Research

The rheumatology team is constantly seeking to improve care for our patients and therefore continue to run and manage a programme of clinically based research studies such as those listed below.

These studies often involve patients from other hospitals. They could be national, european or, indeed, worldwide studies. Studies involving new or existing drug therapies are either sponsored by a pharmaceutical company or by an academic institution, or by a combination of both.

You may be approached during your clinic appointments or by letter to participate in studies. If so, you will be provided with information sheets, given the opportunity to ask any questions, and given time to decide whether you want to participate. Participation in drug studies is entirely voluntary. Nobody will be offended if you decide not to take part, and your medical treatment will not be affected in anyway.

The clinical trials are managed by a research nurse and research assistant, working closely with the rheumatology doctors and practitioners.

New and Ongoing Studies

British Society of Rheumatology (BSR) Register – a register of patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis, Psoriatic Arthritis and Ankylosing Spondylitis who are taking disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) or having biologic therapy (Anti-TNF –Etanercept, Infliximab or Adalimumab). This is managed in conjunction with Manchester University.

Rituximab or Placebo in Rheumatoid Arthritis – this is a clinical trial of a new treatment for rheumatoid arthritis. This study is managed by Roche Pharmaceuticals.

Trace – Trial of Atorvastatin/placebo for the primary prevention of cardiovascular events in Rheumatoid Arthritis. Many patients have been approached about this study and we now have several people who are already participating in this study.

Certrolizumab pegol – We will soon be starting a study for a new type of Anti TNF or biologic therapy, which we will be able to offer to patients with low to moderate disease activity.

Rheumatology Practitioner Care Study - this is a study involving patients with rheumatoid arthritis that will monitor rheumatology practitioner care and patient management and compare it to rheumatology consultant care. Patients participating in this study will be randomly allocated to either see one of the rheumatology practitioners over the period of a year or to see the consultant alone. This study is sponsored by the University of Leeds.

Breaking News!

We will be starting studies for new treatments for fibromyalgia. If you are interested in finding out more, or would like to participate in any of the studies, please ask your rheumatology practitioner or contact the department’s research nurse, Julia Taylor, on 01202 448307.

Where Can I Find Out More About Research?

Arthritis Research Campaign (arc) produces a leaflet. Contact Arthritis Research Campaign, Copeman House, St Mary’s Court, St Mary’sGate, Chesterfield, Derbyshire, S41 7TD or visit their website www.arc.org.uk/research

INVOLVE promotes public involvement in NHS, public health and social care research. Visit their website at www.invo.org.uk