GOLD SALTS IN THE TREATMENT OF RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS; A STUDY OF 245 CASES

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Abstract
Nine yrs.'' experience with the use of Au salts in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis shows that Au is the best single agent available for the treatment of this disease. In 235 cases presenting the typical symptoms and signs of rheumatoid arthritis, to whom Au salts were administered in adequate dosage (above 0.5 g. total), remission or marked improvement occurred in 62%. The results of treatment are better the earlier in the course of the disease treatment is started. Gold sodium thiomalate (Myochrisine), aurothioglucose (Solganal-B Oleosum) and gold sodium thiosulfate were the agents used by the investigators in this study. There are 2 factors which detract from this form of treatment. One is the high incidence of relapses, 42% of the patients, who received marked benefit from.Au therapy. The other is the high incidence of toxic reactions, manifested chiefly as dermatitis and stomatitis. Au therapy can be a dangerous form of treatment and requires close observation of the patients and frequent examination of the blood and urine. In spite of its dangers, however, its beneficial effect on the course of rheumatoid arthritis would seem to justify its use in patients who can tolerate the drug.