Power Doppler Ultrasonography vs MRI in Evaluation of Rheumatoid Arthritis Wrist and Hand

Abstract

RA is is a form of autoimmune arthritis that can cause disability and pathological manifestations of synovitis that most often involve the finger joints in the hand and the wrist joints. MRI & ultrasound have been introduced and evaluated in many studies of inflammatory joint diseases in order to provide early diagnosis along with the potential to monitor early changes in inflammation upon treatment. Both modalities have proven useful and more sensitive than conventional methods like radiographs and clinical scores and have a potential importance for guiding treatment of RA. The use of MSKUS has increased in a variety of rheumatic conditions, particularly RA. MSKUS complements the physical examination by allowing for superior visualization of synovitis and erosive changes Thirty RA patients were recruited for this study. All patients included in this study were subjected to full history taking, clinical examination by the referring rheumatologist, laboratory investigations as well as