Risk of overall death (n = 55) among 177 patients with RA. Multivariate Cox proportional-hazards regression analysis based on forward stepwise selection and adjusted for sex and age at inclusion. Predictor variables included in the analysis were duration of disease (decade), HAQ score, extraarticular manifestations, positive IgM RF, CRP > 100 mg/dl, state of nutrition below normal, treatment with MTX and anti-TNF-α drugs, MBL2 genotype A/A, and serum MBL. Patients with incomplete information on risk factors (n = 52) were not included in the analysis.
| Variables | HR (95% CI) | p |
|---|---|---|
| Extraarticular manifestations | 2.1 (1.1–4.0) | 0.034 |
| IgM RF-positive | 2.9 (1.3–6.4) | 0.008 |
| CRP > 100 mg/dl | 2.5 (1.4–4.5) | 0.003 |
| Nutrition below normal | 2.3 (1.2–4.2) | 0.008 |
| Serum MBL | 1.3 (1.1–1.6) | 0.022 |
HR: hazard ratio; RF: rheumatoid factor; CRP: C-reactive protein; MBL: mannose-binding lectin; HAQ: Health Assessment Questionnaire; MTX: methotrexate; TNF: tumor necrosis factor.