Objective: To explore the application and efficacy of TNF-α inhibitors in the treatment of SAPHO syndrome.
Methods: Two cases of refractory SAPHO syndrome were successfully treated with etanercept. And pain scores, laboratory parameters and functional index were used to judge the efficacies. Literature was also systemically reviewed.
Results: Both patients achieved marked clinical remission. There was no obvious toxic or adverse response.
Conclusion: Etanercept has rapid and definite efficacies in the treatment of patients with refractory SAPHO syndrome.
Keywords: SAPHO syndrome; discitis; etanercept; tumor necrosis factor-alpha.