What are the risk factors for cardiovascular disease in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus?
The risk factors for cardiovascular disease in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus include traditional Framingham risk factors (e.g., hypertension, diabetes, smoking, hyperlipidemia), carotid plaque thickness, infectious burden, and atrial fibrillation. Studies have also found that accelerated atherosclerosis, as indicated by increased carotid intima-media thickness, is more apparent in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus compared to those with rheumatoid arthritis. Additionally, an increased risk of stroke has been associated with infections in patients with both conditions.