RheumMadness Podcast

In this episode, we recap the final results of RheumMadness 2025 and say thank you to our may contributors.  If you haven't already, complete our RheumMadness 2025 post-survey here:https://duke.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_1H1cHULbm0R1XWSTo learn more about RheumMadness:https://sites.duke.edu/rheummadness/Subscribe to our newsletter:https://lists.duke.edu/sympa/subscribe/rheummadnessFind us on social media:Bluesky: @rheummadness.bsky.socialInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rheummadness/X: Follow #RheumMadness

In this episode, we breakdown our reactions to the first round of RheumMadness 2025, plus we reveal which teams the participants liked the most in their brackets.To learn more about RheumMadness:https://sites.duke.edu/rheummadness/Subscribe to our newsletter:https://lists.duke.edu/sympa/subscribe/rheummadnessFind us on social media:Bluesky: @rheummadness.bsky.socialInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rheummadness/X: Follow #RheumMadness

Reminder to Submit your brackets by March 31, 2025 at 11:59pm ET!Link to the RheumMadness OnePager by Dr. Mithu Maheswaranathan (@MithuRheum)To learn more about RheumMadness:https://sites.duke.edu/rheummadness/Subscribe to our newsletter:https://lists.duke.edu/sympa/subscribe/rheummadnessFind us on social media:Bluesky: @rheummadness.bsky.socialInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rheummadness/X: Follow #RheumMadness

In this episode, the RheumMadness leadership team discusses our approach to RheumMadness bracketology, including our favorites, dark horses, and read on the Blue Ribbon Panel.Submit your brackets by March 31, 2025 at 11:59pm ET!To learn more about RheumMadness:https://sites.duke.edu/rheummadness/Subscribe to our newsletter:https://lists.duke.edu/sympa/subscribe/rheummadnessFind us on social media:Bluesky: @rheummadness.bsky.socialInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rheummadness/X: Follow #RheumMadnessIntro/outro music: Cheery Monday by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3495-cheery-mondayLicense: http://creativecommons.or

In this episode, we introduce the rest of the Blue Ribbon Panel and interview our friends from NephMadness about their CAR-T region.Remember, RheumMadness brackets are open through March 31 at 11:59pm ET!  Submit your brackets here.First time playing RheumMadness? Check out our new explainer video!Blue Ribbon Panelists in this episode:Anastasiya (Stacy) Bagrova, MD completed internal medicine residency at Duke, rheumatology fellowship at the University of South Florida, and is now a practicing rheumatologist in Clearwater, FL. Similar to her clinical practice, her clinical interests in rheumatology are broad.  Follow her on X at @asbagrova.Eric Dein, MD, is currently living in Jersey City, NJ – hometown of the March Madness great Cinderella St Peter's Peacock team. He is currently practicing rheumatology at Atlantic Health System at Overlook Hospital in Summit and West Orange, NJ, after completing medical school, residency and fellowship at Johns Hopkins. He is a USSONAR alumnus who utilizes musculoskeletal ultrasound in diagnosis and management of rheumatic disease. He is currently serving as ACR committee member on the Annual Meeting Planning Committee and enjoys advocacy trips to DC with Advocates for Arthritis. He has been a reporter for RheumNow at rheumatology conferences for the past 5 years. Follow him on X at @ericdeinmd.Rebecca Grainger, MB ChB (Dstn), PhD, FRACP, is Professor of Medicine at the University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand. A University of Otago medical graduate, she undertook rheumatology training in Melbourne and her PhD examined inflammatory mechanisms in gout. Dr. Grainger's clinical work focuses on assessment and management of inflammatory arthritis and her particular clinical interests include inflammatory arthritis, gout, and scleroderma. Dr. Grainger's academic interests are wide but she aims to undertake research in clinical rheumatology, health professions education and technology.  Follow her on X @Drbeckyg and on Bluesky at @profbeckyg.bsky.social.Lakshmi Jayaram, MD, is a clinician educator and Assistant Professor in the Division of Immunology and Rheumatology at Stanford University. Her academic interests are mainly in medical education, quality improvement, patient safety and social determinants of health. As a clinician, she is a general rheumatologist with special interests in myositis, gout, psoriatic arthritis, and vasculitis.Molly Leavitt, MD, MBA, is a first-year rheumatology fellow at the University of South Florida. Her interests include medical education and reproductive health for patients with rheumatic diseases.To learn more about RheumMadness:https://sites.duke.edu/rheummadness/Subscribe to our newsletter:https://lists.duke.edu/sympa/subscribe/rheummadnessFind us on social media:Bluesky: @rheummadness.bsky.socialInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rheummadness/X: Follow #RheumMadnessIntro/outro music: Cheery Monday by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3495-cheery-mondayLicense: http://creativecommons.or

