Ultrasound of synovitis in rheumatoid arthritis: advantages of the dorsal over the palmar approach to finger joints.

Objective: To compare the dorsal and palmar ultrasound (US) examination of finger joints in early rheumatoid arthritis (RA) with regard to the concurrence of greyscale (GSUS) and power Doppler (PDUS) positivity, and to correlate both approaches with clinical variables.

Methods: Patients with newly diagnosed RA were assessed by clinical examination and US. GSUS and PDUS of metacarpophalangeal (MCP) and proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joints were performed using the dorsal and palmar approach.

Interleukin 22 serum levels are associated with radiographic progression in rheumatoid arthritis.

Objectives: To study the role of interleukin 22 (IL-22) in rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods: IL-22 serum levels were measured in patients with early, treatment-naive RA (n=49) and in 45 age- and sex-matched healthy individuals as controls. Patients were assessed clinically and radiographically at baseline and followed up for 2 years.