Clinical manifestations and risk factors of arthropathy in cystic fibrosis.

BACKGROUND: Recurrent joint pain is frequently observed in patients with CF and can lead to reduced activity and quality of life. We conducted this observational study to assess the clinical manifestations, frequency, and risk factors of CF associated arthropathy.

METHODS: Clinical data were collected using a digital quality management system, medical records, and by conducting structured interviews. Univariate and multivariate statistical analysis were performed for statistical interpretation.

STUDY DESIGN: retrospective observational study including 186 patients.

RESULTS: Of 186 patients (Demographics: Mean age 27 years, female gender 104/186 (57%), CFTR F508del homozygous 82/186 (44%) included in the study, 54/186 (29%) had experienced joint symptoms. Joint pain and swelling were the most frequent symptoms. The joints of the hands (JOH) followed by the joints of the feet were most affected. No specific pattern of autoantibodies was discovered. The level of total serum IgG, age, female gender, and pulmonary exacerbations per year were significant risk factors for arthropathy in the study cohort.

CONCLUSIONS: Joint symptoms in CF are a frequent and clinically relevant phenomenon with a distinct clinical pattern. Pulmonary exacerbations and elevated levels of total serum IgG may reflect chronic inflammation in patients with CF and may lead to a specific arthropathy associated with this condition.