Week 7 - Inflammatory Joint Disease Flashcards
What is rheumatoid arthritis?
RA is an autoimmune disorder of unknown characterised by symmetric, erosive synovitis and in some cases extra-articular involvement.
It is a chronic, systemic, long term inflammatory disease in which joint in the body become inflamed.
What are the 4 stages of RA?
- Synovitis
- Pannus
- Fibrous Anklosis
- Bony Anklosis
What is synovitis in RA?
After an external trigger, the synovial membrane becomes inflamed and thickened. The bones and cartilage are gradually eroded.
What is pannus in RA?
As synovitis progresses, there is extensive cartilage loss and bones are exposed and pitted and a granulomatous pannus is formed.
What is fibrous anklosis in RA?
The joint is then invaded by fibrous connective tissue trying to repair the cartilage damage.
What is bony anklosis in RA?
The bones then fuse together
What is IL-1?
An inflammatory cytokine interleukin which plays a pivotal role in the inflammatory and destructive processes of RA
What are the criteria for diagnosis of RA?
Need to meet 3 of the following criteria: Polyarthritis in 3 joints Morning stiffness for 1 hour or greater Hand joint involvement Symmetrical arthritis Rheumatoid nodules Elevated ESR/C-reactive Protein Radiological evidence
What is the second most common form of arthritis?
RA
Are males or females more likely to be affected by RA?
Females 3:1
What age does RA usually appear?
40-60 years
What are associated symptoms of RA?
Fever
Fatigue
Malaise
What are the symptoms of RA?
Symmetric joint pain Swelling of small peripheral joints Morning joint stiffness Other diffuse aching Fatigue Malaise Depression
What are the presenting signs of RA in the hands?
Radial deviation of hand at the wrist
Ulnar deviation of fingers at MCPs
Dorsal subluxation of Ulnar head (due to interruption of radioulnar ligament
How is RA managed?
Medications - NSAIDs, corticosteroids PT OT SP Surgery
What is a fatal complication of RA?
C1-C2 instability
What is gout?
Gout is a build up of uric acid, by either too much being produced or not enough being excreted.
What is the most common joint affected by gout?
The MTP joint of the big toe (hallux)
Can also affect the ankle, knee, foot, hand, wrist and elbow