Clinical observations programme in SpA: disease parameters, treatment options and practical management issues

Rheumatol Int. 2009 Jan;29(3):239-50. doi: 10.1007/s00296-008-0714-5. Epub 2008 Sep 26.

Abstract

Spondyloarthritides (SpAs) are a cluster of chronic inflammatory rheumatic diseases that typically involve inflammation of axial and peripheral joint or tendon and ligament insertions, distinct radiographic changes and diverse extra-articular features. Conventional treatments relieve the signs and symptoms but do not prevent disease progression. TNFalpha inhibitors provide clinicians with the potential to treat the underlying pathology and to alter disease progression. By targeting the underlying inflammatory mechanisms, TNFalpha blockade can treat any extra-articular manifestations of SpA.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antirheumatic Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Arthritis, Juvenile / drug therapy
  • Arthritis, Juvenile / physiopathology
  • Humans
  • Irritable Bowel Syndrome / drug therapy
  • Irritable Bowel Syndrome / physiopathology
  • Osteoarthritis / drug therapy
  • Osteoarthritis / physiopathology
  • Severity of Illness Index
  • Spondylarthropathies / drug therapy*
  • Spondylarthropathies / physiopathology*
  • Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha / antagonists & inhibitors*

Substances

  • Antirheumatic Agents
  • Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha