Rheumatoid Arthritis Flashcards
When do autoimmune diseases occur?
When there is dysregulation of the immune system with loss of self tolerance
What are the clinical features common to all autoimmune rheumatic diseases?
Malaise, fatigue, eight loss.
Myalgia.
Arthritis.
Anaemia of chronic disease
Name 6 autoimmune connective tissue diseases
Scleroderma Rheumatoid Arthritis Granulomatosus Dermatomyositis Systemic Lupus erythematosus Sjorgen's
What antibodies are highly specific to RA?
Anti-citrullinated protein antibodies ACPA)
How long does disease onset take in RA?
Few weeks or months
Name 6 signs/symptoms of RA
Painful, stiff joint due to inflammatory synovitis. Symmetrical swelling in small joints. Large joints sometimes affected. Fatigue Flu-like symptoms Morning stiffness
What is the radiological evidence of early RA?
Soft tissue swelling Periarticular osteopenia. Narrowing of joint space. Loss of cartilage. Juxta-articular erosions. Large cystic erosions.
What lab results would you look at for someone with suspected RA?
ESR CRP RF FBC Electrolytes Creatinine Hepatic enzyme levels Urinalysis Synovial fluid analysis ACPA
What DAS28 score indicates remission?
1-2
What DAS28 score indicates low disease activity?
1-3
What DAS28 score indicates high disease activity?
5-10
Which genotype is associated with more severe forms of RA?
HLA-DRB1
What laboratory results would indicate a poor outcome of RA?
High EST or CRP at outset.
Positive RF and ACPA.
What drugs only provide symptomatic relief in RA?
NSAIDS
Analgesics
What drugs prevent or impede joint damage and alleviate disease signs and symptoms in RA?
Glucocorticoids
DMARDS
Biologics
