Biochemical Characteristics of Rheumatoid Arthritis among Iraqis: A Gender-Matched Comparative Study

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to assess the biochemical characteristics of rheumatoid arthritis among male and female Iraqis.

Methods: A total of 53 individuals aged 25–69 years were enrolled from Alrefia General Hospital in Thi-Qar. Among these, 33 patients diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis (12 males and 21 females) and 20 age- and gender-matched healthy controls (14 males and 6 females) underwent evaluation. Serum uric acid and alkaline phosphatase levels were measured, and rheumatoid factor tests were conducted

Results: The results showed that out of the female participants, 21 were positive and 6 were negative cases. For the male participants, 26 were positive cases, and 14 were negative. There was a 2:1 ratio of females to males with rheumatoid arthritis.

Conclusion: Rheumatoid arthritis patients have greater levels of uric acid and alkaline phosphate in their blood, and the condition is more common in females than in males. It is important to note that patients’ rheumatoid factors vary.