Rheumatoid Arthritis
is the second most common type of arthritis and the most severe. It affects 5 to 8 million Americans. may begin at any age, but is most common to strike people in their 30�s and 40�s. When it affects children, it is termed Juvenile . It affects women three times more often then men.
The cause of is unknown, but it is clear that the immune system is linked. The immune system normally protects against foreign invaders and disease. Instead, in , it attacks the joints, especially the synovium (joint lining), which results inflammation. It most commonly destroys small joints, such as those in the hands and feet. The synovium secretes more fluid, which makes the joints more swollen. In ...
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counts are also part of diagnosis. Radiology studies will show soft tissue swelling, narrowed joint space and marginal erosions.
Signs and symptoms of early can be feeling of fatigue, low-grade fever, anorexia, weight loss and weakness. Midcourse symptoms include: tenderness, pain and stiffness in the affected joints; reduced joint function; paresthesia; joint contractors and deformities. The symptoms of late (chronic) range from subcutaneous nodules, cysts that develop in the synovium and in the bone, leg ulcers, inflammation and dryness of mucous membranes, valvular lesions, splemomegaly, and joint fixation. occurs in a bilateral, symmetric pattern and spreads to the wrists, elbows, knees and ankles. The course of the disease varies. There are times of remission and times when it flares up.
cases may also be classified in relation to functional capacity. Class I are patients with no loss of function. Class II is minor damage of functional capacity with some pain and ...
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Rheumatoid Arthritis. (2007, February 15). Retrieved January 12, 2025, from http://www.essayworld.com/essays/Rheumatoid-Arthritis/60330
"Rheumatoid Arthritis." Essayworld.com. Essayworld.com, 15 Feb. 2007. Web. 12 Jan. 2025. <http://www.essayworld.com/essays/Rheumatoid-Arthritis/60330>
"Rheumatoid Arthritis." Essayworld.com. February 15, 2007. Accessed January 12, 2025. http://www.essayworld.com/essays/Rheumatoid-Arthritis/60330.
"Rheumatoid Arthritis." Essayworld.com. February 15, 2007. Accessed January 12, 2025. http://www.essayworld.com/essays/Rheumatoid-Arthritis/60330.
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