Effects of 1-year anti-TNF-α therapies on bone mineral density and bone biomarkers in rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis

Abstract

Anti-TNF therapy slowed down generalized bone loss, in association with clinical improvements, in both diseases. TNF blockade may enhance bone formation and suppress joint destruction. Anti-TNF therapy may act inversely on DKK-1 and SOST. Independent predictors of BMD were SOST and βCTX in RA, whilst CRP in AS.Key Points• One-year anti-TNF therapy halted generalized bone loss in association with clinical improvement in arthritides.• Anti-TNF therapy may inversely act on DKK-1 and SOST.• Independent predictors of BMD were SOST and βCTX in RA, while CRP in AS.