Description

Pincus et al developed the RAPID3 index (routine assessment of patient index data 3) to rapidly evaluate patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). This can rapidly determine the patient's status and can be used to monitor response to therapy. The authors are from New York University and NYU Hospital for Joint Diseases.


 

The index consists of three 10 cm VAS scales:

(1) pain

(2) physical function (impairment)

(3) patient global estimate for status

 

RAPID3 =

= SUM(VAS scores for all 3 scales)

 

Interpretation:

• minimum score: 0

• maximum score: 30

• The higher the score the worse the rheumatoid arthritis.

RAPID3

Disease Activity

<= 3.0

remission

3.1 to 6.0

low

6.1 to 12.0

moderate

>= 12.1

high

 

Variations:

• The score can be divided by 3 to give a score from 0 to 10, but this takes longer and provides no additional information. It also introduces the chance for a calculation error.

• The index can be combined with joint counts and/or physician global assessments.

 


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