CLINICAL AND PATHOGENETIC ASSESSMENT OF THE IMPACT OF METABOLIC SYNDROME ON THE COURSE OF RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS

Abstract

 Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic systemic inflammatory disease frequently accompanied by metabolic disturbances that significantly influence disease progression and long-term outcomes. Metabolic syndrome, characterized by insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, abdominal obesity, and arterial hypertension, has been increasingly recognized as an important comorbidity in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. This study aims to assess the clinical and pathogenetic impact of metabolic syndrome on the course of rheumatoid arthritis. The analysis shows that metabolic syndrome is highly prevalent among patients with rheumatoid arthritis and is associated with increased inflammatory activity, more severe clinical manifestations, and a higher risk of cardiovascular and skeletal complications. Chronic systemic inflammation mediated by pro-inflammatory cytokines represents a key mechanism linking joint damage with metabolic abnormalities. Insulin resistance and adipokine imbalance further intensify inflammatory pathways, creating a bidirectional interaction that accelerates disease progression. These findings underline the importance of early identification and comprehensive management of metabolic syndrome in patients with rheumatoid arthritis to improve disease control and reduce comorbidity-related morbidity.