In this episode, we introduce 2 of our fantastic Blue Ribbon Panel members.  Their full bios are listed below.  You'll meet the rest of the panel in the next episode!Also, RheumMadness brackets are open through March 31 at 11:59pm ET!  Submit your brackets here.First time playing RheumMadness? Check out our new explainer video!Panelists in this podcast:Michele Meltzer, MD, MBE, is an Associate Professor of Medicine at Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She attended Hahnemann Medical School and rheumatology fellowship at Temple University Hospital. In 2007, she completed a Master's of Bioethics at the University of Pennsylvania. Dr. Meltzer has been a ACR committee member of Rheumatologic Care and Ethics and Conflict of Interest committees. She serves as President and founding member of Rheumatology for All, a nonprofit whose mission is to increase access to rheumatology care in resource limited areas. She loves that RheumMadness makes learning about rheumatology fun and is accessible to students worldwide.Lisa Traboco, MD, is a rheumatologist with a passion for digital health, social media, telemedicine, and medical education. She likes to integrate technology into clinical practice and training, as well as participate in systems implementation. She is currently pursuing a Master's in Health Informatics while working at St. Luke's Medical Center – Global City in the Philippines. She is also actively involved in APLAR & has been an exchange scholar to Japan and the ACR. Her interests include learning languages, watching K-dramas & visiting historical museums. Follow her on X at @rheumarhyme and Bluesky at @rheumarhyme.bsky.social.To learn more about RheumMadness:https://sites.duke.edu/rheummadness/Subscribe to our newsletter:https://lists.duke.edu/sympa/subscribe/rheummadnessFind us on social media:Bluesky: @rheummadness.bsky.socialInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rheummadness/X: Follow #RheumMadnessIntro/outro music: Cheery Monday by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3495-cheery-mondayLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

In this episode we are joined by some amazing collaborators from the EMEUNET to talk about the STRAP trials.Links to the B-Cell Breakaway Scouting Reports:Obinutuzumab in lupus nephritis, by the University of Michigan Adult Rheumatology Fellowship ProgramCD-19 CAR T-cell therapy, by the Vanderbilt University Adult Rheumatology Fellowship ProgramSTRAP trial, by the Emerging EULAR Network (EMEUNET)Links to theMednet.org Q&As about this region:In the treatment of lupus nephritis, which patients may benefit from the use of rituximab or other B-cell depleting agents during induction?What are the potential barriers to the widespread use of obinutuzumab in proliferative lupus nephritis?How do you envision incorporating CAR-T therapy into your clinical practice?Does synovial biopsy provide diagnostic value in undifferentiated inflammatory arthritis?To learn more about RheumMadness:https://sites.duke.edu/rheummadness/Subscribe to our newsletter:https://lists.duke.edu/sympa/subscribe/rheummadnessFind us on social media:Bluesky: @rheummadness.bsky.socialInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rheummadness/X: Follow #RheumMadnessIntro/outro music: Cheery Monday by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3495-cheery-mondayLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

In this episode we discuss obinutuzumab for lupus nephritis and anti-CD19 CAR T Cell therapy for autoimmune rheumatic disease.   Links to the B-Cell Breakaway Scouting Reports:Obinutuzumab in lupus nephritis, by the University of Michigan Adult Rheumatology Fellowship ProgramCD-19 CAR T-cell therapy, by the Vanderbilt University Adult Rheumatology Fellowship ProgramSTRAP trial, by the Emerging EULAR Network (EMEUNET)Links to theMednet.org Q&As about this region:In the treatment of lupus nephritis, which patients may benefit from the use of rituximab or other B-cell depleting agents during induction?What are the potential barriers to the widespread use of obinutuzumab in proliferative lupus nephritis?How do you envision incorporating CAR-T therapy into your clinical practice?Does synovial biopsy provide diagnostic value in undifferentiated inflammatory arthritis?To learn more about RheumMadness:https://sites.duke.edu/rheummadness/Subscribe to our newsletter:https://lists.duke.edu/sympa/subscribe/rheummadnessFind us on social media:Bluesky: @rheummadness.bsky.socialInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rheummadness/X: Follow #RheumMadnessIntro/outro music: Cheery Monday by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3495-cheery-mondayLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

In this episode we present part 2 of our conversation about the teams in the Full Court Care Champions region of RheumMadness 2025!Links to the Full Court Care Champions Scouting Reports:Cost-effectiveness of hydroxychloroquine retinopathy screening, by residents from the Lankenau Medical Center Internal Medicine Residency ProgramSteroid dose in lupus nephritis, by the Washington University in St. Louis (WUSTL) Adult Rheumatology Fellowship ProgramSGCAPS prediction tool, by the Medical College of Wisconsin Adult Rheumatology Fellowship Program.Links to theMednet.org Q&As about this region:How do you optimize retinopathy screening schedules for patients on hydroxychloroquine while also prioritizing cost-effectiveness?What steroid regimen do you typically use for induction therapy in patients with lupus nephritis?How do you make the decision to empirically treat for GCA when a patient is referred but cannot be immediately seen in clinic?To learn more about RheumMadness:https://sites.duke.edu/rheummadness/Subscribe to our newsletter:https://lists.duke.edu/sympa/subscribe/rheummadnessFind us on social media:Bluesky: @rheummadness.bsky.socialInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rheummadness/X: Follow #RheumMadnessIntro/outro music: Cheery Monday by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3495-cheery-mondayLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

In this episode we dive into the teams in the Full Court Care Champions region of RheumMadness 2025!Links to the Full Court Care Champions Scouting Reports:Cost-effectiveness of hydroxychloroquine retinopathy screening, by residents from the Lankenau Medical Center Internal Medicine Residency ProgramSteroid dose in lupus nephritis, by the Washington University in St. Louis (WUSTL) Adult Rheumatology Fellowship ProgramSGCAPS prediction tool, by the Medical College of Wisconsin Adult Rheumatology Fellowship Program.Links to theMednet.org Q&As about this region:How do you optimize retinopathy screening schedules for patients on hydroxychloroquine while also prioritizing cost-effectiveness?What steroid regimen do you typically use for induction therapy in patients with lupus nephritis?How do you make the decision to empirically treat for GCA when a patient is referred but cannot be immediately seen in clinic?To learn more about RheumMadness:https://sites.duke.edu/rheummadness/Subscribe to our newsletter:https://lists.duke.edu/sympa/subscribe/rheummadnessFind us on social media:Bluesky: @rheummadness.bsky.socialInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rheummadness/X: Follow #RheumMadnessIntro/outro music: Cheery Monday by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3495-cheery-mondayLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

