Autio, Reijo A. MD; Karppinen, Jaro MD, DMSc ; Niinimaki, Jaakko MD; Ojala, Risto MD, DMSc; Veeger, Nic MSc; Korhonen, Timo MD; Hurri, Heikki MD, DMSc; Tervonen, Osmo MD, DMSc.
The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of infliximab on herniated nucleus pulposus (HNP) resorption. Although the effects of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-[alpha]) on HNP resorption are not fully understood, TNF-[alpha] appears to be an essential mediator in HNP resorption. The reulsts showed that HNP volume decreased significantly from baseline to 6 months in both treatment groups, with no difference noted between the infliximab and placebo groups. The authors conclude that Infliximab did not appear to interfere with disc herniation resorption over a 6-month period.
Spine. 31(23):2641-2645, November 1, 2006.