CHAPTER 3 Immune System^155
- Explain to the patient:
- Consult with physician before using over-the-counter medication.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
WHAT WENT WRONG?
Antibodies from the bloodstream move into the synovial lining of joints, causing
joints to swell. The swelling affects the functionality of tendons, bones, and liga-
ments that move the joint, resulting in pain with movement. Etiology is unknown,
although genetics plays a part. The usual age of onset is 20 to 40 years, and it
affects about 2 percent of the population. Inflammation and nodules around joints
are common, usually involving the wrists, hands, knees, and feet.
PROGNOSIS
Prognosis is variable. Some patients go into remission and need only moderate
treatment. Others progress with decreased functioning, with cardiac, renal, and
respiratory disease. Life expectancy is greatly lessened for this group.
HALLMARK SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
- Morning stiffness in joints due to the inflammation
- Enlarged joints from swelling
- Pain when moving due to the stiffness
- Limited range of motion because of the inflammation and pain
- Fever, malaise, and weight loss
INTERPRETING TEST RESULTS
- Rheumatoid factor is positive in blood test.
- Positive antinuclear antibody (ANA).
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