Assessing Associations of Synovial Perfusion, Cartilage Quality, and Outcome in Rheumatoid Arthritis Using Dynamic Contrast-enhanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging

J Rheumatol. 2020 Jan;47(1):15-19. doi: 10.3899/jrheum.180832. Epub 2019 Mar 15.

Abstract

Objective: To assess associations of synovial perfusion, cartilage quality, and outcome in rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods: Synovial perfusion and cartilage quality were assessed by dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging in metacarpophalangeal joints of 28 treatment-naive patients with RA at baseline and at 3 and 6 months after methotrexate. Analysis was by linear mixed modeling.

Results: Synovial perfusion variables were associated with remission (p < 0.05) and cartilage quality (p < 0.004). Maximum synovial enhancement was associated to European League Against Rheumatism response (p < 0.05). Synovial perfusion improved in nonresponders over time (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Synovial perfusion relates to remission, response, and cartilage quality in a cohort of therapy-naive patients with early RA.

Keywords: CARTILAGE; PREDICTION; REMISSION; RESPONSE; RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Arthritis, Rheumatoid / diagnostic imaging*
  • Cartilage / diagnostic imaging*
  • Cartilage / pathology
  • Cohort Studies
  • Contrast Media*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging / methods*
  • Male
  • Metacarpophalangeal Joint / diagnostic imaging*
  • Metacarpophalangeal Joint / pathology
  • Middle Aged
  • Patient Outcome Assessment*
  • Remission Induction
  • Synovial Membrane / blood supply*
  • Synovial Membrane / diagnostic imaging*
  • Synovial Membrane / pathology
  • Synovitis / diagnostic imaging*

Substances

  • Contrast Media