Influence of prognostic features on the final outcome in rheumatoid arthritis: a review of the literature.

The literature on prognostic features on the final outcome in RA is reviewed. It is generally agreed that female sex and a positive RF are variables indicating a poor prognosis. Longstanding increased ESR and CRP values, decreased Hb, or the appearance of subcutaneous nodules are indicators of a less favorable clinical course. No conclusions can be drawn regarding other factors due to the incomplete and heterogeneous study designs.