International journal of rheumatic diseases
-
Multicenter Study
Pulmonary arterial hypertension in systemic lupus erythematosus based on a CSTAR-PAH study: Baseline characteristics and risk factors.
Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a complex and devastating complication of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). We sought to describe the baseline characteristics of right heart catheterization (RHC)-confirmed SLE-associated PAH and identify risk factors for PAH in SLE patients. ⋯ Overall, we recommend performing early screening using TTE in SLE patients with serositis, anti-RNP antibodies, or a DLCO/%Pred <70%, even for patients in a relatively stable condition according to SLE disease activity index.
-
Multicenter Study Observational Study
Combination of ultrasound power Doppler-verified synovitis and seropositivity accurately identifies patients with early-stage rheumatoid arthritis.
We conducted this retrospective study to identify objective and comprehensive diagnostic criteria for early-stage rheumatoid arthritis (RA) that are based on ultrasound (US) and serologic findings. ⋯ The combination of a PD assessment or the cPD score with the measurement of autoantibodies of rheumatoid factor and/or anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibodies can accurately identify patients with early-stage RA.