Rheumatoid Arthritis: Background Info Flashcards
RA is a progressive ______ (inflammation of the synovial membrane) of the ______ joints that can lead to destruction of ligament, tendon, cartilage, and bone.
Uneven distribution of biomechanical forces on weakened
ligaments and tendons can lead to permanent deformities of the joint
synovitis
diarthrodial
Joint swelling from excessive ___ combined with enlargement of the synovium and thickening of the joint capsule leads to weakened joint capsules and distended tendons and ligaments.
synovial fluid
With symmetric polyarticular presentation of RA, what are the most commonly affected joints?
PIP, MCP, All thumb joints, wrist, elbow, ankle, metatarsophalangeal. temporamandibular, hips, knees, shoulder, and cervical spine
Common symptoms of RA include:
pain, redness, warmth, tenderness, morning stiffness, ROM limitations, muscle weakness, weight loss, malaise, fatigue, and depression
In RA, a systemic disease, some secondary extra-articular complications, may occur in which body systems?
cardiovascular, ocular, respiratory, gastrointestinal, renal, and neurological
Boutonniere deformity:
flexion of the PIP joint and hyperextension of the DIP joint
Swan neck deformity:
hyperextension of the PIP joint and flexion of the DIP joint
Mallet finger:
flexion of the DIP joint
- Ulnar drift:
radial deviation of the wrist and ulnar deviation of the MCP joints (sometimes called a
zigzag deformity)
Mutilans deformity:
characterized by very floppy joints with shortened bones and redundant skin; caused by reabsorption of bone ends; most common in the MCP, PIP, radiocarpal, or radioulnar
joints
Acute phase of RA:
2.
pain and tenderness at rest that increases with movement; limited ROM; overall stiffness; gel phenomenon (inability to move joints after rest); weakness; tingling or numbness; hot, red joints;
cold, sweaty hands; low endurance; weight loss or decreased appetite; fever
Subacute phase of RA
reduced pain and tenderness; morning stiffness; limited movement; tingling or numbness; pink, warm joints; low endurance; weakness; gel phenomenon; weight loss or decreased appetite; mild fever
Chronic–active phase of RA
low-grade inflammation, decreased ROM, less tingling, pain and tenderness primarily with movement, low endurance
Chronic–inactive phase of RA
No signs of inflammation, low endurance, pain from stiffness and weakened
joints, morning stiffness primarily related to disuse, limited ROM, weakness and muscle atrophy,
contractures
Stage I RA
no destructive changes on X ray; possible presence of osteoporosis