IL-6 inhibition in RA — mechanism, monitoring, and differentiating the agents
IL-6 inhibitors can quiet RA—and mask CRP/ESR signals. Learn 4 monitoring clues on infection, lipids, neutrophils, and CDAI for safer care at the next visit.
Treatments and Therapies
Tapering biologics in RA — what the evidence supports
Considering RA biologic tapering? Learn why 6+ months of remission, no swollen joints, and dose spacing—not abrupt stopping—can help lower flare risk in RA.
Mycophenolate vs azathioprine in lupus maintenance
Prevent lupus relapse after induction: compare mycophenolate vs azathioprine using 2024 ACR/EULAR guidance, trial data, pregnancy safety & monitoring tips.
Methotrexate — why it remains the anchor DMARD after 40 years
Why methotrexate remains RA’s anchor after 40 years: proven inflammation control, low cost, predictable monitoring, and room to escalate safely.
Seronegative RA — diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment considerations
RF/anti-CCP negative? Learn how seronegative RA is diagnosed with 2010 criteria, imaging, and treat-to-target care—avoid mimics, missed synovitis, DMARD delays.
Hydroxychloroquine dosing and retinal toxicity — the updated guidance
Dose hydroxychloroquine safely with the 5 mg/kg actual-weight rule, retinal toxicity risk stats, OCT screening timing, and tips to protect lupus control well.
ANCA vasculitis remission induction — cyclophosphamide vs rituximab
Choose rituximab or Cytoxan for ANCA vasculitis with confidence: compare RAVE/RITUXVAS data, relapse, renal-lung urgency, fertility and toxicity tradeoffs.
JAK inhibitors vs biologics in RA: how to frame the risk conversation
Choosing JAK inhibitors vs biologics in RA? Weigh FDA boxed warnings, age, heart risk, smoking, cancer and clot history for clearer shared decisions in practice
B-cell depletion in lupus nephritis — who, when, and why
Know when CD20 B-cell depletion fits lupus nephritis: rituximab vs obinutuzumab, class III-V timing, 2024 ACR guidance, risks, and measurable response goals.