Inflammatory arthritis is a term that encompasses various types of arthritis characterized by inflammation in the joints. This condition significantly affects the quality of life of those afflicted, necessitating a thorough understanding for effective management.
Arthritis can be broadly classified into two categories: inflammatory arthritis and non-inflammatory arthritis. Differentiating whether arthritis in a patient is inflammatory or non-inflammatory is crucial for diagnosis and management. Inflammatory arthritis is usually associated with conditions like Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and Psoriatic arthritis (PsA).
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is one of the most common forms of inflammatory arthritis, typically affecting joints in the hands, wrists, and knees. PsA is a chronic form of arthritis that usually occurs in people with psoriasis, a condition that accelerates the growth of skin cells. Approximately 30% of people with psoriasis develop PsA.
The treatment of inflammatory arthritis may vary depending on the type, but some general treatments include medications often used to treat different types of inflammatory arthritis.
The main symptoms of arthritis are joint pain and stiffness, which typically worsen with age. The most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis causes the breakdown of cartilage at the joints, while rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease.
Inflammatory arthritis describes a group of conditions where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the tissues in the joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and a decreased range of motion.
Rheumatoid arthritis is the most common form of inflammatory arthritis, often involving more than one of the small joints of the hands and feet. The lining of the joint or tendons (the synovium) becomes inflamed, causing warmth, pain, and stiffness. In 30% to 60% of people with RA, blood tests confirm the presence of specific proteins.
Arthritis is a common disorder affecting joints, causing pain and inflammation, and making movement difficult. While it typically affects older adults, it can develop in individuals of any age, regardless of gender.
For more detailed information, visit the following resources:
StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
Verywell Health
Healthline
Mayo Clinic
Medical News Today
Hospital for Special Surgery
Cleveland Clinic
