| Abstract: | Clinical and immunological studies were carried out in 24 IgM-RF seropositive and 10 seronegative patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Manifest disorders of microcirculation were noted in the examinees, which was confirmed by changes in platelet hemostasis, detection of antibodies to cardiolipins and of Von Willebrandt's factor antigen, and a high level of circulating immune complexes. Analysis of laboratory and immunological findings showed an association of extraarticular symptoms of RA and detection of anticardiolipin antibodies and Von Willebrandt's factor antigen. The activity of the pathological process correlated with the time course of these parameters. |
