Post-hoc analysis examines CV risk markers related to LAP-defined hepatic steatosis in RA patients, indicating implications for treatment.
Key Points
This analysis aims to explore the relationship between hepatic steatosis and cardiovascular risk factors in rheumatoid arthritis patients.
Utilized data from the FRANCIS randomized trial focusing on RA patients without CVD or type 2 diabetes.
Assessed hepatic steatosis using Lipid Accumulation Product and examined its association with carotid intima-media thickness.
Conducted linear regression analysis with adjustments for age, sex, BMI, and systolic blood pressure.
Patients with LAP-defined steatosis exhibited higher blood pressure, fasting glucose, and atherogenic lipid profiles (all p < 0.05).
No significant change in cIMT associated with LAP-defined steatosis after multivariable adjustment (B = -0.016, 95% CI -0.050-0.019).
Intensive treatment reduced cIMT progression in patients without LAP-defined steatosis (ΔcIMT 0.03 ± 0.07 vs. 0.06 ± 0.12 mm; p = 0.013), but no effect was observed in those with steatosis.