Cardiovascular diseases in rheumatoid arthritis
Rovenský, J.; Vlcek, M.; Imrich, R.
Vnitrni Lekarstvi 56(7): 721-723
2010
ISSN/ISBN: 0042-773X PMID: 20842919 Document Number: 638306
Risk of cardiovascular diseases is significantly higher in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) than in normal population, leading to higher mortality of these patients. An accelerated atherosclerosis has been considered a basis for the increased cardiovascular risk in RA. Besides classical atherosclerosis risk factors, systemic inflammation plays a substantial role. Indirect mechanisms such as insulin resistance and dyslipidemia may play a role, however, inflammation probably causes direct damage to blood vessels. Thus, systemic inflammation has a primary role and other factors accelerate this process. An adequate anti-inflammatory therapy can have a positive effect also on cardiovascular diseases in RA.