In a large observational study of patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc), researchers found that one third of patients had inflammatory arthritis (IA), which was associated with poor quality of life and physical function. The study included 1717 adults with SSc, and IA was defined as the presence of synovitis in one or more joints. Patients with IA were more likely to have diffuse disease, musculoskeletal manifestations, myositis, and sicca symptoms. They also reported significantly lower quality of life and greater physical disability. The researchers emphasized the importance of recognizing and monitoring IA in SSc patients. The study was published in Arthritis Care & Research, and was supported by various organizations and grants.
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Inflammatory Arthritis Has Big Impact on Systemic Sclerosis
