[Predictive factors of response to biotherapies in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: a cross-sectional observational study conducted in the Rheumatology Department of the Mohammed V Military Teaching Hospital, Rabat (Morocco)].

INTRODUCTION

therapeutic response to biologic agents in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) remains heterogeneous and is influenced by clinical, biological, and comorbid factors. This study aimed to identify the factors associated with a good clinical response to biologic therapy among RA patients followed in a North African context.

METHODS

a cross-sectional observational study was conducted at the Rheumatology Department of Mohammed V Military Teaching Hospital, Rabat, between January and December 2024. Sociodemographic, clinical, biological, and comorbidity data of patients treated with biologic agents were collected at the time of follow-up. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to identify independent factors associated with a good clinical response according to the European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) criteria.

RESULTS

a total of 153 patients were included, of whom 75.8% were women (mean age 57.5 ± 13.7 years). In multivariable analysis, anti-CCP antibody positivity (aOR = 3.15; 95% CI 1.62-6.14; P = 0.001) and initiation of biologic therapy within 1 year of diagnosis (aOR = 4.55; 95% CI 2.12-9.76; P < 0.001) were significantly associated with a better clinical response. Conversely, C-reactive protein > 15 mg/L (aOR = 0.29; 95% CI 0.14-0.63; P < 0.001) and diabetes (aOR = 0.33; 95% CI 0.15-0.74; P = 0.003) were associated with a poorer response.

CONCLUSION

anti-CCP antibody positivity and early initiation of biologic therapy were associated with a better clinical response, whereas elevated CRP levels and diabetes were linked to an unfavourable therapeutic outcome. These findings highlight the importance of early and individualised management of RA, particularly in resource-limited settings.