Serum lipid pattern and apolipoproteins (A1 and B100) in active rheumatoid arthritis.

Cardiovascular diseases and atherosclerotic manifestations have been reported to be the most common causes of death in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). In the present investigation the levels of serum lipids, apolipoproteins (A1 and B100), total proteins, and albumin were studied in 35 female patients affected by active RA. Apolipoproteins A1 and B100 were significantly lower in RA patients than in controls. No significant difference was observed in total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, or triglycerides. In contrast, HDL cholesterol and serum albumin were significantly lower in RA patients compared to controls. The finding of reduced apolipoproteins and HDL-cholesterol levels may represent an important factor in the etiology of cardiovascular and atherosclerotic disease in RA. Reduced levels of albumin in active RA may indicate a reduced rate of proteins like lipoproteins in the liver.