新しいリウマチ治療法

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by the progressive destruction of joints. Cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-1, IL-6 and IL-8 have a critical role in the pathogenesis of RA. Recently, etanercept and infliximab, which block the action of TNF-α, can reduce the disease activity of RA. They act more rapidly to decrease symptoms and slow joint damage in patients with early active RA than methotrexate. This article describes recent studies on anti-cytokine therapy in RA.