New in the non-rheumatology journals, much about pain: A review based on 2012 fibromyalgia guidelines from Canada, a viewpoint on safe use of opioids, the evidence to back spinal pain interventions. Also: fast-track arthroplasty, and more newfound genes. More »

Beyond the discovery of new disease genes, revelations about how how our microbes influence our immunity and about many new subtypes of T cells--a mixture of commitment and plascticity. More »

Research published within the past year has increased and refined support for the concept that this autoimmunity may arise initially in mucosal surfaces, predominantly the lung, the oral cavity, and the digestive system, prompted by the presence of microbes. More »

Concern that supplemental vitamin D might trigger exacerbated autoimmune responses among teenagers is relieved by data from the Nurses Health Study. More »

A closer look at racial disparities in treatments for rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis show nuanced explanations for why African Americans are less willing to undergo drug therapy and surgery. More careful and clearer communication may go a long way toward closing the gap. More »

Pediatric rheumatologists are dramatically changing their treatment strategies for systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis, but it is challenging to choose between promising new options. More »

New label changes about hepatic risks with the gout drug febuxostat (Uloric) and uncertainties about the new oral RA drug tofacitinib (Xeljanz) were on the agenda as the most important new drug issues arising this year, as FDA officials spoke at the American College of Rheumatology meeting. More »

Updates to be presented at the American College of Radiology meeting begin to resolve some outstanding questions about the breakthrough drug for treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus. More »

Interstitial lung disease may be present at diagnosis of systemic sclerosis, or may never arise. The need to predict this often fatal comorbidity is urgent. Two biomarkers in peripheral blood appear promising. More »

Attention to early diagnosis and intervention in osteoarthritis (OA) has increased, but which treatments may have the greatest benefit is unclear. However, available and emerging treatments can ameliorate progression. More »