Rheumatologic Conditions - Indiana Rheumatology & Infusion Center

Indiana Rheumatology & Infusion Center, New Albany, Indiana, Dr. Fabiola Gamarra-Hilburn

Understanding the Overlap Between Gastroenterologic, Rheumatologic, and Dermatologic Conditions

April 1, 2025/in Dermatologic Conditions, Gastroenterologic Conditions, Helpful Information, Rheumatologic Conditions/by Indiana Rheumatology & Infusion Center

Many chronic diseases share common pathways of inflammation and immune dysfunction, leading to overlapping symptoms across different organ systems. Conditions such as psoriatic arthritis, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and psoriasis not only affect their primary target areas—joints, skin, and the gastrointestinal (GI) tract—but also impact overall health and quality of life. Understanding these connections is crucial for effective disease management and treatment.

How Are These Conditions Connected?

The immune system plays a key role in regulating inflammation. In some individuals, an overactive immune response triggers widespread inflammation, leading to symptoms in multiple organ systems. For example:

Psoriatic arthritis affects both the joints and skin, causing swelling, stiffness, and the characteristic scaly plaques of psoriasis.
Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, primarily impact the GI tract but can also cause joint pain and skin rashes.

These overlaps suggest that treating one aspect of the disease can often improve symptoms in other affected areas.

Symptoms That May Indicate an Overlapping Condition

If you have been diagnosed with one of these conditions, it’s important to watch for symptoms that could signal additional immune involvement:

Persistent joint pain and stiffness, especially in the morning
Skin rashes, plaques, or lesions, particularly on the scalp, elbows, or knees
Chronic digestive issues, such as diarrhea, bloating, or abdominal pain
Eye inflammation (uveitis) or sensitivity to light

Early recognition of these symptoms can lead to more comprehensive treatment strategies that address the full scope of the disease.

Treatment Approaches for Immune-Driven Diseases

Managing conditions with systemic inflammation often requires a multifaceted approach. Traditional therapies include topical treatments, oral medications, and lifestyle modifications, but for some patients, targeted biologic therapies have transformed disease management by reducing inflammation across multiple systems.

For example, biologics used to treat psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis also benefit patients with IBD by calming inflammation in both the skin and gut.

A Holistic Approach to Care

Because these diseases are interconnected, working with a healthcare provider who understands their overlap is essential. At Indiana Rheumatology & Infusion Center, we recognize the importance of comprehensive, patient-centered care. Our team collaborates to develop personalized treatment plans that address not just joint pain, but also skin and GI involvement, ensuring that patients receive the most effective and well-rounded care possible.

If you’re experiencing symptoms that span across multiple systems, a targeted treatment plan could make a significant difference.

Call us today to schedule a consultation.

Indiana Rheumatology & Infusion Center, Blog on Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment, New Albany, Indiana

Why Disease-Modifying Therapy is Essential for Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment

March 15, 2025/in Helpful Information, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Rheumatologic Conditions/by Indiana Rheumatology & Infusion Center

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes inflammation, joint damage, and disability if left untreated. While pain medications may offer temporary relief, they do not address the underlying cause of the disease. The gold standard for managing RA is disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and biologic therapies, which help slow disease progression and preserve joint function.

The Importance of Disease-Modifying Therapy

RA is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the joints, leading to inflammation and eventual joint destruction. DMARDs, including methotrexate, hydroxychloroquine, sulfasalazine, and biologics such as TNF inhibitors, help regulate the immune response and reduce inflammation at its source. Without these medications, RA can cause irreversible joint damage, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.

Key benefits of DMARDs and biologic therapy include:

Slowing or stopping disease progression – These medications prevent joint erosion and deformity.
Reducing long-term disability – Early treatment can help maintain function and quality of life.
Decreasing systemic complications – RA is linked to cardiovascular disease, lung disease, and other systemic conditions, which DMARDs help mitigate.

Why Pain Medications Are Not a Long-Term Solution

Pain medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), steroids, and opioids can help manage symptoms, but they do not alter the course of the disease. Overreliance on these drugs can lead to serious health risks, including:

Gastrointestinal ulcers and bleeding – Long-term NSAID use can damage the stomach lining.
Cardiovascular risks – Some NSAIDs increase the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Osteoporosis and weight gain – Prolonged steroid use weakens bones and can contribute to obesity and diabetes.
Opioid dependence and addiction – Opioids do not address inflammation and pose a high risk of addiction, overdose, and long-term dependence.

