Rheumatoid Arthritis Could Be Linked To Intestinal Bacteria
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder characterized by the presence of harmful inflammation that damages joint. Current treatment is limited to pain management and attempts to reduce inflammation with immune system suppressants. Researchers are looking for clues into what causes rheumatoid arthritis so new and better treatments can be developed. Recently, a study found that many patients newly diagnosed with the condition test positive for a certain intestinal bacteria, called Prevotella copri , or P. copri for short. Usually, P. copri is thought to be a beneficial bacteria; it helps the body control levels of harmful bacteria and ferment carbohydrates that have been undigested, providing the body with energy. But too much of a good thing is a bad thing. An overabundance of the bacteria may spark the immune system's attack mechanisms. Researchers took fecal samples from 44 newly diagnosed rheumatic patients, 26 chronic rheumatic patients who were receiving treatment, 16