Tijdige behandeling reumatoïde artritis is zinvol

It is becoming clearer that early treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is useful. Recently, Dutch investigators observed a difference between RA referred early (within 12 weeks) and RA referred later (after 12 weeks). Patients who were referred earlier had a better prognosis, less damage on radiology, and a higher chance of going into remission. We discuss that these data support the importance of the early recognition of RA. Educating the public and establishing early arthritis clinics could help to prevent delay for both patient and doctor.

Conflict of interest: Professor dr W.F. Lems has received remuneration as a member of the board of directors of Abbott, Roche, Bristol-Myers Squibb and MSD. Financial support for this article: none declared.