New Guidelines Issued for Management of Rheumatoid Arthritis

The American College of Rheumatology (ACR) has issued updated guidelines for the management of rheumatoid arthritis taking into account major advancements in the treatment of the disease made over the past five years.

The new guidelines include evidence on new therapies such as genetically engineered biologic response modifiers that target specific chemicals that cause inflammation. They also include information on other new disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs).

The guidelines include specific information on effectiveness, time to benefit, potential side effects, monitoring of side effects, drug costs and administration of these drugs. The updated guidelines include a treatment algorithm that incorporates the advancements in treatment options, giving healthcare providers a useful tool for following proven treatment protocols.

The ACR guidelines emphasize early diagnosis and treatment of rheumatoid arthritis because recent studies have shown that early treatment is critical in attaining better disease control. Joint damage often occurs within the first two years of the disease and early treatment could prevent this damage.

The guidelines are evidence-based whenever possible, according to the introduction to the guidelines. However, some recommendations are based on best practices and a consensus of the American College of Rheumatology Subcommittee on Rheumatoid Arthritis Guidelines.

The guidelines were reviewed by rheumatologists, primary care providers who practice rheumatology, and other arthritis health professionals, including occupational therapists, physical therapists, social workers, and patient educators.

The complete updated guidelines are available for review at: http://www.rheumatology.org.

Other sources: American College of Rheumatology