BIOLOGICAL THERAPY ON RHEUMATOID VASCULITIS: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

Rheumatoid vasculitis (RV) is one of the most severe extra-articular manifestations of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). RV affects a subset of patients with established RA (approximately 2 to 5%). The morbidity and mortality of rheumatoid vasculitis are significant. Studies have shown that the 5-year mortality rate is 30% to 50% with high morbidities. For the treatment of mild rheumatoid vasculitis (affecting the skin and nerves) is typically treated with prednisone and methotrexate or azathioprine. Cases that are more serious may require treatment with higher-dose steroids and cyclophosphamide or biological agents. Aim: To describe the use of biological agents in the treatment of rheumatoid vasculitis, as well as to compare the efficacy and safety between these drugs.