P480 Prevalence of Peripheral Joint Manifestations among Ulcerative Colitis Patients in the Middle East: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract

Abstract Background Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), specifically ulcerative colitis (UC), is a chronic gastrointestinal disorder often accompanied by various extraintestinal manifestations. Peripheral joint manifestations represent a common extraintestinal complication, contributing to patient morbidity. This study aimed to systematically analyse the prevalence of peripheral joint manifestations among UC patients in the Middle East, providing insights into regional variations and potential clinical implications. Methods A comprehensive search was conducted in electronic databases to identify relevant studies. Inclusion criteria were studies reporting the prevalence of peripheral joint manifestations in UC patients in Middle Eastern countries. Twelve studies were selected for quantitative synthesis, involving a total of 2086 UC patients. Random-effects meta-analysis was performed, and the prevalence of peripheral joint manifestations was calculated with a 95% confidence interval (CI). Results The overall prevalence of peripheral joint manifestations in Middle Eastern UC patients was 18.0% (95% CI: 12.0% to 24.0%). The individual study prevalence rates ranged from 3.2% to 52.3%. A symmetrical funnel plot indicated the absence of significant publication bias. Heterogeneity among the studies was substantial (I² = 95%). Regional variations among the individual studies findings were observed, with Saudi Arabian studies reporting relatively higher prevalence rates compared to studies from Kuwait and Turkey. Gender disparities were noted, but they were not consistent across all studies. No substantial publication bias was identified in the analysis. Conclusion This meta analysis reveals that peripheral joint manifestations are a common extraintestinal complication in Middle Eastern UC patients. Recognizing the regional differences and gender disparities is essential for healthcare providers in the region. Further research is needed to explore the underlying factors and to improve patient care. These findings contribute to a better understanding of the clinical burden of UC in the Middle East.