When looking at the risk of developing CVD in patients with reduced kidney function, the study found that RA patients with more advanced kidney disease (eGFR <45 mL/min/1.73 m2) had a significant increased risk of developing CVD (HR, 1.93; 95% CI, 1.04–3.58; P=0.04). No significant association was found between eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73 m2 and the development of CVD in either cohort.
Monitor Patients Closely
Along with close monitoring of kidney function and controlling the underlying inflammatory disease, Dr. Matteson encouraged rheumatologists to help advise patients to use nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) sparingly.
Mary Beth Nierengarten is a freelance medical journalist based in St. Paul, Minn.