Related Experiment Videos
Vertebral deformities in rheumatoid arthritis: a comparison with population-based controls
Ragnhild E Ørstavik1, Glenn Haugeberg, Petter Mowinckel
1Oslo City Department of Rheumatology, Oslo, Norway. ragnhild.orstavik@ioks.uio.no
Archives of Internal Medicine
|February 26, 2004
Summary
Women with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) have significantly more vertebral deformities than controls. These fractures are linked to RA, low bone mineral density (BMD), and corticosteroid use, highlighting the need for osteoporosis prevention in RA patients.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Orthopedics
- Osteoporosis Research
Background:
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is associated with an increased risk of osteoporosis.
- The prevalence and extent of osteoporotic fractures in RA patients require further clarification.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the prevalence of vertebral deformities in a population-based cohort of female RA patients versus matched controls.
- To investigate the relationship between vertebral deformities, RA, bone mineral density (BMD), and corticosteroid use.
Main Methods:
- Recruited female RA patients (mean age 63.0 years) and age/sex/area-matched controls.
- Obtained thoracolumbar radiographs and measured hip/spine BMD (L2-L4).
Main Results:
- RA patients had substantially more vertebral deformities (147 vs 51).
- Significantly higher odds of multiple (11.2% vs 4.8%) and moderate/severe (17.3% vs 10.0%) deformities in RA patients.
- Vertebral deformities were independently associated with RA, BMD, and long-term corticosteroid use.
Conclusions:
- Vertebral deformities are markedly increased in RA patients, particularly severe and multiple ones.
- RA diagnosis is an independent risk factor for vertebral deformities, irrespective of BMD and corticosteroid use.
- Findings emphasize the importance of osteoporosis prevention strategies in rheumatoid arthritis management.