David S. Hallegua

American College of Rheumatology/Spondylitis Association of America/Spondyloarthritis Research and Treatment Network 2015 Recommendations for the Treatment of Ankylosing Spondylitis and Nonradiographic Axial Spondyloarthritis

To provide evidence‐based recommendations for the treatment of patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS) and nonradiographic axial spondyloarthritis (SpA).

Gastrointestinal manifestations of systemic lupus erythematosus.

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) can involve any part of the gastrointestinal tract. In this review, we list the gastrointestinal manifestations of SLE and analyze current approaches in investigating and treating these common conditions. Abdominal symptoms and signs may be due to SLE or due to medications used in the treatment of SLE. In patients with abdominal pain and active SLE, it is critical to diagnose vasculitis or thrombosis with appropriate scanning and institute early immunosuppressive or surgical treatment. Curr Opin Rheum 2000, 12:379–385

Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth: A Possible Association with Fibromyalgia

Objectives: Subjects with fibromyalgia [FMS] frequently have non specific bowel complaints similar to subjects with small intestinal bacterial over growth [SIBO]. The aim of this study was to test whether 1. SIBO is prevalent in FMS and 2. If treatment of SIBO reduces bowel symptoms. Methods: Of 815 subjects under going lactulose hydrogen breath testing for assessment of SIBO, 123 patients had FMS. Those with SIBO were treated with antibiotics. At the initial and follow-up visits, subjects were asked to rate their symptoms. Symptom scores be fore and after treatment were com pared. Results: Of the 123 subjects with FMS, 96 [78%] were found to have SIBO. Returning subjects reported a 57 ± 29% over all improvement in symptoms with significant improvement in bloating, gas, abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, joint pains, and fatigue [P < 0.05]. Conclusions: 1. Small intestinal bacterial over growth is associated with FMS, 2. Eradication of SIBO improves intestinal symptoms in FMS.

American College of Rheumatology/Spondylitis Association of America/Spondyloarthritis Research and Treatment Network 2015 Recommendations for the Treatment of Ankylosing Spondylitis and Nonradiographic Axial Spondyloarthritis: ACR/SAA/Spartan Treatment Recommendations in AS

To provide evidence‐based recommendations for the treatment of patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS) and nonradiographic axial spondyloarthritis (SpA).

Prevalence of Fibromyalgia in Growth Hormone Deficient Adults

Objective: To demonstrate if growth hormone [GH] deficiency is associated with fibromyalgia [FMS]. Methods: The prevalence of FMS was evaluated in 19 adults with GH deficiency who were randomized to either GH or placebo replacement. Results: Of the nine patients on GH, one patient fulfilled criteria for FMS compared to four out of 10 patients on placebo. Conclusion: Growth hormone deficiency may be associated with FMS.