EULAR 2025 classification criteria for haemochromatosis arthropathy

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology
• Genetics
• Clinical Diagnostics

Background:

• Haemochromatosis arthropathy (HA) diagnosis can be challenging.
• Standardized criteria are needed for consistent patient inclusion in research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate the first classification criteria for haemochromatosis arthropathy (HA).

Main Methods:

• A European task force used systematic literature reviews, consensus, and Delphi processes.
• A derivation cohort of 154 HA patients and 120 controls was analyzed.
• Multivariable logistic regression and ROC analysis were employed to create the criteria model.

Main Results:

• A point-based model with 8 variables was developed, assessing symptom onset, joint features, and surgery history.
• A score of ≥5 out of 11 achieved 93.3% specificity and 71.4% sensitivity for HA classification.
• The criteria demonstrated strong diagnostic performance in the derivation cohort.

Conclusions:

• The first international classification criteria for haemochromatosis arthropathy (HA) have been established.
• These criteria are intended for use in research studies and require external validation.
• The developed criteria offer a rigorous methodology for identifying HA patients.