Recommendations for the use of biologic (TNF-alpha blocking) agents in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis in Italy
Valesini, G.; Montecucco, C.; Cutolo, M.
Clinical and Experimental Rheumatology 24(4): 413-423
2006
ISSN/ISBN: 0392-856X PMID: 16956432 Document Number: 602040
The present report is devoted to drawing up and disseminating specific recommendations for the use of anti-TNF-alpha therapies in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in Italy. The document reports and discusses the published literature concerning the criteria for inclusion, assessment of response and for withdrawal of treatment with TNF blocking agents in RA. Several specific points concerning more sensitive warnings are discussed: tuberculosis, hepatitis, lymphoma, and cardiovascular risk and induction of autoimmunity. The recommendations are summarized in an 8-point table approved by the executive committee of the Italian Society for Rheumatology.