Rheumatoid Arthritis Diagnostic Criteria

Written by Yang Ya Meng

Rheumatology

Updated on September 17, 2024

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The diagnostic criteria for rheumatoid arthritis include the following aspects: The first is symmetrical joint pain, primarily characterized by tenderness and swelling in the metacarpophalangeal joints, proximal interphalangeal joints, and both wrists. Secondly, it also includes abnormalities in inflammation markers, which comprise erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and C-reactive protein (CRP), along with abnormalities in certain antibodies, mainly rheumatoid factor, CCP antibodies, and AKA antibodies. If the above symptoms are present, and these inflammation markers and antibodies are found to be abnormal upon blood testing, a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis can be made.

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Written by Li Jing

Rheumatology

1min 9sec

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Does rheumatoid arthritis hurt?

Firstly, rheumatoid arthritis belongs to autoimmune diseases and is a chronic condition. The main symptoms include symmetric pain in multiple joints across the body, accompanied by morning stiffness, which is why joint pain occurs and is the most common symptom. The onset is slow for most people, but some experience an acute onset, with joint mobility issues appearing within a few weeks or days. Therefore, this disease cannot be cured; it can only be managed with medications to control symptoms, delay the deformity of joints, reduce disability rates, and enhance the quality of life, which are the objectives of comprehensive treatment. It is important to avoid exposure to cold and fatigue in daily life, avoid contact with cold water, keep warm, also avoid raw and cold foods, spicy and irritating foods, and eat more light, easy-to-digest, and high-protein foods to boost the immune system.

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Written by Chen Hui

Orthopedic Surgery

33sec

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Rheumatoid arthritis is what's going on?

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic systemic disease of unknown etiology characterized primarily by inflammatory synovitis. Its main features are aggressive joint inflammation that symmetrically affects multiple small joints of the hands and feet. It often accompanies involvement of extra-articular organs and a positive rheumatoid factor in serum. It can ultimately lead to joint deformity and loss of function. The onset of the disease may be related to genetic, infectious, and hormonal factors.

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Written by Li Jie

Orthopedics

1min 49sec

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How to treat rheumatoid arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis-induced joint pain has several distinct characteristics: The first is that it initially affects the small joints of the limbs, typically involving the hands, feet, wrists, and ankles, before spreading to larger joints. It rarely starts in the large joints first. Secondly, the onset is generally symmetrical, meaning it seldom affects just a single limb or joint. Typically, if the disease manifests, it affects both limbs simultaneously. Another characteristic is significant morning stiffness, meaning a feeling of stiffness upon waking up in the morning. Generally, by combining auxiliary tests such as blood tests and imaging, a clear diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis can be made. Once diagnosed, it is advised that patients seek treatment at a reputable hospital in the rheumatology and immunology department or orthopedics, targeting specific treatments and avoiding unlicensed practitioners. Common rheumatoid arthritis treatment plans start with medications to alleviate symptoms, using immunosuppressants. In severe cases, a small, short-term dose of steroids may be used. Additionally, symptomatic treatment may include topical applications of ointments to improve blood circulation, reduce swelling, and alleviate pain. Patients can also take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs orally to relieve symptoms. Furthermore, traditional Chinese medicine is also a very effective method, and patients can take specific herbal medicines as symptomatic treatment for rheumatic joint pain, which are also very effective. (Please follow a professional physician's guidance when using medications and do not medicate blindly.)

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Written by Li Jing

Rheumatology

48sec

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What medicine is used for rheumatoid arthritis?

First, rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease and a chronic condition that cannot be cured. The primary goal of treatment is to alleviate symptoms, delay complications, improve quality of life, and reduce disability through conventional drug therapies. Treatment methods include general treatment and medication. General treatment consists of functional exercise and lifestyle considerations, such as avoiding cold water and raw, cold foods, and emphasizing the importance of exercise. Additionally, the first-line drug treatments include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), with traditional DMARDs being the current preferred and anchor treatment option.

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Written by Li Jing

Rheumatology

1min 10sec

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Does rheumatoid arthritis cause fever?

Rheumatoid arthritis is categorized as an autoimmune disease, primarily characterized by swelling and pain in multiple joints, particularly in the wrists or ankles. It also causes morning stiffness, and may be accompanied by fatigue, low fever, muscle soreness, and even weight loss. The onset of the disease is generally gradual for most people, and symptoms can vary significantly from one individual to another. A minority of patients may experience a rapid onset of symptoms, developing joint problems within days or weeks. Therefore, during the acute phase of rheumatoid arthritis, patients may experience a mild or moderate fever. However, it is important to differentiate whether this fever is due to an infection or the activity of the disease itself. This can be determined through regular blood tests, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C-reactive protein, and related symptoms.