Exploring the link between rheumatoid arthritis severity and cognitive function in older adults

The Mediating Effect of Nociplastic Pain on the Relationship Between Rheumatoid Arthritis Severity and Cognition in Geriatric Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study

Ahram Canadian University · NCT05934721

This study is trying to see if older adults with more severe rheumatoid arthritis have more trouble with thinking and memory because of increased pain sensitivity.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment100 (estimated)
Ages65 Years to 90 Years
SexAll
SponsorAhram Canadian University (other)
Locations1 site (Al Ḩayy Ath Thāmin, Giza)
Trial IDNCT05934721 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study investigates how nociplastic pain may influence the relationship between the severity of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and cognitive impairment in elderly patients aged 65 to 90 years. It aims to recruit 100 participants with long-standing RA to assess their disease severity, cognitive function, and levels of pain sensitization. The hypothesis is that patients with more severe RA will exhibit worse cognitive function, potentially mediated by higher levels of nociplastic pain.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are elderly individuals aged 65-90 years with a long-standing diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis.

Not a fit: Patients with other inflammatory arthritides, dementia, severe depression, or recent corticosteroid or immunosuppressant use may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide insights into managing cognitive impairment in elderly patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific relationship between nociplastic pain and cognitive function in RA is less explored, similar studies have indicated that chronic pain can impact cognitive health, suggesting potential relevance.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age 65-90 years
* diagnosed with RA for 10-30 years
* meet ACR/EULAR 2010 criteria

Exclusion Criteria:

* Other inflammatory arthritides
* dementia
* severe depression
* recent corticosteroid or immunosuppressant use

Where this trial is running

Al Ḩayy Ath Thāmin, Giza

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Rheumatoid Arthritis, Rheumatic Diseases, Rheumatoid Polyarthritis

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.