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Rheumatoid ArthritisSean Stives
What is it?
Chronic disease affecting mainly synovial joints (usually in the hands and feet)
Causes pain and stiffening in joints Autoimmune response causes
inflammation around the joints Build up of excess synovial fluid and
fibrous tissue can lead to fusion of joints Can reduce lifespan of patients 3-12 years
Symptoms
Joints are swollen, tender, and warm Stiffness in joints especially after waking up
in the morning or after other prolonged inactivity
Joints are often
affected in a
symmetrical
fashion
Rheumatoid Nodule
Very prominent and defining of Rheumatoid arthritis
Build up of dead fibrin-rich tissue surrounded by macrophages and fibroblasts.
Form around afflicted joints
Causes and Prevalence
Affects about 1.3 Million Americans
70% of whom are women Exact cause is unknown Primary risk factors:
Genetics Smokers are up to 3x more likely to
develop RA Vitamin D deficiency Epstein-Barr virus and Human Herpes
Virus 6
Diagnosis
X-rays, MRI's, and ultrasonography
used to detect inflammation Blood tests for Rheumatoid
factor if RA is suspected Only positive in 85% of rheumatoid
arthritis patients
Treatment
Rheumatoid arthritis cannot be prevented Regular exercise to maintain muscle
function Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs
Improve symptoms, decrease joint damage, improve overall function
Anti-inflammatory drugs Not recommended for long term but
applies mild, short-term relief