Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) Medical Quiz

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

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.