researchers found that among 106 patients, all reported improvements in physical health, pain, and sleep after 12 weeks of treatment, while their overall disease activity also decreased. This is important because it shows that PROMIS measures can effectively track changes in health for RA patients, helping to ensure they receive the best care possible. Who this helps: This helps patients with rheumatoid arthritis and their doctors.

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This study looked at how starting a new medication for rheumatoid arthritis affects patients' pain and their tendency to worry about it. Researchers found that after 12 weeks, patients' disease activity scores significantly decreased from 22 to 11.5, and their pain intensity also dropped from a median of 5 to 3, while their pain catastrophizing scores went down from 16.0 to 12.0. These results show that treating the disease not only lowers pain but also helps patients feel less anxious about it. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with rheumatoid arthritis by showing how effective new treatments can improve both physical and mental aspects of their condition.

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This research paper looks at pregnancy complications in women with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). It highlights that factors like certain immune responses and lower socioeconomic status increase the risk of poor pregnancy outcomes. It also shows that taking hydroxychloroquine is safe and effective during pregnancy and that low-dose aspirin can help prevent complications like preeclampsia. Overall, care for pregnant women with SLE is improving as doctors become more aware of these risks and treatment options. Who this helps: This helps women with systemic lupus erythematosus who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.

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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 being part of a larger health system affects hospital costs and the quality of care for patients. Researchers found that hospitals connected to health systems had higher costs per patient but also provided better care. For instance, patients at centralized hospitals faced the highest costs and longest stays. This matters because while being part of a health system may improve the quality of treatment, it does not lower costs, suggesting that new payment models might be necessary to help manage expenses better. Who this helps: This helps patients and healthcare administrators looking for ways to improve care while managing costs.

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This study looked at how increased pain sensitivity affects the severity of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in 139 patients. Researchers found that patients with lower pain thresholds (meaning they felt pain more intensely) had higher disease activity scores and more tender joints, with significant associations reflected in various tests (for instance, a pressure pain threshold was linked to higher scores with P values less than 0.03). Understanding this connection is important because it can help improve how RA is managed and treated. Who this helps: Patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

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This study looked at how often specific imaging features are seen in patients with retroperitoneal fibrosis (RPF), other fibrosing diseases, and cancer. Out of 68 patients diagnosed with RPF, 47 had masses near the aorta, but only 34 showed the classic features of RPF, suggesting that many patients might not have the expected signs on scans. The researchers found that if a mass doesn't push the aorta away from the spine, doctors can still be reasonably sure the patient has RPF, which means they might not need a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. Who this helps: This benefits patients suspected of having retroperitoneal fibrosis by reducing unnecessary procedures.

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This study looked at what factors influence people's decisions to seek help for mental health issues and the types of providers they choose. It found that in areas with fewer psychiatrists, 46.4% of patients were less likely to receive follow-up care, compared to 42.5% in areas with more psychiatrists. Additionally, those in low-supply areas were more likely to receive only prescription medications rather than therapy, showing that the availability of mental health professionals really matters for treatment options. Who this helps: Patients seeking mental health care in underserved areas.

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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 how well hospitals plan for patients’ discharge and its impact on how many patients return to the hospital within 30 days. It found that better discharge planning led to fewer overall readmissions—indicating a drop in 30-day readmission rates—and increased the chances that patients would return to the same hospital. This is important because it shows that improving discharge procedures can help keep patients healthier after they leave the hospital and ensure they get consistent care. Who this helps: This benefits patients recovering from serious health issues and the hospitals that treat them.

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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 document outlines an updated set of ethical guidelines for health economics and outcomes research (HEOR) by the professional society ISPOR. The 2017 version includes nine chapters that clarify what is acceptable in research practices, covering areas such as participant recruitment, data privacy, and guidelines for engaging with patients. It emphasizes the importance of ethical conduct in research to ensure that studies are trustworthy and beneficial to patient care. Who this helps: This benefits researchers, healthcare providers, and patients by promoting higher standards in medical research.

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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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Researchers found a specific type of immune cell (a T cell with particular surface markers) that appears in patients with lupus and other autoimmune diseases; this cell type is abnormally activated and likely drives disease flares. The amount of these cells in lupus patients directly matched how severe their disease was at the time of testing. These abnormal cells could become a useful blood test to detect when lupus is active and might be a new target for treatments to prevent disease flares.

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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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This study looked at how changes in local unemployment rates between 1995 and 2011 affected hospital visits for heart attacks in adults and seniors across the U.S. It found that when unemployment increased by one percentage point, heart attack hospitalizations dropped by about 0.80% for adults and 0.96% for seniors during the first half of the study. This finding is important because it shows a potential shift in how economic conditions might influence health outcomes, particularly for heart-related issues. Who this helps: This helps patients and healthcare providers understand how economic factors can impact heart health.

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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 why some patients return to the same hospital after being treated, focusing on data from 16 states. It found that most patients who were readmitted within 30 days went back to the same hospital, but the rates varied widely depending on the medical condition. Some hospitals had very low same-hospital readmission rates, often sending patients to other hospitals instead. Understanding why this happens is important for improving patient care and reducing unnecessary hospital shifts. Who this helps: This helps patients and hospitals improve care and avoid unnecessary readmissions.

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This study looked at how rising unemployment rates during the Great Recession affected hospital costs for patients in the U.S. between 2005 and 2010. It found that every time the unemployment rate went up by one percentage point, the average cost for a hospital stay increased by $37 for those with commercial insurance and $49 for Medicare recipients. This is important because it shows that economic downturns can significantly drive up healthcare costs, impacting how much patients and insurers have to pay. Who this helps: This information benefits patients, especially those relying on Medicare or commercial insurance.

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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 often cesarean deliveries happen in different areas of the United States and whether this varies between women with private insurance and those on Medicaid. It found that, on average, 18.9% of women with private insurance had cesareans compared to 16.4% of women on Medicaid. The study also identified various factors influencing cesarean rates, such as age and ethnicity, which differ depending on the type of insurance women have. Understanding these differences is important for improving healthcare quality and managing costs. Who this helps: This information helps patients and healthcare providers by identifying trends that can improve care.

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This research looked at how hospital prices for inpatient care differ based on whether patients have Medicare (public) or private insurance, across various small areas in six states. The study found that private payers were charged significantly more than public payers, with the prices varying greatly depending on the market competition—specifically, hospitals in more concentrated markets charged higher prices, like those for knee surgeries. Understanding these price differences can lead to better policies that may help lower costs for patients and create fairer pricing across different types of insurance. Who this helps: Patients with private insurance.