Emerging new therapies in rheumatoid arthritis: what's next for the patient?
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by an inflammation of the synovial membranes and progressive joint destruction, leading to significant impairment of physical function and quality of life. Rheumatoid arthritis imposes a substantial economic burden on both patients and society. The recent introduction of new biologic therapies for the treatment of RA reflects the application of knowledge obtained from advancements in the understanding of disease immunopathology. This article reviews emerging new therapies for RA, focusing on those that will be administered by infusion, and highlights the important role of the infusion nurse in providing optimal patient care.
Leff
Linda
L
Infusion Therapy Unit, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY 10021, USA. leffL@HSS.EDU
D018501:Antirheumatic Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001172:Arthritis, Rheumatoid / Q000276:immunology / Q000451:nursing / Q000473:pathology / Q000628:therapy*; D016207:Cytokines / Q000037:antagonists & inhibitors; D006801:Humans; D007262:Infusions, Intravenous; D007279:Injections, Subcutaneous
D018501:Antirheumatic Agents; D016207:Cytokines