Coronavirus care guidelines released for rheumatic disease patients

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By Katherine Shagoury

The American College of Rheumatology (ACR) developed clinical guidance for the care of adult patients with rheumatic diseases during the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, which are published in the journal Arthritis & Rheumatology.

Populations considered include patients with a documented COVID-19 infection, those who are stable following exposure to SARS-CoV-2 but without known infection, and patients who are stable with no infection or exposure.

The recommendations address various treatment options and provide general guidance, as well as direction for when to start, stop, or reduce medications.

All recommendations are based on current knowledge and will be revised as circumstances and evidence evolve, the authors said.

Editor’s note: Click here for more information and ongoing COVID-19 updates for integrative healthcare professionals.