Prevention of joint destruction in rheumatoid arthritis by biologics

Increased elucidation of the mechanisms of joint destruction has profoundly shaped the development of anti-cytokine therapies for rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Prevention of joint damage by biologics may successfully avoid functional decline and disability. However, treating physicians must carefully weigh the benefits of biologics against cost and their risks, particularly in patients at risk of the reactivation of tuberculosis.