Podcast
Questions and Answers
What is the most widely accepted theory of the etiology of Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)?
What is the most widely accepted theory of the etiology of Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)?
What is the name of the autoantibodies produced in Rheumatoid Arthritis?
What is the name of the autoantibodies produced in Rheumatoid Arthritis?
What is a common side effect of systemic steroids used to treat Rheumatoid Arthritis?
What is a common side effect of systemic steroids used to treat Rheumatoid Arthritis?
What is the purpose of DMARDs in treating Rheumatoid Arthritis?
What is the purpose of DMARDs in treating Rheumatoid Arthritis?
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What is a non-pharmacological intervention used to manage Rheumatoid Arthritis?
What is a non-pharmacological intervention used to manage Rheumatoid Arthritis?
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What type of exercise is recommended for individuals with Rheumatoid Arthritis?
What type of exercise is recommended for individuals with Rheumatoid Arthritis?
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Study Notes
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
- Chronic, systemic autoimmune disease characterized by inflammation of connective tissue in synovial joints
- Periods of remission and exacerbation
Epidemiology
- Women are more affected than men, with peaks between 30-50 years old
Causes and Triggers
- Unknown, but likely a combination of genetics and environmental factors
- Environmental triggers: Epstein Barr Virus, Stress, Smoking, older age
Autoimmune Etiology
- Autoantibodies produced against abnormal IgG, known as Rheumatoid Factor (RF)
Pathophysiology
- Neutrophils attracted to site of inflammation, releasing proteolytic enzymes that damage articular cartilage and thicken synovial lining
Management and Treatment
- NSAIDs: watch for GI bleeding, take with food to avoid GI bleeding
- Intra-Articular Steroid Injection: temporary relief
- Systemic steroids: used for acute exacerbation, side effects include high glucose, high BP, high weight, high risk of infection, osteoporosis, and Cushing's syndrome
- DMARDs (disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs):
- Methotrexate (cytotoxic med): slows disease progression, contraindicated in pregnant women, damages liver and kidneys
- Antimalarials (e.g. hydroxychloroquine): causes eye symptoms, blurry vision, and loss of vision
- Leflunomide: hepatotoxic, increases risk of infections
- Biological Response Modifiers (e.g. Humira, Influximab): decrease flare-ups, help settle immune system
Non-Pharmacological Interventions
- Acupuncture
- Chinese traditional medicine
- Exercise: low-impact activities such as swimming and walking
Nursing Care
- Warm compresses
- Cold therapy for edema
- Body mechanic modifications
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Description
Test your knowledge of Rheumatoid Arthritis, a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by inflammation in the synovial joints. Learn about its causes, symptoms, and effects on the human body.
