Papers of the Week

 Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients present exacerbated blood pressure response to exercise, but little is known regarding the underlying mechanisms involved.  This study assessed autonomic and hemodynamic responses to exercise and to the isolated activation of muscle metaboreflex in post-menopausal women with RA.  Participants with RA showed augmented pressor and sympathetic responses to exercise and to the activation of muscle metaboreflex. These responses were associated with multiple pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines and with pain.  The results of the present study support the notion that an abnormal reflex control of circulation is an important mechanism underlying the exacerbated cardiovascular response to exercise and increased cardiovascular risk in RA.