Rheumatoid Arthritis
Einstein Health Glossary
ICD 10 - M069
What is rheumatoid arthritis?
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic disease that primarily affects the joints, especially those in the hands and feet. It occurs due to a malfunction in the immune system, which mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues, causing inflammation.
Symptoms
Symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis include painful swelling and morning stiffness, particularly in the hands and feet. Over time, and without proper treatment, it can lead to cartilage destruction, bone erosion, and joint deformity.
Causes
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease with no known definitive cause. It results from the immune system attacking the joints and sometimes internal organs such as the heart. Genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors may contribute to its development.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on symptom evaluation, blood tests (such as ESR, CRP, RF, and anti-CCP antibodies), and imaging exams (X-rays, ultrasound, or MRI) to assess inflammation and joint integrity.
Prevention
There is no proven method to prevent rheumatoid arthritis.
Treatment
There is no cure for RA. However, physical therapy and specific medications—such as disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs)—can help control inflammation and slow disease progression. Lifestyle changes and supportive therapies also play a key role.
Duration
Rheumatoid arthritis is a lifelong chronic condition. Once diagnosed, it remains with the individual for life.
Is it contagious?
Rheumatoid arthritis is not contagious.
Can it be contracted more than once?
RA is a chronic disease without a cure. Therefore, it is diagnosed only once and persists over time.