Abstract
Objectives/aimsRheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease affecting the joints, including the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Early diagnosis and treatment can alleviate symptoms and prevent progression. Predictors for disease outcome in individuals at risk for RA are therefore valuable. While limited information is available on the prevalence of TMJ involvement in early RA, previous studies suggest that RA, periodontitis and the oral microbiome are interrelated. Predictive factors for RA development may thus be present in the oral cavity. Our two aims are: (1) to assess the prevalence of TMJ involvement in early RA, and (2) to investigate the predictive value of oral factors in RA development.Materials and methodsWe will include 150 individuals in this multi-center, prospective cohort study: 50 patients with early RA, 50 at-risk individuals, and 50 healthy controls. At baseline, the TMJ, periodontal health, and the oral microbiome will be examined. The general health will be followed over time, on four occasions up to 3 years.DiscussionOur results will provide insight into the prevalence and clinical characterization of TMJ involvement in early RA. For at-risk individuals, oral factors can be studied as possible predictors for the development of RA.
Highlights
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease affecting the synovial joints that eventually results in the destruction of cartilage and bone.[1]
Because no cure is available for RA, pharmacological treatment focuses on arresting disease progression and alleviating symptoms.[2]
Most RA patients are affected by the so-called seropositive form of RA, defined by the presence of specific antibodies: IgM rheumatoid factor (IgM-RF) and antibodies against citrullinated proteins (ACPA).[5]
Summary
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease affecting the synovial joints that eventually results in the destruction of cartilage and bone.[1]. For patients with early RA, only limited data is available on TMD prevalence; based only on pain on palpation, a prevalence of 10.6% has been reported.[15] To our knowledge, no data on TMD is available for individuals with an increased risk of developing RA. Research on these specific patient groups is needed. Of particular interest are individuals at increased risk of developing RA, and the possible biomarkers in the oral microbiome for RA development
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