Evaluating the Prognostic Potential of MCP-1 in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis

Background: Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a pervasive, chronic inflammatory condition. Swift diagnosis and intervention are crucial to manage the disease effectively, increasing remission prospects, and preventing long-term clinical complications. Objectives: The study aims to investigate and evaluate the potential role of certain inflammatory biomarkers - specifically Monocyte Chemoattractant Protein-1 (MCP-1) as an indicator of Rheumatoid Arthritis. Methods: An experimental study was conducted from April to June 2023, encompassing 80 individuals, 40 with chronic Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) and 40 healthy controls. RA patients, from Azadi Teaching Hospital in Kirkuk Governorate, were selected based on a positive RF analysis. Demographic data were collected, and serum samples were obtained for biomarker analysis. MCP-1 levels were determined using ELISA. Statistical evaluations employed descriptive statistics, T-tests, and Pearson correlation via SPSS version 26. Results: In the study, 77.5% of (RA) patients in the 40-60 years bracket compared to 67.5% of healthy individuals. (RA) patients exhibited a striking increase in MCP-1, registering at 393.33 pg/ml versus the healthy individuals at 70.66 pg/ml, a moderate positive correlation was observed between BMI and MCP-1 levels (Pearson r = 0.446, p = 0.004). Conclusion: One of the pivotal revelations from the study was the significant correlation between BMI and MCP-1 levels in (RA) patients, contrasting with the healthy population. The pronounced elevation of MCP-1 levels in (RA) patients, when juxtaposed against healthy individuals, substantiate its role as a crucial inflammatory marker for (RA). Its potential utility as a diagnostic or prognostic tool is evident, especially given the marked statistical significance of the observed differences.