Rheumatoid arthritis clinical features Flashcards
What are the 7 classifications of rheumatoid arthritis?
- Morning stiffness
- Arthritis of 3 or more joints
- Arthritis of hand joints
- Symmetric arthritis
- Rheumatoid nodules
- Serum rheumatoid factor
- Radiographic changes
What is morning stiffness (lel)
Morning stiffness in and around joints lasting at least an hour
What are rheumatoid nodules?
Subcutaneous nodules over bony prominences, extensor surfaces, or in juxtaarticular regions
What radiographic changes may occur in rheumatoid arthritis?
Erosions
Unequivocal bony decalcifications
What is the prevalence of rheumatoid arthritis?
Around 1% of the population
What is the incidence of rheumatoid arthritis?
Approximately 200 new cases per year
What is the male:female ratio of incidence?
1:3
What is the peak age of onset?
4th/5th decade
What investigations can be done into rheumatoid arthritis?
Immunology - rheumatoid factor, Anti Cyclic Citrullinated Antibodies
X-Rays
What are symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis?
Pain Stiffness Immobility Poor function Systemic symptoms
What are clinical signs of arthritis?
Swelling Tenderness Limitation of movement Redness Heat
What are non-specific systemic features of rheumatoid arthritis?
Fatigue
Weight loss
Anaemia
What are specific systemic features of rheumatoid arthritis?
Eyes Lungs Nerves Skin Kidneys
What are long term systemic features of rheumatoid arthritis?
CVS
Malignancy
How is rheumatoid arthritis assessed?
Disease activity score
DAS<2.4 = clinical remission
DAS>5.1 = Eligibility for biologic therapy
