Resumo

TARR, G et al. South African Rheumatism and Arthritis Association 2024 updated guidelines for the management of rheumatoid arthritis. SAMJ, S. Afr. med. j. [online]. 2024, vol.114, n.9, pp.17-23. ISSN 2078-5135.  https://doi.org/10.7196/samj.2024.v114i9.2598.

The management of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) requires early diagnosis and prompt initiation of therapy, together with lifestyle interventions, particularly smoking cessation. These guidelines recommend a treat-to-target strategy using a composite disease activity score at each visit, with frequent follow-up and escalation or switching of disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) therapy until the goal of low disease activity is achieved. A stepwise algorithm for DMARD therapy is provided. Screening for comorbidities and vaccination is advised.

Palavras-chave : South Africa; rheumatoid arthritis.

        · texto em Inglês     · Inglês ( pdf )