Abstract: Introduction: Oxygen free radicals that are generated mainly through the phagocytic activity of the polymorphonuclear leucocytea have been implicated as mediators of tissue damage in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Accordingly low levels of antioxidants, which increase free radical activity, are clearly associated with an increased risk of RA. Methods: Of 24 patients who entered the study 14 patients were excluded because they failed regular follow up. The analysis was ...