Alternative interpretation of data for recommendations on how to manage rheumatoid arthritis

This letter is inspired by the ‘EULAR recommendations for the management of rheumatoid arthritis with synthetic and biological disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs: 2016 update’.1

There is no question that we are in full agreement with the overarching principles of the EULAR recommendations. What goes against our principles, however, is the tone of the bullet points. Research that has formed the basis of a robust evidence base practised for years in various countries across the globe has been sidetracked and overlooked.2–4

As an alternative interpretation of the existing data and hands-on guidance on cost-effective rheumatology care, we refer to the current care guidelines for the management of rheumatoid arthritis formulated by the Finnish Medical Society Duodecim and the Finnish Rheumatology Society, published in 2015 and now available in English (or rather Finglish).5

The Finnish Medical Society Duodecim has created a system for the production...