Abstract
The aim of this study was to examine the influence of obesity on the course of osteoarthritis (OA) in women. Material and methods: 83 women diagnosed with OA were divided into 2 groups. Group 1 (51 patients) with BMI ≥ 30 kg/m 2; Group 2 (32 patients) with BMI <30 kg/m 2. Objectification of symptoms was achieved by using a VAS (visual analogue scale) and index WOMAC. Blood levels of Creactive protein (CRP) and interleukin6 (IL6) also determined. Results: moderate direct relationship between BMI and severity of pain by VAS (r = 356, p = 0,027) was revealed. Excessive body weight (group 2) was established a very close relationship between the change in the index of pain by VAS and difficulties in performing daily activities (B WOMAC) (r = 0,971, p = 0.28). In both groups of patients with OA, regardless of BMI, there was the high level of CRP and IL6. Women with a degenerativedestructive joint disease obtained a very close relationship between IL6 and severity of pain by VAS (r = 0,99; p = 0,23). In patients with OA 2 groups revealed a strong relationship (r = 0,84, p = 0.002) between the rates of CRP and IL6 and significant relationship (r = 0,67, p = 0.006) between these same indicators in women with BMI <30 kg/m 2. Conclusions: The course of OA in women with excessive body weight is accompanied by more marked pain syndrome, increased levels of biomarkers of systemic inflammation, significant functional impairment and frequent development of synoviitis of the knee.