The British Society of Rheumatology Releases Updated Anti-TNF Agent Guidelines

Biologic therapies have transformed the management of inflammatory arthritis (IA). When using these type of therapies, patients can benefit from a more targeted approach and remission is much more likely. However, there are risks when using these types of biologic therapies. In a study published in Rheumatology, this guideline supersedes the previous BSR/BHPR anti-TNF, rituximab, and tocilizumab guidelines and has been developed in line with the BSR Guidelines Protocol. 

Read the brand new @RheumatologyUK biologic #DMARD safety guidelines in inflammatory #arthritis online now https://t.co/VV8yBlwroY #DMARDs

— Rheumatology & Rheumatology Advances in Practice (@RheumJnl) August 22, 2018

The first guidelines on safety of anti-TNF agents in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) were released by the British Society of Rheumatology in 2001. The guidelines were updated in 2005, and then 2010. According to the study, these guidelines covered the indications and precautions for the use of anti-TNF agents, and the action that should be taken in the case of an adverse event. As these guidelines are updated, the focus is to provide information on evidence-based recommendations for the safe use of biologic therapies in adults (aged >18 years). 

Just published: our new NICE accredited guideline 'Biologic DMARD safety guideline in #inflammatory #arthritis' is now available to view here. @RheumJnl @NICEcomms https://t.co/dDjf7rznF6

— BSR (@RheumatologyUK) August 22, 2018

There are several specific safety areas discussed in the guidelines, including: 

• The recommendations for baseline screening prior to initiation 
• The recommendations for monitoring 
• The implications of co-morbid disease and ageing 
• Vaccinations and the management of biologic therapies in specific situations such as infection 
• Malignancy and the peri-operative window 

"It is essential that data on the safety of these products continue to be captured."
New @RheumatologyUK biologic DMARD safety guidelines in inflammatory arthritis.https://t.co/PPBtLGZel5#BSR_PsA @UoAEpi @BSRBR_RA

— Gareth Jones (@hteraG_senoJ) August 22, 2018

Check out an article on if tumor necrosis factor inhibitors (TNFi) treatment in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is really associated with an increased risk for cancer recurrence.  

SOURCE: Rheumatology