Connected Rheumatology

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Archives for April 2024

Fibromyalgia pain is real – everything you need to know

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Fibromyalgia is not just a label; it’s a clinical syndrome characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain. But it’s more than just pain. Fibro comes with a host of other symptoms like fatigue, sleep disturbances, mood disorders, and brain fog. 

For years, Fibromyalgia was shrouded in skepticism, with some dismissing it as a “trash can diagnosis.” Although some folks thought it was a made-up thing for many years, Fibromyalgia is as real as it gets.

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The Anti-CCP Test: A Breakthrough in Rheumatoid Arthritis Diagnosis

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Let’s explore how this simple blood test has revolutionized the early detection of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), offering new hope and insights for patients and practitioners alike.

Understanding the Anti-CCP Test

Let’s start with the basics. The anti-CCP test is a crucial diagnostic tool used in the evaluation of RA. But what exactly does it measure, and why is it so important? The test detects the presence of autoantibodies (antibodies that attack your own body) against a class of proteins that have undergone citrullination. Citrullination is a process in which the amino acid arginine is converted into citrulline, one of many ways our body is able to produce this vital amino acid. 

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Behcet’s Disease Explained

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If your eye doctor, gynecologist, or even your rheumatologist has mentioned Behcet’s and left you scratching your head, you’re not alone. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the intricacies of Behcet’s Disease, from its characteristic ulcers to the underlying inflammation and geographical factors at play.

The Mystery of Behcet’s

Behcet’s Disease is a systemic vasculitis, meaning it affects the body’s blood vessels, both large and small. At its core lies inflammation, a common thread in many autoimmune conditions. But what sets Behcet’s apart is its enigmatic nature—it’s not a condition you hear about every day, and its diagnosis can be challenging.

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Is Lupus Preventable?

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Can we prevent lupus? What do we need to know before we can answer this question? How close are we today?

Understanding Lupus and Autoimmunity

Lupus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease that can affect various organs and systems in the body. From joint pain and fatigue to more severe complications involving the kidneys, brain, or heart, lupus presents a wide spectrum of symptoms and challenges for patients. At its core, SLE is characterized by an overactive immune system that mistakenly attacks healthy tissues, leading to inflammation and tissue damage.

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