Rheumatoid Arthritis Flashcards
What type of condition is rheumatoid arthritis?
Chronic, autoimmune condition
What is characteristic of rheumatoid arthritis?
Symmetrical polyarthritis and systemic symptoms
What is meant by rheumatoid arthritis being polyarthritis?
At least four joints are involved
Which joints tend to be affected by rheumatoid arthritis?
Small joints, commonly MCJ, PIPJ
How long do symptoms need to be present for a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis to be made?
Six weeks
Who is more likely to get rheumatoid arthritis?
Females > males
Peak incidence is in 4th and 5th decade but can occur from age of 16
What are the causes of rheumatoid arthritis?
Genetic- 50%
Environmental
Hormonal
Which gene is associated with rheumatoid arthritis?
HLA-DRB1
B is beta idk how to get that sign…writing these on my tablet, you feel the pain
What are some of the environmental factors which can cause rheumatoid arthritis?
Smoking
Chronic infection e.g. EBV, periodontal disease
Which hormonal changes can cause rheumatoid arthritis?
Early menopause
Low testosterone levels in men
Symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis?
Pain
Morning stiffness >30mins
Immobility
Poor function
Systemic symptoms
->apparently some patients with rheumatoid arthritis have to get up several hours before work so the stiffness wears off so they can get ready
Signs of rheumatoid arthritis?
Tenderness
Redness
Warmth
Swelling
Limited movement
There are a few joints that rheumatoid arthritis cannot affect. If a patient presents with issues and pain with these joints, rheumatoid arthritis can be ruled out.
What are some of these joints?
Spinous joints e.g. lumbar joints- if affected by arthritis, it tends to be inflammatory rather than rheumatoid
Sacroiliac joints
Sometimes hand with established rheumatoid arthritis can develop ulnar deviation, what does this mean?
Fingers and joints start pointing medially, towards ulna
What are some of the non-specific systemic features of rheumatoid arthritis?
Fatigue
Weight loss
Anaemia
