Rheumatoid Arthritis Flashcards
What is rheumatoid arthritis
a chronic systemic inflammatory condition that could potentially become deformative and become polyarthritic
What sex is rheumatoid arthritis more common in?
females
What are triggers for rheumatic arthritits
genetic susceptibility, smoking, environmental triggers, infection??
What are some changes that occur in rheumatoid arthritits
tendon sheath is inflamed, synovial membrane inflamed
Wha tis the pathology of rheumatic arthritis
synovium is full of macrophages, fibroblasts, and giant cells. Membrane expands and invades surrounding cartilage and bone
what symptoms would you encounter in RA
joint pain, stiffness, swelling, general malaise and potential respiratory/ neurological/ skin/ eye problems
What are some signs of RA?
deformity, swelling, tenderness and reduced range of movementa
What joints are involved in RA?
all PIP, tarsal joints, knee, shoulder, elbow,, hip
What investigation are used for RA?
anti CCP and rheumatoid factor/inflam markers/ anaemia/ USS
What is myelopathy?
disease of the spinal cord
\what complications can arise form RA?
interstitial lung disease, peripheral neuropathy, joint infection, local myelopathy
What is the treatment for RA?
1- DMARDS (methotrexate, sulfasalazine, hydroxychloroquine with steroid cover for ‘lag phase’ 2- review regularly,
When are biological agents used?
When DMARDS aren’t working by themselves, can introduce biological agents
