Dear Esteemed Members,

It is my privilege to present the March edition of the IRA E-Newsletter. This issue reflects our continued commitment to academic depth, clinical relevance, and collaborative growth within Indian Rheumatology.

We begin with the ever challenging debate, “The Never-Ending Saga of TB vs Sarcoidosis – Newer Insights,” revisiting this complex diagnostic interface in light of evolving evidence. This is followed by “The IgG4 Trap – What’s Not IgG4RD?”, a timely reminder on diagnostic prudence in the era of expanding immunostaining and serology. In “AVN – Think Phenotypes, Not Just the Stages,” we move beyond radiologic classification toward a more individualized, mechanism-based understanding. We also address “Approaching the Dreaded MAS in 2026 – From Recognition to Targeted Treatment,” emphasizing early recognition and precision therapeutics.

Our regular sections continue to strengthen academic engagement:

• RheumaLexicon– Emerging terminology and concepts
• AI in Rheumatology– Present applications and future directions
• Rheuma BITES– Academic puzzles and creative engagement
• RheumaIndia– Recent publications from our country
• RheumaConnect (East Zone Focus)– Celebrating regional history, strengths, and future vision
• MMC – RheumaRoots– Showcasing institutional academic initiatives

We are especially delighted to introduce RheumaLegends, featuring reflections from Dr AN Malaviya Sir   and an insightful piece on transition care from paediatric to adult rheumatology by Dr Surjit Singh Sir

I sincerely thank all contributors and editorial members especially Dr R Subramanyam for their dedication. I invite every IRA member to actively participate, contribute, and continue shaping the academic future of our association.

With warm regards,

Dr Rajkiran Dudam
Secretary
Indian Rheumatology Association (IRA)