Effect of TCZ therapy and other confounding factors for the increase of Hb levels.

The effect size of TCZ therapy and other confounding factors for the increase of Hb levels after treatment was analyzed by the multivariate analysis of covariance. Disease activity and clinical response was assessed by CDAI and ΔCDAI in model 1, and CRP and ΔCRP in model 2, respectively. (ΔCDAI = CDAI at baseline – CDAI at week 12, ΔCRP = CRP at baseline – CRP at week 12). TCZ, tocilizumab; Hb, hemoglobin; LHD%, low hemoglobin density; CDAI, clinical disease activity index; CRP, C-reactive protein; mHAQ, modified health assessment questionnaire-disability index.