This episode contains part 2 of our conversation with Michael Macklin, MD, PharmD, Assistant Professor of Medicine at the University of Chicago, about the Cytokine Crushers region of RheumMadness 2025.In this episode, we focus specifically on the TYK2 in SLE and Oral Anti-IL23 teams. Links to the Cytokine Crushers Scouting Reports:Oral anti-IL23, by collaborating Chicago area rheumatology fellowship programs (Loyola, Northwestern, and the University of Chicago)Long-term outcomes of anifrolumab in SLE, by the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) Adult Rheumatology FellowshipTYK2 inhibitor in SLE, by the University of North Carolina (UNC) Adult Rheumatology FellowshipLinks to theMednet.org Q&As about this region:What circumstances would drive you to consider using an oral IL-23 inhibitor over parenteral options for management of psoriasis/PsA?How will you utilize newly FDA approved anifrolumab for SLE in your practice?What is your experience with using oral deucravicitinib for conditions such as recalcitrant facial discoid lupus or recalcitrant lichen planus?To learn more about RheumMadness:https://sites.duke.edu/rheummadness/Subscribe to our newsletter:https://lists.duke.edu/sympa/subscribe/rheummadnessFind us on social media:Bluesky: @rheummadness.bsky.socialInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rheummadness/X: Follow #RheumMadnessIntro/outro music: Cheery Monday by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3495-cheery-mondayLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

In this episode, we are joined by Michael Macklin, MD, PharmD, Assistant Professor of Medicine at the University of Chicago, to discuss the teams in the Cytokine Crushers region of RheumMadness 2025, the Innovation Invitational.This is part 1 of the conversation, where we go in depth about the long-term outcomes of anifrolumab in SLE study and give a primer about type 1/2 cytokines so you're ready to dig into the TYK2 in SLE and Oral Anti-IL23 studies.Join us again next week for part 2 of this discussion to learn more about this region.Links to the Cytokine Crushers Scouting Reports:Oral anti-IL23, by collaborating Chicago area rheumatology fellowship programs (Loyola, Northwestern, and the University of Chicago)Long-term outcomes of anifrolumab in SLE, by the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) Adult Rheumatology FellowshipTYK2 inhibitor in SLE, by the University of North Carolina (UNC) Adult Rheumatology FellowshipLinks to old scouting reports and other studies referenced in this podcast:TULIP 1/2 scouting report from RheumMadness 2021LLDAS scouting report from RheumMadness 2024Morand EF, Abreu G, Furie RA, Golder V, Tummala R. Lupus low disease activity state attainment in the phase 3 TULIP trials of anifrolumab in active systemic lupus erythematosus. Ann Rheum Dis. 2023 May;82(5):639-645. doi: 10.1136/ard-2022-222748. Epub 2023 Jan 23. Erratum in: Ann Rheum Dis. 2024 Apr 11;83(5):e12. doi: 10.1136/ard-2022-222748corr1. PMID: 36690388; PMCID: PMC10176410.Tanaka Y. Viewpoint on anifrolumab in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus and a high unmet need in clinical practice. RMD Open. 2023 Aug;9(3):e003270. doi: 10.1136/rmdopen-2023-003270. Erratum in: RMD Open. 2024 Apr 4;10(2):e003270corr1. doi: 10.1136/rmdopen-2023-003270corr1. PMID: 37597847; PMCID: PMC10441065.ORAL Surveillance scouting report from RheumMadness 2024To learn more about RheumMadness:https://sites.duke.edu/rheummadness/Subscribe to our newsletter:https://lists.duke.edu/sympa/subscribe/rheummadnessFind us on social media:Bluesky: @rheummadness.bsky.socialInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rheummadness/X: Follow #RheumMadnessIntro/outro music: Cheery Monday by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3495-cheery-mondayLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

In this episode, we present the second part of our conversation with the authors of the scouting reports for the teams in the T'd Up T-cells region of RheumMadness 2025: the Innovation Invitational.  Plus, we highlight Q&As from theMednet.org about the T'd Up T-Cells teams AND record an interview with Dr. Bill St. Clair, the first author of the phase 2 dazodalibep study.  It's a long episode because there's so much content!Links to the Q&As from theMednet.org discussed in this episode:What is your approach to managing sicca symptoms in patients not responding or not tolerating conservative measures, pilocarpine, and cevimeline?What is your approach to immunomodulatory treatment in patients with Sjogren's syndrome who have active serologies (i.e. elevated ESR, hypergammaglobulinemia, hypocomplementemia) but minimal symptoms?What is your approach to monitoring patients referred for high titer +RF and +CCP but without active symptoms of inflammatory arthritis?What factors drive you to prioritize T vs B cell inhibition when choosing therapies for patients with refractory SLE?To learn more about RheumMadness:https://sites.duke.edu/rheummadness/Subscribe to our newsletter:https://lists.duke.edu/sympa/subscribe/rheummadnessFind us on social media:Bluesky: @rheummadness.bsky.socialInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rheummadness/X: Follow #RheumMadnessIntro/outro music: Cheery Monday by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3495-cheery-mondayLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

