Nephroblastoma-Overexpressed Protein as a Prognostic Marker for High Disease Activity in Iraqi Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis

Abstract

Background: Many data indicate a strong relationship between CCN3 and the intensity and length of RA symptoms. Furthermore, RA patients' bone deterioration, joint degeneration, and impaired functional status strongly correlate with serum CCN3 levels. Objective: To evaluate the levels of CCN3 protein, IL6, and anti-MCV biomarkers with the activity of RA disease and determine if there is any relationship between CCN3, anti-MCV, and IL6 in RA patients. Methods: In this prospective case-control study, 60 patients with RA were selected and subdivided according to disease activity, and 60 healthy individuals were served as controls. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent test (ELISA) was used to evaluate blood levels of CCN3, RF, anti-CCP, anti-MCV, and IL-6. Results: A significant correlation was reported for CCN3 with high and moderate disease activity and ulnar deformity but not with IL6, anti-MCV, anti-CCP, sex, or duration of disease. There is a strong positive correlation between anti-MCV and disease duration, as well as anti-MCV and RF. Conclusions: CCN3 has a significant association with disease activity and joint deformity with high sensitivity and specificity compared to other parameters, making it a good prognostic biomarker for RA.