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Overall flares, self-reported flares found as predictors of structural damage in RA patients
Results from this study cited overall flares and self-reported flares as predictors of structural damage in patients with rheumatoid arthritis; however, short flares did not impact radiographic progression.
Using a database, researchers reviewed the records of 149 patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) who had a readmission period of at least 24 months, and stable biologic and synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drug treatment. The patients had no missed follow-up visits and had radiographs of their hands and feet at the start of the study and at the end of the 24-month follow-up. Investigators assessed patients every 3 months and recorded flares. Multivariate regression analysis was used to assess the impact self-reported flares, overall flares and short flares had on radiographic progression of RA.
Results showed the median number of overall flares was one per year. The mean number of self-reported flares was 0.5 per year and the number of short flares was 0.34 per year. Investigators noted 18 patients had progression of radiographic damage. No patients had experienced flares lasting longer than 30 days. Independent factors for radiographic progression were overall flares (odds ratio of 3.27) and self-reported flares (odds ratio of 3.63). ‒ by Monica Jaramillo
Disclosure: The researchers report no relevant financial disclosures.