Social Security Work Disability and Its Predictors in Patients with Fibromyalgia: 25 Years of Followup
Abstract format and assignment number: Oral presentation 0794
Presenting author: S. K. Gandhi (USA)
Date: Saturday, 16th November 2024
This study investigated Social Security Disability (SSD) trends and predictors in fibromyalgia (FM) using data from a 25-year longitudinal design within the Forward Databank. Including participants aged 18–65 years with an FM diagnosis (n=2,648) and comparison groups (FM+RA/OA), it revealed that SSD approval rates for FM remain lower than for RA/OA. Functional status emerged as a key predictor, underlining the potential impact of addressing symptom burden to improve disability assessments and outcomes.
High-Intensity Interval Training Outperforms Moderate Exercise in Aerobic Capacity for Recent-Onset Idiopathic Inflammatory Myopathies: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Abstract format and assignment number: Oral presentation 1735
Presenting author: K. Andreasson (Sweden)
Date: Sunday, November 17, 2024
This RCT evaluated High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) versus moderate-intensity home-based training (CON) in 23 patients with recent-onset idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIM). HIIT significantly improved exercise capacity (peakVO2 +16.2%) and muscle mitochondrial protein expression, demonstrating adaptations in aerobic metabolism. Both protocols were well-tolerated, with CON showing improvements in muscle strength (MMT8) and physician global activity. These findings support HIIT as a safe, effective approach for enhancing physical capacity in early IIM, potentially informing future exercise guidelines.
Adapting and Testing a Cognitive Rehabilitation Intervention Tailored for People with Systemic Sclerosis: Acceptability, Feasibility, & Impact on Health-related Outcomes
Abstract format and assignment number: Oral presentation 2654
Presenting author: Y. Chen (USA)
Date: Monday, November 18, 2024
This pilot study tested the feasibility, acceptability, and impact of an 8-week online cognitive rehabilitation intervention tailored for systemic sclerosis (SSc) (n=10). Combining educational sessions and brain-training exercises, it improved attention, perceived cognitive function, and fatigue. Co-led by an individual with SSc, the design addressed unique challenges like travel constraints. High participant satisfaction and adherence highlight its potential impact on self-management and quality of life, warranting further validation through larger trials.
Treat (Depression to Reach)-to-Target in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Abstract format and assignment number: Poster 2215
Presenting author: O. B. Tsechelidis (Canada)
Date:•Monday, November 18, 2024
This study examined the impact of depression on disease activity in 98 rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients starting new DMARD therapy. Patients with moderate-to-severe depression reported worse subjective outcomes (e.g., joint pain, morning stiffness) despite similar ultrasound inflammation scores across groups. These findings highlight the influence of depression on patient-reported outcomes, underscoring the need for objective assessments and integrated depression management to achieve optimal RA treatment outcomes.
Biobehavioral Basis and Outcomes of Cognitive Dysfunction in Childhood Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Abstract format and assignment number: Poster 1794
Presenting author: H. van der Heijden (USA, the Netherlands)
Date: Monday, November 18, 2024
This preliminary study highlights the relevance of non-pharmacological interventions for addressing cognitive dysfunction (CD) in 14 youth with childhood-onset SLE (cSLE) compared to 11 non-SLE controls. Impaired neurocognitive performance, altered prefrontal cortex function, and larger choroid plexus volumes suggest CD involves functional brain changes and neuroinflammation. These findings underline the potential for non-pharmacological strategies, such as cognitive rehabilitation or lifestyle interventions, to complement medical management and improve outcomes in this vulnerable population.
Fernando Estévez-López
Fer’s background is on Sport Sciences (BSc, MSc, PhD) and Psychology (MSc, PhD). Currently, he is a Ramón y Cajal Assistant Professor at University of Almería (Spain) and a Visiting Scientist at Harvard University (USA). His main research interests is the non-pharmacological management of RMDs. He particularly focuses on physical activity, patient education, self-management and mental health in young people with RMDs.
Fer was the convenor of the EULAR points to consider for patient education in physical activity and self-management of pain during transitional care. He is a member of the HPR and EMEUNET communities. Fer is the HPR advisor of the EULAR Congress Committee and a member of the EULAR advocacy Committee.