RELACIÓN ENTRE LOS NIVELES DE ANTICUERPOS ANTIPÉPTIDOS CÍCLICOS CITRULINADOS (ANTI-CCP) Y EL TABAQUISMO EN LA UNIVERSIDAD TÉCNICA DE AMBATO

Abstract

Introduction: Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease characterized by the presence of Anti-Cyclic Citrullinated Peptide Antibodies (anti-CCP) generated by factors such as smoking. Tobacco serves as a toxic agent that triggers the process of protein citrullination by increasing the expression of the enzyme peptidyl arginine deaminase (PAD), intensifying this process and raising the risk of developing the disease. Objective: Analysis of the relationship between smoking and Anti-Cyclic Citrullinated Peptide Antibodies (anti-CCP) values. Methodology: Questionnaires were designed with inclusion and exclusion items to categorize the population as either smokers or non-smokers to measure antiCCP levels using the ELISA immunoassay. For the statistical analysis of relational data, tests such as Spearman's correlation coefficient (RHO), Student's T test, Chi-Square, Odds Ratio (OR), Kruskal-Wallis, and Games-Howell Post Hoc analysis were applied. Results: Among smokers, 41% had high levels of anti-CCP (<25U/ml), and 9% had normal values. On the other hand, among non-smokers, 14% showed elevated levels, and 36% had normal values, with a difference of 27% in anti-CCP positivity between the two populations. Conclusions: Smoking significantly increases the production of anti-CCP autoantibodies due to enhanced peptide citrullination.