In this episode, we dive in to the T'd Up T-cells region of RheumMadness 2025: the Innovation Invitational.  This is the first of a two-part conversation with the authors of the scouting reports for the teams in this region.  Check back next week to hear the rest of the conversation!To find the scouting reports and base articles discussed in this episode, head over to the scouting reports page of our website here:https://sites.duke.edu/rheummadness/bracket-and-scouting-reports/ To learn more about RheumMadness:https://sites.duke.edu/rheummadness/Find us on social media:Bluesky: @rheummadness.bsky.socialInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rheummadness/X: Follow #RheumMadnessIntro/outro music: Cheery Monday by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3495-cheery-mondayLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Welcome back to RheumMadness, the place for everyone who is crazy about rheumatology to connect, collaborate, compete, and learn together. The podcast took a hiatus in 2024 (hence why there are no episodes labeled season 4), but we we are thrilled to announce that the podcast is back for 2025 and beyond.  In this episode, we explain some changes to the RheumMadness format and get you ready to experience everything this season has to offer.Find out more on the RheumMadness website:https://sites.duke.edu/rheummadness/Find us on social media:Bluesky: @rheummadness.bsky.socialInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rheummadness/X: Follow #RheumMadnessIntro/outro music: Cheery Monday by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3495-cheery-mondayLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

In this episode, we are joined by two Blue Ribbon Panel members (Dr. Julie Paik and Dr. Angus Worthing) to recap the results of RheumMadness 2023. Plus, we hear from Dr. Nina Couette to review all the RheumMadness-related content on theMednet.org.Find out more on the RheumMadness website: https://sites.duke.edu/rheummadness/Intro/outro music: Cheery Monday by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3495-cheery-mondayLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

For this episode, we invited anyone who wanted to join us for a live group discussion about the All Star Season.  The result?  Our first international guest on the podcast, two more fellow scouting report authors, and a ton of fun.  Plus, hear Guy Katz make his picks (so you know who not to pick in the tournament), and hear a rundown of what we think the Blue Ribbon Panel might do. RheumMadness website: https://sites.duke.edu/rheummadness/Intro/outro music:Cheery Monday by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3495-cheery-mondayLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

In this episode, we discuss the right side of the bracket for RheumMadness 2023 with the scouting report authors. (Part 2 of 2)RheumMadness website: https://sites.duke.edu/rheummadness/Intro/outro music:Cheery Monday by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3495-cheery-mondayLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

In this episode, we discuss the right side of the bracket for RheumMadness 2023 with the scouting report authors. (Part 1 of 2)RheumMadness website: https://sites.duke.edu/rheummadness/Intro/outro music:Cheery Monday by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3495-cheery-mondayLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

In this episode, we discuss the left side of the bracket for RheumMadness 2023 with the scouting report authors. (Part 2 of 2)RheumMadness website: https://sites.duke.edu/rheummadness/Intro/outro music:Cheery Monday by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3495-cheery-mondayLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

In this episode, we discuss the left side of the bracket for RheumMadness 2023 with the scouting report authors. (Part 1 of 2)RheumMadness website: https://sites.duke.edu/rheummadness/Intro/outro music:Cheery Monday by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3495-cheery-mondayLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

In this podcast, we introduce the RheumMadness 2023 tournament and describe how to play.RheumMadness Website: https://sites.duke.edu/rheummadness/Intro/outro music:Cheery Monday by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3495-cheery-mondayLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

In RheumMadness 2023, EVERYONE can apply to write a scouting report about ANY TEAM that they think is worthy of the title.Learn how to apply here:https://sites.duke.edu/rheummadness/If you'd like to write a scouting report but don't have a group to write one with, please email us at David.Leverenz@Duke.eduIntro and Outro music:Cheery Monday by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3495-cheery-mondayLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

In this episode, we reflect on RheumMadness 2022 with members of our leadership team and a Blue Ribbon Panel member (Belinda Birnbaum). RheumMadness 2022 Post-Survey: https://duke.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cMjmiMoQNP0XKGWLearn more about Vote-ER, a non-partisan organization that helps patients register to vote.https://vot-er.org/  RheumMadness Website: https://sites.duke.edu/rheummadnessPodcast Hosts: David Leverenz, Assistant Professor at DukeBelinda Birnbaum, Blue Ribbon Panelist and rheumatologist at the Bryn Mawr Medical Specialists Association in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania. Guy Katz, rheumatology fellow at MGH, leadership team memberLauren He, internal medicine resident at U Chicago, leadership team memberBen Kellog, internal medicine resident at Duke, leadership team memberIntro and Outro music:Cheery Monday by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3495-cheery-mondayLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

In this episode, we recap the first two rounds of RheumMadness 2022. We are joined by a Blue Ribbon Panelist (Iman Qaiser) who shares what it's been like to be on the panel. Hosts: David Leverenz, Assistant Professor at DukeIman Qaiser, Blue Ribbon Panelist and rheumatology fellow at LSU Health ShreveportGuy Katz, rheumatology fellow at MGHMichael Macklin, internal medicine resident at UPMCBen Kellog, internal medicine resident at DukeSubscribe to our newsletter at our website: https://sites.duke.edu/rheummadnessIntro and Outro music:Cheery Monday by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3495-cheery-mondayLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Everything you need to know about the RheumMadness tournament.Find the scouting reports and submit a bracket here:https://www.tourneytopia.com/rheummadness/tournamentIntro and Outro music:Cheery Monday by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3495-cheery-mondayLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

