Bone Density Loss in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients
Author Information
Author(s): Nakashima Akikatsu, Fujii Hiroshi, Kuroda Masahiro, Zoshima Takeshi, Mizushima Ichiro, Nomura Hideki, Kawano Mitsuhiro, Feist Eugen
Primary Institution: Kanazawa University Hospital
Hypothesis
This study investigates the frequency of unilateral metacarpal bone density reduction in RA patients and aims to identify associated factors.
Conclusion
Approximately 17% of RA patients exhibited unilateral relative metacarpal bone density reduction, closely associated with unilateral wrist joint damage.
Supporting Evidence
- Unilateral CTR reduction was observed in 16.8% of patients, significantly associated with unilateral wrist joint damage.
- Among patients with unilateral wrist joint damage, 50.0% showed CTRR lateral (+) compared to 10.1% without unilateral wrist joint damage.
- Post-biologic treatment, CTR values decreased in both hands, indicating no improvement in bone density reduction.
Takeaway
Some people with rheumatoid arthritis have weaker bones in one hand compared to the other, which can be linked to damage in their wrist joints.
Methodology
Bilateral hand X-rays were used to measure the cortical thickness rate of the 2nd to 4th metacarpals in 143 RA patients.
Potential Biases
Image evaluation was performed manually, which may have introduced observer bias.
Limitations
The study involved a relatively small sample size from two institutions and focused on outpatients with stable disease, which may limit generalizability.
Participant Demographics
143 RA patients (107 females, mean age 62.4 years, mean disease duration 11.1 years).
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.01
Statistical Significance
p<0.01
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website