DOI: 10.36347/sjams.2016.v04i02.020

Pages: 402-406

Rheumatoid arthritis is a systemic inflammatory disease characterized by swelling and pain of the joints. Although, persistent inflammation mediated bone or joint destruction restricts the patient’s physical function, it is conceivable that oxidative stress mediated electrolyte imbalance may have a crucial role in the development of hypertension risk in active rheumatoid arthritis (ARA). Aims & objective: The present study was designed to assess the association of oxidative stress and altered serum electrolyte levels in ARA patients and to determine their effect in predicting hypertension (HT) risk. Methods: Total antioxidant activity (TAA), lipid peroxidation (malondialdehyde; MDA) and serum mineral ( Na+, K+, Mg2+ and Ca2+) levels were estimated in 40 ARA patients by using standard methods and statistically compared it with that of 40 healthy normal individuals of same age group (30-50 years). Result: Plasma TAA, serum potassium, magnesium and calcium levels were significantly low in patient group (p<0.05) as compared to healthy controls whereas erythrocyte MDA levels were significantly high in ARA subjects. However, serum sodium levels were increased insignificantly (p<0.1) in ARA subjects. Conclusion: Our findings indicate that oxidative stress plays a significant role in shaping the ARA patient to develop hypertension, characterized by altered serum minerals levels and enhanced MDA levels. Therefore, regular monitoring of blood pressure and consumption of balance diet rich in antioxidants and minerals should be increased to reduce the risk of HT with ARA progression.