In this episode, we discuss the teams in the People region of the RheumMadness 2022 Tournament. Our DEI discussion topic is disparities in reproductive health care in rheumatology.Hosts: David Leverenz (Assistant Professor at Duke), Lauren He (resident at the University of Chicago), Cuoghi Edens (Assistant Professor of Medicine and Pediatrics at the University of Chicago), Catherine Sims (Fellow at Duke), and Stacy Bagrova (Fellow at USF). Subscribe to our newsletter at our website: https://sites.duke.edu/rheummadnessArticles on disparities in reproductive health care in rheumatology:Kaplowitz ET, Ferguson S, Guerra M, et al. Contribution of Socioeconomic Status to Racial/Ethnic Disparities in Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes Among Women With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. Arthritis Care Res (Hoboken). 2018;70(2):230-235. doi:10.1002/acr.23263Clowse ME, Grotegut C. Racial and Ethnic Disparities in the Pregnancies of Women With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. Arthritis Care Res (Hoboken). 2016;68(10):1567-1572. doi:10.1002/acr.22847Scouting Reports:Reproductive Health Guide, written by the Duke University Rheumatology Fellowship Program: Catherine Sims, MD; Sonali Bracken, MD, PhD; Megan Milne, MD; Nathaniel Harris, MD, PhD; Poorva Apte, MD; Lena Eder, MD; Lisa Criscione-Schreiber, MD, Med; Megan Clowse, MD; & David Leverenz, MDTNFi in Cord Blood, written by Lauren He, MD & Cuoghi Edens, MD from the University of Chicago School of MedicineIncreasing positive ANA, written by Lauren He, MD; Ana B. Arevalo, MD; & Kichul Ko, MD from the University of Chicago School of MedicineFalse positive MRI in Axial Spondyloarthritis, written by the University of South Florida Rheumatology Fellowship Program: Anastasiya (Stacy) Bagrova, MD; Shreya Gor, MD; Joanne Valeriano-Marcet, MD; Larry Young, MD; & John Carter, MDIntro and Outro music:Cheery Monday by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3495-cheery-mondayLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

In this episode, we discuss the teams in the Machines region of the RheumMadness 2022 Tournament. Our DEI discussion topic is disparities in pediatric rheumatology.Hosts: David Leverenz (Assistant Professor at Duke), Malki Peskin (pediatric rheumatology fellow at Montefiore), Sean Carter (fellow at MUSC), Perry Fuchs (fellow at Cleveland Clinic), Akrithi Garren (Assistant Professor at Georgetown/Medstar), Lisa Criscione-Schreiber (Professor at Duke) Subscribe to our newsletter at our website: https://sites.duke.edu/rheummadnessReference article on disparities in pediatric rheumatology: Akinsete AM, Woo JMP, Rubinstein TB. Disparities in Pediatric Rheumatic Diseases. Rheum Dis Clin North Am. 2022;48(1):183-198. doi:10.1016/j.rdc.2021.09.014Scouting Reports:Artificial Intelligence: JIA Subtypes, written by the Children's Hospital at Montefiore Pediatric Rheumatology Fellowship Program: Alisha Akinsete, MD; Malki Peskin, MD; & Jessica Perfetto, MDArtificial Intelligence: TNFi Response, written by the Cleveland Clinic Foundation Rheumatology Fellowship Program: Saja Almaaitah, MD; Shashank Cheemalavagu, MD; Rupal Shastri, MD; Perry Fuchs, MD; Melany Gonzalez Orta, MD; & James Vondenberg,DECT in Gout, written by the MedStar Georgetown Washington Hospital Center: Leen Al Saleh, MD; Ajita Acharya, MD; Elena Obreja, MD; & Akrithi U. Garren, MDPET in LVV, written by the Medical University of South Carolina Rheumatology Fellowship Program: Sean Carter, MD; Jessica English, MD; Brad Collins, DO; Ana Tucker, MD; Jen Schmidt, MD; Whitney Elg-Salsman, DO; & Faye Hant, DOIntro and Outro music:Cheery Monday by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3495-cheery-mondayLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

In this episode, we discuss the teams in the Animal House region of the 2022 RheumMadness Tournament. Our DEI discussion topic is disparities in osteoarthritis and gout.Hosts: David Leverenz (Assistant Professor of Medicine at Duke), Ben Kellog (resident at Duke), Melissa Defoe (fellow at UTSW), Nagendra Pokala (fellow at UTSW), Evan Dombrosky (fellow at VCU), Khiem Vu (fellow at Wake Forest), and Jesse Reisner (fellow at Ohio State).Learn more about RheumMadness by visiting our website: https://sites.duke.edu/rheummadnessReferences:Axolotl Limb scouting report by the fellows at Wake Forest Fellowship ProgramDinosaur SpA scouting report by the fellows at Virginia Commonwealth University Fellowship ProgramDalmatian Urate scouting report by the fellows at UT Southwestern Fellowship ProgramDog Osteoarthritis scouting report by the fellows at Ohio State Fellowship ProgramArticle on disparities in osteoarthritis: Usiskin I, Misra D. Racial Disparities in Elective Total Joint Arthroplasty for Osteoarthritis [published online ahead of print, 2022 Jan 5]. ACR Open Rheumatol. 2022;10.1002/acr2.11399. doi:10.1002/acr2.11399Article on disparities in gout: Guillén AG, Te Karu L, Singh JA, Dalbeth N. Gender and Ethnic Inequities in Gout Burden and Management. Rheum Dis Clin North Am. 2020;46(4):693-703. doi:10.1016/j.rdc.2020.07.008Intro and Outro music:Cheery Monday by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3495-cheery-mondayLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

