Prevalence of muscle involvement in systemic sclerosis (SSc) ranges from 6% to 96%. If inflammatory myopathy (IM) is present, early diagnosis enables timely treatment; however, there is no standardized approach to detection. We evaluated a screening algorithm for SSc-related muscle involvement.

Cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) is an autoimmune skin condition associated with a considerable treatment burden and diminished quality of life. The absence of a consensus outcome measure to evaluate therapeutic response has posed a challenge to CLE drug development. The Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus Disease Area and Severity Index (CLASI) was developed in response to this need, incorporating morphological components including erythema, scale, dyspigmentation and scarring, to reflect disease activity and damage. Numerous studies have demonstrated the utility of CLASI in capturing relevant aspects of disease from clinician- and patient-based perspectives; however, no regulatory precedent for use of clinical trial data employing CLASI to evaluate treatment response in CLE exists. Thus, the Lupus Accelerating Breakthroughs Consortium commissioned a working group of members from industry, academia, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and CLE patient advocates to address the potential knowledge gaps with CLASI through evidence-based research. Upon reviewing and submitting these data to the FDA, the working group reached alignment that CLASI is a suitable outcome measure for CLE clinical trials, enabling a clearer regulatory path for clinical drug development. The group recognizes the need for additional information to assess what degree of change in CLASI captures clinically meaningful improvement.

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a prototypical systemic immune-mediated fibrosing disease that affects the skin, the lungs, the heart, the kidneys and the intestinal tract. Similar to many other fibrotic diseases, SSc is associated with high morbidity and mortality and therapeutic options are limited. Fibrosis arises from a complex interplay of vascular damage, inflammation and prolonged, misdirected repair responses. The progressive accumulation of extracellular matrix perturbs the physiological tissue architecture and commonly leads to failure of the affected organs. Understanding the mechanisms of fibrotic tissue remodelling can lead to the identification of preclinical targets. Novel fibrosis-promoting cell subpopulations, the interplay of fibroblasts with B cells and macrophages, the nerve-fibroblast axis, matrikines and matricryptins, senescence, profibrotic transcription factors, developmental pathways and epigenetic tissue memory are all important drivers of fibrotic tissue remodelling that might offer potential for novel therapies to improve outcomes for patients with SSc and possibly other fibrotic conditions.

Psoriatic arthritis develops in up to one-third of individuals with psoriasis, typically following a prolonged subclinical phase. Diagnostic delays are common, often exceeding 2 years, and can result in irreversible joint damage. The growing recognition of this latent period has fuelled interest in earlier identification and interception. However, efforts are hampered by inconsistent definitions of early or subclinical psoriatic arthritis, insufficient prognostic tools, and an absence of consensus on the outcome for interception studies. This Review synthesises a rapidly evolving field, offering a framework organised around four crucial questions: first, what defines progression from psoriasis to psoriatic arthritis? Second, who is most at risk of transition? Third, how can progression be reliably measured using imaging, molecular biomarkers, or digital health technologies? Fourth, when should preventive intervention be considered? We critically examine new conceptual models, the limitations of existing classification criteria, advances in imaging and biomarker research, and the promise of digital phenotyping. Addressing the current challenges in definitions, risk stratification, measurement, and trial design is essential for the development of biologically grounded, ethically robust interception strategies.

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is a commonly performed surgery that can successfully treat end-stage osteoarthritis (OA). Obesity is a known risk factor for OA and its progression, but its impact on postoperative satisfaction and implant sizing remains unclear. The current study aimed to assess the association of preoperative body mass index (BMI) and lower limb dimensions with TKA component sizing and patient-reported outcomes.

To evaluate physical activity (PA) levels in patients with psoriatic arthritis (PsA) and their associations with cardiovascular (CV) risk factors, psychosocial parameters, and functional status, and to identify distinct patient subgroups using latent class analysis.

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare autoimmune connective tissue disease with multiple internal organ involvement, vasculopathy, and fibrosis. Two major types are present, limited systemic sclerosis (lSSc) and diffuse systemic sclerosis (dSSc), according to the limit of skin fibrosis, with variability in internal organ involvement. Raynaud's phenomenon (RP) is almost always present in either type as a presenting feature; it may precede the onset by years. It affects the quality of life for the patient and has a variable range of complications as well, with the most severe being tissue gangrene and finger amputation. The aim of the study was to investigate the prevalence of RP complications and predictors of outcome in lSSc and dSSc.

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is a chronic inflammatory disease in children under 16 years of age, often associated with joint damage. The etiopathogenesis of JIA involves an abnormal immune response triggered by the interaction of genetic, immunological, and environmental factors. Pain and swelling associated with JIA can lead to mobility issues and reduced physical activity (PA). Regular PA, tailored to the child's current health and functional status, is recommended for JIA patients. We aimed to assess whether JIA influences the choice of PA in children aged 7-13 years.

