Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that results in a chronic, systemic inflammatory disorder that may affect many tissues and organs, but principally attacks flexible (synovial) joints.

It can be a disabling and painful condition, which can lead to substantial loss of functioning and mobility if not adequately treated.

RA primarily affects joints, however, it also affects other organs in 15–25% of individuals. Arthritis of joints involves inflammation of the synovial membrane.

Joints become swollen, tender and warm, and stiffness limits their movement. With time, multiple joints are affected (it is a polyarthritis).

Most commonly involved are the small joints of the hands, feet and cervical spine, but larger joints like the shoulder and knee can also be involved.

Synovitis can lead to tethering of tissue with loss of movement and erosion of the joint surface causing deformity and loss of function.