Article Text
Abstract
Background Many randomized controlled trials (RCT:s) have shown excellent remission rates in ERA. However, the data concerning usual rheumatologic care of ERA is scarce and reported remission rates low.
Objectives To describe remission rates and used medications in patients with ERA treated in a county hospital rheumatology outpatient clinic 2008-2011.
Methods In the healthcare district of ca 280 000, all possible ERA-patients are referred to rheumatology clinic which applies the T2T principle, electronic monitoring of patients at each visit, and multidisciplinary care. Patients with new clinical diagnosis of ERA 2008-2011 were identified from the database including clinical characteristics and patient reported outcomes (PRO’s). Clinical and treating variables between the groups were compared with non/parametric tests and Chi square test when applicable.
Results In 2008-2011, 409 patients were clinically diagnosed as ERA, and among of 406 who had data for classification according to 2010 ACR/EULAR RA criteria, 310 were classified as RA, and 96 as undifferentiated arthritis (UA), respectively. Clinical and treatment comparisons are presented in Table. DAS28(ESR-3 variables) remission rates were at 3mo 58% vs 67% in UA vs.RA and at 12mo 79% vs 71% (p=n.s., Figure).
Conclusions Good clinical results are achievable in ERA and UA patients in usual care.
References Ma MH, Scott IC, Kingsley GH, Scott DL Remission in early rheumatoid arthritis J Rheumatol 2010 Jul;37(7):1444-53
Disclosure of Interest None Declared