[2018 Chinese guideline for the diagnosis and treatment of rheumatoid arthritis]

Abstract

To develop a new evidence-based diagnosis, treatment guideline for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in China.A multidisciplinary guideline development group was established. The grading of recommendations assessment, development and evaluation (GRADE) system was used to rate the quality of evidence and the strength of recommendations. Recommendations were derived from evidence body, the balance of benefits and harmsand patient's values and preferences.The guideline development group developed 10 recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of RA. The guideline covered the classification criteria, disease activity monitoring and assessing, antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and glucocorticoids with treat-to-target approach of RA.This rheumatoid arthritis guideline was intended to serve as a tool for clinicians and patients for best decisions-making in China.

Keywords: Arthritis, rheumatoid; Diagnosis; Guideline; Therapy.