Rheumatoid Arthritis Flashcards
What is RA
Chronic systemic autoimmune disease characterized by inflammation of connective tissue in synovial joints
Who is more at risk in developing RA
Women (3x more common), peak after 40 but before 60 years old
What is the etiology of RA
Autoimmunity or genetics
What is associated with RA
.Smoking
Sugar and processed foods
What is the pathophysiology of RA
- Activated neutrophils in synovial fluid become activated and degrade surface of cartilage
- Cytokines release pro inflammatory compounds that attack cartilage and bone
- Swelling of synovium and membrane thickens as its cells proliferate and grow abnormally large.
- Often leads to the destruction of articular cartilage and ankylosis of the joints
- Can also produce diffuse inflammation in the lungs, pericardium, pleura, sclera
What are other manifestations of RA
fatigue, weakness, anorexia, weight loss, increased CRP, dryness of eyes/mouth
What is the treatment of RA
Reduce pain, minimize stiffness/ swelling, maintain mobility, physical rest
What are the manifestations of RA
(Presence of four or more)
1. Morning stiffness in and around joints that lasts at least 1 hour
2. Soft tissue swelling in 3 or more joint areas
3. Swelling of at least one wrist, metacarpophalangeal or proximal interphalangeal joints
4. Simultaneous swelling of joint areas
5. Subcutanaeous rheumatic nodules
6. Positive rheumatoid factor (RF)
7. X ray evidence of erosions/ osteopenia of hand and/or wrist joints
8 Systemic manifestations: malaise, fatigue, diffuse musculoskeletal pain
What is the rheumatoid factor considered
an autoantibody
What does the rheumatoid factor bind to
IgG
What does the rheumatoid-IgG complex do
destroys tendons
What does the damage to the tendons from the rheumatoid-IgG complex result in
decreased elasticity
subcutaneous nodules
What is something that is being given to RA patients to help with the symptoms
Anti-TNF’s
What are the side effects with giving RA patients anti-TNF
there more susceptible to infection and tumors
