The impact of metabolic syndrome on rheumatoid arthritis in a cohort of Egyptian patients

Aim of the work

To assess the impact of metabolic syndrome (MetS) on the pattern and clinical presentation of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and its relation to disease activity and functional status of the patients.

Patients and Methods

Sixty RA patients were equally grouped into those with MetS (group A) and those without (group B). The disease activity score (DAS-28) was assessed and functional status was measured using health assessment questionnaire (HAQ).

Results

The 30 patients with MetS had a mean age of 46.3 ± 9.9 years (27–66 years), disease duration of 5 (3–10) years and the 30 without were of matched age and sex. Joint deformities were detected in 8 patients (26.7%) in group A and in 10 patients (33.3%) in group B. While bone erosions were in 6 (20%) in group A, and 7 (23.3%) in group B. As regards the functional capacity; it was found to be more impaired in patients with MetS shown by the significantly higher HAQ in group A than group B (p = 0.007). While no significant differences were detected regarding the DAS28 and visual analogue scale (VAS)(p = 0.26 and 0.13 respectively). In patients with MetS (group A), body weight and waist circumference were significantly increased in those with an increased frequency of joint deformities (p = 0.047 and p = 0.018 respectively). A significant correlation was found between fasting blood glucose and both joint deformities and erosions (p = 0.016 and p = 0.004 respectively).

Conclusion

MetS might have a negative impact on RA disease activity and functional status. Regular screening for MetS in RA patients is recommended.