ntroduction: John is a 49-year-old man who has been experiencing joint pain and stiffness for the past six months. He works as an accountant and enjoys outdoor activities during the weekends. Recently, his pain has started to interfere with his daily activities and hobbies. John decided to visit his doctor to find out what was causing his symptoms.
Symptoms and Diagnosis: During his visit, John reported pain and stiffness in his hands, wrists, and knees, especially in the morning. He also noticed that his joints were swollen and warm to the touch. John's doctor performed a physical examination and ordered blood tests. The results showed elevated levels of rheumatoid factor (RF) and anti-citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPA), which are indicators of rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
Understanding RA: Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease where the immune system mistakenly attacks the synovium, the lining of the membranes that surround the joints. This causes inflammation, leading to joint damage, pain, and swelling. Over time, RA can cause bone erosion and joint deformity.
Treatment and Management: John's doctor explained that while there is no cure for RA, there are treatments that can help manage the symptoms and slow the progression of the disease. John was prescribed nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to help reduce pain and inflammation. He was also started on disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs), which help slow the disease's progression.
In addition to medication John was advised to incorporate regular exercise and physical therapy into his routine to maintain joint function and flexibility. He was also encouraged to adopt a healthy diet to support overall well-being.
Follow-Up: John's doctor scheduled regular follow-up appointments to monitor his condition and adjust his treatment plan as needed. With proper management, John aims to continue his work and enjoy his outdoor activities without significant limitations.
Use this case study to answer the following two questions.
What is the primary cause of rheumatoid arthritis?
Question 1 options:
A)
bacterial infection
B)
autoimmune response
C)
viral infection
D)
genetic mutation
Question 2 (5 points)
Which of the following is NOT a common symptom of RA?
Question 2 options:
A)
joint pain and stiffness
B)
swollen and warm joints
C)
bone erosion and joint deformity
D)
high fever and rash