High Quantitative CRP And Low Albumin as Marker of Disease Activity in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis
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Abstract
Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disorder characterized by synovial tissue inflammation, leading to joint damage, pain, and systemic effects.
Objective: To evaluate the utility of high quantitative C-reactive protein (CRP) and low serum albumin levels as markers of disease activity in RA patients.
Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of Rheumatology, Khyber Teaching Hospital, Peshawar, from September 1, 2023, to February 29, 2024. Male and female RA patients aged 18 to 70 years were enrolled. Disease activity was assessed using the Disease Activity Score 28 (DAS 28). Serum CRP and albumin levels were measured and compared with DAS28 scores.
Results: A total of 105 patients were included, with a majority being female (n=60, 57.1%). The mean age was 52.4 ± 9.8 years, with most participants aged between 40 and 50 years (n = 35, 33.3%). Elevated CRP levels were associated with increased disease activity, with an odds ratio of 1.82 (95% CI: 1.53 - 2.17, p < 0.001). Conversely, lower albumin levels were linked to higher disease activity, with an odds ratio of 3.47 (95% CI: 4.35 - 2.63, p < 0.001).
Conclusion: Serum CRP and albumin levels serve as valuable indicators for assessing disease activity in RA patients, highlighting their potential role in clinical management.
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