Tailored arthritis treatment on the way with new test
A SIMPLE blood test could lead to a "new era" of tailored therapy for rheumatoid arthritis (RA), it was claimed yesterday.
Research has shown patients with certain immune system antibodies can respond to an advanced form of treatment.
Eight out of 10 patients suffering from RA are believed to have one of the two antibodies.
Trial results presented yesterday show they have a good chance of being helped by the drug rituximab, also known as MabThera.
However, it may not be worth giving the drug to the 20pc of patients who test negative.
Professor John Isaacs, from Newcastle University, who led the research, said: "This is an important breakthrough in the treatment of this chronic and debilitating condition, heralding the beginning of an exciting new era for patients, physicians and the entire RA community."
RA is a disabling auto-immune disorder in which the immune system attacks the body's own joints.
"By identifying in advance which groups are most likely to respond to drugs like rituximab, we can ensure they are treated early enough to prevent irreversible joint damage."
Irish Independent
