Table 1 Rheumatoid arthritis medical records-based index of severity

1. Surgery sub-scale:

   C1–C2 fusion

   Any hand joint

   Any foot joint

   Major joints (hips, knees, shoulder, elbow, wrist, ankle)

   Maximum score for category:

2. X-ray sub-scale:

   C1–C2 subluxation

   Any erosions

   Maximum score for category:

3. Extra-articular manifestations sub-scale:

   Vasculitis

   Pulmonary nodule

   Maximum score for category:

4. Clinical status sub-scale:

   Arthritis flares

1

2 to 4

5 +

   Worst physician global rating: "doing poor"

   Functional status

Unable to do hobbies

Unable to work

Unable to care for self

   Hours of morning stiffness

<1

1 to 4

>4

   Maximum score for category:

5. Laboratory sub-scale:

   Rheumatoid factor titre > upper limit normal

   Erythrocyte sedimentation rate > age/2 or C-reactive protein > upper limit normal or platelets > 450 K

   Maximum score for category:

Summary score for primary index

6. Optional medication sub-scale:

   Any of the following medications: hydroxychloroquine, gold, sulfasalazine

   Any of the following medications: methotrexate, leflunomide

   Any of the following medications: cyclophosphamide, azathioprine, cyclosporin, anakinra, adalimumab, etanercept, infliximab

   Maximum score for category:

Summary score for extended index: