Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that results in a chronic systemic inflammatory disorder. It primarily attacks flexible (synovial) joints and can lead to significant loss of functioning and mobility if not adequately treated. The disease is characterized by its immune-mediated inflammatory nature, focusing on histopathology, disease initiation, propagation, and cytokines. The pathobiology of RA involves genetic factors, synovial cells, cartilage, bone, and osteoclasts.
This article reviews the causes, symptoms, and classification of rheumatoid arthritis, a common chronic inflammatory disease. It affects the synovium of the joint, leading to pain, disability, and extra-articular complications. The pathophysiology of RA, including the role of genetic and environmental factors, is explained, along with the current criteria for diagnosis.
Rheumatoid Arthritis | Pathophysiology of Rheumatoid Arthritis | RA Pathophysiology – Johns Hopkins Arthritis Center
Rheumatoid arthritis is a systemic autoimmune disease characterized by inflammatory arthritis and extra-articular involvement. The chronic inflammatory disorder is often caused by interactions between genes and environmental factors, including tobacco. It primarily involves synovial joints, typically starting in small peripheral joints and is usually symmetric.
Inflammation in RA causes pain, stiffness, and swelling in and around joints. The hallmark feature of RA is persistent symmetric polyarthritis (synovitis) that affects the hands and feet, although any joint lined by a synovial membrane may be involved. The severity of RA may fluctuate over time, but chronic RA most commonly results in the progressive development of various degrees of joint damage.
Learn about rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune and inflammatory disease that causes pain, swelling, and damage to joints and other tissues. Discover the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and complications of RA, as well as management strategies involving medication, physical activity, and self-management.
Rheumatoid Arthritis – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf | Rheumatoid Arthritis Brochure | Rheumatoid Arthritis Clinical Presentation – Medscape | Rheumatoid Arthritis – CDC
