Pathology and Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis: Introduction

Faculty

Needs Statement

Biologic agents that block TNF have proven highly effective in improving the signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), preventing the progression of joint damage, and improving functional status and quality of life. The introduction of TNF inhibitors has helped elevate the goals of treating RA, such that low disease activity or even remission are commonly considered appropriate therapeutic aims. Although they can be effective, up to half of patients treated with TNF inhibitors may not reach such optimal levels of disease control, suggesting that additional mechanisms are important in disease pathogensis and may be useful targets for therapy.

IL-6 is a proinflammatory cytokine associated with both the joint disease and systemic comorbidities associated with RA. The symposium will describe the role of IL-6 in the RA cytokine network. It will also review the incidence, risk factors and consequences of cardiovascular disease and the anemia of chronic disease, two principal comorbid conditions associated with RA.

The results of current clinical trials of tocilizumab, a direct IL-6 receptor inhibitor, will also be reviewed. The discussion will include effects on joint disease and on major RA comorbidities, focusing on the potential therapeutic benefits and challenges.

 

Target Audience

This activity is intended for Physicians, Pharmacists, and Nurses whose specialty is Rheumatology.

Objectives

1. Describe the role of IL-6 in the cytokine network associated with RA pathogenesis;
2. Explain how IL-6 contributes to cardiovascular disease, and anemia of chronic disease, the principal systemic complications of RA;
3. Discuss the relative benefits and challenges associated with the clinical use of the first direct IL-6 receptor inhibitor, tocilizumab, on articular and systemic manifestations of RA;
4. Discuss the relative benefits and challenges associated with the clinical use of the first direct IL-6 raceptor inhibitor, tocilizumab, on articular and systemic manifestations of RA.

Faculty Disclosure

Dr. Kavanaugh receives contract research support from Roche.

 

 

Activity Sponsorship

This activity is jointly sponsored by the University of Kentucky and CTI Clinical Trial & Consulting Services. Supported by an unrestricted educational grant from Roche Laboratories Inc..