Infliximab treatment in ankylosing spondylitis: an observational study. Issue 6 (25th November 2004)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Nikas, S N; Alamanos, Y; Voulgari, P V; Pliakou, X I; Papadopoulos, C G; Drosos, A A
• Is Part Of: Annals of the rheumatic diseases. Volume 64:Issue 6(2005)
• Page Start: 940
• Page End: 942
• Publication Date: 2004-11-25
• Subjects: AS, ankylosing spondylitis -- ASAS, Ankylosing Spondylitis Assessment Study Group -- BASDAI, Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index -- BASFI, Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Functional Index -- CRP, C reactive protein -- HACA, human antichimeric antibodies -- NSAIDs, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs -- RA, rheumatoid arthritis -- VAS, visual analogue scale; ASAS -- ankylosing spondylitis -- BASDAI -- compliance -- infliximab; Rheumatism -- Periodicals; 616.723005
• DOI: 10.1136/ard.2004.029900
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0003-4967

Abstract

Abstract : Objective: To investigate efficacy, toxicity, and drug discontinuation in patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS) treated with infliximab. Methods: 35 patients with AS with mean (SD) age 42.5 (12.6) years and mean (SD) disease duration 14.5 (8.0) years were studied for 2 years. Patients entering the study had a negative tuberculin skin test, were fully informed about the treatment, and were followed up regularly. Infliximab, 5 mg/kg weight, was given intravenously at weeks 0, 2, 6, and every 8 weeks thereafter. Data concerning infliximab tolerability, adverse events, interval, and drug discontinuation were all recorded. Clinical improvement according to the BASDAI and the Ankylosing Spondylitis Assessment Study group (ASAS) 20%, 40%, and ASAS 5/6 response criteria were recorded. Results: After 1 year, 20 (57%) patients achieved the BASDAI 50% response criteria, 25 (71%) achieved ASAS 20%, 23 (66%) reached ASAS 40%, and 18 (51%) attained ASAS 5/6. After 2 years' treatment, 11 (31%) patients achieved BASDAI 50% response criteria, 14 (40%) ASAS 20%, 11 (31%) ASAS 40%, and 9 (26%) ASAS 5/6. Clinical improvement was associated with an improved BASFI and reduction of CRP. After 2 years' treatment, "infliximab survival" was 89%. Treatment was well tolerated and adverse events were mild; 3 patients discontinued the study. Conclusion: Infliximab was effective, safe, and well tolerated in patients with AS.