Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases (ARD) is an international peer-reviewed journal committed to promoting the highest standards of scientific exchange and education. It covers all aspects of rheumatology, which includes the spectrum of musculoskeletal conditions, arthritic disease, and connective tissue disorders. ARD publishes basic, clinical, and translational scientific research. Concise scientific communication is encouraged and peer-reviewed proceedings of international meetings are featured.