To compare serum levels of RAS components in women with RA versus healthy females and to investigate the association between these molecules and subclinical atherosclerosis.
A cross-sectional study involving female RA patients without ischemic CVD. Disease activity was assessed using the DAS28 and the CDAI. IMT of the common carotid artery was evaluated by ultrasonography. Serum levels of Ang II, Ang-(1-7), ACE and ACE2 were determined by enzyme immunoassay.
Fifty women with RA, mean 48.2 (7.3) years, were compared to 30 healthy women, paired by age. RA patients had higher plasma levels of Ang II (
Patients with RA had an activation of the RAS, suggesting an association with disease activity and cardiovascular risk. Rheumatological key messages Imbalance of both RAS axes may be associated with cardiovascular risk and disease activity in rheumatoid arthritis. Ultrasonography of the carotid arteries can identify early, subclinical atherosclerotic disease in rheumatoid arthritis patients. Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibition or angiotensin 1 receptor blockade may be beneficial for rheumatoid arthritis patients.