Inflammatory Biomarkers in Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Comprehensive Evaluation of Their Prognostic Value for Disease Severity and Outcomes

Abstract

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease marked by inflamed joints, systemic complications, and progressive disability. The early diagnosis of the disease followed by targeted treatment is essential to avert joint damage and to improve treatment outcomes. C-reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), rheumatoid factor (RF), anti-citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPAs), and cytokines like TNF-α and IL-6 are so far known to be important inflammatory markers that indicate the diagnosis of RA, severity of the disease, and monitoring of treatment response. The role of toll-like receptors (TLRs), especially TLR-2 and TLR-4, is emerging in inducing synovial inflammation and causes for joint destruction through the enhancement of pro-inflammatory pathways. In this regard, other emerging biomarkers include calprotectin and miRNAs, which may well hold promise in predicting disease clicks and efficacy of treatment. The present review highlights the relevance of both the old and new biomarkers in progressing RA diagnosis, personalized therapy, and patient management by reiterating that these should be combined to achieve better clinical outcomes.