Abstract

Carefully controlled observations have shown that intra-articular injections of hydrocortisone acetate in patients with rheumatoid arthritis relieve pain, improve mobility and slow down reaccumulation of fluid.¹ The viscosity of joint fluid, which is abnormally low in disease, is increased, and this may help to improve function. The relief of symptoms is non-specific and temporary. Though the subject has recently been discussed in Prescribers’ Journal,² it seems worth considering in more detail.