Rheumatology
-
Randomized Controlled Trial Meta Analysis Clinical Trial
The health assessment questionnaire (HAQ) is strongly predictive of good outcome in early diffuse scleroderma: results from an analysis of two randomized controlled trials in early diffuse scleroderma.
Scoring poorly on the health assessment questionnaire (HAQ) has recently been shown to be a strong predictor of morbidity and mortality in rheumatoid arthritis (RA), while a good HAQ score is predictive of a better outcome. In patients presenting with early diffuse scleroderma prognosis is variable. Our goal was to determine possible baseline predictors of future good outcomes. ⋯ A low baseline HAQ (defined as less than the median HAQ score) is predictive of improved outcome in diffuse scleroderma at 1 and 2 yr.
-
To analyse the clinical features and outcomes of gout complicated with necrotizing fasciitis. ⋯ Necrotizing fasciitis in gout patients represents a surgical and medical emergency, and is associated with a high mortality rate. Prompt diagnosis and treatment is imperative and may be lifesaving. Early diagnosis requires a high level of suspicion, even in patients without fever or leucocytosis.