Persistent hypertension in lupus nephritis and the associated risk factors.

Arterial hypertension (HPT) burden up to two third of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients and contributes to accelerated atherosclerosis and cardiovascular (CV) risk. We aim to determine the prevalence of HPT among lupus nephritis (LN) patients who were in complete remission (CR) for a minimum of 6 months, with estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) of >60 mL/min/1.73 m(2).

Interleukin-23 and its correlation with disease activity, joint damage, and functional disability in rheumatoid arthritis.

The purpose of this study was to compare the serum interleukin (IL)-23 levels between rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients and healthy controls and to determine the correlation of IL-23 levels with disease activity, joint damage and functional disability in RA. Serum samples were obtained from 45 patients with RA and 45 healthy controls. The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method was used for quantitative analysis of IL-23.

Blindness in a pulseless young woman: lessons learned.

Purpose: To report a young woman who presented with blindness secondary to ocular ischemic syndrome (OIS) as the initial presenting feature of Takayasu arteritis (TA).

Design: Case report.

Methods: Computer tomography (CT) aortogram showed severely stenosed aortic branches.

Dermatomyositis masquerading musculoskeletal tuberculosis.

Dermatomyositis is a rare rheumatic disease which predominantly affects the muscles and skin requiring a protracted course of immunosuppressants which may predispose the patients to opportunistic infections. A 49-year-old lady was diagnosed to have dermatomyositis in August 2010 based on history, significantly raised creatine kinase level and muscle biopsy findings. She had recurrent admissions due to fever, myalgia and muscle weakness.