RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS By: Julie Le and Mary Le 5/2/12 4 th pd.

What is it?  Chronic inflammation of joints and other areas of the body -wrist, knees, knuckles, ankles  Progressive illness that can cause joint destruction and functional disability  Affects people of all ages

How is the disease autoimmune?  Immune system produces antibodies -attacks and destroys healthy tissues found in joints  Immune system attacks the synovium-the lining that covers various joints  Inflammation of synovium is symmetrical

Symptoms  Morning stiffness (could last for at least 1 hour) -joints harder to use  Swelling and pain -area is sensitive and tender  Nodules - lumps under the skin  Fluid buildup  Flu-Like symptoms

Treatments  Medications -immunosuppressant -Non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)  Therapy - exercises to keep joints flexible  Surgery -total joint replacement -joint fusion -There is no known cure

Additional Information  Causes of rheumatoid arthritis is unknown  Common rheumatic disease that affects approximately 1.3 million people in the U.S.  Disease is 3 times more common in women than men

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