title: Biologic agents in the treatment of inflammatory rheumatic diseases.
abstract: In 1997, knowledge about the treatment of autoimmune rheumatic diseases increased further. The most promising data to date came from studies using tumor necrosis factor-alpha blocking agents, such as monoclonal antibodies or soluble receptor constructs. Clinical trials with these compounds have now advanced to phase III; however, long-term safety data are not yet available. In addition, new developments with regard to T-helper cell-directed treatment principles, anti-inflammatory cytokines, and adhesion molecules are discussed.
authors.affiliation: Medizinische Klinik III mit Poliklinik, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Germany.
authors.forename: J R
authors.initials: JR
authors.lastname: Kalden
authors.forename: B
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Manger
mesh_terms: D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal / Q000627:therapeutic use; D015704:CD4 Antigens / Q000276:immunology; D017326:Clinical Trials, Phase III as Topic; D016207:Cytokines / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006801:Humans; D018799:Intercellular Adhesion Molecule-1 / Q000276:immunology; D007375:Interleukin-1 / Q000037:antagonists & inhibitors; D012216:Rheumatic Diseases / Q000276:immunology / Q000628:therapy*; D014409:Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha / Q000037:antagonists & inhibitors
chemical_list: D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal; D015704:CD4 Antigens; D016207:Cytokines; D007375:Interleukin-1; D014409:Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha; D018799:Intercellular Adhesion Molecule-1