title: Current therapies in rheumatoid arthritis: a Latin American perspective.
abstract: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic inflammatory disease affecting the synovium of joints, tendons, and some extra-articular sites. RA prevalence in Latin America ranges from 0.4 to 1.6%. Early treatment of RA translates into a substantial reduction in the cost to society. In light of this, early disease clinics are being established in some countries. Barriers to RA management, such as delay in referral to rheumatologists and limited access to therapy, have been identified. Evidence-based treatment guidelines have been adapted by countries according to their own situations. The need for keeping accurate records of biologics prescribed has been addressed by biologic registries, thereby contributing toward a better understanding of rheumatic diseases and their treatment. Current biologics include the tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α inhibitors (etanercept, infliximab, and adalimumab), B-cell depletion agent (rituximab), interleukin-6 receptor blocker (tocilizumab), and T-cell co-stimulatory blocker (abatacept). Future therapies include kinase inhibitors (tofacitinib and fostamatinib), alternative TNF-α inhibitors (golimumab and certolizumab), and biosimilars.
authors: Department of Rheumatology, Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, Mexico City, Mexico. r.burgos.vargas@gmail.com
authors: Rubén
authors: R
authors: Burgos-Vargas
authors: Luis Jose
authors: LJ
authors: Catoggio
authors: Claudio
authors: C
authors: Galarza-Maldonado
authors: Kasmir
authors: K
authors: Ostojich
authors: Mario H
authors: MH
authors: Cardiel
mesh_terms: D018501:Antirheumatic Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D001172:Arthritis, Rheumatoid / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000191:economics / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000628:therapy; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D017281:Cost of Illness; D006297:Health Services Accessibility; D006801:Humans; D007843:Latin America / Q000453:epidemiology; D017410:Practice Guidelines as Topic; D010818:Practice Patterns, Physicians'; D015995:Prevalence; D012959:Socioeconomic Factors
chemical_list: D018501:Antirheumatic Agents