Rheumatoid Arthritis Flashcards
Describe Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
Characterized by periods of ___ and ____.
Chronic, progressive, systemic inflammatory autoimmune disease
Autoantibodies, Rheumatoid factors (RF’s), attack healthy tissue, especially synovium
Periods of Remission and Exacerbations
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) Cause:
What is suspected to trigger RA? (2)
UNCLEAR! Combination of:
- Environmental*
- Genetic*
- Gender* (females)
Triggers:
- Infections
- Epstein Barr Virus (EBV aka mono) - Hormones?
What can trigger exacerbations of Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)?
Stress
Is there a Cure for Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)?
Nope, but if treated early, debilitating
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) affects joint _____
SYMMETRICALLY!**
-distinguishing characteristic from osteoarthritis
Assessment + Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
Onset of Sxs?
Onset can be rapid/acute or slow/progressive
Onset more commonly occurs in winter months
Assessment + Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
Describe how Sxs initially present:
Sxs may be vague at onset (weeks to months)
-weakness, fatigue, weight loss, low-grade fever, joint inflammation
Assessment + Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
Describe the Early Presentation of RA:
What joints are affected first?
- S/S of joint inflammation
-slightly reddened, warm, tender, swollen, stiff
-Bilateral and Symmetric
-Migratory arthritis in early disease
More commonly affects upper extremity joints first
Assessment + Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
Describe the Late Presentation of RA:
Worsened joint inflammation with more joint involvement
- Joint Effusions
- gel phenomenon
- Spindle-like fingers
- Muscle atrophy (decreased ROM)
What joints may become involved if RA is left untreated and becomes severe?
- TMJ
2. Cervical joints
What should we suspect if a patient presents with one hot, swollen, painful joint?
Joint INFECTION!
What type of cyst is associated with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)?
Baker’s cyst: fluid-filled; enlarged popliteal bursae
“Rheuma’s got a Baker’s dozen”
Systemic Inflammation resulting from Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is due to inflammation of ______ tissue in other parts of the body.
CONNECTIVE tissue
What are the 3 main organs affected by systemic inflammation caused by Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)?
HEART
LUNGS
EYES
What is Sjogren’s Syndrome and what is the best intervention?
Dry eyes, xerostomia, or vaginal dryness
LUBRICATION!