Pharmacogenomics in pediatric rheumatology

Purpose of review Despite major advancements in therapeutics, variability in drug response remains a challenge in both adults and children diagnosed with rheumatic disease. The genetic contribution to interindividual variability has emerged as a promising avenue of exploration; however, challenges remain in making this knowledge relevant in the clinical realm. Recent findings New genetic associations in patients with rheumatic disease have been reported for disease modifying antirheumatic drugs, antimetabolites and biologic drugs. However, many of these findings are in need of replication, and few have taken into account the concept of ontogeny, specific to pediatrics. Summary In the current era in which we practice, genetic variation will undoubtedly contribute to variability in therapeutic response and may be a factor that will ultimately impact individualized care. However, preliminary studies have shown that there are many hurdles that need to be overcome as we explore pharmacogenomic associations specifically in the field of pediatric rheumatology.