COVID-19: Overview of rheumatology fellows

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Rheumatology
• Public Health

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by SARS-CoV-2, emerged in December 2019, presenting a significant global health challenge.
• The pandemic has strained healthcare systems worldwide, highlighting the need for effective treatment strategies.
• A lack of randomized clinical trials for COVID-19 has led to varied treatment approaches globally, often relying on observational data and off-label drug use.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the experiences of rheumatologists on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic.
• To highlight the adaptation of rheumatology training and clinical activities in response to the pandemic.
• To explore the repurposing of existing rheumatologic drugs for the treatment of COVID-19.

Main Methods:

• Rheumatologists adapted clinical practices and training schedules to manage COVID-19 patients.
• Leveraged prior experience with drugs used for arthritis and giant cell arteritis.
• Applied these established treatments to manage COVID-19 cases.

Main Results:

• Rheumatologists actively participated in patient care during the pandemic.
• Clinical experience with managing inflammatory conditions informed COVID-19 treatment decisions.
• Existing rheumatologic medications were utilized in the therapeutic approach to COVID-19.

Conclusions:

• The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated rapid adaptation within the rheumatology field.
• Rheumatologists' expertise in managing immune-related diseases proved valuable in treating COVID-19.
• The study underscores the potential of repurposed drugs in managing novel infectious diseases.