Rheumatoid arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is the form of inflammatory arthritis. The distinguishing feature of RA is that it is polyarticular, i.e. it affects many joints at the same time.
It is thought that rheumatoid arthritis is most likely caused by an infection that upsets the body's protective immune system in an individual who has inherited a tendency to develop the disease.
- Rheumatoid arthritis usually begins between the ages of 40 and 60
- It is three times more common in females than in males.
- It is 4 times more common in smokers than non-smokers.
- It is seen especially among the poor and those with poor dietary habits and excessive physical strain.
- About 60% of RA patients are unable to work 10 years after the onset of their disease
Relevant fact
Positive RF (rheumatoid factor) means seropositive case whereas negative RF refers to seronegative arthritis
Other Types of Arthritis
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