Efficacy of D-penicillamine and methotrexate in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis in relation to the levels of circulating rheumatoid factors of different classes

Aim. To optimize treatment for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and to define indications for D-penicillamine and methotrexate therapies on an individual basis by taking into account the levels of rheumatoid factor (RF) isotopes circulating in blood. Materials and methods. A total of 105 patients (mean age 46.39 +/- 1.35 years) with varying RA were observed. Indirect solid-phase enzyme immunoassay was used to analyze RF isotopes; the pattern of the disease and the efficiency of therapy for RA were compared with the patients' immunity. Results. With elevated RF IgG levels, the cardiovascular system, thyroid, mucous membranes were found to be more frequently impaired and vasculitis was diagnosed. Conclusion. The use of cuprenil and methotrexate in RA substantially improves patients' immunity.