Are MRI-detected erosions specific for RA? A large explorative cross-sectional study

摘要

ObjectivesMagnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is recommended in the diagnostic process of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), to detect joint damage early. MRI-detected erosions are also present in symptom-free controls, especially at older age. It is unclear if RA-specific MRI-detected erosions can be distinguished from ‘physiological’ erosions in symptom-free individuals. This study compared MRI-detected erosions of RA-patients with healthy controls and with other arthritides.