Viral antibodies in patients with rheumatoid arthritis

Abstract

Among the various aetiological theories of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) the infective aetiology is discussed. The aim of this study is to present the findings concerning the sera antiviral activity against six viruses in patients suffering from RA. Sera specimens from 34 patients and 30 healthy controls were examined for specific antibodies against measles, cytomegalovirus, herpes simplex, varicella and adenovirus by standardized microcomplement fixation test and against rubella by standardized microhemagglutination inhibition test. Statistically significant differences in geometric mean antibody titers were observed between sera from patients with RA and healthy controls to rubella (p<0.05), measles (p<0.025) and cytomegalovirus (p<0.05) antigens. Differences in antibody titers to herpes simplex, varicella and adenovirus antigens were not significant.