clinical and laboratory profile of rheumatoid arthritis patients at a highlights from a study at a centre in delhi

Background:   rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that impacts a significant portion of the population. it results in joint damage, pain, and functional impairment, alongside chronic synovitis. this study aimed to elucidate the clinical and laboratory profile of rheumatoid arthritis patients at a tertiary care institute in delhi.methods:   this study involved a retrospective analysis of rheumatoid factor measurements performed on 17,130 serum samples at the serology and immunology laboratory from june 2021 to july 2024. the spectrum rf test kit (spectrum medical industries, delhi, india) and the spectrum automatic analyzer were employed.results:   immunoturbidimetry is an uncomplicated and highly sensitive method for the determination of rheumatoid factor. the quantification of rheumatoid factor via immunoturbidimetry is evidently appropriate for routine diagnostic laboratories. of 17,130 samples, 1,727 tested positive for rheumatoid factor, exhibiting a slight female predominance. a statistically significant relationship (p value < 0.05) with rheumatoid arthritis was identified in all age groups except for 0-10 years. the highest number of positive cases in our study originated from the department of orthopedics, followed by medicine, pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, and surgery.conclusion:   rheumatoid arthritis (ra) is a major burden in north india, particularly in delhi, with gaps in understanding genetic-environmental interactions (e.g., pollution, diet) and the role of rheumatoid factor in asymptomatic/elderly people. multidisciplinary research is required to create precise diagnostics, risk models, and targeted therapies for this unique situation. longitudinal studies and region-specific guidelines are critical for improving outcomes and mitigating ra's socioeconomic impact in this population.