Low IGF-1 and greater adiponectin levels were associated with lower muscle mass in rheumatoid arthritis , according to an assessment of 50 patients aged 18-70. Lower IGF-1 levels were seen in subjects with greater disease activity and severity.

Whole-body dual energy X-ray absorptiometry measures of the appendicular lean mass index (ALMI) and total fat mass index were obtained. Peripheral quantitative computed tomography measures of the lower leg muscle and fat cross-sectional area (CSA) were taken as well.

Older individuals had higher adioponectin and lower insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) levels.

Eight participants had IGF-1 levels below the reference range for their age and sex. These lower levels were associated with greater clinical disease activity and severity.

After adjusting for age and sex, greater adiponectin levels were associated with lower BMI, ALMI, and CSA.

Citation: Baker J, Von Feldt J, Sogol M, et al. Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 and Adiponectin and Associations with Muscle Deficits, Disease Characteristics, and Treatments in Rheumatoid Arthritis. J Rheumatol. 2015; September 1,2015. doi:10.3899/jrheum.150280.