Predicting response to anti-TNFα therapy among patients with axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA): results from BSRBR-AS

Abstract

Objectives. While many axSpA patients, eligible to receive anti-TNF alpha therapy, derive benefit when prescribed them, some patients do not. The current study aims to identify modifiable targets to improve outcome as well as non-modifiable targets that identify groups less likely to derive benefit. Methods. The BSRBR-AS is a prospective cohort study of axSpA patients who, at recruitment, were naive to biologic therapy. Those in the 'biologic' sub-cohort commenced their first anti-TNF alpha therapy at recruitment or during follow-up. Prior to commencement, information was collected on socio-economic, clinical and patient-reported factors. Outcome was assessed according to ASAS20, ASAS40, ASDAS reduction and achieving a moderate/inactive ASDAS disease state. Results. 335 participants commenced their first anti-TNF alpha therapy and were followed up at a median of 14 (interquartile range 12-17) weeks. Response varied between 33% and 52% according to criteria used. Adverse socioeconomic factors, fewer years in education predicted lower likelihood of response across outcome measures as did not working full-time. Co-morbidities and poor mental health were clinical and patient-reported factors, respectively, associated with lack of response. The models, particularly those using ASDAS, were good at predicting those who did not respond (negative predictive value (NPV) 77%). Conclusion. Some factors predicting non-response (such as mental health) are modifiable but many (such as social/economic factors) are not modifiable in clinic. They do, however, identify patients who are unlikely to benefit from biologic therapy alone. Priority should focus on how these patients receive the benefits that many derive from such therapies.