Rheumatoid ArthritisSean Stives

What is it?

Chronic disease affecting mainly synovial joints (usually in the hands and feet)

Causes pain and stiffening in joints Autoimmune response causes

inflammation around the joints Build up of excess synovial fluid and

fibrous tissue can lead to fusion of joints Can reduce lifespan of patients 3-12 years

Symptoms

Joints are swollen, tender, and warm Stiffness in joints especially after waking up

in the morning or after other prolonged inactivity

Joints are often

affected in a

symmetrical

fashion

Rheumatoid Nodule

Very prominent and defining of Rheumatoid arthritis

Build up of dead fibrin-rich tissue surrounded by macrophages and fibroblasts.

Form around afflicted joints

Causes and Prevalence

Affects about 1.3 Million Americans

70% of whom are women Exact cause is unknown Primary risk factors:

Genetics Smokers are up to 3x more likely to

develop RA Vitamin D deficiency Epstein-Barr virus and Human Herpes

Virus 6

Diagnosis

X-rays, MRI's, and ultrasonography

used to detect inflammation Blood tests for Rheumatoid

factor if RA is suspected Only positive in 85% of rheumatoid

arthritis patients

Treatment

Rheumatoid arthritis cannot be prevented Regular exercise to maintain muscle

function Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs

Improve symptoms, decrease joint damage, improve overall function

Anti-inflammatory drugs Not recommended for long term but

applies mild, short-term relief