In this episode, we discuss the teams in the Cells region of the 2022 RheumMadness Tournament. Our DEI discussion topic is increasing diversity in rheumatology clinical trials.Hosts: David Leverenz (Assistant Professor of Medicine at Duke), Guy Katz (Fellow at MGH), Michael Macklin (Resident at UPMC), Michael Cunningham (Fellow at UNC)Learn more about RheumMadness by visiting our website: https://sites.duke.edu/rheummadnessReferences: Anti-NET antibodies: Zuo Y, Yalavarthi S, Gockman K, et al. Anti-Neutrophil Extracellular Trap Antibodies and Impaired Neutrophil Extracellular Trap Degradation in Antiphospholipid Syndrome. Arthritis Rheumatol. 2020;72(12):2130-2135. doi:10.1002/art.41460 Cytokine networks: Simon Q, Grasseau A, Boudigou M, et al. A Proinflammatory Cytokine Network Profile in Th1/Type 1 Effector B Cells Delineates a Common Group of Patients in Four Systemic Autoimmune Diseases. Arthritis Rheumatol. 2021;73(8):1550-1561. doi:10.1002/art.41697 CAR-T cells (1): Mougiakakos D, Krönke G, Völkl S, et al. CD19-Targeted CAR T Cells in Refractory Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. N Engl J Med. 2021;385(6):567-569. doi:10.1056/NEJMc2107725 CAR-T cells (2): Orvain C, Boulch M, Bousso P, Allanore Y, Avouac J. Is There a Place for Chimeric Antigen Receptor-T Cells in the Treatment of Chronic Autoimmune Rheumatic Diseases?. Arthritis Rheumatol. 2021;73(11):1954-1965. doi:10.1002/art.41812 Pim kinases: Maney NJ, Lemos H, Barron-Millar B, et al. Pim Kinases as Therapeutic Targets in Early Rheumatoid Arthritis. Arthritis Rheumatol. 2021;73(10):1820-1830. doi:10.1002/art.41744 SLE clinical trial diversity: Falasinnu T, Chaichian Y, Bass MB, Simard JF. The Representation of Gender and Race/Ethnic Groups in Randomized Clinical Trials of Individuals with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. Curr Rheumatol Rep. 2018;20(4):20. Published 2018 Mar 17. doi:10.1007/s11926-018-0728-2 RA clinical trial diversity: Strait A, Castillo F, Choden S, et al. Demographic Characteristics of Participants in Rheumatoid Arthritis Randomized Clinical Trials: A Systematic Review. JAMA Netw Open. 2019;2(11):e1914745. Published 2019 Nov 1. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2019.14745Critical race theory and SLE trial enrollment: Sneed RS, Mason M, Williams JN, et al. Using Critical Race Theory to Understand Trial Participation Among Black Individuals With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Qualitative Study of Patients and Caregivers. Arthritis Care Res (Hoboken). 2021;73(10):1387-1395. doi:10.1002/acr.24635 Intro and Outro music:Cheery Monday by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3495-cheery-mondayLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

In this episode, we give a preview of the regions that will be in the RheumMadness 2022 bracket. Our DEI discussion topic is the need to increase diversity in rheumatology training.Hosts: David Leverenz, Lisa Criscione-Schreiber, Guy Katz, Courtney Bair, Ben Kellog.Reference: Santhosh & Babik. Trends in Racial and Ethnic Diversity in Internal Medicine Subspecialty Fellowships From 2006 to 2018. JAMA Network Open. 2020;3(2):e1920482. Learn more about RheumMadness by visiting our website: https://sites.duke.edu/rheummadnessIntro and Outro music:Cheery Monday by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3495-cheery-mondayLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

A quick update on our plans for RheumMadness 2022.  Don't worry - we are still going strong!To learn more about RheumMadness:RheumMadness Website: https://sites.duke.edu/rheummadnessArticle in the Rheumatologist: https://www.the-rheumatologist.org/article/rheummadness-an-educational-tournament/ If you'd like to join our team or help write a scouting report, please contact us at david.leverenz@duke.edu or on Twitter (message @DavidLeverenz or just tweet using #RheumMadness).Intro and Outro music:Cheery Monday by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3495-cheery-mondayLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

In this episode, we are joined by the one and only Dr. Matt Sparks, co-creator of NephMadness, the game that started it all and one of our primary mentors in making RheumMadness. We are also joined by the entire RheumMadness leadership team: Aki Udupa, Didem Saygin, Guy Katz, and Allen Witt.  This episode has everything:Reflections on the first year of the tournamentThe true identify of Rheum BOSSHagfish tattoosEngagement numbers from RheumMadness2021What's next for RheumMadnessLearn more about RheumMadness here: https://sites.duke.edu/rheummadness/If you're interested in getting involved in planning next year's tournament, contact David.Leverenz@Duke.eduIntro and Outro music:Cheery Monday by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3495-cheery-mondayLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

In this episode, Drs. David Leverenz, Lisa Criscione-Schreiber, Akrithi Udupa, and Guy Katz discuss the results of the first two rounds of RheumMadness and look forward to the IgG Four and the Interleukin Two matchups.  We discuss:-RheumMadness Engagement-Biggest Upsets / Closest Matchups-Best Twitter Moments-Best Bracket Names-Who we think will win it allLearn more about RheumMadness here: https://sites.duke.edu/rheummadness/Intro and Outro music:Cheery Monday by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3495-cheery-mondayLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

