In the question about early diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis

Abstract

Objective. To define the most important manifestations of early RA. Methods. 92 pts aged 17 to 45 years (mean 34,9 ±8,52 years) with RA of 2-3 activity degree diagnosed during the first months of the disease (mean 3,5 months), were investigated and followed up for one year. Inclusion criteria was the absence of serious concomitant disease of internal organs. Results. During the follow up diagnosis of RA was confirmed in 90 patients (97,8%). SLE was diagnosed in 2 ptss. During the first months of the disease the most considerable manifestations were: morning stiffness, elevation of CRP (3+ and more) - 59 pts (65,5%) and ESR (more than 40 mm/h) - 21 ptss (23,3%), RF more than 1/160 - 46 pts (51,1%). Generalization of joint syndrome (more than 3 joints involved) had all pts at the sixth month of the disease. The onset of the disease with monoarthritis was revealed in 9 of pts (10%), oligoarthritis in 15 (16,7%), polyarthritis in 66 (73,3%). Conclusion. The most important manifestations of early RA are morning stiffness, RF (+), increase of CRP, symmetrical polyarthritis of hands and feet.

Keywords

• early rheumatoid arthritis
• diagnostic criteria