Rheumatoid arthritis in Lesotho

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology
• Epidemiology
• Clinical Medicine

Background:

• Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) diagnosis and severity can vary across different populations.
• Understanding the epidemiological profile of RA in Black African populations is crucial for targeted healthcare.
• Previous data on RA in this demographic is limited, necessitating further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the incidence and clinical characteristics of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in Black African patients.
• To document the prevalence of severe and advanced RA in a young demographic within this population.
• To identify radiological and serological markers associated with RA in the studied cohort.

Main Methods:

• A prospective study identified 39 Black African patients with probable, definite, or classical RA over a 12-month period.
• Diagnosis was confirmed using the American Rheumatism Association criteria for RA or Rome criteria for inactive RA.
• Radiological and serological assessments, including rheumatoid factor (RF) testing, were performed.

Main Results:

• Out of 15,834 new patients, 39 Black African patients were diagnosed with RA.
• A significant proportion (80%) of affected patients originated from rural areas.
• Radiological lesions were present in 74% and serological abnormalities in 92% of patients; RF was positive in 19% of tuberculosis patients and 12% of controls.

Conclusions:

• Black African patients exhibit a notable incidence of severe and advanced rheumatoid arthritis, often at a young age.
• The findings underscore the importance of early diagnosis and intervention for RA in this population.
• Rural origin and specific serological/radiological findings are significant characteristics of RA in Black African patients.