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Circadian rhythm of C-reactive protein in patients with rheumatoid arthritis | JoVE Visualize

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Circadian rhythm of C-reactive protein in patients with rheumatoid arthritis

M Herold, R Günther

Progress in Clinical and Biological Research|January 1, 1987

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Summary

Rheumatoid arthritis inflammation shows a daily rhythm, with disease activity lowest in the evening. This study observed circadian rhythms in C-reactive protein (CRP) and physical function in male patients.

Area of Science:

Chronobiology
Rheumatology
Immunology

Background:

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disease.
Circadian rhythms influence physiological processes, including immune function.
Understanding temporal patterns in RA may improve management.

Purpose of the Study:

To investigate circadian rhythms in disease activity markers and physical function in men with rheumatoid arthritis.
To determine if inflammation in RA follows a daily pattern.

Main Methods:

Studied ten men with classic rheumatoid arthritis over 23 days.
Monitored C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, grip strength, pearl stringing, and walking time.
Utilized cosinor analysis to detect circadian rhythms and acrophases.

Main Results:

One patient exhibited a marked increase in disease activity, with CRP levels rising significantly.
Significant circadian rhythms were observed in CRP, grip strength, pearl stringing, and walking time.
Acrophases for CRP, grip strength, and pearl stringing occurred in the evening, while walking time peaked in the early morning.

Conclusions:

Inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis appears to be a circadian rhythmic process.
Disease activity in RA may be lowest during the evening hours.
These findings suggest a potential role for chronotherapy in managing rheumatoid arthritis.

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Circadian Rhythm Of C-reactive Protein In Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis