In this episode of our crosscast series shared across RhAPPcast, GHAPPcast, and Dermcast, we explore the hidden costs of obesity in immune-mediated inflammatory diseases (IMIDs) and how excess adiposity drives poorer outcomes, reduced treatment response, and increased healthcare burden. Hosted by Amanda Mixon, PA-C, president of RhAPP, this discussion brings together expert APPs from rheumatology, dermatology, gastroenterology, and metabolic health to unpack the pathophysiologic link between obesity and IMID progression. Our panel breaks down how adipose tissue fuels systemic inflammation, why cytokines like TNF-α and IL-6 worsen disease activity in psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and IBD, and how obesity accelerates drug clearance and impacts biologic efficacy. We also examine clinical misconceptions, challenges with pharmacokinetics, and the real-world cycle of flares, surgeries, and increased healthcare utilization seen in this high-risk population. APPs will gain practical insight into addressing weight as part of comprehensive IMID care, improving patient conversations, and leveraging collaborative, cross-specialty management strategies. Stream this episode and the full series on RhAPPcast, GHAPPcast, and Dermcast, or access every installment through the RhAPP ACE 2.0 and GHAPP ACE 2.0 mobile apps for on-the-go learning. Stay tuned for our next episode, where we shift from mechanisms to action and discuss practical strategies APPs can use to improve outcomes for patients living with both obesity and IMIDs.

Welcome to the first episode in our special cross-platform podcast collaboration on IMIDs and Obesity, shared across RhAPPcast, GHAPPcast, and Dermcast—the official podcasts of RhAPP, GHAPP, and SDPA. Hosted by Amanda Mixon, PA-C, President of RhAPP, this conversation titled “Obesity and IMIDs: Unpacking the Epidemic and Its Far-Reaching Impacts” explores one of the most under recognized yet clinically significant intersections in modern medicine—the link between obesity and immune-mediated inflammatory diseases. Joined by Laura Bush, PA-C, Erin Darguzas, NP, and Jennifer Hernandez Parra, APRN, the episode delves into the evidence behind obesity’s role in disease onset and progression across rheumatology, gastroenterology, dermatology, and metabolic health. Together, these experts examine how obesity influences inflammation, treatment response, and patient quality of life while highlighting the importance of multidisciplinary care and open communication between providers and patients. Tune in to gain practical insights on how advanced practice providers can better address obesity as a key driver of IMID burden, and stay tuned for upcoming episodes exploring pathophysiologic mechanisms and clinical management strategies.

Join host Amanda Mixon, President of RhAPP, for a special episode of RhAPPcast, recorded live at the 6th Annual RhAPP Conference. In this conversation, Amanda is joined by Jessica Glennie, CNP, from the Cleveland Clinic, to explore the complex intersection of rheumatology and pulmonology, focusing on Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) and Pulmonary Hypertension in ILD (PH-ILD). Together, they unpack how early recognition, multidisciplinary collaboration, and evidence-based management can improve outcomes for patients with connective tissue disease–related pulmonary complications. Tune in for expert insights, practical diagnostic tips, and highlights from one of the most engaging sessions of the RhAPP National Conference.

#RhAPP #Rheumatology #Pulmonology #ILD #PHILD #APPeducation #RheumatologyConference #MedicalPodcast

Join host Amanda Mixon, PA-C, live from the 6th Annual RhAPP National Conference in Denver, as she sits down with Naomi Amudala, CRNP, from Penn Medicine, to break down one of rheumatology’s most complex and life-threatening conditions: ANCA-associated vasculitis. In this insightful RhAPPcast episode, Amanda and Naomi explore the spectrum of AAV—including GPA, MPA, and EGPA—while unpacking early diagnostic clues, real-world treatment strategies, and emerging therapies like rituximab and avacopan. From recognizing red-flag symptoms such as renal involvement and pulmonary hemorrhage to reducing long-term steroid exposure, this conversation offers practical takeaways for advanced practice providers managing vasculitis in the clinic. Stay tuned to RhAPPcast for more expert-driven rheumatology education from the nation’s leading APP conference.

