Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that primarily causes inflammation in joints and other parts of the body. Affecting over 100 different types of joints, RA is known for its persistent symmetric polyarthritis, often involving the hands and feet, though it can affect any joint lined by a synovial membrane. The hallmark feature of this condition is its chronic systemic inflammatory nature, which remains a significant challenge in the medical community due to its unknown cause.
RA’s symptoms typically start in small peripheral joints and are usually symmetric. This condition leads to joint destruction through the erosion of cartilage and bone. Without treatment, it can result in the loss of physical function, inability to perform daily tasks, and difficulties in maintaining employment. The disease’s progression is often marked by joint stiffness, usually worse in the mornings and after periods of inactivity, accompanied by fatigue, fever, and loss of appetite.
The disease’s pathophysiology involves a complex interaction between genetic and environmental factors, including tobacco. Early rheumatoid arthritis tends to affect smaller joints first — particularly the joints that attach fingers to hands and toes to feet. As the disease progresses, symptoms often spread to the wrists, knees, and other joints.
For a more comprehensive understanding, presentations and resources on Rheumatoid Arthritis are available, providing valuable insights into its epidemiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, differential diagnosis, and management strategies.
Rheumatoid arthritis Vignesvararajah Lokeesan offers 28 slides covering various aspects of RA. Similarly, Rheumatoid arthritis by Anjali Rarichan provides an in-depth look through 40 slides. Additionally, the Arthritis Foundation’s brochure offers detailed information and is a valuable resource for understanding RA.
Other resources such as Medscape’s Clinical Presentation, UpToDate’s diagnosis and differential diagnosis, and StatPearls from NCBI provide further detailed information on the topic. For epidemiological data, the Epidemiology of Arthritis presentation from Virginia Commonwealth University is a rich resource. Lastly, for symptoms and causes, the Mayo Clinic’s page on Rheumatoid Arthritis provides comprehensive information.
