Diagnosis and management of early rheumatoid arthritis

RA is a chronic, progressive, systemic disease that leads to substantial disability when inadequately treated. Successful treatment requires early diagnosis and institution of effective DMARDs, with remission of disease activity being the ultimate goal of therapy. New biologic and immunosuppressive therapies are now available to help achieve this goal, and early consultation with a rheumatologist is advised during institution of therapy or for those not achieving remission with the above noted measures.