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Approach to Initial Medical Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis
David G. Borenstein, MD;
Gary Silver, MD;
Ellen Jenkins, MD
Arch Fam Med. 1993;2(5):545-551.
Abstract
In this article, we review the first line of therapy for rheumatoid arthritis. The components of first-line therapy include patient education, rest, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents. We discuss each of these components in detail. Factors that might necessitate the addition of second-line agents (corticosteroids, antimalarials, gold salts, penicillamine, immunosuppressives, and surgery) are also outlined.
Author Affiliations
From the Division of Rheumatology, The George Washington University Medical Center, Washington, DC.
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