Abstract

RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS: A REVIEW

Dr. H D Ramachandran. M.Sc. Ph.D*

ABSTRACT

Rheumatoid arthritis is a form of arthritis, an autoimmune diesease that causes pain, swelling, stiffness and loss of function in the joints and remains the most important form of arthritis seen in rheumatological practice in the developed world. The geographical distribution of the disease is remarkably homogeneous. Clinical progress has come from a better recognition of the natural history of the disease. The causes of rheumatoid arthritis are still unclear and a wide variety of factors namely genes, environment and hormones are suspected to contribute. Recent years have seen considerable advances in our understanding of both the clinical and basic-research aspects of rheumatoid arthritis. Treatments include medicine, lifestyle changes and surgery. These can slow or stop joint damage and reduce pain and swelling. The present review article aims to encompass all these aspects in detail.

Keywords: Rheumatoid arthritis, synovial fluid, pannus, autoimmunity, joint inflammation, Tumor necrosis factor, DMARDs, NSAIDs, juxta-articular osteopenia, adjuvant therapies