Arterial properties in adults with long-lasting active juvenile idiopathic arthritis compared to healthy controls.

The patients had higher Z0 as assessed by Windkessel model (mean ± SD 65.0 ± 30.1 versus 53.4 ± 18.8 10- 3 mmHg/ml/s, p = 0.027), lower C as assessed by either Windkessel model or ratio of stroke volume and pulse pressure (1.57 ± 0.46 versus 1.80 ± 0.65 ml/mmHg, p = 0.030, 1.29 ± 0.37 versus 1.43 ± 0.34 ml/mmHg, p = 0.038), and similar R compared to the controls. Years on daily prednisolone and insulin resistance were the most important correlates of Z0. Metotrexat use, polyarticular disease course and erythrocyte sedimentation rate were also associated with a higher Z0. CONCLUSION: Our results indicate that JIA patients had altered arterial properties as compared to controls. Years on daily prednisolone and insulin resistance were the most important correlates of altered arterial properties.