Continuing Medical Education
Superheroes in autoimmune warfare: Biologic therapies in current SA practice
Abstract
Biologic drugs targeting immune cells or cytokines underlying systemic inflammation have dramatically improved outcomes in patients with rheumatological and autoimmune diseases. Nine biologic drugs are currently available in South Africa (SA) – all showing good efficacy and safety profiles. Their high cost and potential adverse events preclude them from being used as first-line agents. They are therefore indicated for severe disease refractory to standard therapies, and their use must be initiated by a specialist. The most important adverse effect of this class of drugs is infection and, in SA, tuberculosis is of particular concern. As new targets in the immune system are identified, new biologics will be developed. The current challenges are to optimise standard care for all patients with autoimmune diseases, and to offer the appropriate biologic to patients with refractory disease.
Authors' affiliations
G Tarr, Winelands Rheumatology Research Centre, Stellenbosch, South Africa
B Hodkinson, Department of Medicine, Groote Schuur Hospital and University of Cape Town, and Division of Rheumatology, Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
H Reuter, Winelands Rheumatology Research Centre, Stellenbosch, South Africa Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
Keywords
Cite this article
Article History
Date published: 2014-10-07
Article Views
Full text views: 14367
Comments on this article
*Read our policy for posting comments here