ARTHRITIS & ARTHRITIDIS 1.2 Flashcards
What triggers the immune system in rheumatoid arthritis (RA)?
Microbial infection (such as EBV)
What receptors recognize microbial infection in RA?
Toll-like receptors (TLR)
What is the result of Toll-like receptor activation in RA?
Upregulation of proinflammatory cytokines leading to synovial lining inflammation
What characterizes the preclinical stage of RA?
Breakdown in self-tolerance leading to activation of autoantibodies
What environmental factors can trigger RA?
Smoking
Which autoantibodies can be present years before RA symptoms appear?
Rheumatoid factor (RF) and anti-CCP antibodies
What is the role of citrullination in RA?
Citrullination of cellular proteins induces self-reactivity leading to immune complex formation
What are the primary criteria for diagnosing RA?
Signs and symptoms of chronic inflammatory arthritis
What imaging modality is best for early detection of RA bone abnormalities?
MRI
What is the earliest radiographic sign of RA?
Periarticular osteopenia
What cell type predominates in the synovial fluid of RA patients?
Neutrophils
What is the pathognomonic lab test for RA?
Positive anti-CCP antibody
What inflammatory markers are elevated in RA?
ESR
What is the usual white blood cell (WBC) count in synovial fluid of RA patients?
5000 to 50 000 WBC/uL
Which imaging modality is most sensitive for detecting early bone erosion in RA?
MRI
What is the significance of power Doppler ultrasound in RA?
It detects synovitis and increased joint vascularity
What is the most common cause of death in RA patients?
Ischemic heart disease
What is the median reduction in life expectancy for men and women with RA?
7 years for men. 3 years for women
What factor increases the risk of extra-articular manifestations in RA?
Early onset of RA (<25 years old)
What percentage of RA patients experience spontaneous remission within 6 months?
0.1
What treatment is considered the DMARD of choice for RA?
Methotrexate
Why is folic acid given alongside methotrexate?
To counteract the hematologic side effects of methotrexate
What is the primary function of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in RA?
Symptom relief (analgesic and anti-inflammatory)
What is the role of glucocorticoids in RA treatment?
Rapid disease control before DMARDs become effective
What test should be performed before administering high-dose glucocorticoids?
Infectious Disease Clearance
What is the most serious long-term complication of glucocorticoid use?
Osteoporosis
What are examples of conventional DMARDs used in RA?
Hydroxychloroquine. sulfasalazine. methotrexate. leflunomide
Which DMARD is contraindicated in reproductive-age females?
Methotrexate
What class of drugs includes TNF inhibitors for RA?
Biologic DMARDs
Why are biologic DMARDs contraindicated in active infections?
They suppress the immune system
What condition contraindicates TNF inhibitors in RA?
Chronic hepatitis B infection or class III/IV congestive heart failure
What is the mechanism of action of Anakinra in RA?
IL-1 receptor antagonist
What does Abatacept target in RA?
CD28-CD80/86 interaction to inhibit T cell co-stimulation
What is the target of Rituximab in RA?
CD20 on B lymphocytes
What does Tocilizumab target in RA?
IL-6 receptor
What drug class does Tofacitinib belong to?
Small molecule JAK inhibitor
What is the main goal of modern RA treatment strategies?
Decrease disease activity and prevent joint damage
Why is early diagnosis and aggressive therapy important in RA?
To prevent joint fusion and disability
What is the significance of achieving clinical remission in RA?
It allows patients to regain joint function and return to normal activities
What physical therapy is recommended to prevent fractures in RA?
Lower-extremity strengthening and dynamic strength training
What assistive device is recommended for RA patients with foot deformities?
Foot orthotics
When is surgery indicated in RA?
For infection. gangrene. osteoporosis or severe joint deformities
What criteria are used to define remission in RA?
Tender joint count. swollen joint count. CRP and global assessment
What is the target score for clinical remission in RA?
Less than 1 for tender/swollen joint count and less than 3.3 for global assessment