Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic systemic autoimmune inflammatory disease that affect all ethnic groups more in females. It is the result of genetic and environmental factors interaction. The pathogenesis includes interconnected cellular molecular pathways leading to destruction of cartilage and bone.
Vitamin D is a steroid hormone, in addition to its main effects on bone and calcium metabolism, it has other functions in the body, including cell growth regulation, reduction of inflammation and immune and neuromuscular function. functions, plays an important role in calcium homeostasis and bone health.
Evidence has accumulated regarding immune-modulatory actions of vitamin D, and its significant role in different processes of the immune system, namely, stimulating the innate immune system and inhibiting the adaptive immune responses
The immuno-modulatory activities of Vitamin D might be particularly efficient in RA patients and support a therapeutic role of Vitamin D in these patients.
The relationship between the severity of RA and levels of Vitamin D is a subject of immense
interest and therapeutic implications.
The aim of this work is to study the correlation of serum level of 25-hydroxy vitamin D with functional disability and neuropathic pain in rheumatoid arthritis patients.