Autoimmune thyroid disorders and rheumatoid arthritis: A bidirectional interplay

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Endocrinology
• Rheumatology

Background:

• Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and autoimmune thyroid disease (AITD) are frequently observed together, particularly within autoimmune polyglandular syndrome type 2.
• The co-occurrence and prevalence of AITD in RA patients, and RA in AITD patients, are well-established.
• Geographical variations in AITD and associated autoantibodies in RA patients may stem from ethnic and environmental disparities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between AITD, thyroid autoantibodies, and RA.
• To explore common pathogenic mechanisms linking these autoimmune conditions.
• To examine the correlation of thyroid disorders with RA disease activity and treatment outcomes.

Main Methods:

• This review synthesizes existing literature on the association between AITD and RA.
• It analyzes studies focusing on shared genetic susceptibility and environmental triggers.
• The review examines data on thyroid autoantibodies in RA patients and vice versa.

Main Results:

• Both RA and AITD involve a synergistic interplay of genetic predisposition and environmental factors.
• The impact of thyroid dysfunction on RA outcomes, and RA on thyroid health, remains a subject of ongoing research and debate.
• Geographical and ethnic variations influence the prevalence of AITD and related autoantibodies in RA cohorts.

Conclusions:

• Understanding the intricate association between RA and AITD is crucial for comprehensive patient management.
• Further research is needed to clarify the controversial impacts of these conditions on each other's disease activity and treatment efficacy.
• Investigating shared pathways may reveal novel therapeutic targets for both RA and AITD.