Inclusion Criteria

Inclusion criteria:

- RA fulfilling the criteria of the american college of rheumatology (ACR) (revised
1987)

- 18 years and older

- Cervical pain

- Recent MRI with detectable atlanto-axial pannus

Exclusion criteria:

- Use of TNF-inhibitors 3 months prior to inclusion

- Previous treatment with any biologics other than TNF-Blockers

- History of inflammatory joint disease other than RA

- History of active tuberculosis, histoplasmosis or listeriosis

- History of lymphoma or other malignancies within 5 years

- Contraindication for the use of TNF inhibitors

- Comorbidities: severe myocardial dysfunction, recent stroke (within 3 months),
uncontrolled diabetes and other disease which in the opinion of the investigator,
would put the subject at risk by participation in the trial

- History of demyelinating disorders

- Persistent or recurrent infections

- Pregnancy or breast feeding