This study aimed to evaluate ultrasonographic entheseal abnormalities in patients with radiographic axial spondyloarthritis (r-axSpA) who were in clinical remission for at least 6 months and receiving either nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or biologic agents.

Dermatomyositis with anti-melanoma differentiation-associated gene 5 (anti-MDA5) antibodies is a rare, poorly recognised and potentially life-threatening subtype of idiopathic inflammatory myopathies. Frequent amyopathic course, unique cutaneous lesions, symptoms interfering with other connective tissue diseases, and low awareness of the disease lead to a delay in establishing the proper diagnosis. Clinical presentations may differ among individuals, and three main patterns have been identified depending on the predominant symptoms and prognosis. Interstitial lung disease and vasculopathy contribute mostly to an unfavourable outcome. The study aimed to present different courses of anti-MDA5 myopathy and highlight the heterogenicity of the disease, based on real-life cases from one centre. This is also the first study to document renal involvement in the form of focal segmental glomerulosclerosis in patient with anti-MDA5 dermatomyositis. The review section broadly describes up-to-date knowledge on the subtypes of anti-MDA5 myopathy, thoroughly exploring its pathogenesis, clinical presentations and currently recommended standards of care.

Raynaud's phenomenon (RP) is a vasospastic disorder classified into primary (PRP) and secondary (SRP) forms. Infrared thermography (IRT), a non-invasive imaging technique assessing skin surface temperature, has emerged as a valuable tool in evaluating microvascular dysfunction in RP. This review analyzed literature from 2010 to 2025 across PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase using key words including "Raynaud's phenomenon," "infrared thermography," and "cold provocation test." Studies focusing on diagnostic accuracy, differentiation of PRP from SRP, and monitoring treatment response were included. Infrared thermography demonstrates strong sensitivity and specificity, especially through parameters such as distal-dorsal temperature difference and rewarming kinetics. It offers a comfortable, reproducible alternative to traditional methods such as the finger systolic pressure test. However, lack of standardized imaging protocols and equipment variability limit its widespread use. Advancements in device calibration, artificial intelligence integration, and protocol harmonization could enhance IRT's clinical utility in diagnosing and monitoring RP.

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is effective for treating end-stage osteoarthritis but often results in significant blood loss, necessitating optimized management strategies. A literature review of meta-analyses, systematic reviews, and clinical trials was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar. The acronym TKA-BLED encapsulates effective blood loss management strategies. Tranexamic acid: reduces blood loss by 591 ml and decreases transfusion rates. Keep femoral canal closed: saves 381 ml by minimizing hidden loss. Apply cryotherapy: conserves 264 ml while reducing pain and swelling. Be aware of tourniquet use: limits intraoperative loss but increases total postoperative blood loss and complications. Limit drain use: retains 318 ml through the tamponade effect. Elevate the knee: decreases blood loss by up to 257 ml. Decrease operative time: saves 14 ml per minute. The TKA-BLED protocol effectively reduces blood loss and transfusion needs, improving patient outcomes. More research is needed to validate its long-term efficacy.

Axial spondyloarthropathy (axSpA) belongs to a group of chronic, progressive inflammatory diseases with a variety of clinical manifestations, including musculoskeletal and extra-articular symptoms. The most common extra-articular manifestation in patients with axSpA is uveitis, which usually involves the anterior segment, can be recurring, and is a vision-threatening complication. Ocular complications can result from the disease itself, as well as from the therapy used to treat it. Treatment for axSpA is based on both pharmacological and non-pharmacological management. Biologic and targeted synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are an effective and constantly evolving form of axSpA therapy; however, their application and side effects remain under study. The aim of this article is to summarize current knowledge about the efficacy of biologic and targeted synthetic DMARDs in non-infectious uveitis in axSpA and delineate their effect on the organ of vision.

To assess the prevalence and persistence of self-reported depression and its associated factors in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), using a patient-reported outcome measure in a large, multicentre, prospective cohort.

In rare and complex connective tissue diseases, patient partnership is essential to address diagnostic delays, fragmented care, unmet needs, and the research agenda. European Reference Network (ERN) ReCONNET, the network dedicated to rare and complex connective tissue diseases, has implemented a structured and transferable model of patient partnership. Patients contribute to every phase of research and care development: from identifying unmet needs to co-authoring scientific publications. Patient input also shapes educational initiatives and strategic planning. By institutionalising partnership through governance structures and shared decision-making processes, ERN ReCONNET shows that involving patients as equal stakeholders enhances the relevance, quality, and effect of activities. This Personal View was co-written with the direct partnership of authors with lived experience of rare and complex connective tissue diseases and reports a model that can be adapted to other rare diseases and rheumatological settings, promoting a culture of patient-centred innovation in health-care systems.