The safety and efficacy of chicken type II collagen on uveitis associated with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis.

Publication Type
Journal Article
Year of Publication
2002
Authors
Thompson, Darby J S; Barron, Karyl S; Whitcup, Scott M; Robinson, Michael R
Secondary
Ocul Immunol Inflamm
Volume
10
Pagination
83-91
Date Published
2002 Jun
Keywords
Administration, Oral; Adolescent; Arthritis, Juvenile; Child; Child, Preschool; chronic disease; Collagen Type II; Female; Humans; Male; Pilot Projects; Prospective Studies; safety; Uveitis, Anterior
Abstract

PURPOSE: To investigate the safety and efficacy of chicken type II collagen in treating uveitis associated with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA).

METHODS: A prospective dose-ranging (60 and 540 microg) pilot study of orally administered chicken type II collagen in 13 participants, aged 2-18 years, with JRA and uveitis and without prior exposure to collagens. Anterior chamber cells, flare, vitreous haze, visual acuity, and concomitant anti-inflammatory medications were the ophthalmic outcomes. Arthritis outcomes included the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) core set.

RESULTS: No serious or related adverse events were reported. Four participants (2 low dose, 2 high dose) experienced improvement in ophthalmic outcome, while two participants (1 in each group) worsened (p > 0.5). According to ACR criteria, six participants showed improvement in JRA.

CONCLUSIONS: Although appearing safe, clearly demonstrating the efficacy of this treatment for JRA or uveitis remains a challenge. Based on the results from this pilot study, a large positive treatment effect on uveitis is unlikely.