Program Goals
Rheumatologists need to understand the importance of interleukin-1 (IL-1) in the pathophysiology of rheumatoid arthritis.

The goal of this program is to educate practitioners who treat rheumatoid arthritis about the role of interleukin-1 in the pathophysiology of rheumatoid arthritis.

Disclaimer
In weighing the benefits of treatment against the risks, physicians should be guided by clinical judgment. Dosages, indications, and methods for use of drugs and procedures referred to in this monograph may reflect the clinical experience of the authors or may be derived from the professional literature or other clinical sources. Consult complete prescribing information before administering any of the drugs discussed.

• Recognize the importance of interleukin-1 (IL-1) as a pro-inflammatory cytokine in the synovium in rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
  
• Describe the role of a balance between endogenous production of IL-1 and endogenous IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra) in preventing the development of inflammatory diseases.
  
• Identify the pathophysiology and cytokine profile in the in vivo rat adjuvant-induced arthritis model of RA.
  
• Understand how animal models of RA can be modulated therapeutically as RA mimics.
  
• Realize the potential role of recombinant human interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1ra) in treating the signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis alone or in combination with methotrexate.
  
• Describe the role of IL-1ra in retarding the progression of RA.
  
• Discuss the evolution of treatment patterns in RA.
  
• Relate advances in the pathophysiologic understanding of RA to the development and use of new biologic therapies.