Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is the second most common type of arthritis. It affects about 3% of all women and about 1% of all men in the United States. RA is a general connective tissue disorder that affects the skin, vessels, lungs, and other organs, but it is most pronounced in the joints. RA is severely disabling and most commonly destroys small joints, such as those in the hands and feet.
The initial cause of RA is unknown but may involve a transient infection or an autoimmune disease an immune reaction to one's own tissues that develops against collagen. A genetic predisposition may also exist. Whatever the cause, the ultimate course appears to be immunologic. People with classic RA have a protein, rheumatoid factor, in their blood. In RA, the synovial fluid and associated connective tissue cells proliferate, forming a pannus (clothlike layer), which causes the joint capsule to become thickened and destroys the articular cartilage. In advanced stages, opposing joint surfaces can become fused.
Research and discuss 2 of the following:
1. RA is an immunologic disorder. Discuss its development and management.
2. Rheumatoid disease may affect structures other than those of the joints. Discuss these structures and the resulting disorders that may occur.
3. Discuss the surgical management of rheumatoid arthritis.
4. Discuss the medical management of rheumatoid arthritis.