[The sex- and age-related characteristics of the x-ray changes in rheumatoid arthritis]

To investigate sex- and age-specific features of radiographic abnormalities in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients, radiographic signs in hands and feet were assessed using Steinbroker criteria. A score system from 0 to 3 was also introduced to evaluate every radiographic feature: osteoporosis, cysts, joint space narrowing and erosions. Radiographic indices of every joint group, whole hand and metatarsophalangeal joints were calculated. Using the regression analysis, the implication of 3 factors (age at the disease onset, disease duration and sex) in joint involvement was estimated in 56 males and 50 females with RA. Age subgroups entered patients who at the disease onset were under 50 (38 males and 27 females), over 50 (18 males and 23 females). Neither sex nor age at the disease onset affected Steinbroker stage in hands, whereas the influence of the male sex on radiographic stage in feet was essential. Radiographic indices for joints of the hand were different in sex and age subgroups. A multiple regression analysis revealed a significant effect of age at the disease onset on the involvement of metacarpophalangeal and wrist joints and hand on the whole. Wrist involvement was related to the female sex. Radiographic feet indices were more significant in young males.