This study uses a neuroimaging radiotracer with positron emission tomography (PET) to quantify cerebral glial activation in brains of patients with post-treatment Lyme disease. Results show elevated central nervous system immune activation in patients with PTLDS as compared to controls.
Myositis Patients, Caregivers, and Healthcare Providers Weigh-in About What is Most Important to Them
Our results indicate that substantial differences exist in how myositis is perceived by patients compared to healthcare providers, with different items prioritized.
Dermatomyositis Autoantibodies associated with adverse skin reactions after treatment
Hydroxychloroquine sulfate is frequently used to treat patients with dermatomyositis. It has been associated with an increased risk of adverse skin reactions in these patients.
EnCOMPASSing the extent of “dysautonomia” in patients with Scleroderma
This study explores the prevalence and risk factors for “autonomic dysfunction” in scleroderma.
Robust B Cell Responses Predict Rapid Resolution of Lyme Disease
Lyme disease (Borrelia burgdorferi infection) is increasingly recognized as a significant worldwide illness. This study provides insights into important immune mechanisms involved in Borrelia burgdorferi clearance in human Lyme disease.
Maintenance therapy in well-controlled vasculitis: Is it ever ok to stop?
“Whether or not” and “how” to taper off the last bit of medication for patients with clinically stable ANCA-associated vasculitis are hotly debated topics in the vasculitis field.
Incidence of Lyme Disease Diagnosis in a Maryland Medicaid Population
This study evaluates overall incidence rates and demographic, seasonal, and geographic trends of first Lyme disease diagnosis among 384,652 Maryland Medicaid members enrolled from July 2004-June 2011 and represents the first analysis of claims data from publicly insured individuals.
Cognitive Decline in Post-treatment Lyme Disease Syndrome
Patients with Post-treatment Lyme Disease Syndrome (PTLDS) commonly complain of cognitive symptoms. The study found, in subsets of PTLDS patients, objective evidence of cognitive decline in verbal memory and processing speed, cognitive impairment, and sub-optimal engagement with testing.
Obstacles to Diagnosis and Treatment of Lyme Disease in the USA
To our knowledge, this is the first study to explore factors which may contribute to a delay in diagnosis and treatment of Lyme disease. We identified distinct, potentially modifiable risk factors between onset of first Lyme disease symptoms and treatment. Targeting these drivers may reduce time to diagnosis and treatment and reduce the occurrence of late-stage Lyme disease complications.
