Methods and assays examining expression of one or more biomarkers in a
sample are provided for predicting or indicating the effectiveness of
treatment of a rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patient with a B-cell
antagonist. Methods are provided for identifying patients whose RA is
likely to be responsive to anti-RA therapy using a B-cell-antagonist.
Methods for treating such patients with B-cell antagonists that
incorporate the above methodology are also provided. Further provided are
kits and articles of manufacture useful for such methods.