Rheumnow Podcast DERM on RheumNow Podcast (December 2025)
Jan 3, 2026
The discussion kicks off with the intriguing link between hydroxychloroquine levels and increased ocular toxicity risk. Practical monitoring tips are provided, especially for high-risk patients. A study highlights scleroderma's ILD risk triad, while familial Mediterranean fever is linked to a higher incidence of psoriatic arthritis. The benefits of a Mediterranean diet on psoriasis are also explored, alongside how biologics can lower cardiovascular risks. Finally, insights into difficult-to-treat psoriatic arthritis and a comprehensive dermatomyositis review round out the conversation.
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Screen RA Patients For Skin Cancer
- Screen rheumatoid arthritis patients periodically for skin cancer, especially those on TNF inhibitors.
- Partner with dermatologists to ensure complete skin exams are done rather than assuming rheumatologists will perform them.
Monitor Hydroxychloroquine Blood Levels
- Check hydroxychloroquine blood levels periodically to confirm compliance and identify toxicity risk.
- Monitor levels especially yearly or biannually and more closely in CKD patients or when cumulative dose is high.
Triad Predicts SSc-ILD Risk
- A lab triad (neutrophil:lymphocyte ratio, prothrombin time, SCL70 antibody) predicted systemic sclerosis ILD with high accuracy.
- This provides a practical screening approach to identify patients at higher ILD risk.