Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic autoimmune disease characterized by inflammatory arthritis and extra-articular involvement. It is a chronic inflammatory disorder often resulting from the interaction between genetic and environmental factors, including tobacco, primarily affecting synovial joints. Over the past decade, significant advancements have been made in understanding the underlying pathobiology of rheumatoid arthritis.

Rheumatoid arthritis is not just a joint disease but can also impact many body systems, including the skin, eyes, lungs, heart, and blood vessels. As an autoimmune disorder, it involves the immune system mistakenly attacking the body’s tissues. This disease primarily affects the lining of the synovial joints, leading to progressive disability, premature death, and socioeconomic burdens.

StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
Johns Hopkins Arthritis Center
Musculoskeletal and Connective Tissue
Mayo Clinic
Modern Pharmacologic Therapies
Arthritis – StatPearls
UpToDate
Arthritis | CDC
Epidemiology Pathophysiology and Diagnosis

Rheumatoid arthritis’s pathophysiology involves complex interactions between genes and the environment, leading to a breakdown of immune tolerance and synovial inflammation in a symmetric pattern. This chronic condition is the most common form of inflammatory arthritis, affecting approximately 1 percent of the population. Its symptoms include pain, stiffness, decreased range of motion, and joint deformities, with different types of arthritis requiring varied management approaches.

Treatment for rheumatoid arthritis focuses on managing symptoms and slowing disease progression. This includes medications such as cytokines, chemokines, and metalloproteases. The goal is to reduce joint inflammation and prevent joint damage while improving overall well-being. Understanding the intricacies of this autoimmune disease is crucial for effective management and improved quality of life for those affected.