Adrenocortical function relation to inflammatory markers in early untreated rheumatoid arthritis

To study adrenocortical function alterations in patients with early rheumatoid arthritis [RA]. 25 untreated patients with new onset RA were studied and compared with 25 age and sex-matched healthy subjects [controls]. All subjects were studied for plasma ACTH, cortisol, dehyroepiandrosterone sulfate [DHEAS], free and total testosterone, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, C-reactive protein and rheumatoid factor. No significant differences in the basal levels of ACTH, Cortisol, DHEAS, and total testosterone when comparing RA patients with controls were found, while there were statistically significant elevations in the inflammatory indices [ESR and CRP] and lower basal morning levels of free testosterone [Lower in males age >/= 45 years] in RA patients when compared with controls. From this study we concluded that adrenocortical function seem to be unaltered in early untreated RA patients

Relationship of disease severity to some biochemical markers of generalized osteoarthritis

To find out whether serum level of MMP-3, plasma level of TIMP-1 and urinary pyridinoline are specifically increased in generalized osteoarthritis [OA] or not. Also whether there is a relationship between those markers and the disease severity as detected clinically and radiologically. Thirty females suffering of generalized OA and 15 apparently healthy matched females as controls were studied. Serum MMP-3, plasma TIMP-1 and urinary pyridinoline were measured. The knee and hand joints were graded clinically [Steinbrocker] and radiologically [Kellgren and Lawrence]. Serum level of MMP-3, plasma level of TIM-1 and urinary pyridinoline were significantly higher in generalized OA patients than normal controls. The joint space width decreased with increasing Kellgren - Lawrence grade. All biochemical markers had negative correlations with the joint space width, but only urinary pyridinoline had a significant correlation. All biochemical markers had positive correlations with Steinbrocker grading. Some biochemical markers of OA may be of diagnostic value and a predictor for the severity of the disease in progressive generalized OA. The inhibition of their production and activity may decrease or delay the joint damage