Pediatric Rheumatology Online Journal → June 2003 → Medical Treatment → Anti-tumor necrosis factor therapy→ Abstract #51
                                                                August 2003 → Newer Treatments → Anti-Tumor Necrosis Factor Therapy → Abstract #51

THERAPEUTIC USE OF ETANERCEPT IN POLYARTICULAR COURSE JUVENILE RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS OVER A 3-4 YEAR PERIOD

T. L. Moore,¹ U. Daud,¹ D. A. Kietz,¹ P. H. Pepmueller.¹

¹Pediatric Rheumatology, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO

Objective: We analyzed the treatment response and safety of etanercept in patients with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA) over a 3-4 year period.
Methods: 25 patients with polyarticular course JRA (20 females, five males; mean age 14.2 years; mean disease duration 6.8 years; 18 with polyarticular onset, seven with systemic onset, one with residual systemic activity; seven rheumatoid factor positive; eight with erosive disease) were treated with etanercept for up to 50 months. Etanercept was given subcutaneously at 0.4 mg/kg twice a week. Treatment response was ascertained in an open prospective study.
Results: The average amount of time taking etanercept was 37 months. All patients showed impressive clinical improvement, with a decrease in swollen joint count by an average of 9.7 joints (mean of 50% decrease), a decrease in tender joint count by 5. 9 joints (mean of 62%), and a decrease in duration of morning stiffness to less than 15 minutes (mean of 79%). Hemoglogin concentration increased on average by 14 g/l (mean of 13.4%), and erythrocyte sedimentation rate decreased on average by 28.7 mm/1st h (mean decrease of 62%). No major side effects were noted.
Conclusion: Etanercept continues to be clinically effective and well tolerated in patients with polyarticular course JRA over a 3-4 year period.