Chronic inflammatory autoimmune disorders and atherosclerosis.

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Cardiology
• Periodontology

Background:

• Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), periodontal disease (PD), and coronary artery disease (CAD) are prevalent chronic inflammatory conditions.
• RA is linked to increased cardiovascular risk, contributing to early mortality and morbidity.
• RA and PD share common underlying inflammatory pathways.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between RA, PD, and CAD.
• To explore the role of systemic inflammatory factors in these interconnected diseases.

Main Methods:

• 100 active RA patients (50 with CAD, 50 without) were assessed for PD.
• Comprehensive clinical, cardiac, dental, laboratory, and radiological evaluations were performed.
• Blood markers including hs-CRP, WBC, ESR, fibrinogen, TNF-alpha, TC, and HDL were measured.

Main Results:

• A significant association was found between RA, PD, and CAD.
• RA patients with CAD exhibited more severe PD than those without CAD (P < 0.001).
• Elevated inflammatory markers (hs-CRP, ESR, WBC, fibrinogen, TNF-alpha) were higher in RA patients with both PD and CAD.
• HDL levels were lower in RA patients with CAD compared to those without (P < 0.005).

Conclusions:

• This study demonstrates a clear association between RA, PD, and CAD.
• Systemic inflammation appears to be a key mediator linking these chronic inflammatory diseases and atherosclerosis.
• Targeting inflammation may be crucial in managing patients with co-existing RA, PD, and CAD.