Reassuring news for rheumatology patients and Corona virus infections

Results of a study examining the impact of Corona Virus  / Covid 19 on rheumatology patients on immunosuppressive therapies have just been published.

The study assessed the outcomes of 600 rheumatology patients who developed Corona Virus infections and is the biggest study of its kind – and the results are promising.

The results are relevant to patients suffering from inflammatory arthritis (eg rheumatoid, ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis), SLE, Vasculitis where they are on immunosuppressive treatments.

Taking conventional DMARD therapies was not associated with an increased risk of hospital admission in those who developed Corona Virus infection.

Taking Biologic DMARD therapies was not associated with and increased risk of hospital admission in those who developed Corona Virus infection.

Taking steroids increased the risk of hospitalisation in doses of Prednisolone (Deltacortil / prednisone) of 10mg per day or higher.

Rheumatology patients on these medications who are at greatest risk of hospitalisation are those over 65, those with high blood pressure or heart problems, lung problems, diabetes or chronic kidney disease.