Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by inflammation and swelling in the joints. This condition primarily affects the hands, feet, and other areas, leading to various symptoms and complications.
Symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis include tender, warm, swollen joints, joint stiffness that worsens in the mornings or after periods of inactivity, fatigue, fever, and loss of appetite. The underlying cause of RA is the immune system attacking the body’s own tissues, specifically the lining and cartilage of the joints, resulting in painful swelling.
Diagnosing rheumatoid arthritis can be challenging in its early stages due to symptoms resembling those of many other diseases. No single blood test or physical finding can definitively confirm the diagnosis. However, radiographic findings, including bone marrow edema (decreased signal on T1-weighted images and enhancement of the marrow), can be indicative of RA.
Rheumatoid arthritis has a global prevalence, estimated to be around 1 to 2%, increasing with age, especially in women over 55 years. In the United States, the average annual incidence is approximately 70 per 100,000 individuals. It is a symmetric inflammatory peripheral polyarthritis of unknown etiology, often leading to joint destruction.
Treatment for rheumatoid arthritis includes lifestyle changes, exercise, and medical interventions. The goals are to manage symptoms, prevent joint damage, and improve quality of life. Early and aggressive treatment is crucial for controlling the progression of the disease.
For more detailed information, you can visit these resources:
Medical News Today
Mayo Clinic on Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms and Causes
Healthline: Swelling in RA
Mayo Clinic on Rheumatoid Arthritis Diagnosis and Treatment
Johns Hopkins Arthritis Center
UpToDate: Diagnosis and Differential Diagnosis of Rheumatoid Arthritis
