Novel Treatments in Refractory Recurrent Pericarditis

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Immunology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Refractory recurrent pericarditis significantly impacts patient quality of life and healthcare costs.
• Limited therapeutic options historically led to chronic glucocorticoid use and steroid dependence.
• The autoinflammatory nature of pericarditis, involving interleukin-1, underpins new treatment strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current evidence on interleukin-1 blocker (IL-1B) use in refractory recurrent pericarditis.
• To discuss indications, efficacy, safety, and treatment protocols for IL-1B therapies.
• To explore novel treatments and future perspectives for recurrent pericarditis management.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive review of original research and real-world data.
• Analysis of clinical trial outcomes and observational studies.
• Synthesis of information on IL-1B mechanism of action, efficacy, and safety profiles.

Main Results:

• Interleukin-1 blockers demonstrate excellent efficacy and a favorable safety profile in treating glucocorticoid-dependent and colchicine-resistant recurrent pericarditis.
• IL-1B therapies have revolutionized management, offering an alternative to chronic steroid use.
• Emerging treatments like hydroxychloroquine, beta blockers, and cannabidiol show promising preliminary results.

Conclusions:

• Interleukin-1 blockers are a cornerstone in managing refractory recurrent pericarditis.
• Further research is needed to address knowledge gaps and unmet needs in recurrent pericarditis treatment.
• Future perspectives include optimizing IL-1B protocols and evaluating novel therapeutic agents.