The association between autoimmune thyroiditis and rheumatoid arthritis: pathogenetic mechanisms and clinical features
Received: 2026-06-17 14:38:11
Published: 2026-05-21
Abstract
Autoimmune thyroiditis (AIT) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are chronic autoimmune diseases characterized by persistent inflammation and immune dysregulation. The coexistence of these conditions is frequently observed in clinical practice and may negatively affect disease course, patient quality of life, and treatment outcomes. This study aimed to investigate the association between AIT and RA and to identify clinical and pathogenetic factors contributing to their simultaneous development. A total of 68 patients diagnosed with both AIT and RA were evaluated at the Tashkent Medical Academy clinic. Clinical assessment included physical examination, medical history analysis, evaluation of thyroid function, and joint status. Laboratory investigations involved the measurement of anti-thyroid peroxidase (anti-TPO) antibodies and inflammatory markers. The findings demonstrated that patients with RA, particularly women aged 40–60 years, had an increased risk of developing AIT. Patients with comorbid disease exhibited more severe fatigue, joint pain, and thyroid dysfunction compared with isolated disease cases. In addition, control of one autoimmune condition did not consistently prevent the progression of the other, emphasizing the importance of an integrated multidisciplinary management approach. The study highlights the clinical significance of early recognition of autoimmune comorbidity and the need for further research into shared pathogenetic mechanisms and targeted therapeutic strategies.
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