CRP and rheumatoid arthritis: In logistic regression analysis, univariable models showed that the following variables had p < 0.050: mutilating changes (p < 0.001), previous joint surgery (p < 0.001), RA duration ≥ 5 years (p = 0.002), pre-existing VS (p = 0.003), corticosteroid administration (p = 0.009), and CRP level at baseline ≥ 3.8 mg/dL (p = 0.010).