Intra-articular 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) in antigen-induced arthritis: Effect of timing on response

An experimental antigen-induced arthritis has been described which closely resembles human rheumatoid arthritis. The effectiveness of intra-articular 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) in combatting the initial stages of this reaction has been confirmed. These studies also indicate that there is no necessity for pretreatment or immediate treatment, so long as the drug is administered relatively early in the course of the disease. Although further animal experimentation is required to establish the mechanisms of action and to determine the long term effects of 5-FU, its possible role in the management of human rheumatoid arthritis might be given further consideration.