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Patients with RA had better functional outcomes with increased adherence to treat-to-target protocol
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Patients with early rheumatoid arthritis had better long-term disease activity and functional outcomes with increased adherence to a treat-to-target protocol, according to results.
Researchers managed 198 patients (71.7% were women) with early rheumatoid arthritis (RA) with a treat-to-target protocol in which patients were initially treated with methotrexate, sulfasalazine and hydroxychloroquine. Treatment was further intensified until target disease activity was achieved. Researchers identified remission according to DAS28 and Simplified Disease Activity Index (SDAI) criteria as the primary endpoint. Secondary endpoints included functional and radiographic outcomes measured by the modified Health Assessment Questionnaire and modified total Sharp score, respectively.
Despite no significant association between adherence to treat-to-target protocol and remission rate after 1 year after investigators adjusted for relevant variables, results showed a significant association between adherence to treat-to-target protocol and remission rate for DAS28 and SDAI criteria at 3 years. Researchers also found an association between adherence and physical function after 3 years. According to results, after either 1 year or 3 years, adherence was not associated with radiographic outcomes. However, at the end of the study researchers noted a trend for higher adherence to be associated with less radiographic progression. – by Casey Tingle
Disclosure: The researchers report no relevant financial disclosures.
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