PHARMACOTHERAPY FOR SPONDILOARTHROPATHIES
Authors:
Đurđica Babić-Naglić
Summary
Since decade ago spondyloarthropathies (SpA) were neglected group of rheumatic disorders because of narrow therapeutic window. Main managing principles are described with emphasis to the assement of disease activity and distribution of pathological changes. Nonsteroidal antirheumatic drugs (NSAID) and physical therapy are still cornerstone for axial disease. Sulphasalzine and methotrexate are first choice considering peripheral arthritis. Biologic agents are effective in active vertebral and extravertebral disease. Local corticosteroid injection is favourable method for enthesitis and oligoarthritis and systemic treatment is indicated in patients during flare up of inflammation. Pamidronate and thalidomid are potential new agents for refractory cases.