Arthropod-borne arthritides
Abstract Infections with several types of viral and bacterial pathogens are able to cause arthritic disease. Arthropod vectors such as ticks and mosquitoes transmit a number of these arthritis-causing pathogens,…
Evolving spectrum of HIV-associated rheumatic syndromes
Abstract At the end of 2013, 35 million people worldwide were infected with HIV. The prognosis of HIV has been transformed by combination antiretroviral therapy (cART). Providing compliance is good,…
Vasculitis related to viral and other microbial agents
Abstract Vasculitis due to infection may occur as a consequence of the inflammation of vessel walls due to direct or contiguous infection, type II or immune complex-mediated reaction, cell-mediated hypersensitivity,…
Role of genetics in infection-associated arthritis
Abstract Genetic discoveries in arthritis and their associated biological pathways spanning the innate and adaptive immune system demonstrate the strong association between susceptibility to arthritis and control of exogenous organisms….
The intestinal microbiome in human disease and how it relates to arthritis and spondyloarthritis
Abstract Humans and microbes have developed a symbiotic relationship over time, and alterations in this symbiotic relationship have been linked to several immune mediated diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease,…
The association between rheumatoid arthritis and periodontitis
Abstract The relationship between rheumatoid arthritis and poor oral health has been recognised for many decades. The association between periodontal infection and the risk of developing RA has been the…
Infections and musculoskeletal conditions
The relationship between infections and musculoskeletal and rheumatic conditions is complex and multifaceted. Multiple factors are believed to contribute to the development of rheumatic diseases, including genetic predisposition, hormonal milieu,…
Economic impact of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) on work in Europe
Abstract Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are the leading cause of work disability, sickness absence from work, ‘presenteeism’ and loss of productivity across all the European Union (EU) member states. It is…
Rheumatoid arthritis and work: The impact of rheumatoid arthritis on absenteeism and presenteeism
Abstract For patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), being in paid work is very important, and it increases self-esteem and financial independence. Although the management of RA has changed in the…
The impact of ankylosing spondylitis/axial spondyloarthritis on work productivity
Abstract Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory condition that has a significant impact on the quality of life and work productivity. New classification criteria have enabled earlier diagnosis of…
