Rheumatoid arthritis

Smolen, J. S., Aletaha, D. and McInnes, I. B. (2016) Rheumatoid arthritis. Lancet, 388(10055), pp. 2023-2038. (doi: 10.1016/S0140-6736(16)30173-8) (PMID:27156434)

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Abstract

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory joint disease, which can cause cartilage and bone damage as well as disability. Early diagnosis is key to optimal therapeutic success, particularly in patients with well-characterised risk factors for poor outcomes such as high disease activity, presence of autoantibodies, and early joint damage. Treatment algorithms involve measuring disease activity with composite indices, applying a treatment-to-target strategy, and use of conventional, biological, and newz non-biological disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs. After the treatment target of stringent remission (or at least low disease activity) is maintained, dose reduction should be attempted. Although the prospects for most patients are now favourable, many still do not respond to current therapies. Accordingly, new therapies are urgently required. In this Seminar, we describe current insights into genetics and aetiology, pathophysiology, epidemiology, assessment, therapeutic agents, and treatment strategies together with unmet needs of patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:McInnes, Professor Iain
Authors: Smolen, J. S., Aletaha, D., and McInnes, I. B.
College/School:College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Infection & Immunity
Journal Name:Lancet
Publisher:The Lancet Publishing Group
ISSN:0140-6736
ISSN (Online):1474-547X
Published Online:03 May 2016
Copyright Holders:Copyright © 2017 Elsevier
First Published:First published in Lancet 388(10055): 2023-2038
Publisher Policy:Reproduced in accordance with the publisher copyright policy

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