The Evidence Based Rheumatology Podcast

Finally addressing this ultrasound business. I decided to cover two somewhat similar trials, which seem to come to the same conclusions regarding U/S and treat to target strategies. However, the question addressed was narrow and the role of ultrasound remains to be determined. Get this paper (and all the others) here: https://tinyurl.com/yyll5qof

This week we tackle two RCTs and try to figure out what to do with etanercept, methotrexate, and placebo (or the lack thereof). Good opportunity for jumping into more PsA trials in the near future - lots of IL-somethings to talk about! Remember to follow the podcast @EBRheum to give feedback and for updates!

We're back! This week I discuss work I did for the rheumatology winter clinical symposium on the quality of RCTs in the rheumatologic literature. Be sure to follow the twitter handle for a descriptive slide and to weigh in on the podcast! @ebrheum

Double episode this week and then I'll be taking the holidays off. I decided to combine two trials of immunotherapy for secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease, the CANTOS trial (canakinumab vs. placebo) and the CIRT trial (methotrexate vs. placebo). It was a good opportunity to debunk both therapies and take a few pot shots at observational trials, "bioplausibility," and surrogate endpoints. Both papers are available on my box account here.

Interesting trial this week pitting an elaborate nurse led group against suboptimal usual care. Suboptimal usual care lost pretty badly, but what to make of this? And does it support the rheumatologist side of the treat to target controversy? Listen to find out and be sure to follow on @EBRheum if you have your own thoughts!