RISK FACTORS FOR OSTEOPOROSIS IN PATIENTS WITH RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS

This thesis investigates the risk factors contributing to the development of osteoporosis (OP) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Osteoporosis, a common complication in RA, significantly affects patients' quality of life, work capacity, and increases the risk of disability and mortality due to fractures. The study, conducted on 261 female patients aged 20 to 75, explores both traditional and RA-specific risk factors, including chronic inflammation, rheumatoid factor (RF) positivity, glucocorticoid (GC) therapy, and menopause. Using clinical, laboratory, and instrumental assessments, bone mineral density (BMD) was measured in the lumbar spine, femoral neck, and forearm. The study highlights that RA patients with longer disease duration, higher GC doses, and advanced age are at an elevated risk for OP. It emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis and the need for preventive measures, particularly in postmenopausal women, to manage and reduce the impact of OP. The findings provide valuable insights for improving the management of osteoporosis in RA patients and suggest targeted therapeutic strategies.