Matrix changes in articular cartilage in the knee of patients with rheumatoid arthritis after biological therapy: 1-year follow-up evaluation by T2 and T1ρ MRI quantification

Decreasing cartilage thickness and matrix changes appeared in the MFC after 1 year of treatment with bDMARDs. Microstructural damage of the cartilage at baseline is a predictor for further cartilage damage in the knee joint, even if treatment with bDMARDs is effective.