13 - Rheumatoid Arthritis

Question 1

Symmetrical arthritis affecting the metacarpophalangeal joints, associated with morning stiffness lasting over an hour. Why not osteoarthritis?

Answer 1

Morning stiffness lasting over an hour is not a typical symptom

Question 2

Symmetrical arthritis affecting the metacarpophalangeal joints, associated with morning stiffness lasting over an hour. Why not gout or reactive arthritis?

Answer 2

Distribution is not typical of gout or reactive arthritis

Question 3

What blood results can be seen in rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer 3

Inflammatory markers usually raised (sometimes not)

Mild normocytic anaemia (anaemic of chronic disease often seen in RA)