Measurement of mast cell tryptase is a vital yet underused tool in the assessment of severe allergic and mast cell disorders. This article summarises the causes of elevated serum tryptase, indications for testing and interpretation of results
GP Jonathan Bentley gets to the bottom of a 17-year-old’s problems, which include truancy, fatigue, depression and a strained mother–daughter relationship
Pharmacist prescriber Leanne Te Karu explains that repeat prescriptions for allopurinol sometimes require the same approach as for allopurinol naive people
Historically, rheumatoid arthritis was a major cause of chronic pain, disability, loss of independence and even reduced life expectancy. With the widespread use of disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs, it is now a very treatable chronic disease with a life expectancy and quality of life approaching that of the general population, explain Kate O’Mahony and Ravi Suppiah
This article provides a useful summary of when to request an immunoglobulins test, what the results might mean and what follow-up actions you should take, including when to refer your patient to immunology
Occupational health expert David McBride looks at the association between occupation and rheumatoid arthritis, and highlights the lung as an initial site of inflammation and autoimmunity
Specialist GP Nikki Vadgama provides some tips to make your next paediatric eczema consult easier. She includes a review of new guidelines, resources, websites and medications for paediatric eczema management