Infliximab treatment for rheumatic disease: clinical and radiological efficacy.

Journal Article (Journal Article;Review)

Infliximab is a chimeric anti-tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNFalpha) monoclonal antibody with high affinity and binding specificity for human TNFalpha. Results from several well designed, controlled clinical trials show repeated infusions of infliximab with concomitant methotrexate (MTX) treatment can reduce the signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). This combination of infliximab and MTX also slows the radiological progression of joint damage, decreases functional disability, and improves qualify of life. These remarkably positive results have led to the investigation of infliximab treatment for other rheumatic diseases. Recently, controlled studies have shown treatment with infliximab can benefit patients with active spondyloarthropathy. TNFalpha has fast become an important therapeutic target in rheumatology.

Full Text

Duke Authors

Cited Authors

  • St Clair, EW

Published Date

  • November 2002

Published In

Volume / Issue

  • 61 Suppl 2 / Suppl 2

Start / End Page

  • ii67 - ii69

PubMed ID

  • 12379627

Pubmed Central ID

  • PMC1766724

International Standard Serial Number (ISSN)

  • 0003-4967

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

  • 10.1136/ard.61.suppl_2.ii67

Language

  • eng

Conference Location

  • England