Corneal Changes linked to severity of disease activity in rheumatoid arthritis patients
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that affects multiple systems in the body and has articular and extra-articular manifestations. Although neuropathy, or nerve damage, has been observed as a complication of RA, it is not well understood and has limited research attention.
A study found that patients with Rheumatoid arthritis had reduced corneal sensitivity, a loss of corneal nerve fibers, and an increase in Langerhans cells, which were all linked to the severity of their disease activity, Says Dr Gulfidan Bitirgen and colleagues in their recent study published in Eye.
This cross-sectional study included 50 RA patients and 35 healthy controls. It was conducted at a university hospital. It assessed disease activity with a 28-Joint Disease Activity Score and erythrocyte sedimentation rate or DAS28-ESR and central corneal sensitivity with a Cochet-Bonnet contact corneal esthesiometer. Corneal nerve fibre density, branch density, length, and Langerhans cell density were measured using a confocal microscope.
Disclaimer: This website is primarily for healthcare professionals. The content here does not replace medical advice and should not be used as medical, diagnostic, endorsement, treatment, or prescription advice. Medical science evolves rapidly, and we strive to keep our information current. If you find any discrepancies, please contact us at corrections@medicaldialogues.in. Read our Correction Policy here. Nothing here should be used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do not endorse any healthcare advice that contradicts a physician's guidance. Use of this site is subject to our Terms of Use, Privacy Policy, and Advertisement Policy. For more details, read our Full Disclaimer here.
NOTE: Join us in combating medical misinformation. If you encounter a questionable health, medical, or medical education claim, email us at factcheck@medicaldialogues.in for evaluation.