In this episode, the fantastic Dr. Lisa Criscione-Schreiber (crucial mentor for the RheumMadness team) reads out the scouting reports for the SLE & ANCA regions of the tournament.   Feel free to skip this episode if you've already read the reports.  Find the reports and learn more about RheumMadness here: https://sites.duke.edu/rheummadness/Scouting reports included in this episode:Belimumab for Lupus Nephritis, written by the Duke University School of Medicine Adult Rheumatology Fellowship Program; Aki Udupa, Ryan Anderson, Isaac Smith, Poorva Apte, Megan Milne, Catherine Sims, Lisa Criscione-Schreiber, and David LeverenzAnifrolumab for SLE, written by the Medical University of South Carolina Adult Rheumatology Fellowship Program; Sarah Compton, Sam Minkin, Whitney Elg-Salsman, Ana Tucker, and Jen SchmidtPEXIVAS for ANCA vasculitis, written by the Medical College of Wisconsin Adult Rheumatology Fellowship ProgramAvacpoan for ANCA vasculitis, written by the Northwestern University Adult Rheumatology Fellowship Program; Kaitlin Lima, Michael Lopker, Yoon Qiu, Julia SunIntro and Outro music:Cheery Monday by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3495-cheery-mondayLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

In this episode, the fantastic Dr. Lisa Criscione-Schreiber (crucial mentor for the RheumMadness team) reads out the scouting reports for the Miscellaneous and Small but Mighty regions of the tournament.   Feel free to skip this episode if you've already read the reports.  Find the reports and learn more about RheumMadness here: https://sites.duke.edu/rheummadness/Scouting reports included in this episode:IgG4-RD Classification Criteria, written by the Massachusetts General Hospital Adult Rheumatology Fellowship Program; Guy Katz, MD; Ian Cooley, MD; Duncan F Moore, MD; Naomi Patel, MDRelapsing Polychondritis Subtypes, written by the Wake Forest School of Medicine Adult Rheumatology Fellowship Program; Page Bomar, Rami Diab, John Herion, Yael KlionskyAnti-CD38 in Refractory Lupus, written by the University of North Carolina Adult Rheumatology Fellowship Program; Leah Bettner, Shruti Chandramouli, Amanda Lusa, Christopher Overton, and Enid SunVEXAS, written by the RheumMadness Leadership TeamIntro and Outro music:Cheery Monday by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3495-cheery-mondayLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

In this episode, we read the scouting reports on the teams in the steroids & MSK regions of the tournament.  Feel free to skip this episode if you've already read the reports.  Find the reports and learn more about RheumMadness here: https://sites.duke.edu/rheummadness/Scouting reports included in this episode:SEMIRA, written by the Allegheny Health Network Adult Rheumatology Fellowship Program; Osman Bhatty MD, Padmini Parameswaran MD, Christon Grant MD, Mohamed Tageldin, MD, Michael Lucke, MDHarms of Short Term Steroids, written by the University of Kentucky Adult Rheumatology Fellowship Program; Amna Batool, Susan Mansourian, Elise McVeigh, Saurav Suman, Kristine LohrUK Frost for Frozen Shoulder, written by C. Allen Witt (RheumMadness Leadership Team)PT vs. GC Injection for Knee OA, written by the Oschner Medical Center Adult Rheumatology Fellowship Program; Dr. Ronak Patel, Dr. Chad Hille, and Dr. Chandana KeshavamurthyIntro and Outro music:Cheery Monday by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3495-cheery-mondayLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

In this episode, we read the scouting reports on the RA and gout teams in the tournament.  Feel free to skip this episode if you've already read the reports.  Find the reports and learn more about RheumMadness here: https://sites.duke.edu/rheummadness/Scouting reports included in this episode:PRIME Cells in RA, written by the University of Colorado Adult Rheumatology Fellowship ProgramSynovial B Cells & Therapy Response in RA (R4RA), written by the Vanderbilt University School of Medicine Adult Rheumatology Fellowship ProgramFAST Study, written by the University of Chicago Adult Rheumatology Fellowship Program; Didem Saygin, Emily Peninger, Laarni Quimson, Marco Lopez-Velazquez, Kichul KoACR Gout Guidelines, written by the Loma Linda University Adult Rheumatology Fellowship Program; Donna Jose, MD and Marven Cabling, MDIntro and Outro music:Cheery Monday by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3495-cheery-mondayLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

New to RheumMadness?  Want to submit a bracket but don't know where to start?  Listen to this episode for a brief explainer on how RheumMadness works.  Learn more about RheumMadness here: https://sites.duke.edu/rheummadness/Intro and Outro music:Cheery Monday by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3495-cheery-mondayLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

