For this study researchers wanted to see if the sociodemographics, clinical features, and patient-reported outcomes of patients with axial spondyloarthritis in Singapore were linked to biologics introduction. From January 2011 to July 2016, data from a dedicated registry at a tertiary referral institution in Singapore was used. The key consequence of interest was the start of the first biologics. The impact of various parameters on the biological start was investigated using logistic regression analysis.
During the course of the study, 30 (15.9%) of the 189 eligible patients (aged 37.7 ± 13.3 years; 76.2% were males) were started on biologics. In the multivariable analysis model, age (OR; 0.93; 95% CI, 0.89–0.98; p < 0.01), mental component summary score of Short-Form 36 Health Survey (OR, 0.18; 95% CI, 0.03–0.89; p = 0.04), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (OR, 1.02; 95% CI, 1.00–1.04; p = 0.02), presence of peptic ulcer presence of peptic ulcer disease (OR, 10.4; 95% CI, 2.21–48.8; p < 0.01), and lack of good response to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (OR, 4.44; 95% CI, 1.63–12.1; p < 0.01) were found to be associated with biologics initiation.
The initiation of biologics was linked with age, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, mental component summary score, peptic ulcer disease comorbidities, and reactivity to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications. In order to maximize therapy, doctors must be aware of these aspects.
