Washington, Aug 5 - Scientists have revealed that depression and inflammation can increase the likelihood of pain in rheumatoid arthritis (RA), a condition in which patients experience stiffness, swelling, pain and a deterioration in their joints.

Researchers at Nagoya City University and Nagoya University Graduate Schools of Medicine, Japan studied the link between levels of depression symptoms and pain.

The research team, led by Masayo Kojima, evaluated 218 RA patients. Blood samples from participants were taken to measure their CRP levels.

CRP is a plasma protein that is produced by the liver and rises during incidents of acute inflammation in RA. Inflammation is a basic way in which the body reacts to infection, irritation etc.

According to this study, inflammation and depression each independently increased the likelihood of severe pain. The combined effects of high CRP levels and depression predicted severe pain even more strongly.

'Results of our research demonstrate the potential for clinicians to improve pain control by addressing their patients' psychological symptoms in addition to conducting anti-inflammation therapy,' stated Dr.