In this episode David Leverenz, Aki Udupa, Didem Saygin, and Guy Katz discuss the second half of the RheumMadness bracket.  The first half was covered in the previous episode (Bracketology Part 1).  You can learn more about RheumMadness here: https://sites.duke.edu/rheummadness/References for topics discussed in this episodeSEMIRA Study in RA: Burmester et al. Lancet.2020;396(10246):267-76 (pubmed link)Harms of Short Term Steroids: Yao et al. Ann Intern Med.2020;173(5):325-30 (pubmed link)UK FROST Trial for Frozen Shoulder: Rangan et al. Lancet.2020;396(10256):977-89 (pubmed link)PT vs. GC Injection for Knee Osteoarthritis: Deyle et al. NEJM.2020;382(15):1420-29 (pubmed link)PRIME Cells in RA: Orange et al. NEJM.2020;383(3):218-28 (pubmed link)Synovial B Cells and Therapy Response in RA: Humby et al. Lancet.2021;397(10271):305-17 (pubmed link)FAST Study in Gout: Mackenzie et al. Lancet.2020;396(10264):1745-57 (pubmed link)ACR 2020 Gout Guidelines: Fitzgerald et al. AC&R.2020;72(6):744-60 (pubmed link)Intro and Outro music:Cheery Monday by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3495-cheery-mondayLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

In this episode David Leverenz, Aki Udupa, Didem Saygin, and Guy Katz introduce the first half of the RheumMadness bracket.  The second half will be covered in the next episode (Bracketology Part 2).  You can learn more about RheumMadness here: https://sites.duke.edu/rheummadness/References for topics discussed in this episodeBelimumab for Lupus Nephritis: Furie et al. NEJM.2020;383(12):1117-28 (pubmed link)Anifrolumab for SLE: TULIP-1 and TULIP-2 trials (click for links)PEXIVAS in ANCA Vasculitis: Walsh et al. NEJM.2020;382(7):622-31 (pubmed link)Avacopan in ANCA Vasculitis: Jayne et al. NEJM.2021;384:599-609 (NEJM link)IgG4-RD Classification Criteria: Wallace et al. A&R.2020;72(1):7-19 (pubmed link)Relapsing Polychondritis (RP) Subtypes: Ferrada et al. A&R.2020;72(8):1396-1402 (pubmed link)Anti-CD38 in Refractory SLE: Ostendorf et al. NEJM.2020;383(12):1149-55 (pubmed link)VEXAS: Beck et al, NEJM.2020;383:2628-38 (pubmed link)Intro and Outro music:Cheery Monday by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3495-cheery-mondayLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

In this episode we welcome Dr. Didem Saygin, a rheumatology fellow from the University of Chicago, to the podcast.  We are also joined by Dr. Guy Katz, a rheumatology fellow from MGH.  We discuss three more topics that would be excellent teams in the upcoming RheumMadness tournament: the newly discovered VEXAS autoinflammatory syndrome, the FAST trial on cardiovascular safety of urate-lowering therapies, and the PEXIVAS trial in ANCA vasculitis. New RheumMadness website! https://sites.duke.edu/rheummadness/References:VEXAS: https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2026834FAST: https://www.thelancet.com/article/S0140-6736(20)32234-0/fulltextPEXIVAS: https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa1803537 RheumMadness Music Attribution: Cheery Monday by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3495-cheery-mondayLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

In this episode we welcome guests Dr. Akrithi Udupa and Dr. Allen Witt from Duke, and Dr. Guy Katz from MGH to discuss four topics from the 2020 ACR Convergence conference that could be teams in the upcoming RheumMadness tournament.  The topics we discuss are:1. Draft 2020 RA Guidelines2. Belimumab for Lupus Nephritis3. Pregnancy with ILD in Rheumatic Disease4. IL-16 as a Biomarker of Lupus NephritisRheumMadness Music Attribution: Cheery Monday by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3495-cheery-mondayLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Dr. Aki Udupa and Dr. Allen Witt are back to discuss:-Rheuminders from the previous episode on relapsing polychondritis subtypes-Primer on RA pathophysiology-A new study (see below) using longitudinal genomics to provide new insights into the pathogenesis of RA flares and describing a new type of cell: PRIME cells.Reference: Orange DE, Yao V, Sawicka K, Fak J, Frank MO, Parveen S, Blachere NE, Hale C, Zhang F, Raychaudhuri S, Troyanskaya OG, Darnell RB. RNA Identification of PRIME Cells Predicting Rheumatoid Arthritis Flares. N Engl J Med. 2020 Jul 16;383(3):218-228. doi: 10.1056/NEJMoa2004114. PMID: 32668112; PMCID: PMC7546156.Intro and Outro music: Cheery Monday by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3495-cheery-mondayLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

This episode includes:-Rheuminders from the previous episode on IgG4-RD classification criteria-Primer on relapsing polychondritis-Discussion of a new paper (see below) describing 3 clinical subtypes of relapsing polychondritisReference: Ferrada M, Rimland CA, Quinn K, Sikora K, Kim J, Allen C, Sirajuddin A, Goodspeed W, Chen M, Grayson PC. Defining Clinical Subgroups in Relapsing Polychondritis: A Prospective Observational Cohort Study. Arthritis Rheumatol. 2020 Apr 6. doi: 10.1002/art.41270. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 32249511.Intro and Outro music: Cheery Monday by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3495-cheery-mondayLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Dr. Akrithi Udupa (fellow at Duke) and Dr. Allen Witt (resident at Duke) join the podcast to discuss IgG4-RD and the new classification criteria published by Wallace et al in Arthritis & Rheumatology in January 2020.Reference: Wallace et al. The 2019 American College of Rheumatology / European League Against Rheumatism Classification Criteria for IgG4-Related Disease. Arthritis & Rheumatology. 2020;72(1):7-19.Intro and Outro music: Cheery Monday by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3495-cheery-mondayLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Introduction to the RheumMadness Podcast!Intro and Outro music: Cheery Monday by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3495-cheery-mondayLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/