Role of adalimumab in the management of children and adolescents with juvenile idiopathic arthritis and other rheumatic conditions.

ABSTRACT: Treatment of children and adolescents with juvenile idiopathic arthritis and other pediatric rheumatic diseases has evolved. Where once there was only a limited arsenal of medications, with significant side effects and inadequate efficacy, today, with an increased understanding of the pathogenesis of these diseases, there is a wider variety of more targeted and effective treatments. TNF-? is a cytokine involved in a number of inflammatory pathways in pediatric rheumatic diseases. The emergence of biologic modifiers that target TNF-? has been pivotal in providing the ability to deliver early and aggressive treatment. Adalimumab, a recombinant monoclonal antibody to TNF-?, is an important therapeutic option, which affords children and adolescents with chronic illnesses an improved quality of life.

SUBMITTER: Marzan KA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3916012 | biostudies-other | 2012

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-other