Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

About

Specialities

Find Your Region

About

Specialities

Find Your Region

About the disease & condition

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic, systemic autoimmune disorder characterized by persistent inflammatory synovitis, primarily affecting peripheral joints in a symmetric pattern. It leads to progressive joint damage, deformity, and functional disability if untreated, and is often associated with extra-articular manifestations.

Known Symptoms

Articular features: Symmetric polyarthritis (hands, wrists, knees, feet). Morning stiffness >1 hour, joint swelling, pain, warmth. Progressive deformities (e.g., ulnar deviation, boutonnière/swan-neck deformities).
Extra-articular manifestations:
Rheumatoid nodules (subcutaneous, often over extensor surfaces). Pulmonary fibrosis, pleuritis, pericarditis.
Vasculitis, scleritis, Sjögren’s syndrome. Cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis. Systemic symptoms: Fatigue, fever, weight loss.
Red flags: Rapid joint destruction, systemic organ involvement.

Known Causes

Etiology: Genetic predisposition (e.g., HLA-DRB1 shared epitope, PTPN22). Environmental triggers (e.g., smoking, infections, hormonal changes).
Pathophysiology: Dysregulated immune response with autoantibody production (rheumatoid factor [RF], anti-citrullinated protein antibodies [ACPA]). Synovial inflammation mediated by cytokines (e.g., TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1), leading to pannus formation, cartilage destruction, and bone erosion.

Care

Prevention: Early diagnosis and aggressive treatment to prevent erosions. Smoking cessation, cardiovascular risk reduction.
Follow-up: Regular monitoring of disease activity (e.g., DAS28, CDAI). Serial imaging to assess structural damage. Screening for extra-articular features and medication side effects. Vaccinations (avoid live vaccines on immunosuppressants).

Note:
RA requires lifelong management with a treat-to-target approach. Multidisciplinary care (rheumatology, physiotherapy, ophthalmology) is essential. Patient education on self-management and adherence is critical for optimal outcomes.

Relevant Specialities

Rheumatology

Rheumatology is the medical specialty focused on conditions affecting the joints, muscles, and immune system.

It supports patients with a range of inflammatory and autoimmune conditions that may impact mobility, comfort, and overall quality of life. The specialty plays an important role in identifying these conditions early and managing them effectively over time.

At KIMSHEALTH, rheumatology care is delivered through a patient-first approach, focusing on accurate diagnosis, ongoing management, and helping patients maintain mobility and long-term well-being.

Available in Oman

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