Cardiomyopathy in Rheumatoid Arthritis : Imaging and Biomarker Study
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Cardiac Implications of Rheumatoid Arthritis: Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance (CMR) and Biomarker Investigation (pilot study)
IRAS ID
350115
Contact name
Tha Htet Nyi
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Queen Mary, University of London
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 4 months, 0 days
Research summary
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a debilitating chronic condition affecting 18 million people worldwide. It can affect various organ systems including the circulatory system (the heart and blood vessels). RA nearly doubles the risk of heart disease, including clogged arteries and heart failure, comparable to diabetes. Around 40% of all RA individuals develop stiff heart muscle without any symptoms. This could lead to a type of heart failure called heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). Increased inflammation in RA is thought to promote scarring of the heart muscle and reduce heart function, supported by the findings of higher levels of blood markers.
Recent studies using heart ultrasound and heart MRI have explored the heart changes in a small number of RA patients. However, they used conventional measurements, often missing early signs of heart stiffness. Additionally, they did not fully assess the role of blood markers in the process of heart changes in RA patients. These shortcomings support the need for further research using advanced imaging techniques and comprehensive blood markers to understand how RA affects heart failure fully.
This is a 1-year cross-sectional pilot study that involves recruiting eligible RA patients from Rheumatology clinics at Mile End Hospital. They will attend a one-stop research clinic at William Harvey Heart Centre at Queen Mary University of London to undergo blood tests, a heart ultrasound, clinical assessment and questionnaires. We aim to assess the earlier changes in heart function using newer heart ultrasound techniques and analyse the blood samples to identify new relevant markers. This information will uncover the relationship between arthritis severity and heart problems.
This research could help detect the risk of heart failure earlier, allowing timely treatment, and exploring new treatments for RA patients. Our goal is to produce knowledge to improve the care of heart complications of RA patients.
REC name
London - Brighton & Sussex Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
25/PR/0714
Date of REC Opinion
22 Jul 2025
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion