Effects of modulation of inflammatory and immune parameters in patients with rheumatic and inflammatory disease receiving dietary supplementation of n-3 and n-6 fatty acids.

To describe the rationale and status of n-3 and n-6 fatty acid dietary supplementation in patients with inflammatory disease. The most recent literature is reviewed with a focus on rheumatoid arthritis (RA) as most investigations have described the use of n-3 supplements in this disease entity. Investigations from Europe, the United States, and Australia have described consistent improvement in tender joint scores with many investigators also observing improvements in morning stiffness. A meta analysis has confirmed the predictable improvement in tender joints. Recent studies also suggest that some patients with RA are able to discontinue nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) while receiving n-3 fatty acids. A large number of peer reviewed publications from around the world have established the utility of dietary supplementation with n-3 fatty acids in reducing tender joint counts and morning stiffness in patients with RA. Some patients are also able to discontinue NSAIDs while on these supplements.