When Does Arthralgia Progress to Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Conclusion: The antibodies accurately predict risk
Researchers posited that additional biomarkers are needed for optimal prediction of risk.
Positive predictive values of those additional biomarkers for the development of RA within 2 years were:
- 38% for ACPA-negative/RF-positive patients
- 50% for ACPA-positive/RF-negative participants
As pre-noted, those testing positive for ACPA conferred the highest risk for the development of Rheumatoid arthritis and had an additive value with a positive rheumatoid factor.
The study’s conclusion was the presence of these autoantibodies “accurately predicts a person's risk for progression from clinically suspect arthralgia (CSA) to rheumatoid arthritis (RA).”
