Guidelines for the management of rheumatoid arthritis: 2002 update - American College of Rheumatology Subcommittee on Rheumatoid Arthritis Guidelines

RA is a chronic progressive polyarthritis (with varying systemic features) associated with substantial disability and economic losses. Successful treatment to limit joint damage and functional loss requires early diagnosis and timely initiation of disease-modifying agents. The goal of treatment is to arrest the disease and to achieve remission. Although remission occurs infrequently, patients may benefit from nonpharmacologic, pharmacologic, and if necessary, surgical interventions. Optimal longitudinal treatment requires comprehensive coordinated care and the expertise of a number of health care providers. Essential components of management include systematic and regular evaluation of disease activity, patient education/rehabilitation interventions, use of DMARDs, possible use of local or low-dose oral glucocorticoids, minimization of the impact on the individual's function, assessment of the adequacy of the treatment program, and general health maintenance.