Link Between Disease Activity and NT-proBNP in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Author Information
Author(s): Provan Sella A, Angel Kristin, Ødegård Sigrid, Mowinckel Petter, Atar Dan, Kvien Tore K
Primary Institution: Diakonhjemmet Hospital
Hypothesis
What is the relationship between markers of inflammation, RA disease activity, medication used, and NT-proBNP levels?
Conclusion
CRP levels are linearly associated with levels of NT-proBNP in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.
Supporting Evidence
- CRP levels at baseline were significantly associated with NT-proBNP levels.
- At the 10-year follow-up, CRP and disease duration were significantly associated with NT-proBNP levels.
- NT-proBNP levels increased between each follow-up visit.
Takeaway
This study found that higher levels of a protein called CRP in the blood are linked to higher levels of another protein, NT-proBNP, which can indicate heart problems in people with rheumatoid arthritis.
Methodology
238 patients with RA were followed for 10 years with assessments of clinical and radiographic data, and NT-proBNP levels were measured from serum samples.
Potential Biases
Self-reported CVD data may not have been verified through medical records.
Limitations
The study had a small sample size and lacked comprehensive data on cardiovascular comorbidities at baseline.
Participant Demographics
Mean age was 51.6 years, with 73.5% female participants.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Confidence Interval
95% CI 1.15 to 2.37
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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