Physiological, Immunological, and Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate Alterations in Male Patients with Rheumatoid...

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune condition characterized by symmetrical and chronic pain and inflammation, initially affecting the small joints of the hands and feet, and later the larger joints. RA also attacks other organs of the body, particularly the skin, eyes, heart, kidneys, and lungs.

The purpose of this research is to assess and characterize the hematological and immunological parameters that indicate the presence of inflammation and autoimmune conditions in persons with RA.

90 male participants were recruited from several healthcare facilities, including Fallujah Teaching Hospital and Diagnostic Laboratories. The participants, RA patients (60) and healthy controls (30) were distributed into 2 groups for the comparative analysis of the hematological and immunological parameters.

Significant elevations (P < 0.0001) in erythrocyte sedimentation rate and immunoglobulins G and M were observed in RA patients across three age groups: young adults (25-40 years), middle-aged (41-65 years), and increased adults (66-90 years). Anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide, anti-mutated citrullinated vimentin, rheumatoid factor, and C-reactive protein showed significant increases (P < 0.0001) across all age categories.

The results reveal systemic inflammation and autoimmune dysregulation that are independent of patient age. Using immunological and hematological biomarkers in routine practice can improve diagnostic accuracy, guide personalized treatment, and help prevent joint damage while enhancing patients' quality of life.