Definition and prevalence of residual disease in inflammatory arthritis: a systematic literature review and meta-analysis.

Regarding residual disease definitions (59 studies), disease states were almost exclusively disease activity-based (>99%), but with much variation in specific instruments/thresholds.

Especially peripheral joint counts, pain, physical function and CRP were frequently used (42-56% of studies).

The prevalence of residual disease (84 studies) was notable.

For example, 5-25% of rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis patients in remission still had swollen joints, and up to one-third reported relevant pain or fatigue.