In this educational segment, Wendy Simmons, PA-C, from Carolina Arthritis Associates in Wilmington, North Carolina, shares her nearly three decades of experience in rheumatology to address a critical question: What is the clinical significance of structural damage in psoriatic arthritis? Drawing on insights from decades of evolution in psoriatic arthritis care—from the pre-biologic era of the 1990s to today’s advanced targeted therapies—Wendy explains how persistent inflammation at enthesial sites can lead to periosteal reaction, joint space narrowing, and ultimately irreversible joint destruction. She reflects on early cases that demonstrated severe deformities underscoring the need for early detection and aggressive management to prevent disability and preserve quality of life. This discussion highlights why understanding structural progression is essential for optimizing outcomes in patients with inflammatory arthritis. For additional resources and in-depth data, visit the RhAPP website for expert-led rheumatology education tailored to advanced practice providers.

In this medication review, Wendy Simmons, PA-C, from Carolina Arthritis Associates in Wilmington, North Carolina, draws on nearly three decades of rheumatology experience to explore the clinical efficacy of guselkumab in inhibiting the progression of structural damage in psoriatic arthritis. Referencing the APEX Phase 3B Trial presented at the 2025 EULAR Congress, Wendy reviews key data on guselkumab's dual IL-23 mechanism of action—targeting both the p19 subunit and the CD64 receptor on IL-23–producing myeloid cells. She highlights significant findings in joint space narrowing, bone erosion, and radiographic progression, demonstrating the therapy’s ability to slow disease progression compared to placebo. With efficacy shown across both Q4 and Q8 week dosing intervals, this medication represents a meaningful advancement in psoriatic arthritis management. For a deeper dive into the data and additional resources, visit the RhAPP website to access full clinical insights and educational materials for advanced practice providers.

#RheumatologyEducation #APEXTrial #BiologicTherapies #AdvancedPracticeProviders #AutoimmuneDisease #JointHealth

Welcome to RhAPPcast, the official podcast of Rheumatology Advanced Practice Providers. In this episode, hosted by Amanda Mixon, PA-C, current RhAPP President, we bring you exclusive highlights from the 6th Annual RhAPP National Conference. This episode features a powerful discussion with Betsy Kirchner, nurse practitioner at Cleveland Clinic and RhAPP co-founder. Together, Amanda and Betsy explore the evolving landscape of Sjögren’s disease, from underdiagnosis and quality-of-life challenges to breakthroughs in understanding B-cell involvement and the promise of emerging dual-action therapies. The conversation also underscores the importance of multidisciplinary care, early recognition of systemic symptoms, and how APPs can lead in improving patient outcomes. Tune in for expert insights on new diagnostic approaches, patient education, and what’s next in the treatment pipeline. Stay connected to RhAPPcast for more conference spotlights and evidence-based updates designed for APPs, by APPs in rheumatology.

In this episode, Wendy Simmons, PA-C from Carolina Arthritis in Wilmington, North Carolina, shares insights from nearly three decades of rheumatology experience to answer an important clinical question. Drawing on the pivotal APEX trial, recently presented at EULAR Congress 2025, Wendy reviews how guselkumab demonstrated inhibition of radiographic progression in PsA patients. Using modified vdH-S scores to assess joint space narrowing and bone erosion, the study showed that patients treated with guselkumab experienced significantly lower rates of structural joint damage compared to placebo. With ACR20 response achieved at week 24 and radiographic outcomes confirming long-term benefit, this trial reinforces the role of guselkumab as an effective therapy for psoriatic arthritis beyond symptom control. For clinicians seeking the latest data on PsA treatment and disease-modifying strategies, this discussion highlights key findings that support improved patient outcomes. For more information and additional resources, visit the RhAPP website.