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H K Graudal

Publications and source records attributed to H K Graudal.

2 recordsLinked to original sources

Seropositive rheumatoid arthritis in monozygotic twin sisters carrying HLA-DR4 or DR4 associated with B27.

We have followed 3 pairs of monozygotic twin sisters with seropositive rheumatoid arthritis (RA) since 1966, 1971 and 1975. RA developed in the probands at the age of 25, 39 and 21 years and in the cotwins 37, 8 and 19 years later, respectively. Two pairs, Nos 1 and 3, were discordant when first seen. Only Pair 1 had a family history of RA. Onset of RA was not related to marital status or pregnancy. It was improbable that contagious infections of childhood or seasonal infections could be important triggers of RA. Since the concordance rate for RA in monozygotic twins depends on the duration of the observation period, the previously stated concordance rate of 30% may be questioned.

Adult

Waaler Rose titres may decrease but increase again during chrysotherapy.

In 62 patients with seropositive rheumatoid arthritis, treated with gold compounds, the relationship between serological and clinical response was analysed, based on data on the rheumatoid factor (RF) titre, ESR, number of swollen joints and joint tenderness, through 3 years. Three groups were distinguished. The RF titre became normal in 19, remained elevated in 22, became normal and subsequently again elevated in 21. Responders and non-responders to chrysotherapy occurred in all 3 groups. The findings suggest involvement of pathogenetic mechanisms related to IgM-RF, and of pathogenetic mechanisms which are not related to IgM-RF, and which may be responsive or unresponsive to chrysotherapy.

Agglutination Tests