Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic, chronic, autoimmune disease characterized by inflammation in the lining of joints (or synovium), causing joint damage with chronic pain, stiffness, swelling and fatigue. RA causes limited range of motion and decreased joint function.
In Europe, more than 2.9 million people are affected by RA,[v] a condition which can severely impact patients' quality of life and can lead to increased mortality and morbidity.[vi] The condition is more common in women, who account for 75% of patients diagnosed with RA.[vii]
With appropriate treatment, patients can achieve better clinical outcomes, resulting in more active days and improved well-being.[viii]
Abatacept is one of the biologic treatment options indicated in adult patients with moderate to severely active RA for patients who respond inadequately to previous DMARDs. The approval of the new subcutaneous formulation in 2012 offers one more option, giving some patients the opportunity to treat themselves at home.
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i. Schiff M, Fleischmann R, Weinblatt M, et al. EULAR 2012 (Abstract 3409)
ii. Schiff M, Fleischmann R, Weinblatt M, et al. EULAR 2012 (Oral presentation)
iii. Orencia IV SPC. Available from: http://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/medicine... or+solution+for+infusion/ [http://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/medicine... ] Last accessed: May 2013
iv. Orencia SC SPC. Available from: http://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/medicine... pre-filled+syringe)/ [http://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/medicine...) ] Last accessed: May 2013
v. National Rheumatoid Arthritis Foundation Available at: http://www.nras.org.uk/about_rheumatoid_... ent_benefits/european_fit_for_work_report.aspx Last accessed 5 September 2012.
vi. March L and Lapsley H. "What are the costs to society and the potential benefits from the effective management of early rheumatoid arthritis?" Best Practice & Research Clinical Rheumatology 2001;15(1):171-185.
vii. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. National Institutes of Health. U.S.Department of Health and Human Services. Rheumatoid Arthritis. May 2004.
viii. American College of Rheumatology. Available at: http://www.rheumatology.org/practice/cli.... Last accessed 5 September 2012.
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