Role of High-Resolution Ultrasound in Detection and Assessment of Disease Activity in Rheumatoid Arthritis

Abstract

Abstract Background Ultrasound imaging is currently a well-known, now frequently used method in the diagnosis of Rheumatoid arthritis. In recent years, it has become an essential supplement of physical examination in Rheumatologist practice. B-mode US & PDUS are very sensitive in detecting synovial hypertrophy, joint effusion, activity, tenosynovitis and any early bony erosions. Aim of the Work to demonstrate the role of Ultrasonography and Power Doppler in proper detection of activity of rheumatoid arthritis in the wrist and small hands joints among different aged population, compared with the laboratory results. Patients and Methods A prospective study was conducted on 40 patients (35 females & 5 males). They were referred from the Rheumatology Department to Ultrasound Unit at Ain Shams University hospitals for US examination of hand and wrist joints mainly. Results In our study, most of the 40 patients enrolled showed one or more of the B-mode or PDUS findings for Rheumatoid Arthritis or its activity. On adding the findings of US & PD to the clinical examination and laboratory protocol of Rheumatoid Arthritis, sensitivity and specificity for diagnosis of disease and disease activity raises. Conclusion Ultrasound and Power Doppler have additional value to clinical examination both in improving early detection of RA and defining true RA remission. B-mode US & PDUS are very sensitive in detecting synovial hypertrophy, joint effusion, activity, tenosynovitis and any early bony erosions.