Abstract
Purpose of Review: In the clinical evaluation of inflammatory arthritis and the research into its pathogenesis, there is a growing role for the direct analysis of synovial tissue. Over the years, various biopsy techniques have been used to obtain human synovial tissue samples, and there have been progressive improvements in the safety, tolerability, and utility of the procedure. Recent Findings: The latest advancement in synovial tissue biopsy techniques is the use of ultrasound imaging to guide the biopsy device, along with evolution in the characteristics of the device itself. While ultrasound guided synovial biopsy (UGSB) has taken a strong foothold in Europe, the procedure is still relatively new to the United States of America (USA). Summary: In this paper, we describe the expansion of UGSB in the USA, elucidate the challenges faced by rheumatologists developing UGSB programs in the USA, and describe several strategies for overcoming these challenges.
| Original language | English (US) |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 197-203 |
| Number of pages | 7 |
| Journal | Current rheumatology reports |
| Volume | 26 |
| Issue number | 6 |
| DOIs | |
| State | Published - Jun 2024 |
Funding
To address the barrier of obtaining biopsy supplies, training programs can provide a list of specific recommended supplies, along with the vendor and item number. This preferred supply list can be updated as new, improved supplies become available. If planning to perform synovial biopsies for a research project funded by a third party, the rheumatologist may request that the contract research organization (CRO) provide biopsy kits with the necessary supplies. Furthermore, rheumatologists novice in the biopsy procedure may consult more experienced individuals for recommendations for preferred biopsy supplies and ways to obtain them. The experienced biopsy operator can also advise the novice on modifications to the list when necessary. We recognize that while a preferred supply list can be helpful, over time an individual may modify their supply list to suit their needs, resources, and preferences.
Keywords
- Inflammatory arthritis
- Precision medicine
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Synovial histology
- Ultrasound-guided synovial biopsy
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Rheumatology