Thieves Market

Thieves’ Market presentations are a longstanding tradition in rheumatology, featuring intriguing cases that challenge the audience to work through complex diagnostic or management decisions. The goal is to sharpen clinical reasoning and foster thoughtful, evidence-based care.

A strong Thieves’ Market submission to the VSR will be:

• A polished, well-rehearsed presentation 
• Engaging and thought-provoking for the audience 
• A real case with clear educational value and a meaningful teaching point 

Awards will be presented to the top submissions, with prizes of $500 for first place, $300 for second place, and $200 for third place. The winning presentation will also be featured on the VSR website. Be sure to visit the Fellows Corner to see highlights from our 2025 winners!

Requirements:

• Submissions are limited to trainees (medical students, residents, and fellows) 
• All trainees must have a faculty mentor 
• Multiple authors are permitted to encourage collaboration across training levels 

Additional guidelines are available below. The submission deadline is August 24, 2026—submit your case today!