Pathophysiology and Associated Physical Signs of Rheumatoid Arthritis
Pannus (newly formed synovial tissue infiltrated with inflammatory cells)
Patient Assessment and Diagnostic Findings
- Health history: include onset of and evolution of symptoms, family history, past
health history, and contributing factors
- Functional assessment
- Arthrocentesis (to take fluid for sampling and to relieve pain caused by pressure of
increased fluid volume. After procedure, observe the patient for signs of infection and
hemarthrosis)
- X-rays, bone scans, CTs, and MRIs
- Tissue biopsy
- Blood studies