A method for predicting patient responsiveness to rheumatoid arthritis treatments involving altering expression of tumor necrosis factor superfamily (“TNFSF”)-2, TNFSF-8, or TNFSF-15 is disclosed. A method for monitoring the effectiveness of such therapy is also disclosed. Furthermore, a method of screening compounds for use in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis is disclosed. A method of monitoring the disease state over time in rheumatoid arthritis patients is also disclosed.
