Frequency of Metabolic Syndrome in Individuals Diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis and Its Relationship with Inflammatory Parameters

Authors : Nilay Şahin, Hilal Zeyneb Alkan, Sudenaz Köylü, Furkan Uysal, Aslı Sena Altun, Yasin Tuncay Toğrul, Ebubekir Sıddık Karakaş, Fatımatüzzehra Laçin

Pages : 30-36

Doi:10.33713/egetbd.1653286

View : 23 | Download : 35

Publication Date : 2025-04-24

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and metabolic syndrome (MetS), to evaluate the prevalence of MetS in patients with RA and its association with biomarkers [C-reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), lipid profile, vitamin D], and to explore the effects of antirheumatic therapies on metabolic parameters. It is known that MetS increases cardiovascular risk in RA patients; thus, clarifying this relationship is critically important for patient management. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study was designed as a cross-sectional cohort analysis, including 270 RA patients followed in a single center. Demographic, clinical, and laboratory data of patients were collected retrospectively. MetS diagnosis was established according to the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III (NCEP ATP III) criteria. Disease activity markers for RA (CRP, ESR), lipid profiles, vitamin D levels, and treatment details were recorded. Student’s t-test, Mann-Whitney U test, and chi-square test were used for statistical comparisons between groups. RESULTS: The prevalence of MetS among RA patients was found to be 31.7%. Patients with MetS had significantly higher metabolic risk factors, such as body mass index (32.7 kg/m²), hypertension (95%), and hypertriglyceridemia (86%). No significant differences were observed in CRP and ESR levels between patients with and without MetS. Although vitamin D deficiency was common, it was not significantly associated with MetS. Furthermore, no significant relationship was identified between RA treatments (methotrexate, biological agents) and MetS. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of MetS in patients with RA is higher compared to the general population, leading to increased cardiovascular risk. In RA patients whose disease activity is well-controlled, the inflammation-metabolic risk relationship may diminish. A “treat-to-target” approach in RA management should encompass both joint-related and cardiometabolic outcomes. Early diagnosis and management of MetS can improve quality of life and prognosis in RA patients.
Keywords : Romatoid artrit, metabolik sendrom, kardiyovasküler risk, enflamasyon, antiromatizmal tedavi, D vitamini