Increased GM-CSF Levels Are Predictor Of High Disease Activity, Poor Response To TCZ Therapy Among Patients With Severe RA, Study Finds

Rheumatology Advisor (9/3, Stroka) reports, “Increased baseline levels of granulocyte macrophage-colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF) are a predictor of high disease activity and poor response to tocilizumab (TCZ) therapy among patients with severe rheumatoid arthritis (RA), according to study results.” Researchers found that “compared against those with low levels, patients with high levels of GM-CSF at 24 weeks had greater DAS28-ESR [disease activity scores in 28 joints with erythrocyte sedimentation rate] values and increased serum levels of interleukin (IL)-17A, IL-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor alpha at baseline.” The findings were published in Arthritis Research & Therapy.