Rheumatoid Arthritis Sean 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