[C-reactive protein and defect in lipid transport blood system in patients with rheumatoid arthritis]

In 88 patients with rheumatoid arthritis lipid-protein spectrum of the blood serum were determined biochemically and by means of nefelometric technique, C-reactive protein (CRP) was measured with enzyme immunoassay. An increase in CRP concentration was associated with lowering of apoA1 and HDL FL, triglycerides. Thus, elevation of CRP in RA reflects not only activity of inflammation but also defects in serum lipid-transport system by the atherogenic type.