Intrathecal doses based on body surface area (i.e., 12 mg/m 2, maximum 15 mg) reported to result in low CSF methotrexate concentrations and reduced efficacy in pediatric patients. 262 Optimal care of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) consists of an integrated approach that includes both pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic therapies. Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by inflammation and by joint destruction that leads to substantial disability. Inflammatory Arthritis Clinic. The Inflammatory Arthritis Clinic assesses and treats patients affected with inflammatory arthritis. The IAC includes health providers dedicated to the care and improved understanding of these disorders. Methotrexate (MTX) monotherapy is a common first treatment for rheumatoid arthritis (RA), but many patients do not respond adequately. In order to identify genetic predictors of response, we have. The treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is directed toward the control of synovitis and the prevention of joint injury. Support for an early aggressive appro Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic disorder for which there is no known cure. Fortunately in the last few years, a shift in strategy toward the earlier institution of disease modifying drugs and the availability of new classes of medications have greatly improved the outcomes that can be expected by most patients. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is often characterized by the burden of swollen joints, pain, and decreased physical function, but less understood are the many manifestations of additional health conditions that are associated with RA and its treatments. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic systemic inflammatory disease of unknown cause. The hallmark feature of this condition is persistent symmetric polyarthritis (synovitis) that affects the hands and feet, though any joint lined by a synovial membrane may be involved. REFERENCES. Singh JA, Furst DE, Bharat A, et al. 2012 update of the 2008 American College of Rheumatology recommendations for the use of disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs and biologic agents in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.