The physician is considering prescribing an anti-tumor necrosis ...

[Jipu 123]

The physician is considering prescribing an anti-tumor necrosis factor (TNF) like infliximab for a rheumatoid arthritis patient.
 
  Which of the following statements is accurate about the advantages of using a TNF inhibitor?
  A)
  Since TNF inhibitors have few side effects, these drugs will fit well into your regimen.
  B)
  Your disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) methotrexate has more cardiovascular side effects than TNF inhibitors.
  C)
  TNF inhibitors help slow the disease progression and improve your ability to perform routine ADL functions.
  D)
  Not only do TNF inhibitors control your disease better but they also will interrupt the inflammatory cascade at several levels.

Question 2

A 22-year-old woman has sustained a lateral blow to her right knee during a game, and subsequent imaging has confirmed a severe meniscus injury.
 
  Which of the following consequences should the woman expect over the course of recovery? Select all that apply.
  A)
  Decreased lubrication in the knee joint
  B)
  Decreased stability of the knee
  C)
  Reduced shock absorption capacity
  D)
  Presence of infectious microorganisms in the synovial capsule
  E)
  Rapid restoration of the cartilage cells in the meniscus

[tdewitt]

Answer to Question 1

Ans:
C

Feedback:

Second-line antirheumatic drugs include anti-TNF drugs such as etanercept, infliximab, and adalimumab. These drugs are biologic response-modifying agents or TNF inhibitors that block TNF-a, one of the key proinflammatory cytokines in RA. Anti-TNF-a agents have shown significant efficacy although they do have some potential adverse side effects. Evidence indicates that CV side effects are not different for TNF inhibitors than for DMARDs. The TNF inhibitor agents also have been shown to inhibit radiologic disease progression and improve functional outcomes.

Answer to Question 2

Ans:
A, B, C

Feedback:

Meniscal injuries have consequences for the lubricating and shock absorption capacities of the meniscus and would involve decreased range of motion. An infectious process is unlikely due to the internal nature of meniscal injuries, and healing is typically very slow.