Progression pattern of rheumatoid arthritis: a study of 500 Pakistani patients

To estimate the most prevalent age of patients and disease status and progression in terms of severity at different age groups in the Pakistani Rheumatoid Arthritis [RA] patients. A total of five hundred [500] RA patients were enrolled during October, 2009 to October, 2013. A screening questionnaire was filled for each patient satisfying America College of Rheumatology [ACR] criteria under the supervision of certified rheumatologists. Epidemiological and demographic variables were statistically analyzed for correlation with progression of the disease using SPSS ver 17.0.1 software. In general, rheumatoid arthritis preferentially affects women with female to male ratio of about 3:1; however, patients with above 60 years of age have equal female to male ratio. The most prevalent age is 45-60 years. The disease severity increases with increase in the age and reaches to its peak in above 60 years of age [p=0.001]. The pattern of progression of RA in the Pakistani patients is almost consistent with other relevant studies conducted on European and European derived populations

Rheumatoid arthritis: what have we learned about the causing factors?

Rheumatoid Arthritis [RA] is a common inflammatory autoimmune disease characterized by the synovitis of both small and large joints, which may lead to the destruction of cartilage and bones causing significant disabilities due to erosion of bones surfaces, if left untreated. It is a multifactorial and heterogeneous disease having contribution of both genetic [50-60%] and environmental factors. The unawareness of general public might be a contributing factor in the high prevalence rate of RA world-wide. This review article focuses on the causing factors [genetics and environmental] involved in this devastating disease. We also gave brief overview of the treatment options and animal models of RA. The literature was reviewed using mesh terms in PubMed search "etiology of RA, genetics of RA, environmental factors in RA, Genome Wide Association Studies [GWAS] in RA". The data was thoroughly reviewed and comprehensive information was extracted to help the readers in improving understanding towards the mechanisms, which trigger the outcomes of RA. The more we increase awareness about RA, the better we manage this disease and hence can improve life style and socio-economic status