The Predictive Value of Ultrasound in Early Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis a chronic and progressive inflammatory disease characterized by synovial membrane inflammation, possibly leading to destruction of joints. To start early with a combination therapy results in a better outcome for patients. Using ultrasonography it is possible to detect clinically and radiographically absent synovitis and erosions. However, it is unclear whether or not these findings have predictive value in these patients regarding disease activity or radiographical progression.