Biologic treatments for rheumatoid arthritis

SummaryIn recent years biologic therapies have delivered significant symptomatic benefit in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and have maintained patient functional ability by reducing erosions to the joints, and subsequent loss of joint space. This article outlines the principles of biologic therapy before considering the care of a 75 year old lady with rheumatoid arthritis, and the responsibilities of the rheumatology nurse.