Abstract
PURPOSE: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by synovial inflammation and joint destruction, imposing a significant burden on society. Recent research highlights the critical role of extracellular vesicles (EVs) in RA, but no bibliometric analysis has comprehensively examined this field. This study aims to fill that gap. METHODS: Relevant publications from the past 2 decades were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection database. Bibliometric analyses were conducted using VOSviewer and the R package "Bibliometrix" to evaluate annual output, collaboration networks, research hotspots, current status, and developmental trends in this field. RESULTS: A total of 512 publications (311 articles and 201 reviews) from 922 institutions across 59 countries were analyzed. China led in publication volume and citations. Southwest Medical University was the top institution. Frontiers in Immunology published the highest number of publications (35) and received the most citations (1042). The most productive author was LIU Y (13 papers), and the most cited was GAY S (141 citations). Keyword and paper bibliometric analyses revealed revealed 2 major focuses: the role of EVs in RA pathogenesis and therapeutic strategies. High-frequency keywords such as "dendritic cells," "T-cells," and "microRNAs" highlight the involvement of immune cell-derived EVs in RA pathogenesis. While terms like "stem cells" and "mesenchymal stem cells" suggest growing interest in their immunomodulatory potential. CONCLUSION: This study represents the first bibliometric analysis of the relationship between RA and EVs. By objectively summarizing the current literature, this work provides insights into the roles of EVs in RA and serves as a valuable reference for researchers interested in this field.