Emilio D'Ignazio, Davide Corradini, Tomas Cazenave, Riccardo Bixio, Caterina Baldi, Harjit Kaur Ubhi, Kate Smith, Richard J Wakefield, Paul Emery, Andrea Di Matteo
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Purpose of review: This review highlights key ultrasound applications for evaluating extra-articular involvement in rheumatic diseases, including the lungs, vessels, salivary glands, muscles, nerves, skin, and nails. It explores recent advances, emerging areas of assessment, and future research directions. Additionally, the review examines current limitations in the routine use of ultrasound for these purposes and considers the potential of new technologies, such as shear-wave elastography, contrast-enhanced ultrasound, and artificial intelligence, to enhance the early detection and monitoring of extra-articular manifestations in rheumatic diseases.
Recent findings: Extra-articular manifestations in patients with rheumatic diseases are crucial for diagnosis, management (including treatment strategies), and prognosis, making accurate assessment essential. Growing evidence supports the role of ultrasound in assessing these manifestations for diagnosis, monitoring, and gaining insights into disease pathogenesis. Recent studies emphasize the significant utility of ultrasound in evaluating extra-articular involvement across various organ systems, including the lungs, vessels, salivary glands, muscles, nerves, skin, and nails. Technological advances, such as shear-wave elastography, contrast-enhanced ultrasound, and artificial intelligence, are expanding the scope and precision of ultrasound applications. Despite its potential, challenges such as operator dependency, lack of standardized protocols, and the need for specialized training hinder its widespread adoption. Ultrasound is a non-invasive, cost-effective, and radiation-free imaging modality with high diagnostic accuracy, making it a valuable tool for assessing extra-articular manifestations in rheumatic diseases. Emerging technologies may further enhance its clinical utility. However, efforts to standardize techniques and improve accessibility are necessary to optimize its integration into routine practice.
期刊介绍:
This journal aims to review the most important, recently published research in the field of rheumatology. By providing clear, insightful, balanced contributions by international experts, the journal intends to serve all those involved in the care and prevention of rheumatologic conditions.
We accomplish this aim by appointing international authorities to serve as Section Editors in key subject areas such as the many forms of arthritis, osteoporosis and metabolic bone disease, and systemic lupus erythematosus. Section Editors, in turn, select topics for which leading experts contribute comprehensive review articles that emphasize new developments and recently published papers of major importance, highlighted by annotated reference lists. An international Editorial Board reviews the annual table of contents, suggests articles of special interest to their country/region, and ensures that topics are current and include emerging research. Commentaries from well-known figures in the field are also occasionally provided.