Fractures of the spine and abdominal aortic calcification (AAC) can both be visualized with spinal imaging; a new report shows that finding both radiographic vertebral fracture and AAC on the same lateral spine images may predict the risk of future incident major osteoporotic fracture in older men.

Does uric acid contribute to the risk of hypertension (HTN)?  A recent cohort trial shows that allopurinol in young adults does not sufficiently lower blood pressure (BP). Previous research in a small cohort of obese hypertensive kids showed that urate lowering therapy was assoaciated with control of hypertension (HTN). 

This year’s coverage of psoriatic arthritis was once again, both exciting and informative. Topics included an overview of the latest therapeutic options, an excellent discussion on psoriasis specifically, and the epidemiology of psoriatic arthritis. 

Serious infections occurred more frequently among patients with anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis who were given induction therapy with cyclophosphamide compared with rituximab (Rituxan), Greek researchers found.