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