Network meta-analysis of novel diagnostic biomarkers for rheumatoid arthritis: comparative performance of anti-CarP, anti-MCV, and emerging markers
By
Guanghui Li
Limin Tan
Jiayan Liu
Manxiang Wang
June 16, 2026
Objective: To compare the diagnostic performance of seven novel biomarkers for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) due to limitations of conventional biomarkers, including Anti-CarP and Anti-MCV.
Key Findings: Anti-CarP antibody showed the highest diagnostic efficacy (P-score = 0.80; sensitivity 62-64%, specificity 89%). Anti-MCV ranked second in diagnostic performance (P-score = 0.69). 14-3-3 η protein and its combination with ACPA ranked lowest in diagnostic utility. Interpretation: Remove unsupported conclusions about the potential utility of biomarkers.
Limitations: Substantial heterogeneity across studies regarding sample sizes and detection methods. Lack of direct head-to-head comparisons among biomarkers, which complicates the assessment of their relative performance. Conclusion: Revise to reflect the need for further investigation without unsupported claims.
