[Comorbidity in rheumatoid arthritis]

Patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) often have one or more comorbid conditions. The prevalence of comorbidities increases with age and disease duration. Comorbidities influence the outcome of RA and limit therapeutic options. Besides suppressing disease activity of RA, screening and tight control of existing comorbidities is essential to avoid further damage. A close cooperation between general practitioners, rheumatologists and attending specialists is important for a successful treatment, taking into account the complex interaction of RA and its comorbidities.