Recently, the IMACS released a set of international guidelines that offer a foundational overview of cancer risk stratification in IIM, along with corresponding screening strategies for each risk category. In an interview with Omnihealth Practice, Dr. So, Ho and Dr. Tang, Yan-Ki Iris discussed their recently published study, which evaluated the applicability and reliability of the IMACS guidelines within the local population of Hong Kong. They provided insights into the prevalence of IIM-related cancer in Hong Kong and shared a refined model on how these recommendations can be effectively implemented in the region. 

Despite their exceptional anti-inflammatory properties, the use of systemic glucocorticoids (GCs) for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) remains controversial due to the potential side effects, particularly their role in elevating patients’ risk of cardiovascular (CV) events. A po

The Hong Kong Society of Rheumatology (HKSR) published a set of consensus statements for Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination in adult patients with autoimmune rheumatic diseases (ARDs). This statement serves as a guide to local rheumatologists and other specialists, nurses, healthcare professionals and the public regarding the use of COVID-19 vaccines in patients with ARDs. ARD is a group of chronic medical illness characterized by systemic inflammation, in which a dysregulated immune system causes damage or dysfunction to connective tissues and leads to various treatment-related complications and comorbidities. In the current COVID-19 pandemic, patients with pre-existing chronic health conditions are more prone to serious illness and mortality from the infection, arousing concerns among patients with ARDs regarding their suitability for the COVID-19 vaccination.