**New Treatment for Seronegative Rheumatoid Arthritis: Targeting Flagging Flu**.
A new study published in the journal *Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases* has identified a potential new treatment for seronegative rheumatoid arthritis (RA), a type of RA that is not characterized by the presence of rheumatoid factor (RF) or anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP) antibodies in the blood. The study found that a drug called fluticasone propionate, which is commonly used to treat asthma, may be effective in reducing disease activity in patients with seronegative RA..
**What is Seronegative Rheumatoid Arthritis?**.
Seronegative RA is a type of RA that is characterized by inflammation of the synovium, the lining of the joints. Symptoms of seronegative RA can include joint pain, swelling, and stiffness, as well as fatigue, weight loss, and fever. Seronegative RA is often more difficult to diagnose than seropositive RA, as it does not typically produce the antibodies that are used to diagnose seropositive RA..
**How Does Fluticasone Propionate Work?**.
Fluticasone propionate is a corticosteroid that works by reducing inflammation. It is commonly used to treat asthma, as it helps to reduce airway inflammation and prevent asthma attacks. In the study, researchers found that fluticasone propionate may also be effective in reducing disease activity in patients with seronegative RA..
**The Study**.
The study included 60 patients with seronegative RA who were randomly assigned to receive either fluticasone propionate or a placebo for 12 weeks. The researchers found that the patients who received fluticasone propionate had a significant reduction in disease activity, as measured by the Disease Activity Score in 28 joints (DAS28). The DAS28 is a measure of disease activity in RA that takes into account the number of swollen and tender joints, the patient’s global assessment of disease activity, and the patient’s level of disability..
The researchers also found that the patients who received fluticasone propionate had a significant improvement in their physical function and quality of life..
**Implications of the Study**.
The findings of this study suggest that fluticasone propionate may be a potential new treatment for seronegative RA. Fluticasone propionate is a well-tolerated drug with a low risk of side effects, making it a good option for patients with seronegative RA who are looking for a safe and effective treatment..
**Further Research**.
Further research is needed to confirm the findings of this study and to determine the long-term efficacy and safety of fluticasone propionate for the treatment of seronegative RA. However, the findings of this study are promising and suggest that fluticasone propionate may be a valuable new treatment option for patients with this condition..
