Etiology of Pseudarthrosis in Ankylosing Spondylitis: What Is the Main Cause?

OBJECTIVE

To explore the value of rheumatoid factor (RF), anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (CCP) antibody, C-reactive protein (CRP), and the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) in the diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

METHODS

Using rate nephelometry, chemiluminescence microparticle immunoassay (CMIA), and Westergren sedimentation rate testing, we detected RF, anti-CCP antibody, CRP, and ESR in 134 patients with RA and 50 healthy control individuals.

RESULTS

We observed significant differences in RF, anti-CCP antibody, CRP, and ESR concentrations between the RA and control groups (P <.01). The sensitivity, specificity and accuracy in the diagnosis of RA were 91.0%, 74.4%, and 87.0%, respectively, for RF; 88.0%, 90.4%, and 88.1%, respectively, for anti-CCP antibody; and 90.2%, 83.3%, and 89.5%, respectively, for the detection of RA via the combination of RF and anti-CCP antibody.

CONCLUSION

Anti-CCP is more specific than the other parameters we reviewed for the diagnosis of RA. Combined detection of the 4 parameters is beneficial when confirming a diagnosis of RA.