Long-term effects of infliximab on bone and cartilage turnover markers in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is associated with systemic bone loss, subchondral bone erosion and cartilage degradation under the control of pro-inflammatory cytokines, including tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNFalpha). Therefore, we tested the hypothesis that administration of infliximab, an anti-TNFalpha drug in the treatment of RA, would modulate systemic and local bone resorption and reduce cartilage degradation.

Methods: We performed a prospective study of a multicentric cohort of 48 women, mean (SD) age 54.

Short-term efficacy of rofecoxib and diclofenac in acute shoulder pain: a placebo-controlled randomized trial.

Objectives: To evaluate the short-term symptomatic efficacy of rofecoxib and diclofenac versus placebo in acute episodes of shoulder pain.

Design: Randomized controlled trial of 7 days.

Setting: Rheumatologists and/or general practitioners totaling 47.

Effect of neonatal phototherapy on melanocytic nevus count in children.

Background: Melanocytic nevus is the strongest risk factor for the development of cutaneous melanoma. Fair skin and exposure to UV light, especially in childhood, are correlated with the development of childhood nevi.

Objective: To assess the role of blue light neonatal phototherapy used to treat hyperbilirubinemia in nevus acquisition in childhood.

Spinal tuberculosis: a longitudinal study with clinical, laboratory, and imaging outcomes.

Objectives: To study imaging changes associated with spinal tuberculosis (ST) over time and evaluate their association with clinical and laboratory data.

Methods: Between 1997 and 2004, patients with proven ST in our institution were prospectively enrolled and treated for 1 year. Clinical and laboratory data were collected at baseline and every 3 months.