Contemporary treatment principles for early RA | Arthritis Information

 

Kiely PDW et al. - The principles for the diagnosis and treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) as discussed in this study focus on effective control of the inflammatory process in RA, however optimal uptake may require changes in service provision to accommodate appropriate care pathways.

Methods

• Aim was to advance the understanding of modern management principles for the diagnosis and treatment of RA
• A group of practicing UK rheumatologists formulated contemporary management principles and clinical practice recommendations
• Areas of clinical uncertainty were documented, leading to research recommendations

Results

• A fundamental concept governing treatment of RA is minimization of cumulative inflammation
• To achieve this, 4 core principles of management were identified:
  1. Detect and refer pts early, even if the diagnosis is uncertain
  2. Treat RA immediately - ideally within 3 months of symptom onset
  3. Tight control of inflammation in RA improves outcome
  4. Consider the risk–benefit ratio and tailor treatment to each patient
• http://rheumatology.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/abstract/kep073

[QUOTE=Lynn49]...Consider the risk–benefit ratio and tailor treatment to each patient

• 1. 
     
• http://rheumatology.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/abstract/kep073

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And to think! this has been the focus of discussion in at least two current topics right here on this forum. ([QUOTE=SnowOwl]You know, I read this and thought, why isn't it titled "Common Sense Treatment Principles for Early RA"?  Medicine is still at a stage where there are so many advances and possibilities and yet so many people from whom they're withheld, or who refuse them, out of prejudice, ignorance, or economics.     [/QUOTE]