Journal of Medical Diagnostic Methods
Open Access
ISSN: 2168-9784
ISSN: 2168-9784
Cinzia Casu
Italy
Research Article
Clinical and Serological Response to Tocilizumab in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis
Author(s): Oscar Epis, Claudia Alpini, Sara Marceglia, Cinzia Casu, Luca Giacomelli and Eleonora BruschiOscar Epis, Claudia Alpini, Sara Marceglia, Cinzia Casu, Luca Giacomelli and Eleonora Bruschi
Objective: The role of rheumatoid factor (RF) and anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibodies (anti-CCP) in the response to treatment for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) such as tocilizumab (TCZ) is still not completely understood. This study investigates the relationship between the presence and levels of RF and anti-CCP and clinical response to TCZ in patients with RA.
Methods: This was an observational longitudinal study in 27 patients with active, long-standing RA despite previous treatment with >2 Disease-Modifying Anti Rheumatic Drugs (DMARDs) and/or steroids. Patients were treated with TCZ 8 mg/kg every 4 weeks. The following parameters were assessed: Erythro Sedimentation Rate (ESR), C - reactive protein (CRP), Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ), Disease Activity Score of 28 joints (DAS28), Clinical Disease Activity Index (CDAI) and Simplified Disease Activity Index.. Read More»
DOI:
10.4172/2168-9784.1000127