In a post hoc analysis of the phase 2 NOBILITY trial, researchers found that treatment with obinutuzumab—an antibody that targets a protein expressed on certain immune cells—was superior to placebo for preserving kidney function and preventing flares in patients with lupus nephritis, a kidney condition associated with the autoimmune disease lupus.

A study of nearly 80,000 US veterans who underwent primary knee joint arthroplasty (TKA) showed  the incidence of prosthetic joint infection (PJI) was highest in the first 3 months and remained elevated through 12 months compared with 12 months or more after surgery. Gram-negative organisms were more prevalent in early vs delayed or late PJIs.

A prospective study of first line use anakinra in systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis (sJIA) proved to be effective and without potentially allergic lung reactions.

Dr. Jack Cush reviews the news, journal reports and regulatory approvals from the past week on RheumNow.com. Study of LATE-onset RA (>65y), shows DMARD initiation is low in LORA;  despite current clinical practice guidelines recommending early aggressive Rx. Among 3,373 LORA pts (age77 yrs),  only 29% initiated on a DMARD. https://bit.ly/47dT6x6