South African Rheumatism and Arthritis Association 2024 updated guidelines for the management of rheumatoid arthritis

The management of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) requires early diagnosis and prompt initiation of therapy, together with lifestyle interventions, particularly smoking cessation. These guidelines recommend a treat-to-target strategy using a composite disease activity score at each visit, with fr...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: G Tarr, N Govind, M Seboka, E Gardiner, B Hodkinson
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: South African Medical Association 2024-09-01
Series:South African Medical Journal
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Online Access:https://samajournals.co.za/index.php/samj/article/view/2598
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Summary:The management of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) requires early diagnosis and prompt initiation of therapy, together with lifestyle interventions, particularly smoking cessation. These guidelines recommend a treat-to-target strategy using a composite disease activity score at each visit, with frequent follow-up and escalation or switching of disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) therapy until the goal of low disease activity is achieved. A stepwise algorithm for DMARD therapy is provided. Screening for comorbidities and vaccination is advised.
ISSN:0256-9574
2078-5135