While NSAIDs and corticosteroids play a role as coadjuvant therapies in managing RA symptoms, they are not the main treatment. Some patients may require them temporarily to control inflammation and pain, but they should always be used alongside DMARDs and biologics for effective long-term disease management.

While short-term pain relief is important, the focus of RA treatment should be on long-term disease control with DMARDs and biologics. By addressing the root cause of inflammation, these treatments help prevent joint damage, improve function, and enhance overall quality of life.

Conclusion

If you or a loved one has rheumatoid arthritis, early intervention with disease-modifying therapy is crucial. Delaying proper treatment increases the risk of irreversible joint damage and disability. Work with a rheumatologist to develop a personalized treatment plan that targets disease progression, rather than just masking pain.

For expert RA management, contact Indiana Rheumatology & Infusion Center today to explore effective treatment options that preserve joint health and improve your well-being.

Indiana Rheumatology & Infusion Center, Dr. Fabiola Gamarra-Hilburn, New Albany, IN, Informational blog about Pegloticase

How to Get Rid of Gout Tophi: Is Pegloticase the Answer?

February 24, 2025/in Gout, Helpful Information, Rheumatologic Conditions/by Indiana Rheumatology & Infusion Center

Gout is a painful and debilitating form of arthritis caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints. In advanced cases, these crystals form tophi—hard, swollen lumps that can severely impact mobility and joint function. Traditional gout treatments often fall short in severe cases, but Pegloticase offers a breakthrough solution for chronic tophaceous gout.

Why is Pegloticase the Best Treatment for Severe Gout with Tophi?

Unlike conventional medications that either block uric acid production or promote its elimination, Pegloticase actively breaks down excess uric acid, leading to rapid tophi reduction. It’s an enzyme-based infusion therapy that converts uric acid into allantoin, a substance that dissolves easily in the urine, preventing further crystal formation.

How Effective is Pegloticase for Tophi Removal?

Research and clinical trials have demonstrated the power of Pegloticase in reducing tophi:

Up to 40% of patients experience complete tophus resolution within six months of treatment.
Significant pain and swelling reduction within the first few infusions.
Improved mobility and quality of life, making daily activities easier.

For those considering surgical removal of tophi, using Pegloticase beforehand can shrink or even eliminate tophi, making surgery less invasive or unnecessary.

Should You Use Pegloticase Before Surgery for Gout Tophi?

Surgical removal of tophi carries risks, including infection, nerve damage, and long recovery periods. By initiating Pegloticase therapy first, patients may:

Reduce the size of tophi, making surgery simpler and safer.
Improve joint function before undergoing an operation.
Potentially avoid surgery altogether if tophi dissolve completely.

Real Patient Success with Pegloticase

John, a 62-year-old living with chronic gout, was considering surgery after years of failed treatments. His rheumatologist recommended Pegloticase, and after six months of therapy, his tophi shrank by 80%, allowing him to walk pain-free without surgery.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How long does it take for Pegloticase to work on tophi?
Most patients see noticeable improvement within a few months, with full tophus resolution in some cases by six to twelve months.

2. What are the risks of surgery for gout tophi?
Surgical risks include infection, nerve damage, and long recovery times. Pegloticase can help shrink tophi before surgery, making it a safer procedure—or eliminating the need altogether.

3. Is Pegloticase right for me?
If you have severe, uncontrolled gout with tophi, and standard medications haven’t worked, Pegloticase may be an excellent option. A consultation with a rheumatologist is essential to determine eligibility.

Take Control of Your Gout Today

At Indiana Rheumatology & Infusion Center, we specialize in advanced infusion therapies, including Pegloticase for severe gout. Our team of experienced rheumatology experts is dedicated to helping you reduce tophi, relieve pain, and improve mobility—all without unnecessary surgery.

Don’t wait until tophi limit your movement and daily life. Take action now!

Schedule a consultation today and get a personalized treatment plan.
Call us now to learn more about our infusion therapy options.
Visit our infusion center in Indiana for expert gout care and cutting-edge treatments.

Contact Indiana Rheumatology & Infusion Center Today!

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