Rheumatoid Arthritis – Key aspect, Types, Diagnosis & Treatment. ​

 

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)

Rheumatoid Arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks joint linings (synovium), causing painful inflammation, stiffness, and potential deformity, usually affecting small joints in hands and feet symmetrically. Symptoms include warm, swollen, tender joints, morning stiffness lasting  mins, fatigue, and fever. While there is no cure, early treatment (DMARDs) is crucial to manage symptoms, prevent joint damage, and improve long-term prognosis

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Key Aspects of Rheumatoid Arthritis:

• Symptoms: Joint pain, swelling, tenderness, and stiffness, particularly in the morning, often occurring on both sides of the body. Systemic symptoms like fatigue, low-grade fever, and appetite loss are common.

• Stages: RA typically progresses from initial inflammation of the joint lining (synovitis) to cartilage and bone damage, and finally to joint deformity and loss of function if untreated.

• Causes: The exact trigger is unknown, but it is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the joint lining.

• Risk Factors: Factors include being female, middle-aged (commonly 55+), having a family history of RA, smoking, and environmental exposures.

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Types of Rheumatoid Arthritis:

• Seropositive: Tests positive for anti-CCP or rheumatoid factor (RF) antibodies.

• Seronegative: Tests negative for these antibodies, but exhibits typical symptoms.

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Diagnosis:

• Physical Exam: Checking for swollen, warm joints and symmetry of symptoms.

• Blood Tests: Looking for inflammation markers (CRP or ESR), RF, and anti-CCP antibodies.

• Imaging: X-rays, ultrasound, or MRI to check for joint damage. 

 

 

Treatment:

• Medications: Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are the primary treatment to slow progression. Others include immunosuppressants, biologics, steroids, and NSAIDs for pain.

• Therapy: Physical and occupational therapy to maintain joint mobility.

• Surgery: In severe cases, joint replacement (e.g., knee or hip) may be needed. 

   

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