Rheumatoid Arthritis Flares May Be Predictable

A recent study indicates that predicting and possibly proactively treating rheumatoid arthritis flares might be possible thanks to a type of cell that seems to accumulate in the bloodstream prior to a flare. The research reports that these PRIME cells, or “pre-inflammation mesenchymal” cells, are a type of stem cell that can eventually turn into cartilage or bone. The cells may also play a role in the activity of a flare.

While more research is needed, board certified rheumatologist Dr. Robert Koval is hopeful that future studies will help determine if PRIME cells can help identify a potential flare and allow physicians to prevent RA flare ups.

Dr. Koval told Healthline, “Rheumatologists sometimes struggle to know when a patient is flaring or about to flare. Having an accurate marker for an impending flare would potentially allow us to make data driven decisions about patient treatments, as we treat to a target goal of true remission. We are always trying to get ahead of this disease to prevent permanent damage, and this may be another tool to do so.”

You can read the entire Healthline article here.

Learn more about our rheumatology services or book an appointment with Dr. Koval online.

Keep up with Texas Orthopedics news by following us on Facebook and Instagram.