Cogan's Syndrome: Clinical Presentations and Update on Treatment.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Cogan's syndrome (CS) is a rare systemic vasculitis that can severely affect vision and hearing, which may also have significant systemic effects. Early recognition of this autoimmune disorder and intervention can minimize disabling and irreversible damage. RECENT FINDINGS: This article will review the varying clinical presentations of CS and emerging information of systemic disease associated with CS. We will also review recently published promising treatment outcomes using immune modulating medications. As our framework for recognizing the markers of CS and the associated systemic disorders expands, more effective guidelines and treatment options may emerge.

A Review of Raynaud's Disease.

Raynaud's phenomenon is a relatively common but often unrecognized clinical syndrome causing characteristic color changes in the digits as a result of vasospasm. This may occur after exposure to a cold environment, emotional stress, or from other physical or medication exposures. Differentiating between primary and secondary Raynaud's is important as secondary Raynaud's can be complicated by digital ischemia and gangrene whereas primary Raynaud's is generally a benign condition. Referral to a rheumatologist is recommended to help evaluate for an underlying rheumatologic condition and to guide future therapy.

Antirheumatic drugs in pregnancy and lactation.

OBJECTIVE: To review the toxicity issues of commonly used antirheumatic drugs in pregnancy and lactation. METHODS: A review of the medical literature using Medline database via Ovid was performed to identify the toxicities of antirheumatic drugs in pregnancy and lactation. RESULTS: Many rheumatologic diseases in women often first present during the childbearing years. In most cases, antirheumatic therapy is required for their disease control. Glucocorticoids may be used during pregnancy; however, first-trimester use should be avoided if possible and breastfeeding should occur 4 hours after the last dosing. Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitors should be discontinued 6 to 8 weeks before delivery. NSAIDs are compatible with lactation, although there is potential risk of jaundice and kernicterus. There is insufficient data on COX-2 inhibitors and lactation. Hydroxychloroquine and sulfasalazine may be continued throughout pregnancy and lactation. Methotrexate and leflunomide are contraindicated during pregnancy and lactation. Cyclophosphamide and mycophenolate mofetil should be avoided during pregnancy and lactation. Azathioprine and cyclosporine A could be used with caution during pregnancy if felt there is a need to suppress disease activity. They are not compatible with breastfeeding. There are insufficient data regarding tumor necrosis factor-antagonists, anakinra, and rituximab in relation to pregnancy and lactation. Male patients should be made aware of the effects methotrexate, leflunomide, sulfasalazine, and cyclophosphamide may have on their fertility. CONCLUSIONS: Health care providers should discuss the risks and benefits of antirheumatic therapy during conception, pregnancy, and lactation with their patients. Better maternal and fetal outcomes can be expected if the pregnancy is planned, the rheumatic disease is stable, and if appropriate medication adjustments can be made ahead of time.