Impact of Radiographic Damage on Physical Function in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Author Information
Author(s): van der Heijde D, Landewé R, van Vollenhoven R, Fatenejad S, Klareskog L
Primary Institution: Leiden University Medical Centre
Hypothesis
Is short-term radiographic progression associated with physical function in patients with rheumatoid arthritis?
Conclusion
Greater radiographic damage and recent radiographic progression correlate with a higher degree of disability in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.
Supporting Evidence
- Patients with negative progression scores had lower HAQ scores than those with positive progression scores.
- Radiographic progression was divided into four categories, showing a trend of higher HAQ scores with greater progression.
- The study found that both TSS and the change in TSS were significant determinants of the HAQ score.
Takeaway
If your joints get worse on X-rays, you might find it harder to move around and do things.
Methodology
The study used data from the TEMPO trial, measuring physical function with HAQ scores and radiographic damage with the Sharp score over two years.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the trial's controlled environment and treatment effects.
Limitations
The study was limited to a specific cohort and may not generalize to all rheumatoid arthritis patients.
Participant Demographics
Predominantly women (76.5%) with a mean disease duration of 6.35 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.001
Confidence Interval
95% CI of the regression coefficient: Lower bound -0.333, Upper bound -0.152
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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